Siena - Private Historic Walking Tour

Siena’s history is a captivating tale waiting to be unraveled. On this private walking tour, visitors can enjoy the city’s awe-inspiring architecture, from the fortress-like Salimbeni Palace to the breathtaking Gothic grandeur of the Siena Cathedral. Along the way, they’ll discover the serene Sanctuary House of Saint Catherine and marvel at the beauty of Camp Square, one of Europe’s most celebrated medieval squares. With personalized insights and the chance to explore Siena’s iconic landmarks, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through time.

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About Your Stay

This private 2-hour historic walking tour in Siena showcases the city’s medieval architecture, including the oldest bank, Sanctuary House of Saint Catherine, and Camp Square.
Visitors can explore the fortress-like Salimbeni Palace, which reflects Siena’s turbulent past and the influence of the Salimbeni family.
The tour features the birthplace and childhood home of the significant Roman Catholic figure, Saint Catherine, providing insights into Siena’s religious heritage.
Camp Square, one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares, offers breathtaking views from the Tower of Eater and showcases Siena’s cultural heritage.
The tour is available in English and Italian and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The private Historic Walking Tour in Siena offers an immersive experience, providing visitors with a 2-hour exploration of the city’s rich history and architectural wonders.

Priced at £336.34 per group (up to 20 participants), the tour is available in English and Italian. Guests can reserve now and pay later, with a free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance.

The highlights include visiting the oldest bank in the world, the Sanctuary House of Saint Catherine, the magnificent Siena Cathedral, and the captivating Camp Square, one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares.

Fascinated by the past? Here are other historical experiences we've covered in Siena

Highlights of the Tour

Visitors on the private Historic Walking Tour in Siena can look forward to an array of captivating highlights.

The tour takes guests to the oldest bank in the world, Salimbeni Palace, offering a glimpse into Siena’s turbulent past.

Next, they’ll explore the serene Sanctuary House of Saint Catherine, the birthplace of a significant Catholic figure.

The tour also features:

Marveling at the Gothic architectural masterpiece, Siena Cathedral
Discovering Camp Square, one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares
Enjoying views from the iconic Tower of Eater in the square

Salimbeni Palace: A Fortress-Like Structure

As a fortress-like structure reflecting Siena’s turbulent past, Salimbeni Palace dates back to the 14th century. This medieval building once served as a stronghold for the powerful Salimbeni family, who played a significant role in Siena’s political and economic affairs. The palace’s architecture, with its thick walls and imposing appearance, symbolizes the city’s tumultuous history and the fierce rivalries that shaped its development. Visitors can marvel at the palace’s architectural details and imagine the intrigues and power struggles that once unfolded within its walls.

| Architectural Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Fortress-like Structure | Thick walls and imposing appearance |

| 14th-Century Origin | Reflects Siena’s turbulent past |

| Salimbeni Family Stronghold | Powerful family’s influence in the city |

Sanctuary House of Saint Catherine: A Significant Site

Birthplace of a significant figure in Roman Catholic history, the Sanctuary House of Saint Catherine offers visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of this revered saint.

Highlights include:

Exploring the birthplace and childhood home of Saint Catherine, known for her mystical experiences and contributions to the Church.
Admiring the serene atmosphere and carefully preserved interiors that transport visitors back in time.
Learning about Saint Catherine’s impact on Siena’s religious and political landscape during the 14th century.

The Sanctuary House provides a unique opportunity to connect with Siena’s rich religious heritage and the story of one of its most influential figures.

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Fontebranda: Siena’s Oldest and Largest Fountain

Fontebranda, Siena’s oldest and largest fountain, showcases the city’s advanced 11th-century hydraulic engineering. This impressive structure features three cascading arches that once supplied water to the local community. The fountain’s strategic location near the Sanctuary House of Saint Catherine made it an important gathering place.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Construction | 11th century |

| Size | Largest in Siena |

| Purpose | Community water supply |

| Significance | Vital resource, meeting place |

Fontebranda’s enduring presence highlights Siena’s commitment to preserving its rich historical legacy and infrastructure. Visitors can marvel at this captivating example of medieval engineering and its continued role in the life of the city.

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Loggia of Merchandise: The Main Trading Venue

The Loggia of Merchandise was the main trading venue of medieval Siena, featuring exquisite frescoes and carved columns that showcased the city’s commercial prowess.

The medieval Loggia of Merchandise in Siena showcased the city’s thriving commercial prowess through its exquisite frescoes and carved columns.

This architectural gem:

Hosted merchants and artisans from across Europe who came to buy and sell their wares.
Displayed intricate carvings depicting allegorical figures and heraldic symbols, reflecting Siena’s wealth and status.
Served as a hub for economic and cultural exchange, solidifying the city’s reputation as a thriving commercial center during the Middle Ages.

Camp Square: Europe’s Greatest Medieval Square

Renowned for its historical monuments, Camp Square is one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. Divided into 9 sections, the square’s unique shell-like shape points to the nearby Public Palace, the seat of the City Council. The square features the iconic Tower of Eater, the Square Chapel, and the Joyous Fountain, each with its own captivating history. Visitors can explore the Civic Museum and enjoy breathtaking views from the Tower of Eater. The square’s meticulous design and preserved architectural elements showcase Siena’s rich cultural heritage and make it a must-see destination on the historic walking tour.

| Monument | Features |

| — | — |

| Tower of Eater | Iconic landmark offering panoramic views |

| Square Chapel | Exquisite religious architecture |

| Joyous Fountain | Ornate 14th-century fountain |

Tour Inclusions and Meeting Point

The Siena Historic Walking Tour includes an official tour guide and covers any applicable entrance fees. The tour meeting point is at Fonte Nuova DOvile, where the tour guide will be waiting with a signboard. This allows participants to easily identify the starting point.

The tour offers several key features:

Official Tour Guide to provide historical insights and context
Applicable Entrance Fees are included, ensuring a seamless experience
Convenient Meeting Point at Fonte Nuova DOvile, with a tour guide holding a signboard

This comprehensive package allows visitors to fully enjoy the rich history and architecture of Siena during the 2-hour private walking tour.

Questions About Your Stay

Can We Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit Our Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit your interests. The tour company offers flexibility to focus on specific sites or themes that are most appealing to you within the allotted 2-hour duration.

Will the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Local Restaurants?

The tour guide can provide recommendations for local restaurants that showcase Siena’s traditional cuisine and culinary heritage. These personalized suggestions can enhance the overall experience of the private historic walking tour.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration if Required?

It’s possible to extend the tour duration if required, but participants would need to discuss this with the tour guide and pay any additional fees. The standard tour length is 2 hours.

Can We Make Stops for Shopping or Local Cuisine During the Tour?

The tour focuses on historical sites and insights. While it doesn’t include scheduled stops for shopping or dining, the guide can provide recommendations for local cuisine and shops during the tour if requested.

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour for a Smaller Group Size?

Yes, there is an option to book a private tour for a smaller group size. The tour can accommodate up to 20 participants, so you can opt for a private experience with a smaller group.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This private historic walking tour of Siena offers an immersive experience, exploring the city’s iconic landmarks and rich heritage. From the oldest bank in the world to the breathtaking Gothic architecture of the Siena Cathedral, participants can explore Siena’s serene sanctuaries and marvel at its celebrated medieval squares. With personalized insights in English or Italian, this tour provides an in-depth look at the captivating history and beauty of this remarkable Italian city.

You can check availability for your dates here: