San  Gimignano

Latest update: 22 August 2024
By Dion Protani
The medieval town of San Gimignano is located in the province of Siena. Known as the "Medieval Manhattan," it is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including its iconic tower houses of differing sizes.

​With a population of around 7,000, San Gimignano attracts visitors from around the world who come to admire its historic city centre, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town also offers breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside and is renowned for its local Vernaccia wine production.
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San Gimignano: the Medieval Manhattan
San Gimignano, often referred to as the "Medieval Manhattan" for its towering skyline of well-preserved medieval towers, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its charming streets lined with ancient buildings, churches, and artisan shops. Marvel at the 14 remaining towers that once symbolized the wealth and power of noble families.

​Visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta to admire its stunning frescoes. Sample the local Vernaccia wine and artisanal gelato while taking in panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. Nearby, explore the rolling hills of the Chianti region or visit the historic cities of Florence and Siena. With its rich history, architecture, and breathtaking vistas, San Gimignano is a must-visit destination in Tuscany.
Comune di San Gimignano
Province: Siena

​​Region: Tuscany

Population: 7,493 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024)

​​Total size: 138 km²​​

Elevation: 324 metres

Highlights: Collegiata di Santa Maria Assunta, medieval towers

Close by: Colle di Val d'Elsa, Certaldo, Volterra, Val d'Elsa

Recommended accommodation: Hotel Bel Soggiorno
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historic Centre of San Gimignano - ​Year: 1990
Awarded the Bandiera Arancione (Orange Flag)

1 of 24 in Tuscany listed by Touring Club Italiano
What are the best things to do in San Gimignano?
  • Medieval Towers: Explore the iconic medieval towers of San Gimignano, which once numbered 72 but now retain 14, earning the town its nickname "Medieval Manhattan." Visitors can climb some towers for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside.
  • Piazza della Cisterna: Visit the picturesque Piazza della Cisterna, the central square of San Gimignano, lined with medieval buildings, cafes, and shops. Visitors can admire the well-preserved architecture and the central cistern after which the square is named.
  • San Gimignano Cathedral (Duomo di San Gimignano): Admire the stunning San Gimignano Cathedral, dedicated to Santa Maria Assunta, renowned for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, frescoes, and beautiful artworks. Visitors can also visit the adjacent Museum of Sacred Art.
  • Vernaccia Wine Tasting: Indulge in a wine tasting experience featuring Vernaccia, the local white wine produced in the surrounding hills. Visitors can sample wines at local wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy scenic vineyard views.
  • Gelato Tasting: Savour delicious gelato from the numerous gelaterias in San Gimignano, known for their wide variety of flavors made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Visitors can sample classic flavors as well as unique creations inspired by Tuscan cuisine.
  • Artisanal Shops: Explore the artisanal shops and boutiques of San Gimignano, offering locally crafted goods such as ceramics, leather goods, olive oil, and saffron. Visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts while supporting local artisans and businesses.
  • Walking Tours: Join guided walking tours of San Gimignano's historic center, led by knowledgeable local guides who provide insights into the town's history, architecture, and culture. Tours often include visits to landmarks such as the Palazzo del Popolo and the Church of Sant'Agostino.
Where should I eat in San Gimignano?
  • Osteria delle Catene: Located in the heart of San Gimignano, Osteria delle Catene offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere with a menu featuring traditional Tuscan dishes prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Their pasta dishes and Florentine steak are highly recommended.
  • Ristorante Cum Quibus: Situated in a historic building overlooking Piazza della Cisterna, Ristorante Cum Quibus offers a fine dining experience with a focus on Tuscan cuisine and innovative twists. Their tasting menu featuring seasonal ingredients is a highlight.
  • Ristorante La Mangatoia: This charming restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and delicious Tuscan dishes. Located near Piazza del Duomo, La Mangatoia offers classic dishes like ribollita, pici pasta, and wild boar stew in a cozy setting.
  • Ristorante Dorando: Set in a historic building with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, Ristorante Dorando specializes in traditional Tuscan fare with a creative flair. Their menu includes homemade pasta, grilled meats, and a selection of local wines.
  • Taverna di Cecco: Nestled in a medieval alley, Taverna di Cecco is a hidden gem known for its rustic ambiance and authentic Tuscan dishes. Their menu features specialties such as pappardelle al cinghiale (wild boar pasta) and ribollita, along with a great selection of wines.

San  Gimignano  Gallery

What are the best places to stay in San Gimignano?
  • Hotel Leon Bianco: Situated in a beautifully restored medieval building in the heart of San Gimignano's historic center, Hotel Leon Bianco offers elegant rooms with antique furnishings and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from the hotel's rooftop terrace.
  • Relais Santa Chiara Hotel: Located just outside the walls of San Gimignano, Relais Santa Chiara Hotel offers luxurious accommodations in a tranquil setting. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, a swimming pool surrounded by gardens, and a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
  • La Cisterna Hotel: Housed in a historic building overlooking San Gimignano's main square, Piazza della Cisterna, La Cisterna Hotel offers comfortable rooms with views of the town and surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the hotel's charming courtyard.
  • Hotel Bel Soggiorno: Set in a peaceful location just a short walk from San Gimignano's historic center, Hotel Bel Soggiorno offers comfortable accommodations with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. The hotel features a swimming pool, garden terrace, and restaurant serving local specialties.
  • Villa Ducci: Situated in the countryside surrounding San Gimignano, Villa Ducci offers rustic-chic accommodations in a restored farmhouse. Guests can stay in rooms or apartments overlooking the vineyards and olive groves, relax by the swimming pool, and sample wines produced on-site.
What's the closest airport to San Gimignano?
Florence Airport (Peretola) (FLR):

  • Located in Florence, approximately 53 kilometers north of San Gimignano.
  • Florence Airport serves domestic and international flights.
  • From the airport, you can reach San Gimignano by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to San Gimignano takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Florence Santa Maria Novella Train Station and then catch a train to Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Train Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach San Gimignano.

Pisa International Airport (Galileo Galilei Airport) (PSA):
​
  • Located in Pisa, approximately 85 kilometers west of San Gimignano.
  • Pisa Airport is well-connected with domestic and international flights.
  • From the airport, you can reach San Gimignano by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to San Gimignano takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Pisa Centrale Train Station and then catch a train to Empoli Train Station. From Empoli, you can transfer to a train heading to Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Train Station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to reach San Gimignano.
What's the closest train station to San Gimignano?
Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Train Station:

  • Located approximately 13 kilometers southeast of San Gimignano.
  • Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Train Station is served by regional and Intercity trains.
  • From the train station, you can take a bus or taxi to reach San Gimignano. The journey takes around 20 minutes by bus or taxi.
What private transfer options are there for San Gimignano?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to San Gimignano takes around 55 minutes. 

If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
​
  • Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
  • Arrival date
  • Arrival time
  • Number of passengers
  • Destination (either town or specific hotel) 
​
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car to visit San Gimignano?
  • Nearby Cities: Since San Gimignano is located near larger cities like Siena and Florence, you can consider renting a car from one of the rental agencies in these cities. Siena and Florence have more rental options available, including at the train stations, airports, and in the city centers.
  • Regional Airports: You could also consider looking for rental options at airports such as Florence Airport (Peretola) or Pisa Airport (Galileo Galilei). Although they are further away from San Gimignano, some rental agencies may offer shuttle services to pick up your rental car from the airport.
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