Siena

Latest page update: 18 September 2024
By Dion Protani
Beautiful Siena is nestled in the heart of Tuscany and is the capital of the province of Siena. With a population of around 52,000 inhabitants, it's renowned for its medieval architecture and the Palio, a thrilling horse race held in the iconic Piazza del Campo.

​Siena's medieval city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases the stunning Gothic architecture of its cathedral and the intricate marble mosaic floor of the Siena Cathedral. Visitors are drawn to its narrow streets, charming squares, and rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination in Tuscany.
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Siena: dazzling home of the Palio​
Siena, a jewel of Tuscany, captivates visitors with its rich history and medieval charm. The iconic Piazza del Campo, shaped like a scallop shell, serves as the city's beating heart, home to the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico and the soaring Torre del Mangia.

Wander through the narrow streets of the city's historic center to discover hidden gems like the Duomo di Siena, a stunning Gothic cathedral adorned with masterpieces by Michelangelo and Donatello. Dive into Siena's vibrant culture at the Contrada museums, which showcase the city's famous Palio horse race tradition.

​Take a leisurely stroll along the ancient city walls for panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Nearby, the Chianti region beckons with its picturesque vineyards and charming hilltop towns like San Gimignano and Monteriggioni, offering a taste of rural Tuscany's beauty and flavors.
Comune di Siena
Province: Siena

​​Region: Tuscany

Population: 52,974 (source: ISTAT 1 January 2024)

​Size: 118 km²

Elevation: 322 metres

Top sights: Piazza del Campo, Siena Cathedral, Torre del Mangia

Close by: Monteriggioni, Colle di Val d'Elsa, Buonconvento, Pienza

​Recommended accommodation: Hotel Athena
​Public transport: train station 2 km from centre, local buses

​​By car: Florence - 58 minutes (67 km), Grosseto - 1 hour (80 km)
By air: Florence Airport - 1 hour 9 minutes by car (86 km)​

By train: Asciano - 26 minutes, Montepulciano - 1 hour 2 minutes
UNESCO World Heritage Site

Historic Centre of Siena

​Year: 1995
What are the most popular tours and activities in Siena?
  • Piazza del Campo: Explore the iconic Piazza del Campo, one of Europe's greatest medieval squares and the heart of Siena. Visitors can admire the unique shell-shaped layout, the Palazzo Pubblico, and the Torre del Mangia while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena): Visit the stunning Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture known for its intricate façade, magnificent marble interior, and breathtaking artworks by masters like Donatello and Michelangelo.
  • Torre del Mangia: Climb the Torre del Mangia, a 14th-century tower adjacent to the Palazzo Pubblico, for panoramic views of Siena and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
  • Palio Experience: Immerse yourself in the excitement of the Palio di Siena, a historic horse race held twice a year in the Piazza del Campo. Visitors can witness the colorful pageantry, traditions, and rivalry of this centuries-old event.
  • Siena Walking Tours: Join guided walking tours of Siena's historic center, exploring its medieval streets, hidden alleyways, and architectural gems. Tours often include visits to landmarks like the Palazzo Salimbeni, the Contrade districts, and the Basilica of San Domenico.
  • Culinary Experiences: Indulge in Tuscan cuisine with food tours and tastings that showcase local specialties such as ribollita, pici pasta, and Chianti wine. Visitors can sample delicacies at traditional trattorias, wine bars, and markets, while learning about Siena's gastronomic traditions and culinary heritage.
Where should I eat in Siena?
  • Osteria Le Logge: Located near Piazza del Campo, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers an elegant dining experience featuring traditional Tuscan cuisine with a modern twist. The menu focuses on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, and the wine list showcases a selection of renowned Tuscan wines.
  • Antica Osteria da Divo: Housed within a historic underground Etruscan grotto, this restaurant offers a unique and atmospheric setting for enjoying authentic Tuscan dishes. The menu includes specialties such as pici pasta with wild boar ragù and Chianina beef steak, accompanied by an extensive wine list featuring local and regional wines.
  • La Taverna di San Giuseppe: Situated in a charming medieval alley, this family-run trattoria serves classic Tuscan fare in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Dishes are prepared with care using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the menu features a variety of pasta dishes, grilled meats, and homemade desserts.
  • Ristorante Guido: Located in the nearby village of Chiusi, Ristorante Guido is worth the short drive from Siena for its exceptional cuisine and picturesque setting. The restaurant specializes in creative interpretations of traditional Tuscan dishes, showcasing the chef's innovative approach to Italian cuisine.
  • Il Campo: Situated in the heart of Siena overlooking Piazza del Campo, this restaurant offers stunning views of the historic square and the Torre del Mangia. The menu features a mix of Tuscan and international dishes, with an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can dine al fresco on the terrace or enjoy the elegant interior dining room.
What should I eat in Siena?
  • Pappardelle al Cinghiale: Wide ribbon pasta served with a rich wild boar ragù sauce, a beloved Tuscan specialty.
  • Panzanella: A refreshing Tuscan salad made with stale bread, tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, basil, olive oil, and vinegar, perfect for hot summer days.
  • Tagliata di Manzo: Grilled and thinly sliced beef steak, often served with arugula, cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan cheese, and a balsamic reduction.
  • Ribollita: A hearty Tuscan soup made with bread, cannellini beans, kale or cabbage, carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes, simmered until thick and flavorful.
  • Cantucci e Vin Santo: Traditional almond biscotti served with Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine, for dipping, a classic way to end a meal in Tuscany.

Siena  Gallery

What are the best places to stay in Siena?
  • Hotel Athena: Located within walking distance of Piazza del Campo and the Siena Cathedral, Hotel Athena offers modern accommodations with a touch of traditional Tuscan style. The hotel features comfortable rooms equipped with modern amenities, a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city, a restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine, and a bar. Guests can also enjoy free Wi-Fi and parking facilities.
  • Grand Hotel Continental Siena - Starhotels Collezione: Housed in a historic building overlooking Piazza del Campo, the Grand Hotel Continental Siena offers luxurious accommodations in a prime location. The hotel features elegantly decorated rooms and suites with antique furnishings, marble bathrooms, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a gourmet restaurant, a bar, a wellness center with a spa and fitness facilities, and concierge services.
  • Hotel Palazzo di Valli: Situated in a tranquil residential area just outside the city center, Hotel Palazzo di Valli offers a peaceful retreat with easy access to Siena's attractions. The hotel occupies a historic villa surrounded by a beautiful garden and features comfortable rooms decorated in a classic style. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the elegant dining room, free Wi-Fi, and free parking.
  • Hotel Duomo: Nestled in the heart of Siena's historic center, Hotel Duomo offers cozy accommodations in a historic building dating back to the 17th century. The hotel features charming rooms with traditional Tuscan decor, exposed wooden beams, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast served in the breakfast room or on the outdoor terrace, free Wi-Fi, and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Hotel Campo Regio Relais: Set in a renovated 16th-century building overlooking Piazza del Campo, Hotel Campo Regio Relais offers boutique accommodations with a blend of historic charm and modern comforts. The hotel features stylish rooms and suites with elegant furnishings, exposed brick walls, and luxurious amenities. Guests can enjoy a continental breakfast served in the cozy breakfast room, free Wi-Fi, and personalized service.
What's the closest airport to Siena?
Florence Airport (Aeroporto di Firenze-Peretola) (FLR):

  • Located in Florence, approximately 70 kilometers north of Siena.
  • Florence Airport is the closest major airport serving Siena.
  • From Florence Airport, you can reach Siena by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Siena takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Florence's main train station (Santa Maria Novella) and then catch a train to Siena.

Pisa International Airport (Aeroporto di Pisa - Galileo Galilei) (PSA):

  • Located in Pisa, approximately 140 kilometers west of Siena.
  • Pisa Airport is another option, although it's located farther away from Siena compared to Florence Airport.
  • From Pisa Airport, you can reach Siena by rental car, taxi, or public transportation. Renting a car and driving to Siena takes around 2 hours to 2 hours and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are available outside the airport terminals, but they can be expensive for long journeys. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or shuttle to Pisa Central Train Station (Pisa Centrale) and then catch a train to Siena.
What's the main train station in Siena?
Siena Train Station (Stazione di Siena):

  • Located in the city center of Siena.
  • Siena Train Station is well-connected to major cities in Italy, including Florence, Pisa, Rome, and Milan.
  • From Siena Train Station, you can easily explore the city and its surroundings using local buses, taxis, or on foot.
What private transfer options are there for Siena?
A private transfer from Florence Airport to Siena takes around 1 hour. 

If you'd like a price for this service just email us using the [email protected] mailbox, providing the following details:
​
  • Arrival location (airport, train station or other)
  • Arrival date
  • Arrival time
  • Number of passengers
  • Destination (either town or specific hotel) 
​
Once we have those details we'll get back to you with a price, a travel schedule and how the transfer will work.
Alternatively, you can use the private transfer booking engine below:
Where can I rent a car in Siena?
Hertz:
   - Address: Via dei Mille, 1, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
   - Phone: +39 0577 49510

Europcar:
   - Address: Via Fiorentina, 25, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
   - Phone: +39 0577 280645

Avis:
   - Address: Viale Vittorio Veneto, 11, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
   - Phone: +39 0577 280644

Sixt:
   - Address: Via Massetana Romana, 45, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
   - Phone: +39 0577 44771

Budget:
   - Address: Viale Vittorio Veneto, 29, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
   - Phone: +39 0577 222804
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