Travel back in time with Medieval architecture in the Tuscan hills.
San Gimignano is a quaint medieval town located on the Tuscany region of Italy. Famous for its towers and elegant palaces, San Gimignano offers outstanding views of the hills in Tuscany, charming shops, and fantastic photo ops.
This town, known as the Town of Fine Towers, still has fourteen towers standing from its medieval heyday. While the once stunning cityscape full of towers is no more, it’s a miracle the remining fourteen have survived wars, catastrophes, or the ever dreadful urban renewal projects. Thankfully, San Gimignano has also been given the UNESCO World Heritage status which preserves the remining towers.
San Gimignano constitutes a perfect day trip if you are visiting Tuscany – you can stay longer if you want, but one day will give you ample time to visit the most interesting sights.
San Gimignano, Italy. Credit: Carry on Caro
Distance from San Gimignano to other nearby Tuscany towns
- Florence – 55 min (58.3 km)
- Volterra – 36 min (30.0 km)
- Siena – 47 min (41.4 km)
- Pisa – 1 hr 15 min (78.8 km)
Featured tours in San Gimignano
Top things to do in San Gimignano
So what are the most interesting sights? Keep reading to find out.
Climb Torre Grossa, the highest tower in town
View from the Torre Grossa. San Gimignano, Italy. Credit: Carry on Caro
View from the Torre Grossa. San Gimignano, Italy. Credit: Carry on Caro
No visit to San Gimignano would be complete without visiting the Torre Grossa. To get to the top of this world famous landmark and admire the 360° views of the Tuscan countryside, you will have to climb 218 steps. But don’t worry, there are a few landings where you can stop to catch your breath.
The Torre Grossa is located in Piazza del Duomo and as of 2023 a ticket cost 9 euros. Remember to bring a bottle of water, especially if you are visiting during summer as well as comfortable shoes – a must while visiting Italy.
Visit the picturesque Piazza della Cisterna
Piazza della Cisterna is named after the large well that can be found in the square which was built in 1287. Surrounded by houses and medieval towers, this square was used as a market as well as a stage for festivals and tournaments. This is the most beautiful piazza in town so plan to take a few photos and maybe grab something to eat while you enjoy nice views of the square.
Visit the Duomo di San Gimignano
The Duomo di San Gimignano and the Torre Grossa. San Gimignano, Italy. Credit: Carry on Caro
The Duomo di San Gimignano (also called The Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta) is a Roman Catholic collegiate church and minor basilica. Here you can find Renaissance frescoes by artists including Domenico Ghirlandaio, Benozzo Gozzoli, Taddeo di Bartolo, Lippo Memmi and Bartolo di Fredi. It’s worth a quick visit, especially for art lovers.
Stroll the Piazza del Duomo
Piazza del Duomo. San Gimignano, Italy. Credit: Carry on Caro
The Piazza del Duomo is still considered the heart of the town. Here you can some the oldest medieval buildings in the town: the Torre Grossa, the Palazzo Nuovo del Potestà with the Loggia del Comune and the Torri Gemelle dei Salvucci.
Admire the frescoes at the Palazzo del Popolo
The Palazzo del Popolo (OR Palazzo Comunale) was originally built in 1288 and became the seat of the government of San Gimignano in the 14th century. The Palazzo houses the Civil Museum, where you can look at the frescoes that give you a glimpse of the town’s medieval past.
Try the best World’s gelato at Gelateria Dondoli
Visit the award-winning artisan gelato and try the Gelateria’s unusual flavors including Crema di Santa Fina® (cream with saffron and pine nuts), Champelmo® (pink grapefruit and sparkling wine), Dolceamaro® (cream with aromatic herbs) and Vernaccia Sorbet. Gelateria Dondoli is located in the central Piazza della Cisterna in San Gimignano.
We hope you are now inspired to visit this town, which was among our favorites in the region!
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