Private day tour from Florence to visit Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano with your personal private driver through the beautiful landscape of the Tuscan countryside.
Your day tour begins in the morning from your hotel in Florence, where your driver will greet you and take you on a private tour of the wonderful Tuscan cities of Siena, San Gimignano and Pisa where you will have time to visit the towns at your own pace.
In Siena you will enjoy the best attractions admiring the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, with the Palazzo Pubblico and its tall Torre del Mangia. Built in the early 1300s, the square is the main public space in the historic center of Siena and is the square where the Palio race is held on 2 July and 16 August each year.
Very interesting in Piazza del Campo is the monumental fountain Fonte Gaia, the terminal point of the system of pipelines that in the Middle Ages carried water to the city center and various noble palaces that surround the shell-shaped square.
The Church of San Domenico also called Basilica Cateriniana, Fonte Branda which in the Middle Ages was one of the main sources of water in the city, the ancient Palazzo Salimbeni in Gothic style today the headquarters of the Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank and Palazzo Tolomei one of the oldest of Siena.
Your driver, driving through the rolling Tuscan hills, will take you to San Gimignano and Pisa.
San Gimignano is a small medieval village immersed in the Tuscan countryside with its characteristic skyline. The towers of San Gimignano, the medieval skyscrapers, are visible from miles away.
The origins of San Gimignano are very ancient, born as a small Etruscan village, then the city developed considerably during the Middle Ages thanks to pilgrims traveling from western France to Rome since San Gimignano was located on the Via Francigena.
At your own pace, a walk in the city to discover the city with breathtaking views, many shops and art galleries, silver and ceramic artisans.
The main attractions of San Gimignano are the Collegiata, a Romanesque cathedral with its splendid frescoes by Ghirlandaio and other masters; the church of Sant'Agostino with frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli; the archaeological museums with Etruscan and Roman finds that illustrate the origin of the city; The old medieval public washhouses.
A stop in Piazza della Cisterna is a must to taste the best ice cream in town.
In Pisa, stop in Piazza dei Miracoli or Campo dei Miracoli, considered one of the most beautiful architectural complexes in the world and declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987.
In the Field of Miracles of Pisa you will admire the stunning Leaning Tower, the Duomo and the Baptistery. All within the walled area of the Miracles square.
DETAILS
Duration:
11 hours
Departure Time:
Morning
Pick up and drop off point:
At the lobby of your hotel in Florence
Price include:
- Private Mercedes E series Car (for your party from 1 to 2 people).
- Private Mercedes Minivan (for your party from 3 to 6 people).
- Professional English speaking driver
- Pay tolls, gasoline, taxes
Price does not include:
- Gratuities (optional)
- Meals and Beverage
- Entrance admission fees to churches and museums
On request:
- Prices for more of 6 people
- Private guide in Siena
- Private guide in San Gimignano
F.A.Q.
- What is the significance of Palio di Siena?
The Palio di Siena holds immense significance for the city of Siena and its residents. Here are some key aspects of its significance:
1. Cultural Heritage: The Palio is deeply ingrained in Sienese culture and tradition, dating back to the medieval period. It reflects the city's rich history, community spirit, and identity.
2. Community Cohesion: The Palio fosters a strong sense of community among the residents of Siena. The city is divided into 17 contrade, each with its own distinct traditions, symbols, and rivalries. The Palio serves as a focal point for these contrade, bringing people together to celebrate their shared heritage and compete in friendly rivalry.
3. Symbol of Identity: Each contrada takes immense pride in its participation in the Palio. Winning the race is a matter of great honor and prestige for the victorious contrada, symbolizing their strength, unity, and identity.
4. Historical Continuity: The Palio has been celebrated for centuries, making it one of the oldest continuously held events in the world. Its longevity and endurance through the ages contribute to its significance as a symbol of continuity and tradition.
5. Tourism and Economy: The Palio attracts thousands of tourists to Siena, contributing significantly to the local economy. Hotels, restaurants, shops, and other businesses benefit from the influx of visitors who come to witness the spectacle of the race and participate in the festivities.
6. Art and Pageantry: The Palio is not just a horse race; it's a grand spectacle of pageantry, featuring colorful costumes, processions, and traditional rituals. It showcases the artistic and cultural heritage of Siena and adds to the allure of the event.
7. Spirit of Competition: The Palio embodies the competitive spirit of the Sienese people. The intense rivalry between the contrade fuels excitement and anticipation, making the race a thrilling and emotionally charged event for both participants and spectators.
Overall, the Palio di Siena is a multifaceted event that encompasses cultural, social, historical, and economic significance, making it one of the most iconic and cherished traditions of the city.