Private walking tour of the medieval hill town of Siena, located in the heart of Tuscany and famous for the Palio, a horse race held twice a year in Piazza del Campo.
Enjoy the best of Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995, with your expert local guide in a tour to explore the most significant artistic and architectural landmarks of this medieval Tuscan city rich in art and culture and encircled by Chianti vineyards and olive tree-covered hills.
Some of the most interesting attractions in Siena are The Piazza del Campo, in the center of Siena, where look out the Palazzo Pubblico, which has frescoes by Lorenzetti, the Torre del Mangia, as well as a number of aristocratic mansions that encircle the square's conical shape.
Piazza del Campo built in the early 1300s is the main public space in the historic center of Siena and is the place where the Palio race takes place on 2 July and 16 August each year.
At the northwest of the square is the Fonte Gaia, built in medieval times, as the conclusion of the network of pipes carrying water to the city center, is located in the northwest corner of the square.
One of the most important church in Siena is the Church of San Domenico also known as Basilica Cateriniana, it was founded by the Dominicans and houses the relics of Santa Caterina, one of the two patron saints of Siena.
Near San Domenico Church there is Fonte Branda which in the Middle Ages was one of the main water sources of the city.
With your guide, the walking tour continues along the historic streets of Siena admiring the Palazzo Salimbeni built in the Gothic style is now the seat of the Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank and Palazzo Tolomei one of the oldest in Siena.
Very interesting is a stop to visit the magnificent Cathedral of Siena built in the Tuscan Gothic style is a "must do" to complete your Siena experience.
Inside the Cathedral, the inlaid marble mosaic floor is one of the most decorated of its kind in Italy and the pulpit, in Carrara marble, was sculpted between the end of 1265 and November 1268 by Nicola Pisano.
Opposite the facade of the Cathedral stands the Hospital of Santa Maria della Scala, one of the oldest hospitals in Europe, now a museum.
HIGHLIGHTS:
• Private tour with your exclusive local guide
• Visit the Church of San Domenico and the Duomo
• Admire the best of Siena named Unesco World Heritage Site
• Stroll in the Piazza del Campo where the Palio race is held twice a year
DETAILS
Duration:
3 hours
Start Time Private Tour:
Morning Tour or Afternoon Tour:
you can require whatever start time you like.
Meeting Point:
At the lobby of your hotel in Siena center or to be decided at the confirmation
Inclusion:
-Personal expert and licensed guide
Exclusions:
-Gratuities (optional)
-Admission fees to churches and museums
-Trasportation
Notes:
More of 6 persons rates on request.
On request:
Private driver to reach Siena from Florence, Lucca or Chianti countryside.
F.A.Q.
Why Siena is so famous?
Siena, a historic city located in the Tuscany region of Italy, is renowned for several reasons:
Medieval Architecture: Siena boasts a remarkably well-preserved medieval cityscape characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, Gothic cathedrals, and ancient palaces. The city's architectural beauty, including the iconic Piazza del Campo and the imposing Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena), attracts visitors from around the world.
Piazza del Campo: The heart of Siena is its main square, Piazza del Campo. This unique shell-shaped plaza is famous for hosting the Palio di Siena, a traditional horse race held twice a year in July and August. The Palio is a colorful and exhilarating event that dates back to the Middle Ages and draws spectators and participants from all over Italy.
Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena): One of the most magnificent cathedrals in Italy, the Siena Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Its facade is adorned with intricate carvings, sculptures, and mosaics, while its interior features stunning frescoes by renowned artists such as Michelangelo, Donatello, and Pisano. The cathedral's Piccolomini Library also houses a collection of illuminated manuscripts and rare books.
Art and Culture: Siena has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several world-class museums and art galleries. The Museo dell'Opera del Duomo showcases sculptures and artifacts from the Siena Cathedral, while the Pinacoteca Nazionale di Siena houses an impressive collection of Renaissance paintings by Sienese masters like Duccio, Simone Martini, and Ambrogio Lorenzetti.
Culinary Delights: Siena is renowned for its delicious Tuscan cuisine and traditional dishes. Visitors can sample local specialties such as ribollita (a hearty vegetable soup), pici pasta with wild boar sauce, and panforte (a dense fruit and nut cake). The city's bustling markets and quaint trattorias offer a taste of authentic Italian flavors.
Historical Significance: Siena has a rich history that dates back to Etruscan times. The city flourished during the Middle Ages as a prosperous trading center and rival to Florence. Its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with medieval palaces, towers, and churches that bear witness to its illustrious past.
Festivals and Events: In addition to the Palio di Siena, the city hosts a variety of festivals and cultural events throughout the year. These include the Siena Jazz Festival, the Chigiana Musical Academy's summer concert series, and the Siena International Photography Awards, which celebrate artistic expression and creativity.