Siena: Walking Tour and Skip-the-Line Duomo Tickets

Siena, a captivating city in the heart of Tuscany, beckons visitors to discover its rich heritage and architectural wonders. This guided walking tour offers a chance to explore the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, while skipping the lines to admire the stunning Duomo. With an expert local guide, you’ll explore Siena’s traditions, from the iconic Palio horse race to the masterpieces that adorn the city’s sacred spaces. Prepare to be enchanted by the timeless charm of this medieval gem, as you uncover the stories that have shaped its unique identity.

Key Points

• This 2-hour guided walking tour in Siena’s historic center provides skip-the-line access to the Duomo, allowing visitors to marvel at its masterpieces.
• Highlights include visiting the Basilica of San Domenico, Palazzo Salimbeni, and Palazzo Tolomei, as well as learning about the Palio horse race.
• The tour is conducted in English by authorized local guides and is suitable for small, intimate groups.
• The tour price starts from $43.27 per person, and a full refund is available with 24-hour notice.
• The meeting point is at Piazza San Domenico, and comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the cobblestone streets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "Siena: Walking Tour and Skip-the-Line Duomo Tickets" offers a comprehensive 2-hour guided experience that allows visitors to explore the historic center of Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Priced from $43.27 per person, the tour is conducted in English and provides skip-the-line access to the renowned Duomo. Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes highlights like the Basilica of San Domenico, Palazzo Salimbeni, and Palazzo Tolomei, as well as insights into Siena’s traditions, such as the Palio horse race.

Led by authorized local guides, the tour provides exceptional value.

Highlights and Attractions

Explore Siena’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on this walking tour. The tour allows you to:

1. Visit the Basilica of San Domenico and learn about St Catherine, the patron saint of Italy.

2. Marvel at the Duomo, featuring masterpieces by renowned artists like Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

3. Discover Palazzo Salimbeni, the world’s oldest bank, and Palazzo Tolomei, a striking Gothic building.

4. Learn about the Palio, Siena’s famous bare-back horse race around the iconic Piazza del Campo.

You’ll gain insights into local traditions, history, and culinary practices during this comprehensive walking tour.

Tour Experience

On this walking tour, you’ll enjoy a guided exploration through Siena’s narrow cobblestone streets. Your knowledgeable, English-speaking guide will provide insights into the city’s local traditions, history, and culinary practices. The highlight of the tour is skipping the ticket line for fast-track entry to the magnificent Duomo, allowing you to marvel at the masterpieces by renowned artists like Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Throughout the experience, you’ll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the UNESCO-listed historic center of Siena.

| Tour Features | Details |

| — | — |

| Duration | 2 hours |

| Group Size | Small, intimate groups |

| Inclusions | Guided walking tour, skip-the-line Duomo tickets |

| Exclusions | Tips/gratuities |

Customer Feedback

According to over 793 reviews, customers have overwhelmingly praised this Siena walking tour, rating it an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars.

The guide quality stands out with a 4.9/5 rating, and the tour’s value for money earns a solid 4.6/5.

Positive reviews highlight:

Positive reviews highlight the informative and engaging nature of the tour, providing insights into local traditions and history.

1. The informative and engaging nature of the tour, providing insights into local traditions and history.

2. The stunning beauty of the Duomo, with its masterpieces by renowned artists.

3. The convenience of the skip-the-line entry, allowing for quick access to the cathedral.

4. The guide’s expertise and enthusiasm in bringing the city’s rich heritage to life.

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Important Information

The tour meeting point is at Piazza San Domenico, under the large tree in front of the Basilica of San Domenico.

Comfortable walking shoes are advised due to the cobblestone streets of Siena’s historic center.

The 2-hour guided tour includes skip-the-line entrance tickets to the magnificent Duomo. Hotel pick-up is also provided. Tips and gratuities aren’t included in the tour price.

This walking tour allows visitors to explore Siena’s UNESCO-listed historic center, marvel at the Duomo’s masterpieces, and learn about the city’s rich history and traditions from an authorized English-speaking local guide.

Exploring Siena’s Historic Center

As visitors embark on the Siena Walking Tour, they’ll be captivated by the city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The tour offers a chance to:

1. Admire the Basilica of San Domenico, where the remains of St. Catherine, the patron saint of Italy, are enshrined.

2. Marvel at the Duomo, a stunning cathedral featuring masterpieces by renowned artists like Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

3. Discover Palazzo Salimbeni, the world’s oldest bank, and Palazzo Tolomei, a magnificent Gothic building.

4. Learn about the Palio, Siena’s famous bare-back horse race that takes place in the iconic Piazza del Campo.

Discovering the Duomo’s Masterpieces

Though the Basilica of San Domenico and the historic buildings captivate visitors, the city’s crown jewel remains the Duomo, or Cathedral of Siena. An architectural masterpiece, the Duomo features stunning works by renowned artists like Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Visitors can marvel at the intricate marble facade, the ornate pulpit, and the breathtaking frescoes adorning the interior. To ensure a seamless experience, the tour includes skip-the-line tickets, allowing guests to bypass the queues and maximize their time exploring this remarkable cathedral.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Donatello’s Pulpit | Exquisite marble pulpit with intricate carvings |

| Michelangelo’s Sculptures | Captivating sculptures adorning the Duomo’s interior |

| Bernini’s Masterpieces | Awe-inspiring frescoes and artworks by the renowned Baroque artist |

The Palio: Siena’s Traditional Horse Race

While Siena’s historic center and magnificent Duomo captivate visitors, the city’s most renowned tradition is the Palio – a bare-back horse race that has been held in Piazza del Campo for centuries.

The Palio is a fierce competition between Siena’s 17 contrade, or neighborhoods, each represented by a horse and jockey. The race itself lasts only 90 seconds, but the preparation and celebrations surrounding it are year-round events.

The Palio is a fierce competition between Siena’s 17 contrade, with each neighborhood represented by a horse and jockey in a thrilling 90-second race.

Key features of the Palio include:

1. Colorful flag-waving ceremonies

2. Elaborate costumes and pageantry

3. Intense rivalry between the contrade

4. The dangerous, high-speed race around the historic square

Ask Away

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour allows photography, but visitors should be mindful of any restrictions or rules within the Duomo. Photography policies may vary, so it’s best to check with the guide for guidance during the tour.

Can I Bring My Own Water or Snacks on the Tour?

Participants are generally allowed to bring their own water and snacks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm any specific policies or restrictions regarding food and drink during the tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?

The tour is generally wheelchair and stroller accessible, though some areas may have limited accessibility due to the historic nature of Siena’s cobblestone streets. It’s recommended to check with the tour provider for specific details on accessibility accommodations.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Headphones for the Audio Guide?

No, you don’t need to bring your own headphones. The tour provides audio equipment for the guided portion, so you can easily hear the commentary during the walking tour.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration if I Want to Explore More?

You can generally extend the tour duration, but you’ll need to inquire about options and additional fees with the tour provider. They may be able to accommodate your request to explore more, subject to availability.

Final Words

Siena’s walking tour and skip-the-line Duomo tickets offer visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s rich history and architectural beauty. With knowledgeable guides, travelers can explore the historic center, marvel at the Duomo’s masterpieces, and gain insight into the Palio, Siena’s famous horse race. This tour provides an engaging and efficient way to uncover the charm and traditions of this UNESCO-listed gem.

You can check availability for your dates here: