Tuscany is a region of Italy known for its natural beauty, its rich history and its wines. Its Renaissance cities and beautiful landscapes have inspired numerous artists and travelers for centuries. But, in Tuscany, there are also charming towns that will take you back to the medieval period and that can be good excursions from Florence. Next, we present you the best towns in tuscany for you to meet on your next trip. Obviously this list is missing sites as incredible as Lucca, Arezzo or Sienabut they are more cities than towns.
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Contents of this article
8 BEST VILLAGES IN TUSCANY
1. San Gimignano, one of the best towns in Tuscany for wine lovers
Located 56 kilometers from Florence, you will find another fascinating city, San Gimignano. This is an incredible place famous for its medieval towers dating back to the 12th century and rising above the Tuscan hills. If you want an impressive view, walk through its labyrinthine cobbled streets and delight in a delicious wine, you cannot miss visiting San Gimignano.
In addition to its historical monuments, San Gimignano is famous for its production of wine and olive oil. Here you will find a large production of red wine, and its well-known white wine, Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The vineyards and wineries on site are a popular attraction for tourists. Besides, there are many shops and restaurants where you can try and buy the best local products.
After the fall of Roman empirethe church took over the city, so you can visit impressive churches such as the Basilica of Sant’Agostino and the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta from the 12th century. With this movement came a steady stream of pilgrims and poets who were quick to praise the beauty of San Gimignano. Undoubtedly one of the best towns in Tuscany!
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2. Montepulciano
Montepulciano is a medieval town created by the the Medici family in the sixteenth century. Perched on top of a hill, you’ll find a spectacular view of the Tuscan countryside. In addition to its natural beauty, the city is also famous for its wines, especially he Noble wine of Montepulcianoone of the most famous in the region.
In addition to its wine, Montepulciano boasts a rich history and culture that is reflected in its impressive architecture. The historic center of the town is full of cobbled streets, Renaissance palaces, churches and beautiful inner courtyards. One of the highlights is the Palazzo Comunale, a beautiful Renaissance building that houses the town hall and an impressive museum.
This is the ideal destination to visit the natural beauty of local and one of the best towns in Tuscany that you can meet.
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3. Pienza
With the aim of creating a perfect city, Pienza was designed by Pope Pius II in 1462. However, despite not being completely complete, it is considered one of the most beautiful and well-designed cities in Tuscany. If you are a fan of time travel, this is the perfect place for you, as seeing the historic center and its unique architecture will take you back to the 15th century.
But Another of the main attractions of Pienza is its cheese, the Pecorino. It is a product made with sheep’s milk and characteristic for its intense and spicy flavor. If you want to try it, just go to one of the local restaurants to taste it in a delicious local dish, or visit one of the cheese shops. that are scattered among the buildings of the city.
In addition, Pienza is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you want to have a complete experience, We recommend you take advantage of its proximity to Montepulciano (18 minutes by car) to visit both cities on the same trip.
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4. Volterra, one of the best towns in Tuscany if you are passionate about history
To continue with this post the best towns in Tuscany, we have to tell you about Volterra. Is about a municipality of 10,000 inhabitants with a long history dating back to Etruscan times. Here you will find many historical monuments, such as the Roman amphitheatre, the Priory palace and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta.
Volterra is located 403 meters above sea level and is undoubtedly one of the municipalities with the most history that you can visit. It is perfect if you want to forget about the car and immerse yourself in the streets and medieval squares with your most comfortable shoes. During your visit, You must visit the Guamacci Etruscan Museum and delight yourself with all the Roman monuments and crafts you will find.
Also, if you plan your trip for the middle of March, the end of October or the beginning of November, you should know that there are local fairs showcasing delicious local products such as cheeses, olive oil, white truffles and chocolates.
5. Cortona
Cortona is a lovely little town perfect for strolling through its winding alleys and its spectacular medieval tower that adorns the whole town. Here you will enjoy a spectacular view of downtown Italia. Also, if you’re a movie fan, you will be able to rent the villa used in the film “Under the Tuscan Sun” which is located on the outskirts of the city.
The city has many historical buildings, such as the Church of San Francesco and the Palazzo Casali. There are also many restaurants and shops where you can buy local products, such as honey and olive oil that are some of the most famous in the region. However, if you want to take a walk through the markets of the city, you will find a mixture of wines and sandwiches of lamprey that will make you want to return as soon as possible.
But without any doubt You cannot miss visiting the Accademia Etrusca. It is a museum distributed over 5 floors inside a 13th century building. Definitely, a place that yes or yes you must visit if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture.
6. Montalcino
Montalcino is one of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany. Like some of its neighboring towns, stands at the top of a hill, creating a super picturesque panorama. As a curiosity, Montalcino produces some of the best wines in Italy, such as Brunello, as well as Rosso di Montalcino and Sant’Antimo.
The town is located about 45 kilometers from Siena, in the heart of the Orcia Valley and its origin dates back to the twelfth century. Get lost in its cobbled streets and stop to taste a good glass of its delicious wines.
But you could not have a complete experience if you forget about the delicious Italian gastronomy. In local restaurants we recommend you try the famous Florentine steakwe are sure that you love it!
7. Castellina in Chianti
Covered with vineyards, olive groves and forests, you will find Castellina in Chianti, a charming town located in the province of Siena. One of the most important sites you can visit here is the Rocca di Castellina, an imposing medieval fortress from the 14th century. Currently, it functions as a museum and is the ideal place to enjoy the spectacular view of Chianti.
In this city you will also find several churches that will surprise you. A clear example of them is the Church of San Salvatore, famous for its beautiful bell tower and 13th century architecture. But more than anything when you visit Castellina in Chianti, you will find yourself in a friendly and peaceful town, perfect for exploring the region.
However, we could not talk about the best towns in Tuscany without forgetting the wines. In this case, you will be able to attend a popular attraction in the municipal wine cellar. Here you will taste the best wines of the region!
8. Pitigliano, one of the best towns in Tuscany
To finish with this post the best towns in Tuscany, we have to mention Pitigliano, or better known as the “little Jerusalem”. This small Tuscan town is located near the Italian coastin the Maremma region. They are The nickname was given due to the Jewish population that has inhabited the area since the 15th century. So one of the places that we recommend you visit is the Jewish town. Here you will find the Jewish Museum of Culture and you will be able to taste some local delicacies.
A peculiarity of this place are the underground caves and tunnels of more than 2000 years old that you can visit. But it is not all that this city has to offer, among its red volcanic stone buildings, you will find monuments, museums and charming statues. You will also be able to walk along the aqueduct and the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul.
Definitely, This is one of the best towns in Tuscany and we are sure you will love it!
LOCATION OF THE BEST VILLAGES IN TUSCANY
In the following map you will find the location of the most beautiful villages in Tuscany.
Source: https://lostraveleros.com/mejores-pueblos-de-la-toscana/
