Tuscany’s art cities are well known and loved by many, but not everyone has had the chance to visit the Tuscan villages. The most beautiful villages of Tuscany are typical small towns, often perched on a hilltop, sometimes surrounded by ancient protective walls. Or they lie among splendid fields in the valley or along the wonderful coast.
Those who enjoy weekends in the main art destinations will surely love discovering these little gems often immersed in breathtaking landscapes that make a visit almost magical. Wherever you are headed, in the Val d’Elsa, in the Val d’Orcia, in the Maremma or in the Garfagnana, know that there is a beautiful village waiting to be found at any time of year. What are you waiting for? Plan a trip!
The Most Beautiful Villages of Tuscany: Charming Towns That Surprise You
You will enjoy not only the artistic and cultural heritage contained in these places, but also the goodness and richness of the food and wine tradition. Scattered here and there are historic wineries that organize wine tastings paired with typical local cured meats and cheeses. And after a stroll through the chosen village, it will be a pleasure to stop for dinner in one of the characteristic restaurants you will find in the picturesque illuminated alleys .
Here is a list of the most beautiful villages of Tuscany, pack your backpack and join a group of enthusiasts like you!
1. San Gimignano
Located in the province of Siena, it is one of the most famous and visited villages in the entire region. The village of San Gimignano is unmistakable even from afar because it is characterized by 13 very tall towers If that seems like a lot, know that they are only what remains of the 72 towers that once stood here long ago.
Here you will find ancient noble palaces with majestic doors and very elegant rooms. If you walk near the village boundaries, you will find the walls on which you can stroll and admire the vast panorama of hills and vineyards. The atmosphere is completely medieval because San Gimignano suffered an economic crisis during the Renaissance. A treat for lovers of the genre is definitely the Museum of Torture.
2. Capalbio
Beach holidays in Tuscany are not just about beaches and aperitifs; even in these areas you can find beautiful historic villages, and Capalbio is one of them. The southernmost municipality in the region is located in the Maremma and is a typical small town perched on a hill, not far from the beaches. Here the landscape is different from Chianti or Val d’Orcia, as the Mediterranean scrub dominates.
Don’t miss a walk along the walls that enclose the village; from here you can admire the castle down in the valley and also the coast. Another place to absolutely visit is the Tarot Garden, a park inspired by Barcelona’s Parc Güell, which hosts statues representing the tarot cards. If you are in the area in early September, be sure to visit the wild boar festival.
3. Montepulciano
South of the province of Siena, almost on the border withUmbria, lies the enchanting village of Montepulciano. The name is surely familiar to you, as it is in this area that the famous Nobile di Montepulciano wine is produced. Nestled in the bucolic countryside, the village sits high on a hill, offering a splendid view over Val d’Orcia and Val di Chiana.
Lose yourself in the narrow streets of the historic center, admire the ancient palaces and churches untouched, and explore the countryside you will find just a short distance from each village.