Last summer, I experienced the charm of Sarteano, a small town in Tuscany. I stayed at a friend’s villa with a private pool and chef. Are you planning a luxury trip or travelling on a budget? This guide will help you experience Sarteano like a pro.
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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. There is lots of greenery and elegant Italian cypress trees. Sarteano offers cobblestone streets and Etruscan ruins. The friendly locals make it a great escape from tourist crowds.
Pro Tip: Visit the Castello di Sarteano, a medieval fortress on a hill. It offers panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, especially stunning at sunset. This spot is perfect 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. I loved waking up to singing birds every morning. It was a refreshing change from car horns and ambulance sirens in Milan.
Where to Stay: Villas, Hotels, and Airbnbs
Sarteano has options for all budgets. Here are my top picks:
• Luxury Travellers: Book a private villa with a pool and chef. Check out options for luxury villas on Trip.com or Expedia.com.
• Mid-Budget Travellers: Look for boutique hotels in Sarteano, like La Gustea Hotel & Cucina. You can browse and book hotels on Expedia.com.
• Budget travellers: They can find cheap, charming stays on Trip.com or Expedia.com. Look for Airbnbs or cheap hotels in Sarteano and nearby towns.
What to Wear in Tuscany: Outfit Inspiration
Tuscany summers are hot, so pack light fabrics and stylish accessories for photos. I lived in sundresses, hats, and sandals. Sneakers or flats are best for Sarteano’s cobblestone streets.
Shop My Looks:
• This breezy sundress was a villa favorite! Shop it on SHEIN
•For all-day walking comfort, I relied on these sandals. 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, but I found the same one 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. Or you can cook for yourself with fresh market produce or by 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 at your own pace. 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 ate most meals at the villa. Still, there are some incredible local spots worth checking out:
• Osteria da Gagliano: For classic Tuscan dishes.
• La Locanda dei Tintori: A cosy 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 Travellers and Adventure Seekers
Tuscany isn’t only for couples or families. If you are travelling solo:
• Stay in a lively town like Chiusi to meet other travellers.
• Join a wine or cooking tour (easy to book via Trip.com).
• Rent a bike and explore Tuscany’s scenic routes—it’s an adventure and cardio rolled into one! And you get to discover hidden gems this way!
Final Thoughts: Tuscany is for everyone, and I can’t recommend it enough.
Sarteano captured my heart. 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!
NB: Don’t forget to save these two Pins below and share them on Pinterest.
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