Siena Private Walking Tour: Traditions, Streets & Cathedral

Siena, IT
91% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (81 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Private tour for a more personalized experience
  • inclusion
    Other
    Pre-reserved skip-the-line tickets for the Siena Cathedral
  • inclusion
    Other
    Option to climb the unfinished façade , at your own pace
  • inclusion
    Other
    Option to visit the Crypt and the Museum with your guide
  • inclusion
    Other
    Expert local guide with insider's knowledge of Siena
  • inclusion
    Other
    Option to extend the tour 3 hours with the OPA SI Pass
  • inclusion
    Other
    2 or 3 hr walking tour at a relaxed pace depending on the option chosen

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Other
    Transport to the meeting point

Meeting Point

We meet at San Domenico Basilica under the big tree. Your guide will have a sign that says, "Walks In Europe."

Meeting point

Piazza S. Domenico, 1, 53100 Siena SI , Italy

End point

End Point

We meet at San Domenico Basilica under the big tree. Your guide will have a sign that says, "Walks In Europe."

Meeting point

Piazza S. Domenico, 1, 53100 Siena SI , Italy

End point

What to expect

1
Siena

On a guided walking tour, discover Siena, its famous monuments, and hidden treasures. Enjoy skip-the-line tickets to head in faster and start exploring more quickly. Catch quiet moments in tucked-away squares and cobbled streets as you explore the medieval neighborhoods. Enhance your experience with an extended visit to the Cathedral Complex, Crypt, and Museum.

2

Piazza san Domenico

Meet your expert guide and small group tour to walk the streets of Siena. Start exploring the medieval history of Siena and then walk the winding path that offers a beautiful of the Duomo and Torre del Mangia from afar. Stop here for a hot second for a lingering first glance of Siena!

Duration 20 minutes
3

Piazza del Campo

Discover how this seashell-shaped square (a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most squares beautiful in Italy) was the result of an enlightened 14th century government. Siena is a city with deeply-rooted traditions, none more notable than its Palio horse race which for centuries has divided the city into neighborhoods known as "contrade." Learn about the contrade, which become like independent towns that challenge each other twice a year during the Palio! Walk through one of the most typical contrada and be immersed in the authenticity of the atmosphere in Siena. The city's past was glorious, particularly during the Middle Ages, and your guide will explain how even the local pastry reflects its prosperity during that era. Ask your guide where to find the best local bakery that still uses centuries-old recipes to make typical Ricciarelli or Panforte.

Duration 15 minutes
4

Fonte Gaia

See the magnificent Fonte Gaia fountain which adorns the higher part of Piazza del Campo. Take a break as to admire the sides of the piazza which are decorated with reliefs representing The Creation of Adam and The Flight from the Garden of Eden.

Duration 15 minutes
5
Torre del Mangia

Admire the striking tower standing tall in the middle of Piazza del Campo. Listen as your guide explains the medieval politics of Siena which explain why its tower was built at the same height as the cathedral.

Duration 20 minutes
6

Siena Cathedral

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Our pre-booked tickets make entering the stunning Cathedral a breeze, and our small groups or private tours offer each of our guests a more personalized, intimate experience. Skip the line to enter the cathedral with pre-booked tickets. Inside, you'll see the magnificent marble mosaic inlay floor and astonishing decorations by famous Tuscan artists. Discover the medieval masterpieces by Duccio and Pisano, and the cathedral's renowned stained glass. Inside are several other unmissable Renaissance highlights: Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini sculptures, and frescoes by Pinturicchio in the Libreria Piccolomini. Here is where Raphael, then a novice painter, took his first steps towards eternal fame.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Included
7
Museo dell'Opera Metropolitana

Enhance your experience with the extended tour if you want a more profound knowledge of the cathedral’s complex. After a tour inside the Duomo with your knowledgeable guide, continue your adventure at the enchanting Crypt, a true medieval gem. Marvel at the frescoes illustrating biblical episodes that had remained hidden for five hundred years, making the Crypt an authentic time capsule. Admire the vibrant colors, the level of detail, and the beauty of mural paintings. Once outside, you’ll discover the intriguing tale of the unfinished Duomo Nuovo, a visionary project intended to build the largest medieval cathedral in Europe. Visit the Museo dell’Opera and marvel at the original cathedral sculptures by Donatello and Giovanni Pisano, as well as the original stained glass window by Duccio di Buonisegna.

Duration 60 minutes
Admission Admission Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Access to the Facciatone depends on weather permitting.
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Please be aware the Cathedral of Siena is an “operating” church, and it can be closed to visitors for any liturgical reason, even without warning (for the funeral of a Cardinal, for example).
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Tips/gratuities (for your guide) are always appreciated.
Provided by Walks In Europe

What our experts say

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    Try local pastries at a nearby bakery.
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    Visit the Museo dell'Opera for art insights.
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    Climb the Facciatone for great views.
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    The Cathedral may close unexpectedly.
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    Enjoy a coffee in Piazza del Campo.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover Siena with its Cathedral Guided Tour takes you on a journey through the historic streets of this enchanting Italian city. This small group walking tour allows you to explore both the iconic landmarks and hidden treasures while immersing yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Siena. With pre-reserved skip-the-line tickets for the Cathedral, you can dive straight into admiring its sumptuous interior without any delays. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll uncover fascinating anecdotes and stories about the renowned Palio horse race, gaining insights into the city's deep-rooted traditions.

What to expect?

During this 120-minute tour, you can expect to stroll through Siena's well-preserved medieval neighborhoods, such as the Old Ghetto and the Tower District, while enjoying panoramic views from the city's highest point. Discover the secrets of the famous Piazza del Campo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and learn how it reflects the enlightened government of the 14th century. Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of one of Siena's typical contrade, where you can experience the authentic charm of the city. Don't forget to ask your guide for recommendations on the best local bakeries, where you can indulge in traditional Tuscan delights like Ricciarelli or Panforte. Finally, skip the line to enter the cathedral and marvel at its magnificent features, including the medieval masterpieces, stunning stained glass, and Renaissance highlights.

Who is this for?

This guided tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone who wants to dive deep into the cultural heritage of Siena. Whether you're a first-time visitor or have been to Siena before, this experience will provide you with a fresh perspective on the city. It caters to small groups, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience for every participant. The tour is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, as you'll be strolling through the streets at a leisurely pace with plenty of stops along the way.

Why book this?

By booking this guided tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore Siena's most famous monuments and hidden treasures with a local expert. Gain a deeper understanding of the city's history and traditions as your guide shares captivating stories and historical insights. Skip-the-line access to the Cathedral allows you to make the most of your time and fully appreciate its awe-inspiring beauty. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, you'll discover hidden gems, experience the authentic atmosphere of Siena's neighborhoods, and learn about the city's unique cultural heritage. This tour offers a comprehensive and engaging experience that will leave you with lasting memories of Siena.

Good to know

It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers for the walking tour. Siena's streets can be uneven and hilly, so it's important to be prepared for some walking. The tour includes a total duration of 120 minutes, but the pace is leisurely, allowing you to fully enjoy the sights and surroundings. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and architectural wonders along the way. The meeting point for the tour is at San Domenico Basilica under the big tree, where your guide will be waiting with a sign that says "Walks In Europe." Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of Siena with this captivating guided tour.

Reviews

Customers who have taken this guided tour of Siena have praised the knowledgeable and friendly guides who provided fascinating insights into the city's history and culture. They appreciated the skip-the-line access to the Cathedral, allowing them to fully appreciate its stunning interior. Participants loved exploring the hidden corners of Siena, discovering its traditional neighborhoods, and enjoying the panoramic views from the highest point. Many reviewers mentioned that the tour exceeded their expectations and highly recommended it to others visiting Siena. Overall, the feedback highlights the enriching and immersive experience this tour offers, making it a must-do for anyone wanting to fully discover the treasures of Siena.

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