The Best Bars in San Gimignano, Italy

San Gimignano may be walled, but there are no bounds to its brilliant bars
San Gimignano may be walled, but there are no bounds to its brilliant bars | © escapetheofficejob / Alamy
Luca Marchiori

There are few places in Tuscany that offer better wine and views than San Gimignano. Discover our favourite bars dotted around this quaint, Medieval town.

San Gimignano’s local wine, vernaccia, is counted among the best in Italy, and there are plenty of places to sample it along the city’s narrow streets. As you do, you’ll discover the inimitable culture of Italian bars, which transition through the day from breakfast stops into cafes and ice-cream parlours, and then into late-night watering holes.

1. D!Vineria

Wine Bar, Wine

With a name like D!Vineria, you’d be right to expect heavenly wine. At this enoteca in the heart of San Gimignano, you can enjoy a glass of vernaccia and other Tuscan labels under a canvas umbrella in a quintessential square, accompanied by a platter of local cheese, salumi and the scent of geraniums. If you’re lucky, you might meet the enthusiastic owner, Massimo Delli.

2. Bar Boboli

Bar, Cafe, Italian

San Gimignano, Tuscany, Italy. Al fresco dining at Bar Boboli, Via S Giovanni
© David Broadbent / Alamy

Medieval-style chandeliers illuminate the barrel vaulting at Bar Boboli. Here, you can enjoy everything from coffee and a croissant for breakfast, to an after-dinner grappa. Located on a sidestreet just off the main drag, it’s a great place to recharge your batteries with your tipple of choice. In true Italian style, there are plenty of cakes and ice cream to be had.

4. Bar Le Torri

Bar, Italian

Named after San Gimignano’s most impressive feature, this bar is found right in front of the cathedral in the main square. Sit outside with an espresso and bask in the Tuscan sunshine, or kick back with an Aperol spritz or Italian craft beer. The prices are a little higher here, but they come with an astounding view.

5. Enjoy

Bar, Italian

Stop by the shady patio area at Enjoy and take in the sunset after a long day of exploring the town – it’s a short walk beyond the city walls with views back towards the towers. Expect a long list of expertly mixed cocktails, ranging from Italian favourites like Campari soda to long island iced tea. Billed as a ristopub, it also serves hamburgers, poke bowls and pizza.

6. Bar La Cisterna

Bar, Italian

Restaurant in Piazza della Cisterna Square, San Gimignano; Tuscany; Italy
© Kevin George / Alamy

Piazza della Cisterna is one of the best places to admire San Gimignano’s towers from inside the walls; Bar La Cisterna is the best place to have a drink while doing so. The house white is a very well-chosen vernaccia, and with ample seating in the square, it’s a real people-watching venue. In winter, the outdoor heaters keep you toasty.

7. Bar I Combattenti

Bar, Cafe, Italian

Although it’s pretty much the first place you pass as you enter San Gimignano, this bar is worth a visit. As well as all the usual drinks, I Combattenti is famous for porchetta (traditional roast hog), which is often displayed in the window. A few slices wrapped in a fresh bread roll make the perfect foil to a glass of chilled beer on a summer’s day.

8. Gustavo Mescita Vini

Bar, Wine Bar, Italian

Gustavo Mescita Vini is a small, impeccably run wine bar with a large selection and expert advice on what to try. As always, the wine can be paired with local cheese, cold cuts, bread, olive oil and other products from Tuscany’s rich bounty. Make sure you buy a bottle to take home with you – it’s a great alternative to a wine tour if you don’t have time.

9. Tenuta Torciano

Wine Seller, Wine

Torciano Hotel Vecchio Asilo_cca16303
Courtesy of Torciano Hotel Vecchio Asilo / Expedia

If you’re serious about wine, a good place to sample it is at the cellar door. Tenuta Torciano, a short drive outside San Gimignano, offers a wide range of tasting experiences with an even wider range of Tuscan wine. There are food and accommodation options too, with panoramic views of the countryside and, of course, the skyline.

To explore more of Italy, discover the best villas in Capri, or the best hotels in Positano – they’re bookable with Culture Trip. During your stay, explore the best hiking trails in Sicily, and relax on the best beaches near Rome. Make sure to also visit at least one of the best bars on the Amalfi Coast for a drink with a view.

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