Today’s adventure took us to the walled city of San Gimignano which sits majestically atop a hill, seemingly protecting the beautiful Tuscan country side. This strategic location was very coveted by conquering armies over the centuries, so many battles were fought for control. San Gimignano is noted mainly for its medieval towers. Only 14 towers remain of the original seventy, but the 13th century structures are in very good shape and house some original frescos that have withstood the test of time rather well.
There are roughly only 700 full-time residents, but the city abounds with small restaurants and gift shops. One of these is a gelato shop that won ‘best in taste’ two years running and whose owner is now a judge in this important competition. Walk through the preserved town square, the Piazza della Cisterna and visit the Palazzo del Popolo, a 13th century town hall.
It is a considerable long drive from Rome or Florence, so we suggest spending the night if you have the time, or one full day, but don’t miss this Tuscan jewel.
Italian culture, cuisine, and history make it one of the world’s most beloved destinations. Our advisors’ Best Food Cities in Italy guide captures the essence of authentic Italian travel.
Planning Your Next Trip with Atlas Travel Center
At Atlas Travel Center, we’ve spent over 35 years helping travelers turn ideas like the one in this post into fully realized journeys. Whether you’re reading this as inspiration for a trip you’re already planning or as the first seed of a travel dream, our advisors are here to take it from concept to confirmation — handling every detail along the way.
What sets Atlas apart isn’t just our longevity in the business — it’s the depth of expertise we bring to every booking. Our agents are specialists, not generalists. Many have personal experience at the destinations they recommend, onboard the ships they book, and with the tour operators they partner with. When you work with an Atlas advisor, you’re getting counsel grounded in real experience, not just what’s on a website.
Why Work with a Travel Advisor in the Age of Online Booking?
Online booking tools have made it easier than ever to assemble a trip — and also easier than ever to make an expensive mistake. The lowest price on a comparison site often omits a resort fee, books a room category you wouldn’t choose if you saw the photos, or locks you into a cancellation policy that offers no flexibility. Our advisors know the inventory, the fine print, and the suppliers well enough to navigate all of it on your behalf.
More importantly, when something goes wrong — a flight cancels, a ship changes its itinerary, a resort overbooks — a travel advisor is the difference between hours on hold with an 800 number and a quick call to someone who knows exactly who to call. We’ve been solving those problems for clients since 1987, and we’re very good at it.
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Contact Atlas Travel Center to speak with one of our experienced travel advisors. We’re CLIA-certified, ARC-accredited, and have maintained an A+ BBB rating for over 35 years. Whatever kind of travel experience you’re envisioning, we’d love to help you make it happen.
