Val di Elsa Travel Guide

This Val di Elsa travel guide will help you discover the best attractions, food, accommodations, and activities in Tuscany.


Introduction to Val di Elsa

Located in the picturesque Siena province of Tuscany, Val di Elsa is a charming region known for its natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. The region is situated on the cusp of the Val d’Elsa and Val di Pesa valleys, surrounded by rolling hills covered in terraced vineyards, olive groves, and fields of sunflowers.

The town of Val di Elsa is known for its medieval walls, narrow winding streets, and stunning architecture. The town has been inhabited since the Etruscan period, with evidence of a Roman presence in the area as well. Nowadays, the town offers a great range of attractions including museums, restaurants, outdoor activities, and events that take place throughout the year.

List of Places to Visit in Val di Elsa

Whether you’re interested in exploring its rich history, natural beauty, or vibrant culture, Val di Elsa has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the must-visit attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museo Civico e Diocesano d’Arte Sacra - a museum that features an amazing collection of religious art and artifacts, including works from the Etruscan era to the Baroque period.
  • Piazza della Cisterna - a charming square bounded by medieval towers and the perfect starting point to explore Val di Elsa’s historic district.
  • Palazzo dei Priori - a former palace that now hosts a museum exhibiting medieval civic art.
  • Basilica della Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta - a Romanesque-gothic church with a tall bell tower beside the beautiful Piazza Duomo.
  • Castello di Monteriggioni - a well-preserved fortress town that was built in the 13th century.

Natural Attractions of Val di Elsa: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Val d’Elsa countryside - a stunning area that includes small towns, rolling hills, and scenic roads that link Val di Elsa to the heart of Tuscany.
  • Bosco della Ragnaia - a beautiful park designed by American artist Sheppard Craige with a sprawling garden and sculptures.
  • San Gimignano - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is well known for its medieval towers, stunning views, and great wines.
  • Trekking trails around San Gimignano - several paths with breathtaking views of the Tuscan architecture, rural countryside, and ancient history.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Val di Elsa

Val di Elsa offers excellent opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the recommended routes:

  • Ride from Colle di Val d’Elsa to Chianti - an easy 35-kilometer route that takes you through Val di Elsa’s top vineyard regions, and to the famous Chianti Classico wine region.
  • The Via Francigena trail - a historic pilgrimage route connecting Canterbury, UK with Rome, famous for its medieval pilgrim sites and scenic vistas.
  • Montagnola Senese trail - a beautiful trek that leads through the serene landscapes and historic sites of the Montagnola Senese, a range of hills east of Siena.

Best Things to Do in Val di Elsa: Activities and Tours

Val di Elsa is perfect for those who want to have a diverse holiday. Here are the best things to do in this beautiful region:

  • Soak in a Tuscan wine tour - Val di Elsa is a well-known wine region and home to vineyards producing high-quality wines of various sorts, such as Vernaccia di San Gimignano, Chianti, and Brunello di Montalcino.
  • Learn how to prepare Tuscan cuisine - Tuscan cuisine is world-renowned and for good reason. Experience a cooking class in Val di Elsa and learn the secrets behind its wonderful simplicity.
  • Explore the region on a hot-air balloon ride - Get a bird’s-eye view of the stunning landscape by taking a hot-air balloon tour.
  • Relax in Chianti hot springs - Treat yourself to a day at a Chianti spa for a relaxing day of thermal baths and massages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Val di Elsa

Val di Elsa deserves at least a week of your time. Here is our recommended itinerary that will help you explore the region:

Day Activity
Day 1 Begin exploring Val di Elsa’s Medieval history by visiting its two main villages, Castelnuovo and Mensano.
Day 2 Explore the stunning architecture of Val di Elsa chasing the medieval street in San Gimignano.
Day 3 Take a hike in the Tuscan countryside. Have an outdoor picnic with wine at the end.
Day 4 Great food experiences, like a cooking class at the Villa Sassolini and an olive-oil tasting
Day 5 Visit the Baths of Petriolo and take a relaxing dip In the hot springs.
Day 6 Embark on an unforgettable hot-air balloon ride over the vineyards of Chianti.
Day 7 Take a day trip to the nearby towns of Siena or Florence.

Food and Drink Scene of Val di Elsa

Your visit to Val di Elsa is not complete without trying its local cuisine and wine scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages you can’t miss:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bistecca alla Fiorentina - a thick, juicy, and flavorful T-bone steak grilled to perfection.
  • Pappardelle al cinghiale - a long, wide pasta served with a rich and flavorful wild boar ragu sauce.
  • Ribollita Soup - a hearty soup composed of leftover vegetables, bread and beans. This classic Tuscan dish comes with a variety of different recipes.

Local Beverages

  • Vernaccia di San Gimignano - a white wine made of the Vernaccia grape variety that is native to Tuscany. The wine has a unique and refreshing taste, with a nice minerality to it.
  • Chianti Classico - a well-known red wine from the Chianti wine region that is famous for its rich and bold flavor.
  • Brunello di Montalcino - a high-quality red wine made of the Sangiovese grape variety. It is one of Italy’s finest wines and has a complex and elegant flavor profile.

Where to Stay in Val di Elsa: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Val di Elsa has a wide variety of accommodations where you can enjoy Italian hospitality. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels, here are our recommendations:

  • Villa Sassolini - a luxury spa hotel in Colle di Val d’Elsa, located in a beautifully restored 19th-century villa with a pool and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Palazzo Pacini - a chic B&B located in the charming town of Castellina in Chianti, in the center of the Chianti wine region.
  • Casa Cecchi - a budget-friendly hostel located in the beautiful hill town of San Gimignano, surrounded by vineyards and olive trees, with stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.

What to Buy in Val di Elsa: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Val di Elsa is rich in history and offers various traditional gifts that will be a great memory of your trip. Here are some souvenirs and local products to consider:

  • Olive oil and truffles - Val di Elsa is known for producing some of the best olive oil and truffles in Tuscany. Check the local stores in San Gimignano for high-quality olive oil and truffles to bring home.
  • Ceramic pottery - Due to its high-quality clay, pottery has a long tradition in Val di Elsa. Shop for unique and handcrafted pottery from local artists and ceramic shops.
  • Handmade leather goods - Leather is another local specialty, and you may find many unique pieces in small shops around the town.

Local Culture and Customs of Val di Elsa

The locals here are known for their welcoming nature and proud tradition. Here are some cultural nuances that will help you understand and respect the people:

  • Coffee culture - For the Italians, coffee is an essential component of their daily lives. When ordering coffee, it’s important to know that cappuccino is a breakfast drink and isn’t typically consumed in the afternoon or evenings.
  • Meal time - Italians take their meals very seriously. Lunch is the largest meal of the day and can last up to 3 hours. Dinner usually begins at around 8 pm or later and lasts for a few hours as well.
  • Respect heritage sites - As a historic region, Val di Elsa is home to numerous landmarks that have stood strong for centuries. Be mindful of these and respect the sites and any protocols in place to preserve their beauty.

Best Time to Visit Val di Elsa

The prime time for visiting Val di Elsa is between April and June and September to October due to the cooler climate and fewer crowds. From July until August, the region is crowded with tourists, and the weather is hot and humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Val di Elsa

To ensure a smooth and pleasant trip to Val di Elsa, here are some things to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Greet locals and be friendly.
  • Learn a little bit of Italian to communicate easily with locals.
  • Experience the local cuisine and wine scene.

Don’t:

  • Ignore established protocols for visiting heritage sites.
  • Wear beachwear in the public places.
  • Touch important Renaissance frescoes, woodwork, and decorative elements.

Safety and Health

Visiting Val di Elsa is quite safe, but it is still important to take some precautions for health and safety reasons.

Safety in Val di Elsa

  • Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded places.
  • Avoid shady areas at night and be mindful of unfamiliar surroundings.
  • When driving, be attentive and conscious of the Italian road signs and driving rules.

Health in Val di Elsa

  • Prepare for the heat and sun if visiting during the summer months by carrying water and sunscreen with you.
  • Speak to your doctor to ensure your vaccinations are up to date before traveling.
  • In case of medical emergency, the nearest hospital is in Siena.

Getting to Val di Elsa: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Val di Elsa

The closest airport to Val di Elsa is Florence (FLR) and Pisa (PSA) airport, and both have an extensive range of international and domestic connections.

Bus Stations Near Val di Elsa

The public bus service connects Val di Elsa to the main cities of Tuscany. You can get a bus from Florence or Pisa to Val di Elsa easily.

Other Options

  • Taxis are available from all airports and major train stations.
  • Hiring a car is a convenient way to explore Val di Elsa at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Val di Elsa

Val di Elsa is a compact region, and a great way to see it is by hiring a bicycle. There is also an efficient public transport service connecting the major towns and villages in the region.

Where to Go Next from Val di Elsa: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Val di Elsa is located in the heart of Tuscany and conveniently connected to nearby destinations that are worth exploring:

  • Florence - Take a day trip to the birthplace of the Renaissance.
  • Siena - Immerse yourself in history, art, and culture in one of Tuscany’s most beautiful cities.
  • Pisa - Marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower and visit one of Italy’s oldest universities.
  • Chianti - Go wine tasting at one of the many vineyards in nearby Chianti Classico.

Conclusion

Val di Elsa is a unique region that offers the perfect blend of history, culture, culinary delights, natural landscapes, and outdoor experiences. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to explore Tuscany, enjoy stunning scenery, and have an unforgettable experience. Plan your trip to Val di Elsa for an enriching and memorable holiday!



    Colle di Val d'Elsa
    Radicondoli