Sienna, Italy

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Siena, Italy

Planning Your Trip

Before you start your journey, here’s what you need to know:

Best Time to Visit

Siena is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is mild and sunny. The summer months (June to August) can be hot, while the winter months (December to February) are chilly.

Getting There

The closest airport is Florence Airport (FLR), which is about 70 km from Siena. You can take a train or bus from the airport to Siena.

  • By Train: Trains run frequently between Florence and Siena, taking around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
  • By Bus: Buses are another option, taking around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
  • By Car: If you’re driving from Florence, take the A1 highway towards Rome. The journey takes about an hour.

Places to Visit

Siena is a treasure trove of history, art, and architecture. Here are some must-visit places:

Piazza del Campo

This medieval square is the heart of Siena’s historic center. It hosts various events throughout the year, including the famous Palio horse racing event.

Duomo di Siena

The Siena Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, featuring intricate marble work and stunning stained-glass windows.

Palazzo Pubblico

This palace was built in the 14th century as the seat of government. Today, it houses the Civic Museum, which showcases art and artifacts from Sienese history.

Basilica di San Francesco

This beautiful basilica is dedicated to St. Francis of Assisi and features stunning frescoes by Ambrogio Lorenzetti and other Sienese artists.

Orto de’ Pecci

This charming botanical garden offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city center. It’s home to over 200 species of plants and trees.

Activities

Siena has plenty to offer in terms of activities:

  • Horse Riding: Take a horse ride through the Tuscan countryside, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills and vineyards.
  • Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Sienese dishes like pici alla salsiccia and ribollita.
  • Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries and taste some of the best wines in Tuscany.
  • Shopping: Browse through local markets and shops selling handmade crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Where to Eat

Siena has a rich culinary tradition. Here are some must-try places:

Trattoria Il Papà

This cozy trattoria serves traditional Sienese cuisine, including ribollita and pici alla salsiccia.

Ristorante La Taverna di San Giuseppe

This restaurant offers a range of local dishes, including game meats and wild mushrooms.

Gelateria della Passera

This gelateria is famous for its unique flavors like ricotta and honey.

Where to Stay

Siena has plenty of accommodation options:

  • B&B La Casetta
    • This charming B&B is located in the heart of Siena’s historic center.
    • Each room has a private bathroom and free Wi-Fi.
    • Breakfast is served on a sunny patio overlooking the city.

Transportation

Getting around Siena is easy:

  • Walking: The historic center is compact, making walking the best way to explore.
  • Bike Rental: Rent a bike to explore the surrounding countryside or visit nearby towns.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available for hire at the train station or in the city center.

Tips and Essentials

Here’s what you need to know:

Safety

Siena is generally a safe city, but petty theft can occur. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of pickpocketing.

Language

While Italian is the primary language spoken in Siena, many locals speak English, especially among the tourism industry.

Other Interesting Facts

Here are some additional facts about Siena:

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site: Siena’s historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995.
  • Palio Horse Racing: The Palio horse racing event takes place twice a year, on July 2nd and August 16th.
  • Sienese Painters: Siena was home to many famous painters, including Ambrogio Lorenzetti and Duccio di Buoninsegna.