Colle di Val d'Elsa
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Latest page update: 18 September 2024
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By Dion Protani
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The historic town of Colle di Val d'Elsa is nestled in the province of Siena with a population of approximately 21,000 inhabitants.
Renowned for its centuries-old tradition of glassmaking, it's often called the "Crystal City." The town's historic centre, divided into the upper and lower parts, is dotted with medieval architecture like the Palazzo dei Priori and Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta. |
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Colle di Val d'Elsa: the Crystal City
Located in the heart of Tuscany, Colle di Val d'Elsa is a picturesque town steeped in history and artistic heritage. Explore the charming medieval streets of the old town, where ancient stone buildings and elegant palazzos evoke centuries of history. Admire the breathtaking views from the panoramic terrace of the Duomo, a stunning example of Gothic architecture adorned with intricate frescoes.
Discover the town's rich artisanal tradition at the Crystal Museum, showcasing the renowned glass craftsmanship of the region. Nearby, the rolling hills of the Chianti countryside invite leisurely walks and wine tasting adventures. Colle di Val d'Elsa promises a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Discover the town's rich artisanal tradition at the Crystal Museum, showcasing the renowned glass craftsmanship of the region. Nearby, the rolling hills of the Chianti countryside invite leisurely walks and wine tasting adventures. Colle di Val d'Elsa promises a captivating blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.
Comune di Colle di Val d'Elsa
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Highlights: Colle Alta, Piazza Arnolfo, Museo del Cristallo
Market day: Fridays from 08:30 - 13:30 Famous native: Arnolfo di Cambio, architect (1240-1310) Close by: San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, Casole d'Elsa, Siena Recommended accommodation: Hotel Palazzo San Lorenzo & Spa |
What are the best things to do in Colle di val d'Elsa and the local area?
- Colle Alta: Explore the medieval upper town of Colle di Val d'Elsa, known as Colle Alta, which features well-preserved architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can stroll through the historic center, admire the ancient buildings, and visit landmarks such as the Palazzo dei Priori and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
- Crystal Museum (Museo del Cristallo): Discover the rich history of crystal production in Colle di Val d'Elsa at the Crystal Museum. Visitors can learn about the traditional craftsmanship of crystal glassmaking, see exquisite crystal artifacts, and watch demonstrations by skilled artisans.
- Artisan Workshops: Visit artisan workshops in Colle di Val d'Elsa to see traditional crafts being made by skilled artisans. Visitors can watch demonstrations of pottery, ceramics, and glassblowing, and purchase handmade souvenirs such as pottery, glassware, and jewelry.
- Via Francigena: Walk a section of the historic Via Francigena pilgrimage route, which passes through Colle di Val d'Elsa on its journey from Canterbury to Rome. Visitors can follow scenic trails that wind through the Tuscan countryside, passing vineyards, olive groves, and medieval villages.
- Archeological Sites: Explore archeological sites near Colle di Val d'Elsa, such as the Etruscan necropolis of Poggino and the Roman ruins of Poggibonsi. Visitors can learn about the ancient history of the region and see artifacts dating back to the Etruscan and Roman periods.
- Local Cuisine: Sample traditional Tuscan cuisine at local restaurants and trattorias in Colle di Val d'Elsa. Visitors can savor dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including handmade pasta, wild game, and seasonal vegetables, paired with regional wines from nearby vineyards.
Where should I eat in Colle di Val d'Elsa?
- Arnolfo: Situated in the historic center of Colle di Val d'Elsa, Arnolfo is a Michelin-starred restaurant renowned for its elegant ambiance and innovative cuisine. Helmed by chef Gaetano Trovato, the restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on seasonal ingredients and creative presentations. Diners can choose from tasting menus featuring dishes inspired by Tuscan tradition with modern twists.
- Antica Trattoria L'Archetto: Located in a charming medieval building near the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, Antica Trattoria L'Archetto is a family-run restaurant known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. The menu features a variety of traditional dishes, including homemade pasta, grilled meats, and hearty soups, all made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Ristorante Il Frantoio: Set in a historic olive oil mill overlooking the rolling hills of Tuscany, Ristorante Il Frantoio offers a picturesque setting for dining al fresco. The restaurant specializes in Tuscan cuisine, with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients and traditional recipes. Guests can enjoy dishes such as wild boar stew, grilled Florentine steak, and homemade desserts.
- Osteria da Rosana: Tucked away on a quiet street in the historic center, Osteria da Rosana is a cozy trattoria known for its homestyle cooking and friendly service. The menu features a variety of traditional Tuscan dishes, including ribollita (Tuscan bean soup), pici pasta with wild boar ragu, and grilled meats. Diners can relax in the rustic dining room or on the outdoor terrace while enjoying their meal.
Colle di Val d'Elsa Gallery
What are the best places to stay in Colle di Val d'Elsa?
- Palazzo San Lorenzo: Located in the heart of Colle di Val d'Elsa's historic center, Palazzo San Lorenzo is a luxury hotel housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century building. The hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with modern amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a wellness center with a sauna and Turkish bath, and a restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine.
- Hotel Arnolfo: Situated in the historic center of Colle di Val d'Elsa, Hotel Arnolfo is a boutique hotel offering comfortable accommodations in a charming setting. The hotel features individually decorated rooms with antique furnishings, along with modern amenities such as air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the hotel's courtyard garden, as well as easy access to the town's attractions and restaurants.
- Hotel Palazzo Renieri: Located in the nearby town of Colle Alta, just a short drive from Colle di Val d'Elsa, Hotel Palazzo Renieri is a historic hotel housed in a 17th-century building. The hotel offers elegant rooms and suites with traditional decor and modern amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the hotel's dining room, as well as easy access to Colle di Val d'Elsa's historic center.
- Villa Sabolini: Situated in the countryside near Colle di Val d'Elsa, Villa Sabolini is a charming hotel set in a historic villa surrounded by gardens. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with traditional decor and modern amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, tennis courts, and a restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine, as well as easy access to the town's attractions and the surrounding countryside.
- Hotel La Vecchia Cartiera: Located in the lower part of Colle di Val d'Elsa, Hotel La Vecchia Cartiera is a modern hotel housed in a converted paper mill. The hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites with contemporary decor and modern amenities, including air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and flat-screen TVs. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the hotel's dining room, as well as easy access to the town's historic center and attractions.
What's the closest airport to Colle di Val d'Elsa?
Florence Airport (Peretola Airport):
Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
- Located approximately 60 kilometers away from Colle di Val d'Elsa.
- From Florence Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Colle di Val d'Elsa. 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 Colle di Val d'Elsa.
Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport):
- Located approximately 90 kilometers away from Colle di Val d'Elsa.
- From Pisa Airport, you can rent a car and drive to Colle di Val d'Elsa. 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 Colle di Val d'Elsa.
Does Colle di Val d'Elsa have its own train station?
Colle di Val d'Elsa Train Station:
- Located in the town of Colle di Val d'Elsa.
- Colle di Val d'Elsa 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 Colle di Val d'Elsa?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to Colle di Val d'Elsa takes around 45 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 Colle di Val d'Elsa?
- Siena: Siena is a larger city located approximately 25 kilometers north of Colle di Val d'Elsa. You can find several car rental agencies in Siena, both in the city center and at Siena's train station.
- San Gimignano: San Gimignano is a nearby medieval hill town located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Colle di Val d'Elsa. While smaller, it's a popular tourist destination and may have car rental options available.
- Regional Airports: While there are no major airports very close to Colle di Val d'Elsa, 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.
