Small-Group San Gimignano and Volterra Day Trip from Siena

Siena , Italy

Small-Group San Gimignano and Volterra Day Trip from Siena

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About this experience

Embrace the medieval charms of Tuscany's towns on a full-day trip to San Gimignano and Volterra from Siena. With an attentive local guide, walk round the Fortress of Monteriggioni, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of San Gimignano, and visit an alabaster workshop in Volterra. Enjoy a delicious lunch on a small Tuscan farm and spend time at your leisure exploring these rustic hill towns that are steeped in rich Italian history.

Numbers are limited to eight people on this small-group tour, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention from your guide.

Available options

Small-Group San Gimignano and Volterra Day Trip from Siena

What's included

Lunch

Driver/guide

Transport by air-conditioned minivan

Visit to alabaster workshop

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Meet your guide in front of the church of San Domenico in Siena at 9:30am, easy to find even if you are arriving from out of town with your own car, as there is parking in the vicinity.

Travel north into the first Chianti hills and take a walk around Monteriggioni, a medieval and perfectly preserved fortress with a complete ring of city walls and turrets built in the 13th century and mentioned by Dante in his Divine Comedy: this was once Siena’s main bastion of defense against the armies of Florence. Enjoy its quiet and charming atmosphere browsing the alleys and shops of local crafts and products, or lighting a candle in the local church as the pilgrim's once did.

Continue to the fascinating town of San Gimignano, one of the most characteristic hilltop towns of Tuscany, with its many austere medieval towers that defiantly survived the centuries and are still proudly standing today. Recognized as a UNESCO site of world heritage, this city is a great testimony of medieval architecture. Walk along the ancient route of the Via Francigena, the main route that took all travelers and pilgrims of Europe to Rome and the Holy See. The bustling San Gimignano flourishes with artisanal boutiques of the local trades and stores, selling the towns famous ‘red gold’ or saffron spice as well as the Vernaccia white wine, so traditional and old that Dante mentions it in the 13th century.

Brief visit to the minature museum and marvel at what San Gimignano looked like during the Middle Ages

After working up an appetite browsing squares, streets, churches and stores of San Gimignano, visit a small family-run farm and enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch prepared using the farm's own seasonal products. During lunch you will taste dishes prepared with saffron accompanied by the refreshing Vernaccia white wine.
After lunch, continue on the panoramic roads towards Volterra, the ancient Velathri, a city that harmoniously combines Etruscan and Roman ruins with medieval and Renaissance architecture, with the unavoidable modern buildings and furnishings. Visit a small, artisanal workshop and meet the craftsmen that have been working the local alabaster for decades. Witness this ancient art of sculpting this stone into precious masterpieces.

Enjoy leisure time walking along the streets of the historical centre of Volterra, visiting the town’s famous Etruscan museum or simply marveling at the millennia old Etruscan arch, the Roman theatre or the more modern monuments and shops in town.

On some occasions the itinerary might vary a little. In this case, the tour could be slightly modified but will maintain a similar general imprint, of the same duration and with all the same inclusions.

What's not included

Gratuities

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

108 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

71 reviews

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Meet under the large tree next to the red brick church

About Siena

Siena is a medieval city in Tuscany, Italy, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and the famous Palio horse race. The city's well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into Italy's medieval past with its cobblestone streets, towering churches, and grand piazzas.

Top Attractions

Piazza del Campo

Piazza del Campo is the heart of Siena and the site of the famous Palio horse race. This stunning, shell-shaped square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a must-visit for its architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena)

The Siena Cathedral is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, featuring stunning marble facades, intricate mosaics, and beautiful frescoes. The cathedral's interior is equally impressive, with a richly decorated nave and a magnificent marble floor.

Religious 1-2 hours €8-12

Basilica of San Domenico

The Basilica of San Domenico is one of the largest churches in Siena and houses the relics of St. Catherine of Siena. The church's interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, sculptures, and a magnificent choir.

Religious 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Palazzo Pubblico

The Palazzo Pubblico is a historic palace that houses the Museo Civico, which showcases a collection of medieval and Renaissance art. The palace's courtyard and tower offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Historical 1-2 hours €9-12

Santa Maria della Scala

Santa Maria della Scala is a historic hospital and museum complex that showcases the city's rich history and art. The complex features beautiful frescoes, sculptures, and a labyrinthine network of underground passages.

Historical 1-2 hours €7-10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pici all'Aglione

A traditional Tuscan pasta dish made with hand-rolled pici pasta and a garlic and tomato sauce.

Main course Vegetarian

Ribollita

A hearty bread and vegetable soup, often made with cannellini beans, kale, and carrots.

Soup Vegetarian

Panforte

A traditional Siena dessert made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, often enjoyed during the Christmas season.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains nuts

Peposo

A traditional Tuscan beef stew, slow-cooked with wine, garlic, and spices.

Main course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tuscan countryside Cycling tours Wine tasting tours Visiting hot springs Enjoying local cuisine Exploring historic sites Visiting museums Attending the Palio horse race

Best Time to Visit

June to August, July 2 (Palio di Provenzano), August 16 (Palio di Assunta)

The peak season in Siena is during the summer months, especially around the Palio horse races. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

22°C to 34°C 72°F to 93°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Siena is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so it's important to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Florence Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Pisa International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)

By train

Siena Station

By bus

Siena Piazza Gramsci, Siena Piazza del Duomo

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Siena is efficient and covers most parts of the city and nearby towns. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for those staying outside the city center.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

San Martino San Domenico Santa Maria della Scala

Day trips

Chianti Wine Region

20-40 km (12-25 miles) • Half day to full day

The Chianti region is famous for its vineyards, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. It's a perfect day trip for wine enthusiasts and those looking to explore the Tuscan countryside.

San Gimignano

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

San Gimignano is a medieval hilltop town known for its towering houses and stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for history buffs.

Val d'Orcia

60-80 km (37-50 miles) • Full day

Val d'Orcia is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes, hot springs, and picturesque villages. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers and those looking to relax in a beautiful setting.

Festivals

Palio di Siena • July 2 and August 16 Siena Jazz Master Classes • July Siena International Film Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the historic sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Try local specialties like pici pasta, ribollita, and panforte
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as underground passages and historic streets
Attend the Palio horse race for a unique cultural experience
Take a day trip to the Chianti wine region for wine tasting and scenic landscapes