San Gimignano, the medieval town on the hill enclosed by a wall, will always remain by far one of my favourite Tuscan towns. It was just as beautiful as I remembered it, with a truly breathtaking view of the cultivated land, with its rolling hills of green, gray olive trees and perfectly lined up vineyards. I strongly recommend buying some fresh fruit at the market and having a picnic while overlooking the landscape here - this is the true Tuscany - yellow, green, fertile, and overwhelmingly beautiful.

Although it used to be a small Etruscan village from around 200-300 BC, it began as a town in the 10th century taking its name from St. Gimignano, who is said to have saved the village from the barbarians.

Uphill walking, tiny alleyways, cobblestone streets, charming windows & doors, old stoned walls, delicate stores and sweet smelling restaurants are just a few enjoyable things about this little place. If you have a chance to go there from Siena or Florence, I strongly recommend a day to absorb, wander and indulge in ...