Florence Day Tour: Explore Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano with Lunch

Key Points

• Visit four iconic Tuscan towns: Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano, and a Chianti winery
• Includes a traditional Tuscan lunch with wine tasting and scenic countryside views
• Flexible exploration: free time at Pisa, San Gimignano, and Siena for personalized discovery
• Guided Siena tour and optional interior visit to Siena Cathedral available
• Transport by comfortable GT coach ensures smooth travel across regions
• Cost of $67.99 per person, with most bookings made 87 days in advance

Tour Overview: A Day in Tuscany Starting from Florence

This 13-hour tour departs from Villa Costanza in Florence at 7:40 am and offers a comprehensive excursion through some of Tuscany’s most famous sights. With two options available, travelers can choose a straightforward experience with self-guided explorations or opt for a more guided approach, including a detailed Siena tour and interior visits.

The tour is priced at $67.99 per person, making it an accessible way to see Pisa’s leaning tower, explore San Gimignano’s medieval skyline, and enjoy a traditional Tuscan meal paired with wine. While the tour typically receives a 4.0/5 rating from six reviews, some feedback highlights logistical issues, so expect a busy, full-day schedule with plenty of sights.

Starting Point: Villa Costanza in Florence

The adventure kicks off early from Villa Costanza, a convenient meeting point accessible by public transport. The tour begins at 7:40 am, ensuring plenty of time to experience the day’s highlights. The round-trip transportation is provided by a comfortable GT coach, designed to keep travelers relaxed during the long day.

The tour’s group size is capped at 39 travelers, offering a balance between social atmosphere and personal space. Most travelers find the meeting logistics straightforward, with easy access near public transportation options.

Exploring Pisa and the Piazza dei Miracoli

The first major stop is Pisa, famously home to its Leaning Tower. Visitors have approximately 40 minutes to take in the Piazza dei Miracoli, where the baptistery and cathedral also stand out as architectural marvels. While entry to these sites is not included, the outside views allow for classic photos of the Leaning Tower from various angles.

The tour offers leisure time for about an hour, giving space for photos, wandering, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this historic square. The outside sightseeing allows everyone to appreciate the iconic tilt of the Leaning Tower without the need for long lines or interior tickets.

A Tuscan Lunch and Wine Tasting at a Chianti Estate

The journey continues into the heart of Chianti, where the tour includes a 3-hour visit to a rural estate of ancient origin. Here, visitors tour the estate, including a medieval chapel, and enjoy wine tastings in a panoramic terrace setting overlooking the countryside.

A traditional Tuscan lunch is served on-site, featuring local products, along with reserve wine and a designation of origin wine. This stop blends scenic views with authentic regional flavors, with some snacks served alongside the first Chianti Classico tasting in large barrels. The lunch and tastings are included in the tour price, providing good value and a taste of Tuscany’s wine heritage.

Discovering San Gimignano’s Medieval Skyline

After the estate visit, the tour moves to San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its medieval towers and well-preserved walls. Travelers have about 1 hour to explore this charming hill town, with options for photo opportunities at the Piazza della Cisterna and walking through its narrow streets.

The Duomo di San Gimignano offers a 12th-century church with frescoes by Ghirlandaio in its Santa Fina Chapel. While admission to the cathedral is free, visitors should be prepared for a brief visit if they choose to go inside. The town’s picturesque skyline remains a highlight, especially from the stone Torre Grossa.

Siena’s Medieval Charm and Optional Interior Tour

Next, the tour arrives in Siena, with about 2 hours to experience its medieval brick buildings and iconic Piazza del Campo. The central square hosts the Gothic town hall, Palazzo Pubblico, and the Torre del Mangia, offering sweeping views from its white-crowned tower.

A guided walking tour of Siena is included, with the option to upgrade for a guided interior visit of the Siena Cathedral, including the Santa Fina Chapel with its famous frescoes. The guided tour is conducted in English and lasts around 30 minutes, providing insights into the city’s history and architecture.

Visitors have around 2 hours and 45 minutes to stroll through Siena’s streets, enjoy local shops, or relax before heading to the next stop. The relaxed pace allows for personal exploration amid the city’s medieval ambiance.

Final Stop: San Gimignano for Relaxation and Shopping

The tour concludes with 1.5 hours in San Gimignano, offering another chance for photos, shopping, and leisurely walks through the historic streets. This stop provides a last look at the medieval towers and the chance to pick up local artisan goods or souvenirs.

Travelers can enjoy the town’s authentic atmosphere, with plenty of small shops and cafes. After this, the coach heads back to Villa Costanza for drop-off, completing the approximately 13-hour journey.

Transport and Logistics: Comfort and Accessibility

Throughout the day, comfortable GT coach transportation ensures smooth travel between destinations. The tour is designed for ease of movement, with most attractions accessible for those able to handle some walking and stairs. However, it is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

The meeting point at Villa Costanza is near public transit, and the tour advises purchasing tram tickets at the nearby machine if using public transport. The group size of up to 39 helps maintain a manageable pace and personal attention from guides.

Optional Guided Siena Cathedral Tour and Pricing

Travelers can choose an upgraded option that includes a guided tour of Siena Cathedral and interior visits. The full option also covers a guided exploration of Siena and a more detailed inside tour of the cathedral, offering a deeper look at this historic site.

The base price of $67.99 covers most activities, with extra fees applying if the guided Siena Cathedral tour is selected. The options cater to those wanting a richer experience or a more relaxed, self-guided style.

Practical Considerations and Booking Tips

Most bookings are made about 87 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour is best suited for those comfortable with long days, walking, and some stairs. Small animals are not allowed, and special event timings may affect opening hours at stops.

Cancellation policies are flexible, with free cancellations up to 24 hours before the tour start, allowing for flexible planning. However, some reports highlight logistical issues like bus breakdowns, so it’s wise to be prepared for potential delays.

Florence Day Tour: Is It Worth It?

This tour offers a cost-effective way to see four major Tuscan sights in a single day, with a mix of guided and free exploration. The inclusion of lunch and wine tastings adds authentic regional flavor, and the scenic drive between towns offers beautiful views.

However, the long duration combined with potential logistical issues—such as the reported bus breakdown—means travelers should weigh convenience against the desire to visit multiple locations in one day. It’s ideal for those who want a structured itinerary with some flexibility and enjoy tasting local wines and foods.

Final Thoughts on the Tuscany Day Trip

The Florence-based day tour to Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano provides a rundown of Tuscany’s historic towns, countryside, and culinary delights. Guided elements enhance the experience, especially with the option for interior visits at Siena Cathedral.

While the overall value is good, especially with included meals and tastings, travelers should be aware of potential logistical hiccups. This tour suits those eager to maximize their day with minimal planning, particularly if they appreciate scenic drives, local food, and wine.

In summary, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of Tuscany with the convenience of transportation and some guided insights, making it a solid choice for a day trip from Florence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation by GT coach is provided for the entire day.

Can I visit the inside of Siena Cathedral?
This is optional. The full option tour includes a guided interior visit of Siena Cathedral, available in English.

What should I wear for this tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as there is some walking and stairs involved at various stops.

Is lunch vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, the traditional Tuscan lunch offers vegetarian options upon request.

Are there any age restrictions or mobility limitations?
The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments and involves some walking and stairs, so consider this before booking.