About this tour
A 10–12 hour private excursion from Rome into the Tuscan countryside, visiting two medieval strongholds. Start in Siena with a three-hour guided walk through its hilltop streets, taking in the dramatic Piazza del Campo (stage of the legendary Palio horse races), the soaring Torre del Mangia, and the Duomo—whose interior dazzles with contrasting marble, Renaissance artwork, and Michelangelo sculpture. Continue to San Gimignano, a fortified town of tower-houses and narrow alleyways that flourished in the Middle Ages. Travel by private car with an English-speaking escort.
Highlights
- Piazza del Campo: vast medieval plaza and twice-yearly Palio racecourse
- Duomo interior: black-and-white marble, frescoes, Michelangelo's St. Peter sculpture
- Torre del Mangia: climb one of Italy's second-highest towers
- San Gimignano's tower-studded skyline and cobbled medieval streets
- Basilica Cateriniana S.Domenico in Siena
- Private guide throughout; luxury vehicle with chauffeur
- Countryside views between towns from the car
What to expect
You'll be collected from your Rome accommodation and driven to Siena, arriving mid-morning. Your guide leads you through the city's winding streets on foot, stopping at key monuments and explaining local history. You'll have time to explore the Piazza del Campo—a sloped shell-shaped plaza where neighbourhoods compete in the Palio—and enter the Duomo to see its extravagant interior up close. After lunch (on your own), you'll head to San Gimignano for an hour's walk among its surviving medieval towers and quieter piazzas. The drive back to Rome takes roughly three hours; you'll arrive early evening.
Good to know
Wear comfortable walking shoes; Siena's streets are steep and cobbled. Knees and shoulders must be covered when entering churches—plan accordingly or bring a light scarf. Bring water and sun protection. Food and drinks aren't included; eat lunch in Siena between the two towns. A gratuity for your guide is customary if satisfied.
Tour sold and operated by Viator via Viator. Descriptions on this page are original BugBitten summaries written by our team — not copied from the operator. Prices and availability are confirmed at checkout.