Siena

Written by Alexander Kopp, Marika Maslanka
03/09/2025
Charming aerial view of Siena's historic rooftops under the summer sun in Tuscany, Italy.
Siegfried Poepperl, Pexels

Siena is a beautifully preserved medieval city nestled in the heart of Tuscany, offering a captivating window into Italy's historical and cultural past. Its iconic Gothic architecture, particularly around the UNESCO World Heritage historic center, makes for an authentic Italian experience, often feeling less crowded than larger Tuscan cities.

The fan-shaped Piazza del Campo serves as Siena's central and most vibrant hub, bustling with activity day and night. As a university town, Siena maintains a lively evening atmosphere, offering various bars and restaurants in and around the piazza for socializing. Exploring the city's winding medieval streets in the evenings, when day-trippers have departed, reveals a quieter yet equally engaging local side. Additionally, wine tasting tours in the surrounding Chianti region provide opportunities for social interaction while experiencing the renowned local viticulture.

Top 5 Things to do in Siena

Experiences in Siena center around exploring its iconic medieval landmarks, delving into rich artistic and historical collections, and savoring the culinary traditions of the surrounding Tuscan countryside.

1. Wander through Piazza del Campo

Stepping into the iconic Piazza del Campo, the city's main public space, is like walking onto a stage of history. Its unique shell shape, paved with red brick, creates an open-air arena. This is where the famous Palio horse race takes place. I find myself simply sitting, watching local life unfold, and admiring the surrounding medieval buildings, including the Fonte Gaia, a beautifully sculpted fountain.

Cost: Free to enter and explore.

Transport: The Piazza del Campo is the central hub of Siena and easily accessible on foot from any point within the historic center.

2. Explore Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) Complex

Visiting the Siena Cathedral feels like uncovering a treasure chest of Gothic and Romanesque artistry. The striking facade, intricate marble floor (often uncovered from late June to mid-October), and masterpieces by artists like Michelangelo and Donatello within the Piccolomini Library are truly captivating. Ascending to the 'Gate of Heaven' offers unique aerial views of the nave and the city beyond, providing a different perspective of its grandeur. I typically allocate a few hours to appreciate the various components of this magnificent complex, including the Baptistery and Crypt.

Cost: Entrance to the Cathedral and Piccolomini Library costs approximately €9.50 (around €10 when the floor is uncovered). An 'Opa Si Pass', covering all sites of the complex (Cathedral, Library, Crypt, Baptistery, Museum, Panorama of the Unfinished Façade), costs around €18 (around €18 when the floor is uncovered) and is valid for 3 days. The 'Porta del Cielo' pass, which includes a guided tour of the cathedral roof, costs approximately €23. Booking online in advance is highly recommended to save time and skip potential queues.

Transport: The Siena Cathedral is located in the heart of the city, a short walk from Piazza del Campo. No additional transport is needed within the historic center.

3. Climb Torre del Mangia

For breathtaking panoramic views of Siena and the rolling Tuscan countryside, I make my way up the Torre del Mangia. This impressive medieval tower, adjacent to the Palazzo Pubblico, involves a climb of over 300 steps. The effort is immensely rewarding, offering an unparalleled vantage point over Piazza del Campo and the city's rooftops. It's a popular spot, so preparing for crowds and potentially a wait is advisable.

Cost: Tickets to climb the Torre del Mangia cost €10. A combined ticket for the Civic Museum and Torre del Mangia is €15. Family tickets are also available. Tickets must be purchased on-site on the day of the visit, as advance booking is not possible. The tower may close in adverse weather conditions.

Transport: Located directly on Piazza del Campo, the tower is within walking distance of all central Siena attractions.

4. Visit the Museo Civico in Palazzo Pubblico

Within the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico, which gracefully overlooks Piazza del Campo, I delve into the Civic Museum. This museum is a repository of Sienese art and history, showcasing masterpieces like Simone Martini's 'Maestà' and Ambrogio Lorenzetti's 'Allegory of Good and Bad Government'. The frescoes offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval Sienese society and governance. While the 'Sala della Pace', home to the Good Government frescoes, may occasionally be closed for restoration, the other chambers still provide a rich cultural experience.

Cost: Entrance to the Civic Museum costs around €6.00 (reduced tickets at €4.50). Combined tickets that include the Torre del Mangia and Santa Maria della Scala are also available, offering savings if visiting multiple sites. Booking online is recommended to ensure entry.

Transport: The Civic Museum is located within the Palazzo Pubblico on Piazza del Campo, easily accessible on foot.

5. Indulge in a Chianti Wine Tasting Tour

To truly experience the Tuscan landscape, I recommend a day trip to the Chianti region, renowned for its picturesque vineyards and world-class wines. These tours often include visits to local wineries, where one can stroll through vineyards, explore cellars, and participate in guided tastings of various Chianti wines, often paired with local olive oils and regional snacks. It's a relaxing way to enjoy the beautiful countryside and learn about the region's viticulture from passionate producers.

Cost: Group tours from Siena typically range from €75 to €120 per person, often including transport and tastings. Private tours can start from €159-€200 per person, depending on group size. It is advisable to book these tours in advance.

Transport: As this activity is outside Siena's historic center, it requires transport. Most wine tours offer pick-up from central Siena or a designated meeting point. For self-guided visits, renting a car is an option, though driving after wine tasting is not recommended. Public transport options to specific wineries might be limited, making a tour a convenient choice.

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