Tuscany's Hidden Treasures

SAN GIMIGNANO, VOLTERRA AND SAN GALGANO MYSTERIOUS ABBEY

Fall for the charm of these three hidden treasures tucked away in Tuscany. San Gimignano is frequently referred to as “Medieval Manhattan” because of its numerous towers. Volterra, famous for alabaster, is so well preserved that you will feel like you are stepping back in time. And finally San Galgano, the roofless Abbey, is in fact also home to THE legendary ‘Sword in the Stone’. Join this unexpected tour and take a day ‘off the beaten track’.  

This journey begins in San Gimignano, famous for its towers, Vernaccia white wine, and gelato! Explore its cobblestone streets lined with ancient buildings and artisanal stores filled with wine, ceramics, and other treasures. Don’t miss the epic countryside views from the panoramic walking paths.

The second stop is Volterra, the town of alabaster, which oozes medieval charm and old-worldliness. Also perched on top of a hill, the views might be even more stunning. Not just an outdoor museum, in Volterra you can visit the Palace of Priors, the Medici Fortress or the Etruscan Museum, which is one of the oldest public museums in Europe. Make sure you leave time to browse the artisan workshops scattered throughout the historic center. Craftsmanship is, in fact, the pride of Volterra and you can’t miss the chance to bring home a unique, handmade alabaster artifact as a memento of the day.

Our final stop is the mysterious San Galgano Abbey. Of the 13th Century Cistercian Abbey only the walls remain: it is empty and roofless, above it only the sky. Prepare to travel with your imagination as you step inside and let the grandeur of the gothic architecture inspire you.

Lastly, if you love myths and legends this is the place to be. Take the walking path from the Abbey to the nearby Eremo di Montesiepi. Follow it back to the court of King Arthur, in just a few minutes you will find yourselves standing before the real Sword in the Stone.

TOUR DETAILS

INCLUDES:

  • Roundtrip journey by fully fitted GT Coach
  • Small group tour
  • Expert English speaking tour leader
  • Free time in San Gimignano, Volterra and San Galgano
  • Entrance fee to San Galgano Abbey
 

NOTES AND ADVICE

  • We are sorry to inform you that this tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or people with reduced mobility
  • Comfortable shoes are recommended
  • Please, note that the given order of the visits may change

MEETING POINT

Clients are requested to arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before the tour departure. The time of your tour can be found in the booking calendar when you select your tour and also on your confirmation voucher.

Meeting Point: TOURS & NEWS KIOSK AT PIAZZALE MONTELUNGO BUS TERMINAL. Located at 5-10 minutes walking distance from Santa Maria Novella Train Station. Look for our staff wearing a FUCHSIA CIAOFLORENCE JACKET and holding a CIAOFLORENCE CLIPBOARD!

NOTE

This tour is offered by Ciao Florence Tours and Travels srl. The confirmation of your booking will be immediate and will come from Ciao Florence. Please make sure you insert your email and contact details correctly to receive your tour confirmation and departure voucher.

For more information about the terms and conditions associated with this booking please read the Important Information section below. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

REGULAR TOURS – GENERAL TERMS & CONDITIONS

TOURS
Tours can be performed in various languages.

Clients are requested to arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before the tour departure.

No refund will be given to those clients who do not show up at the meeting point at the set time or to clients who lose contact with the guide or who do not complete the tour.

CANCELLATION POLICY
Free cancellation within 48 hours prior the tour departure, unless noted otherwise.
Please note that all the tours by train are not refundable once booked.

CANCELLATION BY THE TOUR OPERATOR
When, for any reason, the Tour Operator cancels the excursion, the client has the right to claim reimbursement, only of the sum paid.

In case of unforeseen circumstances (strikes, road conditions, weather, etc) Ciaoflorence may modify the itinerary with alternative solutions maintaining the duration and quality of the service.

DISPUTES
Any complaint by the client must be communicated in writing to Ciaoflorence staff within and no later than 10 business days after the date of the tour.

Complaints or disputes that cannot be resolved amicably between the client and the Tour Operator, shall be referred to the Florence Court.