Siena & Tuscany Villages: Self-Guided Tour App
240
Overview
Siena and Beyond: Self-Guided Tour through Tuscany’s Villages invites travelers on an immersive exploration of Siena's historical heart and the picturesque Tuscan countryside. This self-guided walking tour, delivered through an interactive app, is ideal for independent travelers, history buffs, and anyone eager to discover the beauty of Tuscany at their own pace. Explore the iconic Piazza del Campo, marvel at the architectural grandeur of the Palazzo Pubblico, and climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views.
With this tour, travelers can wander through the Loggia della Mercanzia, delve into art history at the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, and experience the unique atmosphere of Piazza di Postierla (Quattro Cantoni). Discover hidden gems like Orto de' Pecci, admire the Duomo di Siena (Siena Cathedral), and explore the historic hospital of Santa Maria della Scala. Stroll along Via di Città and visit the Fortezza Medicea, gaining a deep appreciation for Siena's rich cultural heritage. The tour includes a user-friendly app with a digital map, guiding visitors through these key landmarks and hidden corners.
This app-based tour excludes ticket fees for Siena's attractions and doesn't include a physical on-site guide or private transportation. It offers the freedom to explore Siena's treasures independently, allowing for spontaneous wine tastings and museum visits, all while delving into the city's Gothic architecture, Renaissance masterpieces, and Palio traditions.




Highlights
Explore at Your Own Pace: Discover Siena and Tuscany's villages with the freedom of a self-guided tour.
Interactive App Experience: Use an easy-to-navigate app with audio guides and maps.
See Siena's Top Landmarks: Visit Piazza del Campo, Duomo di Siena, and more.
Uncover Hidden Gems: Explore charming streets and lesser-known spots in Tuscany.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally enjoyed the self-guided tour for its flexibility, informative content, and the ability to explore Siena and Tuscany's villages independently. A few minor technical issues were noted.

Customers loved the freedom to explore at their own pace.
Many found the app easy to use and full of interesting information.
Travelers appreciated the flexibility to stop and enjoy wine or museums.
The self-guided nature was perfect for independent explorers.
Some users wished for more detailed directions at certain points.
A few customers experienced minor technical glitches with the app.
The Journey
Piazza del Campo
Step into Piazza del Campo, Siena's breathtaking shell-shaped central square and a masterpiece of medieval urban design. Marvel at the Palazzo Pubblico, the city's town hall, and the towering Torre del Mangia, offering panoramic views after a climb of 400 steps. This historic piazza is the heart of Siena, famed for hosting the Palio horse race, a thrilling spectacle that embodies the city's vibrant traditions.
Palazzo Pubblico
Discover the Palazzo Pubblico, Siena's majestic town hall and a testament to Gothic architecture. Admire its elegant facade overlooking Piazza del Campo and explore the Civic Museum within, home to masterpieces of Sienese art. Don't miss the frescoes by Simone Martini and Ambrogio Lorenzetti, which offer invaluable insights into Siena's medieval history and artistic heritage.
Torre del Mangia
Ascend the Torre del Mangia, Siena's iconic tower, for unparalleled panoramic views of the city and the Tuscan countryside. Completed in 1348, this slender Gothic tower stands 87 meters tall. The name translates to 'Tower of the Eater', a reference to the tower's first bell-ringer, who was known for spending all his money on food. The challenging climb of 400 steps is rewarded with breathtaking vistas and a deeper connection to Siena's skyline.
Loggia della Mercanzia
Visit the Loggia della Mercanzia, an elegant open-air loggia located at the Croce del Travaglio, where Siena's three main streets converge. Built between 1417 and 1444, this structure seamlessly blends Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles, featuring graceful arches, ornate marble pillars, and sculptures of saints. Once the headquarters of Siena's powerful merchants' guild, it now stands as a symbol of the city's artistic and civic legacy.
Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Immerse yourself in the rich artistic heritage of Siena at the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo, showcasing masterpieces originally from Siena Cathedral. Marvel at Duccio di Buoninsegna's 'Maestà' altarpiece, a cornerstone of early 14th-century Italian painting. Admire Giovanni Pisano's stunning marble statues from the cathedral façade, and explore works by Donatello and Pietro Lorenzetti, all contributing to a profound understanding of Siena's artistic evolution.
Piazza di Postierla (Quattro Cantoni)
Explore Piazza di Postierla, also known as Quattro Cantoni (Four Corners), a historic square marking the intersection of four key streets in the Terzo di Città district. Once the site of a secondary gate in Siena's original city walls, the square features a 15th-century column topped with Siena's emblem: the she-wolf. Admire the surrounding noble palaces, including Palazzo Chigi alla Postierla and Palazzo Borghesi, which reflect the square's historical significance.
Orto de' Pecci
Escape the city bustle at Orto de' Pecci, a hidden green oasis located just a short walk from Piazza del Campo. This unique space combines a reconstructed medieval orchard with an organic garden, offering a peaceful retreat in the heart of Siena. Perfect for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking tranquility, this educational farm and relaxation spot provides a delightful contrast to the city's historic grandeur.
Duomo di Siena (Siena Cathedral)
Be awestruck by the Duomo di Siena, a magnificent cathedral showcasing Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture with its striking black and white marble facade. Step inside to witness the breathtaking mosaic floor, one of Italy's most ornate, depicting biblical scenes and allegories. Marvel at masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini, making the Duomo a treasure trove of Italian Renaissance art and a testament to Siena's artistic prowess.
Santa Maria della Scala
Discover Santa Maria della Scala, one of Europe's oldest hospitals transformed into a sprawling museum complex, located opposite Siena's cathedral. Founded to care for pilgrims, the poor, and abandoned children, it offers a captivating journey through centuries of history. Explore its labyrinthine halls, admire stunning frescoes, uncover archaeological treasures, and visit medieval chapels, gaining insight into Siena's compassionate past and artistic achievements.
Via di Città
Stroll along Via di Città, Siena's most elegant and historic street, connecting Piazza del Campo to Piazza del Duomo. Lined with medieval palaces and landmarks like Palazzo Chigi-Saracini and Loggia della Mercanzia, it's perfect for a leisurely walk. Indulge in shopping at local boutiques and immerse yourself in the city's authentic atmosphere, capturing the essence of Siena's charm and history.
Fortezza Medicea
Visit Fortezza Medicea, a 16th-century brick fortress located just outside Siena's old town. Explore its ramparts, offering wide walking paths and some of the best panoramic views of the city. Today, this fortress is a popular gathering spot for locals to relax, exercise, and enjoy open-air events, providing a tranquil escape with stunning vistas of Siena's skyline and surrounding landscape.
Know Before You Go
This self-guided walking tour uses an app and includes a digital map. It does not include ticket fees for attractions, private transportation, or an on-site physical guide. Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to and from the starting point.
Hot Tip
Download the app and maps before you go to save on data usage. Also, bring comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking!