Excursion Private exclusive visit to the tarots garden tour at Porto Santo Stefano

Discover one of Italy’s most unique artistic landmarks during this exclusive, half-day sightseeing excursion to the Tarot Garden.

Countryside Drive to Capalbio

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately one-hour drive through the rolling landscapes of southern Tuscany’s Maremma region. En route, pass through Mediterranean countryside characterized by olive groves, low hills, and unspoiled natural scenery as you travel toward the Capalbio area, home to the renowned Tarot Garden.

Tarot Garden (Giardino dei Tarocchi)

Upon arrival, guests are welcomed by the Foundation’s host before beginning a privately guided visit of the Tarot Garden, opened exclusively in the morning hours for your group. Created in the second half of the 20th century by internationally acclaimed artist Niki de Saint Phalle, in collaboration with Swiss sculptor Jean Tinguely, the garden represents the artist’s personal interpretation of the 22 Major Arcana of the tarot.

During the guided walking tour, explore a Mediterranean park where monumental sculptures are scattered among winding paths, some flat and others gently uphill. Each work features a steel structure covered in concrete and richly decorated with mirrors, colored glass, and ceramic mosaics that reflect the surrounding landscape. Highlights include The Empress, a sphinx-like figure that also served as the artist’s residence during the construction of the garden, as well as Justice, incorporating a sculpture by Jean Tinguely, the Tree of Life, and other iconic figures such as The Magician, The Devil, and The Sun. One sculpture allows limited interior access, while the remainder of the visit takes place outdoors.

Throughout the visit, the guide provides insight into the artist’s life, inspirations, and creative process, while respecting her wish that guests experience the artworks through their own personal interpretation.

Following the guided visit, enjoy a complimentary coffee or tea with mineral water. Afterward, some free time is made available for photographs and browsing the Foundation boutique, offering accessories and souvenirs inspired by the garden’s distinctive artistic style.

At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the port of Porto Santo Stefano.

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 1.55 miles (about 2.5 kilometres), at times over uneven terrain, pebbled paths, and uphill sections. The walk from the coach parking area to the garden entrance is approximately 500 metres over uneven ground, followed by an uphill walk of approximately 750 metres to reach the main sculptures. There are no stairs, but some paths are steep. Walking is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or guests who utilise a wheelchair. Comfortable clothing and flat, sturdy walking shoes are recommended. As the visit is primarily outdoors, guests should be prepared for weather conditions. Photography and video recording are permitted throughout the site. Guests must be at least six years old to participate on this tour.