Tuscany’s captivating charm comes to life on the "Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti Small Group Tour." This nine-hour excursion whisks travelers away from Piazzale Montelungo, immersing them in the historic wonders of Siena through a guided walking tour. From the iconic Piazza del Campo to the majestic Siena Cathedral, the journey promises a deep dive into the region’s rich cultural heritage. But the true allure lies in the delightful lunch and wine tasting at a family-owned estate, where the flavors of Chianti elevate the senses. As the tour continues to the enchanting town of San Gimignano, one can only imagine the enchanting vistas and timeless charm that await.
Key Points
- This small group tour from Florence explores the historic cities of Siena and San Gimignano, including guided visits and a wine tasting experience.
- The tour duration is 9 hours, with a departure time of 7:45 AM from Stazione Montelungo in Florence.
- The tour includes a guided walking tour of Siena, a light lunch and wine tasting at a family-owned Tuscan estate, and free time in San Gimignano.
- The tour is suitable for up to 25 participants and is conducted in English, with an experienced driver and guide.
- Participants should note the tour’s accessibility limitations and bring required items such as a passport or ID and appropriate clothing.
Tour Overview
The "Florence: Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti Small Group Tour" takes travelers on a nine-hour excursion to some of Tuscany’s most picturesque destinations.
Priced from €149 per person, the small group tour departs from Florence’s Piazzale Montelungo and includes guided visits to Siena and San Gimignano, as well as a wine tasting and light lunch at a family-owned wine estate.
With transportation provided and free Wi-Fi on board, the tour accommodates up to 25 people and is conducted in English. Guests can enjoy free time for shopping and sightseeing, and have the option to add on an entry ticket to Siena Cathedral.
The tour operates rain or shine and has received excellent customer reviews, particularly for the knowledgeable guide and seamless organization.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Siena.
Itinerary Highlights
Departing at 7:45 AM from Stazione Montelungo, the tour first travels to Siena, a captivating medieval city, for a 75-minute guided walking tour. After the tour, guests have an hour of free time to explore Siena’s charming streets and shops.
| Next | The group then travels to the heart of Tuscany, where they’ll experience a 1.5-hour lunch and wine tasting at a family-owned wine estate. |
|---|---|
| Then | They continue on to the historic town of San Gimignano, with 1.5 hours of free time to wander its well-preserved medieval towers and squares. |
| Finally | The tour returns to Florence, completing the 9-hour journey filled with the best of Tuscany’s art, architecture, and flavors. |
Inclusions
Included in the tour price is an experienced driver and guide who’ll accompany the group throughout the day.
Transportation is provided with free Wi-Fi on board the bus. A guided walking tour of Siena is included, as well as a light lunch and wine tasting at a family-owned wine estate in the Tuscan countryside.
The Siena Cathedral entry ticket is also provided, unless the optional add-on is selected. Tips aren’t included. Hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t provided.
The tour operates rain or shine, though the Siena Cathedral may be closed on Sundays or during religious celebrations.
Important Information
This tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Participants should bring their passport or ID, as well as weather-appropriate clothing.
Vegetarian options are available upon request. The sample menu includes assorted cold cuts, cheeses, pasta or soup, dessert, and wines.
This tour operates rain or shine, and the Siena Cathedral is closed on Sundays or during religious celebrations.
The key things to remember are:
- Not suitable for those with mobility issues
- Bring ID and weather-appropriate attire
- Vegetarian menu available
- Tour operates regardless of weather; Siena Cathedral has limited access
Customer Reviews
The tour has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from past participants. With an outstanding overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 306 reviews, the tour has consistently impressed travelers. The guide and transportation aspects have both been rated 4.9/5, showcasing the excellence of the tour’s execution. Participants have particularly praised the organization, with a perfect 5/5 score, and the quality of the service provided. The highlights of the tour, such as the wine tasting and lunch experience, have also been singled out for their exceptional quality. This level of positive feedback underscores the tour’s ability to deliver an unforgettable Tuscan adventure.
| Metric | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall | 4.9/5 |
| Guide | 4.9/5 |
| Transportation | 4.9/5 |
| Service | 4.7/5 |
| Organization | 5/5 |
Departure and Transportation
At 7:45 AM, the tour departs from Stazione Montelungo in Florence, transporting participants by comfortable bus to their first destination, the historic city of Siena.
The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, allowing travelers to sit back and enjoy the scenic Tuscan countryside.
The transportation provided includes:
- Free WiFi on board, enabling passengers to stay connected during the trip.
- Air conditioning, ensuring a comfortable ride regardless of the weather.
- Ample legroom and spacious seating for a relaxed experience.
- A professional driver, ensuring a safe and smooth journey to each destination.
After the drive, the group will embark on a guided walking tour of Siena, exploring the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.
Guided Tour of Siena
Upon arrival in Siena, the group embarks on a guided walking tour, led by a knowledgeable local guide, to explore the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.
The tour takes them through the heart of the medieval city, including the Piazza del Campo, a stunning shell-shaped square famous for hosting the Palio horse race. They admire the impressive Siena Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece adorned with intricate marble facades.
The guide provides fascinating insights into the city’s past, from its rivalry with Florence to the traditions and customs that have endured for centuries.
The tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Siena’s captivating blend of history, culture, and beauty.
Wine Tasting and Lunch
Following the tour of Siena, the group embarks on a delightful interlude at a family-owned Tuscan wine estate. The 35-minute drive through the picturesque countryside sets the stage for a memorable experience.
At the estate, the travelers enjoy:
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A light, yet satisfying lunch featuring local specialties such as assorted cold cuts, cheeses, pasta or soup, and dessert.
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A guided wine tasting, where they sample the estate’s finest vintages and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.
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The opportunity to purchase their favorite wines, should they wish to take a taste of Tuscany home.
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The chance to soak in the serene ambiance and stunning vistas of the rolling hills and vineyards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
The tour allows participants to bring their own food and drinks, but it’s recommended to enjoy the included light lunch and wine tasting at the family-owned estate, as the tour is designed to provide a comprehensive culinary experience.
Is There Any Free Time for Individual Exploration?
The tour includes free time for individual exploration in Siena and San Gimignano. Travelers have 1 hour in Siena and 1.5 hours in San Gimignano to sightsee, shop, and discover these historic Tuscan towns at their own pace.
Can I Take Photos During the Wine Tasting?
Yes, you can take photos during the wine tasting portion of the tour. The tour provides ample time for guests to explore the family-owned wine estate and capture photos of the scenic Tuscan landscape and wine-making process.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour does not offer an option to extend the duration. The 9-hour tour is fixed and does not provide a way for customers to customize or lengthen the experience. Extending the tour time would require booking a separate or private tour.
Do I Need to Know Italian to Participate in the Tour?
The tour is conducted in English, so participants don’t need to know Italian to participate. The guide will provide explanations and information throughout the tour, ensuring a seamless experience for non-Italian speakers.
Recap
The "Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti Small Group Tour" offers a captivating exploration of Tuscany’s charm. Visitors can enjoy the historic wonders of Siena, indulge in a wine tasting and lunch at a family-owned estate, and revel in the enchanting atmosphere of San Gimignano. With a small group size, this tour promises an intimate and memorable journey through the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
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