Siena, Italy: A Spirited Journey Through Medieval Delights
Experience the charm and beauty of Siena, Italy's timeless jewel.
28 August 2023
Siena, Italy offers a captivating mix of medieval charm, rich history, and picturesque landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Marvel at the grandeur of the Piazza del Campo, the city's main square, and lose yourself in the narrow, winding streets that lead to the magnificent Siena Cathedral. Don't miss the iconic Palio horse race, held twice a year, where the city comes alive with excitement and tradition.
Travel plan
Getting latest place information
- Check into the Albergo Centrale, a charming hotel with Tuscan vibes and a panoramic rooftop terrace.
- Explore the iconic Piazza del Campo, where a biannual horse race called Palio takes place amidst medieval grandeur.
- Lose yourself in the narrow streets of Siena, stumbling upon picturesque hidden piazzas and gelaterias at every corner.
- Marvel at the magnificent Siena Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with intricate façades and breathtaking frescoes inside.
- Indulge in scrumptious pasta at Nonna Gina's, a family-run trattoria serving up traditional Tuscan dishes with love.
- Start your day with freshly baked cornetti and a cappuccino at Pasticceria Nannini, a beloved local pastry shop.
- Immerse yourself in art at the Pinacoteca Nazionale, showcasing Sienese masterpieces from the 13th to 17th centuries.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the medieval city walls, enjoying panoramic views of the rolling hills that surround Siena.
- Unleash your inner artist with a painting workshop at Art Studio, where you'll learn the secrets of Sienese art.
- Treat yourself to a rustic bistecca alla Fiorentina at Osteria Enoteca Sotto le Fonti, paired with a velvety Chianti wine.
- Embark on a day trip to San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval towers and Gelateria Dondoli, home to award-winning gelato flavors.
- Visit the Enoteca Falorni, a wine bar in Greve in Chianti, where you can savor delicious local wines and munch on Tuscan delicacies.
- Journey back in time at the Etruscan burial grounds of Monteriggioni, an impressive fortress that has withstood the test of time.
- Have a memorable dinner at Antica Trattoria Papei, renowned for its cinghiale (wild boar) stew and an extensive wine list.
- Return to Siena and enjoy a nightcap at Bar Il Palio, a lively spot to mingle with locals and try an authentic Negroni cocktail.
- Start your morning at the Santa Maria della Scala, a former hospital turned museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits and climb to the panoramic terrace.
- Wander through the Orto de' Pecci, a peaceful garden bursting with fragrant flowers and hidden sculptures.
- Visit the quirky Torture Museum, displaying bizarre and gruesome devices used throughout history.
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Osteria La Chiacchiera, feasting on bruschetta and Tuscan cheeses while chatting with friendly locals.
- Bid farewell to Siena with a beautiful sunset view from the Fonte Gaia, a majestic fountain where the inhabitants of Siena celebrated their first piped water in the 14th century.
Length of stay
Type of trip
How to get there
Plane
The closest airport to Siena is Florence Airport (FLR). From there, you can take a taxi or a public bus to Florence Santa Maria Novella train station. From the train station, you can catch a train to Siena. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and offers beautiful views of the Tuscan countryside.
Car
To reach Siena by car, you can take the A1 highway from Rome or Florence. Follow the signs for Siena and take the Siena Ovest exit. From there, continue on the SS223 and follow the signs to the city center. The journey time can vary depending on traffic and your starting location.
Train
To reach Siena by train, you can take a train to Florence Santa Maria Novella train station. From there, you can catch a direct train to Siena. The train journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the type of train.
Boat
As Siena is located inland, there are no direct boat routes. However, if you would like to incorporate a boat journey into your trip, you can consider taking a boat to Livorno or Piombino on the coast of Tuscany. From there, you can rent a car or take a train or bus to reach Siena.
Bus
If you prefer to travel by bus, you can take a bus from Florence to Siena. Buses depart from Florence Santa Maria Novella bus station and arrive at Siena Piazza Gramsci. The journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
