Tuesday 15 April 2014

Small-Group San Gimignano and Volterra Day Trip from Siena

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Embrace the medieval charms of Tuscany's towns on a full-day trip to San Gimignano and Volterra from Siena. With an attentive local guide, walk round the Fortress of Monteriggioni, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of San Gimignano, and visit an alabaster workshop in Volterra. Enjoy a delicious lunch on a small Tuscan farm and spend time at your leisure exploring these rustic hill towns that are steeped in rich Italian history.

Numbers are limited to eight people on this small-group tour, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention from your guide.
Highlights
  • Pickup from a centrally located meeting point
  • Seasonal Offer
  • Lunch included
  • Informative, friendly and professional guide
Leave Siena in the morning and head northwest by comfortable minivan toward San Gimignano. On your way, stop at the medieval Fortress of Monteriggioni, a captivating Tuscan hill town that is one of the few whose medieval city walls remain completely intact. Walk around the stone walls encircling this charming town and learn about the area’s interesting history from your guide.

From Monteriggioni, continue to the beautiful hill town of San Gimignano -- undoubtedly the highlight of your trip. Walk down the Via Francigena strip that runs through the town as your guide explains the history of this ancient pilgrimage road said to link Rome to Canterbury in England. Learn how in bygone times, Christian pilgrims would travel between cities in Italy, Switzerland, France and England on this road.

After tracing the pilgrim's steps down Via Francigena, you'll have time for independent sightseeing in San Gimignano. This gorgeous, UNESCO World Heritage-listed town is as famous for its medieval architecture as it is for its scenic views. See beautiful monuments in Piazza del Duomo, or search the local shops for quality saffron spice that the town produces, known locally as ‘red gold.’ Perhaps check out Palazzo Communale and climb up Torre Grossa (own expense). The climb is steep but worthwhile -- simply for the panoramic views of Tuscany from the top!

Break for lunch at a traditional, family-run farm just outside of San Gimignano, and indulge in a Tuscan feast! Your friendly Italian hosts will treat you to scrumptious platters of home-grown delicacies prepared with organic saffron, accompanied by chilled Vernaccia white wine.

In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive farther south to Volterra. The fascinating Tuscan city is renowned for its alabaster -- the translucent stone used for centuries to create vases, lamps and other works of art. On the way, visit an authentic alabaster workshop and watch an artisan craftsman at work. In Volterra itself, you'll have approximately one hour to spend at leisure to explore the picturesque streets before returning to Siena.

Schedule details

Small-Group San Gimignano and Volterra Day Trip from Siena
Volterra
Select a month to view a calendar of availability and departure details.

Departure Point:
San Domenico Basilica
Departure Time:
    9:30am
Return Details:
Returns to original departure point

Pricing information

Click the link below to check pricing & availability on your preferred travel date. Our pricing is constantly updated to ensure you always receive the lowest price possible.

Additional information

Small-Group San Gimignano and Volterra Day Trip from Siena
Beautiful towers in San Gimignano
Inclusions:
  • Driver/guide
  • Lunch
  • Transport by air-conditioned minivan
  • Visit to alabaster workshop
    Exclusions:
    • Gratuities (optional)
    • Hotel pickup and drop-off
    Additional Information:
    • Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability
      Voucher Info:
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      Local Operator Information:
      Complete Operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, are included on your Confirmation Voucher. Our Product Managers select only the most experienced and reliable operators in each destination, removing the guesswork for you, and ensuring your peace of mind.

      Skip the Line: Siena Duomo and City Walking Tour ACTIVITIES



      TOUR DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY VIATOR

      Immerse yourself in Italy’s history on this 2-hour sightseeing tour. Explore Siena's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town; discover Siena's central square, Piazza del Campo; and visit the stunning Siena Duomo (Siena Cathedral) with your fast-track, skip-the-line entrance ticket. As you walk through this incredibly beautiful Tuscan city with your expert guide, you'll feel as though you’ve journeyed back in time.
      To begin your walking tour of Siena, meet your friendly guide in Siena's famous Piazza del Campo, a gorgeous square that represents day-to-day life of this medieval city and is widely considered one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.

      Explore Siena’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town by foot and listen as your guide points out Palazzo Tolomei, which is said to be the oldest private palace in Siena. See the imposing stone tower of Palazzo Chigi Saracini, a palace erected in the mid-12th century by the powerful Marescotti family. Currently, this building is the seat of the prestigious Accademia Musicale, founded in 1923. Next, walk to the magnificent Basilica of San Domenico and admire its Gothic architecture constructed entirely in brick.

      Continue your tour to one of the most spectacular cathedrals in Italy, the Siena Duomo (Siena Cathedral), named locally as Il Duomo. After skipping the entrance line with your skip-the-line ticket, your guide will escort you into this breathtaking cathedral to see impressive masterpieces by Donatello, Bernini and Michelangelo. Admire the exquisite Gothic architecture; walk through nave arcades with Renaissance busts of popes and emperors; and marvel at the unique black-and-white-striped bell tower.

      After your tour, you’ll leave feeling truly enchanted.

      WHAT'S INCLUDED

      • Guided walking tour of siena
      • Skip-the-line entrance ticket to siena duomo
      • Guided tour of siena duomo

      WHAT ISN'T INCLUDED

      • Gratuities (optional)
      • Hotel pickup and drop-off
      • Food and drinks, unless specified


      Read more:http://www.lonelyplanet.com/world/activities/history-culture/skip-line-siena-duomo-city-walking-tour#ixzz2yyTKKmhS

      Florence Photography Walking Tour: Palaces, Palazzos and Bridges



      TOUR DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY VIATOR

      Imagine yourself walking around Florence, the city of Renaissance, with an expert photographer taking great pictures and visiting beautiful places while enjoying fabulous food and Italian culture.
      Experience Florence in the afternoon with a native Florentine who will teach you how to create beautiful photos in the city where the Renaissance was born. Highlights include: From Pitti Palace a walk in Boboli's Garden then to Signoria Square through Ponte Vecchio (along the Vasari corridor), Orsanmichele, Repubblica square and S. Trinita Bridge.

      Your Florence Photography Walking Tour ends at S.Trinita Bridge.

      Some of the things you will learn:
      • how to use light and shadows, colours and forms in a creative way
      • how to use photographic techniques to create your personal vision
      • how to get the best photos in every situation
      • how to be always ready to capture the moment.

      WHAT'S INCLUDED

      • Walking tour
      • Professional photographer guide

      WHAT ISN'T INCLUDED

      • Entrance fees
      • Camera and film
      • Gratuities (optional)
      • Hotel pickup and drop off
      • Food and drinks


      Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/florence/activities/courses-classes/florence-photography-walking-tour-palaces-palazzos-bridges#ixzz2yySuuWat

      Small-Group San Gimignano and Volterra Day Trip from Siena


      TOUR DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY VIATOR

      Embrace the medieval charms of Tuscany's towns on a full-day trip to San Gimignano and Volterra from Siena. With an attentive local guide, walk round the Fortress of Monteriggioni, explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of San Gimignano, and visit an alabaster workshop in Volterra. Enjoy a delicious lunch on a small Tuscan farm and spend time at your leisure exploring these rustic hill towns that are steeped in rich Italian history.

      Numbers are limited to eight people on this small-group tour, ensuring you'll receive personalized attention from your guide.
      Leave Siena in the morning and head northwest by comfortable minivan toward San Gimignano. On your way, stop at the medieval Fortress of Monteriggioni, a captivating Tuscan hill town that is one of the few whose medieval city walls remain completely intact. Walk around the stone walls encircling this charming town and learn about the area’s interesting history from your guide.

      From Monteriggioni, continue to the beautiful hill town of San Gimignano -- undoubtedly the highlight of your trip. Walk down the Via Francigena strip that runs through the town as your guide explains the history of this ancient pilgrimage road said to link Rome to Canterbury in England. Learn how in bygone times, Christian pilgrims would travel between cities in Italy, Switzerland, France and England on this road.

      After tracing the pilgrim's steps down Via Francigena, you'll have time for independent sightseeing in San Gimignano. This gorgeous, UNESCO World Heritage-listed town is as famous for its medieval architecture as it is for its scenic views. See beautiful monuments in Piazza del Duomo, or search the local shops for quality saffron spice that the town produces, known locally as ‘red gold.’ Perhaps check out Palazzo Communale and climb up Torre Grossa (own expense). The climb is steep but worthwhile -- simply for the panoramic views of Tuscany from the top!

      Break for lunch at a traditional, family-run farm just outside of San Gimignano, and indulge in a Tuscan feast! Your friendly Italian hosts will treat you to scrumptious platters of home-grown delicacies prepared with organic saffron, accompanied by chilled Vernaccia white wine.

      In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive farther south to Volterra. The fascinating Tuscan city is renowned for its alabaster -- the translucent stone used for centuries to create vases, lamps and other works of art. On the way, visit an authentic alabaster workshop and watch an artisan craftsman at work. In Volterra itself, you'll have approximately one hour to spend at leisure to explore the picturesque streets before returning to Siena.

      WHAT'S INCLUDED

      • Driver/guide
      • Lunch
      • Transport by air-conditioned minivan
      • Visit to alabaster workshop

      WHAT ISN'T INCLUDED

      • Gratuities (optional)
      • Hotel pickup and drop-off


      Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/tuscany/val-d-elsa/activities/sightseeing-tours/small-group-san-gimignano-volterra-day-trip-siena#ixzz2yySWNsWv

      Private Arrival Transfer: Florence Train Station


      TOUR DESCRIPTION PROVIDED BY VIATOR

      There is only one way to travel from Santa Maria Novella railway station in florence to your central Florence Hotel, by a private vehicle! Book this transfer for a fast, friendly and hassle-free journey to your hotel. Transfer services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for up to 8 people per vehicle.
      When making a booking, you will need to advise your train details and your Florence city hotel. Your transfer will be confirmed within 24 hours and you will be provided with a travel voucher to present to the driver. It's that easy!

      Price is per person, based on 8 adults per car/vehicle.

      WHAT'S INCLUDED

      • One-way private transfer
      • Meet and assist at the station

      WHAT ISN'T INCLUDED

      • Gratuities (optional)
      • Food and drinks, unless specified


      Read more:http://www.lonelyplanet.com/italy/florence/activities/transportation-travel-services/private-arrival-transfer-florence-train-station#ixzz2yyRwt81P