Siena: Guided Tour of Siena INCLUDING the Cathedral or Museum

Siena, a historic Italian city, beckons travelers with its captivating charm. A guided tour through Siena’s iconic landmarks offers a chance to take in the city’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you choose to explore the magnificent Duomo or explore the treasures of the Santa Maria della Scala Museum, this tour promises an enriching experience. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, visitors can uncover the stories behind Siena’s architectural marvels, from the Piazza Salimbeni to the renowned Piazza del Campo. As you navigate the city’s winding streets, prepare to be captivated by Siena’s timeless allure.

Good To Know

• The tour includes guided visits to the Duomo of Siena or the Santa Maria della Scala Museum, subject to accessibility and COVID-19 guidelines.
• Visitors can explore the iconic Piazza del Campo, home to the famous Palio horse race, and learn about its history and significance.
• The tour starts at Piazza Salimbeni, the oldest bank in Europe, and provides insights into the city’s rich cultural and architectural heritage.
• The meeting and ending points are wheelchair and stroller accessible, though the tour route includes steep climbs and descents throughout Siena.
• Mandatory face masks, physical distancing, and limited group size are enforced to ensure the safety of participants during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Tour Overview

This guided tour of Siena, Italy offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks.

Over the course of approximately two hours, the tour takes participants to the Piazza Salimbeni, home to the oldest bank in Europe since 1472, and the famous Piazza del Campo, known for the thrilling Palio horse race.

Guests can choose between visiting the Duomo or the Santa Maria della Scala Museum, depending on the cathedral’s accessibility.

The tour also includes lesser-known corners of Siena, providing insights into the local culture and history.

With adult tickets priced at €30 and reduced rates for children, this guided excursion is an excellent way to discover the beauty and charm of this remarkable Italian city.

Meeting and Ending Points

The tour begins at Piazza Salimbeni, 53100 Siena SI, Italy, where participants gather at 11am for the English-language tour and 12:15pm for the Italian-language tour.

The tour ends at Piazza del Duomo, 53100 Siena SI, Italy.

The meeting and ending points are wheelchair and stroller accessible, though visitors should note the steep climbs and descents throughout Siena.

The tour is designed to provide an engaging overview of Siena’s historic center, highlighting lesser-known corners and insights into the local culture and history.

Tour Highlights

The tour begins at Piazza Salimbeni, the oldest bank in Europe since 1472.

From there, visitors will explore the historic Piazza del Campo, renowned for the famous Palio horse race held on July 2 and August 16.

The guide will also take guests to lesser-known corners of Siena, offering insights into the city’s rich culture and history.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the architectural wonders and hidden gems that make Siena such a captivating destination.

Whether you’re interested in art, history, or simply soaking in the authentic Italian atmosphere, this tour promises to deliver a well-rounded and immersive experience.

Health and Safety

Currently, the guided tour of Siena’s cathedral is not included due to health guidelines related to COVID-19. The tour operator has implemented the following health and safety measures to ensure a safe experience:

Measure	Details
Face Masks	Mandatory for all participants
Physical Distancing	Enforced throughout the tour
Hand Sanitization	Hand sanitizer provided at key points
Group Size	Limited to allow for distancing

These precautions are in place to protect both visitors and the local community. Participants are expected to follow all guidelines throughout the tour for a safe and enjoyable experience in Siena.

Reviews and Feedback

According to reviews, the guided tour of Siena has an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 based on 35 reviews.

The majority of reviewers rated the tour 5 stars, praising the knowledgeable guides and the tour’s good introduction to Siena.

However, some guests encountered difficulties finding the meeting point and experienced language barriers between English and Italian.

Plus, a few reviewers mentioned issues with the clarity of their guides.

Exploring Siena’s Piazza Salimbeni

Piazza Salimbeni serves as the starting point for this guided tour of Siena. This historic square is home to the oldest bank in Europe, founded in 1472.

Visitors will learn about the architectural features of the buildings surrounding the piazza, including the Palazzo dei Salimbeni. The tour guide will provide insights into the significance of this important financial center and its role in Siena’s past.

From here, the group will venture deeper into the city, exploring Siena’s winding streets and iconic landmarks like Piazza del Campo.

Throughout the tour, the guide will share fascinating anecdotes and historical context, giving participants a well-rounded understanding of Siena’s rich cultural heritage.

Discovering Piazza Del Campo

From the historic Piazza Salimbeni, the tour moves on to explore the iconic Piazza del Campo, the heart of Siena.

This unique shell-shaped square is known worldwide for hosting the famous Palio horse race on July 2 and August 16. Visitors will marvel at the stunning architecture, including the imposing Palazzo Pubblico and its famous Torre del Mangia.

The guide will share insights into the square’s rich history and the role it plays in Sienese culture. Guests will have the opportunity to soak in the lively atmosphere and imagine the excitement of the Palio race.

The tour then continues to explore lesser-known corners of Siena, providing a deeper understanding of the city’s heritage.

Navigating Siena’s Accessibility

Siena’s historic streets and landmarks require some navigational considerations for visitors. The meeting point at Piazza Salimbeni is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

However, the tour route includes steep climbs and descents throughout Siena’s winding roads. Visitors with mobility challenges should note these physical constraints. The ending point at Piazza del Duomo is also accessible.

While the guided tour give you a comprehensive experience, the cathedral visit is currently unavailable due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Travelers are advised to consider their physical abilities when booking this tour to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience exploring Siena’s rich cultural heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

The tour allows photography, but participants should check with the guide for any restrictions or limitations. Photography may be prohibited in certain areas, such as the cathedral, due to preservation or religious reasons.

Can We Stop for a Meal or Drink During the Tour?

The tour typically does not include stops for meals or drinks. However, guests may have the opportunity to purchase refreshments before or after the guided portion at their own expense and discretion.

Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour?

Audio guides are not mentioned as part of this tour. The tour focuses on a guided walking experience through Siena’s highlights. Visitors should expect a personal tour led by a knowledgeable guide rather than a self-guided audio experience.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy allows full refunds for cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. Customers should check the tour provider’s website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date cancellation details.

Can We Customize the Tour to Focus on Specific Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to focus on specific interests. Guests can work with the tour operator to tailor the itinerary and highlight areas of personal interest within the city of Siena. Additional fees may apply for customized tours.

The Sum Up

Siena’s guided tour offers a captivating journey through the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore the Piazza Salimbeni, Piazza del Campo, and the option to visit the stunning Duomo or Santa Maria della Scala Museum. Knowledgeable guides provide engaging narratives, enhancing the experience of navigating Siena’s charming streets. The tour’s accessibility and duration make it an excellent choice for those seeking to enjoy Siena’s remarkable cultural heritage.