Things To Do
in Certaldo

Certaldo is a charming hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, known for its rich artistic heritage and medieval architecture. It is the birthplace of the renowned poet Giovanni Boccaccio and offers a glimpse into the historical past of the region. The town is characterized by its narrow cobblestone streets, stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside, and vibrant local culture.

With its quaint ambiance and picturesque settings, Certaldo attracts visitors seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Certaldo's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Palazzo Pretorio, where you can admire the impressive façade and explore the museum inside.

afternoon
:

Head to the Certaldo Alto, the old town, to wander through its medieval streets and visit the Church of Saint Jacob.

evening
:

End your day with a traditional Tuscan dinner at a local trattoria, savoring regional dishes and local wines.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a leisurely hike in the surrounding hills to enjoy the stunning views and natural beauty of the Chianti landscape.

afternoon
:

Visit a local vineyard for a wine tasting experience, learning about the wine-making process in Tuscany.

evening
:

Stroll through the town's charming streets, stopping for gelato at a local shop before enjoying the sunset from a scenic viewpoint.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍝Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of wine$5
🚕Taxi ride (within town)$10
🏨Night in a hotel$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Stunning views and beautiful landscapes.
  • Delicious traditional Tuscan cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season.
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours.
  • "Buongiorno" - Good morning
  • "Grazie" - Thank you
  • "Per favore" - Please
  • "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...?
  • "Mi scusi" - Excuse me

Places to Visit in Certaldo

Visit one of these nice places.

Certaldo Alto

The old town area provides stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and beautiful medieval architecture.

Palazzo Pretorio

The historical palace offers an impressive backdrop for photographs with its intricate façade and charming courtyard.

The Hills of Chianti

The surrounding hills are dotted with vineyards and olive groves, making for picturesque landscape shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Certaldo

Certaldo offers a delightful culinary experience showcasing traditional Tuscan flavors and local ingredients. Visitors can expect to taste hearty dishes, fresh produce, and fine wines that reflect the region's agricultural richness.

Certaldo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pici Cacio e Pepe

Handmade pasta served with a simple yet delicious sauce made from cheese and pepper.

Must-Try!

Ribollita

A hearty Tuscan soup made with vegetables, beans, and stale bread, perfect for chilly evenings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Certaldo Market

Held weekly, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Certaldo experiences a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Summer temperatures often reach the mid-30s °C (mid-90s °F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0 °C (32 °F) at night. Rainfall is more common in spring and autumn, with September and October being particularly wet. The best times to visit are in spring and autumn when the weather is mild and the countryside is at its most beautiful.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

It is customary to greet people with 'Buongiorno' (Good morning) or 'Buonasera' (Good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to sit and remember to say 'Buon Appetito' before starting your meal.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially in churches; casual but neat attire is generally acceptable in most places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Certaldo is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, like any tourist destination, it is wise to stay aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure. Be cautious in crowded areas and avoid poorly lit streets at night.

Tipping in Certaldo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount (5-10%) is common.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.

Summer

Summer can be hot, with temperatures rising, but it’s also the peak tourist season with numerous festivals and events.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colors, ideal for wine harvest tours and scenic hikes.

Winter

Winter is quiet, with fewer tourists; the town takes on a peaceful charm, and it’s a great time for cozy indoor dining.

Nightlife Guide

Certaldo at Night

Certaldo’s nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. The town features a few bars and cafes where locals gather for drinks, particularly in the summer months. While there are no nightclubs, visitors can enjoy live music events and cultural festivals that often take place in the main squares, creating a lively atmosphere.

Hiking in Certaldo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentiero del Vignaiolo

A scenic trail that winds through vineyards and olive groves, offering stunning views of the Chianti hills.

Trail to Castello di Oliveto

This trail leads to the historic Oliveto Castle, providing a glimpse into the region's medieval past and beautiful landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Certaldo by plane.

Florence Airport (Peretola)

Located about 40 km from Certaldo, Florence Airport is the closest major airport, offering domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Certaldo is highly walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other. The cobblestone streets are pedestrian-friendly, and the compact layout makes it easy to explore on foot. However, be prepared for some steep inclines in the old town area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The population consists mainly of Tuscan families, many of whom have lived in the area for generations, contributing to the town's rich cultural fabric.

Tourists

Certaldo attracts a mix of tourists, including history enthusiasts, food lovers, and wine connoisseurs, particularly during the summer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Certaldo, with local teams competing in regional leagues and community events.

Cycling

With its scenic routes, cycling is a favored activity among locals and tourists alike, especially during the warmer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Certaldo is generally light due to its small size. The town is easily navigable by foot, and parking is available on the outskirts. Public transportation options include buses that connect Certaldo with surrounding towns, making it easy to explore the wider region without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Certaldo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff for specific dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Certaldo are accessible, with a local pharmacy and a small clinic available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, the nearest hospital is located in the nearby town of Empoli, approximately 20 minutes away by car. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Discover Italy

Read more in our Italy 2025 Travel Guide.

Italy Travel Guide