2 hours
4 languages
Instant confirmation
Private tour

Highlights

Discover the enchanting Old Town of the walled city of Volterra high up in the mountains of Tuscany, which is steeped in the long and eventful history dating from before the Roman times, and its numerous landmarks of historical and archaeological significance, such as the mysterious Etruscan Acropolis and Etruscan Gate dating to as early as the 8th century BC, the rich heritage of Roman civilization including Roman Cistern, Roman Theatre, and Roman Bath, the 14th-century Medici Fortress now serving as a prison, as well as the Palace of the Priors and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta next to it, the respective representatives of the heated conflict between the Florentine government and the bishop during medieval times.

Inclusions

What's included

Private guided tour

What's not

Gratuities and refreshments

Itinerary

The tour starts at the foot of the imposing Medici Fortress, the symbol of Volterra’s heavy past. The 14th-century medieval bastion perching on Volterra’s highest hill was used to oppress the rebels of its people against the invasion of Florence. From this perfect viewpoint, you can enjoy a fabulous vista sweeping across the Old Town.
25 min
Continue to back forward to the earliest times in Volterra’s history at the Etruscan Acropolis, built on the highest point by Etruscans to best read the signs in the sky. The remains of 7th-century-BC temples offer a precious glimpse into the indigenous Etruscan population.
20 min
Right next to the site is the Roman Cistern, the heritage of the second civilization inhabiting the city six centuries later. One fun fact is that it was the setting of the award-winning movie “Sandra - of a Thousand Delights” in 1965.
20 min
Proceed to pass by the remains of the Roman Theater, located outside the city walls next to the 13th-century Florentine Gate. The weathered auditorium built on the slopy terrain to take advantage of the natural incline is thought to accommodate 3,500 spectaculars until the end of the 3rd century B.C when it was replaced by thermal baths whose beautiful floors still can be seen.
Passes by
The next destination is Priori Square. The heart of Volterra surrounded by its most beautiful historic monuments was chosen as a setting for the world-famous “New Moon” movie in 2009. The vibrant square with its bustling arcade cafes, gelato restaurants, and colorful traditional performances is the best spot in Volterra for people-watching and soaking up vibes.
15 min
The highlight of the square is the Palace of the Priors or Volterra Town Hall, the oldest municipal building in Tuscany. The 13th-century palace boasting Florence’s coats of arms was built to demonstrate the supremacy of the Florentine government over the power of the bishop, represented by the Cathedral located right behind.
15 min
Continue to pass by the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The present cathedral replaced the original one destroyed by the Florentines during a siege in 1472, triggering their constant conflict. Check out the solemn bas-reliefs depicting the bishop on its eternal wall, testifying their influence in the city, and the tranquil 13th-century Baptistery of San Giovanni Battista right opposite the church.
Passes by
Finally, visit Etruscan Gate just a stone’s throw away, the most famous entrance of the old city walls built and expanded by many generations. Dating to the 3rd century BC, the three head-shaped statues on its arch have been a long-lasting mystery attracting curious visitors and archaeologists.
25 min

Cancellation

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Know before you go

Meeting point: In front of the City Hall at Piazza dei Priori, your tour guide shall be waiting with a Signboard.
Pickup: Everyone meets at the starting point; there is no pickup.
Ticket type: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Operated by: BlackBuck Travels

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

How it compares in Florence

Its from-price is 135% above the median of the 3255 experiences we list in Florence.
It is shorter than most of them.

About Florence

Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, gathers masterpieces of art and architecture into a compact city of stone streets beside the Arno.

The Duomo, with Brunelleschi's great red-brick dome, Giotto's bell tower and the Baptistery's gilded doors, marks the centre of town. A few streets away, Piazza della Signoria and the Palazzo Vecchio face a loggia full of sculpture, and the Uffizi Gallery holds Botticelli, Leonardo and Raphael. Michelangelo's David stands in the Galleria dell'Accademia.

Top-ranked sights in Florence: Piazza della Signoria, Uffizi Galleries (Gallerie degli Uffizi), Florence Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore).

See all 3255 experiences in Florence