Last Updated on December 28, 2024
Time to talk about the magical Siena and its attractions, a medieval treasure city of Tuscany that will steal your heart! Siena’s attractions are unique and the city is perfect for exploring on foot – just like I did! You can visit Siena in one day, although it’s worth staying longer.
I know what you’re thinking – “Just another tourist city in Tuscany?” But trust me, Siena is something special, with its own unique identity and history that will enchant you.
Siena at a Glance
Before we dive into the details and attractions of Siena, let’s clarify a few things about this wonderful Tuscan cit
- It’s a medieval city with perfectly preserved architecture and its historic center is a UNESCO monument
- It’s famous for the Palio, the renowned horse race that takes place twice a year (July 2 and August 16) and transforms the city into a medieval spectacle
- It’s walkable, although with plenty of ups and downs, so wear comfortable shoes
- The best time to explore is early morning or late afternoon when most tourists have left. My advice is to stay within the old town to feel the authentic atmosphere
Top things to do in Siena, Italy
Here are my favorite things to do in Siena. As always, in my blog, I only recommend attractions and activities that I have personally experienced and tested. I know that they might not be many, but I try to keep my blog honest with its readers – you won’t be able to see 30 or 40 attractions on a day trip.
#1. Piazza del Campo
The most impressive attraction in Siena is the famous Piazza del Campo! Entering this medieval square, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. This square isn’t just the city center – it’s been the heart of Siena since the 12th century!
The most striking feature is its unique shell-like shape. This particular architecture isn’t random – the square is divided into nine sections, symbolizing the “Council of Nine” that governed Siena during its golden age.
This is where the famous Palio takes place, the historic horse race that transforms the square into an exciting arena twice a year. Imagine 60,000 spectators standing in the shell-shaped square, watching the riders race around!
Things to know before visiting Piazza del Campo:
- Best visiting time: Early morning for photos without crowds, or sunset for a magical atmosphere
- Photography: Best angle for photos is from the Palazzo Pubblico steps
- Comfort: Sit on the pavement!! I did it was super fun! The square’s slope creates a natural amphitheater
- During Palio (the horse race): Come at least 5 hours early to find a spot in the square
- Restaurants: Restaurants around the square are expensive – for more authentic options, explore the surrounding alleys
My Pretty Travels Tip: If you want to see the Palio, book a room with a view of the square at least a year in advance! Alternatively, you can book a spot on one of the balconies around the square, but prices are quite steep (from €350 and up).
Don’t miss having an ice cream or coffee at the historic cafes in the square. Bar Il Palio offers a great view of the square and is ideal for observing daily city life. Expensive yes, but the experience is worth it!
#2. Siena’s Cathedral (Duomo)
The Siena Cathedral is one of the most impressive examples of Italian Gothic architecture. With its distinctive facade of white and green-black marble (Siena’s colors), the Duomo will take your breath away!
Although entrance requires payment (unusual for Italian churches), the Opa Si Pass is worth every cent of it. The combined ticket gives you access to a whole treasure trove of art and history:
What the Opa Si Pass includes:
- Duomo (Cathedral): Admire the amazing marble floor with 56 scenes, considered “the most beautiful, large and elaborate floor ever made”
- Libreria Piccolomini: A jewel-box room with impressive Pinturicchio frescoes depicting Pope Pius II’s life
- Museo dell’Opera: Houses masterpieces like Duccio’s famous “Maestà”
- Crypt: Discovered in 1999 with unique 13th-century frescoes
- Baptistery of San Giovanni: The baptistery with Donatello’s impressive font
- Facciatone: The unfinished wall intended for the cathedral’s expansion, offering the best views of the city
My Pretty Travels Tip: Buy your ticket online from here in advance to avoid queues. The ticket is valid for 3 days from first use, so you can enjoy the attractions at your leisure!
Practical tips for your visit:
- Visit duration: Allow at least 2-3 hours to see all spaces comfortably
- Peak hours: Avoid 11:00-15:00, which are the busiest
- Dress code: Appropriate dress required (covered shoulders and knees)
- Facciatone: The climb has 131 steps and narrow stairs – not recommended for claustrophobics
- Photography: Allowed without flash in most areas
#3. Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia
The impressive Palazzo Pubblico (Public Palace) has dominated the southern side of Piazza del Campo since the 13th century. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture isn’t just a museum – it’s a living piece of Siena’s history that still houses the city hall!
The impressive Palazzo Pubblico (Public Palace) has dominated the southern side of Piazza del Campo since the 13th century. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture isn’t just a museum – it’s a living piece of Siena’s history that still houses the city hall!
Today, most of it functions as the Museo Civico, a museum hosting some of the city’s most important treasures. The highlight is the famous fresco “The Allegory of Good and Bad Government” by Ambrogio Lorenzetti – a masterpiece showing the effects of good and bad administration on the city. Although the museum isn’t huge, each room holds surprises:
- Sala del Mappamondo: With the impressive Maestà fresco by Simone Martini
- Sala della Pace: Where Lorenzetti’s famous frescoes are located
- Sala del Risorgimento: Dedicated to Italian unification
The Torre del Mangia, the palace’s iconic tower, rises to 88 meters and is one of Italy’s tallest medieval towers. It got its name from its first keeper, Giovanni di Balduccio, known as “Mangiaguadagni” (the one who eats his earnings) due to his tendency to spend all his salary on food!
Before starting the climb, know that:
- Closed in case of rain or strong wind for safety reasons
- 400 steps await you (not 300!)
- Only 25 people are allowed at the top at once
- You cannot purchase the tickets in advance for the tower unfortunately
- Best times for fewer crowds: early morning or late afternoon
The view from the top is magical – you’ll see all of Siena and the Tuscan countryside spread before you. If you can’t make it up (as happened to me due to the weather), don’t be disappointed! There are alternative spots for panoramic views, like the garden of San Domenico church or the Duomo Nuovo terrace.
#4. Enjoy the culinary Experiences in Siena
Siena’s cuisine is a treasure trove of Tuscan flavors. Here are my best suggestions for where to eat and what to try:
Traditional Dishes: Start your culinary journey with Pici, Siena’s characteristic thick, handmade pasta. Visit Osteria Le Logge or Antica Drogheria Manganelli for authentic flavors. Try pici all’aglione (with garlic sauce) or pici cacio e pepe (with cheese and pepper). Don’t miss trying the famous Bistecca alla Fiorentina at Osteria del Gatto.
Local Cured Meats and Cheeses: The region is famous for its excellent cured meats. Tuscan prosciutto and finocchiona salami (with fennel) are must-tries. At La Prosciutteria you’ll find excellent varieties of local cheeses and cured meats, perfect to accompany local Chianti wine.
Sweets and Cheese Delicacies: Ricciarelli (almond cookies) and Panforte (traditional sweet with nuts and spices) are Siena’s most famous sweets. Visit historic Pasticceria Bini or Nannini, where they’ve been making these treats since the 18th century! Don’t forget to try cavallucci, traditional Christmas cookies now served year-round.
My Pretty Travels Tip: Most restaurants near Piazza del Campo are expensive and touristy. For more authentic flavors and better prices, walk the narrow streets of Contrada della Chiocciola.
Siena – Where to Stay
Regarding accommodation in Siena, I strongly recommend staying within the old town walls. Yes, it’s a bit more expensive than the suburbs, but the experience is irreplaceable!
Check out these deals from booking.com
Booking.comIdeally, find accommodation near Piazza del Campo or the cathedral. This way you can enjoy the magic of the medieval city early in the morning and late at night, when tourists have left. Imagine walking through Siena’s alleys under moonlight! You can find accommodations for every budget, from boutique hotels in historic palaces to charming B&Bs in medieval buildings.
Recommended areas for staying:
- Around Piazza del Campo – to be in the center of action
- Near the Duomo – for a quieter atmosphere but still central
- In the San Domenico area – for wonderful city views
My Pretty Travels Tip: If visiting Siena during the Palio, book your room at least 6 months in advance! Prices skyrocket and good accommodations disappear quickly.Cities to Visit After Siena
Siena is located in the heart of Tuscany, meaning you have many wonderful options for your next destination! See my best suggestions:
- Florence: Just 1 hour and 15 minutes by bus, Tuscany’s capital is an open-air museum with its imposing cathedral, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio bridge. You can easily take the bus from Siena’s central station.
- San Gimignano: Just 1 hour by bus, this medieval town is famous for its towers and Italy’s best gelato at Gelateria Dondoli. The view of Tuscan vineyards from its walls is magical.
- Perugia: About 2.5 hours from Siena by train (with a change in Chiusi-Chianciano Terme), this medieval city is Umbria’s capital. You can find find the best things to do in Perugia here.
- Lucca: About 2 hours by train, Lucca is one of Tuscany’s most charming cities. Surrounded by well-preserved Renaissance walls that have been converted into a pedestrian and cycling path, it’s perfect for biking! You can find what is there to do in Lucca in my article here
So, are you ready to explore the magic of Siena and Tuscany? Siena may be smaller than Florence, but it has an authenticity and charm that will steal your heart. And don’t forget – its location makes it an ideal base for exploring some of Tuscany’s most beautiful places!
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Siena
Absolutely! While many rush to Florence, Siena is something truly special. With its perfectly preserved medieval architecture, UNESCO-listed historic center, and unique shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, it’s a Tuscan gem that will steal your heart!
While you can see the main attractions in one day, I recommend staying at least 2 days. Trust me, you’ll want time to soak in the medieval atmosphere, especially in the early mornings and evenings when the tourist crowds are gone!
Yes! If you want to watch the Palio from a room or balcony overlooking Piazza del Campo, book at least a year in advance. Balcony spots start from €350, but the experience is unforgettable!
Yes, wear comfortable shoes! The historic center is perfect for walking, though there are plenty of hills and steps. Everything is within walking distance, but be prepared for some ups and downs!
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, which helps support this blog. All opinions are my own. Please verify details like prices, hours, and availability with official sources, as they may change over time.
