Tuscany Day Trip from Florence: Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa and Lunch at a Winery

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Duration:11 hours to 12 hours (approx.)
Location: Florence, Tuscany

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Famous for a wealth of art, history, striking landscapes and outstanding produce, Tuscany really does have the best of all worlds! With only a day to spare, see the best Tuscany has to offer on this full-day guided coach trip from Florence.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

WHAT TO EXPECT

1. Florence
We will meet at the front of Santa Maria Novella train station at 7:45am, ready for an 8.00am start. Your guide will be holding a WALKABOUT TOURS sign, right by the taxi stand at Santa Maria Novella train station across from the outside McDonald's. After meeting your expert guide, an air-conditioned coach will whisk you away to the first stop of the day, Siena. The drive to Siena will take about 1 hours 15 minutes. During the journey, your guide will explain the itinerary for the day and entertain you with interesting facts about Siena and Tuscany!!!
2. Siena
Siena is a real medieval gem and in fact one of Tuscany's most famous and beautiful hill top towns. When you arrive you will join a 1 hour guided walking tour with a local city guide through Siena's most beautiful streets and sites, including the entrance to the Cathedral, a treasure chest of artworks. Afterwards, enjoy Siena at your own pace with free time for shopping or relaxing in an open-air cafe.
3. Piazza Salimbeni
The first stop on the walking tour of Siena is a bank that has its headquarters in this square - the oldest surviving bank in the world. It's called Monte dei Paschi di Siena and it has been running continuously since 1472. Your guide will explain how Siena's wealth through the centuries came from being on the pilgrim route known as the Via Francigena, a route that led pilgrims between Rome and Northern Europe. Siena prospered as a banking town by lending money and exchanging money for the merchants who were using the pilgrim route as a safe travel route. The Sienese are still wealthy from their banking past and are still famous for their banks today!
4. Contrada della Torre
Your local guide will then walk through some of the most picturesque back streets of Siena, while telling about something very unique to Siena are the 17 districts which make up the historical centre.The name for these ancient divisions is 'contrade'. Each contrada has its own symbol, normally that of an animal including a snail, rhino and giraffe amongst others. The sense of identity and belonging to ones 'contrada' is extremely important. They are self-contained little worlds with their own church, where newborns are baptised, and a public fountain where the newborns are baptised a second time! Needless to say there are strong rivalries between these districts, that explodes during the Palio horserace held twice a year in Piazza del Campo.
5. Piazza del Campo
Piazza del Campo is one of the most beautiful squares you will ever see and it is also the city's gathering place, where the locals meet for a coffee and to chat and of course gossip. The unusual square (actually not a square, it's in the shape of a sea-shell, and sloping!) is the site of the famous Palio horse-race. A 600 year old tradition of Siena. The piazza gets transformed into a racing track twice a year and the contrade, or neighbourhoods of the city battle out for the highest honour possible – winning the palio. You'll hear more about this on the tour, your local guide will set the scene so that you can somehow live for a moment the vibrant atmosphere of this incredible race.
6. Duomo di Siena
Our walking tour then ends inside the Duomo of Siena – undoubtedly the jewel of the city. If you've seen the interior of Florence's Duomo, it is nowhere near as spectacular as Siena's. The most unique part of this city's cathedral is its floor. It's an artwork on its own, made out of the world's most precious marbles – in fact, it's a combined masterpiece of over 50 images created over 2 centuries by some of Italy's most important artists. Then, enjoy walking through the city center on your own before meeting your guide again to head to your next stop!
7. Fattoria Poggio Alloro
After the morning exploration of Siena, a 45-minute drive will take you the the next stop: Fattoria Poggio Alloro, an organic family-run wine estate – the highlight of the day! Enjoy an informal wine tasting lesson and a traditional Tuscan lunch with plenty of wine, in the most gorgeous location overlooking stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Take the opportunity to meet fellow travelers while feasting on fresh organic farm food of homemade pasta, cured meats (homemade prosciutto and salami), local cheeses, a real garden salad, and Tuscan biscotti. There is also the opportunity to buy the local products of the winery before heading to San Gimignano.
8. San Gimignano
After lunch, a 15-minute drive will take you to San Gimignano, that is an even smaller, walled Tuscan hill town than Siena - about 6 times smaller - and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. San Gimignano is most famous for its towers of which there were 72 though there are just 14 remaining today. From this the city gets its nickname of the little Manhattan of Tuscany. Your guide will give you a map and point out the best landmarks, so that you can roam independently the picturesque streets and squares of this enchanting hilltop town.
9. Piazza della Cisterna
Your guide will lead you to the entrance city gate and that is where the main boulevard starts from, Via San Giovanni. This street will take you to Piazza della Cisterna, the heart of San Gimignano and also the setting for several films. This was the square where festivals and tournaments took place while the Piazza Duomo was the religious and political centre. This is also where the best gelato in the world is – Gelateria della Piazza 'Dondoli'. It's won many awards as the best gelato, you could try it and see what you'll think!
10. Piazza del Duomo
From Piazza della Cisterna, the next piazza along is Piazza del Duomo – the Duomo, also known as the Collegiata, is small but is well worth visiting! The beautiful interior of the cathedral walls is filled with colorful 14th century frescoes in every space available. You could also climb up one of the medieval towers here in this piazza, next to the Duomo (the Torre Grossa) to appreciate the incredible 'BIRD'S EYE' view over San Gimignano.
11. Rocca of Montestaffoli
Another stunning view over the towers of San Gimignano is from La Rocca. It is easily accessible behind the Duomo and It is a peaceful setting with olive trees and the wall surrounding the garden that formed part of the 14th-century fortress Medici of Florence built to protect this town from Siena. if you walk to the back of the garden and climb the steps to the top, the views over San Gimignano's skyline are absolutely breathtaking.
12. Pisa
After the visit of San Gimignano, a 1 hour and an half scenic drive through iconic Tuscan countryside will take you to your final stop, Pisa.
13. Piazza dei Miracoli
Upon arrival, your guide will lead you straight to the famous Square of Miracles. At first sight, it is truly breathtaking - the white marble buildings glow in contrast to the perfect, green lawns. You will have about an hour to explore the Cathedral, Baptistry, Monumental Cemetery, and of course - The Leaning Tower! Upgrade to include skip-the-line entry, if you wish.
14. Leaning Tower of Pisa
During your time in Pisa, you can climb the Leaning Tower to admire the incredible views of the Square of Miracles from above. The views from the top of the Tower are truly breathtaking - from the monuments below, to the city surrounding the square, the Arno River, and the countryside in the distance... and part of the fun is also climbing the stairs inside the Leaning Tower that we will make you feel a bit dizzy at the end! To avoid disappointment, we suggest to upgrade to include the pre-booked tickets since the entrance to climb the Leaning Tower is according to time slots.
15. Florence
After leaving Pisa, it will take about an hour to return to Florence. You will dropped off at the start point with a camera full of pictures, a stomach full of hearty Tuscan food and a host of new friends.

ADDITIONAL INFO

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Due to uneven surfaces, we cannot accept anyone with walking difficulties or using a wheelchair
• Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
• It is recommended to book any rail travel from Florence after 9pm to allow time for any traffic delays on your return journey
• When the Duomo of Siena is closed for religious services, Santa Maria della Scala museum will be visited instead
• Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
• Please note: For the Leaning Tower of Pisa children under the age of 8 are not admitted. Children between 8 and 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult and held by the hand at all times while you are in the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Teenagers between 13 and 18 years old must be accompanied by an adult while you are in the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Full Tour option includes the visit to Pisa but not the ticket to climb the Leaning Tower
• Full Tour plus Leaning Tower Tickets option also include the tickets to climb on the Leaning Tower in Pisa.

CANCELLATION POLICY

Posted By : carofll2017
This tour was perfect. Our guide Claudia was fantastic!! Our driver Guiseppe was attentive and a wonderful driver. Our teen girls really enjoyed it as well so it was a winner for us. Do it. You will not regret it.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 13:29:35

Posted By : Tarek_E
Very well organized by Walkabout tours. Gabriel was a truly super guide. Very knowledgeable, polite, and smart and above all very helpful. He made all the difference. We highly recommend Walkabout tours for anyone visiting Toscana and the region and if you get to have Gabriel as your guide, you’re in luck!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 12:58:25

Posted By : David_G
Amazing tour! Our guide Gabriel was excellent. Tons of good information and he kept it fun and light at the same time. Would 100% recommend this tour and Gabriel as well. The tour is a full day, unlike it says in the description, you won’t get back until 8 or 9pm. But we still loved it!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 12:53:08

Posted By : Daniel_A
Awesome day trip. Siena is a must when you go to Florence/Tuscany. The day trip with lunch and wine tasting is worth the money. Our tour guide was Alessandro, very fluent in English and has a lot of good tips for tourists.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 10:38:19

Posted By : Erica_J
Anna and Laudi were spectacular!!! Sara was so thoughtful and accommodating for everyone on the tour. She was knowledgeable and funny. She was always willing to offer information or tips even beyond our trip. Laudi was a great driver. Never once did I feel unsafe and he was kind and compassionate and offered bandages and antiseptic wipes to my daughter when she scratched her leg walking in the city. The bus was brand new and the a/c was cold! We would definitely use Walkabout tours again!
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 09:49:37

Posted By : jscarvie
This was a fantastic way to see Tuscany in a day. Giancarlo was our guide and he was AMAZING. Siena was preparing for Il Palio so the town was buzzing. Very exciting. The Tuscany farm lunch was absolutely spectacular and the beauty of their vineyard and olive orchard made me want to move there. San Gimignano had a much different feel. Very medieval but very beautifu. Lastly the trip to Pisa and its leaning tower. Amazing day.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 08:43:44

Posted By : margoj710
Great trip I really enjoyed all of the towns that we visited. I especially enjoyed the winery, the views, food and wine was amazing.
Both of bus driver and tour manager were very good
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 08:31:29

Posted By : V5016XErobertj
Stayed at the Lowry Hotel on a trip to see the eagles live at the Coop live. The hotel is quite hard to find even with a sat nav.
On arrival the concierge helped with the case and parked the car for you. Check in very efficient. Large room on the fourth floor, excellent quality toiletries. Large selection at breakfast.
There is a menu with specialties you are allowed one item from the menu. If you want more than one item there is a charge for the second item. The price of alcohol is what you expect in a five star city centre hotel. I would certainly recommend this hotel. I have booked this hotel twice now and wouldn’t hesitate to stay again.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 06:00:19

Posted By : Marco_T
Amazing experience! It was truly amazing experiencing the beautiful Tuscan towns and their culture. Mirella was an amazing personable guide who elevated our experience especially through reflecting on her Tuscan background! Would absolutely recommend Mirella and this tour for any future visitors.
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 03:23:20

Posted By : manasin2024
The best trip we had so far in Italy.
Very well organized, all day planned and on time. Our guide / host Sara was amazing ! She is friendly, funny, gave great information at the right time and kept the group together.
The bus we traveled in all day was so comfortable and the driver (Labby ) did a great job by driving smoothly and safely.
Would highly recommend to plan full day with a lot of walking and scenic views
Rating : full ratings
Posted On : 2024-07-01 03:18:34