Sight
Certaldo
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Perched on a hill overlooking the Elsa Valley, Certaldo is a quintessential Tuscan medieval village. Its upper town, Certaldo Alto, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, brick towers, and ancient palazzos. The town is famously the birthplace of Giovanni Boccaccio, author of the Decameron, and his house is now a museum. Visitors can explore the Palazzo Pretorio, a former governor's palace with a striking façade of ceramic coats of arms, and enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. The atmosphere is tranquil and authentic, far less crowded than nearby San Gimignano. Local trattorias serve traditional dishes like pici pasta and vernaccia wine. Certaldo also hosts a lively medieval festival in July, with jousting and period costumes.
Don't miss
- Visit the Casa Boccaccio museum, the writer's birthplace and home.
- Admire the Palazzo Pretorio's façade adorned with ceramic coats of arms.
- Stroll along Via Boccaccio, the main street lined with medieval buildings.
- Take in panoramic views from the town's ramparts and piazzas.
- Explore the Church of Santi Jacopo e Filippo, with frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli.
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Certaldo
You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.
Cheapest way inWine tasting in San Gimignano4.6★ · 43 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$35 per personSee dates →
Best full dayTuscany Day Trip from Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and Lunch at a Winery4.9★ · 23,235 travelers~12 hoursFree cancellationFrom$110 per personSee dates →
Private & flexiblePrivate Tour in San Gimignano4.9★ · 56 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$163 per personSee dates →More attractions in San Gimignano