Barberino Val d'Elsa
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Latest update: 29 February 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The charming medieval village of Barberino Val d'Elsa is nestled in the hills of Tuscany within the Metropolitan City of Florence province. With a population of around 4,500 inhabitants, it offers picturesque views of vineyards, olive groves, and the Elsa Valley.
Famous for its historic centre, ancient walls, and the scenic Piazza Barberi, the village is a popular tourist destination. |
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Barberino Val d'Elsa: jewel on the horizon
With its position in the heart of Tuscany's rolling hills, Barberino Val d'Elsa enchants visitors with its medieval charm and breathtaking vistas. Explore the picturesque streets of the historic centre, where ancient stone buildings and quaint piazzas evoke a sense of timeless beauty. Admire the majestic Castello di Barberino, a well-preserved fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Nearby, the verdant vineyards and olive groves of the Chianti Classico region invite leisurely walks and wine tasting adventures. Indulge in authentic Tuscan cuisine at local trattorias, savoring the flavors of the region amidst the tranquil ambiance of Barberino Val d'Elsa's idyllic setting.
Nearby, the verdant vineyards and olive groves of the Chianti Classico region invite leisurely walks and wine tasting adventures. Indulge in authentic Tuscan cuisine at local trattorias, savoring the flavors of the region amidst the tranquil ambiance of Barberino Val d'Elsa's idyllic setting.
Barberino Val d'Elsa - frazione di Barbarino Tavarnelle
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Comune: Barberino Tavarnelle
Province: Metropolitan City of Florence Region: Tuscany Elevation: 373 metres Close by: Val d'Elsa, Certaldo, San Gimignano, Greve in Chianti Recommended accommodation: Hotel Villa San Giorgio (5 km) |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
Listed since: 2003
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
Listed since: 2003
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
What are the best things to do in Barberino Val d'Elsa and the local area?
- Barberino Val d'Elsa Old Town: Explore the picturesque medieval old town of Barberino Val d'Elsa, characterized by its well-preserved historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. Visitors can wander through the charming alleys, visit landmarks such as the Church of San Bartolomeo and the Palazzo Pretorio, and enjoy the town's tranquil atmosphere.
- Vineyard Tours: Experience Tuscan wine culture with tours and tastings at local wineries and vineyards near Barberino Val d'Elsa. Visitors can sample a variety of wines, including Chianti Classico, Vernaccia di San Gimignano, and Super Tuscans, while learning about the winemaking process and terroir of the region from knowledgeable guides.
- Countryside Cycling: Explore the scenic countryside surrounding Barberino Val d'Elsa with cycling tours and bike rentals available in the area. Visitors can ride along picturesque country roads, through vineyards and olive groves, and past medieval villages, enjoying the tranquility and beauty of rural Tuscany.
- Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie al Calcinaio: Visit the Sanctuary of Santa Maria delle Grazie al Calcinaio, a beautiful Renaissance church located just outside Barberino Val d'Elsa. Visitors can admire the church's elegant architecture, decorated with intricate frescoes and sculptures, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape from its hilltop location.
- Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Tuscan cuisine at local restaurants and trattorias in Barberino Val d'Elsa. Visitors can savor dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, including handmade pasta, wild game, truffles, and olive oil, paired with wines from the region.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the scenic hiking trails in the nearby Chianti countryside, offering opportunities to discover hidden valleys, ancient woodlands, and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the vineyards and hills of Tuscany. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks or more challenging hikes, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the area.
Where should I eat in Barberino Val d'Elsa?
- Osteria Il Papavero: This cozy osteria is located in the historic center of Barberino Val d'Elsa and is known for its warm atmosphere and authentic Tuscan dishes. Osteria Il Papavero offers a menu of traditional specialties, including homemade pastas, grilled meats, and hearty soups, all made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine indoors in the rustic dining room or on the outdoor terrace overlooking the charming streets of the village.
- La Toppa: Situated just outside of Barberino Val d'Elsa, La Toppa is a popular trattoria known for its delicious Tuscan cuisine and friendly service. The restaurant's menu features a variety of classic dishes, such as ribollita (Tuscan bread soup), pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta), and bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), all prepared with care and attention to detail. Guests can dine indoors in the cozy dining room or on the outdoor terrace with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
- Ristorante Il Castello: Located within the walls of the medieval castle of Barberino Val d'Elsa, Ristorante Il Castello offers a unique dining experience in a historic setting. The restaurant's menu showcases traditional Tuscan recipes with a modern twist, using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and producers. Guests can dine in the elegant dining room adorned with vaulted ceilings and stone walls, or on the outdoor terrace with stunning views of the Tuscan hills.
- Ristorante Il Paese dei Campanelli: Situated in the nearby village of Marcialla, just a short drive from Barberino Val d'Elsa, Ristorante Il Paese dei Campanelli is a charming family-run restaurant known for its delicious homemade cuisine. The restaurant offers a menu of classic Tuscan dishes, including handmade pastas, slow-cooked stews, and mouthwatering desserts. Guests can dine indoors in the cozy dining room or on the outdoor terrace surrounded by olive groves and vineyards.
- La Sosta di Pio VII: This quaint trattoria is located in the heart of Barberino Val d'Elsa and is housed in a historic building dating back to the 18th century. La Sosta di Pio VII offers a menu of traditional Tuscan fare, with dishes made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy specialties such as panzanella (bread salad), pici al ragù (hand-rolled pasta with meat sauce), and cantucci (almond biscuits) served with Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine. The restaurant's cozy interior features exposed stone walls and wooden beams, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for diners.
Barberino Val d'Elsa Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Barberino Val d'Elsa?
- Hotel Semifonte: Located in Barberino Val d'Elsa itself, Hotel Semifonte offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to the town's attractions. Guests can stay in modern rooms with amenities such as air conditioning and free Wi-Fi, enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet, and explore the town's medieval streets and panoramic viewpoints.
- Castello di Barberino: Situated just outside Barberino Val d'Elsa, Castello di Barberino offers luxurious accommodations in a historic castle surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Guests can stay in elegant rooms and suites, relax by the outdoor swimming pool, and enjoy gourmet dining at the castle's restaurant.
- Agriturismo Fattoria Sant'Appiano: Located in the countryside near Barberino Val d'Elsa, Agriturismo Fattoria Sant'Appiano offers peaceful accommodations in a renovated farmhouse. Guests can stay in cozy rooms or apartments, enjoy homemade meals made with ingredients from the farm, and relax in the garden or by the swimming pool.
- Borgo San Lorenzo: Situated just outside Barberino Val d'Elsa, Borgo San Lorenzo offers charming accommodations in a restored farmhouse surrounded by gardens. Guests can stay in stylish rooms and apartments, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and relax by the outdoor swimming pool.
- Relais Borgo Petrognano: Located in the countryside near Barberino Val d'Elsa, Relais Borgo Petrognano offers elegant accommodations in a historic villa surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Guests can stay in spacious rooms and suites, relax by the outdoor swimming pool, and enjoy gourmet dining at the villa's restaurant.
What's the closest airport to Barberino Val d'Elsa?
Florence Airport (Amerigo Vespucci Airport):
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
- Located approximately 40 kilometers north of Barberino Val d'Elsa.
- From Florence Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Barberino Val d'Elsa. The journey takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic and route.
Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
- Located approximately 90 kilometers west of Barberino Val d'Elsa.
- From Pisa Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Barberino Val d'Elsa. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic and route.
What's the closest train station to Barberino Val d'Elsa?
Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Train Station:
- Located approximately 10 kilometers south of Barberino Val d'Elsa.
- Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Train Station is the nearest major train station to Barberino Val d'Elsa.
- From the train station, you can take a taxi or local transportation to reach Barberino Val d'Elsa.
What private transfer options are there for Barberino Val d'Elsa?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to Barberino Val d'Elsa takes around 40 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 Barberino Val d'Elsa?
- Florence: Florence is a larger city located approximately 35 kilometers north of Barberino Val d'Elsa. You can find several car rental agencies in Florence, both in the city center and possibly at Florence's train station or airports.
- Siena: Siena is another larger city located approximately 45 kilometers south of Barberino Val d'Elsa. You can find car rental agencies in Siena, both in the city center and possibly at Siena's train station.
- Regional Airports: While there are no major airports very close to Barberino Val d'Elsa, you could consider looking for rental options at airports such as Florence Airport (Peretola) or Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei), though they are further away.
