Exploring the enchanting towns of Siena and San Gimignano alongside a Chianti wine tasting is a captivating way to experience the essence of Tuscany. This small-group tour from Lucca offers an immersive journey through the region’s rich cultural heritage, allowing visitors to uncover historic landmarks, savor exquisite wines, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes. With knowledgeable guides and thoughtful inclusions, the tour promises an unforgettable day. But the true wonder lies in the moments yet to be discovered, as travelers embark on this enchanting adventure through the heart of Tuscany.
Good To Know
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This full-day small-group tour takes you to the UNESCO-listed towns of San Gimignano and Siena, as well as a Tuscan winery for wine and olive oil tasting.
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The tour includes guided exploration of the historic city centers, with ample time to wander and discover the iconic landmarks and medieval architecture.
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Lunch featuring local Tuscan specialties is provided, and complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Lucca ensure a convenient and streamlined experience.
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With a maximum group size, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides who provide in-depth insights into the region’s rich history and culture.
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The tour has an overall rating of 4.5 stars based on 18 reviews, highlighting the satisfaction of past participants with the tour’s highlights and logistics.
Tour Overview
What does this small-group tour from Lucca entail? The full-day excursion takes travelers to the UNESCO-listed town of San Gimignano, often called "Medieval Manhattan" for its iconic stone towers.
Visitors will also explore the historic city of Siena, home to the renowned Palio horse race. Along the way, there’s a wine tasting at a winery in the Tuscan hills.
The tour, which lasts approximately 11 hours, includes round-trip transportation by air-conditioned minivan, a light lunch, and complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off in Lucca.
With a maximum group size, travelers can look forward to a more intimate and personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lucca.
Inclusions and Logistics
The tour includes wine tasting (2 glasses), Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and a light lunch, all of which are provided.
Transportation is by air-conditioned minivan, and hotel pickup and drop-off at Porta San Pietro in Lucca are included.
The meeting point is at Sortita Porta S. Pietro in Lucca, with a 7:45 am start time.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infant seats are available.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.
Prices start from $177.85, with variations based on group size.
Key Attractions
The tour takes visitors to see some of Tuscany’s most renowned landmarks.
First, guests will explore Piazza del Campo, the famous square in Siena that hosts the city’s renowned Palio horse race. Visitors can spend around 30 minutes taking in the stunning architecture and atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Next, the group will visit the Duomo di Siena, the city’s magnificent cathedral, for a 10-minute visit.
The tour then heads to San Gimignano, known as the "Medieval Manhattan" for its well-preserved stone towers. Guests can spend time wandering through this charming medieval village and its iconic landmarks.
Tour Experience and Reviews
With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 18 reviews, the Siena and San Gimignano tour has garnered positive feedback from guests. Highlights include the knowledgeable guides and ample time spent at key sites. Visitors appreciated the guides’ expertise and friendliness, though some expressed disappointment regarding the limited winery visits, with only one tasting in San Gimignano.
Positive Feedback | Negative Feedback |
---|---|
Knowledgeable guides | Limited winery visits |
Ample time at sites | Only one tasting in San Gimignano |
Enjoyable wine tastings | – |
The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Siena and San Gimignano, complemented by a scenic wine tasting in the Tuscan hills.
Tour Duration
The Siena and San Gimignano tour is a full-day experience, lasting approximately 11 hours.
This comprehensive itinerary allows visitors to fully enjoy the rich history and stunning landscapes of Tuscany.
The tour includes:
- Exploring the UNESCO-listed medieval town of San Gimignano, known for its iconic stone towers.
- Visiting the historic city of Siena, home to the famous Palio horse race.
- Enjoying a wine tasting at a traditional Tuscan winery.
- Complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, making the logistics seamless.
With ample time at each destination, this tour provides a well-rounded and memorable exploration of Tuscany’s cultural treasures.
Meeting Point and Pickup
The tour meeting point is at Sortita Porta S. Pietro, 55100 Lucca LU, Italy.
Pickup is provided from this location, which is Porta San Pietro in Lucca.
The tour starts at 7:45 am, ensuring an early start to make the most of the day.
Travelers are advised to arrive at the meeting point on time, as the tour operates as a small-group experience and won’t wait for late arrivals.
Free hotel pickup and drop-off at the same location are included, making the logistics convenient for participants.
This comprehensive tour covers the highlights of Siena and San Gimignano, with a wine tasting experience in the Tuscan hills.
Winery Tasting and Lunch
After exploring the historical sites in Siena, the tour takes participants to a renowned winery nestled in the Tuscan hills.
Here, guests have the opportunity to indulge in a tasting of the region’s finest wines. The experience includes:
- Two glasses of the winery’s signature red and white wines.
- A sampling of the estate’s award-winning extra virgin olive oil.
- An informative guided tour of the winery’s vineyards and cellars.
- A delectable Tuscan-style lunch featuring local specialties and seasonal produce.
This winery visit allows travelers to fully enjoy the rich culinary and viticultural heritage of the Chianti region.
Accessibility and Pricing
Accessibility and pricing are key considerations for those interested in this tour. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though most travelers can participate.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infant seats are available. Pricing for the tour varies based on group size, starting at $177.85 per person.
This full-day tour lasts approximately 11 hours and includes wine tasting, olive oil tasting, lunch, and transportation by air-conditioned minivan.
Free hotel pickup and drop-off are provided at Porta San Pietro in Lucca. Travelers can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour does not have a strict dress code, but comfortable walking shoes and casual, weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Visitors should dress comfortably for a day of sightseeing and light hiking.
Can We Take Photos During the Wine Tasting?
Yes, guests can take photos during the wine tasting. The tour allows ample time for guests to capture memories of the winery and the tasting experience as part of the overall tour.
Do We Have Time for Shopping in Siena and San Gimignano?
The tour allows time for shopping in Siena and San Gimignano, with ample time to explore the medieval villages. However, the focus is on the key attractions, so shopping time may be limited.
Can We Stop for Bathroom Breaks During the Tour?
The tour includes restroom breaks during the day, providing travelers with opportunities to use the facilities at the various sites and during the wine tasting. Comfort and convenience are prioritized throughout the excursion.
Are Vegetarian or Gluten-Free Lunch Options Available?
The tour offers vegetarian and gluten-free lunch options. Guests should inform the tour operator of any dietary requirements when booking to ensure their needs are accommodated during the day.
The Sum Up
This Siena and San Gimignano tour from Lucca provides an immersive experience in the picturesque Tuscan countryside. Visitors can explore the UNESCO-listed towns, marvel at historic landmarks, and indulge in a delightful wine tasting and lunch. The small-group format ensures a personalized and intimate tour, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of this enchanting region.
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