Siena and Duomo city tour

The meeting point with the english speaking tour guide is in front of the church of San Domenico in Siena at 10:30 am, easy to find even if you are arriving from out of town with your own car, as there is a parking nearby. 

The tour begins with the visit of the magnificent Basilica of San Domenico, to admire its architecture and art, as well as the important relic of the patron Saint of Italy and Europe: Saint Catherine, born in Siena.

We'll continue along Siena’s medieval streets with the history of the most important historical buildings. One of these is the beautiful Rocca Salimbeni, house of the most ancient bank in the world - the Monte dei Paschi bank - as well as impressive collection of archives and works of art. While walking along the main street you'll discover the via Francigena, the main pilgrims route connecting the north of Europe to Rome. See Palazzo Tolomei, one the oldest private palaces in Siena and Palazzo Chigi Saracini, currently seat of the prestigious Accademia Musicale Chigiana, founded in 1923. 

Admire Piazza del Campo, built in the shape of a shell, with the impressive Palazzo Comunale or Town Hall with its bell tower, the Torre del Mangia. This is the square that hosts one of the most famous medieval tournaments, the Palio horse race, held twice a year by the city's Contrada neighborhoods and, to this day, the heart and soul of this magnificent medieval city. 

The tour ends with a guided visit to the cathedral with its impressive masterpieces by Donatello, Bernini and Michelangelo. Admire the exquisite gothic architecture, the ancient pulpit and visit the chapels. Walk below the naves and marvel at the Renaissance busts of popes and the intricate marble decorations and stained-glass windows.