From the Golden Age to the Glory of Siena’s Present Traditions

Siena rises majestically from three hilltops, its medieval skyline dominated by Gothic spires and the iconic shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. On this intimate walking tour, you'll discover the heart and soul of one of Italy's most beautifully preserved medieval cities, where ancient traditions still thrive in the modern day. From the world's oldest operating bank to the birthplace of Italy's patron saint, you'll uncover the stories and secrets that have shaped Siena's unique character through the centuries.

The tour begins at Dolce Siena, a traditional deli shop next to the imposing Town Hall with its soaring tower. You'll explore the magnificent Piazza del Campo, the amphitheater-shaped square where the famous Palio horse race has been run since the 1200s. As you weave through narrow medieval streets, you'll discover local coffee rituals, admire the imposing Tolomei Palace dating back to the 13th century, and learn how this city once flourished as a banking center for pilgrims and merchants traveling to Rome.

You'll visit San Domenico Basilica, where the head of St. Catherine of Siena—Italy's patron saint—is preserved as a relic, before exploring her nearby birthplace and sanctuary. Along the way, you'll discover how Siena's seventeen districts (contrade) maintain fierce rivalries that culminate in the spectacular Palio races. The tour ends at Siena's magnificent Duomo, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture where different artistic styles blend harmoniously across centuries of construction.

On this 75-minute tour, you'll:

• Admire the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, where the thrilling bareback Palio horse race has been held for over 800 years
• Learn about Siena's unique contrada system and how these seventeen districts maintain ancient rivalries and traditions
• Visit San Domenico Basilica with its Renaissance chapel dedicated to St. Catherine, one of Italy's patron saints
• Explore Santa Caterina Sanctuary, built around the birthplace of this remarkable medieval woman
• Discover the story behind Monte dei Paschi, Italy's oldest operating bank established in 1472
• Sample or learn about local specialties like panforte and ricciarelli at historic pastry shops
• See Siena University, established in 1241 and among Italy's oldest centers of learning
• Gaze upon the magnificent marble facade of Siena's Duomo, one of Italy's most spectacular Gothic cathedrals

This enchanting walk through Siena's timeless streets offers the perfect introduction to a city where medieval traditions remain vibrantly alive in the modern day. Bring comfortable walking shoes—Siena's hills can be challenging, but the stunning views are worth every step.