Exploring the Medieval Charm of San Gimignano with Family

A Day of Discovery

Today was a whirlwind of art, history, and, of course, incredible food. Leaving the familiar comfort of San Gimignano for a day trip to Florence, I was eager to soak in as much culture as possible. With Emily and Oliver in tow, plus my trusty Arsenal cap, we set off to explore the city's hidden gems and iconic landmarks. It's days like these that remind me why I love travel so much – the chance to immerse myself in a new place, learn its stories, and share those experiences with my family.



Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Risto Macelleria I Piaceri Della Carne. Now, I know what you might be thinking: a butcher shop for breakfast? But trust me, this place is a hidden gem. It’s not just a butcher shop; it’s a culinary experience. The aroma of cured meats and aged cheeses filled the air, instantly making my stomach rumble. We settled into a cozy corner and ordered a selection of local delicacies. I went for a mixed platter of cold cuts, while Emily opted for a cheese selection, and Oliver, surprisingly, wanted some salami.

Sometimes, the best travel experiences come from veering off the beaten path and embracing the unexpected.

After breakfast, we headed towards Torri degli Ardinghelli, back in San Gimignano.


Experience the enchanting Torri degli Ardinghelli, a medieval masterpiece in the heart of San Gimignano, offering stunning views and rich history.

These towers, standing tall in Piazza della Cisterna, offer a glimpse into the medieval past of this charming town. Built by the Ardinghelli family, who were Ghibellines, these structures were symbols of wealth and power. The towers date back to the 12th century and were once taller than the Torre Rognosa, until a decree in 1255 limited their height. It's fascinating to imagine what life was like during those times, with rival families competing to build the highest tower. Oliver was particularly intrigued by the stories of knights and battles, his imagination running wild as he gazed up at the ancient stones. I made sure to tell him the story of San Gimignano, known as the city of beautiful towers. In its heyday, it boasted 72 towers; today, 14 remain. These towers offer a window into what Tuscany looked like in the 13th and 14th centuries.


Next on our list was Piazza di San Lorenzo in Florence.


Discover the vibrant heart of Florence at Piazza di San Lorenzo, a historic square teeming with art, culture, and local flavors.

This bustling square is home to the Basilica di San Lorenzo, one of the oldest churches in Florence. The square has been a hub of activity since the 1400s, with markets and vendors adding to its vibrant atmosphere. As we strolled through the square, I couldn't help but feel the weight of history surrounding us. The Basilica itself is stunning, with its Renaissance architecture and intricate details. It was originally consecrated in 393 AD and served as the city's cathedral for 300 years. The square is always bustling with tourists visiting the Basilica and the nearby Central Market. The Basilica of San Lorenzo is one of Florence's largest churches, situated in the main market district. It also serves as the burial place for members of the Medici family.


Our main destination for the day was the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze.


Explore the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, home to Michelangelo's David and a stunning collection of Renaissance art.

As a history enthusiast, I was excited to see Michelangelo's David in person. The museum is home to a collection of priceless masterpieces. Of course, the main attraction is Michelangelo's David. The sheer size and artistry of the sculpture are breathtaking. It was moved to the Galleria dell'Accademia in 1873 to protect it from the elements after previously standing in Piazza della Signoria. The perfection in human anatomy is on full display in Michelangelo's masterpiece.


But the Accademia is more than just David. It also houses a remarkable collection of paintings by Florentine artists, mostly from the period 1300–1600. We spent a good amount of time wandering through the halls, admiring works by artists like Sandro Botticelli and Filippino Lippi. The museum also has a collection of musical instruments. Oliver was fascinated by the ancient instruments, especially the ones that looked like they came straight out of a fairytale. The Accademia Gallery is a must-see on any trip to Florence.


After immersing ourselves in art, it was time for lunch. We found ourselves at Osteria Baccano, a charming spot known for its traditional Tuscan cuisine.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Osteria Baccano in San Gimignano - where tradition meets taste in every bite.

The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the menu was filled with local specialties. I decided to try the ribollita, a hearty bread and vegetable soup, while Emily went for the pappa al pomodoro, a tomato and bread soup. Oliver, ever adventurous, chose the pasta with wild boar ragu. Each dish was bursting with flavor, showcasing the best of Tuscan ingredients.


Before heading back to San Gimignano, we made a quick stop at Beconcini Tuscan Handmade.


Discover the essence of Tuscany at Beconcini Tuscan Handmade, where artisanal craftsmanship meets local tradition.

I wanted to pick up a few souvenirs to remember our trip. This shop offers a wide range of handmade crafts, from ceramics to leather goods. I ended up buying a hand-painted ceramic plate and a leather wallet for myself. Emily found a beautiful scarf, and Oliver chose a wooden toy sword. It's always nice to support local artisans and take home something unique. The shop has 50 years of experience in Tuscan handmade products and ships worldwide.


Finally, for dinner, we decided to try Il Ceppo Toscano in San Gimignano.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Il Ceppo Toscano in San Gimignano – where every dish tells a story.

Having heard rave reviews about their steaks, I was eager to try their Fiorentina. The restaurant has a refined ambiance and attentive staff. Il Ceppo Toscano is known for its beef, offering a selection of breeds from different countries. The chef prepares the cuts using a Jester wood oven. I opted for the Italian Wagyu/Black Angus T-Bone, and it was cooked to perfection. Emily chose the Parmigiana Melanzane, while Oliver enjoyed a simple pasta dish. The restaurant also boasts a great selection of Tuscan wines.


As we head into our final day tomorrow, I am already thinking about the things I want to see. Piazza della Cisterna is at the top of the list. Then, I am hoping we can squeeze in visits to Palazzo Mari and Casa Santa Fina. Who knows, maybe we'll even find time for a drink at Divina Lounge Bar to celebrate a successful trip.


Today was a reminder of why I love traveling with my family. Sharing these experiences with Emily and Oliver makes them even more special. From the historical depths of Piazza di San Lorenzo to the artistic heights of Galleria dell’Accademia and the culinary delights of Osteria Baccano and Il Ceppo Toscano, every moment was a treasure. As we prepare to leave San Gimignano tomorrow, I know that the memories we've made here will stay with us for years to come.