Activities

Street Theatre Festival

Mercantia, the premier international festival of the “fourth type of theatre”, is Italy’s most significant street theatre festival, held annually over five enchanting days in July in Certaldo.

This illustrious town, renowned as the birthplace of Giovanni Boccaccio, transforms into a vibrant hub filled with hundreds of artists showcasing an array of performances, ranging from dance and visual arts to street band shows and parades.

For five magical evenings, the squares and streets of this medieval town come alive with singer-storytellers who captivate the youngest audiences with tall tales, tightrope walkers and trapeze artists who defy gravity, captivating clown and marionette shows, acrobats synchronizing to jazz music, and itinerant bands weaving through every corner of the town. Dancers, trampoline performers, and artists who literally “play with fire” add to the spectacular display.

It is an unforgettable experience, enchanting both the young and the young at heart, offering a delightful journey back in time in one of Tuscany's most beautiful towns.

Boccaccesca: Celebrating Culinary and Craft Excellence

In the enchanting village of Boccaccio, an autumn event dedicated to local products and culinary arts takes place. For three delightful days, the medieval streets of Certaldo come alive with food, wine, entertainment, and crafts, all in honor of its famous citizen, Giovanni Boccaccio. Boccaccesca, founded in 1999, is a festival full of flavors and joy, held every October in Certaldo, the birthplace of the renowned writer

The event showcases the region's finest wine, food, and craft products, emphasizing the Slow Food movement and celebrating local specialties like the famous Certaldo onion. One of the early pioneers in focusing on cooking and chefs, Boccaccesca features cooking shows and street food galore. During the festival, the ancient streets of Certaldo are filled with the aromas and flavors of delicious foods, while music echoes off the medieval walls, creating an unforgettable atmosphere rich with taste and tradition.

Treasure Hunt of the Vicar

Experience a one-of-a-kind treasure hunt set in a genuine medieval historic building adorned with the coats of arms of noble Florentine families. Perfect for a group of friends seeking a unique adventure, corporate team-building activities, or a family outing with teenagers, the engaging puzzles will spark your imagination. The magical setting of the palace adds an enchanting touch to the experience.

The treasure hunt takes place in the enchanting medieval village of Certaldo Alto, specifically in Palazzo Pretorio. This historic Palazzo Civico is adorned, both inside and out, with the coats of arms of the Florentine governors who once resided here and administered justice for centuries. Participants will begin in the central frescoed loggia where they receive a parchment. Each scroll contains a puzzle to solve and a key to unlock the chest that leads to the next clue. From the moment the first puzzle is revealed, participants have one hour to solve the six puzzles on the parchments and discover the hidden treasure of the Vicar.

"Hands in dough" Cooking Class with Lunch

Learn how to make authentic homemade pasta and prepare your own lunch. Discover secrets and techniques of local traditional cuisine. All the dishes will be accompained by the wines of our production.

Upon your arrival, you will be accompanied to the kitchen, where each of you will have a workstation equipped with all the necessary ingredients and tools to prepare your lunch. During the preparation, you will be served our fresh white wine, Vermentino.

Additional Information

• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Service animals allowed
• This tour/activity will have a maximum of 4 travelers

Certaldo: Typical Tuscan Cooking Class and Convivial Meal

Experience an authentic culinary journey! Immerse yourself in the flavors, aromas, and techniques that have made Tuscan cuisine renowned worldwide

Under the guidance of our dedicated cook, Bina, you will be taken step by step through the creation of iconic Tuscan dishes such as ficattole, bruschetta, fresh pasta with white ragù, and more. Our chef will reveal the secrets and tricks to maximize the flavor of each ingredient, ensuring your creations are both authentic and delectable.

Throughout the course, you will also have the chance to savor delicious local wines that perfectly complement the dishes you prepare. Learn to appreciate the subtle nuances of taste and aroma in Tuscan wines, further enhancing your culinary adventure.

Once your dishes are complete, we will gather to enjoy the fruits of your labor in a convivial and welcoming atmosphere. Share stories and laughter with fellow participants, creating unforgettable memories to cherish.

This Tuscan dining experience is ideal for groups of friends or couples looking to spend quality time together while learning new culinary skills and forming lasting bonds over food and shared experiences. Whether you're a cooking enthusiast or a beginner, you will be warmly welcomed and guided on a culinary journey that will deepen your appreciation for Tuscan cuisine and its culture.

Duration: 5 hours

Instructor: English, Italian

Group Size: Limited to 6 participants

Tour of Machiavelli's House & Dinner with Wine Tasting

The visit of the Machiavelli house with the Italian garden and the historic cellars and the gourmet menu to be enjoyed in the oldest restaurant in Tuscany.

Guided tour of Niccolò Machiavelli 's original house-museum , with special opening of his private study where he wrote the famous " The Prince ".

Visit to the Italian Garden with a view of the Florence Cathedral.

Historic cellars from the 13th century and the secret underground tunnel that connects the cellar to the building of the oldest Italian restaurant called " Albergaccio since 1450 ".

From Certaldo: San Gimignano and Boccaccio E-Bike Tour

Discover the medieval village of San Gimignano on an e-bike tour from Certaldo. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and visit the birthplace of Boccaccio.

Starting from Certaldo, you will cycle along panoramic and scenic routes, enjoying the comfort of our e-bikes. Arrive in San Gimignano, renowned for its medieval towers that dominate the landscape.

Take time to explore the cobbled streets, admire the historic architecture, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this ancient village.

Lunch will be an unforgettable experience at "Enoteca Gustavo," where you can savor typical local food. Delight in the delicious "pan anointed" with seasonal extra virgin olive oil and conclude with an artisanal ice cream that will satisfy your senses.

After satisfying your palate, return to Certaldo with one last special stop. Take the cableway to Certaldo Alto, the birthplace of Boccaccio, one of the most famous poets in the world. Visit the places that inspired the great writer and appreciate the cultural legacy he left behind.

Join us on this unique adventure filled with history, breathtaking landscapes, and gastronomic pleasures. Discover Tuscany in an eco-sustainable way and let yourself be captivated by its beauty without effort or stress.

Duration: 4 hours

Tour Guide: Italian, English

Swimming Pool in Castelfalfi

The swimming pools at Castelfalfi offer a serene escape in the Tuscan countryside. With a large 495 square meter pool and a smaller heated 108 square meter pool, guests can enjoy a refreshing swim surrounded by nature and the medieval castle backdrop.

The pool area includes amenities like sunbeds, umbrellas, and towels, and guests can relax with a welcome drink and a delicious lunch at the poolside Giglio Blu restaurant.

Open from mid-May to the end of summer, these pools are perfect for a day of relaxation and luxury.

Wellness in Gambassi Terme

Le Terme di Gambassi, located in Gambassi Terme, Tuscany, is a wellness center that offers a variety of therapeutic and relaxation services.

The center features thermal baths using the unique salty-bromoiodic water from Pillo, which is known for its beneficial properties. Guests can enjoy thermal therapies for respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, as well as wellness treatments including massages and beauty treatments. The center also has a fitness area equipped with multifunctional exercise machines.

Open daily from 9:30 AM to 7:00 PM, Le Terme di Gambassi provides a serene environment for rejuvenation and health.

Certaldo Padel, Tennis and Sports Center

The Certaldo Padel, Tennis and Sports Center in Certaldo, Italy, offers a variety of sports facilities for enthusiasts.

The center features six tennis courts, one padel court, two football fields (one for five-a-side and one for eleven-a-side), a beach volleyball court, an athletics track, and a gym. It's a great place for both casual and serious athletes to enjoy their favorite sports in a well-maintained environment.

Swimming Pool in Certaldo

The complex is open all year round, offering 4 pools.

There are 2 outdoor pools, used in the summer. As well as 2 indoor pools, used during autumn, winter and spring.