In the heart of Tuscany, San Gimignano is a village famous for its medieval towers rising high against the sky, which earned it the nickname “Medieval Manhattan.” This small town enchants visitors who love history and architecture. Beyond the towers, you can explore centuries of history while strolling along cobblestone streets, visiting ancient churches and charming squares. This incredible Medieval Village is also filled with shops offering local products and Italian souvenirs. A must-see destination for anyone traveling through Tuscany.
History of San Gimignano
San Gimignano, known as the “City of Towers,” is a medieval gem in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. Founded in the 3rd century BC, it became an important stop for pilgrims traveling to Rome along the Via Francigena. Its golden age was during the Middle Ages, when rival families built around 72 towers to show off their power and wealth. Today, only 14 remain, but they still dominate the skyline and tell stories of a past filled with rivalry and prosperity. Nowadays, San Gimignano attracts visitors with its cobblestone streets, Renaissance art, and local Vernaccia wine, offering a true journey back in time.
Where is San Gimignano
San Gimignano is located between Florence and Siena, in the beautiful Tuscan countryside, making it a must-stop for anyone exploring this wonderful region.
Things to Do in San Gimignano
Piazza della Cisterna
This is the main square of San Gimignano, full of historic buildings and its famous medieval cistern. Here, visitors can soak up the city’s atmosphere while enjoying a handcrafted gelato.
Gelateria dell’Olmo and Dondoli
Local gelaterias, including the award-winning Gelateria Dondoli, serve flavors that make each scoop unforgettable. Gelateria dell’Olmo is also a must-try, located in the main square and famous for its artisanal gelato made with fresh seasonal ingredients that highlight the authentic taste of the region. Don’t miss the chance to try them — these really are some of the best gelatos in the world!
Shops
The village is full of shops selling local products such as leather bags, lavender goods, Tuscan truffle-based products, wines, cured meats, ceramics, and many types of handmade crafts. Take some time for shopping — it’s worth it!
Torri Gemelle
The twin towers, built by the Salvucci family, are an extraordinary example of medieval architecture and offer spectacular views of the region.
Palazzo Comunale and Museo Civico
The town hall houses the Civic Museum with important Renaissance artworks. Be sure to climb to the top of the tower for another breathtaking view of the city.
Duomo di San Gimignano
This imposing Duomo is decorated with frescoes that narrate stories from the Bible and the lives of saints.
Montestaffoli Fortress
Continue your journey back in time with a visit to the fortress and enjoy stunning Tuscan landscapes from its walls.
Best Time to Visit San Gimignano
Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit San Gimignano. The mild weather and smaller crowds allow you to enjoy each attraction more peacefully.
How to Get to San Gimignano
By Plane
The nearest airport is in Florence, followed by Pisa. Both serve international and domestic flights.
By Car
Traveling by car offers flexibility, allowing you to enjoy the Tuscan scenery and visit multiple destinations in one day.
If you plan to rent a car, we recommend DiscoverCars, where you can find the best options, check company reviews, and compare prices.
Valuable tips for drivers Driving in Italy: Essential Tips for Car Rental, Tolls, Parking, and ZTL Zones and How to Rent a Car in Italy: Complete Guide for Travelers
By Train
Although San Gimignano doesn’t have its own train station, you can travel to Poggibonsi and from there take a bus or taxi. We recommend Omio for train tickets in Italy, since it allows you to compare schedules and prices from different companies.
By Bus
Buses depart regularly from nearby cities, but always check schedules in advance, as services may be less frequent during the off-season.
A great alternative is to book a guided tour from Florence or Siena. Here are some options:
👉 San Gimignano Tour from Florence
👉 San Gimignano Tour from Siena
Where to Stay in San Gimignano
Choosing the right place to stay in San Gimignano makes all the difference. Staying inside the walls is perfect for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the medieval atmosphere, waking up surrounded by historic towers, stone streets, and lively squares, with easy access to cafés and trattorias. On the other hand, staying just outside the city among vineyards and hills offers agriturismos and country houses with warm hospitality, local cuisine, and breathtaking views. Alternatively, choosing Certaldo or Volterra can be a good option for more affordable rates and easy access to explore Tuscany by car.
We recommend Booking, which offers a wide variety of accommodations and allows you to check user reviews.
Local Wine and Food
San Gimignano is a paradise for food and wine lovers. This incredible Tuscan village delights visitors with local specialties such as “Pappardelle al Cinghiale”, wide pasta with wild boar sauce, or “Risotto ai Funghi Porcini”, a creamy risotto with fresh porcini mushrooms.
Don’t miss the chance to taste the local wines, especially the famous Vernaccia di San Gimignano, the first Italian wine to receive the Controlled Designation of Origin (DOC). This dry white wine has floral and fruity notes and pairs perfectly with Tuscan cheeses like pecorino and artisanal cured meats.
San Gimignano Pass
This pass gives you access to the city’s top attractions, including Torre Grossa, the Civic Museum, the Duomo, and the Museum of Sacred Art.
You can purchase it on the Viva Ticket website. Tickets cost €14 per adult or €11 for ages 6 to 17.
For more Italy travel tips, check out:
The 50 Most Famous Italian Wines
Italian Regional Cuisine: What to Eat in Every Province
Tuscany Travel Guide: Best Places to Visit
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