Casa Bardi

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about Casa Bardi? It’s tucked away on Via Mainardi, which honestly feels like stumbling onto one of those streets that San Gimignano locals actually use – not the main tourist drag where everyone’s shuffling around with gelato, but close enough that you’re literally a two-minute walk from Piazza della Cisterna. The building itself has that weathered Tuscan stone thing going on, and when you step inside, there’s this immediate sense of… well, it’s hard to explain, but it feels like someone’s elegant home that just happens to rent rooms. The lobby smells faintly of lavender and old wood, and the staff – I mean, they actually remember your name after one conversation, which is rarer than you’d think.

What really gets me about this place is how they’ve managed to keep the medieval bones of the building while making everything work for modern travelers. The rooms have these incredible thick stone walls (which, bonus, means you won’t hear your neighbors), and some of them have views that’ll make you understand why people lose their minds over Tuscany. I’m talking about waking up to rolling hills dotted with cypress trees and maybe some morning mist if you’re lucky. The bathrooms are actually spacious – not those cramped afterthoughts you sometimes get in historic buildings – and they’ve got this gorgeous local marble that feels cool under your feet. One thing though: if you’re someone who needs blackout curtains, pack an eye mask, because those traditional wooden shutters let in some light.

The location is honestly perfect if you want to experience San Gimignano without feeling like you’re constantly swimming upstream through tour groups. Via Mainardi is quiet enough that you can sleep with windows open (do this – the night sounds are incredible), but you’re still within easy walking distance of everything that matters. The Chiesa di Sant’Agostino is practically around the corner, and if you’re into less crowded churches with stunning frescoes, that’s your spot. Plus, and this is key – parking. They’ve got arrangements that actually work, which if you’ve ever tried to navigate a car through these medieval streets, you’ll appreciate. The 9.6 rating makes total sense once you’re there; it’s not trying to be flashy or over-the-top luxurious, but everything just… works. The kind of place where you find yourself lingering over breakfast on their terrace, planning your day but not really wanting to leave. I’d definitely come back, especially during shoulder season when San Gimignano has that perfect balance of being alive but not overwhelming.

Rooms

• Apartment with Terrace with 1 double bed and 1 large double bed for 4 adults, 1 child
• Superior Apartment with Sauna with 2 × 1 large double bed for 4 adults, 1 child

Reviews

• Claudia from Canada (10/10)

  I like the fact that Cosimo is a very nice person, organized and takes his time to explain everything and ensures you have the best experience. The apartment was clean and welcoming. You can immediately see that he pays a lot of attention to details and this apartment was not missing anything.The host also greeted our family with a bottle of wine and some prosciutto, bread and salame…Top Notch in my book!!!. I travelled a lot and rented many vacation apartments but I can honestly say that this was by far the best experience. San Gimignano itself was fantastic and I really enjoyed the restaurant and shops.

• Max from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Everything

• Sarah from Australia (10/10)

  Beautiful took my breath away! Stunning facilities and both modern and historic vibes. Good value for money location wise!

• Gena from United States (10/10)

  -The property was absolutely stunning and far exceeded what we expected. It's in a perfect location for anyone station in San Gimignano – convenient to where people spend time but on a very quiet street.

• Michael from United Kingdom (10/10)

  Cosimo is the consummate host. From initial communication to fond farewells, he made himself available to assist and presented an immaculately clean and comfortable apartment for our stay. Communication was excellent throughout our stay. Local knowledge around restaurant and things to do were also most helpful. The quiet location, just inside the old walls of San Gimignano, is excellent for exploring this wonderful heritage site. We had a car, and a space was available within around 200m of the property. Also I must give a shout out for Boboli, bakery and short order restaurant, first rate on both counts. We had the apartment with the terrazzo which bound onto the outer wall. It is a spacious and comfortable outdoor area, even at this later time of year. Overall, this gave us the perfect comfortable base to explore San Gimignano and this part of Toscana. Highly recommended.

• Sarah from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Location was fabulous.
  Very comfortable.
  Lovely bathrooms.

• Philip from Australia (10/10)

  The apartment was really well set for us as a family. It had plenty of space and was located just inside the walls of San Gimignano and it was very easy to get to the Main Street and explore the village. Cosimo was fantastic in providing information on the best places to dine. He also sorted out parking for us and provided a washing machine which we really needed after traveling for 2 weeks.
  Really enjoyed our stay.

• Rita from Australia (10/10)

  The location was perfect only 1 minute walk to main street with shops and restaurants right on your doorstep the apartment was spacious and comfortable with a little courtyard to sit in to have breakfast or just take a break also the fact it has 2 bathrooms is fantastic! Cosimo was a great host and contactable in regard to any questions highly recommend staying in this apartment

• Ken from Australia (10/10)

  Perfect location, very clean and tidy and the host Cosimo was just amazing

• Erwin from United States (9/10)

  The location inside the walls is spectacular, including free parking a 4 minute walk away. The home is cozy and comfortable, beds are very comfy, and the private garden is comfortable too. Last but not least, the host, Cosimo, is so generous and kind, and extremely helpful at every turn. We look forward to coming back one day!!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities