Things to Do in Siena

About Siena

Siena emerges from the Tuscan hills like a medieval dream frozen in amber, its burnt-orange towers and Gothic spires piercing an endless azure sky. Walking through its ancient streets feels like stepping into a living manuscript, where every weathered stone whispers tales of merchants, pilgrims, and painters who shaped Renaissance Italy. The heart-shaped Piazza del Campo draws visitors into its embrace, a shell-shaped masterpiece where the thunderous Palio horse race has echoed for centuries. Here, shadows dance across terracotta facades while church bells mark time as they have for nearly a millennium. Siena's magic lies not in grand monuments but in intimate moments: savoring ribollita in a candlelit osteria, discovering hidden chapels adorned with Duccio masterpieces, or simply getting wonderfully lost in narrow medieval alleys where laundry flutters like prayer flags above your head.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Take the TIEMME bus from Florence (1.5 hours, €8) rather than trains, which require transfers. Within Siena's historic center, walking is essential as most areas are car-free. Buy a €1.50 city bus pass for steep climbs to outlying areas.

Money: Many small trattorias and shops accept cash only. Withdraw euros from Banca Monte dei Paschi ATMs (local bank with lowest fees). Budget €35-45 daily for mid-range dining. Tipping 10% is appreciated but not mandatory.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly when entering churches (cover shoulders/knees). Don't sit on Piazza del Campo's brick pavement during events. Learn your contrada (neighborhood) if staying overnight—locals take these medieval districts seriously and with great pride.

Food Safety: Seek restaurants where locals dine, especially near universities. Try pici pasta (hand-rolled local specialty) and panforte dessert. Avoid tourist menus near major sights. Tap water is safe and restaurants provide it free upon request.

When to Visit

Spring (April-May) offers ideal weather with temperatures of 15-22°C and minimal rainfall (50mm monthly), though accommodation prices increase 20-30% above winter rates. The famous Palio horse race occurs July 2nd and August 16th, creating electric atmosphere but driving prices up 60-80% with mandatory minimum stays. Summer (June-August) brings crowds and heat reaching 30°C, with July being particularly busy and expensive. September-October provides exceptional value with warm days (18-25°C), harvest season charm, and 25% lower prices than peak summer. Winter (November-March) sees temperatures of 5-12°C with higher rainfall (70-80mm monthly), but offers authentic local life and bargain accommodation rates 40-50% below peak season. Culture enthusiasts should visit during shoulder seasons when museums are less crowded and restaurants offer seasonal specialties. Photography lovers will find golden hour magic year-round, though spring and fall provide the most dramatic skies. Budget travelers benefit most from January-March visits, while luxury seekers should consider May or September for perfect weather without summer's intensity.