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> Local Living Italy—Tuscany San Gimignano
Overview
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on G Adventures 7 Day Local Living Italy—Tuscany San Gimignano. If you’ve ever wanted to forge a deeper bond with a destination, this is your chance. Centred in San Gimignano, this Local Living adventure places you in the heart of central Tuscany. You’re free to explore the town, visit vineyards, discover medieval highlights, or embrace your inner artist wandering the Tuscan countryside. If you’re looking for a deeper dive into Italian cities, there’ll be day trips to visit Siena and Florence. You’ll share the main accommodation with like-minded travellers read more and a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) there to point you in the right direction. Prepare to fall in love with Italy.
Sold Out
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either the season has ended and new dates will be released soon, or the itinerary has been updated and isn’t operating this season.
Operator
G Adventures
Trip Style
Local Living
Budget
Affordable
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
8
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
EIGL
Itinerary
Arrive at any time.
Accommodation:
B&B Hotel Firenze City Center
Included Experiences
- Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Experiences
- Pantheon Visit: The Pantheon is one of the most famous buildings in Rome. Originally built during the reign of Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the building was rebuilt under Hadrian in 126 AD. The roof is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, and it contains a circular opening (an oculus). It is easily one of the best-preserved of all the ancient Roman buildings. (2-5 EUR per person)
- St Peter's Basilica Visit:
- Colosseum Visit: Enjoy a guided tour of this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Learn from your expert guide and you wander the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please!
- Borghese Gallery: Take a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.
- Christian Catacombs: Follow a guide through this ancient underground cemetary.
- Sistine Chapel : Although the Sistine Chapel is always very crowded, it is a must-see for any visitor to the Vatican. The magnificent frescoed ceiling of the chapel painted by Michelangelo depicts over 300 figures from the Book of Genesis, the most well-known being “The Creation of Adam,” showing God touching the finger of Adam. “The Last Judgment” on the west wall depicts a scene from the Book of Revelations. Art aficionados, get ready to cross one of your list! (20-25 EUR per person)
- Spanish Steps: Built to connect the hilltop Trinità dei Monti church with the Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Square) below, the Spanish Steps are a colourful example of Baroque architecture from 18th century Rome. Opt to climb its 136 steps, or simply watch the crowds weave through this popular tourist attraction.
- Trastevere Visit: Cross the Tiber river to reach the quaint medieval neighbourhood of Trastevere. This is a great opportunity to escape the crowds and get a glimpse into local life.
- Trevi Fountain: Built above an ancient water source, Trevi Fountain takes its name from the three streets (tre vie) that intersect at this world-famous fountain. Sculpted from travertine stone, the fountain as we know it today was completed in the 18th century. Work your way through the crowds to toss a coin in (with your right hand, over your left shoulder) for good luck - it's also your best chance to see the fountain's marvelous detail.
- Vatican Museum Visit: The Vatican Museums near St Peter's Basilica contain priceless works of art from ancient to modern times. There are many different museums to choose from, but two of the most well known are the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael rooms. (20-25 EUR per person)
Enjoy a morning orientation walk in Rome, then travel in the afternoon via train and bus to your home for the week. Take an orientation stroll with the CEO for a first glance at San Gimignano then sit down to a home cooked dinner with your Local Living host, Ugo. Transfer by train and bus to San Gimignano and walk to your home for the week, which is located just outside the beautiful medieval hill town of San Gimignano. The property owner, Ugo, is a San Gimignano native and is a fountain of information about the area. He lives in one of the apartments in his remodeled medieval house.
Accommodation:
Agriturismo Casa Florelia
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Orientation With CEO: Welcome to San Gimignano, your home base for the next week! Your CEO will take you on a brief walk around town, and give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs.
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Local Bus: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Home Cooked Dinner with Ugo: Enjoy a dinner prepared by your host, Ugo. Sit back, relax and take in the aromas and flavours of delicious Italian home-cooking.
Enjoy an included half-day cooking class this morning before setting out on an afternoon walk on top of the medieval city walls of San Gimignano for a new perspective on the town and sweeping views of the area.
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch
Included Experiences
- Half-day Cooking Class: Expand your culinary skills with a cooking class. Learn how to prepare typical Tuscan dishes and enjoy the fruits of your labour.
- Medieval City Wall Walk: Take a walk with your CEO around San Gimignano's medieval walls dating back to the 13th century and enjoy sweeping views both outside the walls and down little backstreets within the town. Walk all 2,176 metres or opt out partway.
Optional Experiences
- Wine Museum: Learn about the history of San Gimignano's famous wine, Vernaccia. Entrance is free, but you can opt to indulge in a sommelier-guided tasting and enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace.
- San Gimignano 1300 Museum: Catch a glimpse into the past with a visit to this gallery. Tour the hand-sculpted reconstruction of medieval street life scenes, representing a culmination of more than 20,000 man hours to complete.
- Collegiate Church of San Gimignano: Explore the frescos and towers of this beautiful medieval Roman Catholic collegiate.
- Torre Grossa: Climb up San Gimignano's highest tower, and enjoy the panoramic views over the town.
- Francigena Walk : Considered to be one of the most scenic routes in the region, the walk between San Gimignano to Montalcino is part of the Camino di Santiago pilgrimage route. Walk through a portion of this route and enjoy the rolling Tuscan hills.
Enjoy a day trip to Florence with plenty of free time to check out local museums and plazas. Opt to go out for a group dinner back in San Gimignano or cook together at the apartments.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Local Bus: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Train: Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Free Time: Get out and explore Florence's many museums and plazas.
Optional Experiences
- Medici Chapels Visit: Admire the opulence of the two Medici Chapels. The Sagrestia Nuova was designed by Michelangelo and built as a mausoleum for the powerful Medici family. (9-32 EUR per person)
- David (Galleria dell'Accademia) Visit: Visit Michelangelo's most famous statue, 'David'. Marvel at the artistry on display in the intricately carved piece of marble. Please note that pre-booking your admission online will be 26.50EUR and booking on site will be 22.50EUR. (22.50-26.50 EUR per person)
- Mercato Centrale (Mercato di San Lorenzo) Visit: Pick up a purse (or several!), leatherbound journals, Florentine paper, and any off-colour David statue souvenirs you wish.
- Ponte Vecchio Visit: Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.
- National Museum of Bargello: Explore this museum, housed in one of the earliest buildings in Florence (dating to 1255). Stroll through the corridors to learn about the history of this site and its many uses, and see the fantastic works from master artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo.
- Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art: Visiti the Pitti Palace and learn about history alongside modern art.
- Uffizi Gallery Visit: Head to the Uffizi Gallery to see spectacular Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci paintings in person.
- Il Duomo di Firenze Visit: This green, pink, and white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed. Wander through the cathedral or choose to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and be rewarded with extraordinary views of the city!
This morning, take a leisurely walk through the Tuscan countryside along the historical Via Francigena path to Montauto, where great views of San Gimignano from afar await. Then enjoy some free time to visit the San Gimignano market. In the evening, enjoy a tasting of some local wines. The Via Francigena, a historical path in use approximately 1,000 years ago by those making pilgrimage between Canterbury, England, and Rome, runs very close to the Local Living house. It is great path for those who wish to explore the Tuscan countryside by foot.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Tuscan Countryside Walk: Take the ancient Via Francigena path, which passes alongside our accommodation, and walk through some woods, across a stream, and then through vineyards up to Montauto, which offers outstanding views of San Gimignano. Head back down the hill and along a country road.
- Local Wine Tasting: What's a Tuscan holiday without sampling its renowned wines? Sample local wine varieties from a local vineyard before returning to the rustic farmhouse for the night.
Enjoy a day trip to Siena including an orientation walk with the CEO. Spend one final evening at the the agriturismo as you see fit with free time.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Siena Visit: Head to nearby Siena and wander this medieval walled city. Options abound! Visit the gorgeous Duomo and the Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio horse race is held each summer. Climb the Torre del Mangia for fantastic views of the Tuscan landscape.
- Orientation With CEO: Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Optional Experiences
- Torre del Mangia Visit: Torre del Mangia stands tall in the centre of the famous Piazza del Campo. Visit this medieval building and climb the tower for fantastic views over the Tuscan countryside.
- Il Campo Visit: Visit the Piazza del Campo, the main public square in the centre of Siena. One of the best examples of medieval European squares, the architecture of this area is striking. The Torre del Mangia is in the centre of the shell-shaped piazza and is worth climbing for the beautiful views it affords. Twice a year, the tiny square is transformed by the ancient Palio horse race.
- Duomo di Siena: The Duomo of Siena is one of the most stunning cathedrals in Italy. The green and white marble running around the sides is highlighted by red marble in front, and detailed carvings adorn the entire structure. Originally built between 1215 and 1263, this ancient edifice is a must see. (7-22 EUR per person)
Transfer by bus and train to Rome. Depart in the early afternoon from the Rome train station (Termini). Book flights for no earlier than 6 pm.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Local Bus: Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Local Train: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
- Departure Day: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
Optional Experiences
- Vatican Museum Visit: The Vatican Museums near St Peter's Basilica contain priceless works of art from ancient to modern times. There are many different museums to choose from, but two of the most well known are the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael rooms. (20-25 EUR per person)
- Roman Forum Visit: Even with the bustle of modern day Rome whizzing past on Vespas, you can still lose yourself in the fragmented columns and ancient ruins of this plaza, conjuring images of the rich Romans sauntering by in togas. Please note, this must be booked in combination with the Colosseum Visit and will include a visit to Palatine Hill.
- Borghese Gallery: Take a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.
- Christian Catacombs: Follow a guide through this ancient underground cemetary.
- St Peter's Basilica Visit:
- Colosseum Visit: Enjoy a guided tour of this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Learn from your expert guide and you wander the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please!
- Pantheon Visit: The Pantheon is one of the most famous buildings in Rome. Originally built during the reign of Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the building was rebuilt under Hadrian in 126 AD. The roof is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, and it contains a circular opening (an oculus). It is easily one of the best-preserved of all the ancient Roman buildings. (2-5 EUR per person)
- Sistine Chapel : Although the Sistine Chapel is always very crowded, it is a must-see for any visitor to the Vatican. The magnificent frescoed ceiling of the chapel painted by Michelangelo depicts over 300 figures from the Book of Genesis, the most well-known being “The Creation of Adam,” showing God touching the finger of Adam. “The Last Judgment” on the west wall depicts a scene from the Book of Revelations. Art aficionados, get ready to cross one of your list! (20-25 EUR per person)
- Spanish Steps: Built to connect the hilltop Trinità dei Monti church with the Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Square) below, the Spanish Steps are a colourful example of Baroque architecture from 18th century Rome. Opt to climb its 136 steps, or simply watch the crowds weave through this popular tourist attraction.
- Trastevere Visit: Cross the Tiber river to reach the quaint medieval neighbourhood of Trastevere. This is a great opportunity to escape the crowds and get a glimpse into local life.
- Trevi Fountain: Built above an ancient water source, Trevi Fountain takes its name from the three streets (tre vie) that intersect at this world-famous fountain. Sculpted from travertine stone, the fountain as we know it today was completed in the 18th century. Work your way through the crowds to toss a coin in (with your right hand, over your left shoulder) for good luck - it's also your best chance to see the fountain's marvelous detail.
Trip Inclusions
- Share an apartment in our local friend Ugo's home.
- Eat delicious Tuscan cuisine and sample regional wines.
- Stroll the lanes of medieval San Gimignano.
- Walk along the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
- Make new friends at your home away from home.
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Local Living Moment: Home Cooked Dinner with Ugo, San Gimignano
- Your Foodie Moment: Half-day Cooking Class, San Gimignano
- Your Local Living Moment: Local Wine Tasting, San Gimignano
- Orientation walks in Rome, San Gimignano, and Siena
- Walk along San Gimignano's medieval wall
- Quarter-day walk through the Tuscan countryside to Montauto
- Day trips to Siena and Florence
- Transport between destinations and included activities
- Local bus, train, walking
- CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout
- Hotel (1 Night), Apartments In A Locally Owned Home (5 Nights)
- Our home for the week is just outside the beautiful medieval hill town of San Gimignano. The property owner and San Gimignano native Ugo is a fountain of information about the area and lives in one of the apartments of his remodeled medieval house. We will stay in two apartments in his home. While you're here, relax on the private terrace and feel free to use fresh herbs and produce that are ripe from the garden. Located minutes from a supermarket and 600 meters to the town's medieval gate, the location is ideal as a base of exploration and relaxation.
- In Ugo's home, there are two bedrooms with a private bathroom, as well as two bedrooms with a shared bathroom.
- PLEASE NOTE: If you would like to share a room with your travelling companion, please make sure you book together. If you are unable to book at the same time as your travelling companion, please contact us directly as soon as possible so that we can check availability and, if possible, assign you to the correct room type.
- AIR CONDITIONING NOTE: Please be aware that the rooms at Agriturismo Casa Florelia do not have air conditioning.
- 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 1 dinner
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: Local Living
For travelers who want to go beyond the guidebooks, Local Living tours offer a deeper, slower way to explore. You will stay in one place for the week, often with a local host family, giving you the chance to truly settle in and see how life is lived every day. With most meals included and plenty of time for hands-on experiences like cooking or crafts, you will connect with culture in the most personal way.
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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