Excursion Volterra and san gimignano tour at Livorno

Indulge your senses with the splendid Medieval beauty, history and architecture of Tuscany during this full-day excursion to Volterra and San Gimignano.

Volterra

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 1.5-hour drive to Volterra, one of the most important historical Tuscan towns, first great Etruscan cities and Roman settlements. On the approach to Volterra, take in a stunning view of the town and its imposing fortress perched on an approximately 1,820-foot (about 555-metre) hill of yellow clay rocks.

Upon arrival in Volterra, take a guided walking tour through the streets of the town centre. Pass by the 4th-century A.D. Etruscan Arch, or 'Arco Etrusco', and the Duomo Cathedral, home of Guglielmo Pisano's The Last Supper and Fra Bartolomeo's The Annunciation. Additional sights to be seen include the Piazza dei Priori, a beautiful square dominated by the 13th-century Palazzo dei Priori, and the exterior of the Roman Theatre. Situated just outside the city walls, it is among the best-preserved ancient Roman theatres in Italy.

Following your walking tour Volterra's town centre, some free time is made available for lunch, shopping and independent exploration before re-boarding your coach for the drive to San Gimignano.

San Gimignano

The walled city of San Gimignano is renowned for its 14 Medieval towers, which once numbered in excess of 70 during the height of the Guelph-Ghibelline conflict. Despite the profusion of souvenir shops lining the main drag, San Gimignano is home to a wide array of spectacular Renaissance art. Upon arrival you will have some free time for shopping and independent exploration. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 1.5-hour drive back to the pier.

Note

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately 2.2 miles (about 3.5 kilometres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach, steep alleys and approximately 20 steps at the sites visited. Walking in Volterra and San Gimignano is at the discretion of each guest. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended.