Are you looking for a destination that will take you back in time, fill your eyes with beauty, and delight your taste buds with delicious food and wine? Then you should definitely visit Siena, Italy, one of the most charming and historic cities in Tuscany!
Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its medieval architecture, art, and culture. It is also the home of the Palio, a thrilling horse race that takes place twice a year in the stunning Piazza del Campo, the heart of the city.
In this guide, I will show you some of the best things to see and do in Siena, as well as some tips on where to stay and eat. Let’s get started!
What to see in Siena
Siena has so many attractions that you will need at least a couple of days to explore them all. Here are some of the highlights:
- Duomo di Siena: This is one of the most impressive cathedrals in Italy, with a striking facade and a magnificent interior. The cathedral is full of artworks by famous artists such as Duccio, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Pinturicchio. Don’t miss the Biblioteca Piccolomini, a library with stunning frescoes by Pinturicchio, and the crypt, where you can admire some of the oldest paintings in Siena.
- Piazza del Campo: This is the main square of Siena, where the Palio takes place. It is shaped like a shell and surrounded by elegant palaces and towers. The most prominent one is the Torre del Mangia, which offers a panoramic view of the city from its top. In the center of the square stands the Fonte Gaia, a beautiful fountain with sculptures by Jacopo della Quercia.
- Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico: This is the town hall of Siena, where you can visit the Museo Civico, a museum that displays some of the most important paintings of Sienese art. The highlight is the Sala dei Nove, where you can admire the Allegory of Good Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, a masterpiece of political philosophy and social realism.
- Santa Maria della Scala: This is one of the oldest hospitals in Europe, founded in the 9th century to care for pilgrims and poor people. Today it is a museum that showcases the history and art of Siena. You can see frescoes, sculptures, paintings, and archaeological finds from different periods. You can also visit the underground tunnels that connect the hospital to the cathedral.
- Battistero di San Giovanni: This is the baptistery of Siena, located behind the cathedral. It has a beautiful octagonal font with bronze panels by Donatello, Ghiberti, and Jacopo della Quercia. The walls are decorated with frescoes by Lorenzo di Pietro and Francesco di Giorgio Martini.
Where to stay in Siena
Siena has plenty of accommodation options for every budget and taste. Here are some of my recommendations:
- Relais degli Angeli: This is a luxury boutique hotel located in a 17th-century palace near Piazza del Campo. The rooms are spacious and elegant, with antique furniture and modern amenities. The hotel also has a spa, a garden, and a terrace with a view of Siena.
- Palazzo di Valli: This is a charming hotel located in a 16th-century villa on a hill overlooking Siena. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, with original frescoes and wooden beams. The hotel also has a lovely garden with olive trees and roses.
- Hotel Italia: This is a budget-friendly hotel located near the train station and within walking distance from the city center. The rooms are clean and bright, with free Wi-Fi and air conditioning. The hotel also offers a free breakfast buffet and bike rental.
Where to eat in Siena
Siena is famous for its cuisine, which is based on local ingredients and traditional recipes. Some of the specialties you should try are:
- Pici: These are thick hand-rolled pasta noodles, usually served with tomato sauce, cheese, or meat ragu.
- Ribollita: This is a hearty soup made with bread, beans, kale, and other vegetables. It is perfect for cold days.
- Panforte: This is a dense cake made with honey, nuts, dried fruits, and spices. It is often eaten during Christmas time.
- Cantucci: These are crunchy almond biscuits that are dipped in Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine.
Some of the best places to enjoy these dishes are:
- La Taverna di San Giuseppe: This is a cozy restaurant located in an ancient cellar near Piazza del Campo. It serves authentic Tuscan dishes with fresh ingredients and homemade pasta. The wine list is extensive and the service is friendly.
- Antica Salumeria Salvini: This is a deli shop and restaurant located near the cathedral. It offers a variety of cured meats, cheeses, salads, and sandwiches. You can also buy some products to take home or as souvenirs.
- Gelateria Il Masgalano: This is a gelato shop located near Piazza del Campo. It offers a wide range of flavors, made with natural ingredients and no artificial colors or preservatives. The gelato is creamy and delicious, and the portions are generous.
I hope this guide has inspired you to visit Siena, Italy, a city that will enchant you with its history, art, and culture. Have you been to Siena before? What did you like the most? Let me know in the comments below!
