Tarot Garden Giardino dei Tarocchi
A whimsical sculpture park in Tuscany featuring 22 monumental tarot-inspired figures by artist Niki de Saint Phalle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Tarot Garden Giardino dei Tarocchi
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A whimsical sculpture park in Tuscany featuring 22 monumental tarot-inspired figures by artist Niki de Saint Phalle.
"This is amazing! A singular place, very different from all the castles and renaissance art you may have been seeing in Italy."
Book Taxis in Advance
Public transport is limited. Call ahead to book taxis from Capalbio station to avoid disappointment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven paths and exploring sculptures. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Empress Sculpture
Central area
A colossal, vibrant sculpture that's a central piece, often featuring interactive elements and stunning mosaic details.
The High Priestess
Prominent location
An iconic, imposing figure that embodies mystery and intuition, a must-see for its scale and intricate design.
The Devil's House
Distinctive structure
A unique, somewhat eerie structure that offers a glimpse into the darker, more complex themes of the tarot.
Mosaic Details
Throughout the garden
Every surface is adorned with colorful, intricate mosaics. Get up close to appreciate the craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting There Without a Car
Embrace the Art & Story
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Taxis in Advance
Public transport is limited. Call ahead to book taxis from Capalbio station to avoid disappointment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven paths and exploring sculptures. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Take your time to explore the intricate details and soak in the atmosphere.
Read About the Artist
Understanding Niki de Saint Phalle's story adds so much depth to the experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Taxis in Advance
Public transport is limited. Call ahead to book taxis from Capalbio station to avoid disappointment.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven paths and exploring sculptures. Comfortable footwear is a must!
Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Take your time to explore the intricate details and soak in the atmosphere.
Read About the Artist
Understanding Niki de Saint Phalle's story adds so much depth to the experience.
Capture the Colors
The vibrant mosaics and sculptures are incredibly photogenic. Bring your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Tarot Garden's unique, imaginative art and the captivating story of its creator, Niki de Saint Phalle. Many find it an inspiring and magical place, perfect for exploration and photography, though some note challenges with accessibility via public transport.
"This is amazing! Il Giardino dei Tarocchi". Also the story behind it is sad and amazing as well. Please read about Niki de Saint Phalle she is the creator."
Lesley Haw
"It was a singular place, very different from all the castles and renaissance art you may have been seeing in Italy . The garden is the creation of one artist and her vivid imagination. The sculptures are fantastic. It is a small-ish place, so you can go relax and have a good visit among these sculptures or take a 1 hour passegiatta to see them all… we had a good time walking about and taking pictures! Enjoy!"
gabriella gaita
"Stunning works of art with so many fascinating details. The artist’s story is equally captivating and adds depth to the experience. Definitely worth a visit!"
Irma Tamošiūnienė
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Getting to the Tarot Garden from Florence without a car requires planning. You can take a train to Capalbio station. However, public transport from Capalbio to the garden is very limited. It's strongly advised to book a taxi in advance from Capalbio station, as finding one on arrival can be difficult.
Direct public transport to the Tarot Garden is scarce. While trains can get you to nearby towns like Capalbio, you'll likely need to arrange a taxi or private transfer for the final leg of the journey.
From Rome, you can take a train to Capalbio. Similar to traveling from Florence, you will need to arrange a taxi or pre-booked car service from Capalbio station to reach the garden, as direct bus routes are not readily available.
Finding organized tours specifically to the Tarot Garden can be challenging, especially from major cities like Florence. Many visitors opt for independent travel and arrange their own transportation.
The Tarot Garden, or Il Giardino dei Tarocchi, is located at Località Garavicchio, 58011 Pescia Fiorentina, Capalbio, Grosseto, Tuscany, Italy.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's generally recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information on ticket purchases. While not always mandatory, booking in advance can save time, especially during peak season.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to consult the official Tarot Garden website or their social media channels for the most current operating times before your visit.
Ticket prices can change. Refer to the official Tarot Garden website for the most accurate and current admission fees.
No, the Tarot Garden is not free to enter. There is an admission fee, and it's advisable to check the official website for current pricing.
Information on discounts, such as for students or seniors, is typically available on the official Tarot Garden website. It's worth checking their site for any special offers.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
The Tarot Garden is a unique sculpture park featuring 22 monumental, colorful sculptures inspired by the Major Arcana of the tarot. Created by artist Niki de Saint Phalle, it's a whimsical and esoteric wonderland.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll be exploring the garden's paths and uneven terrain. Dress in layers as the weather can change, and wear sun protection.
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged! The vibrant colors and unique sculptures make for fantastic photo opportunities.
You can spend anywhere from 1 to 3 hours exploring the garden. A quick walk-through might take about an hour, but to truly appreciate the details and art, allow more time.
Yes, some sculptures are designed to be interactive, allowing visitors to enter them and experience the art from within.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The iconic Empress and High Priestess sculptures are popular, but don't miss the smaller details, mosaic work, and unique architectural elements scattered throughout the park.
Typically, drone usage is restricted in most public parks and art installations to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check the garden's specific regulations.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, offers beautiful, soft light that enhances the colors of the mosaics and sculptures. Morning light can also be lovely and less crowded.
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the sculptures. Look for reflections in water features and focus on the intricate mosaic patterns for close-up shots.
Tripod usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with the garden's management or look for signage regarding equipment restrictions.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Wear comfortable shoes as there's a lot of walking on varied terrain. Bring snacks and water, as options within the garden might be limited. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and allow children ample space to explore without feeling rushed. The unique art and imaginative designs are sure to spark their creativity.
🎨 Art Enthusiasts
Beyond the visual spectacle, understanding the artist's personal journey and the symbolic meaning behind each tarot card adds a profound layer to the experience. It's a chance to explore themes of spirituality, destiny, and the human psyche through a vibrant and unconventional artistic lens.
Don't miss the chance to learn about the influences that shaped Saint Phalle's work, from Gaudí to folk art. 📸 Photographers
+1Photography tips: Aim for the golden hour in the late afternoon for the most magical light. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the grandeur of the sculptures and macro lenses to highlight the intricate mosaic details. Look for unique perspectives, reflections, and the way the art interacts with the natural landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vision of Niki de Saint Phalle
She dedicated over 20 years of her life to its creation, transforming a hillside in Tuscany into a vibrant, dreamlike landscape. The garden is a testament to her artistic vision, resilience, and passion for bringing fantastical worlds to life. Saint Phalle's personal journey, marked by both triumphs and struggles, is deeply woven into the fabric of the garden. She lived on-site during much of its construction, working with a team of artists and craftspeople. The garden is not just a collection of sculptures; it's a deeply personal expression of her inner world, her joys, and her challenges. Visitors often feel a profound connection to her story as they wander through the park.
Her work is characterized by bold colors, organic forms, and a playful yet profound approach to art. The Tarot Garden, with its 22 larger-than-life figures representing the Major Arcana, invites contemplation on life's journey, destiny, and the human condition. It's a place where art, nature, and spirituality converge, offering a unique and immersive experience for all who visit.
Navigating the Tarot Garden
Each sculpture is a world unto itself, often featuring intricate mosaic details, vibrant colors, and unique architectural elements. Some sculptures, like the 'Empress,' are large enough to walk inside, offering a unique perspective and a chance to interact with the art.
While the garden is an outdoor space, some areas might offer shade from the Mediterranean scrub. It's advisable to bring water, especially during warmer months, and to check the weather forecast before your visit. The overall atmosphere is one of wonder and enchantment, encouraging visitors to slow down and engage with the art on a personal level.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit