San Gimignano - Private Historic Walking Tour
Active
2h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
San Gimignano, referred to as the 'Town of Fine Towers,' is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and this walking tour takes you through its medieval heart. Start at Bagnaia Street, where you’ll enjoy views of the ancient defensive walls. Continue along Saint Matthew Street, lined with 13th-century buildings, and explore Rocca Park, offering panoramic views of the town. Admire the art inside the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, then pass by the historic Town Hall. Wander through Cistern Square, rich in medieval monuments, stroll down the atmospheric Saint John Street, and finish with stunning views over the surrounding countryside from the Panoramic Point near the Monument to the Fallen.
Available options
San Gimignano - Private Historic Walking Tour
What's included
Official Tour Guide
Private Guided Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the medieval heart of San Gimignano, starting at Bagnaia Street, where the scenic path takes you along the remnants of the city’s historic defensive walls, offering captivating views of the town’s skyline.
2
Next, stroll through Saint Matthew Street, a charming road lined with 13th-century buildings like the Pesciolini House-Tower, Church of Saint Bartholomew, Chancellery Palace, Salvucci Twin Towers, and the Saint Matthew City Gate, a stunning example of Sienese architecture, transporting you back to the bustling life of the Middle Ages.
3
Continue your walk up to the peaceful Rocca Park, where the ruins of the Rocca Fortress blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings. From this vantage point, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the old town, framed by lush greenery.
4
Discover the artistic beauty hidden inside the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption, where you can admire exquisite frescoes that cover the walls and ceilings, showcasing the brilliant craftsmanship that defined San Gimignano’s rich cultural heritage.
5
Sharing the same square as the cathedral is the impressive Town Hall, a 13th-century structure built in Romanesque style, with the tallest watchtower in the city, symbolizing its political and historical significance.
6
The route then takes you to Cistern Square, the historic heart of San Gimignano. Here, you’ll find a collection of medieval monuments, including Chigi Tower, the Arch of the Becci, Ardinghelli Towers, and Salvestrin House, each steeped in the city’s history. Don’t miss the ancient cistern in the center of the square—perfect for iconic Sorrento souvenir photos.
7
As you continue your walk, explore Saint John Street, the city’s most picturesque thoroughfare. It beautifully blends ancient façades with modern boutiques, restaurants, and artisan shops, making it an ideal place for people-watching and window shopping.
8
At the end of the street, you’ll arrive at the Saint John Gate, one of the most impressive and intact gateways in the city’s medieval walls, evoking the prosperous past of San Gimignano as a major stop for pilgrims on their way to Rome during the Middle Ages.
9
Finally, your journey culminates at the Panoramic Point near the Monument to the Fallen, where you’ll be treated to magnificent views of terrace fields and lush forests stretching out in every direction. Relax at one of the delightful outdoor restaurants nearby, where you can savor local cuisine while taking in the breathtaking natural beauty of San Gimignano.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
At the monumental tree, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.
About San Gimignano
San Gimignano is a stunningly preserved medieval hill town in Tuscany, famous for its towering houses, Vernaccia wine, and saffron. Known as the 'Medieval Manhattan' due to its 14 remaining stone towers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique glimpse into medieval Italian life and architecture.
Top Attractions
Historic Center of San Gimignano
The Historic Center of San Gimignano is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its medieval architecture and towering houses. The town's unique skyline is dominated by 14 remaining towers, a testament to its rich history and cultural significance.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Gelato di Piazza
Gelato di Piazza is a famous gelato shop in San Gimignano, known for its artisanal gelato made with fresh, local ingredients. The shop offers a wide variety of flavors, including traditional and seasonal options.
Food
30 minutes
€3-€5 per scoop
Rocca di Montestaffoli
Rocca di Montestaffoli is a medieval fortress located on a hill overlooking San Gimignano. The fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the town's military history.
Historical
1 hour
€5
Museo d'Arte Sacra
The Museo d'Arte Sacra is a museum dedicated to religious art and artifacts from the Middle Ages. The museum houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and liturgical objects, providing insight into the religious and cultural history of San Gimignano.
Museum
1 hour
€5
Casa Santuccio
Casa Santuccio is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into the daily life of a medieval merchant family in San Gimignano. The museum features period furnishings, artwork, and artifacts, providing a unique perspective on the town's history.
Historical
1 hour
€5
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pici all'Aglione
A traditional Tuscan pasta dish made with hand-rolled pici pasta, garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil. The dish is hearty and flavorful, showcasing the simple yet delicious flavors of Tuscan cuisine.
Main Dish
Vegetarian, contains gluten
Saffron Risotto
A creamy risotto made with saffron, a prized spice in Tuscany. The dish is rich and aromatic, with a distinctive golden color and delicate flavor.
Main Dish
Vegetarian, contains gluten
Vernaccia Wine
A white wine produced in the San Gimignano region, known for its crisp, fresh flavor and golden color. The wine is made from the Vernaccia grape and pairs well with local dishes.
Drink
Contains sulfites
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Horseback riding
Wine tasting
Spa treatments
Picnicking in the countryside
Visiting museums and art galleries
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak tourist season in San Gimignano is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the town is bustling with visitors. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Gimignano is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Florence Airport • 55 km
- Pisa International Airport • 60 km
By train
Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Station
By bus
Poggibonsi, Colle di Val d'Elsa
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in San Gimignano, connecting the town to nearby cities and villages. The service is reliable but can be infrequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Free Now, It Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center
Poggibonsi
Colle di Val d'Elsa
Day trips
Siena
35 km • Half day to full day
Siena is a stunning medieval city in Tuscany, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. The city is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Piazza del Campo, the Siena Cathedral, and the Palazzo Pubblico.
Volterra
20 km • Half day to full day
Volterra is a charming medieval town in Tuscany, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning views. The town is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Volterra Cathedral, the Palazzo dei Priori, and the Roman Theatre.
Monteriggioni
20 km • Half day
Monteriggioni is a picturesque medieval village in Tuscany, known for its well-preserved walls and towers. The village is a great place to explore the region's rich history and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Festivals
Festa di San Giovanni • June 24
Vernaccia Wine Festival • Last weekend of August
San Gimignano Jazz Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit the Torre Grossa for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside
- Try the saffron gelato at Gelateria Dondoli, a world-famous gelato shop in San Gimignano
- Explore the town's medieval towers and walls for a unique perspective on its history and architecture
- Attend the Vernaccia Wine Festival for a celebration of the town's famous white wine
- Visit the Museo d'Arte Sacra for a glimpse into the town's religious and cultural heritage
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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