Day 01
Walking Through Siena's Historic Heart and Cathedral
Discover the treasures of one of the most beautiful cities in the world with a local guide and immerse yourself in its art, culture, and traditions. Explore the best that Siena has to offer by walking through the ancient streets of the city.
- Start in the heart of the city, Piazza del Campo, the Sienese political nerve centre, where you will learn about the history of the majestic Palazzo Pubblico, today the city hall and seat of the Civic Museum. In this square, you will discover the Palio tradition, the horse race that has taken place twice a year since the Middle Ages. Here, you will also admire Fonte Gaia and discover the history of the mysterious "Bottini", an underground medieval aqueduct excavated in the sandstone. You will hear funny anecdotes about the spasmodic search by the Sienese for the much-sought river called 'Diana'.
- Afterwards, walk through the ancient street of Banchi di Sopra, a small part of the ancient Via Francigena, the pilgrim's road that starts in Northern Europe and finishes in Rome. Along this street, the guide will tell you about important Sienese families and show you their palaces: Palazzo Tolomei, one of the oldest private buildings in the city, and Palazzo Salimbeni, the seat of the oldest public bank in Europe.
- Continue towards the Basilica of San Domenico, which houses the relics of Saint Catherine of Siena, and discover the Sanctuary of St. Catherine, where she used to live with her family.
- Afterwards, pass by the Baptistery and the stunning Siena Cathedral. You will also visit the inside, where you will admire the artworks of important Italian artists such as Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini. The Cathedral ticket is not included.
