Must See Hill Towns of Tuscany - Lucignano - Photographed

I first stumbled upon Lucignano while searching for our little Italian dream home. There was something magical about it from the start…its ancient stone walls embraced the town like a protective hug, and its buildings glowed in those soft, warm tones that only Tuscany seems to know. The charming city center pulled me in, but it was the quiet beauty of its winding streets that truly captured my heart. I love how the old stone walls gently guide you through the streets…so that no matter where you wander, you’ll always find yourself circling back to where you started, as if the town was gently holding you close. There is something perfect about Lucignano, it’s something you have to see, and touch and feel for yourself. It’s something you have to walk through and taste…it’s something you have to sip on and savor.

Lucignano may not be on every tourist’s radar…and that’s exactly why it’s so special. It’s the kind of place where you can walk without a map, eat without a plan, and leave with a full heart. So whether you’re planning a quiet Tuscan escape, a romantic detour, or a day trip off the beaten path, Lucignano will reward you with charm, history, a touch of magic and a sprinkling of La Dolce Vita.

My girls and I visited Lucignano in November of 2024. It was a lovely visit although I could have stayed longer :) We enjoyed a coffee and cornetto at Bar Bistrot Fuoriporta before exploring as much of the town as possible. The girls played at the park right outside Porta San Giusto before we headed back to Bar Bistrot Fuoriporta for a late lunch. We had a magical afternoon! Below are some pictures from our visit…

10 thing to see and do in Lucignano, Tuscany

1. Piazza del Tribunale & Piazza San Francesco

The heart of Lucignano’s historic center, these beautiful piazzas are surrounded by some the city’s most important building. Find a seat on the stone steps or on a nearby bench and soak in the peaceful rhythm of this lovely town.

2. Palazzo Comunale & Municipal Museum

Located in the town hall, this museum houses Lucignano’s crown jewel — the Golden Tree (L’Albero d’Oro), a 14th–15th century gold and silver reliquary (container for relics) believed to bring luck in love. The museum also features religious art, medieval artifacts, and frescoes.

3. Church of San Francesco

A Romanesque-Gothic church with a stunning sandstone facade. I love the contrast of the sandstone facade and the light blue doors….so pretty!! Inside, you’ll find important frescoes, including..

The Triumph of Death
A polyptych by Luca di Tommè
Works by Bartolo di Fredi and Taddeo di Bartolo

4. Collegiata di San Michele Arcangelo

Built on the site of an old castle, this Renaissance church welcomes you with a very beautiful and unique staircase. You can’t help but be in awe of this one! And I didn’t even get to see the inside the day we were there…haha!

5. Take a stroll through the town

This town is perfectly picturesque and made to be explored on foot. Enjoy a bite to eat and then take your time wandering through streets. And don’t worry about getting lost…Lucignano’s circular layout follows the line of its ancient walls so eventually you will find yourself right back where you began :)

6. Views from the City walls

Take a walk along the outer paths of the town and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Val di Chiana, olive groves, vineyards, and rolling Tuscan hills. It’s the perfect end to a day of exploring.

7. The Medieval Walls & Gates

Lucignano’s ancient 14th-century walls completely encircle the town. There are three main gates to enter from…

Porta San Giovanni
Porta San Giusto
Porta Murata

Walking through these gates give you a reel sense of the town’s medieval defense structure.

8. Local Artisan Shops & Boutiques

Lucignano is known for its handcrafted ceramics and ironworks, honey and jam, olive oil, and local wines including the dessert wine Vin Santo (my favorite for dipping biscotti!). Strolling through the town, you’ll find small shops where local artists still create and sell traditional wares.

9. Maggiolata Flower Festival - in may

If you visit in late May, don’t miss this magical flower festival, where the town comes alive with floral floats, parades, music, and traditional food. Italy’s festivals are something not to be missed.

10. fiera dell’olie nuovo - from late November to early December

This festival is a celebration of the new olive oil harvest. Sample freshly pressed olio nuovo, local wines, artisan bread, and traditional products while strolling by craft stalls and enjoying street performances.

Travel Tips

📍 Getting There: Lucignano is easily reached by car from Arezzo (25 min) or Siena (45 min)
🍷 Don’t Miss: A stroll through the town and a glass of local red at one of the bars or restaurants.
🕰️ Best Time to Visit: Spring for flowers and the weather, fall for harvest and the colors.