
Calci Charterhouse Certosa di Pisa
A magnificent Carthusian monastery showcasing stunning baroque art and a glimpse into monastic life, just minutes from Pisa.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.

Calci Charterhouse Certosa di Pisa
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent Carthusian monastery showcasing stunning baroque art and a glimpse into monastic life, just minutes from Pisa.
"A true gem, this historic monastery takes you back to baroque Tuscany with a generous tour for a ridiculously low price."

📞 Book Tours by Phone
Essential for entry! Call ahead to reserve your spot and specify your preferred language.
💰 Bring Cash for Tickets
Tickets are very cheap but can only be paid for with cash.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Cloister
Central Courtyard
Wander through the serene cloister, a testament to Carthusian monastic life and baroque architecture.

Monastery Church
Main Building
Marvel at the ornate baroque interiors, a stunning blend of art and religious devotion.

Museum of Natural History
Former Monastery Buildings
Explore fascinating exhibits showcasing natural history, a unique contrast to the religious setting.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
Cash is King for Tickets
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📞 Book Tours by Phone
Essential for entry! Call ahead to reserve your spot and specify your preferred language.
💰 Bring Cash for Tickets
Tickets are very cheap but can only be paid for with cash.
🗣️ English Tour Availability
While tours are often in Italian, English literature is provided. Confirm English tours when booking.
📸 Camera Ready!
The architecture and art are stunning, perfect for photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
📞 Book Tours by Phone
Essential for entry! Call ahead to reserve your spot and specify your preferred language.
💰 Bring Cash for Tickets
Tickets are very cheap but can only be paid for with cash.
🗣️ English Tour Availability
While tours are often in Italian, English literature is provided. Confirm English tours when booking.
📸 Camera Ready!
The architecture and art are stunning, perfect for photography.
⏳ Allow an Hour
A guided tour typically lasts about an hour, so plan accordingly.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Calci Charterhouse for its historical significance, stunning baroque art, and serene atmosphere. The guided tours are highlighted as informative and engaging, with many appreciating the incredibly low entry fee. However, some non-Italian speakers have expressed disappointment with the limited English support during tours, feeling it detracted from their experience.
"Wow, what a place, what history.
We joined an Italian spoken guided tour and were amazed.
The courtesy of our guide and the colleague who the day before had booked us the tour were delightful.
Worth setting an hour or so aside to see this place.
Magical.
Thank you everyone who made us so welcome.
Grazie Mille
😊"
Kevan Sinclair
"Fantastic visit, very informative. The Certosa is absolutely beautiful and provides a wonderful glimpse on the cloistered life of the Carthusian fathers. Our guide Anna was competent, passionate and very kind.
Tours are guided and can only be booked by phone. Make sure you specify the language you need (visits are usually held in Italian, but you can also book English tours). Bring your cameras and don’t forget cash: the (very cheap) entry tickets can only be paid by cash."
Fiorenza Gaudenzi
"Nice to visit, but if you are a non Italian speaker, you pay full fee and get no service. The guide isn't bothered by non Italians who have to glare at one (English) one pager 🤫 Not very religious for such a religious place 😇"
Ingo De Schryver
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Calci Charterhouse (Certosa di Pisa) is located about 10 minutes from Pisa airport. You can reach it by car or by taking a local bus from Pisa. Parking is generally available nearby.
Local buses connect Pisa to Calci, making public transport a viable option. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and timings.
Driving offers the most flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding countryside. However, public buses are a budget-friendly alternative.
Yes, there is typically parking available near the Certosa, though it might be limited during peak times.
Calci Charterhouse is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Florence, making it a feasible day trip from the Tuscan capital.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, guided tours are mandatory and must be booked in advance, usually by phone. It's highly recommended to book ahead, especially if you require an English tour.
The entry ticket price is very affordable. However, payment is strictly in cash, so be sure to bring enough.
Tickets are purchased as part of the guided tour booking. It's best to call and reserve your spot to ensure availability and the correct language.
Information on discounts is not widely publicized, but the standard entry fee is already very low, making it an excellent value.
Opening hours and tour times can vary. It's crucial to call and confirm the schedule, especially for English-language tours, as they may have specific timings.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Tours are primarily conducted in Italian. While English literature is provided, some visitors have noted that this may not be sufficient for a full understanding. It's best to confirm English tour availability when booking.
A typical guided tour lasts about an hour. Some visitors have noted tours can sometimes end a bit early.
You'll explore the stunning monastery church, the grand cloister, and various monastic cells, offering a glimpse into the Carthusian way of life. There's also a natural history museum.
The historic nature of the building may present challenges for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to inquire about accessibility when booking your tour.
Photography is generally permitted, and many visitors capture the beautiful architecture and art. Be mindful of any specific restrictions announced during the tour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within the Certosa itself. However, the town of Calci offers several local trattorias and cafes where you can enjoy Tuscan cuisine.
Expect traditional Tuscan dishes, including pasta, local meats, and regional wines. Many eateries offer a charming, authentic dining experience.
Yes, Calci has several dining options. It's a great place to stop for lunch after your visit to the Charterhouse.
You'll likely find small cafes or bars in the town of Calci offering coffee, pastries, and light snacks.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume your own food outside the main historical areas to preserve the site. Check for designated picnic spots if available.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand cloister, the ornate church interiors, and the surrounding countryside offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Photography is generally allowed inside the church, but it's always wise to be discreet and check for any posted signs or guide instructions.
A camera with good low-light capabilities is beneficial for the interior shots. A wide-angle lens can help capture the grandeur of the architecture.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at historical and religious sites to maintain peace and prevent disturbance. Always check local regulations.
Morning light can be beautiful for exterior shots, while afternoon light might offer softer illumination inside. Consider the tour schedule to maximize your photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families, the short distance from Pisa is a plus, making it an easy addition to a day trip. The beautiful countryside surrounding Calci also offers opportunities for a picnic or a short walk if children need to burn off energy before or after the visit. Ensure you confirm tour language availability to make the experience as inclusive as possible.
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down further, consider packing your own lunch or snacks, as dining options directly at the Certosa are limited. Utilizing public transport from Pisa is also a more economical choice than hiring a taxi or driving, especially if you're traveling solo or as a couple. The value for money here is exceptional, offering a rich historical and artistic experience without breaking the bank.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Carthusian Way of Life
The interaction between church and politics over the centuries is also a key theme explored within the Certosa. Its history is intertwined with powerful families and significant political events, shaping its development and wealth. The art and architecture often served not only religious purposes but also as statements of power and influence. Learning about these historical connections provides a broader context for the Certosa's existence and its role in Tuscan history.
Baroque Artistry and Architecture
Beyond the church, the grand cloister is another highlight, showcasing the harmonious integration of architectural elements and serene landscaping. The design aims to foster a sense of peace and contemplation, essential to the Carthusian ethos. Exploring these spaces allows visitors to appreciate the meticulous craftsmanship and artistic vision that went into creating this historical monument.




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