Things To Do
in Certaldo
Certaldo is a medieval hill town in Tuscany perched above the Elsa Valley, offering panoramic views and well-preserved stone lanes. The upper quarter, Certaldo Alto, is reached by a funicular or a steep stair climb and houses towers, the Palazzo Pretorio, and Boccaccio's Birthplace within a compact, atmospheric setting. The town blends Renaissance architecture with lively street life, including markets, family-run trattorie, and artisan shops.
It makes a tranquil base for exploring nearby Florence, Siena, and the Chianti countryside while soaking in authentic Tuscan history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets of Certaldo, soaking in the medieval architecture and vibrant flowers that adorn the ancient buildings. Visit the Casa di Boccaccio, the legendary poet's home, to delve into his life and works. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee at a charming local café.
Post lunch, take a funicular ride up to Certaldo Alto, the hilltop part of the town, where breathtaking views await. Explore the historic sites, including the Palazzo Pretorio and its stunning frescoes, immersing yourself in the rich history of this delightful town. Spend some time browsing unique artisan shops for handcrafted souvenirs.
As the sun sets, indulge in a traditional Tuscan dinner at a local trattoria, savoring homemade pasta and fine wines. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk through the peaceful streets, experiencing the enchanting ambiance of Certaldo at night. Make sure to find a quiet spot to gaze at the stars, perhaps with a gelato in hand.
Embark on a short trip to the stunning medieval town of San Gimignano, famous for its tall towers and UNESCO World Heritage status. Begin your exploration at the Piazza della Cisterna, admiring its picturesque square and the local shops. A visit to the Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta is essential to marvel at its impressive frescoes.
After lunch at a local osteria, immerse yourself in the town's art scene by visiting the Museo d’Arte Sacra and the San Gimignano 1300 museum. Spend time wandering through the narrow streets, enjoying the local shops and, of course, the world-renowned gelato. Capture the stunning views of the Tuscan countryside from one of the many vantage points.
Return to Certaldo for dinner, reflecting on your day surrounded by art and history. Choose a cozy restaurant where you can sample local wines and flavors, completing your Tuscan experience. Spend a relaxing evening at your accommodation, perhaps with a glass of vin santo and cantucci.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨1-night hotel | $100-180 |
| 🚗Local transportation day pass | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Well-preserved medieval charm with panoramic views
- Accessible base for exploring Tuscany
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller range of services in off-peak seasons
- "Buongiorno" - Good morning
- "Per favore" - Please
- "Dove si trova...?" - Where is...
- "Parla inglese?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Certaldo
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic terraces and stone stairways with sweeping views over the Elsa Valley, ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Historic stone façade, chapel and tower glimpses—great for architectural detail and atmospheric portraits.
Cobblestone streets, wrought iron balconies, and towers create quintessential Tuscan street photography moments.
Food in Certaldo
Certaldo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, juicy T-bone steak typically served medium-rare with rosemary and a drizzle of olive oil; a Tuscan staple often enjoyed with crusty bread and salads.
Must-Try!
A hearty tomato and bread soup finished with basil and olive oil; comforting and bright, especially in spring and autumn.
Toasted bread topped with a rich chicken liver pâté, a common starter in Tuscan trattorie.
Seasonal grape focaccia, typically enjoyed in autumn when vineyards are heavy with fruit.
A rustic bean and vegetable soup thickened with bread; a traditional, heartwarming dish in cooler weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, bread, and local specialties; a great place to sample everyday Tuscan foods.
Casual bites such as grilled sandwiches, schiacciata (flatbread), and local pastries near piazzas and the lower town.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Buongiorno or Salve; dress a touch modestly when visiting churches; wine and food culture values relaxed, friendly interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Certaldo
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and quieter streets; ideal for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Warm to hot days; carry sun protection, stay hydrated, and enjoy evening strolls to escape peak heat.
Harvest season with grape and olive trails; vineyards turn golden and there are seasonal foods like schiacciata all’uva.
Cool and quiet with occasional rain; cozy trattorias and low-key nightlife offer a different, intimate experience.
Certaldo at Night
Hiking in Certaldo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Historic pilgrim route through vineyards and countryside near Certaldo Alto.
Scenic riverside path with views of medieval towers and patchwork fields.
Airports
How to reach Certaldo by plane.
About 30-60 minutes by car from Certaldo; broad domestic and international connections.
Approximately 1.5 hours by car or train; many international flights and good rail links.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly families and retirees, with a growing mix of visitors year-round.
Primarily visitors from Italy and Europe drawn to Tuscan history and scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local amateur clubs and school teams.
Widely enjoyed in the rolling Tuscan countryside; bike-friendly routes and scenic tours.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Certaldo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Tuscan dishes can be adapted; look for ribollita, pappa al pomodoro, pici al aglio e olio, and grilled vegetables; vegetarian options are commonly available in trattorie.