Last summer, I lived the fantasy in Sarteano, a charming little town in the heart of Tuscany, staying at a friend’s stunning villa with a private pool and chef. Whether planning a luxury splurge or exploring on a budget, here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing Sarteano like a pro. I will make it a point to explore other parts of Tuscany this year and the coming ones.
Why Sarteano Should Be on Your Tuscany Bucket List
Sarteano is a small gem nestled between Chiusi and Montepulciano. It’s quieter than Florence or Siena but brimming with authentic Italian charm. Lots of greenery and elegant Italian Cypress trees. The cobblestone streets, ancient Etruscan ruins, and friendly locals make it a perfect escape from the usual tourist traps.
Pro Tip: Visit the Castello di Sarteano. This medieval fortress sits on a hill with panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, especially at sunset—an absolute must for your Instagram feed!
The Best Time to Visit Tuscany
For the best experience, visit between May and September. These months are sunny skies, warm temperatures, and bustling summer energy. My favorite thing was being woken up by singing birds every morning compared to cars hooting and ambulance sirens in Milan, hahaha. If you prefer fewer crowds, aim for May or September when the weather is still glorious, but the streets are quieter, and prices for accommodations are lower.
Where to Stay: Villas, Hotels, and Airbnbs
Sarteano has options for all budgets. Here are my top picks:
• Luxury Travelers: Book a private villa with a pool and chef. Check out options for luxury villas on Trip.com or Expedia.com.
• Mid-Budget Travelers: Look for boutique hotels in Sarteano, like La Gustea Hotel & Cucina. You can browse and book hotels on Expedia.com.
• Budget Travelers: Check Trip.com or Expedia.com for charming and affordable Airbnb or budget-friendly hotels in Sarteano and nearby towns.
What to Wear in Tuscany: Outfit Inspiration
Tuscany summers can be extremely warm, so pack breathable fabrics and chic accessories for photos because, trust me, you will take pictures. During my trip, I lived in sundresses, wide-brimmed hats, and comfy sandals. For exploring Sarteano, sneakers are a must, or comfortable flat sandals—cobblestones aren’t heel-friendly!
Shop My Looks:
• This breezy sundress was a villa favorite! Shop it on SHEIN
• For all-day walking comfort, I relied on these sandals ( even though they are not visible in the photo) also, they have a tiny heel, which makes them very comfortable. Stick to flat sandals or sneakers if you are not used to heels. Shop them on Amazon
• Wide-brim hats are chic and practical, I couldn’t find the exact one with the gold chain, however, I found the same with a black band. Grab one on Amazon
How to Budget Your Trip
Here’s a breakdown to help you plan:
• Luxury: $400–$600 per night for a villa + $150/day for a private chef, however you can opt-out to cook for yourself by buying fresh produce at the market or eating out.
• Mid-Budget: $150–$250 per night for a boutique hotel + $40/day for meals.
• Budget: $60–$100 per night for an Airbnb + $25/day for meals (grocery stores or food markets are your friend!).
Transportation Tip: Renting a car is essential in Tuscany to explore freely. Book a car through Trip.com to find great deals.
Food and Dining in Sarteano
Since we had a private chef (fancy, I know), we mostly ate at the villa, but there are some incredible local spots worth checking out:
• Osteria da Gagliano: For classic Tuscan dishes.
• La Locanda dei Tintori: A cozy spot with great pasta.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the local wines—Chianti and Montepulciano are standouts!
Swimming and Relaxing at Your Villa
One of the highlights of my trip was spending lazy afternoons by the pool. Whether you’re staying at a villa or a hotel with a pool, make this part of your itinerary. Pack a cute swimsuit, a good book, and SPF because the Tuscan sun doesn’t mess around.
Shop My Poolside Must-Haves:
• My go-to kimono: Find it on SHEIN
• This sunscreen was a lifesaver: Shop it on Amazon
Tips for Solo Travelers and Adventure Seekers
Tuscany isn’t just for couples or families. If you’re traveling solo:
• Stay in a lively town like Chiusi to meet other travelers.
• Join a wine or cooking tour (easy to book via Trip.com).
• Rent a bike and explore Tuscany’s scenic routes—it’s adventure and cardio rolled into one! and you get to discover hidden gems this way!
Final Thoughts: Tuscany Is for Everyone, and I highly recommend it
Sarteano captured my heart, and I can’t recommend it enough, whether you’re craving luxury or adventure. From swimming in a villa pool to wandering ancient streets, this Tuscan escape was pure magic.
Ready to book your Tuscan getaway? Check out accommodation and transportation deals on Trip.com and Expedia.com. Don’t forget to shop my travel looks for effortless style during your trip!
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