Siena and San Gimignano
A full day excursion to two of the medieval jewels of Tuscany, Siena and San Gimignano.Together with Florence and Pisa, Siena is one of the leading art cities in Tuscany. This city has managed to preserve its medieval character completely. You begin your visit to San Domenico, a church much frequented for its venerated relics of Saint Catherine, patron saint of Italy and Europe. Then, you will head for the magnificent palace, Monte dei Paschi Bank, which was founded in 1472 and is the oldest bank in Europe.From there, visit nearby Piazza del Campo, the unrivaled center of vivid city life. Here, your guide explains the Palio, Siena’s breathtaking bareback horse race. With a stop at the Chigi-Saracini Palace, you finally reach the Duomo, with its marble pavement made with a startling sequence of 56 marble panels. After some free time in Siena your tour continues to San Gimignano. The town’s 14 remaining towers visible from a distance, makes the town a remarkabe sight. It is one of the best preserved medieval towns in Tuscany. You will have time to explore on your own. Walk through the wonderfully preserved town square at the Piazza della Cisterna and visit the 13th century town hall – the Palazzo del Popolo. There are great views from the Rocca citadel and the entire town is an excellent place to stroll and soak up the atmosphere.
