Tuscany’s enchanting landscape beckons visitors to explore its medieval charm. A private luxury van tour through San Gimignano and Volterra offers a chance to uncover the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Wander the UNESCO-protected streets of San Gimignano, admire its iconic towers, and discover Volterra’s Etruscan roots. This exclusive experience promises an immersive journey into the heart of Tuscany, where stunning vistas and captivating stories await…

Contents show

Key Points

Explore the ancient Etruscan city of Volterra, known for its well-preserved medieval streets, alabaster workshops, and archaeological sites.
Discover the captivating tradition of alabaster craftsmanship in Volterra, with skilled artisans demonstrating techniques from carving to polishing.
Experience the grandeur of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its medieval architecture and iconic skyline of towers.
Enjoy the magnificent Collegiate Church and Piazza Duomo in San Gimignano, showcasing Romanesque architecture and stunning panoramic views.
Uncover the Twilight film sites in Volterra, including the Palazzo dei Priori, Piazza della Cisterna, and the Etruscan Porta all’Arco.

Explore the Captivating Town of Volterra

What makes Volterra such a captivating town to explore? Perched atop a hill, this ancient Etruscan city offers a glimpse into Italy’s rich past.

Visitors can wander through its well-preserved medieval streets, admiring the striking Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta and exploring alabaster workshops that have thrived here for centuries.

Wander through Volterra’s well-preserved medieval streets, admiring the striking cathedral and exploring centuries-old alabaster workshops.

The town’s Roman baths and Etruscan tombs provide a fascinating archaeological backdrop.

For fans of the "Twilight" series, Volterra is also home to several filming locations.

With its stunning vistas and unhurried pace, Volterra invites travelers to enjoy the timeless allure of Tuscany.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Florence

Discover the Allure of Alabaster Workshops

Volterra’s centuries-old tradition of alabaster craftsmanship is a captivating allure for visitors. Alabaster, a translucent natural stone, has been mined and carved in the area for over 2,500 years.

Visitors can explore the town’s alabaster workshops, where skilled artisans demonstrate their techniques, from intricate carving to polishing the stone. Observing the transformation of raw alabaster into delicate sculptures and ornaments provides a unique insight into Volterra’s enduring heritage.

Guests can browse the workshops’ showrooms, admiring the variety of alabaster products, from decorative vases to practical kitchenware. This immersive experience allows travelers to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that defines Volterra’s vibrant cultural identity.

Bask in the Grandeur of San Gimignano

The historic center of San Gimignano stands as a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivating visitors with its well-preserved medieval architecture and iconic skyline of soaring towers.

Travelers can explore the Piazza Duomo, home to the striking Collegiate Church, or wander through the charming alleyways to discover the Sant’Agostino church.

Climbing to the top of the medieval towers offers breathtaking panoramic views over the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

The lively Piazza della Cisterna, with its distinctive fountain and quaint shops, invites visitors to soak in the timeless ambiance of this enchanting town.

Immerse Yourself in the Collegiate Church and Piazza Duomo

Visitors to San Gimignano’s Piazza Duomo are captivated by the striking Collegiate Church, a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture that dominates the square.

The church’s ornate facade, with its intricate marble carvings and soaring bell tower, invites exploration. Inside, visitors discover a vast interior adorned with frescoes and ancient artifacts.

The adjacent Piazza Duomo, surrounded by historic buildings, offers a picturesque setting for strolling and admiring the town’s famous medieval towers.

Visitors can climb the Torre Grossa, the tallest of San Gimignano’s towers, for panoramic views of the town and the rolling Tuscan countryside beyond.

Climb the Medieval Towers for Panoramic Views

What better way to capture the essence of San Gimignano’s medieval splendor than climbing its iconic towers?

Towering at heights up to 54 meters, these medieval lookouts offer unparalleled panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Scaling the stone steps, you’ll be rewarded with a bird’s-eye perspective of the town’s UNESCO-listed historic center, complete with its distinct skyline of 14 remaining towers.

This strenuous but worthwhile ascent allows you to truly learn about the town’s rich history and appreciate the architectural mastery of its past inhabitants.

Don’t miss this quintessential San Gimignano experience.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Florence

Stroll Through the Cobblestone Streets of Volterra

As you stroll through the cobblestone streets of Volterra, you’ll be captivated by the town’s rich Etruscan and Roman heritage.

Explore ancient Etruscan tombs that dot the landscape, offering glimpses into the lives of this enigmatic civilization.

The well-preserved Roman baths provide a fascinating look at the daily lives of the region’s Roman inhabitants.

Wander past medieval buildings and into picturesque piazzas, where you can admire the intricate alabaster carvings for which Volterra is renowned.

This charming town offers a chance to step back in time and learn about Italy’s storied past.

Uncover the Twilight Film Sites in Volterra

Where can visitors on the San Gimignano and Volterra Tour uncover the Twilight film sites in Volterra? On this private luxury van tour, guests can explore the picturesque town and discover filming locations used in the popular Twilight saga.

| Twilight Film Sites | Location |

| — | — |

| Palazzo dei Priori | Piazza dei Priori |

| Piazza della Cisterna | Historic center |

| Porta all’Arco | Etruscan gate |

Visitors can stroll the cobblestone streets and marvel at the medieval architecture that set the stage for the vampire love story. This unique experience allows travelers to enjoy the filming backdrops of the iconic supernatural franchise.

FAQ

What Is the Difference Between a Private and Group Tour?

The key difference between a private and group tour is the level of personalization and flexibility. Private tours offer a more customized experience with undivided attention, while group tours share the guide and itinerary with other travelers to reduce costs.

Can We Visit Additional Sites Not Included in the Itinerary?

Guests on a private tour typically have more flexibility to visit additional sites not included in the standard itinerary. They can work with the guide to customize the tour based on their interests and preferences.

Do We Have the Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers should discuss any desired changes or additions to the itinerary with the tour provider prior to booking to ensure availability and pricing.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Travelers With Mobility Issues?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is stroller accessible. Most travelers are able to participate, though those with mobility issues may find some aspects challenging, such as climbing up to see the medieval towers.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Interests?

Yes, the tour’s itinerary can be customized to suit travelers’ interests. The private nature of the tour allows for flexibility, so guests can focus on the sites and experiences that most appeal to them.

Sum Up

This private luxury van tour of San Gimignano and Volterra offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and stunning Tuscan landscapes. Visitors can explore the medieval towers and charming alleyways of San Gimignano, as well as the ancient Etruscan city of Volterra, known for its alabaster workshops and archaeological treasures. The tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the enchanting beauty and rich heritage of these renowned Tuscan destinations.