Siena and San Gimignano: Small-Group Tour With Lunch From Florence

Tuscany’s medieval gems of Siena and San Gimignano beckon visitors to discover their timeless allure. This small-group tour from Florence offers a chance to take in the historic city centers, marveling at well-preserved architecture and cultural heritage. From a guided walking tour of Siena to a delightful lunch at a family-owned winery, the journey promises an enriching exploration of these enchanting destinations. But the true enchantment lies in the opportunity to uncover the picturesque hilltop town of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the surprises that await within its medieval walls.

Just The Basics

• Full-day sightseeing and tasting tour through the Tuscan countryside, including visits to the medieval towns of Siena and San Gimignano.
• Guided walking tour of Siena’s highlights, including the Piazza del Campo, Palazzo Pubblico, and Duomo di Siena.
• Delightful lunch at a family-owned Tuscan winery, with local wines and regional specialties.
• Exploration of the picturesque medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano and its UNESCO-recognized architecture.
• Small group size capped at 25 participants for a personalized sightseeing experience.

Tour Overview

This full-day sightseeing and tasting tour through the Tuscan countryside immerses visitors in the medieval charm of Siena and San Gimignano.

Travelers will explore the historic city centers, marveling at the well-preserved architecture and soaking in the unique atmosphere.

The tour also includes a visit to a family-owned winery, where guests can savor local wines and Tuscan specialties during a delectable lunch.

With a small group size capped at 25 participants, the tour offers a personalized experience and attentive service.

Throughout the day, guests will be transported by a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus equipped with free Wi-Fi, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey through the picturesque Tuscan landscape.

Inclusions

The tour includes roundtrip transportation by air-conditioned minibus or van equipped with free Wi-Fi, allowing travelers to journey comfortably through the picturesque Tuscan countryside.

The experience also features a guided walking tour of Siena’s highlights, giving visitors an insider’s perspective on the historic city.

Plus, the tour includes a delightful lunch at a family-owned Tuscan winery, where guests can savor local wines paired with authentic regional specialties.

The tour provides:

1. Roundtrip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
2. A guided walking tour of Siena’s top sights.
3. A winery lunch with Tuscan wines and local cuisine.

Exclusions

While the tour includes several comprehensive offerings, it also has some exclusions.

Specifically, the entrance fee and tour of the Siena Cathedral aren’t covered in the overall cost, requiring an additional €15 payment.

Plus, the tour doesn’t provide hotel pickup or drop-off services, and gratuities for the guide aren’t included.

These exclusions allow the tour to maintain a competitive price point while still providing an immersive Tuscan experience. Guests should budget for these additional costs if they wish to fully explore the Siena Cathedral or require transportation to and from their hotel.

Logistics

The tour begins at Piazzale Montelungo in Florence, with an 8:00 AM start time. It lasts approximately 6:00 PM, providing a full day of sightseeing and tasting in the Tuscan countryside.

Travelers will be transported by air-conditioned minibus or van, which offers free Wi-Fi to stay connected during the journey.

The logistics of this tour are straightforward:

1. Meeting point is Piazzale Montelungo in Florence.
2. The tour starts at 8:00 AM and returns around 6:00 PM.
3. Transportation is provided by a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus or van with free Wi-Fi.

This allows participants to focus on the enjoyment of exploring Siena and San Gimignano, while also savoring local wine and Tuscan specialties at a family-owned winery.

Winery Lunch

Why, the highlight of this tour is the opportunity to savor local Tuscan specialties alongside expertly paired wines at a family-owned winery along the way.

During the lunch, you’ll get to experience the true flavors of the region. The winery offers a selection of their finest vintages to complement the traditional Tuscan dishes, like hearty pastas, grilled meats, and fresh produce from the estate’s own gardens.

It’s a chance to indulge in the region’s renowned culinary traditions in an authentic setting. The intimate, family-owned atmosphere creates a memorable experience, allowing you to truly appreciate the local culture and cuisine of Tuscany.

Siena Highlights

After indulging in the flavors of Tuscany at the family-owned winery, the tour moves on to explore the historical highlights of the medieval city of Siena.

Visitors will embark on a guided walking tour through the city’s charming streets, marveling at the striking architecture and captivating history that have made Siena a renowned destination in the region.

The tour highlights include:

1. The Piazza del Campo, the famous shell-shaped square and the site of the biannual Palio horse race.
2. The Palazzo Pubblico, a magnificent Gothic palace that serves as the city’s town hall.
3. The Duomo di Siena, a stunning cathedral known for its intricate marble facade and stunning interior.

With the guidance of a local expert, travelers will gain a deeper appreciation for Siena’s rich cultural heritage and unique identity.

San Gimignano Exploration

Following the visit to Siena, the tour ventures forth into the picturesque countryside towards the medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano.

Known as the ‘Town of Fine Towers,’ San Gimignano’s skyline is dominated by the striking silhouettes of its well-preserved Gothic towers, which once served as symbols of power and wealth for the town’s noble families.

Travelers will have the opportunity to stroll through the charming, winding streets, admiring the town’s remarkably intact medieval architecture and soaking in the unique atmosphere that has earned San Gimignano recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

During the free time allotted, visitors can explore the town’s artisanal shops, sample its renowned gelato, and take in the stunning panoramic views from the town’s historic center.

Additional Information

This tour typically provides confirmation upon booking. Plus, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible.

Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available for the included lunch at the Tuscan winery. Visitors should note that the Siena Cathedral may be closed on Sundays and during special celebrations. The group size is limited to a maximum of 25 travelers.

The key highlights of this tour include:

1. Exploring the medieval cities of Siena and San Gimignano.
2. Savoring local wines and Tuscan specialties during a winery lunch.
3. Enjoying personalized service in a small group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets aren’t allowed on this tour. The tour operator has a strict no-pet policy to ensure the comfort and safety of all participants.

The tour involves visiting historic sites, wine tastings, and a meal at a winery, none of which are suitable environments for bringing pets.

Travelers are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets while they enjoy the sightseeing and culinary experiences of this Tuscan tour.

Is There a Discount for Senior Citizens?

The tour operator doesn’t seem to offer any specific discounts for senior citizens.

However, some tour providers may provide reduced rates for seniors or those over a certain age.

It’s best to check with the tour company directly to inquire about any available discounts. They can provide information on the eligibility requirements and the amount of the potential savings for senior travelers.

Can I Take Photos During the Winery Visit?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos during the winery visit on the tour. Most wineries welcome the opportunity for guests to capture images of the vineyards, wine production facilities, and tasting experience.

However, it’s always a good idea to be respectful and check with the winery staff before extensively photographing the premises or other guests. Following any rules or requests from the winery staff will ensure an enjoyable, comfortable experience for all.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated in San Gimignano?

The tour allocates free time in San Gimignano, allowing guests to explore the medieval city at their own pace.

Visitors can wander the picturesque streets, admire the iconic towers, and discover charming shops and cafes during this independent exploration.

The duration of the free time isn’t specified, but it provides an opportunity for travelers to enjoy the unique atmosphere of San Gimignano before rejoining the group.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in Multiple Languages?

The tour guide is likely fluent in multiple languages, as is common for guided tours catering to international visitors.

The guide is trained to provide comprehensive commentary and information to participants throughout the tour, regardless of their native language. This ensures that all travelers can fully engage with and understand the sights, experiences, and local culture during the excursion.

The multilingual capability of the guide enhances the overall quality and accessibility of the tour for a diverse group of guests.

Sum Up

This captivating small-group tour offers a delightful exploration of Tuscany’s medieval gems.

Visitors will enjoy the historic city centers of Siena and San Gimignano, marveling at well-preserved architecture and cultural heritage.

The tour includes a guided walking tour of Siena, a delightful winery lunch, and the opportunity to discover the picturesque UNESCO-listed town of San Gimignano, all with the convenience of comfortable transportation and a personalized experience.