Siena

Italy, Europe

Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, captivates with its medieval architecture and rich history. Famous for the Palio horse race, held biannually in the stunning Piazza del Campo, Siena boasts attractions like the intricate Gothic Duomo and the historic city walls. Its charming streets are lined with quaint shops, cafes, and vibrant local culture. With delicious Tuscan cuisine and picturesque countryside, Siena offers an authentic Italian experience that keeps visitors returning for more.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Ampugnano

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Siena

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Palazzo Pubblico

Discover Siena's history in this medieval town hall.

No booking required
2

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste the Panforte

Indulge in Siena's famous spiced fruitcake.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Piazza del Campo

Siena's stunning main square, perfect for people-watching.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Siena Cathedral

A masterpiece of Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Climb Torre del Mangia

Climb for panoramic views of Siena and beyond.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Palio di Siena

Experience the thrilling horse race held twice yearly.

Booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Santa Maria della Scala

An ancient hospital turned museum with rich history.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Botanical Gardens

Relax in the beautiful, lush gardens of Siena.

No booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Enjoy the Siena Wine Tasting

Savor local wines in picturesque vineyards.

Booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Siena Market

Browse local produce and handmade goods.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-1 (#58 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Italian

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ragù alla Bolognese

Rich meat sauce from Bologna. (National dish)

Pizza Margherita

V

Classic pizza with tomato and mozzarella.

Risotto alla Milanese

V

Creamy risotto with saffron flavor.

Lasagna

Layered pasta with meat and cheese.

Tiramisu

V

Coffee-flavored dessert with mascarpone.

Phrases to learn

English

Italian

Hello

Ciao

(Chow)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Grazie

(Grah-tsee-eh)

Excuse me

Scusi

(Skoo-zee)

How much?

Quanto?

(Kwan-toh)