A charming bed and breakfast in a 15th-century palazzo in the heart of Volterra, with stone-vaulted rooms, exposed medieval walls, and an atmospheric breakfast room. An excellent base for exploring the Etruscan town and the surrounding Val d'Era countryside.
B&B Palazzo Squarcialupi is a bed and breakfast occupying a 15th-century palazzo on Via di Porta all'Arco in Volterra, one of the most strikingly preserved Etruscan and medieval towns in Tuscany. The building's history is palpable in its stone-vaulted interiors, exposed medieval brickwork, and centuries-old structural fabric. The name references the Squarcialupi, a prominent Florentine family associated with the town's Renaissance-era cultural life.
The B&B sits in the historic heart of Volterra, adjacent to the Arco Etrusco di Porta all'Arco — one of Italy's finest surviving Etruscan gateways, dating from the 4th to 3rd centuries BCE. This location places guests within easy walking distance of Volterra's principal monuments, including the Piazza dei Priori (considered the oldest medieval piazza in Tuscany), the Pinacoteca Comunale, the remains of the Roman theatre, and the town's famous alabaster workshops, an artisan tradition that has continued unbroken since antiquity.
Rooms at Palazzo Squarcialupi are individually styled and reflect the building's medieval character, with stone walls, vaulted ceilings, and period furnishings alongside modern comforts including free Wi-Fi. The breakfast room, where the included morning meal is served, reinforces the atmospheric quality of the property with its historic architectural details.
Volterra is perched on a dramatic hilltop at 545 metres above sea level in the province of Pisa, surrounded by deeply eroded clay gullies known locally as balze. The town's position makes it one of the most visually arresting hilltowns in Tuscany, with panoramic views across the Val d'Era and Val di Cecina valleys. The B&B is well situated for walks along the town's medieval walls and for excursions into the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Day trips from Volterra include San Gimignano (29 km northeast), famous for its surviving medieval towers, and Siena (60 km southeast). The Museo Etrusco Guarnacci, five minutes' walk from the property, holds one of the most important Etruscan collections in Italy. The alabaster artisan workshops along Via dei Sarti and nearby streets welcome visitors, offering a direct window into a centuries-old local craft tradition. At rates between €65 and €120 per night with breakfast included, the B&B offers strong value for a characterful stay in one of Tuscany's most historically rich hilltowns.
Amenities
- wifi
- breakfast included
- historic atmosphere
Location
Via di Porta all'Arco, 16, 56048 Volterra PI, Italy
43.4017, 10.8601 View on map
Highlights
- 15th-century palazzo with stone-vaulted rooms and exposed medieval brickwork in central Volterra
- Adjacent to the Arco Etrusco di Porta all'Arco, one of Italy's finest surviving Etruscan gateways
- Breakfast included and served in a historic atmospheric setting
- Walking distance to the Piazza dei Priori, Museo Etrusco Guarnacci, and alabaster artisan workshops
- Panoramic hilltop position above the Val d'Era and Val di Cecina valleys
Tips for visiting
- Volterra restricts most private vehicle access in the historic centre; use the large car parks outside the town walls and walk in
- Visit the Museo Etrusco Guarnacci early in the morning — it is one of Italy's most underrated Etruscan collections and is rarely crowded
- Book dinner reservations in advance during summer; Volterra has a strong restaurant scene but limited total capacity
- Alabaster artisan workshops along Via dei Sarti are worth visiting for handmade souvenirs; prices are fair when purchased direct from craftspeople
- Day-trip to San Gimignano early in the morning to avoid the worst crowds, which peak after 11 am
Accessibility
B&B Palazzo Squarcialupi occupies a 15th-century palazzo in Volterra's medieval hilltop centre. The historic building includes stone floors and stairs between levels. Wheelchair access is likely limited throughout the property; guests with mobility requirements should contact the B&B directly to discuss room options and building access before booking.
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Frequently asked questions
Is breakfast included in the room rate at Palazzo Squarcialupi?
Yes, breakfast is included in the room rate and is served in the historic breakfast room of the palazzo.
How do guests reach Volterra by public transport?
Volterra is served by buses from Colle di Val d'Elsa and Poggibonsi, both of which are on the Florence–Siena rail line. There is no direct train to Volterra; the bus is the most practical public transport option, though a car gives considerably more flexibility.
Are the rooms air-conditioned?
The property lists Wi-Fi as a standard amenity. For specific information about air conditioning in individual rooms, contact the B&B directly before booking, as historic buildings in Tuscany sometimes have varying climate-control provision by room.
Can guests park a car near the B&B?
Volterra's historic centre restricts private vehicle access. Pay car parks are available just outside the medieval walls, and the B&B can advise on the most convenient option for guests arriving by car.