Along the way that will lead us to Siena, the first emotion is the enchanting view of Monteriggioni from the panoramic windows of the bus: the amazing spectacle of a small medieval village enclosed by its famous walls, which remained standing to this day.
Upon arrival in Siena, we meet the local guide, at our disposal for two hours, who takes us ona comprehensive guided tour of the historic center, starting from the famous Basilica of San Domenico (inside visit), a jewel of Renaissance art built in the 13th century and dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena, of which preserves a relic.
We will walk along the narrow medieval streets of the city, flanked by splendid palaces and historic shops, until we reach the spectacular Cathedral of the 12th century, of which we can admire the magnificent architecture and the splendor of the polychrome marbles.
The tour continues then with the visit of the Museum and Oratory of a Contrada*(exclusive opening), where we can experience the atmosphere of the authentic and most intimate soul of the town.
The“Contrade”(districts into which the city is divided) are the real core of local social life, where inhabitants of each district compete with each other, as they devote themselves to the preparation of the famous Palio horse-race. The Museum of a ”Contrada”, as well as its Oratory, is therefore the heart of the district. It is an intimate and secret place containing historical documents and wonderful relics of the famous Palio, as well as magnificent works of art which are normally not disclosed to the public.
The guided tour of Siena ends in its most beautiful square, Piazza del Campo, of which the Palazzo Pubblico (Town Hall) is the focal point. Free time to continue exploring the city and for lunch (not included).
In the afternoon we reach San Gimignano, a small and world famous walled town located on a hilltop, which remained intact through the centuries, renowned for its tall towers, wonderful frescoes and many other valuable works of art: here we will be led until the heart of the historical center, where to have free time at disposal for its fascinating discovery.
In the evening, crossing the gently Chianti rolling hills, we will arrive to a small and typical Winery where, after a short walk in the ancient vineyards, we will visit the suggestive barrique room and taste 4 fantastic wines, sampling also locally produced zero food miles. Finally, we will stop in the picturesque village of Greve in Chianti, to admire its famous main square flanked by arcades and browse through the local artisan shops, to end a memorable experience in the heart of Tuscany.
* When the Museum and the Oratory of the Contrada are not accessible, will be replaced with the interior visit of the Cathedral or another site of particular historic and cultural interest.
