Florence: Day Trip With Free Time in San Gimignano and Siena

Discover the charming towns of San Gimignano and Siena on this captivating day trip from the Renaissance city of Florence. Embark on an adventure through Tuscany’s rolling hills, dotted with medieval towers and historic piazzas. Lose yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, where time seems to stand still. Explore the quaint cobbled streets, admire the stunning architecture, and indulge in the local flavors that make this region so beloved. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, uncover the fascinating stories that bring these timeless destinations to life. What secrets and surprises await as you venture beyond the walls of Florence?

Good To Know

• A day trip from Florence that includes transportation, a knowledgeable tour guide, and free time to explore the medieval towns of San Gimignano and Siena.
• Opportunity to visit the UNESCO World Heritage sites of San Gimignano and Piazza del Campo in Siena, showcasing the remarkable Gothic architecture and cultural heritage of these Tuscan destinations.
• Scenic journey through the picturesque Chianti countryside, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves.
• Flexibility to visit local artisanal shops, sample Vernaccia wine, and take in the distinct character and traditions of each historic town.
• Centralized meeting point at the Piazzale Montelungo Bus Terminal near Santa Maria Novella Train Station in Florence for convenient transportation.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Pricing and Inclusions

The day trip to San Gimignano and Siena offers an attractive price point, starting from $55.60 per person. For a full day of exploration, this deal can’t be beaten.

What’s included? Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi, a knowledgeable tour leader, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Though attraction tickets and food aren’t covered, travelers have the freedom to discover these UNESCO-listed gems at their own pace.

With a duration of 9 hours, this flexible tour allows ample time to wander the medieval streets, admire the Gothic architecture, and soak in the Chianti countryside views.

It’s no wonder this experience is likely to sell out – book now before availability runs out.

Exploring San Gimignano

Nestled within the rolling Tuscan hills, San Gimignano’s skyline of medieval towers beckons visitors to explore its captivating past.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, known as the "Manhattan of the Middle Ages," offers a step back in time with its remarkably well-preserved architecture.

Wander through the charming streets, marveling at the 14 towers that remain from the city’s prosperous days.

Visit the historic Piazza della Cisterna, where life once centered around the town’s communal well.

Climb to the top of the iconic Torre Grossa for panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops and the verdant countryside beyond.

Discover the city’s artisanal shops, savor the local Vernaccia wine, and learn about the timeless allure of this Tuscan gem.

Discovering Siena

Journeying onward from the timeless allure of San Gimignano, the historic city of Siena beckons travelers with its captivating Gothic architecture and rich cultural heritage.

Wandering through Siena’s winding streets, one is struck by the striking Duomo, its façade adorned with intricate marble carvings. The iconic Piazza del Campo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enchants with its crescent-shaped design and the towering Palazzo Pubblico, home to the Civic Museum.

Visitors can stroll along the Contrada, the city’s historic districts, each with its own distinct character and traditions.

Whether marveling at the artwork in the Pinacoteca Nazionale or sipping local wines, Siena offers a captivating blend of medieval splendor and modern vibrancy.

Piazza Del Campo and Palio

At the heart of Siena’s captivating splendor lies the iconic Piazza del Campo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that captivates visitors with its crescent-shaped grandeur.

Twice a year, the piazza transforms into a dazzling spectacle as the famous Palio di Siena, a bareback horse race, unfolds. Onlookers eagerly await the procession of flag-bearing contrade (city districts) and the electrifying race itself, a centuries-old tradition that showcases the city’s fierce civic pride.

Beyond the Palio, the piazza beckons with its distinctive sloped design and impressive Palazzo Pubblico, a stunning Gothic palace that serves as the backdrop for endless exploration and discovery in this enchanting Tuscan gem.

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Chianti Countryside Vistas

As the tour departs Siena’s captivating Piazza del Campo, the landscape transforms, unfolding the breathtaking Chianti countryside.

Undulating hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves stretch out as far as the eye can see. The winding roads that lead through this bucolic region offer glimpses of medieval villages perched atop hilltops, their iconic towers and spires piercing the azure sky.

The tour bus winds its way past rows of gnarled grapevines, allowing passengers to inhale the earthy, fragrant scents of the Tuscan terroir.

This scenic journey through the heart of the Chianti wine country is a highlight, providing a tranquil respite from the lively city streets and a chance to savor the serene beauty of the Italian countryside.

Multilingual Tour Guide

The tour’s multilingual guide leads the way, sharing captivating insights into the history and culture of San Gimignano and Siena.

Fluent in Italian, English, French, and German, the guide effortlessly navigates the group through the medieval streets, pointing out architectural marvels and regaling travelers with tales of the cities’ storied pasts.

Whether describing the awe-inspiring towers of San Gimignano or the Gothic splendor of Siena’s Duomo, the guide’s passion and expertise bring these destinations to life.

With a keen eye for detail and a talent for storytelling, the multilingual guide ensures an enriching and unforgettable experience for all participants, fostering a deeper appreciation for the Tuscan region’s remarkable heritage.

Meeting Point and Logistics

Where does the tour begin? The day trip starts at the Piazzale Montelungo Bus Terminal, a quick 5-10 minute walk from the Santa Maria Novella Train Station in Florence. This centralized location makes it easy for travelers to meet up and begin their adventure to the medieval towns of San Gimignano and Siena.

To ensure a smooth journey, here are a few important things to note:

1. Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and water to stay hydrated during the day.

2. Large bags, food, and drinks aren’t permitted on the air-conditioned transportation.

3. In the rare event of site closures or ticket unavailability, the tour operator isn’t responsible for the bus fare.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have given overwhelmingly positive feedback on this day trip, with an impressive overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 167 reviews.

The transportation rating is an exceptional 4.6, and the value for money is praised at 4.4. Participants highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, Giovanni and Letizia, who enhance the experience with their expertise.

Travelers appreciate the freedom to explore the historic cities and the comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle with free Wi-Fi.

This immersive tour through the Chianti countryside offers an unbeatable combination of convenience, cultural enrichment, and stunning scenery, making it a must for any visitor to Florence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can book a private tour instead of a group tour. Many tour providers offer customized private tours to give you a more personalized experience and flexibility in your sightseeing itinerary.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Though no specific discounts for seniors or students are mentioned, travelers can take advantage of the flexible reservation and cancellation policy to find the best value for their budget. The tour provides an affordable way to explore the historic Tuscan towns.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add More Stops?

The tour operator offers flexible options to extend the duration or add more stops on this immersive day trip. Travelers can inquire about customizing their experience to explore deeper into the enchanting medieval towns of San Gimignano and Siena.

Can I Request a Specific Tour Guide or Language Preference?

Travelers can request a specific tour guide or language preference when booking the day trip. This allows them to customize their experience and connect with a guide who best fits their needs and interests.

Is It Possible to Stop for Lunch or a Wine Tasting Along the Way?

The tour doesn’t include a formal lunch stop, but travelers are free to explore the towns and enjoy local eateries and wineries at their leisure during the free time. This allows for a more immersive cultural experience.

The Sum Up

Enjoy the captivating charm of Tuscany’s medieval gems. Wander the quaint streets of San Gimignano, gaze upon the stunning Piazza del Campo in Siena, and lose yourself in the breathtaking Chianti countryside vistas. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you’ll unlock the rich history and architecture of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites, creating unforgettable memories on this enchanting day trip from Florence.

You can check if your dates are available here: