I've been reading about the crowds in Sam Gimignano, and was wondering if someone could help me with parking issues. I'm trying to plan at least the areas we will be in while driving around Chianti and Tuscany, and we want to fit S.G. in. We will be in Tuscany on May 24 and 25, which is a Thursday and a Friday. Do you think we will have trouble parking if we get there too late in the morning? What's too late? Does it clear somewhat in the afternoon? Around when? Or are we Ok on a weekday? Thanks for any help! -John

IMO, you won't have a problem - go for it. It's worth it!

We stayed in San Gimignano last May for a couple of days (midweek). There are several parking lots the ones closer to town are more expensive. The crowds tend to arrive after 10am and the town is busy until 4-5pm. We found the town was wonderful in the early morning hours and in the evening after the tourists left for the day.

Perhaps plan on staying there and spending the middle part of the day in Chianti, Sienna or Volterra. We thought the town was quite magical one the tour buses were gone.

We were there when the 'crowds' were there and still had a great time.

You can find yourself driving in circles looking for a sapce between 10 and 3pm.
There is some small lots a few blocks before you get to the walls. I think one of them even has a shuttle.
We usually go first to Volterra,have lunch there and then head back to San Gim.
Much of the crowds are moving out (especially buses).

Hi,
We visited San G on similar dates (midweek) last year, arrived late morning and it did take us a good while to find a parking space. All the carparks were pretty much full to capacity. Get there as early as you can, IMO (before 10.30 if poss).