Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, the medieval city of Siena captivates visitors with its rich history, Gothic architecture, and the stunning shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. The UNESCO World Heritage site offers countless treasures, from the magnificent Siena Cathedral with its striking black and white Carrara marble to the towering Torre del Mangia, where climbing 400 steps rewards adventurers with breathtaking views of the Tuscan landscape.
🏠 Where to Stay in Siena
- ✨ 5-Star: Grand Hotel Continental
- 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Executive
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Albergo Chiusarelli
- 💸 Cheap: Albergo Tre Donzelle
- 🏢 Apartament: Anghel Residence
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Il Giardino di Pantaneto
- 🏩 For Couples: Residenze d'Epoca Palazzo Coli Bizzarrini
A journey through Siena’s 17 contrade districts reveals artistic heritage at every turn, from vibrant frescoes in the Piccolomini Library to the remarkable Fonte Gaia, the city’s largest fountain. The city’s remarkable museums, including the Civic Museum and Pinacoteca Nazionale, house masterpieces by renowned artists of the Sienese school, while the surrounding Chianti wine region and Val d’Orcia beckon with opportunities for unforgettable day trips.
💁 Best Guided Tours
- Educational Wine Tour and Tasting in Siena from € 90 (⭐5/5)
- Tuscan Cooking Class in Siena from € 130 (⭐4.8/5)
- Siena Walking Tour from € 160 (⭐4.8/5)
- Hot Air Balloon Flight Over Tuscany from Siena from € 330 (⭐4.7/5)
Best Things to Do in Siena
1. 💒 Siena Cathedral Complex
Architectural Wonder: The stunning Duomo complex represents the pinnacle of Romanesque-Gothic architecture, featuring the iconic black and white marble façade that has become synonymous with Sienese style. The interior reveals the breathtaking Piccolomini Library, adorned with vibrant frescoes painted by Pinturicchio, depicting scenes of the life of Pope Pius II.
Sacred Art: The cathedral’s interior is divided into nine sections, each showcasing remarkable artistic heritage from the thirteenth century. The baptismal font and the original statues by Lorenzo Ghiberti and Giovanni di Balduccio stand as testimonies to the city’s golden age of art.
Time Saver: Purchase the combined ticket for the Cathedral Complex of Santa Maria della Scala online and visit during early morning hours to avoid tour groups.
⭐ Siena Cathedral – Check availability of tickets
2. 🏰 Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia
Historic Treasury: The Gothic-style Palazzo Comunale houses the renowned Civic Museum, featuring an extraordinary series of frescoes by Simone Martini and other famous artists of the Sienese school. The museum’s collection spans multiple centuries and provides insight into the rich history of Siena.
Tower Experience: Climbing the Torre del Mangia’s 87 meters offers not just a physical challenge but rewards visitors with panoramic views of the medieval city of Siena and the surrounding Tuscan countryside. The bell tower stands as one of Italy’s most remarkable examples of secular Gothic architecture.
Insider Tip: Book your tower climb for late afternoon to catch the golden hour light over the city, but avoid midday hours during summer when temperatures can be uncomfortable.
3. 🏛️ Piazza del Campo
Historic Heart: The shell-shaped Piazza del Campo stands as Europe’s finest medieval square, where the famous Palio horse race has been held since medieval times. The stunning Fonte Gaia, adorned with replicas of Jacopo della Quercia’s original 15th-century sculptures, provides a magnificent centerpiece to this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Cultural Hub: The piazza serves as Siena’s living room, surrounded by the Gothic-style Palazzo Comunale and medieval palaces that showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage. This is where locals and visitors gather to experience the authentic atmosphere of Siena, from casual evening passeggiata to major cultural events.
Money Saver: Visit the cafes on the side streets leading off the Campo for more reasonable prices, as establishments directly on the piazza charge premium rates.
⭐ Best Activities
Skip-the-Line Siena Duomo and City Walking Tour:This guided walking tour combines priority access to Siena’s magnificent Cathedral (Duomo) with an exploration of the medieval city’s historic center. Visitors can admire the stunning black and white marble facade, explore the Piccolomini Library with its vibrant frescoes painted by Pinturicchio, and learn about the cathedral’s artistic heritage including works by Nicola Pisano and Lorenzo Ghiberti.
4. 🏛️ Facciatone
Architectural Marvel: The unfinished facade of the “New Cathedral” stands as a testament to Siena’s ambitious 14th-century plan to build the largest cathedral in Italy. The structure offers breathtaking views over Siena’s rooftops and the Duomo, with its viewing platform sitting at a strategic position that allows visitors to appreciate the cathedral’s intricate architectural details up close.
Historical Legacy: Construction began in 1339 with plans to transform the existing cathedral’s transept into the nave of a massive new church, but the Black Death of 1348 halted the project forever. The remaining structure now serves as one of Siena’s most unique viewpoints and includes original medieval building techniques still visible in its stonework.
Time Saver: Purchase the combined OPA Si Pass which includes access to the Facciatone, and visit during mid-morning when the lighting is perfect for photography of both the cathedral and cityscape.
5. 🎨 Basilica of San Domenico
Religious Heritage: The imposing Basilica of San Domenico, one of Siena’s most important churches, dominates the city’s skyline with its austere Gothic architecture. The church houses precious religious relics including the head of Saint Catherine of Siena, the patron saint of Italy, displayed in an ornate gilded reliquary.
Artistic Treasures: Inside, visitors can admire remarkable works by famous artists of the Sienese school, including frescoes painted by Sodoma and the only known portrait of Saint Catherine painted during her lifetime. The chapel dedicated to Saint Catherine features vibrant frescoes depicting scenes of her life.
Time Saver: Visit early morning or during mass times to experience the basilica’s spiritual atmosphere with fewer tourists.
⭐ Best Activities
Siena Walking Tour: This comprehensive walking tour takes visitors through the heart of medieval Siena, exploring its UNESCO World Heritage historic center. Led by expert local guides, the tour covers major attractions including the stunning shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, the magnificent black and white marble Siena Cathedral, and the fascinating contrade districts with their unique symbols and traditions.
6. ✨ Pinacoteca Nazionale
Art Collection: Housed in the elegant Palazzo Buonsignori, the Pinacoteca Nazionale showcases one of Italy’s most important collections of Sienese art from the thirteenth century onwards. The museum’s extensive collection includes masterpieces by renowned Chianti artists like Simone Martini and the Lorenzetti brothers.
Historical Journey: Each room reveals the evolution of the Sienese school, from Gothic paintings to Renaissance masterpieces, displaying beautifully decorated altarpieces, religious panels, and secular art that shaped Tuscany’s artistic heritage.
Insider Tip: Purchase the combined ticket that includes access to the Civic Museum for a comprehensive understanding of Siena’s artistic legacy.
7. 📚 Piccolomini Library
Renaissance Marvel: Built between 1492 and 1502, this spectacular library showcases some of the finest Renaissance frescoes in Italy, painted by Pinturicchio and his workshop, including a young Raphael. The vibrant ceiling features intricate grotesque decorations, mythological scenes, and the cardinal’s coat of arms at its center.
Artistic Legacy: Ten magnificent frescoes adorn the walls, depicting the life and achievements of Pope Pius II, executed between 1503 and 1508. The library houses precious illuminated manuscripts and choir books decorated by renowned artists Girolamo da Cremona and Liberale da Verona, representing the finest examples of 15th-century Italian miniature art.
Time Saver: Purchase the Opa Si Pass for access to the library and other cathedral attractions; visit during mid-morning for the best natural light to appreciate the frescoes’ vivid colors.
Things to Do in Siena with Kids
1. 🎨 Children’s Art Museum
Interactive Learning: Located within the Santa Maria della Scala complex, this museum offers creative workshops and hands-on activities designed specifically for young visitors. Children can explore art through interactive exhibits and create their own masterpieces using various materials.
Educational Fun: Expert-led workshops help kids develop their artistic skills while learning about Siena’s rich cultural heritage in a playful environment.
2. ⚔️ Fortezza Medicea
Military Heritage: Built between 1561 and 1563 on the orders of Cosimo I de’ Medici, this impressive fortress represents Florence’s dominion over Siena after its conquest. Today, the structure houses the Enoteca Italiana, featuring an extensive collection of Italian wines from the renowned Chianti wine region.
Modern Cultural Hub: The fortress’s vast grounds span 38,000 square meters and include beautiful gardens, walking paths, and regular cultural events. The structure has been transformed from a symbol of military might into a beloved public park where locals gather for concerts, exhibitions, and wine tastings throughout the year.
Local Secret: Visit during the weekly Sunday morning market when local vendors sell artisanal products and the atmosphere is particularly lively with families enjoying picnics on the fortress grounds.
Free Things to Do in Siena
1. 🌳 Val d’Orcia Excursion
Natural Beauty: The UNESCO-protected Val d’Orcia region stretches south of Siena, offering some of Tuscany’s most photographed landscapes. Rolling hills dotted with cypress trees, medieval towns like Montalcino, and the renowned Brunello di Montalcino wine estates create an unforgettable experience.
Cultural Heritage: Visit Monte dei Paschi, one of the world’s oldest banks, and explore the beautifully decorated medieval buildings of Pienza, the perfect Renaissance town. The region is also famous for its pecorino cheese and traditional Tuscan cuisine.
Money Saver: Book a group tour that combines visits to multiple towns in tuscany and includes wine tasting at local vineyards for better value.
2. 🏰 Porta Camollia and City Gates
Medieval Defense: The historic gates of Siena, including the impressive Porta Camollia and Porta Romana, stand as testimonies to the city’s medieval fortifications. These entrances once controlled access to the medieval city of Siena and now serve as orientation points for exploring the historic center.
Architectural Heritage: Each gate features unique architectural elements and tells stories of Siena’s rich history through their design and positioning. The areas around these gates offer excellent examples of medieval buildings and lesser-known artistic treasures.
Local Secret: Take a walking tour along the old city walls starting from Porta Camollia for spectacular views and photo opportunities away from the main tourist routes.
3. 🏺 Orto de’ Pecci
Green Oasis: This medieval garden and urban farm located within the city walls offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling tourist areas. The site includes restored medieval gardens, vineyards, and a traditional Tuscan restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine.
Historical Gardens: The gardens showcase medieval agricultural techniques and maintain the authentic character of a Tuscan working farm, complete with herb gardens and ancient grain cultivation.
Money Saver: Visit during lunch for the excellent-value fixed menu featuring traditional Sienese dishes made with ingredients from the garden.
4. 🏛️ Palazzo Salimbeni
Banking Legacy: Built in the 14th century, this Gothic masterpiece serves as the headquarters of Monte dei Paschi di Siena, founded in 1472 and recognized as the world’s oldest operating bank. The palace’s facade features exquisite Gothic architectural details including pointed arches and decorative stonework that exemplify Siena’s medieval craftsmanship.
Art Collection: The palazzo houses a remarkable private collection of paintings and historical documents chronicling Siena’s economic power during the Middle Ages. The building’s architecture combines elements from different periods, showcasing the evolution of Sienese architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance.
Money Saver: While the interior is typically closed to the public, free guided tours are occasionally offered during cultural heritage weeks, usually in spring and fall.
5. 🎭 Loggia del Papa
Renaissance Heritage: Built in 1462 by Antonio Federighi as a tribute to Pope Pius II Piccolomini, this elegant loggia represents one of the few pure Renaissance structures in predominantly Gothic Siena. The graceful arches feature the Piccolomini family coat of arms and Latin inscriptions honoring the Pope, while the building’s harmonious proportions exemplify Renaissance architectural principles.
Historical Significance: Located near the Palazzo Piccolomini, the loggia served as a gathering place for noble families and a symbol of papal influence in Siena. The structure’s elegant design includes three wide arches supported by classical columns, demonstrating the shift from medieval to Renaissance architectural styles.
Time Saver: Visit early morning when the light perfectly illuminates the Latin inscriptions and architectural details, and combine this visit with the nearby Palazzo Piccolomini.
6. 🌿 Orto Botanico dell’Università di Siena
Natural Haven: Established in 1588, this historic 2.5-hectare botanical garden showcases an impressive collection of over 2,000 plant species. The garden features systematic beds of medicinal herbs, ancient fruit trees, and three specialized greenhouses housing tropical plants, succulents, and citrus varieties.
Academic Legacy: The garden has served as a center for botanical research and education for centuries, maintaining its original purpose of cultivating medicinal herbs while expanding to include exotic species and native Tuscan plants. The collection includes rare endemic species and a significant variety of Chianti grape vines.
Local Secret: Visit during spring flowering season when the Mediterranean species are in full bloom, and don’t miss the carnivorous plant collection in the orangery.
7. ⛲ Fontana Contrada Selva
District Pride: This historic fountain represents the Forest (Selva) contrada, one of Siena’s 17 historic districts, featuring intricate carvings and symbolic decorations that tell the story of this particular neighborhood. The fountain serves as both a practical water source and a symbol of the district’s identity.
Cultural Heritage: The fountain’s design incorporates the district’s emblem of a rhinoceros surrounded by oak trees, reflecting the medieval tradition of using animals and natural elements as symbols. The structure continues to play a vital role in district celebrations and Palio preparations.
Money Saver: Visit during the free contrade walking tours that many local guides offer during the off-season months.
Seasonal Activities in Siena
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Spring Awakening: The mild Tuscan spring brings perfect conditions for exploring Siena’s medieval streets and surrounding countryside. The hills around Siena burst with wildflowers, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and wine tasting in the Chianti region.
Cultural Events:
- Festa della Primavera (March 21): Traditional spring festival with local food and wine
- Holy Week Celebrations (dates vary): Processions and religious ceremonies throughout the contrade
- Maggio dei Libri (May 1-31): Literary festival featuring book presentations and author meetings
Time Saver: Book spring activities in advance as this is when tourism begins to pick up in Tuscany.
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Festival Season: Summer brings Siena’s most famous event, the Palio horse race, transforming the city into a medieval spectacle. The shell-shaped Piazza del Campo becomes the center of intense competition between the contrade.
Major Events:
- Palio di Siena (July 2 and August 16): Historic horse race and medieval pageantry
- Estate Senese (June-September): Cultural events, concerts, and outdoor cinema
- Siena Jazz Festival (Last week of July): International jazz performances in historic venues
Insider Tip: Book accommodations months in advance for Palio dates, as rooms fill up quickly and prices surge.
🍁 Autumn (September – November)
Harvest Season: The surrounding Chianti wine region and Val d’Orcia come alive with grape and olive harvesting activities. The weather remains mild, perfect for exploring both city and countryside.
Traditional Celebrations:
- Grape Harvest Festival (September 15-30): Wine tasting events throughout the region
- White Truffle Festival (October-November): Culinary events featuring local delicacies
- Mercato nel Campo (First weekend of December): Medieval market recreation in Piazza del Campo
Money Saver: Many wineries offer harvest experience packages at reduced rates during weekdays.
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Cultural Heritage: Winter in Siena brings a more intimate atmosphere, with fewer tourists and many indoor cultural activities in museums and historic buildings.
Seasonal Events:
- Feast of Santa Lucia (December 13): Traditional celebrations and food markets
- Christmas in Siena (December 8 – January 6): Holiday markets and nativity scenes
- Winter Music Festival (February): Classical concerts in historic venues
Local Secret: Visit the Pinacoteca Nazionale and other museums during winter months when they’re less crowded and often offer special exhibitions.
Time Saver: Many annual events offer online pre-booking options, which can save significant time and often money.
Day Trips from Siena
1. 🍷 Chianti Wine Region Experience
Wine Heritage: The surrounding Chianti region represents one of Italy’s most renowned wine-producing areas, with centuries-old vineyards producing the famous Brunello di Montalcino and Chianti Classico wines. The landscape is dotted with medieval castles, historic wineries, and charming hill towns.
Culinary Journey: Beyond wine, the region offers exceptional culinary experiences featuring Pecorino cheese, traditional Tuscan dishes, and local specialties. The rolling hills and cypress-lined roads create the perfect backdrop for food and wine exploration.
Insider Tip: Book a morning wine tour to avoid crowds and enjoy better tasting conditions, as your palate is fresher earlier in the day.
⭐ Best Activities
Small-Group Brunello di Montalcino Wine Tasting Trip from Siena: This intimate 9-hour tour takes wine enthusiasts through the stunning Tuscan countryside to explore the renowned Brunello di Montalcino wine region. Participants visit multiple family-owned wineries for guided tastings of the prestigious Brunello wines, learn about traditional production methods, and enjoy a authentic Tuscan lunch paired with local wines.
2. 🏬 San Gimignano
Medieval Manhattan: This stunning hill town, known for its medieval towers, offers a perfect day trip from Siena. The UNESCO-protected historic center preserves its 14th-century architecture and atmosphere, with 14 of its original 72 towers still standing.
Artistic Treasures: The Collegiate Church houses remarkable frescoes by Ghirlandaio, while the Civic Museum contains masterpieces of Sienese art. The town is also famous for its award-winning Vernaccia white wine and artisanal gelato.
Time Saver: Visit San Gimignano in late afternoon when day-trippers have left to enjoy a more authentic experience and better photo opportunities.
❓ FAQ
What are the main attractions in Siena’s historic center?
The UNESCO World Heritage site features the stunning black-and-white marble Siena Cathedral (Duomo), the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo with its famous Torre del Mangia (400 steps to climb), and the Palazzo Pubblico housing the Civic Museum with remarkable frescoes by Simone Martini. The Piccolomini Library, decorated with vibrant frescoes painted by Pinturicchio depicting the life of Pope Pius II, is another must-see attraction.
How long should I spend visiting Siena?
While many visitors come for a day trip from Florence, spending 2-3 nights in Siena allows you to fully explore the medieval city of Siena, experience the authentic atmosphere of the 17 contrade districts, and enjoy the city after day-trippers leave. This also gives time to visit attractions like the Museum Complex of Santa Maria della Scala and take day trips to the Chianti wine region.
What’s the best way to get to and around Siena?
Siena is easily accessible by train from Florence (1.5 hours) or by bus (1.15 hours). The historic center is compact and best explored on foot. For those driving, parking is available at Porta Romana and Porta Camollia. The train station connects to the city center via regular bus service.
When is the best time to visit Siena?
The ideal times are spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and crowds are smaller. Summer (June-August) features the famous Palio horse race held twice (July 2 and August 16) in Piazza del Campo, but this is also the busiest and hottest season.
How can I save money while visiting Siena’s attractions?
Purchase the combined OPA Si Pass for access to the Cathedral Complex, including the Porta del Cielo rooftop walkway and Museum Complex of Santa Maria della Scala. Visit restaurants a few streets back from Piazza del Campo for more authentic and affordable dining options. Many museums offer free entry during cultural heritage weeks.
What unique experiences shouldn’t I miss in Siena?
Don’t miss exploring the 17 contrade districts with their unique symbols and traditions, visiting the Piccolomini Library with its remarkable frescoes, climbing the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views of the Tuscan landscape, and experiencing local specialties like Brunello di Montalcino wine and pecorino cheese.
