Summary:
Embark on a thrilling journey back to the Medieval Times. Designed for Guests who have already experienced the highlights of Florence or who would prefer to experience something "off the beaten track," this private and exclusive tour through the scenic Tuscan Countryside focuses on two towns, San Gimignano and Volterra.  

                                                                                      Overview:
Waiting on your ship's pier at the time of your preference will be your professional, English speaking, driver - guide. Holding a sign with your group's name, your driver - guide will escort you to your private, clean, late - model, waiting vehicle. Sit back and relax in the comfort of your private vehicle as you travel the approximately 90 minutes through the Tuscan hill towns enroute to San Gimignano.

San Gimignano, a charming tiny city that has survived throughout the centuries. Know as "The Medieval Manhattan," because of its tall towers, today only 14 of the original 72 still stand. The town, because of its location, thrived during the Pilgrim route from Northern Europe to Rome. However, barbarians tried to destroy the town. If it were not for Bishop Gimignano, which the town is named for, the barbarians may have been successful. San Gimignano is also an artist community, known for its frescoes and other art treasures. As you stroll the cobblestone streets, be sure to visit the triangular Piazza Cisterna as well as Piazza del Duomo. It is in Piazza del Duomo where the impressive Romanesque Cathedral, Collegiata, known for its fine frescoes, stands. During your three hour exploration of the medieval town, take in the sites, squares, restaurants, and friendly citizens of San Gimignano.

Enroute to Volterra, take in the spectacular picturesque views of San Gimignano and the region. Volterra, is a hillside village approximately 20 minutes away from San Gimignono. Infact, until San Gimignano obtained its independence from the bishops of Volterra, the two towns were at once considered one. Dating back to the New Stone Age and Etruscan Civilization, become in awe of the palaces, churches, towers, and frescoes throughout the town. During your three hours exploration marvel at the Piazza dei Priori, considered one of Italy's most impressive squares, Piazza San Giovanni, site of the Duomo and Baptistery, and the ruins of an ancient Roman theater which dates back to the 1st Century B.C.

Unfortunately all good things must come to an end, including your thorough and complete trip of San Gimignano, Volterra, and Tuscany. As you are driven back to your ship, The Guest Planners Team hopes your tour was filled with amazement and memories that will last a lifetime. When you arrive at your cruiseship, although the tour may have come to an end, you will always be a part of The Guest Planners Family. 

Our driver - guides have extensive knowledge and expertise of the history, customs, and culture of San Gimignano, Volterra, and Tuscany, in addition to the layout of the streets. Unlike the restrictions for large coach buses, your driver - guide will do his or her best to drive you in your private vehicle to as close to the site as allowed by law. Additionally, if you have any specific requests or you would prefer to focus your tour on a specific area of San Gimigano, Volterra, or Tuscany, your driver - guide will do his or her best to accomodate your needs. 

                                                                        Customize Your Tour:
You may choose to tour the city with your private, licensed, english speaking tour guide or you may choose to tour based on the information provided by your driver - guide. Highlights of this tour include:
3 hours in San Gimignano
3 hours in Volterra

                                                                                       Notes:
The tour can be customized to your preference. The order of the tour may be modified to maximize your time and enjoyment. While we will make every attempt to include all parts of the tour as listed above, there is the slight possibility that for reasons beyond our control,  an aspect of the tour will need to be skipped, replaced, or modified. While we suggest wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing, please respect local customs of covering shoulders and knees when visiting a religious site. For your protection and convenience, payment must be made through credit card on The Guest Planners secure payment processing system. We will be happy to accept multiple credit cards for your group. During the tour, we suggest leaving valuables in your onboard safe and only carrying a minimal amount of cash. Our extremely competitive pricing is below. If you have any further questions or if The Guest Planners Team can be of any assistance, including making a reservation, or customizing a tour for your group, please call (305) 933 - 4888 or E-mail Reservations@TheGuestPlanners.com. We look forward to you joining our "Family." Thank you!