Best Things To Do in Siena, Italy

Things to do in Siena, Italy

Siena is a small and beautiful historical city in the famous region of Tuscany. We visited twice over the years, and its filmic look easily makes it one of our favorites! Especially when the soft light of sunset shines onto the countless terracotta buildings, it’s stunning.

1. Piazza del Campo

Piazza del Campo is the main square in UNESCO Siena, known fondly by the locals as Il Campo (meaning ‘field’ in Italian). We quickly saw why, as the shell-shaped square is lined by beautiful old buildings. It’s a great place to people-watch, but you can also discover:

• Torre del Mangia
• Palazzo Publico
• The Fountain of Gaia (at the center, and a great meeting point for locals!)

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2. Cathedral Siena (Siena Duomo)

The Cathedral of Siena is one of the most impressive sights and a top thing to do in Siena. The massive Gothic building is built entirely out of white and pink marble. We were speechless when we first saw it.

The interior is just as gorgeous, with some of the most detailed frescoes across the ceilings and walls. Entrance: 9-16 EUR, depending on what you want to visit inside.

3. Battistero di San Giovanni

Battistero di San Giovanni sits at the back of the Cathedral on a lower level, accessed by steps. This small church is much quieter; we spent half an hour escaping the heat on a hot late-summer day.

Look out for its incredible frescoes, detailed decoration, and famous hexagonal baptismal font. Open: May-Nov, 10.30 AM – 6 PM (Sunday, 1.30 – 6 PM). Winter hours, 10.30 AM – 5.30 PM.

4. Palazzo Pubblico – Top Thing to do in Siena!

The Palazzo Pubblico is a stunning palace on the Piazza del Campo. Built in the 13th century, this building was once the seat of the republican government. Every room inside has intricate decorations, paintings, and frescoes, which can be seen on a guided tour. 

However, the adjoining tower, Torre del Mangia, is the real icon of Sienna. At 88 meters tall, you can spot it from miles away. If you want, you can snake your way up the 400 steps to the top. From here, there’s a bird’s-eye view of the city and the surrounding Tuscan countryside. We really enjoyed this top thing to do in Siena!

5. Church of San Domenico

Even though the Cathedral steals the show, the church of San Domenico was a surprise for us. It’s really unique, with an unusual mix of styles – almost like bits were added over the years.

However, the best part is its hilltop location. We had incredible views from here of the orange-tiled roofs and terracotta buildings of Siena. Seeing the traditional Italian building, surrounded by Cypress trees, was a highlight on our Tuscany road trip.

6. Elsa Trail and Waterfall

The Elsa Trail is a beautiful natural area just a 30-minute drive from Siena. Away from the bustling city streets, the walking path winds along milky-blue pools and waterfalls. We packed a picnic to bring with us, jumped in the car, and drove through the gorgeous Tuscan landscapes to enjoy a refreshing swim here.

Getting there without a car: Take a public bus from the center of Siena (number 130 or 131).  

7. Visit San Gimignano from Siena

Close to the Elsa Trail and Waterfall lies San Gimignano, a town with the remarkable nickname of ‘Manhattan of the Middle Ages’. This is because of the large number of residential towers. In fact, it was once a status symbol, having families try to outbuild one another. The higher, the better! Getting there: 1h 15 min drive.

8. A Day Trip to Pienza and Montepulciano

Montepulciano and Pienza are two of our favorite towns in southern Tuscany. The first is a small medieval place with some incredible restaurants. The second lies atop a hill and is famed as the origin of pecorino cheese – yum! Both are very different from one another, but make a great day trip from Siena.

Getting there: Both towns are about a 1-hour drive from Siena (1.5h by public transport).

How to Visit Siena in Italy

We flew into Florence, but Pisa is another airport near Siena.

In Italy, we usually rent a car, which we think is the best way to explore Tuscany. From either city, it’s 1.5 hours to Siena. Note: No cars are allowed in the center (we parked in this free parking spot).

Alternatively:

• Hop on a train from Florence: 1.5 hours to Siena. (Get your tickets online)
• If you’re visiting from Rome or Milan, you’ll have to change trains in Florence.

Getting Around

Siena is a small and walkable city. The historical center is car-free, so we took the time to wander the tiny streets and find fantastic wine bars, beautiful townhouses, and medieval gems. But you can also do as the Italians do and rent a Vespa!

Where to Stay

We stayed in the historic center of Siena, within walking distance of all the things to do. However, if you have a car, it’s easier to stay outside this area. Many people choose to stay on a farm in the Tuscan countryside instead, venturing into Siena for a day trip. 

Our favorite hotels in Siena 😴

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Ca' Bianca Tuscany Relais

Siena

Residenza d'Epoca Le Aquile

Siena

B&B Alle Due Porte

Siena

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Best Time to Visit Siena, Italy

We were here at the end of September, when the streets are quieter, prices are lower, but temperatures are still warm enough to explore.

• Peak months: June-August, when it’s hot, and the small city gets busy with visitors. There’s a great atmosphere, though!
• Best time: Stay the night to witness the early-morning mist around the old buildings.

Best Cafes and Restaurants

The food in Siena is so good! We loved trying local delicacies (paired with Tuscan wine), such as truffles, porcini mushrooms, and the typical almond cookie of Siena. Head to a cozy trattoria and enjoy the local pasta, Pici (made with flour and water), and a delicious homemade tomato-and-garlic sauce.

Some of our favorite restaurants were: