Asciano
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Latest update: 29 February 2024
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By Dion Protani
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Historic Asciano is a town in the province of Siena with a population of around 7,000 inhabitants. Situated in the heart of the Crete Senesi region, Asciano is famous for its stunning landscapes characterized by rolling hills, cypress trees, and wheat fields.
The town is also known for its medieval architecture, including the Palazzo Corboli and the Basilica of Sant'Agata. |
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Asciano: the Tuscan postcard
Lying in the heart of the picturesque Crete Senesi region, Asciano is a charming Tuscan town renowned for its beauty and cultural heritage. Wander through the cobbled streets of the historic center, where ancient stone buildings and quaint piazzas exude medieval charm.
Admire the majestic architecture of the Basilica of Sant'Agata, adorned with stunning frescoes and intricate details. Nearby, the rolling hills and vineyards of the Tuscan countryside offer opportunities for scenic walks and wine tasting experiences. Asciano also serves as a gateway to the enchanting landscapes of the Val d'Orcia, with its iconic rolling hills and charming hilltop towns.
Admire the majestic architecture of the Basilica of Sant'Agata, adorned with stunning frescoes and intricate details. Nearby, the rolling hills and vineyards of the Tuscan countryside offer opportunities for scenic walks and wine tasting experiences. Asciano also serves as a gateway to the enchanting landscapes of the Val d'Orcia, with its iconic rolling hills and charming hilltop towns.
Comune di Asciano
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Province: Siena
Region: Tuscany Population: 6,799 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024) Size: 216 km² Elevation: 200 metres Close by: Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, Trequanda Recommended accommodation: Agriturismo Dipinture |
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By car: Siena - 41 mins, Montepulciano - 48 mins, Arezzo - 51 mins,
Fly to: Perugia Airport (90 km), Florence Airport (107 km) |
What are the best things to do in Asciano and the local area?
- Asciano Old Town: Explore the charming medieval old town of Asciano, characterized by its well-preserved architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic buildings. Visitors can wander through the historic center, admire landmarks such as the Church of Sant'Agata and the Palazzo Corboli, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere of this traditional Tuscan village.
- Museo d'Arte Sacra: Visit the Museo d'Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art), housed in the 14th-century Church of San Francesco. Visitors can admire a collection of religious artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and liturgical objects, showcasing the artistic heritage of Asciano and the surrounding area.
- Crete Senesi: Explore the breathtaking landscape of the Crete Senesi, a unique region known for its rolling hills, winding roads, and distinctive clay soil. Visitors can drive or cycle through the countryside, stopping at scenic viewpoints to admire panoramic views and photograph the iconic scenery.
- Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore: Visit the Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore, a stunning Benedictine monastery located in the hills near Asciano. Visitors can tour the abbey complex, admire its beautiful Renaissance frescoes by Luca Signorelli and Il Sodoma, and explore the serene gardens and cloisters.
- Wine Tasting Tours: Experience the flavors of the Tuscan countryside with wine tasting tours at local wineries near Asciano. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, including Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino, while learning about the winemaking process and terroir of the region from knowledgeable guides.
- Cultural Events: Attend local festivals and cultural events held in Asciano throughout the year, celebrating traditions, music, and culinary heritage. Visitors can enjoy concerts, art exhibitions, and food festivals, as well as participate in workshops and activities showcasing the local culture and traditions.
Where should I eat in Asciano?
- Osteria Le Pietre Vive: Situated in the historic center of Asciano, Osteria Le Pietre Vive is a charming restaurant known for its warm ambiance and delicious food. The menu features a variety of Tuscan specialties, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine in the cozy indoor dining room or on the outdoor terrace overlooking the town's medieval streets.
- Trattoria Osenna: Located just outside the town center, Trattoria Osenna is a family-run restaurant serving authentic Tuscan cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. The menu showcases traditional dishes prepared with care and attention to detail, such as ribollita (Tuscan bread soup), pici pasta with wild boar ragu, and bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine-style steak). The restaurant's welcoming ambiance and friendly service make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
- Il Goccino: This charming restaurant is housed in a historic building in the heart of Asciano's old town. Il Goccino specializes in creative interpretations of classic Tuscan dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly to highlight the best produce available, ensuring a unique dining experience with each visit. Diners can enjoy their meal in the restaurant's elegant dining room or on the outdoor terrace overlooking the surrounding countryside.
- La Mencia: Tucked away on a quiet street in Asciano, La Mencia is a cozy trattoria known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious food. The menu features a mix of traditional Tuscan dishes and innovative creations, all prepared with care and attention to detail. Highlights include homemade pasta, grilled meats, and fresh seafood dishes. Guests can also choose from an extensive selection of local wines to complement their meal.
- Il Ponte Vecchio: Overlooking the Arbia River, Il Ponte Vecchio is a popular restaurant known for its stunning views and delicious Tuscan cuisine. The menu offers a variety of dishes inspired by the region's culinary traditions, including antipasti, primi piatti, and secondi piatti. Diners can enjoy their meal on the outdoor terrace, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Tuscan countryside.
Asciano Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Asciano?
- Montaperti Hotel: Located just outside of Asciano, Montaperti Hotel offers modern accommodations with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine, and amenities such as free Wi-Fi and parking.
- Castello di Leonina Relais: Situated in the countryside near Asciano, Castello di Leonina Relais is a historic castle turned luxury hotel. Guests can stay in elegantly decorated rooms and suites, enjoy a swimming pool, a spa, and a gourmet restaurant serving Tuscan specialties.
- Borgo Casabianca: Located a short drive from Asciano, Borgo Casabianca is a charming country estate set amidst vineyards and olive groves. The hotel offers rustic-chic accommodations in restored farmhouses, a swimming pool, a restaurant serving farm-to-table cuisine, and activities such as cooking classes and wine tastings.
- Agriturismo Podere Alberese: Situated in the countryside near Asciano, Agriturismo Podere Alberese offers cozy accommodations in a traditional Tuscan farmhouse. Guests can stay in comfortable rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade meals made with ingredients from the farm, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
- Hotel Ristorante Fornaci di Bacco: Located in the nearby town of Rapolano Terme, Hotel Ristorante Fornaci di Bacco offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to Asciano. The hotel features modern rooms, a restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine, and amenities such as free Wi-Fi and parking.
What's the closest airport to Asciano?
Florence Airport (Peretola Airport):
Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
- Located approximately 100 kilometers away from Asciano.
- From Florence Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Asciano. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle service to Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station and then continue by train to the nearest train station close to Asciano.
Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
- Located approximately 150 kilometers away from Asciano.
- From Pisa Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Asciano. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle service to Pisa Centrale Train Station and then continue by train to the nearest train station close to Asciano.
Does Asciano have its own train station?
Asciano Train Station:
- Located in the town of Asciano.
- Asciano has its own train station, making it convenient to reach by train from various cities in Tuscany and other regions.
What private transfer options are there for Asciano?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to Asciano takes around one hour 25 minutes.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
- Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
- Arrival date
- Arrival time
- Number of passengers
- Destination (either town or specific hotel)
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit Asciano?
- Siena: Siena is a larger city located approximately 25 kilometers northwest of Asciano. You can find several car rental agencies in Siena, both in the city center and at Siena's train station.
- Montevarchi: Montevarchi is a town located approximately 35 kilometers north of Asciano. While smaller than Siena, it may have car rental options available.
- Regional Airports: While there are no major airports very close to Asciano, you could also consider looking for rental options at airports such as Florence Airport (Peretola) or Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei), though they are further away.
