Serra San Bruno Certosa Monastery
Step back in time at the historic Certosa di Serra San Bruno, a living monastery offering a unique glimpse into Carthusian life and serene natural bea...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather for trails
Serra San Bruno Certosa Monastery
Best Time
Pleasant weather for trails
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time at the historic Certosa di Serra San Bruno, a living monastery offering a unique glimpse into Carthusian life and serene natural beauty.
"It’s a unique experience and also allows you to enter the 'fortress like' monastery."
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for the monks. :dress:
Embrace the Quiet
This is a place of contemplation. Keep noise levels low. :speaker:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Monastery Museum
Main Monastery Building
Explore the history and daily life of the Carthusian monks in this well-preserved museum.
Il Camino di San Bruno
Surrounding Area
Walk the scenic trails that offer beautiful views and a sense of tranquility.
Local Artisan Shops
Near Monastery Entrance
Discover unique Italian foods and souvenirs to take a piece of Calabria home.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visit: Dress Code & Quietude
Limited Access & Self-Guided Exploration
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for the monks. :dress:
Embrace the Quiet
This is a place of contemplation. Keep noise levels low. :speaker:
Explore the Trails
Don't miss the beautiful nature walks around the monastery. :hiking_boot:
Budget-Friendly Entry
The museum ticket is very affordable, offering great value. :euro:
Tips
from all over the internet
Modest Attire Required
Cover shoulders and knees to show respect for the monks. :dress:
Embrace the Quiet
This is a place of contemplation. Keep noise levels low. :speaker:
Explore the Trails
Don't miss the beautiful nature walks around the monastery. :hiking_boot:
Budget-Friendly Entry
The museum ticket is very affordable, offering great value. :euro:
Picnic Spots Available
Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst the serene surroundings. :sandwich:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Certosa di Serra San Bruno for its unique historical insight and serene atmosphere, describing it as a 'time-traveling' experience. The low cost of entry and the beautiful surrounding nature trails are frequently highlighted as major positives. Some visitors note the limited access to the monastery itself, but generally find the accessible museum and natural surroundings to be very worthwhile.
"I visited Certosa di Serra San Bruno while I was on holiday in Italy. My friend took me here, and it is such a beautiful place! We walked on the Il Camino di San Bruno, visited the church and walked along the beautiful trails. There were many places to eat or to have a picnic. There were also shops to buy unique Italian foods to bring home and souvenirs. I highly recommend a visit to this place."
Mary Ehr
"It’s one of my favorite destination in Calabria. Although visitors can only access to a small corner of the monastery as a museum, it is nevertheless very interesting, well kept, and the ticket costs only 2 euro. The surrounding area is quiet and beautiful. If you drive here from one of the coastal towns, the change of climate and landscape is significant. It’s almost like entering another country."
Minh Long
"A peaceful place to stop by; showcase the origin of the monastery, how the monks live their life's today. To me, the Monastery has adapted itself to allow a minimal amount of tourism without disturbing the "hermit" status, as part of the integration into the 21st century capitalistic world."
Leong Kiah PUA
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monastery is best reached by car, offering a scenic drive from coastal towns. Public transport options are limited, so check bus schedules in advance if not driving. The journey itself provides a dramatic change in landscape and climate.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the monastery entrance, though it can get busy during peak times.
The drive is often described as a significant change of scenery, moving from coastal views to a more mountainous and cooler climate, almost like entering another country.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the museum portion of the monastery is very affordable, often costing around 2 euros, making it a great value visit.
No, visitors can only access a small corner of the monastery which is set up as a museum. The rest of the monastery remains private for the monks.
Opening hours can vary, and it's advisable to check the official website or local tourist information for the most up-to-date times before your visit.
For general museum entry, advance booking is usually not required, but it's always a good idea to check if any special events or group visits might affect availability.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The museum showcases the history of the monastery, how the monks live their lives, and offers a glimpse into their unique 'hermit' status adapted for the modern world.
Typically, the visit is self-guided through the accessible museum areas. The experience is designed to give you a sense of time travel and monastic life.
This refers to the walking trails around the monastery, offering beautiful views and a peaceful environment for reflection and exploration.
Photography rules can vary within the museum; it's best to check signage or ask staff. The surrounding natural areas offer great photo opportunities.
Direct interaction with the monks is generally not permitted as they maintain a secluded life. The museum provides insight into their way of life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are places to eat and options for picnics available in the vicinity of the monastery.
Shops near the monastery often sell unique Italian foods and souvenirs, allowing you to take a taste of Calabria home.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Monastic Life
This adaptation allows for a minimal amount of tourism without disturbing the monks' 'hermit' status, showcasing a careful integration into the modern world. The surrounding area is noted for its quiet beauty, and the change in climate and landscape from the coast is significant, making the journey itself part of the experience.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities
Parking is available, but it's wise to arrive earlier on busier days. The drive to Serra San Bruno is often highlighted as a scenic transition, so factor in time to enjoy the journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit