Private half day tour to Siena from Florence with the comfort of your private driver to discover and eperience the atmospheres, the most beautiful corners, attractions and highlights of Siena with your private local guide.
Your private morning or afternoon half-day tour to Siena, whose medieval core is recognized by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, begins at your Florence hotel where your driver will greet you before taking you to Siena.
Once you arrive in Siena, you will be greeted by your personal guide who will take you on a walking tour of the city's top sights and provide you with a thorough introduction to the culture and traditions of this charming medieval city.
You can learn about Siena's history and traditions while visiting the Church of San Domenico, which houses the relics of Saint Catherine; the Fonte Gaia, the culmination of the network of pipes carrying water to the city's core, is located near the northwest corner of the Piazza del Campo; and the Piazza del Campo, which is shaped like a shell and is where the Palazzo Pubblico with Lorenzetti's frescoes, as well as other noble palaces and the Torre del Mangia are located. Siena's historic center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
A "must do" when visiting Siena is to see the Duomo, a spectacular cathedral constructed in Tuscan Gothic style. The pulpit of the Duomo was sculpted by Nicola Pisano between the end of 1265 and November 1268, and the inlaid marble mosaic floor inside is one of the most elaborate of its kind in Italy.
The Ospedale of Santa Maria della Scala, one of Europe's oldest hospitals and a museum, is situated in front of the Duomo.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Pick up at your hotel in Florence
- Siena Cathedral, San Domenico Church, Piazza del Campo
- Private walking tour with your own guide in Siena
- Drop off at your hotel in Florence
DETAILS
Duration:
5 hours
Start Time Private Tour:
Morning or Afternoon
Pick up Point:
At the lobby of your Hotel in Florence centre
Inclusion:
- 2 hour walking tour with your own personal expert guide in Siena.
- Private Mercedes E series car (for your party from 1 to 2 persons)
- Private Mercedes Minivan (for your party from 3 to 6 persons)
- Professional English speaking driver.
Exclusions:
- Gratuities (optional),
- Admission fees to churches and museums
- Meals and Beverage
On Request:
Rates for more of 6 persons
F.A.Q.
- What is the history of the horse race in Siena Italy?
The horse race in Siena, Italy, known as the Palio di Siena, has a long and rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The Palio is a biannual event held in the city's historic Piazza del Campo, attracting thousands of spectators from around the world.
The origins of the Palio trace back to the medieval period when Siena was divided into different contrade, or neighborhoods, each with its own distinct identity and allegiances. The first recorded Palio race took place in 1656, although similar horse races were likely held in the city even earlier.
The race is held twice a year, on July 2nd (Palio di Provenzano) and August 16th (Palio dell'Assunta), coinciding with the Feast of the Visitation and the Feast of the Assumption, respectively. The races are fiercely competitive, with jockeys representing the various contrade riding bareback around the Piazza del Campo.
The race itself lasts only about 90 seconds, but the excitement and anticipation leading up to it are palpable. The winning contrada earns considerable bragging rights and celebrations, often lasting for days or even weeks.
The Palio is not just a horse race; it's a deeply ingrained cultural tradition that embodies the spirit and identity of Siena. The contrade invest significant resources in training their horses and jockeys and take immense pride in their victories.
Over the centuries, the Palio has evolved, but its essence remains the same—a thrilling spectacle that brings together the people of Siena to celebrate their history, traditions, and community spirit.