Private Siena Walking Tour

Your guide will tell of the city's fascinating history as you explore famous landmarks like Piazza del Campo, and hidden gems including a historic pastry shop where you can try some of Siena's most popular delicacies. Best of all, as a private tour you'll move at a pace that suits you, and your guide can tailor to itinerary to suit your interests.By the end, you'll feel like a Sienese local!

Private Siena Walking Tour Description

Your 3-hour city tour includes:

• Private walking tour of Siena's highlights and hidden gems

• Skip-the-line Duomo tickets

• See St. Catherine's remains, discover Sienese pastries, and more!

• Your own friendly, English-speaking local guide

Basilica di San Domenico & St. Catherine's Remains

Your local guide will be waiting for you outside the Basilica di San Domenico, a gorgeous red brick Gothic church that sits in Piazza San Domenico. Before starting your walk down the medieval cobblestone streets of the city, you'll head inside to see the jaw-dropping remains of Saint Catherine of Siena.

Born to a family of 25 children, Catherine was known for her religious visions and became known as the Doctor of Unity for her role in helping return the Papacy to Rome. As a unique (and slightly disturbing) tribute, the mummified head of St. Catherine sits on display in the basilica.

Siena Walking Tour

After the basilica, your guide will lead you through the pretty cobblestone streets of historic Siena, taking in all the highlights plus many spots that most tourists miss.

Once capital of the powerful Republic of Siena which lasted over 400 years, the region was absorbed into its neighbor and rival, the Republic of Florence, during the 16th century. Beautifully-preserved monuments and architecture from that era still characterize this city, including what is thought to be the oldest back in the world!

Elsewhere, visit the red-brick Palazzo Pubblico (town hall), the She-Wolf of Siena statue, and the iconic Torre del Mangia clock tower.

Famous Pastries of Siena

Along your journey, you'll stop to learn about some traditional Sienese delicacies at one of Siena’s historic pastry shops. Taste some, like panforte and ricciarelli. Sweet and creamy, these almond cookies are dusted with sugar icing and available in shops throughout Siena, and this is a great chance to buy some unique foodie gifts to take home.

Skip-the-Line Siena Duomo Tour

Completed between 1215 and 1263, this medieval cathedral is unquestionably one of Italy's finest Gothic churches, and its understandable Siena's most visited attraction. However busy, you won;t have to worry about waiting in line as you guide leads you straight in to start exploring. Siena's cathedral is equally stunning inside and out, and features the work of Italy's finest artists of the day including Nicola and Giovanni Pisano, Donatello, Pinturicchio, Lorenzo Ghiberti, and Bernini.

Piazza del Campo

Home to the famous Palio di Siena horse race, the Piazza del Campo is the main public square in Siena. Twice a year, ten riders circle the square, riding bareback and dressed in the appropriate colors of the contrada (ancient district) they represent. Each year, a representative from 10 out of 17 contrade is selected for the famous horse race.

Your guide will explain the history and meaning of this one-of-a-kind sporting event as you take in the sights of the piazza.

Tap Into a Wealth of Local Knowledge

Tuscany is a region famed for food and wine, so take advantage! Your private tour guide will talk you through the culinary specialties of Siena, and they can also tell you all the best spots for a delicious lunch of dinner. And since Montalcino and Chianti are right around the corner, Siena is perhaps the best place to find almost every style of Tuscan wine produced.

After your guide waves goodbye, indulge in wonderful local cuisine at one of the city's excellent restaurants, cafes, and wine bars.