Siena tours

Here is a selection of the best guided tours in Siena: 1) Half Day Siena Private Tour 2) The "little Jerusalem" in Italy: Pitigliano 3) Palio di Siena half day tour 4) Pisa and Lucca in a Day-Tour from Siena 5) San Gimignano and its towers, half day tour

Siena, Italy, is a charming medieval city known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. Here are some must-do things while visiting Siena: Piazza del Campo: This iconic square is the heart of Siena and is famous for its unique shell-shaped design. It's a great place to soak up the atmosphere, people-watch, and admire the beautiful architecture of the surrounding buildings. The Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia are two landmarks not to be missed here. Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena): One of Italy's most magnificent cathedrals, the Duomo di Siena is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Be sure to visit the interior to see its stunning marble floors, intricate mosaics, and breathtaking frescoes, including works by artists such as Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo. Palio di Siena: If you're lucky enough to visit Siena during the Palio, a traditional horse race held twice a year (on July 2nd and August 16th), it's an event not to be missed. The city comes alive with excitement as locals and visitors alike gather to watch the thrilling race around Piazza del Campo, which is steeped in centuries-old tradition and rivalry between the city's contrade (neighborhoods). Museo Civico (Siena Civic Museum): Housed in the Palazzo Pubblico, this museum is home to a remarkable collection of Sienese art and artifacts, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Duccio di Buoninsegna, Simone Martini, and Ambrogio Lorenzetti. Don't miss the famous frescoes in the Sala della Pace (Room of Peace), which depict scenes of good and bad government. Basilica of San Domenico: This historic church is famous for housing the relics of Saint Catherine of Siena, one of Italy's patron saints. The basilica's interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes and artwork, and the chapel containing Saint Catherine's relics is a place of pilgrimage for devout Catholics. Take a Stroll: Siena's medieval streets are a delight to explore on foot. Wander through narrow cobblestone lanes, discover hidden squares, and admire the city's well-preserved medieval architecture. Be sure to climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views of Siena and the surrounding countryside. These are just a few of the many wonderful things to see and do in Siena. Whether you're interested in history, art, architecture, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this charming city, Siena has something to offer every visitor.

The cost of a private tour in Siena can vary depending on several factors, including the duration of the tour, the specific attractions or areas you wish to visit, the level of customization, and the number of people in your group. Additionally, prices may vary among different guides, as they set their own prices with ToursByLocals. The cost of a private tour in Siena typically ranges from around $200 - $500. It's important to note that each guide sets their own prices, which is why there can be a large variation between one guide and another. When planning a private tour, be sure to read the 'what's included' and 'what's extra' sections of the tour page. If you don't quite see what you are looking for, you can send a message to the guide and discuss customizing a tour to meet your specific needs and budget.

Here are some of the top tours in Siena, each highly rated with over 25 five star reviews! 1) Highlights of Magic Siena 2) Unforgettable Siena with Major Highlights 3) Walkabout Siena in Two Hours 4) Highlights of Siena private tour with local treats - half day 5) Classic Siena half day tour

ToursByLocals guides set their own prices in order to compensate themselves fairly for the hard work they do and the time spent preparing for the private tour as well as delivering the tour itself. Therefore there is no expectation for ToursByLocals customers to tip their guide. Writing a review after the tour is a great way to show your appreciation to your guide as it helps them receive more inquiries in the future.

Guided tours are perfect for getting in-depth knowledge about the history, culture, and significance of the places you're visiting. If you're interested in learning about Siena from a local expert, a guided tour can be very informative, and an excellent use of your vacation time. A local guide can help bridge the communication gap in areas where English is not widely spoken. If you have limited time in Siena and want to see as much as possible in a short period, a private guided tour can be efficient. That way you are not restricted by a set schedule and can prioritise what you want to see in the time you have. Although private tours are generally more expensive than a group tour, they’re remarkably value: a good guide can provide you with insider tips, hidden gems, and local recommendations that will help you avoid tourist traps or overpriced places during your stay. ToursByLocals guided tours can be tailored to specific interests, such as art, history, or food. If you have a niche interest, a specialised tour can enhance your experience.

Yes, you can hire a tour guide in Siena. Hiring a tour guide can be a great way to enhance your travel experience and gain valuable insights into the local culture, history, and attractions. ToursByLocals has over 15 local guides in Siena who are local experts and offer a wide range of customizable private tours. They will work with you to customize an itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Private tour guides can provide a more personalized experience and offer flexibility in terms of scheduling and activities.

Siena is strategically located in the heart of Tuscany, making it an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region. Here are some fantastic day trip destinations from Siena: San Gimignano: Known as the "Medieval Manhattan" due to its iconic towers, San Gimignano is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Wander through its charming streets, visit the Piazza della Cisterna, and climb one of the towers for panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside. Chianti Region: Just a short drive from Siena lies the picturesque Chianti wine region, famous for its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval villages. Take a scenic drive through the countryside, stop at local wineries for wine tastings, and explore charming towns like Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti. Montalcino: This hilltop town is known for producing one of Italy's finest wines, Brunello di Montalcino. Explore its narrow streets, visit the imposing fortress, and enjoy wine tastings at local wineries. Don't forget to sample some delicious Tuscan cuisine at one of the town's trattorias. Pienza: Known as the "Ideal City of the Renaissance," Pienza is a beautiful hilltop town famous for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture and delicious pecorino cheese. Explore the charming streets, visit the Palazzo Piccolomini, and sample cheese at local shops. Montepulciano: Another picturesque hilltop town famous for its wine, Montepulciano is known for its elegant Renaissance palaces, ancient churches, and winding streets lined with artisan shops. Don't miss the chance to taste the town's renowned Vino Nobile wine. Val d'Orcia: This stunning valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, and charming medieval villages. Take a scenic drive through the valley, stopping at viewpoints and towns like Bagno Vignoni, Monticchiello, and Radicofani along the way. These are just a few of the many wonderful day trip destinations from Siena. Whether you're interested in wine tasting, exploring medieval towns, or simply enjoying the beautiful Tuscan countryside, there's something for everyone to enjoy within easy reach of Siena.

The number of days you should spend touring Siena depends on your interests, pace of travel, and what you want to see and do in the city and its surroundings. Here are some considerations to help you decide: Siena City: To explore the highlights of Siena itself, including Piazza del Campo, the Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena), the Palio di Siena, and the city's museums and historic neighborhoods, you could comfortably spend at least 1 to 2 days. Day Trips: If you plan to use Siena as a base for exploring the surrounding region, you'll need additional time for day trips to nearby towns and attractions. Each day trip destination mentioned earlier (such as San Gimignano, Chianti, Montalcino, Pienza, Montepulciano, and Val d'Orcia) could easily fill a full day of exploration. Wine Tasting and Culinary Experiences: If you're interested in wine tasting, culinary tours, or participating in cooking classes, you may want to allocate extra time in Siena to fully enjoy these experiences without feeling rushed. Relaxation: Siena's relaxed atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it a great place to slow down and enjoy some leisure time. Consider spending an extra day or two simply wandering the city's streets, savoring Tuscan cuisine at local trattorias, and soaking up the ambiance of this charming medieval city. In summary, it is recommended to spend at least 2 to 3 days in Siena to fully experience the city and its surroundings. However, if you have the time and flexibility, extending your stay to 4 or more days would allow for a more leisurely exploration and the opportunity to delve deeper into the rich cultural and culinary experiences that Siena and Tuscany have to offer.

The cost of a 7-day trip to Siena from the US can vary significantly depending on various factors such as: Airfare: The cost of round-trip flights from the US to Italy (likely into nearby airports such as Florence or Pisa) can vary widely depending on factors such as the time of booking, the airline, and the time of year you plan to travel. Prices typically range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars per person. Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Siena can vary depending on factors such as the location, the type of accommodation (e.g., budget hotel, boutique hotel, vacation rental), and the time of year. On average, budget travelers might spend around $50 to $100 per night, while mid-range and luxury accommodations can range from $100 to $300 or more per night. Transportation: Once in Siena, you may incur additional transportation costs for getting around the city and traveling to nearby towns and attractions. This could include public transportation, rental cars, or guided tours. Activities and Attractions: The cost of activities and attractions in Siena and the surrounding area can vary depending on what you choose to do. Some activities, such as visiting museums and historic sites, may have entrance fees, while others, such as wine tastings and guided tours, may require additional payments. Food and Dining: The cost of food and dining will depend on your preferences and budget. Dining out at restaurants can range from budget-friendly trattorias to high-end gourmet establishments. You may also choose to cook your meals if you're staying in accommodations with kitchen facilities. It's difficult to provide an exact estimate without knowing your specific preferences and travel plans, but a rough estimate for a 7-day trip to Siena from the US could range from $1500 to $4000 or more per person, excluding airfare. It's always a good idea to research and plan your trip carefully to get the best value for your money.

When visiting Siena, you have several options for accommodation, ranging from budget friendly to luxurious. Here are some recommendations: Historic City Center: Staying in the historic city center allows you to immerse yourself in Siena's medieval charm and easily explore its attractions on foot. You'll find a variety of accommodation options here, including hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts. Piazza del Campo and the Siena Cathedral are popular areas to stay within the city center. Agriturismos: For a unique experience, consider staying at an agriturismo in the countryside surrounding Siena. These are working farms that offer guest accommodations, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside while still being within a short drive of Siena's attractions. Villas and Country Retreats: If you're traveling with a group or looking for a more private and luxurious option, renting a villa or country retreat in the Sienese countryside can be a great choice. Many of these properties offer amenities such as private pools, gardens, and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Hotels and Resorts: Siena and its surrounding area also offer a range of hotels and resorts catering to different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a boutique hotel in the city center or a luxury resort with spa facilities in the countryside, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. Bed and Breakfasts: For a more intimate and personalized experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast in Siena or the surrounding towns. These accommodations often offer charming rooms, homemade breakfasts, and the opportunity to connect with local hosts. When choosing where to stay in Siena, consider factors such as location, budget, amenities, and the type of experience you're looking for. Whether you prefer the convenience of staying in the city center or the tranquility of the Tuscan countryside, there's accommodation in Siena to suit every traveler's needs.

The best time to visit Siena depends on your preferences and what you hope to experience during your trip. Here are some factors to consider for each season: Spring (March to May): Weather: Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a pleasant time to explore Siena and its surroundings. Crowds: While spring sees fewer tourists compared to the peak summer months, popular attractions may still be busy, especially during Easter and other holidays. Events: Spring in Siena is marked by various cultural events and festivals, including the Palio delle Contrade horse race trials in April and May. Summer (June to August): Weather: Summer in Siena is hot and sunny, with temperatures often reaching their peak in July and August. Crowds: Siena is most crowded during the summer months, especially in July and August when many tourists visit Italy for their summer vacations. Events: The Palio di Siena, held on July 2nd and August 16th, is the highlight of Siena's summer calendar. This traditional horse race draws large crowds and is an exciting event to witness. Fall (September to November): Weather: Fall brings cooler temperatures and the harvest season in Tuscany, making it a great time to explore the countryside surrounding Siena. Crowds: Crowds tend to thin out in the fall compared to the peak summer months, making it a more peaceful time to visit popular attractions. Events: Fall festivals and events in Siena include the Treno Natura (Nature Train) excursions through the Tuscan countryside and various food and wine festivals. Winter (December to February): Weather: Winter in Siena is mild, with cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Snow is rare but possible, especially in the surrounding hills. Crowds: Siena sees fewer tourists in the winter months, allowing visitors to enjoy a quieter and more intimate experience. Events: While there are fewer events and festivals in the winter, Siena's Christmas markets and holiday decorations add festive charm to the city. Overall, the best time to visit Siena depends on your preferences for weather, crowds, and events. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer tourists, making them ideal for exploring the city and surrounding countryside. However, if you want to experience the excitement of the Palio or enjoy hot summer days, then summer may be the best time for you.