San Gimignano, Volterra, St Galgano Abbey small group tour

Fall for the charm of Tuscany’s historic towns and iconic sights on this 11.5-hour small group tour led by a knowledgeable multilingual guide. Starting from Piazzale Montelungo, the tour takes you through San Gimignano, Volterra, and the San Galgano Abbey, offering a blend of medieval architecture, artisan craftsmanship, and legendary tales.

With a rating of 4.4/5 based on 7 reviews, this tour provides a well-paced exploration of some of Tuscany’s best-kept secrets. It’s perfect for those interested in medieval history, picturesque landscapes, and unique cultural experiences. The journey covers about 11.5 hours, including travel time on a fully equipped GT coach, making it suitable for curious travelers eager to discover Tuscany’s authentic side.

While the tour includes many highlights, it’s worth noting that wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility are not able to participate comfortably. The tour also emphasizes comfortable shoes and flexible scheduling, with skip-the-line access at key sites. If you enjoy stories told by passionate guides and a scenic drive through Italy’s rolling hills, this experience may be just right.

Key Points

• Visits to three iconic sites: San Gimignano, Volterra, and San Galgano Abbey.
• Duration of 11.5 hours, with transportation included on a GT coach.
• Expert multilingual guide shares insights into the area’s history and legends.
• Includes free time at each location for browsing artisan workshops, tasting gelato, and exploring.
• Highlights include San Gimignano’s medieval towers, Volterra’s alabaster craftsmanship, and the mythical Sword in the Stone at San Galgano Abbey.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

From the Medieval Skyline to Artisan Workshops in San Gimignano

The tour begins at Piazzale Montelungo, where you meet staff wearing fuchsia jackets. From here, a 1.5-hour bus ride delivers you to San Gimignano, often called the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” because of its tower-studded skyline. As you wander the cobbled streets, you’ll find stunning views of the Tuscan hills and the chance to sample the famous local gelato in flavors that go beyond the usual.

San Gimignano’s architecture offers a vivid picture of medieval life, with its high towers and ancient walls. The narrow streets invite exploration, and the atmosphere is lively and authentic. This stop provides ample time for photos, souvenirs, and tasting the regional delicacies.

Exploring Volterra’s Alabaster Artisans and Historic Fortresses

Next, the journey continues with a 1-hour coach ride to Volterra, perched atop a hill with breathtaking panoramic views. This town is renowned for alabaster craftsmanship, with many artisan workshops scattered throughout the historic center. Visitors can browse handmade alabaster artifacts to take home as memorable souvenirs.

Along With artisan browsing, key sites such as the Palace of Priors, the Medici Fortress, and the Etruscan Museum await exploration. This museum is one of the oldest public museums in Europe, offering a glimpse into the ancient Etruscan civilization that once thrived here.

Discovering the Mysteries of San Galgano Abbey

The last major stop is the San Galgano Abbey, about an hour’s drive from Volterra. This 13th-century Cistercian monastery has only walls and ruins remaining, with no roof, exposing the sky above. Its gothic architecture inspires awe, and its open, roofless structure invites visitors to imagine its former grandeur.

For those interested in legends, the nearby Eremo di Montesiepi is a highlight, featuring the real Sword in the Stone. This spot evokes tales of King Arthur and mythic heroism, adding a touch of magic to the visit.

The Scenic Drive and Expert Guidance

Throughout the day, the fully-fitted GT coach provides a smooth ride across Tuscany’s rolling landscapes. The multilingual guide shares stories and insights about each location, enriching the experience. Reviews praise guide knowledge and the scenic nature of the journey, although some note the bumpy bus ride and shorter time at each site to see everything thoroughly.

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Practical Details: Meeting Point, Duration, and Accessibility

The tour departs from Piazzale Montelungo, conveniently located 5-10 minutes walk from Santa Maria Novella Train Station. Look for staff in fuchsia jackets for easy identification. The total duration of 11.5 hours includes bus travel, site visits, and free time.

It is important to note that not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals with limited mobility**. The tour recommends comfortable shoes and reminds travelers that the schedule and order of visits may vary slightly.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of three distinctive sites makes this tour appealing. San Gimignano offers a lively medieval atmosphere, Volterra provides a chance to browse artisan workshops and visit historical landmarks, while San Galgano Abbey invites exploration of romantic ruins and legendary tales.

The small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from the guide. The inclusion of skip-the-line entry at sites and the opportunity to purchase handmade alabaster artifacts adds value.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers a rundown, it also has some limitations. The time at each site can feel brief, especially if you want to dive deep into history or artisan shopping. The bus ride can be bumpy, which may affect comfort. Also, the lack of accessibility for wheelchair users limits options for some visitors.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for adventure seekers who appreciate medieval architecture, artisanal crafts, and mythical legends. It suits those who prefer small group tours with expert guides and are comfortable with moderate walking and bus travel.

Travelers interested in scenic drives, local storytelling, and unique Tuscan towns will find this tour engaging and rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 11.5 hours, including travel time, site visits, and free periods.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the Piazzale Montelungo kiosk, near Santa Maria Novella Train Station.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the GT coach transportation is part of the package, providing a comfortable ride between locations.

What is the guide’s language?
The guide speaks English and shares stories and insights throughout the day.

Are tickets included for the sites?
Yes, the tour includes skip-the-line access to major attractions like San Galgano Abbey and others.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, especially at Volterra, where you can browse artisan workshops and purchase handmade alabaster artifacts.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with reduced mobility, but families comfortable with walking and transportation may enjoy it.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to cobblestone streets and walking at each site.

Is there any food included?
The tour does not include a full meal, but gelato tasting at San Gimignano and local snacks may be part of the experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

This San Gimignano, Volterra, and San Galgano Abbey small group tour offers a well-rounded journey through some of Tuscany’s most captivating sights, combining history, craftsmanship, legends, and scenic landscapes. It’s especially suited for those who want an intimate, guided experience with plenty of opportunities to explore at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby