A Tuscan hilltop town with 14 preserved medieval towers. Home to the Collegiate Church with frescoes by Ghirlandaio and Gozzoli, and the Della Robbia Museum.
San Gimignano, a small town in Tuscany, is known for its medieval towers that rise above the surrounding countryside. This UNESCO World Heritage site has preserved much of its 13th-century architecture, including 14 of the original 72 towers. As you walk through the narrow streets, you'll come across Piazza della Cisterna with its central well. Inside the Collegiate Church, you can admire 14th-century frescoes depicting biblical scenes. After exploring, you can taste the local Vernaccia wine at one of the town's many wine bars.
Medieval Towers of San Gimignano
The towers of San Gimignano shape the town's appearance. Wealthy families constructed these structures in the 13th century as symbols of power and prestige, with 72 towers originally dotting the skyline. Today, 14 remain standing, creating a distinctive profile visible from miles away. You can climb Torre Grossa, the tallest at 54 meters, for views of the town and surrounding Tuscan hills.
Exploring the Historic Center
You can easily walk through San Gimignano's historic center. Begin at Piazza della Cisterna, a triangular square named after its central well. From here, walk to Piazza del Duomo, where you'll see the Collegiate Church and Palazzo Comunale. The streets between these squares are lined with medieval buildings, many now housing shops, restaurants, and wine bars.
Art and Architecture in San Gimignano
The Collegiate Church has a simple exterior, but inside you'll find walls covered with 14th-century frescoes depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments. Nearby, the Church of Sant'Agostino contains frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli illustrating the life of St. Augustine.
Tasting Vernaccia di San Gimignano
San Gimignano produces Tuscany's only DOCG white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano. Local winemakers have crafted this crisp, dry wine since the 13th century. You can taste it at local wine bars or visit nearby vineyards for tours and tastings. The Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Experience museum presents the wine's history and production process through interactive exhibits.
Local Cuisine and Gelato
While in San Gimignano, try local Tuscan dishes like wild boar ragu or ribollita soup. For dessert, visit Gelateria Dondoli in Piazza della Cisterna. This gelato shop has won multiple championships, and you can taste unique flavors like saffron or Vernaccia wine sorbet.
Getting to San Gimignano
San Gimignano is about an hour's drive from Florence and Siena. If you're driving, park outside the town walls. Several parking lots are available, with P1 Giubileo being the most affordable at €6 for 24 hours. If you're using public transport, take a bus from Florence or Siena to Poggibonsi, then transfer to a local bus to San Gimignano.
Day Trips from San Gimignano
You can use San Gimignano as a base for exploring other Tuscan towns. Nearby Volterra, known for its Etruscan ruins and alabaster crafts, is a 30-minute drive away. The wine region of Chianti is also within reach, with towns like Castellina in Chianti about an hour's drive from San Gimignano.
