Chiusi
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Latest page update: 23 May 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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Where to Stay
Where to Stay in Chiusi
Chiusi offers a solid selection of established hotels, reflecting its importance as a historic Etruscan town and transport hub in southern Tuscany. The best-rated options combine comfort, accessibility and consistently strong guest feedback for service and value.
Albergo La Sfinge is a popular choice near the historic centre, offering comfortable rooms and friendly service, praised for its cleanliness, location and good value (€€). Hotel Rosati, located close to the motorway and train station, provides modern accommodation with a restaurant, bar and parking, appreciated for its convenience, helpful staff and traditional cuisine (€€). For a more refined stay, Hotel Villa Il Patriarca offers elegant rooms in a 19th-century villa with a pool, parkland and gourmet restaurant, earning excellent reviews for its charm, facilities and professional hospitality (€€€).
Albergo La Sfinge is a popular choice near the historic centre, offering comfortable rooms and friendly service, praised for its cleanliness, location and good value (€€). Hotel Rosati, located close to the motorway and train station, provides modern accommodation with a restaurant, bar and parking, appreciated for its convenience, helpful staff and traditional cuisine (€€). For a more refined stay, Hotel Villa Il Patriarca offers elegant rooms in a 19th-century villa with a pool, parkland and gourmet restaurant, earning excellent reviews for its charm, facilities and professional hospitality (€€€).
Where is
Where is Chiusi?
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The town of Chiusi is situated within the Province of Siena and stands at an elevation of 398 metres above sea level. It has a population of around 8,000 inhabitants.
Places of interest nearby include Sarteano, Cetona, Chianciano Terme and Montepulciano while the recommended accommodation is the four star Il Patriarca hotel. |
Chiusi is one of 24 Tuscan towns to qualify for the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag). Among its most visited sights is the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Chiusi which exhibits artefacts from the town's Etruscan heritage. Another treasure is the Concattedrale di San Secondiano which dates all the way back to the 6th century, making it one of the oldest churches in Tuscany.
Comune di Chiusi
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Province: Siena
Region: Tuscany Population: 8,176 (in 2024 - source) Size: 58 km² Elevation: 398 metres Highlights: Etruscan Museum, Concattedrale di San Secondiano Close by: Sarteano, Cetona, Chianciano Terme, Montepulciano |
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
What People Ask About Chiusi
Is Chiusi worth visiting?
Yes, Chiusi is worth visiting for its Etruscan heritage, historic old town, and underground tunnels. It also offers museums and archaeological sites that give insight into one of Italy’s earliest civilisations.
What are the main attractions in Chiusi?
The main attractions include the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, the underground Etruscan Labyrinth of Porsenna, the Catacombs of Santa Mustiola, and the Cathedral of San Secondiano. Lake Chiusi nearby also attracts visitors for its natural setting.
How do I get to Chiusi?
Chiusi has its own train station, Chiusi-Chianciano Terme, with direct connections to Florence, Rome, and Siena. By car, it is reached via the A1 motorway exit at Chiusi, making it easily accessible for travellers in Tuscany and Umbria.
When is the best time to visit Chiusi?
The best time to visit Chiusi is from April to October, when the weather is warm for exploring both the town and nearby countryside. Spring and early autumn are particularly good for avoiding peak summer heat.
What food is Chiusi known for?
Chiusi is known for traditional Tuscan dishes such as pici pasta, cured meats, and truffle-based recipes. The area also produces excellent wines, particularly from nearby Montepulciano and Chianti regions.
Related links
Discover
Discover Chiusi
Chiusi is an ancient town in the Province of Siena, located in southern Tuscany near the border with Umbria. Set on a hill above the Val di Chiana, it is surrounded by fertile plains and rolling countryside. The town’s origins date back to the Etruscan civilisation, and its layout still reflects centuries of continuous settlement, with a network of narrow streets, stone houses and views across the surrounding valley.
The Cathedral of San Secondiano and the Museo Nazionale Etrusco illustrate Chiusi’s deep historical roots, while the Labyrinth of Porsenna beneath the old town preserves traces of its Etruscan past. Nearby Lake Chiusi adds a natural element to the landscape, supporting birdlife and walking trails. The town’s location along the Rome–Florence railway line and close to major roads makes it an important gateway to the southern Tuscan area, linking easily with Montepulciano, Città della Pieve, and Sarteano.
The Cathedral of San Secondiano and the Museo Nazionale Etrusco illustrate Chiusi’s deep historical roots, while the Labyrinth of Porsenna beneath the old town preserves traces of its Etruscan past. Nearby Lake Chiusi adds a natural element to the landscape, supporting birdlife and walking trails. The town’s location along the Rome–Florence railway line and close to major roads makes it an important gateway to the southern Tuscan area, linking easily with Montepulciano, Città della Pieve, and Sarteano.
Things to Do
Things to Do in Chiusi
- Centro Storico di Chiusi is a historic Tuscan town where narrow streets wind among stone buildings, arched passageways, and terracotta rooftops. Elegant façades, wooden shutters, and small squares add charm and colour to the traditional architecture. The town sits on a hill in southern Tuscany, overlooking rolling countryside and distant lakes. Its atmosphere blends quiet town life with a profound sense of Etruscan and Roman history.
- Cattedrale di San Secondiano stands proudly in Chiusi, with a Romanesque façade and a bright, peaceful interior. Inside are ancient columns, medieval frescoes, and finely carved details reflecting centuries of artistry. The cathedral remains central to religious life and community events. It’s an inspiring place to visit while exploring Chiusi’s historic streets.
- Piazza Duomo serves as the social and cultural heart of Chiusi, edged with historic buildings, museums, and inviting cafés. Locals and visitors gather here for markets, festivals, and lively conversation. Outdoor seating offers views of elegant façades and glimpses of the surrounding hills. The square reflects the vibrant yet gentle rhythm of this Tuscan town.
- Museo Nazionale Etrusco di Chiusi lies in the town centre and houses one of Italy’s finest collections of Etruscan artefacts. Highlights include intricate funerary urns, ceramics, and sculptures that reveal the sophistication of Etruscan civilisation. The museum provides a fascinating window into Chiusi’s ancient past. It’s a must-see for lovers of history and archaeology.
- Guided Etruscan and underground tours in Chiusi take visitors through ancient tunnels, tombs, and hidden passages beneath the town. Local guides share stories about Etruscan kings, Roman settlements, and medieval fortifications. Tours often include tastings of local wines, olive oil, and Tuscan specialities. It’s an exciting way to connect with the cultural depth and layered history of southern Tuscany.
Tours and Activities
Chiusi Tours and Activities
Photo Gallery
Chiusi Photo Gallery
Tuscany Top 10 - My Recommended Destinations in Tuscany
1. Florence
2. Siena
3. Val d'Orcia
4. Pisa
5. Lucca
6. San Gimignano
7. Giglio
8. Volterra
9. Pienza
10. Elba
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Tuscany
1. Florence
2. Siena
3. Val d'Orcia
4. Pisa
5. Lucca
6. San Gimignano
7. Giglio
8. Volterra
9. Pienza
10. Elba
👉 Explore the Top 10 Places to Visit in Tuscany
How to Get to [Place Name]
How to Get to Chiusi
By Rail: Chiusi has an important railway station, Chiusi-Chianciano Terme, situated on the main Florence–Rome line operated by Trenitalia. It is served by both regional and intercity trains. Services connect Chiusi to Florence in about 1 hour and 30 minutes, to Rome in around 1 hour and 40 minutes, and to Siena in roughly 1 hour via Asciano. The station is located close to the town centre and provides regular bus and taxi connections to surrounding areas.
By Road: The town lies in southern Tuscany, near the borders with Umbria and Lazio. From Siena, the distance is about 90 kilometres, with a driving time of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes via the SS326 and SP146 roads. From Florence, it is roughly 130 kilometres and takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes, while from Rome the journey is about 150 kilometres and takes around 2 hours. Ample parking is available near the train station and on the outskirts of the historic centre.
Nearest International Airports:
By Road: The town lies in southern Tuscany, near the borders with Umbria and Lazio. From Siena, the distance is about 90 kilometres, with a driving time of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes via the SS326 and SP146 roads. From Florence, it is roughly 130 kilometres and takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes, while from Rome the journey is about 150 kilometres and takes around 2 hours. Ample parking is available near the train station and on the outskirts of the historic centre.
Nearest International Airports:
- Florence Peretola Airport: Located about 130 kilometres from Chiusi, with a driving time of around 1 hour and 50 minutes. It offers regular flights to major European and Italian cities.
- Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport: Approximately 190 kilometres away, the journey takes around 2 hours and 40 minutes. It provides a wide selection of domestic, European, and seasonal international flights.
- Rome Fiumicino Airport: Roughly 150 kilometres from Chiusi, with a driving time of about 2 hours. It serves as Italy’s main international hub with extensive global connections.
Private Transfers
Chiusi Private Transfers
A private transfer is a convenient and comfortable way to reach Chiusi or continue your journey to other destinations in Tuscany and Umbria. You’ll be collected from your preferred location and taken directly to your destination by a professional driver, providing a straightforward alternative to train or car travel.
From Chiusi, transfers can connect you with Florence Airport, Perugia Airport, and Rome Fiumicino Airport for onward travel. They are also ideal for reaching nearby towns such as Montepulciano, Cetona, and Pienza, or for exploring the wider Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia regions.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.
From Chiusi, transfers can connect you with Florence Airport, Perugia Airport, and Rome Fiumicino Airport for onward travel. They are also ideal for reaching nearby towns such as Montepulciano, Cetona, and Pienza, or for exploring the wider Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia regions.
To request a quote or check availability for a private transfer, just fill out the short form below and we’ll get back to you with all the details.

