Discovery tour of Siena
Duration: 2 hours
On foot
Option to book private transport with a driver or train tickets.
Extra tickets purchased
by us (Note: tickets are NON-refundable)
What's included in the tour:
Priority access to bookable monuments
Customized itinerary
Interactive experience
Photo stops
Guided tour
Discovering Siena with Guided Florence Tours
Siena is a city suspended in time, a place where history, art, and traditions intertwine to create unparalleled beauty. Proud of its treasures, its churches, and its palaces, Siena has preserved the
fierce and independent spirit that has defined it through the centuries. With Guided Florence Tours, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its most iconic landmarks, lose yourself in its medieval streets, uncover its hidden corners, and be captivated by the stories that breathe life into this extraordinary city.
What to Expect from the Tour
Our journey begins at the majestic Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that will leave you speechless with its striking black and white marble, intricately inlaid floors, and the invaluable art treasures it holds.
We will then delve into the historic contrade—the living soul of Siena and the heart of its celebrated Palio di Siena. This ancient horse race is far more than a competition; it is the purest expression of Sienese passion, a collective ritual that blends history, identity, and devotion. As we walk through the vibrant streets, you’ll feel the heartbeat of the Palio, discovering the symbols and stories that make it one of the most unique events in the world.
During the tour, we will also visit:
- The Church of San Domenico, which houses important relics of Saint Catherine of Siena.
- The magnificent Piazza del Campo, renowned for its distinctive shell shape and the imposing Torre del Mangia, the stage for Siena’s public life and the Palio.
- Piazza Tolomei, a corner that tells the tale of Siena’s noble families and their power.
- The Palazzo Chigi Saracini, now home to one of Italy’s most prestigious music academies.
For a deeper exploration, you may choose to focus on one of Siena’s defining landmarks: the
Cathedral, the Palazzo Pubblico, or the historic Santa Maria della Scala Hospital, a place of refuge and care for pilgrims and the needy since the Middle Ages.
The History
Siena, perched upon three hills, boasts ancient origins that trace back to the Etruscan and Roman
eras. In the Middle Ages, it flourished as one of Tuscany’s most powerful cities, fiercely rivaling
Florence. This proud independence shaped Siena’s identity, leaving an indelible mark on its
monuments, traditions, and people.
One of Siena’s most distinctive contributions to history is its role as a banking hub. It is home to
the Monte dei Paschi di Siena, founded in 1472 and recognized as the oldest bank in continuous
operation in the world. Originally created to support the less fortunate, it evolved into a symbol of
the city’s economic stability and influence.
At the heart of Siena lies Piazza del Campo, one of the most iconic public spaces in Italy. This
stunning square, with its harmonious architecture and unique atmosphere, hosts the city’s most
cherished celebration: the Palio, held in July and August. This race, steeped in tradition and
rivalry, embodies the essence of Siena’s vibrant spirit.
With Guided Florence Tours, you’ll immerse yourself in the history and pride of Siena, experiencing the city like a true contradaiolo. Come and savor a day in this remarkable city—an unforgettable journey into the soul of Siena!
Photo testimonials
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