Overview
From San Gimignano to Siena - this will be a lovely day!
Your itinerary choices are your own. Stop and start as you like or use your driver for his knowledge of the area, which he knows well.
Your journey begins as we travel to San Gimignano, a town that rises up on a hill, dominating the Elsa Valley with its towers dating back to the 11th century. The town increased in wealth and developed greatly during the Middle Ages, but, in 1348, the population was drastically reduced by the Black Death Plague, leading eventually to its submission to Florence in 1353. In the following centuries, San Gimignano overcame its decline and isolation when its beauty and cultural importance, together with its agricultural heritage, were rediscovered.
While there, you'll spend time admiring the famous towers, as well as exploring the Duomo, or Collegiate Church, the Palazzo del Popolo, and Palazzo Nuovo del Podestà (now the town hall), and other fascinating sights. If you're brave, check out the infamous Museum of Torture, which displays early instruments of torture and reminds everyone that cruelty and violence existed even way back then. On a lighter note, there are numerous shops that sell local products, including Vernaccia wine.
Continuing on to Siena, you'll immediately notice an ancient and mysterious atmosphere in the narrow streets and squares. Draped on its three hills, Siena is a very beautiful city--a flamboyant medieval ensemble of places and towers cast in warm, brown, Siena-coloured bricks. Its soaring skyline is its pride, along with the gothic cathedral (Duomo), the taut needle of the Torre del Mangia, and the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. The Palio horserace, a bareback horse race that was first recorded in 1283, takes place here every summer.
- The price of this tour includes a private vehicle and wonderful English-speaking driver for the day. It does not include any admissions, food, beverages, or gratuities.
- Your English-speaking driver is able to give a general guideline and history of places and all major monuments while you are in the car. Being a native, he is very knowledgeable, and will be able to suggest the perfect itinerary to suit your needs.
- Please note that this tour is for hotel guests staying in the city of Florence only. If you are coming in on a cruise ship, please see our offerings in LIVORNO.
- Please note that on the first Sunday of each month many tourist sites in Italy have free admission. This can often result in long lines. If you are staying at a hotel, it may be beneficial to avoid booking a tour involving inside visits to major attractions on these days. If you have questions, contact ShoreTrips.
Days offered: 7 days a week
Departures:- 09:00 AM, duration: 8 hours
