Tuscany’s hidden gems: San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey

Discover Tuscany’s Hidden Gems: San Gimignano, Volterra, and St Galgano Abbey

If you’re dreaming of a day away from Florence’s bustling streets to see some of Tuscany’s lesser-known wonders, this tour might be just what you’re after. It promises visits to three of the region’s most intriguing towns—San Gimignano, Volterra, and St Galgano Abbey—all in one day. From medieval towers to ancient ruins, it offers a taste of Tuscany’s diverse charm without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances guided insights with free time, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace. Plus, the fact that it covers three distinct towns makes it a good value for those wanting a broad snapshot of the region’s history and landscape. One thing to keep in mind is the full-day duration—it’s a long stretch, so comfortable shoes and energy are a must.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy history, scenic drives, and small-group experiences. If you’re after something relaxed yet informative, and want to see a few different spots in one go, this could be a perfect fit. It’s less ideal if you prefer more time in each location or are looking for a very leisurely pace, but overall, it offers a solid overview of Tuscany’s hidden corners.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• All-in-one day trip visiting three unique Tuscan towns
• Small group experience with an expert guide
• Free time at each stop to explore independently
• Roundtrip transportation included, saving hassle
• Entrance fee included for St Galgano Abbey
• Duration of about 11.5 hours makes for an intensive but rewarding day

A Practical Look at the Tour Experience

This tour sets out early from Florence, leaving around 8:00 am from Piazzale Montelungo, a spot close enough to Santa Maria Novella station for convenience. The coach is well-equipped for a comfortable ride, and with a max group size of 25, it’s intimate enough to feel personalized. Throughout the day, your guide will share facts and stories, helping you connect with the places you visit.

The Journey from Florence to San Gimignano

The first hour-long drive whizzes by thanks to the guide’s commentary, which is full of interesting tidbits about what’s ahead. San Gimignano is famously called the “town of towers,” and it lives up to that nickname. Its skyline of medieval towers is a striking sight from afar—and even more captivating up close.

Once you arrive, you’ll walk through the city gates and be led past a panoramic viewpoint of the rolling Tuscan hills. Your guide will point out details about the town’s history and architecture, setting the scene for your free time. Expect to have about an hour to wander independently, whether you want to stroll the narrow alleyways, visit the Duomo, or climb the tallest tower for an unbeatable view.

Exploring Piazza della Cisterna

Your free time includes a visit to Piazza della Cisterna, a triangular medieval square surrounded by houses and towers. This lively spot is perfect for soaking up the atmosphere, snapping photos, or just sitting on a bench and watching the world go by. Some reviewers mentioned that the square is dotted with visible medieval towers, adding to the sense of stepping back in time.

A quick stop at Gelateria Dondoli, one of Italy’s most renowned gelato shops, is another highlight. It’s the perfect place to indulge in some well-earned ice cream, with flavors that are as beautiful to look at as they are delicious to taste. Expect to spend about 15 minutes here, which many travelers say is worth every scoop.

The Drive Through Tuscany’s Heartland

After a sweet break, you board the coach again for the scenic one-hour drive to San Galgano Abbey. The landscape shifts from charming town views to the quintessential Tuscan countryside—cypress-lined roads, vineyards, and rolling hills. The guide’s commentary continues, enriching your understanding of the region’s agricultural and historical significance.

The Mystique of San Galgano Abbey

The highlight here is the stunning St Galgano Abbey, a Gothic-style monastery from the 13th century. What makes this site special is its roofless yet remarkably preserved structure, which creates a dramatic and almost surreal atmosphere. The abbey, surrounded by cypress trees and olive groves, offers a peaceful contrast to the lively towns earlier in the day.

Your entrance fee to the abbey is included, so you can explore freely. Many guests find this site to be a highlight for its photogenic quality and the sense of stepping into a scene from history.

Next Stop: Volterra

The coach then takes you on a 75-minute journey to Volterra, a mountain-top city with roots tracing back to the Etruscans. The town’s walls and steep streets exude medieval charm, and it’s a fitting place to end this whirlwind tour. Here, you’ll visit Piazza dei Priori, the main square, a classic example of a Tuscan medieval gathering space.

Tourists often comment on how Volterra’s layered history—from Etruscan to Roman to Medieval—gives it a unique sense of depth. You’ll spend about 30 minutes in the square, soaking in the ambiance before heading to the next site.

Final Act: Wrapping Up in Tuscany

From Volterra, it’s another hour and 15-minute drive back to Florence, with the bus ride giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights. The last two hours are relaxed, and your guide will handle the logistics so you can simply enjoy the scenery.

What We Think of the Value and Overall Experience

At $160.18 per person, this tour offers decent value, especially considering it includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance to the abbey. It’s a full day, but the pace is lively and packed with highlights. The small group size means you’re likely to get more personalized attention, which many reviews point out as a big plus.

Guests love how well-paced the day is, with plenty of free time to explore each location. Reviewers praised the guides for their expertise and friendly manner, and several mentioned feeling safe and well-informed throughout the trip. For instance, one reviewer noted that Vlad, the driver, made them feel secure, and Roberto, the guide, was both friendly and knowledgeable.

The tour’s main strength is its diversity. You get to see a medieval tower town, an iconic abbey, and a mountain-top Etruscan city—all in one day. It’s a whirlwind, but that’s part of the appeal if you want a broad snapshot of Tuscany’s varied heritage and landscape.

Downsides to Consider

The main downside is the full-day commitment—11.5 hours can be tiring, especially if you prefer a more leisurely pace or have mobility concerns. The itinerary can also be subject to change, depending on the day’s circumstances, which might affect your experience. Also, food and drink are not included, so budget accordingly if you want to dine at your own expense during free periods.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see a lot in a short amount of time, especially if they’re interested in medieval towns and scenic drives. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a full day on their feet and walking around. History buffs, photography enthusiasts, or anyone looking to gain a broad sense of Tuscany’s charm will find this tour rewarding.

If your goal is to spend more time wandering in each town or focus on specific interests like food or art, you might prefer a more specialized or slower-paced experience. But for a solid overview that’s hassle-free and engaging, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, roundtrip coach transportation from Florence to all three destinations is included, making the day stress-free.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 11 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time and free periods at each stop.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, the entrance to San Galgano Abbey is included in the tour price. Other sites do not require additional tickets.

How much free time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have about an hour in San Gimignano, including a short visit to the square and gelato break; roughly 30 minutes in Volterra, and around an hour at San Galgano Abbey.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the moderate physical effort and interest in history make it suitable for most travelers. Just be prepared for a long day on your feet.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour’s order may vary, and while it’s designed as a guided experience, you’ll have free time at each stop to explore on your own.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces. Dress appropriately for the weather, as much of the tour is outdoors.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking in historic towns with uneven streets and some uphill sections, so it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges.

What’s the best part of this tour?
Many guests highlight the stunning views, the knowledgeable guides, and the chance to see diverse Tuscan landscapes and architecture—all in one day.

To sum it up, this tour offers a comprehensive, well-organized way to experience some of Tuscany’s lesser-known treasures. It balances guided storytelling with free exploration, giving you a personal touch while covering a lot of ground. Perfect for travelers eager to see a variety of medieval towns and historic sites without the hassle of planning each detail. If you’re after a day filled with scenery, history, and authentic Tuscan charm, this could be just the right adventure for you.