Certaldo, Italy: A Hidden Gem

The hill town of Certaldo is the ideal destination for a day trip away from the hustle and bustle of the metropolis. This tiny Tuscan village will make you feel like the protagonist of an adventure-seeking fairy tale with its charming corners and delightful alleyways!

From breathtaking scenery to mouthwatering cuisine, don't miss out on anything Certaldo has to offer.

Where is Certaldo?

One hour from Florence, in the Chianti area of Tuscany, Certaldo is a charming village that can be accessed by vehicle or train. The two halves of the village are referred to as Certaldo Alto and Certaldo Basso, respectively.

The medieval portion of the town, Certaldo Alto, is located on a hilltop and is accessible via funicular.

The ticket costs only 1.50 Euros. 

It's difficult not to fall in love with Certaldo Alto the moment you "fly" there! The surroundings in Tuscany are breathtaking.

The Palazzo Pretorio and the house of Boccaccio

The Palazzo Pretorio, Certaldo's best-known monument, has been well preserved over the years. Every family that has ruled Certaldo has had the coats of arms made in their time that still adorn this palace today, and it is a thrill to see them all together with their vibrant symbolism.

The name of Giovanni Boccaccio will probably be familiar to those familiar with Italian literature. You can visit the birthplace of the famous Italian author in Certaldo, which is now a museum! During your visit, do not miss the opportunity to admire some significant editions of the Decameron.

Food and tasting

After spending the morning sightseeing, you deserve a break. Therefore, treat yourself to bread accompanied by fresh cheeses, truffles and red onions for lunch! The local wine is also a must-try product.

Certaldo is a beautiful town to visit at any time of the year, but in summer it really comes alive, especially during the Mercantia Festival. Hundreds or even thousands of people travel here to participate in local festivals, performances, art exhibitions, food tastings and more. 

If you have more than one day to visit the region, you should definitely discover this hidden gem of Tuscany!