Siena-7-day-itinerary

Siena, Italy - A 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in Siena and check-in at your accommodation. Start with a visit to the iconic Piazza del Campo, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy.
  • Afternoon: Explore the surrounding streets, take a stroll through the charming Via dei Termini shopping street, and visit the nearby Palazzo Pubblico (Public Palace) and its adjacent Museo Civico (Civic Museum).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Taverna di San Giuseppe, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.
  • Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Palazzo delle Papesse, a beautifully restored 14th-century palace.

Day 2: Siena’s Medieval Heritage

  • Morning: Visit the impressive Siena Cathedral (Duomo), a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture. Take a guided tour to explore its intricate details and stunning frescoes.
  • Afternoon: Explore the nearby Basilica di San Domenico, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, and visit the adjacent Museo Diocesano (Diocesan Museum).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Cantina del Gajo, a wine bar serving an extensive selection of Tuscan wines.
  • Transportation: Siena is a pedestrian-friendly city. Explore on foot or use public transportation (bus) to reach nearby destinations.

Day 3: Countryside and Wine

  • Morning: Visit the charming hilltop village of San Gimignano, known for its stunning medieval towers and breathtaking views.
  • Afternoon: Head to the picturesque countryside and visit a local winery, such as Castello di Ama or Castello di Casanova. Learn about the production of Chianti Classico wines and enjoy a tasting.
  • Evening: Return to Siena and enjoy dinner at La Taverna dei Mercanti, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Day 4: Palazzo Pubblico and Museum

  • Morning: Visit the imposing Palazzo Pubblico (Public Palace) and its adjacent Museo Civico (Civic Museum). Explore the palace’s impressive architecture and learn about Siena’s history through the museum’s exhibits.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the charming streets of Siena, visit local shops, and enjoy a stroll along the Noble Street (Via di San Pietro).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Cantina del Gajo, a wine bar serving an extensive selection of Tuscan wines.

Day 5: Tuscany’s Countryside

  • Morning: Visit the charming hilltop village of Montepulciano, known for its stunning medieval architecture and breathtaking views.
  • Afternoon: Head to the picturesque countryside and visit the nearby town of Chianciano Terme, famous for its thermal baths. Soak up the relaxing atmosphere and enjoy a stroll along the surrounding hills.
  • Evening: Return to Siena and enjoy dinner at La Taverna dei Mercanti.

Day 6: Art, History, and Relaxation

  • Morning: Visit the impressive Santa Maria della Scala, a medieval hospital turned museum. Explore its fascinating history and learn about the art and architecture of Tuscany.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the charming streets of Siena, visit local shops, and enjoy a stroll along the Noble Street (Via di San Pietro).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at La Cantina del Gajo, a wine bar serving an extensive selection of Tuscan wines.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend some time shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions.
  • Afternoon: Check-out from your accommodation and head to the airport or your next destination.

Tips and Reminders

  • Siena is a pedestrian-friendly city, so explore on foot whenever possible.
  • Public transportation (bus) is available to reach nearby destinations.
  • Don’t miss the stunning views of Siena’s rooftops from the top of Torre del Mangia.
  • Try some local specialties like Ribollita, a hearty soup made with vegetables and bread.

Getting Around

  • Public buses run regularly throughout Siena. You can find schedules at the tourist information office or on their website.
  • Walking is the best way to explore Siena’s charming streets and historic center.
  • Bicycles are available for rent, but be aware that traffic in Siena can be heavy.

Weather

  • Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are ideal times to visit Siena, with mild temperatures and fewer tourists.
  • Summer can be hot, especially during the peak tourist season (June-August).
  • Winter is the low season, but still a great time to enjoy Siena’s festive atmosphere and discounted prices.

Accommodation

  • Hotel Palazzo delle Papesse: A beautifully restored 14th-century palace offering luxurious rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • La Taverna di San Giuseppe: A cozy restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine, also offering rooms for guests.

Budget Breakdown

  • Accommodation: €80-€150 per night (depending on the season)
  • Food: €20-€40 per meal (lunch and dinner)
  • Transportation: €1-€3 per ride (public bus) or free with a tourist card
  • Attractions: €5-€15 per person (museums, palaces, etc.)

This itinerary should provide you with a comprehensive guide to exploring Siena’s charming streets, historic center, and beautiful countryside. Enjoy your trip!