LOCATION:

Nearest Airport: Florence Peretola  1 h 41 min, Nearest serviced town: 10 min, Nearest major city: Siena 43 min                                                                                                                                  Driving time estimated by Google Maps

The medieval town of Siena is built across several hills and valleys; that's why you will find yourself walking up and down through its historical centre. The lack of car traffic makes Siena a wonderful place to stroll, especially with kids! Despite sometimes being packed with tourists, the city always has a quiet and easygoing feel. A must-see is the shell-shaped square called Il Campo. This is the focal point of the city and the perfect setting to snap your Instagram photos while enjoying an over-sized gelato. This is also the venue of the internationally renowned horse race, The Palio, which takes place on July 2nd and again on August 16th each year.

Visit San Gimignano, famous for its skyline, and Volterra, renown for alabaster artefacts. The small fortress cities within easy driving distance of one another, each offer their own special appeal. The medieval walled city of Monteriggioni – for example – was built in the 13th century and it is known to be one of the most well preserved ancient fortifications in Italy, which is why it is a preferred destination for plenty of tourists, scholars, architects and archeologists from all over Europe.

WHERE TO SHOP;
Handmade Crystal: Collevilca – besides purchasing their products, take a factory tour available from Monday to Friday and watch the artisans hand-blowing their creations.
Loc. San Marziale, 24, Colle di Val D’Elsa – +39 0577 927 204
Alabaster Houseware: Alab’Arte, an artisanal bottega where one-of-a-kind pieces are created. Via degli Orti di San Agostino, Volterra -+39 0588 879 68
The best gelato: Gelateria di Piazza in San Gimignano it’s one of the most famous ice cream shops in all of Italy. Award-winning master ice cream maker Sergio Dondoli uses seasonal ingredients to create some unusual flavours. Piazza Della Cisterna 4, San Gimignano - +39 0577 942244
Specialty Food shop: Pizzicheria de Miccoli - Located in Siena historic centre, it is very well known for its special selection of Tuscan cured meats. Via di Citta 95, Siena - +39 0577 246948

To do and see

https://www.komoot.com/guide/606433/attractions-around-montalcino

https://www.placesofjuma.com/montalcino-italy-tuscany/

https://www.posarellivillas.com/best-of-italy/2019/central-italy/tuscany/montalcino-tour