If there was a model Tuscan town, the one you see on the front cover of guidebooks, it would be San Gimignano. The town, along with its pretty skyline of 13th-century towers, is perched on top of a Tuscan hill surrounded by the old city walls and sweeping cypress trees. When you come to stay in a San Gimignano vacation rental, you'll quickly realize why it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll feel like you've stepped back in time when you wander along the narrow streets, which open onto a sunny piazza flanked by gorgeous Medieval buildings.
When you pop out of your San Gimignano vacation rental, you'll find a town which is easily explored by foot and, though small, it's bursting at the seams with things to see. You could start your day with a cappuccino and pastry in the sunny piazza, before discovering the ancient artwork inside the Palazzo Comunale. Afterwards, you'll be puffed out when you climb the Torre Grossa, but the views from the top are worth the effort. In the afternoon, grab yourself that obligatory, and delicious, Italian gelato and then dive into the rather grizzly but fascinating Medieval Torture Museum.
Italy has always been about good food, good wine and good company, and Tuscany is no exception. Staying in a San Gimignano vacation rental puts you in the heart of these rolling hills. Whether you go by car or by bicycle, it's unthinkable not to drop into one of the Chianti wineries, to sample some of the country's finest reds. To learn the art of Tuscan cuisine, you should consider taking the family to one of the many cooking classes on offer, where you can learn about Italian produce and try your hand at cooking fresh pasta dishes.
While the summer months see the most glorious weather, with little rain and endlessly bright skies, it also attracts the biggest crowds, who book up the San Gimignano vacation rentals. If you don't mind a slightly cooler temperature, arguably better if you plan to hike or bike, try to nab a rental between April and May or September and October, when the summer crowds are back at home and the town feels decidedly more quiet and local. For rock-bottom prices, you could visit in winter, when you'll likely be the only foreigner in town but expect cold and rainy weather.
While you're staying in a San Gimignano vacation rental, it would be a shame to miss the 700-hectre Castelvecchio, a forest-covered nature reserve just a short drive away. This wild land holds your best chances of spotting wildlife in Tuscany. If you take a hike through the park, you'll likely encounter several critters including deer, red foxes and the occasional wild boar which rustles around on the forest floor, not to mention the scampering hares and porcupines. If you look up to the treetops and towards the marshes, there's more to see, including tawny owls, pheasants and beautiful herons.
The nearest airport is in Florence Airport, Peretola (FLR), located 24.4 mi (39.3 km) from the city center.
Whatever vacation experience you're seeking, you'll find a rental property in or around San Gimignano that's perfect for you. Why not try these on for size?:
For even more great options, use the search bar at the top of the page to find the perfect San Gimignano vacation rental for you.
Your Monday to Friday will be easier to face if you've got something epic lined up for the weekend. Give yourself something fun to look forward to by arranging a stay at one of these top weekend getaways in or near San Gimignano:
Generally compact, inexpensive and conveniently located, it's easy to be impressed by a studio apartment. Escape to one of these options and experience San Gimignano up close:
With the moolah you save on your studio apartment, you'll be able to explore even more of San Gimignano. Cultural sights like Chianti Sculpture Park and Podesta's Palace will help you get a better feel for the character of this destination.
Short-term rentals are easy to find in and around San Gimignano. Chill out for a night or two in a condo, a resort-style apartment or a large home. Whatever sort of vacation rental you're looking for, you'll have plenty to select from with Vrbo. Here are some of our favorite options:
Nothing says "I love you" quite like a romantic weekend together. If you want to spend a couple of relaxing evenings away with your partner, we've got some romantic getaways in and around San Gimignano that will get your heart racing:
Share your trip and double the fun. Whether you're organizing an action-packed getaway with your best friends or a big family get-together, there's no shortage of large group vacation rentals in and around San Gimignano:
Of all the conveniences a vacation rental can offer, a pool is hands down the most fun. Browse these houses for rent with a pool in or near San Gimignano and spend your time splashing about. Just remember to bring your unicorn floatie:
San Gimignano has a humid subtropical climate, with average summertime temperatures hovering between 60 ºF and 85 ºF. But you don't have to wait until summer to visit. Check out the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the ideal San Gimignano vacation rental and plan your escape for whatever season you like.
Whether your ideal escape is up in the hills or on the beach, you'll enjoy it even more if you share it with family and friends. Check out these large family vacation rentals in or near San Gimignano and bring the entire crew along:
If you'd like to do some sightseeing, there are lots of family-friendly attractions nearby to put on your to-do list. Palazzo Pubblico, Palazzo Piccolomini and Monteriggioni Castle are fine places to start.
Nothing says "glamorous getaway" like having an indoor pool. Pack your swimwear and enjoy a dip in the privacy of one of these roomy vacation homes in or near San Gimignano:
If you're after more options, use the search bar at the top of the page and adjust the filters to find the San Gimignano vacation rental that's perfect for your needs.
Absolutely. From swish apartments to cute cottages, Vrbo offers a selection of great getaways. Traveling families will like these two-bedroom properties in or near San Gimignano: