Siena Educational activities

Our most recommended Siena Educational activities

Siena: Siena Cathedral and Piccolomini Library Entry Ticket

Siena: Siena Cathedral and Piccolomini Library Entry Ticket

Benefit from fast-track entry to Siena Cathedral and admire its stunning interior artwork and architecture. Walk along the cathedral's ornate marble mosaic floor, and visit the Piccolomini Library, known for its collection of vibrant frescoes. Skip the line and enter the cathedral to explore one of the foremost masterpieces of Renaissance art and architecture in Italy. Marvel at elaborate altarpieces, a sculpture by Michelangelo, and all manner of ornate decorations scattered throughout its vast interior. Enter the Piccolomini Library, which contains a sprawling series of 10 frescoes by Pinturicchio chronicling the life of Pope Pius II. Gaze upwards at the domed ceiling, masterfully adorned with complex patterns and further scenes from the pope’s life. During your visit, listen to an official audio guide to learn about Siena Cathedral and its history and art. The audio guide is accessed by scanning a QR code on your cellphone on the day of your visit.

Florence: Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch

Florence: Pisa, Siena and San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch

Experience the wonders of Tuscany on one memorable day. Leave Florence for a 12-hour excursion and see the beautiful landscapes, architecture, and artworks of the region. Treat yourself to some local cuisine, and choose a guided tour in your language to learn even more about the historic area. Reach easily our meeting point by taking the T1.3 tram heading to Villa Costanza. Begin with Pisa and visit its stunning Piazza dei Miracoli. Admire the Baptistery, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, and, of course, the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. After your free time in Pisa, head to a typical Tuscan winery in the Chianti Area and enjoy a delicious lunch with some local wine. Explore the city of Siena and visit to Piazza del Campo, where the Palio di Siena horse race is run, and Piazza del Duomo, where you will see the exterior of the magnificent cathedral. Enjoy your last stop in San Gimignano, a UNESCO medieval town, world-known for its Vernaccia di San Gimignano. The system of towers of San Gimignano tells the glories of the powerful families. Between saffron fields and typical indigenous vineyards, the city knows how to offer postcard views.

Florence: Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti Day Trip

Florence: Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti Day Trip

Spend the day discovering many of the main highlights of the Tuscan countryside on this guided tour with a traditional Italian lunch included. Make your way through the rolling hills as you discover the charm of Pisa, San Gimignano, and Siena. Your first stop will be Pisa and the Square of Miracles. See the cathedral, baptistery, and, of course, the famous Leaning Tower. The Leaning Tower is almost 56 meters tall, about 183 feet, and leans at about 4 degrees, making it one of the most famous and iconic buildings in the world.  From Pisa, drive past hilltop hamlets scattered across some of the most beautiful and enchanting areas of the countryside. Arrive at San Gimignano where a traditional Tuscan lunch with wine pairing will be served, if the option is selected. Continue to the preserved medieval village of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage site often nicknamed the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” because of its famous tall, narrow towers. Explore the town center and the charming craftsmen shops along the cobbled stone streets and small squares. End the tour in Siena, a hilltop town rich in art and traditions. Stroll the pedestrian historical center and visit the beautiful local cathedral. Take a guided walking tour (if option selected) along the small medieval streets and squares, passing the oldest bank in the world, and the Piazza del Campo.

Siena: Cathedral Complex Pass with Audio Guide (OPA SI PASS)

Siena: Cathedral Complex Pass with Audio Guide (OPA SI PASS)

Make the most of your time at the Siena Duomo with an inclusive ticket allowing you to access all areas excluding the rooftop. Discover the history of the complex as you listen to informative commentary on the included audio guide. Enter the Duomo and admire its grand scale as you stroll along its mosaic marble floor. Admire sculptures such as The Feast of Herod by Donatello and St. Paul by Michaelangelo among other artworks which are dotted around the cathedral. Visit the Baptistery of San Giovanni within the Duomo to marvel at the splendid Baptismal Font. From here, head down into the Crypt, the underground quarters that remained hidden for more than seven centuries. Then, stroll through the Piccolomini Library and gaze up at the vibrant and colorful frescoes which adorn its walls. Admire the stunning work by Pinturicchio, which depicts ten episodes from the life of Pope Pius II. Access the Museo dell'Opera which houses a selection of archaeological fragments and artwork once part of the cathedral. See a variety of Gothic sculptures by Giovanni Pisano and paintings by Ambrogio and Pietro Lorenzetti. Head into the Oratory of San Bernardino to admire the collection of the Diocesan Museum of Religious Art, with its core at the upper oratory chapel. Discover a variety of Siennese paintings from between the 13th to the 18th century. Finish up your visit to the complex with a climb up to the Facciatone viewpoint. Be enchanted by the unforgettable view over the city of Siena and the beautiful rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside.                                                                                            

Florence: S. Gimignano, Siena, Chianti & Wine Tasting Lunch

Florence: S. Gimignano, Siena, Chianti & Wine Tasting Lunch

Embark on a scenic guided tour from Florence to the charming Tuscan towns of San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and Siena, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Stroll around the historic villages and enjoy a delicious Chianti Hills wine and balsamic vinegar tasting. Upgrade your experience with tickets to Siena Cathedral. Start at San Gimignano, the world-famous walled town located on a hilltop, which has remained intact through the centuries and is known for its tall towers, frescoes, and many other works of art. Take around 2 hours of free time to explore the city center. Visit the historical walled hamlet of Monteriggioni. Cross Chianti’s rolling hills to a cozy winery where you can relax and enjoy three wines, followed by a Chianti-style three-course lunch. Enjoy a guided tour of Siena’s historic center (if selected in the option), starting with the 13th-century Basilica of San Domenico. Stroll along the narrow medieval streets of the city, flanked by splendid palaces and historic shops. Pass through the Piazza del Campo and visit the cathedral, if you select the option.  Take some free time in Siena before returning to Florence. The order of the visit may change. (*) From November to March, the itinerary does not include the stop at Monteriggioni and the return to Florence is approx 30 minutes earlier

From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano & Monteriggioni Tour

From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano & Monteriggioni Tour

Experience the charm of Tuscany on a day trip to Siena, San Gimignano, and Monteriggioni from Florence. Try a variety of Chianti wines paired with snacks and admire the picturesque Tuscan hills.  Cross the beautiful Chianti hills as you ride south from Florence in an air-conditioned GT bus. The first stop is at Monteriggioni, a medieval hilltop town that is famous for its intact medieval city walls. After some free time, head to the world famous Siena. Explore the Piazza del Campo, that is known for the Palio Horse Race and for its splendid examples of Gothic civic architecture. Have time to visit the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico.  Arrive in San Gimignano, a medieval town declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Take time to wind your way through the narrow streets and admire the lush landscape. Finally, head to the Chianti area and enjoy postcard-perfect landscapes. Conclude your day at a famous wine estate and taste fine Chianti red wine along with homemade snacks.

Florence: Skip-the-Line Duomo Tour and Giotto's Bell Tower

Florence: Skip-the-Line Duomo Tour and Giotto's Bell Tower

Discover Florence’s most iconic landmarks with skip-the-line access and the exclusivity of a small group tour, led by an expert local guide. Experience the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and its stunning architectural companions without the hassle of waiting in line. Begin your journey with privileged skip-the-line access to the breathtaking Cathedral. Step inside this architectural masterpiece and admire its stunning frescoes, intricate details, and awe-inspiring history. Your expert guide will reveal the secrets and hidden gems of this world-renowned landmark, making your visit both enriching and unforgettable. Next, visit the Baptistery of St. John, one of Florence’s oldest and most revered monuments. Enter effortlessly to marvel at its dazzling golden mosaic ceiling and the renowned Gates of Paradise. Your guide will bring these intricate masterpieces to life, explaining their artistic significance and historical impact. Continue with a stroll through Piazza del Duomo, the heart of Florence. Take in the grandeur of this historic square, surrounded by some of the city's most iconic architectural wonders. Your guide will share insights into the rich history and cultural significance of the area. Explore the treasures of the Duomo Museum, where history and art converge. Marvel at the original Baptistery Gates, Donatello’s sculptures, and Michelangelo’s Pietà Bandini. Your guide will highlight the most significant works, helping you appreciate the history and craftsmanship behind these timeless pieces. Conclude your tour at Giotto’s Bell Tower, a stunning Gothic masterpiece. With pre-reserved tickets, climb the tower at your own pace, admiring the intricate sculptures and colorful marble along the way. At the top, take in the breathtaking panoramic views of Florence and Tuscany—a perfect finale to your skip-the-line experience. With our small group format and fast-track access, enjoy an intimate and hassle-free journey through Florence’s most treasured sites, ensuring you make the most of every moment in this historic city.

From Florence: Tuscany Day Trip with Lunch at Chianti winery

From Florence: Tuscany Day Trip with Lunch at Chianti winery

Begin your journey of Tuscany at Florence’s central train station, where you will be greeted by your guide who will take care of you throughout the day.  Head straight to Siena, Italy’s most picturesque medieval city, whereupon arrival your guide will take you on a walking tour. Look up to admire the lovely terracotta roofs adorning the buildings and marvel at the magnificent Gothic and Romanesque architecture of the main cathedral.   Next, head to the hilltop town of San Gimignano, a UNESCO world heritage site, famous for the tower houses built in the Middle Ages. Enjoy free time here to see its splendid squares, palaces, churches, and magnificent towers. The last stop on your Tuscan excursion is a visit to Pisa and its iconic leaning tower. Take a stroll through the Piazza dei Miracoli and see other marvelous monuments, before driving back to Florence. Best of all, choose from either a small-group or private guided experience to make your trip special. Choose the lunch option to enjoy a homemade lunch paired with an informal wine tasting at a traditional wine estate in the Chianti wine region. Savor 4 regional wines at lunch and learn about their unique production techniques. Feast on an organic, farmhouse meal while you overlook the rolling vineyards under the Tuscan sun.

Siena: Palazzo Pubblico Entry Ticket

Siena: Palazzo Pubblico Entry Ticket

Enter the Palazzo Pubblico of Siena and visit the Civic Museum with this entry ticket. Located inside the Palazzo Pubblico, the Civic Museum is a 13th-century building home to impressive wall-to-wall fresco paintings. Explore the museum to learn about the history of Siena and see precious artifacts. Exchange your voucher for an entry ticket at the ticket office and begin your visit in the Sala del Risorgimento. This room hosts fresco paintings that depict the life of Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of Italy. Walkthrough the Sala di Balìa and see wall paintings from the 15th-century by Spinello Aretino and Martino di Bartolomeo. Also, see the Sala dei Cardinali where precious carved coffers keep reliquaries. Move forward to the Sala del Concistoro, famous for its Beccafumi vault, and see Taddeo di Bartolo's 15th-century Cappella. Continue on to the Sala del Mappamondo, the widest room of the Palazzo Pubblico and used as the meeting place of the General Council. See the famous Maestà, a Gothic masterpiece painted by Simone Martini. The museum entry ticket also includes a visit to the 14th-century gallery, Loggia dei Nove, which offers a beautiful view of the landscape behind Palazzo Pubblico.

Florence: Siena & San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch & Wine

Florence: Siena & San Gimignano Day Trip with Lunch & Wine

Embark on our enchanting Siena and San Gimignano Day Trip from Florence, ensuring comfort in a private, air-conditioned coach through scenic Tuscany. Our expert guide will first unveil Siena's medieval secrets before offering you free time to soak in the local vibe. In the Chianti hills, relish a culinary oasis at a renowned restaurant, exploring an Organic Winery's wine cellars and enjoying a delectable lunch with exquisite wine pairings. Next, delve into San Gimignano's medieval charm with free time to explore its iconic towers and narrow streets. Your return to Florence marks the end of an unforgettable day, with personalized insights and comfort seamlessly woven into every step. Experience the allure of Siena and San Gimignano with us, where history, food, wine and culture converge for an unforgettable Tuscan adventure.

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What people are saying about Siena

Overall rating

4.4
(18 reviews)

This was our first time in Siena, and it absolutely blew us away. It’s such a beautiful city, rich in history and culture. Taking this tour gave us a deeper appreciation of what we were seeing and how the city has evolved over time. The dedication to preserving their traditions, including the Palio, is truly remarkable. The people of Siena take immense pride in their heritage, and it’s inspiring to see how deeply connected they are to their city's history. Our guide was fantastic, covering all the key sites and even taking some great photos for us. Since it was the low season, we had the tour all to ourselves, making it a much more personalized experience. The Duomo is a true masterpiece—its intricate flooring, stunning walls, and the stories behind them make it a must-see when visiting Siena.

This was such a wonderful experience. We made amazing food, and learned so much! The farmhouse is beautiful and charming. It was such a relaxed and happy environment. One of the best things we have done during our 20 day trip to Italy. Fantastic for adults and kids. Simone was fantastic. Kind, helpful, patient, funny and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!

Unforgettable experience that I would do a thousand times! Beautiful location and fortunately we caught a wonderful day. Thanks to Chef Simone, passionate about cooking able to share his passion together with notions and curiosities, with so much sympathy! Highly recommended.

A great walking food & wine tour through Siena! Five stops, all well selected with perfect food and wine choices. Jacopa, our guide was a wonderful host with great selections and pacing. Highly recommended!

Went in January which I guess is off season so I was able to see everything early without crowding.