Sarteano​

Latest page update: 23 May 2025
By: Dion Protani

Where to Stay

Where to Stay in Sarteano
Sarteano offers a small but well-regarded selection of established hotels, reflecting its position between the Val d’Orcia and the Val di Chiana. The best-rated options combine historic character, comfort and consistently positive guest feedback for service and hospitality.
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Albergo La Lanterna is a leading choice, offering comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine and a pool, praised for its welcoming staff, cleanliness and good location (€€). Parco delle Piscine provides resort-style accommodation with extensive outdoor facilities, including thermal pools and gardens, appreciated for its peaceful setting and well-maintained amenities (€€). For a more refined experience, La Gustea Hotel & Cucina offers modern rooms with elegant design and an excellent restaurant, earning excellent reviews for its food, comfort and professional service (€€€).

Where is

Where is Sarteano?
The town of Sarteano is situated within the Province of Siena and stands at an elevation of 573 metres above sea level. It has a population of around 5,000 inhabitants.

Places of interest nearby include Cetona, Chianciano Terme, Chiusi and Montepulciano while the recommended accommodation is the La Gustea Hotel & Cucina.
Sarteano is included in the list of Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag) towns, and its main sights include the 15th century fortress which sits on a hill overlooking the town.

The Castello di Sarteano originally dated back to the 11th century but the edifice we see today was constructed in 1469. The Castle lies among a wooded area from which you can walk back towards the town and get a great view from above.

The centro storico (historic centre) is characterised by pretty medieval buildings centring around Piazza XXIV Giugno. Just a short walk from the Piazza there's an archaeological museum with the intriguing title of Tomb of Hell's Quadriga which exhibits artefacts from the local area's rich Etruscan heritage. 
Comune di Sarteano
Province: Siena

Region: Tuscany

​Population: 4,480 (in 2024 - source)

Size: 85 km²

Elevation: 573 metres

Highlights: Castello di Sarteano, Piazza XXIV Giugno

​Close by: Cetona, Chianciano Terme, Chiusi, Montepulciano

Recommended accommodation: La Gustea Hotel & Cucina
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)

1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano

What People Ask About Sarteano

Is Sarteano worth visiting?
Yes, Sarteano is worth visiting for its medieval castle, thermal springs, and Etruscan heritage. The town is set in southern Tuscany near the Val d’Orcia and offers a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.
What are the main attractions in Sarteano?
Main attractions include the imposing Sarteano Castle, the Etruscan Museum with important tomb finds, and the Church of San Martino. The nearby thermal baths of Sarteano are also popular with visitors.
How do I get to Sarteano?
Sarteano is located in the province of Siena, about 80 kilometres south-east of Siena. The nearest train station is Chiusi-Chianciano Terme, around 12 kilometres away, with buses and taxis available for the onward journey. By car, it is close to the A1 motorway.
When is the best time to visit Sarteano?
Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Sarteano, with mild weather ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer is lively with events and festivals, while winter is quieter and focused on the thermal baths.
What food is Sarteano known for?
Sarteano is known for traditional Tuscan cuisine, including handmade pici pasta, local game dishes, and Pecorino cheese. Olive oil and wines from nearby vineyards also feature strongly in the local food culture.
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Discover

Discover Sarteano
Sarteano is a historic town in the Province of Siena, located between the Val d’Orcia and the Val di Chiana in southern Tuscany. Set on a gentle hill beneath Mount Cetona, it is surrounded by olive groves, woodlands and open countryside. The old town is enclosed by walls and defined by its stone buildings, winding lanes and small piazzas that preserve the charm of a traditional Tuscan settlement.
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Dominating the skyline is the Rocca di Sarteano, a medieval fortress that overlooks the surrounding valleys. The Collegiata di San Lorenzo and the Museo Civico Archeologico di Sarteano showcase the town’s Etruscan heritage, with nearby tombs among the most notable in the region. Sarteano lies close to Chianciano Terme, Cetona, and Chiusi, and its position along the main routes between Siena and Orvieto makes it an ideal base for exploring the southern Tuscan landscape.

Things to Do

Things to Do in Sarteano
  • Centro Storico di Sarteano is a charming medieval town where winding stone streets pass among noble palaces, arched passageways, and terracotta rooftops. Stone façades, wooden shutters, and flowering balconies bring colour and elegance to the traditional architecture. The town sits on a gentle slope in southern Tuscany, surrounded by wooded hills and views stretching over the Val di Chiana. Its atmosphere blends quiet village life with a strong sense of ancient history and culture.
  • Collegiata di San Martino stands prominently in Sarteano, with a graceful façade and a serene, luminous interior. Inside are Renaissance paintings, carved wooden altars, and fine decorative details reflecting centuries of artistry. The church remains central to religious life and community events. It’s a peaceful and inspiring place to visit while exploring Sarteano’s streets.
  • Piazza XXIV Giugno serves as the lively heart of Sarteano, edged with historic buildings, small shops, and inviting cafés. Locals and visitors gather here for markets, festivals, and lively conversations. Outdoor seating offers views of medieval façades and glimpses of the surrounding hills. The square reflects the gentle, welcoming rhythm of life in this Tuscan town.
  • Castello di Sarteano crowns the town, a medieval fortress with stone towers, thick walls, and panoramic terraces. Climbing through the fortress offers sweeping views over the Val di Chiana and distant Monte Cetona. The castle stands as a symbol of Sarteano’s strategic past and medieval power. It’s a highlight for history enthusiasts and photographers alike.
  • Guided Etruscan and historical tours in Sarteano explore ancient tombs, medieval streets, and archaeological sites nearby. Local guides share stories about noble families, Etruscan artefacts, and regional traditions. Tours often include tastings of local wines, olive oil, and traditional Tuscan dishes. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the cultural richness and layered history of southern Tuscany.

Tours and Activities

Sarteano Tours and Activities

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

How to Get to [Place Name]

How to Get to Sarteano
By Rail: Sarteano does not have its own railway station. The nearest station is in Chiusi-Chianciano Terme (around 12 kilometres away), positioned on the Florence–Rome line operated by Trenitalia. Trains from Chiusi reach Florence in about 1 hour and 30 minutes and Rome in roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes. From the station, Sarteano can be reached by car, taxi, or local bus via the SP478 road.

By Road: The town lies in southern Tuscany, near the border with Umbria. From Siena, the distance is approximately 90 kilometres, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes via the SS326 and SP478 roads. From Florence, it is around 135 kilometres, with a journey time of roughly 2 hours, while from Rome the distance is about 150 kilometres and takes approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes. Visitors will find parking options near the historic centre, with easy access for walking tours.

Nearest International Airports:
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  • Florence Peretola Airport: Located about 135 kilometres from Sarteano, with a driving time of around 2 hours. It provides regular flights to many major European cities and domestic destinations.
  • Pisa Galileo Galilei Airport: Approximately 190 kilometres away, the journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. It serves a broad network of domestic, European, and seasonal international routes.
  • Rome Fiumicino Airport: Roughly 150 kilometres from Sarteano, with a driving time of about 2 hours and 10 minutes. It is Italy’s main international airport, offering extensive global and long-haul connections.

Private Transfers

Sarteano Private Transfers
A private transfer provides a comfortable and efficient way to reach Sarteano or continue your journey to other destinations in southern Tuscany and beyond. You’ll be collected from your preferred location and taken directly to your destination by a professional driver, avoiding the need for car hire or public transport connections.

From Sarteano, 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 Chiusi, Cetona, and Montepulciano, or for exploring the surrounding landscapes of the Val di Chiana and Val d’Orcia.
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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.

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