Medieval Siena, San Gimignano & Farmhouse Lunch
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Port
Livorno (Florence/Pisa), Italy
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Activity Level
Strenuous
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$249.95
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 10½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
Siena is a glorious city of winding, narrow streets that cling to steep hillsides. It boasts an unmatched, enchanting medieval atmosphere, and the buildings surrounding the central Piazza del Campo symbolize the golden age of the city. Between 1260 and 1348, wealthy citizens contributed to a major program of civic development, and the stunning results are still here to enjoy today. A nasty bout of Bubonic Plague and an 18-month Florentine siege worked to freeze Siena in time, and now most of its medieval buildings have been carefully renovated and restored.
A guided walking tour includes the Church of San Domenico, which contains the relics of the famous Saint Catherine -- including her preserved head -- and beautiful frescoes by Sodoma in the chapel.
The Piazza del Duomo, with its magnificent cathedral in black and white marble, is built on Siena’s highest hill. Visit its Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption with a beautiful inlaid marble floor and pulpit by Nicola Pisano, and the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo with its original 13th-century palaces (the Palazzo Pubblico has been the seat of Siena government since the 13th century). Nearby is the 300-foot-tall Torre del Mangia bell tower.
Make the most of some free time to shop and browse.
Just out of town, at a local farmhouse, taste estate wine and olive oil with an Italian lunch.
Enjoy free time in the town of San Gimignano -- chosen by Zeffirelli as the setting for his masterpiece Tea with Mussolini. You may choose to explore the interesting churches, palaces, and shops on your own.
Notes:
Tour requires significant walking through Siena. Terrain includes even and uneven surfaces, cobblestones, very steep inclines, and many steps. Please realistically assess your physical fitness and ability prior to booking. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience at the cathedral. Modest attire is required for visiting churches or cathedrals; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered; shorts are not allowed. Corkage policy: Wine purchased on this tour is exempt from the on-board corkage fee (offer limited to one bottle of wine per person).