Tuscany's oldest certified hotel occupies a 14th-century monastery in Siena's hills with frescoed ceilings, pool, tennis court, and peaceful cloisters. The restaurant serves traditional Tuscan cuisine using estate-grown ingredients.
Hotel Certosa di Maggiano occupies a 14th-century Carthusian monastery on the hills immediately south of Siena's historic centre, reached via Strada di Certosa just off the Via Cassia road. The property is recognised as Tuscany's oldest certified hotel, converted from monastic use while retaining the original cloister, chapter house, chapel, and frescoed rooms that characterise Carthusian architecture. The setting — surrounded by Sienese hills planted with vines and olive groves — embodies the Tuscan countryside ideal while remaining within 3 kilometres of the Piazza del Campo and the Duomo di Siena.
The hotel offers a small number of rooms and suites distributed across the monastery's historic wings, many preserving original features including coffered ceilings, antique fireplaces, and hand-painted frescoes. Accommodation ranges from Superior rooms to larger suites, all furnished with period-appropriate pieces in keeping with the monastic setting. Wi-Fi and modern bathroom fixtures have been integrated without compromising the property's architectural character.
The restaurant serves traditional Tuscan cuisine drawing on produce from the estate and local farms, with menus that change seasonally. A carefully selected wine list represents Chianti Classico and other Sienese appellations. Dining in the former refectory, with its medieval stone walls and arched ceilings, provides one of the more memorable restaurant settings in the Siena area.
Outdoor amenities include a swimming pool set into the monastery grounds, a tennis court, and extensive gardens and cloister paths ideal for leisurely walks. The absence of urban noise and the property's elevation provide panoramic views across the rolling Crete Senesi landscape. Private parking is available on site — an advantage for guests touring the Chianti Classico wine zone, the Crete Senesi hill towns, or San Gimignano by car.
For guests exploring Siena, taxi services and local bus connections make the historic centre accessible approximately a 10-minute drive away. Rates run approximately €180–€300 in low season and €250–€420 during peak spring and summer.
Amenities
- pool
- tennis court
- restaurant
- historic monastery
- gardens
- parking
- wifi
Location
Strada di Certosa, 82, 53100 Siena SI
43.3050, 11.3180 View on map
Highlights
- 14th-century Carthusian monastery recognised as Tuscany's oldest certified hotel near Siena
- Frescoed rooms, original cloisters, and preserved monastic architecture set in Sienese hillside gardens
- Pool and tennis court within mature monastery grounds with views over the Crete Senesi countryside
- Restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine from seasonal estate and local farm ingredients
- 3 kilometres from Siena's Piazza del Campo with private parking for Chianti and Crete Senesi excursions
Tips for visiting
- The hotel makes a natural base for Palio di Siena visitors (July 2 and August 16); book at least 12 months ahead as Sienese accommodation fills entirely during those dates
- A car is strongly useful for excursions into the Chianti Classico zone and the Crete Senesi villages; the hotel can assist with car hire arrangements
- Request a room overlooking the cloister for the most historically immersive atmosphere in the monastery
- Tuscan summers (July–August) are hot and dry; the pool is a valuable asset during midday hours when outdoor exploration is uncomfortable
- Siena's restricted traffic zone (ZTL) limits driving into the historic centre; taxis and local bus line 3 are more practical for city visits
Accessibility
The monastery building dates from the 14th century and features uneven stone floors, narrow doorways, and staircases throughout much of the historic structure. Some areas may not be accessible to guests with significant mobility limitations. Contact the hotel directly before booking to discuss accessible room options and facility access.
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Frequently asked questions
How old is the hotel and what was it originally?
The property was built as a Carthusian monastery in the 14th century and is recognised as Tuscany's oldest certified hotel following its conversion to accommodation use.
Is the restaurant open to non-residents?
The restaurant is primarily for hotel guests. Non-resident bookings are sometimes accommodated but advance enquiry with the hotel is recommended.
Is a car necessary to reach the hotel?
A car is convenient, as the hotel is located on a hill road approximately 3 kilometres south of Siena's historic centre. Taxi services from the city are available and can be arranged through the reception.
Does the hotel have a pool?
Yes, an outdoor swimming pool is available to guests during the warmer season, typically May through September, set within the monastery gardens.