Looking for a guide to San Gimignano, Italy? You’re in the right place! This charming Tuscan town offers breathtaking views of vineyards and olive groves rolling across picturesque hills.
With its iconic medieval towers and incredible local cuisine, San Gimignano has so much to offer. In this guide, you’ll find tips on what to see, where to eat, and how to really soak up the town’s unique vibe.
Plus, I’ve added practical tips from firsthand experience on getting there, the best times to visit, and other useful info to make your trip smooth.
Ready to explore the best of San Gimignano? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Introduction to the Guide to San Gimignano
San Gimignano, located on the old trade route between Siena and Florence, became famous for its well-preserved medieval towers, many from the 12th century.
These towers were originally built as defenses during the Guelphs and Ghibellines‘ fierce rivalry, and another theory is they were erected by wealthy textile merchants in the city’s textile boom.
Interestingly, these towers also protected the secret of a rare yellow dye made from a special type of saffron, adding to the town’s historical charm.
While San Gimignano once had around 70 towers, today only 14 remain, reflecting the town’s rich history and the passage of time.
Best Things to Do in San Gimignano
Piazza della Cisterna
One of the best things to do in San Gimignano is visiting Piazza della Cisterna. This charming square is a central highlight of the city, with its unique triangular shape that really stands out.
Named after the 13th-century well in its center—the cisterna—which was once vital for the city’s water supply, the square is surrounded by historical buildings like the 13th-century Salvestrini house and the impressive Palazzo Tortoli.
You can’t miss the striking towers of Torre del Diavollo and Ardinghelli that frame the skyline and add to the square’s charm.
Plus, Piazza della Cisterna is a great spot for grabbing a bite or a drink, and it’s known for some of the best gelato places in the world.
Piazza del Duomo
No guide to San Gimignano would be complete without highlighting Piazza del Duomo, located just northwest of Piazza della Cisterna.
On the eastern side of this square, you’ll see the impressive Palazzo Podesta, a 13th-century former town hall known for its expansive loggia and the towering Rognosa tower, which rises over 50 meters into the sky.
In addition to the medieval towers and historic palaces, Piazza del Duomo is home to the grand facade of the Collegiata di Santi Maria Assunta.
Dating back to the 12th century and later expanded by Giuliano da Maiano, this cathedral is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful frescoes depicting stories from the New and Old Testaments, created by famous 14th-century Sienese artists. Notably, the southern aisle features exquisite paintings of Christ’s life by Barna da Siena.
As you climb the broad stone stairs to the collegiate church, you’ll appreciate the site’s historical significance. Like the rest of the city’s historic core, the church is proudly listed on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List.
Practical Information
The cathedral is open for visits during the following hours:
From April 1 to October 31:
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:30 PM – 7:30 PM
From November 1 to March 31:
- Monday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM
Entry ticket costs €5. For more details, visit the official website.
Palazzo del Popolo and Torre Grossa
Another top spot on your list of things to do in San Gimignano is the stunning 12th-century Palazzo Del Popolo, right next to the collegiate church in Piazza del Duomo.
Also known as the Palazzo Comunale or Municipal Palace, this historic building is the main seat of local government and is famous for its impressive 54-meter Torre Grossa.
Climbing to the top of this tower rewards you with incredible views of the city and its surroundings—just be ready to tackle over 200 stairs!
While the ground floor of Palazzo Del Popolo is used for city administration, the upper floors house the Museo Civico, featuring amazing works from Florentine and Sienese artists.
Don’t miss the Grand City Chamber on the first floor, also called Dante’s Hall after Dante Alighieri’s visit in 1300. Here, you can see the remarkable Maestà by Lippo Memmi and some fascinating paintings of hunting scenes.
Practical Information
During the season (April 1 – October 31), the Museo Civico is open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM. A ticket, which grants access to the museum and the tower for two days, costs 9 euros for adults and 7 euros for children and seniors.
Guide to San Gimignano: Where to Eat?
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Osteria Quattro Gatti
If you’re looking for a great place to eat in San Gimignano, check out Osteria Quattro Gatti, located on a charming side street off Via Quercecchio.
It’s not just the fantastic Tuscan food that makes this spot special—it’s also the peaceful terrace where you can enjoy your meal under the shade of trees.
Their menu features delicious regional dishes like beef tagliata with truffles, rabbit in white wine with olives, and the famous Florentine steak (bistecca alla Fiorentina). Main courses usually cost between 15 and 40 euros.
When I visited, I tried the classic pasta with fresh truffles and some incredibly flavorful ravioli with spinach in saffron sauce. With a side of pecorino cheese and a glass of local wine, it was an unforgettable Italian meal.
I definitely recommend this place for an authentic Tuscan dining experience in San Gimignano.
Practical Information
Osteria Quattro Gatti is located at Via di Quercecchio, 9. It’s open from Friday to Thursday from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 6:30 PM to 10:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Sundays.
Gelateria Dondoli
While you’re in San Gimignano, you’ve got to try the world-famous gelato at Gelateria Dondoli on Piazza della Cisterna. Trust me, you’ll want to go back more than once!
These gelatos are practically legendary, and the long lines outside prove it. It’s all thanks to the award-winning maestro Sergio, who has created some seriously amazing and unique flavors like:
- Crema di Santa Fina (gelato with saffron and pine nuts)
- Champelmo (sorbet with pink grapefruit and sparkling wine)
- Dolceamaro (vanilla gelato with aromatic herbs)
- Vernaccia Sorbet (sorbet with Vernaccia di San Gimignano, an old Italian white wine)
All the gelato is made with top-notch ingredients, mostly local, including organic milk, fruits, and saffron grown in the region for centuries. No wonder it tastes so exceptional!
Prices are pretty reasonable: €3.50 for two flavors, €5.00 for three, €6.00 for four, and €7.00 for five.
We couldn’t resist and always left the gelato shop with four scoops each time. After all, how often do we get the chance to try the best gelato in the world?
Practical Information
Gelateria Dondoli is located at Piazza della Cisterna, 4. It’s open daily from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Il Ceppo Toscano
For those craving the ultimate regional treat, the famous Florentine steak, a visit to the hidden gem Il Ceppo Toscano is a must.
This classic Tuscan dish, known as bistecca alla Fiorentina, features a thick cut of tender beef, usually from native breeds like Chianina or Maremmana.
Weighing about one and a half kilograms (about 3.3 pounds), it’s grilled over a wood-burning fire to achieve a succulent, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
But be prepared for a splurge—my half-kilo portion (about 1.1 pounds), bone included, cost around 75 euros. To top it off, I couldn’t resist the classic tiramisu, making for a perfect end to an unforgettable meal!
Practical Information
Il Ceppo Toscano is located at Via delle Romite, 13. It is open from Friday to Thursday, with hours from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM and 7:00 PM to 9:30 PM. The restaurant is closed on Mondays.
Osteria San Giovanni
While exploring the historic center of San Gimignano, be sure to check out the Osteria on Via San Giovanni.
Some tables are set up outside right on the historic street, creating a unique vibe, especially in the evening. What sets this place apart is its excellent service and traditional Tuscan dishes.
Try the fettuccini with truffles, the famous ribollita (bean and cabbage soup), or grilled lamb in pea sauce. For starters, I enjoyed beef carpaccio and a platter of meats and cheeses, followed by saffron risotto as the main course.
Everything was delicious, and the total came to 66 euros. It’s a must-visit for a memorable meal in San Gimignano!
Practical Information
Osteria San Giovanni is located at Via S. Giovanni, 6. It is open from Friday to Thursday, with hours from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The restaurant is closed on Tuesdays.
Spizzicheria Le Chicche Toscane
When you’re in San Gimignano, you’ve got to check out Spizzicheria Le Chicche Toscane. This cozy place to eat serves up tasty, simple dishes and snacks at great prices. Plus, you can sip on some excellent local wine.
The vibe here is really relaxed, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back evening with good food and drinks. Dishes cost between 20 and 30 euros.
Definitely try the bruschetta with burrata and tomatoes and the mushroom ravioli—they’re fantastic! You can also dig into pasta like pappardelle with ragù, penne with pesto, and lasagna. For dessert, the tiramisu is a must-try.
Practical Information
Spizzicheria Le Chicche Toscane is located at Via S. Martino, 5. It’s open daily except Tuesdays. On weekdays, from Friday to Thursday, you can visit from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
RiccaPizza
If you miss the restaurant’s hours, don’t worry—head over to Ricca Pizza for a tasty slice of crispy pizza.
They’re open every day from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM, so it’s a handy spot for a quick bite. You can get a big slice to go or enjoy it at one of their bar tables for just 3 euros.
If you love affordable, delicious Italian pizza, this place is a must-try!
Practical Information
Ricca Pizza is located at Via S. Giovanni, 94. It’s open daily from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Guide to San Gimignano: Palagetto Winery
No trip to San Gimignano is complete without a visit to a local winery. If you’re around, definitely swing by Azienda Agricola Palagetto for a wine tasting.
This family-run winery has been around for generations and offers a great selection of wines like Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vernaccia di San Gimignano. You can also try their homemade olive oil.
They offer various tasting options, including a light lunch for €37. This includes tasting four different wines, a platter of Tuscan meats and cheeses, bruschetta, a main course, and for dessert, Cantucci with Vin Santo del Chianti.
It’s a fantastic way to enjoy local specialties and get a taste of Tuscan winemaking and olive oil production.
Practical Information
Azienda Agricola Palagetto is located at Via Racciano, 10 and is open daily from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Reservations are recommended.
How to Get to San Gimignano?
The best way to get to San Gimignano is to take a flight to one of the closest airports in Italy. Here’s how to do it:
From the USA:
- Book a flight to Florence Airport (FLR) or Pisa International Airport (PSA), which are the closest major airports to San Gimignano. Flights from the East Coast typically take 8-9 hours, while from the West Coast it’s about 11-13 hours.
- If flying into a larger Italian city like Rome or Milan, take a connecting flight to Florence or Pisa. These domestic flights usually last about 1 hour.
From Europe:
- If you’re already in Europe, you can fly directly to Florence or Pisa from many major European cities. Flight times range from 1-3 hours depending on your departure point.
- Alternatively, you can travel by train to Florence from other parts of Italy. For example, Rome to Florence takes about 1.5 hours by high-speed train, while Milan to Florence is about 2 hours.
After you land, renting a car is the easiest way to reach San Gimignano. The drive from Florence takes about 1 hour, and from Pisa, it’s around 1.5 hours.
Keep in mind that San Gimignano is a small town, and the historic center is pedestrian-only. If you’re driving, you’ll need to park outside the city walls, which may add an extra 10-15 minutes of walking to reach the town center.
Guide to San Gimignano: When to Visit
The best times to visit San Gimignano are in spring (April to June) and fall (September to November).
The weather is pleasant, with temperatures between 15°C (59°F) and 25°C (77°F) and occasional light showers that won’t spoil your plans. Plus, there are fewer tourists, which usually means better rates on accommodations.
Summer (July to August) offers warm, sunny weather with temperatures hitting 30°C (86°F), but it’s also the busiest time of year, with higher prices and more tourists.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 10°C (50°F) and more frequent rain.
Guide to San Gimignano: Where to Stay?
If you’re after a cozy, authentic Tuscan village vibe, Villa Podere Sant’Elena is the spot for you. Just fifteen minutes southwest of San Gimignano, it’s set in Chianti’s beautiful countryside, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves.
This charming place offers comfy rooms and a pool with breathtaking views of San Gimignano.
Barbara and Marisa, the lovely owners, really make you feel at home. They serve a tasty breakfast each morning with local treats like cheese, cured meats, frittata, panini, homemade preserves, and top-notch extra virgin olive oil.
And you’ll get unlimited coffee and fresh pastries from Gianni’s bakery (Barbara’s husband) in town. What more could you want?
Practical Tips
- Visit outside peak season: Avoid crowds and high prices.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The town has steep, cobbled streets and many stairs, so comfy footwear is essential.
- Buy the San Gimignano Pass: This combined ticket gives you access to major attractions at a good price: €13 for adults and €10 for children and seniors.
- Bring a water bottle: There are drinking water fountains around San Gimignano, which saves on drinks and is eco-friendly.
- Rent a bike or scooter: It’s a great way to explore the surrounding hills and Tuscan towns.
- Remember the siesta: Many shops and attractions close from 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM. Use this time for lunch or a rest.
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Guide to San Gimignano: Summary
San Gimignano is the perfect spot for a Tuscan getaway.
With its stunning landmarks, delicious cuisine, and breathtaking views, you’ll surely be impressed. Whether you’re planning a short trip or a longer stay, San Gimignano will captivate you.
I hope this guide to San Gimignano has been helpful. If so, share it with your friends! And if you have your own recommendations, leave them below so others can benefit from your tips!
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I can’t wait to get out and travel more! and Tuscany is one of those places I’ve always wanted to explore more, so thanks for the inspo!
Katie | katieemmabeauty.com
I’ve visited Tuscany just recently but loved it from the first sight!
I cannot believe I have never heard about San Gimignano before reading your article! It’s super interesting to discover it with you! And after seeing all of this yummy Italian food I am hungry 😀
San Gimignano is a true hidden gem! Italian food is absolutely amazing. I love the fact that it is simple combination of superfine and fresh ingredients. That is the essence of great cousine for me. Even totally different – in this respect (fresh and simple) it reminds me of Thai cuisine.
I’ll admit I came here for the food. I heard there was ice cream?! Tuscany looks just beautiful but the food looks next level amazing. That gelato – I’m definitely going to have 6 scoops if I go.
This looks like a beautiful part of Tuscany to visit! I’m definitely going to add it to my itinerary when I go back to Italy.
You brought back such wonderful memories! It’s been 16 years since I visited San Giminagno. I remember it being such a quiet and quaint town and so unique for its high towers. Would love to go back and try some of the restaurants as they sound delicious!
This was such a great read! I only spent a few hours in San Gimigiano, but now I feel like I need to go back and stay for a few days!