ITALIANO
Less than an hour's drive away, the most fascinating and authentic hamlets and towns in Tuscany
Less than an hour's drive from Rigone in Chianti are some of Tuscany's most fascinating and authentic hamlets and towns, small treasures of history, art and traditions that tell the story of centuries of peasant life, medieval power and Renaissance ingenuity. Each one tells a different aspect of the region: the proud one of fortified cities, the refined one of the cultural centres, the genuine one of the peasant countries. Visiting them, you will experience something that goes beyond a simple excursion. They all differ but they are all united by a timeless charm, representing an ideal itinerary for those staying in Montaione and who want to discover the Tuscany made of small hamlets and towns. Enjoy hilly landscapes, gastronomic excellence, traditions that are still alive and a pace that allows you to savour every moment.
San Gimignano The "Manhattan of the Middle Ages"
Just a few minutes from Montaione, San Gimignano greets visitors with its unmistakable skyline medieval towers rising above the hills. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is a place where time seems to stand still. Walking through the Piazza della Cisterna, the Torre Grossa and the Collegiate Church of Santa Maria Assunta, decorated with fourteenth-century frescoes, you can breathe the power and refinement of the Tuscan cities of the Middle Ages. And don’t forget to stop and taste the famous Vernaccia, the DOCG white wine that comes from these hills. And then of course, the best ice cream in the world, right in Piazza della Cisterna.
Find out more: gelateriadondoli.com
Certaldo Alto The hamlet of Boccaccio
The home of Giovanni Boccaccio, Certaldo Alto is a quiet authentic hamlet, perched on a hill and connected to the modern town by a funicular. Its cobbled streets lead to the Casa del Boccaccio and the Palazzo Pretorio, decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. In summer, the hamlet comes alive with ‘Mercantia’, one of the most famous street theatre festivals in Italy, which transforms every corner into an enchanted stage.
San Miniato Elegance and truffles on the Via Francigena
Lying on a panoramic hill along the Via Francigena, San Miniato is an elegant town rich in history. From the Rocca di Federico II you can look out on the incredible view of the Arno Valley, while the Piazza del Duomo and the medieval streets tells the story of his noble past. San Miniato is famous throughout Italy for its fine white truffle, the protagonist of a market that attracts foodies from all over the world every autumn.
Monteriggioni The hamlet with perfect walls
On the road to Siena you’ll come to Monteriggioni, a perfectly circular fortified village, ringed by walls and towers that look straight out of a chivalric tale. Inside the walls, the central square, small shops and cosy restaurants create an atmosphere from another time. And a walk along the ramparts rewards you with spectacular views over the Sienese countryside.
Colle Val d'Elsa Crystal glass and nature along the river
Less crowded but full of charm, Colle Val d'Elsa is world famous for its crystal glass production. The upper town preserves medieval palaces and suggestive panoramic views, while just outside the centre, the Sentierelsa follows the course of the river in amongst waterfalls, clear pools and wooden walkways. It’s the perfect place to combine culture and nature in a single stroll.
Peccioli Tradition and Contemporary Art
Peccioli is a pleasant discovery: a hill town that combines rural charm with modern artistic installations, the famous ‘Giganti di Peccioli’, transforming it into an open-air museum. Its quiet streets, views of the Valdera and the suggestive Fonte Mazzola Amphitheater, where summer events take place, make it an ideal destination for those looking for authenticity and culture outside the most touristic circuits.
Lari A castle and a legendary pasta
Dominated by a majestic medieval castle, Lari is a quiet, inspiring hamlet. Here we find the headquarters of Pastificio Martelli, which produces an artisanal golden pasta, famous all over the world. Walking through its streets and climbing to the fortress allows you to immerse yourself in the slow and authentic life of the Tuscan countryside.
Vinci In the footsteps of Leonardo
Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, Vinci is Leonardo's birthplace. The Leonardo Museum displays working models of his inventions, while the Castello dei Conti Guidi offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Just outside the centre is Leonardo’s birthplace. You can reach it by simply walking through the fields. It is an ideal destination for families, people who just want to find out more about Leonardo and lovers of art and science.
Montingernoli Tuscany's Ghost Village
The hamlet of Montingegnoli (Radicondoli, Siena), abandoned in the mid-19th century, is a fascinating place for those who love to explore historic sites. Founded in the 12th century, it surprises visitors thanks to its excellent state of preservation, with original buildings and details that tell centuries of history. One of the most characteristic parts is the castle with the circular garden. Some areas can still be visited, offering visitors a quiet yet inspiring atmosphere.
Toiano, Palaia
A hilltop hamlet perched among the Pisan hills, marked by an 11th-century deconsecrated church, a castle with a drawbridge, and a hushed, timeworn village. It is one of FAI’s “Places I Love” (I Luoghi del Cuore), reachable only on foot and set amid open countryside and the area’s distinctive calanchi dramatic clay badlands. A place full of charm and mystery, a real ghost town waiting to be discovered.
Castello di Vignale, Montaione
This 12th-century medieval castle now lies in ruins, yet you can still make out the remains of a mill, bastions, a church and the rectory. Local legends speak of a hidden underground passage leading all the way to Camporena. A place steeped in mystery and ancient tales.