See the best that Florence and San Gimignano have to offer with your private guide and private transportation!
This excursion is for 9 or more participants. For smaller groups, please see our
Livorno Florence and San Gimignano Excursion.
You will take the free shuttle from your Livorno cruise pier to the transportation hub near the harbor's main gate. There you will meet your English speaking escort along with your driver then set out in your air-conditioned transport for the approximately 2-hour journey to Florence. A stop will be made after approximately one hour.
On arrival to Florence's historic area, you will meet your English-speaking guide who will take you on a walking excursion. View the must-see sites in this predominantly pedestrian only area. There is so much to see - the Gothic architecture of Piazza del Duomo with its Cupola, a powerful symbol for both the city and its tradition. See the exterior of the Baptistery and its impressive handmade doors.
Stroll Florence's political heart, the Piazza della Signoria and see the Palazzo della Signoria. This monument was designed in 1298 for the seat of the Republican government.
Nearby is the oldest bridge in Florence, the very unique, Ponte Vecchio. The bridge offers great architectural views and interesting photo opportunities.
There will be free time after the guided visit so that you may sample some Florentine cuisine and Tuscan wine, shop or browse. Your guide will be able to offer suggestions on where to eat. Food beverage and any admissions to sites during free time are at the guest's expense. Approximate time in the historic district is 3 hours 30 minutes.
Next, you will set out on the approximately 60-minute drive to San Gimignano. This unique walled city has been inhabited since the 3rd century BC. Starting back in the 1200's, family feuds began among neighbors and tower houses began to be built. In an attempt to have the flashiest, the families continued to build and add on until there were more than 70 homes towering over the town with the tallest being 230 feet tall. The entire Historic Center was added to UNESCO World Heritage List in 1990.
Your guide will lead you on a walking excursion to explore the Piazza della Cisterna, the main square of the town with an ornate well. The frescos of Collegiate Church located in Piazza Duomo, were saved from the Nazis and featured in the 1999 film "Tea with Mussolini." You can also see the Palazzo Communale and the mayor's Palazzo Podesta. The approximate time spent in the historic district is 75 minutes.
Your guide will stay behind in San Gimignano. Your escort will lead you to your transportation for the 90-minute drive back to the cruise pier.
Please note that you should anticipate large crowds at all sites. When possible, a guide from Livorno will be used replacing the need for the escort.
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