
Certosa di Pontignano
A medieval monastery turned elegant hotel in Tuscany, offering historic charm, serene gardens, and breathtaking views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Blooming gardens, fewer crowds

Certosa di Pontignano
Best Time
Blooming gardens, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A medieval monastery turned elegant hotel in Tuscany, offering historic charm, serene gardens, and breathtaking views.
"Come here if you want Tuscan Beauty, Charm, and romantic settings. "

🚶♀️ Wander and Connect
Take your time to explore the grounds, hold hands, and soak in the romantic Tuscan atmosphere.
🍽️ Savor the Flavors
The restaurant offers a fine selection, with a chef who knows how to prepare a great steak and local wines.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient Chapel
Within the monastery complex
Step back in time in this historic chapel, a must-see for its spiritual ambiance and architectural beauty.

Italian Gardens
Surrounding the monastery
Wander through beautifully maintained Italian gardens, perfect for a romantic stroll amidst Tuscan scenery.

Cloisters
Main cloister
Explore the serene cloisters, imagining centuries of monastic life. A truly evocative experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Historic Charm
Book Ahead for Events & Stays
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Wander and Connect
Take your time to explore the grounds, hold hands, and soak in the romantic Tuscan atmosphere.
🍽️ Savor the Flavors
The restaurant offers a fine selection, with a chef who knows how to prepare a great steak and local wines.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The historic architecture and stunning Tuscan landscape provide endless photo opportunities.
🚗 Easy Access from Siena
It's only about a 10-minute drive from Siena, making it a convenient escape.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Wander and Connect
Take your time to explore the grounds, hold hands, and soak in the romantic Tuscan atmosphere.
🍽️ Savor the Flavors
The restaurant offers a fine selection, with a chef who knows how to prepare a great steak and local wines.
📸 Capture the Beauty
The historic architecture and stunning Tuscan landscape provide endless photo opportunities.
🚗 Easy Access from Siena
It's only about a 10-minute drive from Siena, making it a convenient escape.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Certosa di Pontignano for its unique historic charm, serene Tuscan setting, and attentive staff. The beautiful gardens and ancient architecture create a magical atmosphere, making it ideal for romantic stays and events. While not a modern luxury hotel, its authenticity and peaceful ambiance are highly valued.
"This is a very interesting facility. It creates a very unique experience for your romantic stay. Don't come here if you like luxury hotels and flat sidewalks. Come here if you want Tuscan Beauty, Charm, and romantic settings. The Restaurant has a fine selection, and the Chef knows how to prepare a steak!! Wine is apparently a thing in an 800 year old Monastery. Please check out the Chapel!! Take some time, walk around holding hands. Loved it here!"
Gordon Jarvis
"Our stay at La Certosa di Pontignano was a truly memorable experience. The historic charm of the property combined with the serene Tuscan landscape creates a magical and peaceful atmosphere that’s hard to match. The rooms were comfortable, the grounds beautifully maintained, and the staff welcoming and attentive. While we did encounter a small issue during our stay, it was addressed promptly and resolved to our complete satisfaction, which we greatly appreciated. The overall experience far outweighed this minor hiccup. The historical significance of the location adds a special depth to the visit—walking through centuries-old cloisters and gardens while enjoying the beauty of Tuscany is something we won’t forget. We would gladly return and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a unique and tranquil retreat."
Francisco Trevino
"A beautiful former monastery with Italian gardens, apiary, surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Incredible views from the pristine rooms, which are spacious and comfortable. We had to get 2 rooms to accommodate the 6 of us, but they also have apartments available. Includes an incredible breakfast. I would come back in a heartbeat."
Cassandra Mino
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Certosa di Pontignano is conveniently located just about a 10-minute drive from Siena. You can easily reach it by car or taxi. If you're driving, follow signs towards Castelnuovo Berardenga and look for the Certosa di Pontignano signs. Parking is generally available on-site.
While direct public transport to the Certosa might be limited, you can take a bus from Siena towards Castelnuovo Berardenga and then potentially arrange a short taxi ride for the final stretch. It's best to check local bus schedules in advance.
For wedding guests, arranging group transportation or taxis is often the most convenient option, especially if staying in Siena or nearby towns. Many wedding planners also assist with guest transport.
Yes, Certosa di Pontignano can be visited as a day trip, especially if you are staying in the Siena area. You can explore the gardens, cloisters, and chapel, and enjoy a meal at the restaurant.
Yes, ample parking is typically available for guests and visitors at Certosa di Pontignano, making it easy to access by car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the Certosa di Pontignano is a hotel and conference center, access to certain areas like the gardens and chapel may be available for visitors, especially if you plan to dine at the restaurant. It's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for the most current information on visitor access and any potential entry fees.
As a working hotel and event venue, there aren't strict 'opening hours' for general visitors in the same way as a museum. However, the grounds and common areas are generally accessible during daylight hours. For specific access to the chapel or to ensure availability for dining, it's best to inquire directly.
Yes, the chapel is a significant highlight and is often accessible to guests and visitors. Its historical and spiritual ambiance makes it a must-see.
Typically, if you are a guest at the hotel or dining at the restaurant, access to the gardens is included. For day visitors, it's best to confirm if a separate fee applies, though often a reservation for dining suffices.
Given its popularity for events and its unique appeal, booking rooms well in advance, especially during peak season or around major events like 'Certosa in Jazz', is highly recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a unique experience steeped in history and Tuscan charm. It's a former monastery offering a romantic and serene retreat, not a typical luxury hotel. Think beautiful gardens, cloisters, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Reviews indicate that the rooms are spacious, comfortable, and offer incredible views. While historic, they are well-maintained and equipped with necessary amenities.
Beyond enjoying the historic ambiance, you can explore the Italian gardens, visit the chapel, and dine at the restaurant. They also host events like 'Certosa in Jazz' and are a popular wedding venue.
Absolutely! Certosa di Pontignano is a highly sought-after venue for weddings and private events, offering a magical setting with beautiful gardens and historic architecture.
The atmosphere is described as magical, serene, and tranquil, with a strong sense of historical significance. It's perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Certosa di Pontignano features a restaurant, often referred to as 'Il Chiostro di Pontignano', offering a fine selection of dishes and local wines. The chef is noted for preparing excellent steaks.
The restaurant focuses on Tuscan cuisine, with an emphasis on local ingredients and traditional preparations. Expect dishes that complement the wine culture of the Chianti region.
Yes, an incredible breakfast is typically included with stays at Certosa di Pontignano, offering a great start to your day.
Certosa di Pontignano offers spaces for private lunches and dinners, making it ideal for special occasions and events.
While specific menus can vary, Tuscan cuisine often incorporates fresh vegetables. It's always best to inform the restaurant staff of any dietary requirements in advance to ensure they can accommodate you.
📸 📸 Photography
The Italian gardens, the historic cloisters, the chapel, and the surrounding Tuscan landscape offer stunning backdrops. The architecture of the monastery itself is also very photogenic.
Photography rules can vary. While generally encouraged to capture the beauty, it's respectful to inquire about specific restrictions inside the chapel, especially during services or events.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – offer beautiful, soft light that enhances the Tuscan scenery and the monastery's architecture.
If you are dining at the restaurant or have a specific reason to visit, you can usually take photos of the public areas. However, for extensive photoshoots, it's best to contact the venue management beforehand.
Drone usage is often restricted in historic sites and private properties due to privacy and safety concerns. It's essential to check the venue's policy and local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents might appreciate the included breakfast to start the day, and the opportunity to introduce children to historical sites in a relaxed setting. The restaurant can accommodate family meals, and the overall peaceful atmosphere makes it a good choice for a tranquil family retreat in Tuscany.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Many couples choose Certosa di Pontignano for weddings and honeymoons, drawn by its breathtaking beauty and timeless elegance. The rooms offer comfort and stunning views, perfect for a memorable romantic stay. The chapel also provides a unique setting for intimate ceremonies or moments of reflection.
🥂 Event Planners & Wedding Venues
Planners can leverage the venue's unique character to create bespoke events, from elegant wedding receptions to corporate retreats. The ability to host multiple events, such as welcome dinners and receptions, makes it a versatile choice for multi-day celebrations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: From Monastery to Modern Venue
Walking through its ancient corridors and cloisters, one can almost feel the echoes of monastic life. The Italian gardens surrounding the complex add to its serene beauty, providing a tranquil escape. This historical depth is a major draw for visitors seeking an authentic Tuscan experience beyond typical tourist spots.
The venue is also a popular choice for weddings and events, leveraging its breathtaking scenery and historic ambiance to create unforgettable celebrations. This dual role as a historical site and a vibrant event space makes Certosa di Pontignano a truly multifaceted destination.
Experiencing the Tuscan Landscape
The Italian gardens are a highlight, meticulously maintained and offering a perfect setting for leisurely strolls and romantic moments. Visitors often rave about the serene atmosphere and the beauty of the grounds, which are a testament to classic Italian garden design.
From the rooms and common areas, guests are treated to incredible views of the surrounding countryside, making every moment spent at Certosa di Pontignano a visual delight. This connection to the natural beauty of Tuscany is a key element of its charm and appeal.
Culinary Delights and Local Wines
Particular praise is given to the chef's ability to prepare a perfect steak, a testament to the quality of local produce. The wine selection is, of course, exceptional, drawing from the renowned Chianti Classico region that surrounds the Certosa.
Beyond the main dining, the venue also offers spaces for private lunches and dinners, making it an ideal spot for celebrations or intimate gatherings. The inclusion of an incredible breakfast further enhances the guest experience, providing a delightful start to days spent exploring the Tuscan countryside.


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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit