Sienna, Italy-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Historic Center

  • Morning: Arrive in Siena, check-in at your hotel (see below for recommendations)
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Piazza del Campo, the heart of Siena’s historic center. This medieval square is home to the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia.
  • 10:00 AM: Explore the nearby Palazzo Pubblico (Town Hall) and its impressive courtyard, featuring a 14th-century fresco by Ambrogio Lorenzetti.
  • 12:00 PM: Grab lunch at La Taverna di San Giuseppe, a cozy restaurant serving traditional Sienese cuisine. Try their famous ribollita soup!
  • 1:30 PM: Visit the Siena Cathedral (Duomo), a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Be sure to see the intricate marble floors and the Piccolomini Library.
  • Evening: Enjoy a stroll through the narrow streets of the historic center, taking in the charming atmosphere.

Day 2: Wine Tasting and Countryside Exploration

  • 9:00 AM: Head to the nearby Castello di Broglio, a medieval castle offering wine tastings and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • 11:30 AM: Visit the Azienda Agricola San Lorenzo, a local winery that produces high-quality Chianti Classico wines. Enjoy a tasting and learn about the production process.
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at La Cantina del Leopardo, a wine bar serving delicious small plates to accompany your wine tastings.
  • 3:30 PM: Visit the charming hilltop town of San Gimignano, known for its medieval towers and stunning views of the Tuscan countryside.

Day 3: Art, History, and Architecture

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Pinacoteca Nazionale (National Gallery), which features an impressive collection of Sienese art from the 14th to 17th centuries.
  • 11:30 AM: Explore the Santa Maria della Scala, a beautiful hospital complex that served as a hospice and a museum. Its courtyard is adorned with stunning frescoes by Pinturicchio.
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at La Porta, a restaurant serving modern Italian cuisine using local ingredients.
  • 3:30 PM: Visit the Museo Civico (Civic Museum), which showcases Siena’s history and art through various exhibits and artifacts.

Day 4: Relaxation Day

  • 9:00 AM: Spend the morning relaxing at your hotel or exploring the nearby streets of the historic center.
  • 12:30 PM: Treat yourself to a delicious lunch at La Taverna di San Giuseppe, which serves an excellent risotto with porcini mushrooms.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Terme dei Mulino, a spa offering relaxation treatments and a peaceful atmosphere.

Day 5: Nature and Adventure

  • 9:00 AM: Head to the nearby Parco Naturale di Chianti, a beautiful nature reserve offering hiking trails, scenic views, and picturesque villages.
  • 12:30 PM: Lunch at La Cantina del Leopardo, which serves delicious panini and salads.
  • 2:30 PM: Visit the Chiesa della Misericordia, a charming church featuring stunning frescoes by Sienese artists.

Day 6: Markets, Food, and Wine

  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Mercato di San Giusto, a bustling market selling local produce, cheese, and wine.
  • 11:30 AM: Taste some of Siena’s famous food at La Cucina Senese, which offers cooking classes and tastings.
  • 1:00 PM: Lunch at Il Guelfo Brunelleschi, a restaurant serving traditional Tuscan cuisine using local ingredients.
  • 3:30 PM: Visit the Enoteca Italiana, a wine bar featuring an impressive selection of Italian wines.

Day 7: Departure

  • Morning: Spend your last morning in Siena exploring any last-minute sights or shopping for souvenirs.
  • 12:00 PM: Check-out from your hotel and depart for your next destination.

Hotel Recommendations:

  • La Fontanella: A charming boutique hotel located in the heart of the historic center, offering comfortable rooms and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Palazzo Bruscoli: A 14th-century palace turned into a luxurious hotel, featuring stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Tips and Transportation:

  • Walking: Siena is a pedestrian-friendly city, making walking the best way to explore its historic center.
  • Bus: Use the local bus service (Sienobus) to reach nearby towns and attractions.
  • Taxi: Hire a taxi for longer trips or when you’re feeling tired.
  • Bike Rental: Rent a bike to explore the surrounding countryside.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Siena has a Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Be sure to pack accordingly.
  • Currency: Euros are the local currency, but many places accept credit cards.
  • Language: Italian is the official language, but many locals speak some English.

Other Recommendations:

  • Wine Tours: Book a wine tour to explore Siena’s nearby wineries and taste some of its famous wines.
  • Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class to learn about traditional Tuscan cuisine and prepare local dishes.
  • Horseback Riding: Explore the surrounding countryside on horseback for a unique experience.

Address and Contact Information:

  • Tourist Information Office (APT): Piazza del Campo, 53000 Siena. Phone: +39 0577 280512
  • Hotel La Fontanella: Via San Giuseppe, 1, 53045 Siena. Phone: +39 0577 270331

Language and Currency:

  • Italian: Italian is the official language, but many locals speak some English.
  • Euro (€): Euros are the local currency, but many places accept credit cards.

Have a wonderful time in Siena!