San Gimignano
San Gimignano, the Manhattan of the Middle Ages, is renowned for its stunning skyline of medieval towers. This Tuscan hilltop town invites visitors to explore its historic streets, adorned with charming shops selling local crafts and the renowned Vernaccia di San Gimignano wine. Discover a town where history and artisan culture blend seamlessly.
San Gimignano
2/3 hours days
price from €
In this two-hours guided tour, we’ll take you through one of Tuscany’s most fascinating medieval towns: San Gimignano, with its soaring towers and rich historical heritage, is a place where time seems to stand still.
Let’s start at Piazza della Cisterna, the bustling heart of the town, surrounded by impressive buildings and featuring its iconic octagonal well. Here, you will feel the vibrant and picturesque atmosphere that makes San Gimignano so special.
Continuing along Via San Giovanni, the town’s main street, you will find artisanal shops, art galleries, and old workshops. As we walk, we will share the history of San Gimignano, from its Etruscan origins to its medieval heyday when it was a significant stop for pilgrims on the Via Francigena.
Along the way, we will discover some of the most famous towers, like the Torre Grossa, the tallest in the city, and the Torre Rognosa, overlooking Piazza del Duomo. We will discuss how these towers symbolized the power of medieval families and how San Gimignano has retained much of its original appearance despite the passing centuries.
We will wrap up the tour with a stop at the Rocca di Montestaffoli, a fortress that offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. From here, you’ll see the vineyards of Vernaccia and the rolling hills that surround San Gimignano.
San Gimignano is not just about towering medieval structures and picturesque streets; it’s also a hub for artisans who keep the town’s traditional crafts alive. During our tour, we’ll take you to some of the local workshops and boutiques where these skilled craftsmen and craftswomen create unique pieces that reflect the heritage and culture of the area.
As we walk down the cobbled streets, you’ll notice a variety of artisan shops selling everything from hand-painted ceramics and intricate jewelry. These artisans use techniques passed down through generations, ensuring that their products are not only beautiful but also authentic to the region’s traditions.
Our tour wouldn’t be complete without stopping at a gelateria renowned for its award-winning gelato, made with traditional methods and local ingredients. It’s the perfect way to end our exploration of San Gimignano, enjoying a sweet treat while supporting the local artisans who add so much character to this enchanting town.
With this visit, you’ll not only discover the history and architecture of San Gimignano but also connect with the artisans who contribute to the town’s unique identity.