Weekend in Tuscany: 5 medieval hamlets that are worth a visit

Are you planning a weekend getaway? There is always a good reason to choose Tuscany as a destination. Art, fashion, culture and gastronomy but also craftsmanship, magical landscapes to discover and history to discover. This is Tuscany, a region with a thousand faces, one more fascinating than the other.

Today we want to explore one of its most suggestive sides: the medieval hamlets.
We have selected for you 5 of the most beautiful medieval villages that should be included in your wish travel list:

San Gimignano: the medieval jewel that makes you go back in time

Located in the green countryside of the Val d’Elsa, it is an enchanting hamlet that over the centuries has maintained its charm while remaining intact and authentic. Surrounded by thirteenth-century walls, it was declared a World Heritage Site in 1991. Its 14 towers outline the unmistakable profile of the village. Walking through the streets of San Gimignano you will find yourself retracing the steps of history in an atmosphere made of stone buildings and medieval towers. For those who love a good glass, we recommend to taste La Vernaccia di San Gimignano, a white wine with a centuries-old history.

Volterra, 3000 years of history

Located in the province of Pisa, on a hill about 530 meters high, with its 3000 years of history Volterra hides one of the most beautiful historical centers in Italy and a rich artistic, landscape and archaeological heritage. Built in the Etruscan era, the city of Velathri dates back to the 4th century BC: it quickly became one of the twelve most important cities of the Etruscan nation, before being invaded by the Romans and later fell into the hands of the Medici. The traces of the various historical periods are present in every glimpse and every detail of its medieval structure.
The best way to appreciate it is to stroll through its narrow streets enjoying the beautiful Piazza dei Priori with the town hall – the oldest in Tuscany -, the Duomo and the access gates to the city, surrounded by thirteenth-century walls.

Discover the best accomodations near San Gimignano and Volterra on our website.

Montepulciano: the Tuscan village famous worldwide for its wine

If you are in the south of Tuscany, choose to devote some of your time to the beauties that Montepulciano can give.
Located between the Val d’Orcia and the Val di Chiana, it offers breathtaking views that perfectly represent the idea of “Tuscany”: rolling hills, rows of cypresses and sunflower fields. The historic center is a medieval S-shaped village enclosed within three circles of walls. In the architectural heritage of Montepulciano there are remarkable medieval buildings such as the Clock Tower of Pulcinella and the Pozzo dei Grifi.
Its flagship is the wine: the Nobile di Montepulciano wine has made the territory famous all over the world.

Pitigliano: the Little Tuscan Jerusalem

Pitigliano has been listed as the fourth most beautiful village in Italy, and the reason is really clear: it is a pure, beautiful land full of ancient traditions.

Perched on a scenic tuff cliff in the province of Grosseto, it carries on its shoulders an ancient history made by Etruscans and Romans, a history that has left a great legacy to this village. If you love walking, the Etruscan Cave streets really deserve your attention. Going through them will bring you into a unique atmosphere.

Pitigliano is called “Little Jerusalem” since from the end of the 16th century it has hosted a large Jewish community within its walls.

Discover our suggestion to find out the best luxury resort near Pitigliano.

Poppi and its castle: one of the most beautiful villages in Italy

Located in the center of the Casentino, Poppi is one of the most representative Tuscan pearls. Unmistakable for the presence of the imposing castle of the Counts Guidi, located on top of the hill, a beautiful building to visit in every season. Without a doubt, the castle is the most attractive and interesting element of the village. Inside you will find an elegant environment, made even more suggestive and precious by the collection of the Rilliana Library.