Tower of Mangia, Siena

Take a captivating journey through Siena on a guided walking tour with skip-the-line access to the Cathedral Complex. Your adventure begins in the heart of Siena Center, where you'll meet your knowledgeable guide and a small group of fellow explorers. Wander through the labyrinthine streets and charming squares of medieval Siena, soaking in the tranquility of its tucked-away corners. Immerse yourself in Siena's rich history as your guide regales you with tales of the famed Palio horse race and unveils the secrets of the Old Ghetto and Tower District. Ascend to breathtaking vantage points for panoramic vistas, capturing glimpses of the iconic Duomo and Torre del Mangia. En route to the majestic Piazza Del Campo, marvel at the architectural highlights that dot Siena's skyline, including the renowned Duomo. Discover the fascinating origins of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, shaped by the enlightened governance of the 14th century. As you meander through Siena's distinct Contrada, each representing a unique neighborhood steeped in tradition, envision the spirited rivalry that ignites during the Palio. Delve into the authentic ambiance of these vibrant communities and savor the opportunity to sample local delicacies like Ricciarelli and Panforte. Pause to admire the ornate Fonte Gaia fountain in Piazza del Campo, adorned with intricate reliefs depicting biblical scenes. Then, with our pre-arranged tickets, breeze past the queues and enter the awe-inspiring Cathedral. Traverse its hallowed halls adorned with masterpieces by Tuscan luminaries such as Duccio, Pisano, and Pinturicchio. The Cathedral houses many Renaissance highlights and the famous Piccolomini Library. Opt for an extended tour with OPA SI Pass to delve deeper into the Cathedral's treasures, including the captivating Crypt adorned with centuries-old frescoes. Learn from your guide about the ambitious vision behind the Duomo Nuovo and explore the Museo dell’Opera, home to exquisite sculptures and stained glass windows. Bid farewell to your guide and seize the opportunity to ascend the Facciatone, the unfinished façade of the New Cathedral, at your own pace. From this lofty vantage point, soak in the panoramic vistas of Siena and its picturesque countryside, concluding your journey on a truly unforgettable note.

The main attractions, the most important monuments, the curiosities, the legends, the places frequented by the locals, the best restaurants, the typical dishes, and the anecdotes of people who have always lived in the city. These are the elements I would like to find in a tour when I travel and that is exactly what you will find inside this digital tour! What will you need for this tour: - Smartphone - Internet connection - Some energy! You will walk about 4 km but it is feasible regardless of athletic training (so the tour must be done moving through the streets of Siena and not just by phone). You can start the tour at any time: once purchased you will receive link and password to start your experience! Everything is going to be into GetYourGuide Voucher so read all the info!  Once purchased, the tour can be used for the duration of the booked day + 2 extra days so: no rush at all! During the tour, you can freely enter the monuments (entrance fees are not included) and spend as much time as you like on the various visits! Unlike standard tours where you have to run after a guide, the beauty of this experience is that you can decide whether to relax, read historical insights, or spend more time on food or views! The experience is totally in your hands!

On this afternoon and evening tour, you will depart Florence in the early afternoon for the 1-hour drive to Siena. Enjoy the scenic Chianti countryside of delightful hills and vineyards en route. You will have free time in Siena to take in the medieval atmosphere as you wander through its narrow streets. Admire the artistic heritage of this city, exemplified by the Gothic cathedral and the impressive Torre del Mangia in the stunning, world-famous Piazza del Campo. Before leaving Siena, you will have a chance to experience the sunset from a panoramic viewpoint. Then you will continue on to a typical wine estate in the heart of the Chianti region. Nestled between the Tuscan hills and amid vineyards you will be served a delicious dinner that includes typical Tuscan products such as salami, bruschetta, and other unique delicacies. Dinner is accompanied by top-quality local wines personally selected by the owners of the winery. Enjoy this perfect way to end your afternoon in Chianti!

Picture this day unfolding: You kick off in Pisa, immersing yourself in the Pisan Republic's history at the Square of Miracles. The medieval wonders – the Duomo, Baptistery, and the legendary Leaning Tower – offer a glimpse into the past. Next stop: San Gimignano, famed for Vernaccia wines and medieval towers. Stroll narrow streets, soaking in the charm of Middle Aged Tuscany. Then, it's off to Monteriggioni, a 13th-century walled settlement overlooking the Roman Via Cassia. Siena awaits with its romantic center, where the annual Palio horse race graces the Piazza del Campo. The Gothic cathedral and the Torre del Mangia dominate the skyline, along with the impressive Palazzo Pubblico. As you journey back to Florence, the scenic Chianti area unfolds – rolling hills, vineyards, cypress trees, and olive groves creating a postcard-perfect view. It's a detailed exploration of Tuscany's rich history, captivating landscapes, and delightful flavors. Enjoy every chapter of this fascinating tale!

Uncover the hidden gems and fascinating secrets of Siena on a tour that blends delightful bites with the exploration of lesser-known spots. From renowned local patisseries to historic shops, from hidden piazzas and palaces to the legends lying behind them. Immerse yourself in the city in a unique way, discovering places only the locals are familiar with. This tour is crafted and guided by Sienese locals, ensuring an authentic and unforgettable experience. Not only will you visit exceptional places to sample local delicacies, but you'll also be led to secret corners of Siena known only to its residents. Savor the flavors of Siena with a sweet tasting of Ricciarelli, Gelato Il Bacio, and a selection of local wines, experiencing the city in the most delightful way possible.

Crossing over the beautiful Chianti hills, you will first arrive at the medieval, hilltop gem of Monteriggioni, with its ancient walls still perfectly intact. As you stroll through the rustic streets, you will feel as though you are traveling through time into the Renaissance era. Enjoy a more modern espresso or cappuccino before heading to your next destination! Your tour will continue to the symbolic town of Siena, famous for its splendid examples of Gothic architecture and its Palio horse race, an annual tradition. Follow your local guide to the intriguing Piazza del Campo, where the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia stand. Next, head to Piazza del Duomo and admire the imposing Cathedral, one of the finest achievements of Italian Gothic architecture. Before leaving Siena, enjoy some free time to explore its historic centre at your leisure. Next, you will head to San Gimignano, famous for its white wine - the world renowned Vernaccia, and its skyscrapers, declared a World heritage Site by UNESCO! Enjoy some free time for independent sightseeing, strolling around the narrow streets, and admiring the beautiful, panoramic landscapes from the hilltop viewpoints. Finally, you will spend some time in the heart of Chianti, with its picture-perfect landscapes. After learning the secrets of the Chianti wine production process from the expert owner of the wine estate, indulge in a tasting of the high quality wines, local snacks, and fresh olive oils. Salute! We will return to Florence filled with memories of a marvelous day in the history and beauty of Tuscany.

Stories tell that it was erected by the sons of Remus, Seno and Aschio, to whom we owe the symbol of the Capitoline wolf on the streets throughout the city. The main foundation of Siena's history, customs and popular traditions is the Palio, a horse race that takes place in the city twice a year, an event of great importance to the Sienese, who divide their supporters into contrade (districts) rich in legends, fervour and ancient symbols rooted in popular tradition. The main attractions of the historical centre that our guide will show you during the tour will start from the splendid Piazza del Campo, with its characteristic shell shape, surrounded by monuments such as the majestic Palazzo Pubblico, the Torre del Mangia and the Fonte Gaia, a model of Renaissance sculpture. No less important, strolling through the alleyways of the centre, you will reach one of the most beautiful cathedrals in Italy, the Duomo di Siena, Gothic in style, for which white marble, green serpentine marble from Prato and red Sienese marble were used. There are also alleys, narrow streets, ancient palaces, artisan shops, wineries and the many shops of the typical sweets of Siena: panforte, ricciarelli, cavallucci.

Prefer to visit Tuscany under the golden glow of the evening sun? Well, this half day tour is perfect for you! Leave Florence in the early afternoon, and arrive in SIENA after just 1 hour driving through the Chianti scenery, famous for its delightful hills and vineyards. Enjoy independently exploring Siena and admiring the Medieval atmosphere all around you! Wander through the narrow streets, with their magnificent artistic heritage, exemplified by the Gothic Cathedral and impressive Torre del Mangia standing in the stunning, world-famous Piazza del Campo. The historic center of Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and you will undoubtedly fall in love with the character and quaintness of this incredible city. The tour continues with a visit to a rustic WINE ESTATE in the heart of the Chianti area. Between the famous Tuscan hills and vineyards, you will be seated to enjoy an unforgettable dinner under the bright colors of the Tusan sunset. You will be served a delicious dinner of seasonal and fresh Tuscan products like salami, bruschetta and a traditional pasta dish. The dinner is enriched by precious wines personally selected by the expert owners of the winery. Can you imagine a more perfect way to end a perfect afternoon in the heart of the Chianti wine region? Join us for a scenic experience of Tuscan culture and food!

Start your tour early in the morning from Rome, where we'll head to our first destination, the iconic San Gimignano. There you will have the opportunity to discover its medieval architecture and its walled streets. In addition, you can walk through its iconic Piazza della Cisterna and visit its representative Torre Grossa. The next stop will be a wine cellar, a great symbol of Tuscany culture. Along with a guided tour, you will learn how this precious delicatessen is made and you will have the opportunity to taste it. You can delight yourself with the aroma of the prestigious Chianti. You will be lucky to taste 15 varieties of wine and oil from the region, besides appetizers like Tuscany cheeses, salami, and the famous bruschetta! After this gastronomic visit, we will head to Siena, known for its traditions, and cultural heritage. There you can enter its historic center and stroll through Piazza il Campo. With its peculiar shell shape, it is considered one of the best medieval squares in Europe. Nor can you miss its characteristic Duomo di Siena and its ancient Tower of Mangia. Finally, with a full stomach and a backpack loaded with beautiful landscapes and picturesque cities, we will return to Rome through the serene Val d'Orcia.

The guided tour of Siena will immerse you in the typical medieval town built by the Medici family. One of the best known buildings is the historic Palazzo Salimbeni which houses the headquarters of the Banca dei Paschi di Siena, one of the oldest in Europe. Walking through the characteristic alleys that have made the historic center a World Heritage Site, you can see spectacular views of the Piazza del Campo square. Unique of its kind for its original 9-segment shell shape, it is considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe and every two times a year the famous Palio challenge is held, the ancient competition between the Contrade (districts of the town). ). The whole square is surrounded by restaurants, cafes and souvenir shops but also important buildings including the Palazzo Comunale with the Torre del Mangia tower that rises over the whole square offering a unique panorama, the Palazzo Chigi-Condari, the Loggia della Mercanzia and in the highest part of the square the Fonte Gaia, the most beautiful of the Sienese water sources. The tour continues up the alleys where it is easy to see food and wine shops selling local delicacies such as wild boar salami, pecorino cheese, honey and wines such as Chianti, Montalcino and Montepulciano. The guided walking tour continues with a visit to the Baptistery, an imposing structure adjacent to the Cathedral that is a real jewel and ends with a visit to the Cathedral, whose majesty of black and white marble on the facade introduces us to the most important religious building in Siena.