Siena and San Gimignano Port Tour (Driver Only/Self Touring)
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A scenic drive through the enchanting countryside of Tuscany will take you to your destinations: Siena and San Gimignano.
Siena is one of the most popular and visited places in Tuscany, extremely rich in history and art and with strong local traditions tied to its 17 districts (called “contrade”) and to the famous Palio di Siena, the biggest annual event that takes place twice each summer in the city.
San Gimignano is famous for its fascinating medieval architecture and towers that rise above of all the other buildings offering an impressive view of the city from the surrounding valley.
PLEASE NOTE Your driver is NOT a licensed tour guide.
This is as Tour By Car with only an English Speaking Driver (it does NOT include Tour Guides or Walking Tours).
To comply with italian strict laws, drivers are obliged to remain with the vehicle while guests sightsee on their own away from the vehicle.
Available options
7 to 8 passengers
Pickup included
4 to 6 passengers
Pickup included
1 to 3 passengers
Pickup included
What's included
Air-conditioned vehicle
English Speaking Professional Chauffeur
Private Mercedes Benz Vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Surrounded by medieval buildings and palaces, Piazza del Campo is the most popular square in Siena.
Built over an ancient and now gone Roman forum, is Siena’s shell-shaped main square Piazza del Campo that hosts the famous Palio, the biannual horse race.
2
Stop 2
Close to the Piazza del Campo lies the Duomo, a great Gothic building filled with treasures by Pisano, Donatello, and Michelangelo as well as frescoes by Pinturicchio.
The exterior and interiors are decorated in white and greenish-black marble in alternating stripes, black and white being the symbolic colors of Siena.
3
Commissioned by Pope Pius II, who was born and studied in Siena.
The Logge del Papa features a Renaissance style with three wide arches. The arches are supported by slender Corinthian columns that form an elegant colonnade. The design shows the severity quite typical of the region where it is located.
4
Stop 4
Nicknamed “the Town of Fine Towers”, or “Tuscany’s Manhattan”, San Gimignano has one of Italy’s most unforgettable skyline with medieval towers jutting out like skyscrapers above the historic town.
During the medieval times, there were 72 towers up to 230 feet that were built by prominent families flaunting their f political power and economic status.
Unlike other cities like Florence that lost their towers in wars or urban development, San Gimignano has preserved about 14 of its towers that sets it apart from all the other medieval towns and retains its feudal atmosphere.
5
Not to be missed is the town’s lively triangular square, Piazza della Cisterna, named after the cistern, or rather a well, located in the square’s center.
Enjoy the charm and beauty of San Gimignano, visit various local shops that feature handcrafted items and beautiful ceramics, and be sure sample the delicious local products and its fine white wine, the Vernaccia di San Gimignano.
What's not included
Entry Tickets to the Sites
Gratuities
Lunch
Tour Guide / walking Tour
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About San Gimignano
San Gimignano is a stunningly preserved medieval hill town in Tuscany, famous for its towering houses, Vernaccia wine, and saffron. Known as the 'Medieval Manhattan' due to its 14 remaining stone towers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique glimpse into medieval Italian life and architecture.
Top Attractions
Historic Center of San Gimignano
The Historic Center of San Gimignano is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its medieval architecture and towering houses. The town's unique skyline is dominated by 14 remaining towers, a testament to its rich history and cultural significance.
Historical
2-3 hours
Free to explore
Gelato di Piazza
Gelato di Piazza is a famous gelato shop in San Gimignano, known for its artisanal gelato made with fresh, local ingredients. The shop offers a wide variety of flavors, including traditional and seasonal options.
Food
30 minutes
€3-€5 per scoop
Rocca di Montestaffoli
Rocca di Montestaffoli is a medieval fortress located on a hill overlooking San Gimignano. The fortress offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and a glimpse into the town's military history.
Historical
1 hour
€5
Museo d'Arte Sacra
The Museo d'Arte Sacra is a museum dedicated to religious art and artifacts from the Middle Ages. The museum houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and liturgical objects, providing insight into the religious and cultural history of San Gimignano.
Museum
1 hour
€5
Casa Santuccio
Casa Santuccio is a historic house museum that offers a glimpse into the daily life of a medieval merchant family in San Gimignano. The museum features period furnishings, artwork, and artifacts, providing a unique perspective on the town's history.
Historical
1 hour
€5
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pici all'Aglione
A traditional Tuscan pasta dish made with hand-rolled pici pasta, garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil. The dish is hearty and flavorful, showcasing the simple yet delicious flavors of Tuscan cuisine.
Main Dish
Vegetarian, contains gluten
Saffron Risotto
A creamy risotto made with saffron, a prized spice in Tuscany. The dish is rich and aromatic, with a distinctive golden color and delicate flavor.
Main Dish
Vegetarian, contains gluten
Vernaccia Wine
A white wine produced in the San Gimignano region, known for its crisp, fresh flavor and golden color. The wine is made from the Vernaccia grape and pairs well with local dishes.
Drink
Contains sulfites
Popular Activities
Hiking
Biking
Horseback riding
Wine tasting
Spa treatments
Picnicking in the countryside
Visiting museums and art galleries
Attending local festivals and events
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak tourist season in San Gimignano is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the town is bustling with visitors. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Italian
- Widely spoken: English, French, German, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Gimignano is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
Getting there
By air
- Florence Airport • 55 km
- Pisa International Airport • 60 km
By train
Poggibonsi-San Gimignano Station
By bus
Poggibonsi, Colle di Val d'Elsa
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in San Gimignano, connecting the town to nearby cities and villages. The service is reliable but can be infrequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Free Now, It Taxi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Historic Center
Poggibonsi
Colle di Val d'Elsa
Day trips
Siena
35 km • Half day to full day
Siena is a stunning medieval city in Tuscany, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant culture. The city is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Piazza del Campo, the Siena Cathedral, and the Palazzo Pubblico.
Volterra
20 km • Half day to full day
Volterra is a charming medieval town in Tuscany, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and stunning views. The town is home to numerous historic landmarks, including the Volterra Cathedral, the Palazzo dei Priori, and the Roman Theatre.
Monteriggioni
20 km • Half day
Monteriggioni is a picturesque medieval village in Tuscany, known for its well-preserved walls and towers. The village is a great place to explore the region's rich history and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Festivals
Festa di San Giovanni • June 24
Vernaccia Wine Festival • Last weekend of August
San Gimignano Jazz Festival • July to August
Pro tips
- Visit the Torre Grossa for panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside
- Try the saffron gelato at Gelateria Dondoli, a world-famous gelato shop in San Gimignano
- Explore the town's medieval towers and walls for a unique perspective on its history and architecture
- Attend the Vernaccia Wine Festival for a celebration of the town's famous white wine
- Visit the Museo d'Arte Sacra for a glimpse into the town's religious and cultural heritage
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
