Type: Culture, Free Time, Historic Monuments, Medieval Towns, Scenic Drive
Length: 8 - 9 hours (traffic pending)
Walking: Difficult - uneven surfaces
Mobility: NO wheelchairs
Guide: Driver Guide
Language: English

Livorno Shore Excursion - This option explores both Siena and San Gimignano. It is the most popular tour for people who want to see typical Tuscan towns but also avoid the hordes of tourists in Florence and Pisa.

After meeting your driver guide at the pier in Livorno your exploration begins with a drive through the lovely Tuscan countryside to the enchanting town of Siena. Your driver guide will talk to you about sites you will see today, but you have the freedom to choose what interests you the most.

Upon arrival, you have time to visit Siena's pedestrian zone on foot. Enjoy the small medieval streets lined with splendid palaces. Many visitors like to visit the Cathedral to see the striking exterior which is lined with black and white marble. You might choose to visit the interior which is rich in frescoes, several statues made by Michelangelo, a pulpit which depicts scenes from Jesus' life. Also important to note is the inlaid marble floor which is decorated with religious symbols and stories.

You have time to enjoy lunch (meal not included) and Siena is loaded with caf̩s and restaurants serving Tuscan cuisine.

End your visit at the Piazza del Campo, one of the most beautiful squares in the world. The shell shaped squared has been the center of Siena since the 1300s and it is still the hub of the city for both locals and tourist. On the square is the impressive Public Palace, where governors have lived for over 700 years. If you are up for a serious climb, you can ascend 400 steps to the top of the Mangia Tower for splendid views. This piazza is also the site of the world famous Palio race which is held every year. A rite of passage as a visitor is to lie on your back in the square and enjoy the city views and Tuscan sun.

Next your visit the Tuscan town of San Gimignano, a poster child for Tuscany and the epitome of a medieval Italian hilltop town. It gets the nickname "Medieval Manhattan" from its skyline of 14 medieval towers. By the 13th century the town had 72 towers and was home to many families whose fortunes grew from the fabric trade. The height of a family's tower was the sign of their wealth, and also served as a way to display their fabrics when unfurled from the top. In 1348 a plague devastated the town and ultimately lead to its decline and submission to Florence.

You visit the old town center on foot. There are several sites worth visiting but most people who are only here a short time just like to soak up the town's beauty and climb to the top of one of its towers for splendid views. There are also several places in town where you can sample local wines.

You may wish to visit the 13th century Palazzo del Popolo (The People's Palace) filled with coats of arms, frescoes by Sodoma and home of the Museo Civico featuring Century Florentine and Sienese art and decorative objects. Other favorites include the Duomo or Basilica of Santa Maria, consecrated in 1148, and frescoed with scenes depicting the Old and New Testament, and a noteworthy Last Judgment.

You may also choose to enjoy some shopping for local wares, including ceramics galleries and many quality leather shops.

At the end of the day, you return to the pier in Livorno.