Siena and San Gimignano Day Trip from Florence

Visit two highlights of Tuscany, the charming cities of Siena and San Gimignano, on an action-packed day trip from Florence. After traveling through the gorgeous Chianti countryside, visit Siena Duomo to see incredible frescoes inside the Libreria Piccolomini hall. Learn about Siena’s famous 'contrades' neighborhoods on a visit to one of the city's contrada museums, and then head to San Gimignano. Visit San Gimignano 1300 Museum to see miniature models of the ancient city made, and sample local wine and sweets!

Leave Florence by air-conditioned coach and travel south to Siena, passing through the postcard-perfect Tuscan countryside. Travel through the area known as Chianti, admiring the idyllic landscape of verdant green hills punctuated by cypress trees, vineyards and olive groves. After 1.5 hours, stop in the medieval walled city of Siena – Tuscany’s elegantly beautiful second city.

Your first visit is Siena Duomo, a majestic medieval cathedral that dominates the city’s UNESCO-listed Old Town. Head inside the cathedral with your guide and admire highlights like the Libreria Piccolomini – a hall adorned with frescoes depicting the early life of Pope Pius II. After marveling at the artwork, stroll to one of the city's contrada museums.

The museum is dedicated to information about Siena’s famous contrades, and as you browse the exhibits, your guide will talk to you about their origins. Loosely translated as districts, the contrades have individual legacies of traditions and each one boasts their own flag and anthems. Learn of the contrades’ role during Siena’s legendary Palio horse race, and browse the historical documents on display.

After a break in Piazza del Campo for lunch (own expense), board your coach and travel to San Gimignano, roughly an hour away. Head inside San Gimignano 1300 Museum, which showcases life in the city 700 years ago, and watch a crafts demonstration where miniature models of San Gimignano buildings are made. Learn about the different techniques in ceramic production from hand decorating to firing the clay, and then sample a glass of white wine made from the locally renowned vernaccia grape. Try a selection of medieval sweets, too, such as ricciarelli (rich biscuits) and panforte (moist and sumptuous fruit cake).

Enjoy free time to explore the museum and town, and then return to your coach for your journey back to Florence, finishing your tour at the start point.

Please note: Siena Duomo is closed each Sunday and the contrada museums occasionally close with little notice. Should these attractions be closed on the day of your tour, visits will be arranged to the Basilica of San Domenico or the cathedral museum (Opera del Duomo), instead.

Special Offer - Book now to travel in 2014, and save more than 6% on the recommended retail price. - Book Now!

• Transport by air-conditioned coach
• Live commentary on board
• Entrance fees
• Tour escort
• Professional guide in Siena
• Guided visit of the Museum in San Gimignano
• Wine, snacks and sweets tasting in San Gimignano

• Gratuities (optional)
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks, unless specified

Special Offer - Book now to travel in 2014, and save more than 6% on the recommended retail price. - Book Now!