C I T Y
SIENA
The Ideal City, as dreamed and realized by Pope Pius II (Enea Silvio Piccolomini) in the XVI Century, like a Renaissance image of beauty and perfection, the result of the harmonic mix between nature and human architecture. Come visit with a pleasant walk Pieve di Corsignano, the old Romanesque church where the Pope has been baptized, the village, World Unesco Heritage, with its palaces and the majestic Cathedral, co-designed by Pius II himself and the Florentine architect Bernardo Rossellino. You will discover a stunning panorama over Valdorcia and Mount Amiata where men and nature still coexist in harmony and beauty. This location is perfect to produce a tasty cheese, using only sheep milk: never heard about Pecorino? Absolutely you have to, so let’s go and taste it!
PIENZA
SAN GIMIGNANO
Siena is a wonderful city, and you will discover how rich and full of art. The Cathedral, Palazzo Pubblico, Piazza del Campo, the beautiful churches, the old Hospital and a lot of amazing museums would introduce you to a centuries-long history that you can still touch with your own hands. But be careful, it's not a museum.
So you can have a walking tour touching the must-to-do sites and buildings, OR you can have this PLUS an exciting journey inside the real life of the Sienese people. I'm obviously talking about our food (our typical cakes are so delicious!), and most of all about the Palio, the horse race that enlights our hearts and lifes since XVII Century. That’s why we will visit a Contrada Museum - one of the 17 districts that fight for victory twice a year - and you will feel as a local!
Imagine a school test, they’re asking you a link between Middle Ages and Manhattan: if nothing pops in your mind, you have to come to San Gimignano. I will explain you why these amazing tower houses have been built, and most of all why they are still here, 14 giants like survived guardians over the city, ruins - but what a ruin! - of a past that was so prestigious and wealthy, as the several pieces of art can testify. Another treasure comes from Middle Ages, something that costs like gold, and it’s golden as well: saffron! We can learn everything about it, and if you’re interested, we can also visit a local farm which produces this expensive and delicate spice. Come with me!
REVIEW
Exceptional tour - Customized and Engaging!
We loved our time with Giulia! She took us a wonderful walking tour which included backstage access to two wonderful museums. Her knowledge of Siena and the Palio are extensive, but what we loved even more was her enthusiasm and love for her beautiful city! In our two week time in Italy, all of us agreed that our time with Giulia was the highlight! I highly recommend her.
Genelle Brakefield 7/2/2024
Walking Tour Wednesday October 11, 2023....with Giulia !!!
Giulia was the consummate tour guide: * Tailored the walking tour to our small, family group's (8) interests ( one of the 8 is an architect). * Presented relevant ( and insightful) information without being overbearing with PhD level of detail ( as some Guides like to show-off). * Warm personality and engaged individually with those in our group. * Booking the tour was super easy! * Would absolutely ( and plan on it) book again on next visit. * Without a question - would highly recommend Giulia to friends and family! * Keep up the great work! Ciao, Ray Del Savio ( Architect)
RAY DEL SAVIO 10/19/2023
Un moment inoubliable
Tout a été parfait. La réservation, et la prise de contact avec Giulia, les explications avant notre rendez-vous et les différentes possibilités offertes. Notre rencontre c'est très bien passée et la demi-journée a été magique. Nous avons tout apprécié, Giulia a admirablement bien décrit sa ville et sa passion, et nous a fait partager la vie de sa "Contrade" lors du Palio. Je recommande les yeux fermés. Vraiment encore merci à Giulia.
jean-François HUGUET 8/23/2023