Things to do
San Gimignano, renowned for its medieval architecture and iconic towers, offers a wealth of activities for visitors. Stroll through the charming streets lined with artisanal shops and traditional trattorias where you can savour authentic Tuscan cuisine or head to a wine tasting of the famous Vernaccia di San Gimignano. But don't forget to look up and admire the towers that make up the town's famous skyline or miss the opportunity to climb Torre Grossa for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. If heights aren't your thing, stay on the ground and explore the historic Piazza del Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo, home to stunning palaces and the majestic Collegiate Church.
The towers
San Gimignano gained its fame through its towers, resulting from a rivalry between two economically powerful families living in the town building better and higher towers to show their economic stability and power. By the end of the Medieval period, this trend had caught on, with every wealthy family building their own tower, resulting in 72 towers total. Although many towers were cut down or destroyed during World War II, 14 remain. Below are a few which draw the most attention from visitors.
Eating and drinking
San Gimignano offers an array of culinary experiences, perfect for food and wine enthusiasts visiting Tuscany. The town boasts numerous trattorias and restaurants where visitors can put their feet up from wandering the streets and going up towers to enjoy traditional Tuscan dishes, like wild boar ragu and ribollita soup. The town is also famed for its white wine Vernaccia di San Gimignano, so why not have a glass while you watch the world go by? Don't forget to visit Gelateria Dondoli, a world-famous spot in the heart of the town, completing your visit to San Gimignano.
