If you want an easy and beautiful day trip outside Florence, then Certaldo is one of Tuscany’s best hidden gems. It’s only about 50 minutes by train, and once you arrive you’ll find a perfectly preserved medieval hill town, incredible Tuscan views, and some seriously good local food. It’s also the birthplace of Giovanni Boccaccio, author of the Decameron. Certaldo Alto is one of the most authentic medieval towns in Tuscany and still keeps its red-brick medieval character almost unchanged. (Visit Tuscany)
Morning: Train from Florence to Certaldo
Take the regional train from Santa Maria Novella station to Certaldo.
Once you arrive, go straight to the famous hill lift:
Ride the medieval cable railway
Funicolare di Certaldo
Funicolare di Certaldo Web Address: Piazza Boccaccio, 37, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy Phone: +39800142424
This little funicular takes you directly to Certaldo Alto and saves your legs for the rest of the day.
10:30 AM – Explore Certaldo Alto One Day in Certaldo
The old town is compact, so it’s perfect for a slow walk.
Must-see spots
1. Medieval Gates and Walls
Walk through Porta Alberti and the ancient defensive walls.
2. The Main Street – Via Boccaccio
This is the heart of the old town, lined with brick palaces and quiet corners.
3. Boccaccio’s House
Casa di Boccaccio – Ente Giovanni Boccaccio
Casa di Boccaccio – Ente Giovanni Boccaccio Web Address: Via Giovanni Boccaccio, 18, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy Phone: +390571661265
A small but fascinating stop if you like literature and history.
4. Palazzo Pretorio
The medieval political center of Certaldo, famous for its decorated coats of arms.
5. Sunset viewpoints over Val d’Elsa
For the best panoramic photos, head toward the outer walls.
Certaldo’s medieval center is entered through ancient gates and most landmarks are concentrated along Via Boccaccio. (Visit Tuscany)
1:00 PM – Lunch: Eat Real Tuscan Food One Day in Certaldo
Here are the best places.
Best authentic choice
Osteria da Chichibio
Osteria da Chichibio Web Address: Via Giovanni Boccaccio, 4, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy Phone: +390571652504
Order:
- Ribollita
- Pici al cinghiale
- Peposo
- Cantucci with Vin Santo
This is classic Tuscan comfort food in the heart of Certaldo Alto.
For traditional atmosphere
Osteria La Saletta
Osteria La Saletta Web Address: Via Roma, 4, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy Phone: +390571668188
Great for handmade pasta and local meats.
For something more refined
Ristorante L’Antica Fonte
Ristorante L’Antica Fonte Web Address: Via Valdracca, 25, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy Phone: +393348648259
Excellent if you want a longer relaxed lunch.
What local food to try in Certaldo
Certaldo is famous for its Cipolla di Certaldo, the sweet red onion that even has protected status.
Look for dishes like:
- Onion flan
- Onion marmalade with pecorino
- Crostini with Certaldo onion
- Pappa al pomodoro
- Wild boar ragù
This onion is one of the town’s culinary symbols. (Tuscany Now & More)
3:30 PM – Afternoon Walk One Day in Certaldo
After lunch, take a relaxing stroll.
If you want countryside views:
Canonica hill Park
Canonica hill Park Address: Via della Canonica, 33, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy
or
Parco di Canonica
Parco di Canonica Address: S.da Vicinale Torrione, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy
Perfect for panoramic walks through classic Tuscan scenery.
5:00 PM – Aperitivo
Before heading back, grab a glass of Chianti in Certaldo Alto.
A good option:
Ristorante Il Castello
Ristorante Il Castello Web Address: Via della Rena, 6, 50052 Certaldo FI, Italy Phone: +3905711900261
Order:
- Chianti Classico
- Local salumi board
- Pecorino with onion jam
Return to Florence
Take the funicular back down and catch an evening train.
You’ll be back in Florence by around 8 PM, after a perfect medieval Tuscan escape.
Why Certaldo is worth it
If San Gimignano feels too crowded and Siena too big for a day trip, Certaldo is the sweet spot:
medieval, authentic, walkable, delicious, and still surprisingly underrated.
Even travelers on Tuscany forums often mention it as one of the most charming quieter alternatives for a day trip from Florence. (Reddit)
