Small Group · Siena
San Gimignano Morning Tour with Full Tuscan Lunch and Multiple Wine Tastings
Overview
This is a wonderful opportunity for those who want to experience one of the most beautiful towns in Tuscany followed by a full Tuscan lunch and wine experience.
In the morning, we will depart for the north west of Siena, where among the hills of the Val d'Elsa, stands the medieval town of San Gimignano. Defined as the town "with a hundred towers", owing to the presence of these impressive buildings symbolizing power and wealth. Until the thirteenth century the town counted seventy-two towers. Only fourteen of them are still standing today, though San Gimignano is often referred to the 'Manhattan of Tuscany'.
Following our arrival here, you will meet your guide who will introduce you to the incredible history of San Gimignano and the surrounding area. Among other things, you will learn about the incredible Via Francigena and the importance of its rise across Europe which was walked by thousands of pilgrims in the Middle Ages on their way to Rome. It was an invaluable trading route where the town of San Gimignano held an important position both in the productions of wine and local gastronomy, which is still holds an important place in Italian and Tuscan cuisine today.
Fine local wines and high quality foods create a potpourri of fragrances and tastes, that our expert guides will give you the opportunity to enjoy following our walking tour, where you will have the opportunity to enjoy the particular beauty of Santa Fina pottery, fine leather production and an assortment of hand crafts.
You will also have the opportunity to discover the history of the only Tuscan white wine recognized as D.O.C.G., the famous Vernaccia, that you will taste in one of the most renowned of the San Gimignano area, with a big selection of other typical wines and products.
Lunch will consist of fine Tuscan salami and roasted vegetables, pasta and lots of different Tuscan cuisine which will be accompanied by very fine wines.
Following lunch, enjoy the gardens around the winery, the vineyards and the fine company of our friends Pierluigi and his family who have been expert wine makers in this area for over a century!
For more information about the incredible Via Francigena and San Gimignano we recommend reading the BBC's article:
https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20181203-a-1000-year-old-road-lost-to-time
Duration
8 hours
Starting From
EUR 60
Per person for two travelers
Tailored to your departure and group.
North west of Siena, on the hills of Val d'Elsa, stands the medieval town of San Gimignano. Defined as the town "with a hundred towers", owing to the presence of these impressive buildings symbolising power and wealth, till the thirteenth century the town counted seventytwo towers, fourteen of them are still standing today. Due to the development of trade on the Via Francigena, crossed by thousands of pilgrims in the Middle Ages on their way to Rome, San Gimignano possesses interweave with the secrets of the local wine and gastronomy in a potpourri of fragrances and tastes, that our expert tour leaders will give you the opportunity of testing, in a unique tour.
- Tour Style
- Small Group
- Departs From
- Siena
Gallery
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Expert Multilingual escort
- Wine tasting
Traveler Reviews
Emily and David DavisonMy husband and I just took a two week trip to Italy that was planned for us by Eleanor Kinchin-Smith. It was a fantastic trip and we could not have been more thrilled. We worked together with Ele to let her know about our interests and our style of travel. She planned the perfect trip with excellent private guides at all of our sites, professional drivers and lovely hotels. We arrived in Italy with all of our train and ferry reservations made by Ele, with tickets in hand. She was in touch with us daily throughout our trip to make sure that things were going smoothly. She was able to make a few changes to our itinerary as needed. We look forward to working with Ele again on our next trip and have put her in touch with another family member to help plan their trip as well.
Ron and Deb CrosbyDear Guiseppe and Jesse,
We just returned from our most wonderful vacation to Italy and wanted to first thank you for putting together such a wonderful trip, and second to provide some feedback for the future.
Hotels
1. Hotel Sovestro in San Gimignano was wonderful. The staff were very friendly and helpful and made the first portion of our journey very stress free. They made us feel like we were part of their family. I would recommend it to anyone and would specifically ask for it if we were to make a return visit.
2. Hotel La Baia in Monterosso was nice and it's location was very good especially for us older folks humping luggage from/to the train station.
3. Hotel Lucchesi in Florence- what can I say expect FANTASTIC. The rooftop view at sunset is well worth it. Again very friendly and helpful staff. Would recommend it to everyone.
Wine Tour
Money well spent. We had a great time overall. The driver Mario was OUTSTANDING. He had lots of local knowledge as well as about winemaking. USE HIM AGAIN!!!
The various wineries we visited on tour:
Altesino- fantastic and they were not cheap on their pouring. Great experience.
Azienda Agricola Patrizia Cencion Sloaria- Again a great tour by one of the owner's daughters. We felt like we were the only thing on their mind although there were other customers there. A great way to complete the day.
Again we had a fantastic time and are very appreciative of everything you booked for us. We wish you continued success and if our travels should bring us back to Italy, we know who to call.
Leon and MicheleThe trip was great we appreciate all the hard work you and your team invested to make our experience a once in a lifetime trip. We appreciate all the attention to the details in particular Giuseppe spending the time and the focus with us on the road and as we were exploring your great country.
Bob & SandyJesse & Giuseppe,
Sandy and I have been looking through my slides of our trip to Southern Italy. We had such a good time with you and Giuseppe that we wanted to let you know again. You were the best guides ever.
Location
Italy Siena
Siena and beyond
8 hours through Italy, with every stop chosen by the people who live here.
Where it starts
Siena
This exclusive journey focuses on a singular region, offering deep immersion in local culture and traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a private tour, or will we join a group?
Private. You travel with your own guide and driver, and the only people on the itinerary are the ones you bring with you. Nothing is shared with strangers, and the pace of each day is yours to set.
Can the itinerary be changed to suit us?
Yes. What you see here is a starting point, not a fixed departure. Tell us how long you have, what you love and what you would rather skip, and we will reshape it around you. A slower morning, an extra night somewhere you fell for, a different region entirely.
How do we start planning?
Send us a note using the form on this page, or call us on 1-866-779-2565. A travel specialist replies within one business day, usually with a few questions of their own. There is no cost and no obligation in asking.
When should we book?
The earlier the better, particularly for travel between May and September, when the guides worth having are taken first. That said, we have put together beautiful trips at short notice, so ask and we will tell you honestly what is still possible for your dates.
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