Volterra and San Gimignano: a taste of medieval Tuscany!

Exploring Tuscany’s Hidden Gems: Volterra and San Gimignano Tour

If you’re dreaming of experiencing the slow, scenic beauty of Tuscany without the crowds, this private tour of Volterra and San Gimignano might just be your perfect day out. While many travelers flock to the region’s more famous spots, these two villages offer an authentic slice of medieval Italy, with fewer travelers and plenty of charm.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how customizable it is—since it’s a private tour, you can spend more time exploring what interests you most. Plus, the comfort of riding in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi means your trip stays relaxed and enjoyable. On the flip side, it’s a full-day experience that requires a bit of planning and a willingness to cover some ground, so it’s not ideal if you’re after a laid-back, low-effort outing.

This tour suits those who love history, architecture, or simply want to see a different side of Tuscany beyond the classic Florence or Pisa stops. Families, couples, or groups of friends who enjoy small, personalized experiences will find it especially appealing.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience allows you to focus on what interests you most.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi ensures a stress-free day.
• Visits to two less-touristy villages offer authentic medieval scenery.
• Includes local highlights like an ancient Roman amphitheater and alabaster workshops.
• Ideal for those wanting a balanced mix of history, scenery, and local culture.
• Good value considering the personalized service and unique destinations.

What the Tour Offers in Detail

This tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of Tuscany’s medieval towns and countryside, all in one day. It’s a private experience, meaning only your group will be along, which helps keep the pace relaxed and tailored. It kicks off with convenient pickup options from Florence, Livorno, or Pisa, saving you from navigating unfamiliar public transport.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Roman Amphitheater: A Glimpse into Ancient Rome

Your journey begins with a quick stop at the Roman Amphitheatre. It’s not just an old ruin—this site is still lively, hosting concerts and shows during summer months. We loved the way this spot offers a tangible link to Italy’s past, and the panoramic view from the lookout is perfect for photos. Keep in mind, the entrance fee isn’t included, and with only about 10 minutes here, it’s more of a quick peek rather than a deep dive into Roman history.

Rossi Alabastri Volterra: Artisans at Work

Next, you’ll visit one of the oldest alabaster workshops, Rossi Alabastri Volterra. Here, you can watch artisans craft delicate sculptures and learn about the alabaster-making process in their free demonstration. It’s a short stop, but one that offers a genuine glimpse into local craftsmanship. For those interested in arts and crafts, this is a highlight; it’s also a chance to pick up a special souvenir.

Piazza dei Priori and Historic Center of Volterra

Then it’s time to wander through the heart of Volterra. The Piazza dei Priori is the main square, framed by medieval towers, the Priory Palace, and the cathedral. It’s the same square seen in the film Twilight, making it a fun spot to recognize. You’ll have about an hour here to explore, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. There’s no entrance fee for the square itself, but you might want to budget if you plan to visit museums or climb the towers.

Cross the Chianti Hills

After exploring Volterra, your driver will take you through the Chianti countryside—the iconic rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves. While food and drinks aren’t included, you can opt for a wine tasting or lunch at a local farm, which many guests find to be the highlight. The drive is about an hour and a half, offering plenty of scenic views along the way to savor.

San Gimignano: The Medieval Tower City

Finally, you arrive at San Gimignano, famous for its skyline of medieval towers. It’s a picture-perfect village, and you’ll love wandering its narrow streets and admiring the architecture. Don’t forget to indulge in the best gelato in the main square—locals swear by it. You’ll have about an hour here to explore independently, shop, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

What Travelers Say

The reviews speak volumes about the quality of this tour. Many travelers praise their knowledgeable guides, often mentioning how they enhanced the experience with interesting facts and friendly service. One reviewer shared, “Our guide was very kind, and made our trip so enjoyable,” which underlines how personal attention matters.

Others highlight the stunning views and the authenticity of the villages, with one stating, “We did a brief tour of Volterra and were practically there alone in the beautiful walled city,” emphasizing the quieter, more genuine feel compared to busier tourist spots.

Food and wine lovers especially treasure the chance to visit a local farm for a lunch or wine tasting, often describing these moments as the trip’s “highlight.” The flexibility to include or skip these options makes it adaptable to your interests and budget.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Pricing is around $1,021.75 per group, which might seem steep at first glance, but considering it covers private transportation, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and personalized service, many find it reasonable—especially if you’re traveling with a group. The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, so be prepared for a full day of exploring.

This experience is perfect for most travelers, including those who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and a bit of local flavor. The vehicle is modern, air-conditioned, and equipped with Wi-Fi—important perks for staying connected or just relaxing between stops.

Since it’s a private tour, it’s worth noting that the schedule can be adjusted slightly to suit your pace and interests, making it more than just a cookie-cutter experience.

The Sum Up

If you’re after an intimate, personalized way to see some of Tuscany’s lesser-known medieval towns, this tour offers a thoughtful mix of history, scenery, and local culture. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy exploring at a leisurely pace and value comfort and flexibility.

While it’s a day-long commitment, the payoff is a genuine connection to Tuscany’s timeless charm, away from the crowds. The stops at Volterra and San Gimignano are both scenic and culturally rich, with enough free time to truly soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

For travelers who want a tailored experience that balances sightseeing, scenic drives, and a taste of local craftsmanship, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling with a group and looking for good value for a private, well-organized day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, it’s mainly designed for those interested in history and scenery. Children who enjoy walking and exploring medieval towns may find it enjoyable, but keep in mind it’s a full-day experience with some walking and sightseeing that might not suit very young kids.

Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, you can potentially focus more on the places that interest you most. You might want to spend longer at San Gimignano or skip the alabaster workshop, depending on your preferences—just discuss your wishes with your driver.

Are meals included in the price?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is an option to arrange a lunch or wine tasting at a local farm. Many guests prefer to bring snacks or plan to dine during their free time in San Gimignano.

How long are the stops?
Most stops are between 10 minutes (for quick visits like the alabaster shop) up to an hour for exploring the main squares and villages. This allows for a relaxed pace, but if you’re a slow walker or want to spend more time, you might want to plan accordingly.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll ride in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi, making the journey comfortable and connected. The driver is also your guide, ensuring smooth travel between sites.

Is there a fee for entrance to sites?
Entrance fees to the amphitheater and museums are not included, so you might want to bring some cash or cards if you wish to visit specific attractions or climb towers.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather to fully enjoy the outdoor stops. If canceled due to rain or poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—so it’s flexible in that regard.

This private tour offers a thoughtful, comfortable way to experience Tuscany’s medieval treasures. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of scenic drives, or simply seeking a quieter, more authentic encounter with Italy’s heartland, it’s a trip worth considering.