Private tour in San Gimignano Martina M

Discovering Volterra and its treasures - half day tour

5.0

(7) reviews

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Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
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-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Martina M.

5.0

Guide rating

240

Reviews

Tours delivered

3 hrs

Avg. response time

Hi everyone! My name is Martina and I am an enthusiastic art historian, with an M. A. degree from the University of Pisa. Thanks to my passion for art, architecture and local history, since 2007 I have been working as a Licensed Tour Guide and Tour Director in Tuscany and Cinque Terre. I love creating unique cultural itineraries and culinary tours for single travellers, family and small groups who wish to experience a warm, authentic, human connection! My goal is to make the most of your time in Italy, so I tailor the tours to your needs and interest in order to give you an unforgettable time and 'new eyes'! I design: -Art, architecture and history tours -Ancient arts and crafts tours -City walks with visits to off-the-beaten path attractions -Day tour of Tuscan hilltowns (Volterra and San Gimignano) -Culinary Tours and cooking class in Tuscany coutryside -Truffle Hunting and Truffle tasting in San Miniato -Extra virgin olive oil tasting (+ visit of olive grove and olive mill) -Cheese tasting in an organic farm located in an amazing scenery -Wine tours in the countryside around Pisa, Lucca, Volterra, San Gimignano and on the Etruscan coast (Bolgheri) -Boat tour of Cinque Terre (end of April- mid of September) -Cinque Terre hiking & walking tours Note: some of the tours can be combined! If you are looking for a half/full day Guided Tours and you wish to travel at your rithm, discovering off-the-beaten path attractions, not to mention local food and wines, just book a tour with me! In the years I have gained expertise and experience in tourism practices that enable me to create very specific itineraries, according to the style, interests and time available to travellers. There is certainly to learn, but not at the expense of fun! The discovery of the sites also includes the most interesting areas of city life, like cafes, shops and nice meeting places. For further information, do not hesitate to contact me! I will get back tp you within 24h. -Licensed Tour Guide since 2007 to date; -Licensed Tour Director in Tuscany and Italian Riviera di Levante (Cinque Terre, Portovenere, Lerici, Tellaro, Sarzana) from 2005 to date; -Art Historian, with an MA Degree (Medieval, Renaissance and Modern Art) from the University of Pisa; -Author of articles published on art history magazines (Arte|Documento; Arte Veneta; Burlington Magazine, Print Quarterly); -Indipendent Scholar attending seminars and conferences in different European Countries (Itay, England, France) -Featured in Rick Steves' guide books from 2015 to date (for Pisa and surroundings); -Member of the International Tourism Association of Professionals (ITAP); -Certified Classical Pilates Teacher and forever student at E-motion school in Sarzana (SP - Italy) •I am not a driver. I can accompany you in your vehicle or I can arrange for a separate car and driver.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Martina M.

Overview of your San Gimignano tour

Like a precious gem nestled on a gold ring, the ancient city of Volterra stands out of a steep cliff, surrounded by a sea of rolling green hills, and bears witness to three tousands years of history (Etruscan, Roman and Medieval time). Besides a very well preserved example of military architecture of Etruscan Era, touring Volterra with Martina you will have the opportunity to visit the Roman Theatre, Thermal Bath and Cistern. Of the medieval Era you will not only breath the atmosphere but also enjoy exploring the religious (Cathedral +Baptistery) and political sites (the Priors' Palace/ Square with the 'Tower of the piglet'). Last but not least, Volterra is characterized by exclusive alabaster stone workshops that shine along narrow alleys or embellish small squares of its historic centre. Martina will bring you to her favorite alabaster studio, where two friends of her and master artisans will show you how they transform a raw material into awesome works of art. It will be a truly memorable experience!

Recent Reviews

Robert F.United States
15 hours ago

Martina is knowledgeable, enthusiastic, organized, and tailors her tour to what she learns about her clients during the tour. Her tour included a balance of history, architecture, culture and local craftspeople. She knows Volterra and has connections throughout the town. We recommend Martina to others interested in Volterra, Pisa, Cinque Terra and other proximate parts of Tuscany and the Ligurian coastline.

Julie R.United States
February 2026

Martina was terrific! We had rainy weather and she skillfully moved us from the Roman and Etruscan sites, to the museum Guarnacci, to an alabaster artisan workshop without a drop of water on us! We certainly felt like we knew the city and its long history by the end of the tour. Highly recommend this overlooked town of Volterra and to have Martina be your guide. This tour was awesome!!

Nathaniel M.United States
February 2025

Martina was personable, charming, knowledgeable, and engaging for all ages. It felt like we were hanging out with an old friend! 100% recommended!

Jeff S.United States
October 2023

Martina is amazing! Not only is she extremely prepared, knowledgeable and professional but she's also warm, personable and caring. Our day with Martina is one we'll never forget! She arranged for us to meet two master craftsmen of alabaster (one an extraordinary 93-year-old) that really highlighted our day. Our time in Lucca and Volterra with Martina was remarkable. My wife and I feel that we have made a new friend for life! Thanks, Martina!!!

Rose G.United States
October 2023

We truly enjoyed our tour of beautiful Volterra with Martina! Martina was exceptional in explaining the history, traditions and hidden treasures of Volterra. Her knowledge and expertise exceeded our expectations! Martina was sensitive to our needs and allowed us to explore at our own pace. We have had many tours during our stay in Tuscany and this one was certainly our favorite! Grazie mille Martina! We hope to see you another time!

Katherine J.United States
September 2023

We had an excellent tour with Martina! She met us in Volterra and took us around the town. She has a wealth of information about the Volterra and we got to meet original, local artisans who showed us their crafts and how they do their work. Martina is very knowledgable in the history of Volterra. She brought books and other information to share with us about what we were seeing. We also found her to be very friendly and personable and we enjoyed a lovely lunch with her!

Your San Gimignano tour itinerary

-I will meet you at Piazza Martiri della Libertà. After a brief introduction we will start a delightful walking tour and reach 'Porta all'Arco', rare example of Etruscan military architecture. Walking throughout narrow streets and alleys we will discover its Medieval buildings: - the Cathedral + Batistery + old hospital - the Priors Palace (on request it is possible to climb the bell tower) and the square. We will then walk back in time to Roman Era and will visit: - the remains of Roman theatre + thermal baths -the Roman Cistern located on the highest point of the hill I will introduce you to the world of alabaster stone: -visit of an exclusive alabaster workshop Note 1: Within the end of the tour, I will be happy to recommend you a nice place where to eat well + the best ice-cream shop / pastryshop in town! Note 2: if you wished to visit the Pinacoteca (painting collection) and/or the Guarnacci Museum (Pre Etruscan, Etruscan and Roman remains), I will be happy to extend the tour of two-three hours.

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Transport details
Type: Walking

This is a walking tour

What's included
Other: taxes
Private Guide
Services: -planning service
Classes Workshop: visit of an exclusive alabaster workshop where you will see master artisans at work
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. - Entrance fees to museums
Public Transportation
Food Drinks Snacks
Tastings
Tickets
Private Transportation
Private Transportation With Driver
Accommodation
Equipment: Martina will hire earset and radio system for group of more than 4 people
Meeting location

Volterra, Tuscany, 56048, Italy

Martina will meet you in Volterra, at piazza Martiri della Libertà

Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
Tour reference number
908532
Languages
English
Italian
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Volterra best suited for?

This private tour in Volterra is perfect for travellers who are interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the city, including its Etruscan, Roman, and Medieval heritage. It's also ideal for those who appreciate art, as you'll visit an exclusive alabaster workshop. The tour is kid-friendly and offers a moderate activity level, making it suitable for families and those who enjoy walking tours.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Volterra be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 3 hours
Walking
Private tour for 1-4 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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