A Family Adventure in San Gimignano's Timeless Charm

A Fond Farewell to San Gimignano

As our week-long adventure in San Gimignano draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. From exploring the rolling hills of Tuscany to immersing ourselves in the medieval charm of this town, every moment has been a treasure. Today, our final day, was no exception, filled with more unforgettable sights, tastes, and memories.

Our last morning in San Gimignano began, as many others did, with a delightful breakfast at Chiribiri. The friendly atmosphere and the promise of strong coffee were the perfect start to the day. Luka was especially excited about the pastries, and Ana and I enjoyed the peaceful ambiance before diving into our final day of exploration. It's funny how a simple breakfast can become such a cherished part of a travel routine, a little ritual that grounds you in a new place.


Discover authentic Tuscan cuisine at Chiribiri in San Gimignano - where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

After breakfast, we decided to start our day with a climb up Torre Rognosa. Known as the Clock Tower or Podestà Tower, it stands proudly in Piazza del Duomo. Although the interior wasn't open to the public, admiring its exterior from Piazza del Duomo was enough to appreciate its historic significance. Standing at approximately 51 meters, it is one of the tallest and best-preserved medieval towers in San Gimignano. As I gazed up, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like in the 13th century when this tower was first built.


Discover Torre Rognosa, a historical landmark in San Gimignano, offering stunning views and a glimpse into Tuscany's medieval past.

Next, we wandered over to Piazza della Cisterna. This triangular, brick-paved square is the heart of San Gimignano, and it was bustling with activity. The octagonal travertine well in the center, dating back to the 13th century, is not only a beautiful focal point but also a reminder of the town's history. Luka was fascinated by the well, and Ana captured some lovely photos of him peering into it. The square is surrounded by medieval houses and towers, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. We took our time strolling around, soaking in the sights and sounds of this vibrant space. The buildings surrounding the square, like the Devil's Tower and the Ardinghelli family towers, each have their own unique stories. It felt like stepping back in time.


Discover the enchanting Piazza della Cisterna in San Gimignano, a historical landmark bursting with medieval charm, local culture, and vibrant atmosphere.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

One of the highlights of our day was the Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Experience La Rocca. As a lover of wine, especially Slovenian wines, I was eager to learn more about this local variety. The Wine Experience offered a sensory tasting of two vintage Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG wines, along with a Vernaccia di San Gimignano DOCG Riserva. The sommelier was incredibly knowledgeable, explaining the history of the Vernaccia grape, the different winemaking methods, and how the geology of the region affects the wines. Ana, who isn't usually a fan of white wine, was pleasantly surprised by the crisp, refreshing taste of the Vernaccia. Luka, of course, enjoyed the grape juice and some local snacks that were offered. It was a fantastic way to appreciate the region's viticultural heritage.


Explore Tuscany’s wine heritage at the Vernaccia di San Gimignano Wine Experience, where history and flavor intertwine in every sip of this iconic Italian wine.

After the wine experience, we strolled through the charming streets of San Gimignano, eventually finding ourselves at Il Negozio delle Curiosità. This little shop was a treasure trove of unique souvenirs and local crafts. Luka was particularly drawn to the wooden toys, while Ana admired the hand-painted ceramics. I picked up a small leather-bound journal, hoping to capture some of the memories from our trip in writing. It's these little mementos that help us relive our travels long after we've returned home. The shop owner, Gianni, was incredibly friendly, sharing stories about the town and its artisans. It's always a pleasure to connect with locals and learn about their craft.


Explore stunning artisan pottery in San Gimignano, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of Tuscany's rich cultural heritage.

For lunch, we had the pleasure of dining at Osteria del Carcere. This cozy osteria, known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine, was the perfect spot to refuel after a busy morning. The atmosphere was intimate and welcoming, and the staff made us feel right at home. We started with some delicious crostini, topped with various local cheeses and cured meats. For the main course, Ana and I opted for the ribollita, a traditional Tuscan bread and vegetable soup, while Luka enjoyed a simple yet satisfying pasta dish. The food was hearty and flavorful, showcasing the best of Tuscan ingredients. It was a delightful culinary experience that we won't soon forget.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Osteria del Carcere in San Gimignano - where tradition meets flavor in a charming setting.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Il Trovatore for our final dinner in San Gimignano. This restaurant, located just outside the city walls, offered stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff was incredibly attentive. We started with a selection of local cheeses and salumi, followed by a mouthwatering Florentine steak for Ana and me, and a pizza for Luka. The steak was cooked to perfection, tender and flavorful, and the pizza was a hit with Luka. To accompany our meal, we ordered a bottle of Vernaccia di San Gimignano, savoring every sip as we reflected on our incredible journey. It was the perfect ending to our Tuscan adventure.


Discover Il Trovatore in San Gimignano: A delightful blend of authentic Italian cuisine featuring pizza and steak amidst enchanting Tuscan scenery.

As we prepare to leave San Gimignano tomorrow and head back to Zurich, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've shared as a family. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been an opportunity to connect with each other, explore a new culture, and create lasting memories. From the medieval towers to the rolling hills, from the delicious food to the exquisite wine, San Gimignano has captured our hearts. I know we'll be back someday, but for now, we'll cherish the memories we've made here. It's these shared experiences that strengthen our bond as a family, and I'm grateful for every moment.

Looking back on our week in San Gimignano, I realize how much we've learned and grown as a family. Luka has become more curious about history and culture, Ana has discovered a newfound appreciation for Tuscan cuisine, and I've reaffirmed my love for exploring new places and sharing those experiences with my loved ones. As we prepare for our journey back to Zurich, I'm filled with a sense of excitement for what lies ahead, knowing that we'll carry the memories of San Gimignano with us always. Until next time, Tuscany!

Tomorrow marks the end of our trip, and while there's no specific itinerary, we plan to enjoy a leisurely morning before heading to Florence for our flight back to Zurich. We'll take one last stroll through the town, perhaps pick up a few more souvenirs, and savor a final cappuccino before saying goodbye to this enchanting place. It's always bittersweet to leave a place that has captured your heart, but I know that we'll carry the memories of San Gimignano with us always.

Ana and Luka were fantastic travel partners, as always. Ana's eye for detail and photography skills ensured we captured every beautiful moment, while Luka's boundless energy and curiosity kept us on our toes. I'm so grateful to have them by my side on these adventures. It's the shared experiences that make our family bond even stronger, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.