Monte San Savino Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink, where to stay, and local culture and customs of Monte San Savino, Tuscany in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Monte San Savino

Monte San Savino is a picturesque town nestled in the scenic region of Val di Chiana, in Arezzo province, Tuscany. Known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings, Monte San Savino is a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic Italian experience. This guide is designed to provide you with everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Monte San Savino and make the most of your time in this charming town.

List of Places to Visit in Monte San Savino

Monte San Savino boasts a wide range of attractions for visitors to explore, from museums and historical landmarks to natural wonders and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Monte San Savino:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Palazzo Comunale: This medieval palace houses the town hall and a museum showcasing artworks and historical relics from the region’s past.
  • Museo Civico: Located inside the Palazzo Comunale, this museum features paintings, sculptures, and artifacts from the 13th to the 18th centuries.
  • Chiesa di San Michele Arcangelo: This beautiful church dates back to the 16th century and is known for its stunning frescoes and architectural features.
  • Teatro degli Illuminati: Built in the 18th century, this theatre has been beautifully restored and hosts cultural events and performances throughout the year.
  • Pieve di Santa Maria della Pieve: This ancient church dates back to the 12th century and features exquisite Romanesque architecture and artwork.

Natural Attractions of Monte San Savino: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Val di Chiana: This picturesque valley is famous for its stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and vineyards. Visitors can take scenic drives, go hiking or biking, or simply soak in the natural beauty of the region.
  • Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi: This national park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including rare species such as the wolves and golden eagles.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Monte San Savino

Monte San Savino is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore in the region. Here are some of the best routes to consider:

  • Sentiero della Bonifica: This scenic bike trail takes you through the stunning countryside of Val di Chiana, passing through quaint villages and wineries along the way.
  • Monte San Savino Loop: This picturesque hiking trail takes you through the rolling hills of Tuscany, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Cammino di San Cristoforo: This historic pilgrimage route takes you through the heart of Tuscany, passing through some of the most beautiful landscapes and cultural landmarks of the region.

Best Things to Do in Monte San Savino: Activities and Tours

From cultural excursions to outdoor adventures, Monte San Savino offers plenty of activities and tours to suit every interest and budget. Here are some of the best things to do in Monte San Savino:

  • Wine Tasting Tours: Val di Chiana is famous for its vineyards, and visitors can take guided tours of local wineries to sample some of the region’s best wines.
  • Cooking Classes: Learn how to make traditional Tuscan dishes from local chefs and take home some new culinary skills.
  • Historical Walking Tours: Explore the rich cultural heritage of Monte San Savino with guided walking tours of the town’s historic landmarks.
  • Hot Air Balloon Rides: Soar over the beautiful countryside of Tuscany for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Week-Long Itinerary for Monte San Savino

To help you plan your trip, here’s a sample week-long itinerary for exploring Monte San Savino and the surrounding region:

Day 1: Arrival in Monte San Savino, check into hotel and explore the town center. Day 2: Take a guided tour of the Palazzo Comunale and Museo Civico. Afternoon wine tasting tour of Val di Chiana. Day 3: Hiking or biking excursion in the Parco Nazionale delle Foreste Casentinesi. Day 4: Full day excursion to nearby towns such as Arezzo and Cortona. Day 5: Cooking class in the morning and hot air balloon ride in the afternoon. Day 6: Leisurely day exploring the countryside, taking in the beautiful scenery of Val di Chiana. Day 7: Departure day, with time for some last-minute shopping and souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Monte San Savino

Monte San Savino is known for its excellent food and drink scene, with a wide variety of local specialties to try. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pici alla ragù: A traditional Tuscan pasta dish made with a hearty meat sauce.
  • Ribollita: A thick soup made with bread, beans, and seasonal vegetables.
  • Bistecca alla Fiorentina: A thick, juicy steak cooked over an open flame and served with roasted potatoes.

Local Beverages

  • Chianti: This famous red wine is produced in the Chianti region of Tuscany, which includes Val di Chiana.
  • Vin Santo: A sweet dessert wine made from sun-dried grapes.
  • Grappa: A strong, distilled spirit made from grape pomace, often served as a digestif after meals.

Where to Stay in Monte San Savino: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Monte San Savino offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some recommendations:

  • Villa San Lucchese: This elegant hotel is located in a historic villa just outside of Monte San Savino and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • B&B Il Pozzo: A charming bed and breakfast located in the heart of Monte San Savino, offering comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast.
  • Agriturismo La Terra: A cozy farmhouse that offers guests the chance to experience rural Tuscany, with beautiful views and home-cooked meals.

What to Buy in Monte San Savino: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Monte San Savino is known for its artisanal products, from handcrafted leather goods to locally produced wines and olive oils. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home:

  • Leather goods: Monte San Savino is famous for its high-quality leather products, including bags, belts, and shoes.
  • Olive oil: Tuscany is known for its excellent olive oil, and visitors can bring home bottles of the region’s finest.
  • Handmade ceramics: The region is known for its colorful, hand-painted ceramics, which make beautiful souvenirs and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Monte San Savino

Monte San Savino is a small town with a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Dress modestly when visiting churches or other religious sites.
  • Italians have a strong sense of personal space; avoid standing too close or touching strangers.
  • It’s customary to greet people with “buongiorno” (“good morning”) or “buonasera” (“good evening”) in passing.

Best Time to Visit Monte San Savino

The best time to visit Monte San Savino is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-June) and fall (September-November), when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thinner. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be rainy and cold, with fewer tourist activities available.

Do’s and Don’ts of Monte San Savino

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and wines.
  • Do take part in cultural activities and traditional events.
  • Do speak Italian phrases, even if it’s just a greeting.

Don’t:

  • Don’t expect everyone to speak English.
  • Don’t ignore local customs and traditions.
  • Don’t forget to dress appropriately for churches and other religious sites.

Safety and Health

Safety in Monte San Savino

Monte San Savino is a safe place to visit, with low crime rates and a friendly, welcoming community. However, visitors should still take common-sense precautions, such as locking their doors and securing personal belongings when out in public.

Health in Monte San Savino

Tuscany has an excellent healthcare system, with hospitals and clinics located throughout the region. Visitors should purchase travel insurance before their trip and bring any necessary medication or prescriptions with them.

Getting to Monte San Savino: Transportation Options and Logistics

Monte San Savino is easily accessible by car, train, or bus. Here are some transportation options to consider:

Airports Near Monte San Savino

  • Florence Airport: Located about an hour and a half drive from Monte San Savino.
  • Pisa Airport: Located about two hours’ drive from Monte San Savino.

Bus Stations Near Monte San Savino

  • Monte San Savino Bus Station: Located in the town center, offering regional connections.

Other Options

  • Train: Monte San Savino train station is located on the main Florence-Rome line, with regular connections to both cities.
  • Car: Monte San Savino is easily accessible by car, with major highways connecting Val di Chiana to other parts of Tuscany and Italy.

How to Get Around in Monte San Savino

Monte San Savino is a small town that can easily be explored on foot, but visitors may also opt to rent a car or bike to explore the surrounding countryside or take public transportation to nearby cities.

Where to Go Next from Monte San Savino: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Monte San Savino is an excellent base for exploring the stunning region of Val di Chiana and other nearby destinations in Tuscany. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Arezzo: A beautiful medieval city famous for its artistic heritage and stunning cathedral.
  • Cortona: A charming hilltop town with Etruscan roots, great food, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Pienza: A UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its beautiful Renaissance architecture and delicious pecorino cheese.

Conclusion

Monte San Savino is a beautiful destination in Tuscany that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to plan a memorable trip to Monte San Savino and make the most of your time in this charming town.