10 things to do (and see) in Siena
Siena is one of the best known and most visited cities in Tuscany. Its beauty and its artistic heritage make it one of the most popular destinations in the world. Here is a short (non-exhaustive) list of 10 things to do / see in Siena.
1) Piazza del Campo
Considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world, the main square of the city is famous for hosting the famous Palio and for its original shell shape. The most important public buildings, the Palazzo Pubblico, the Torre del Mangia and historic buildings overlook the square.
2) Torre del Mangia
The highest tower in the city, 88 meters from which you can admire the entire city of Siena and the surrounding hills. The Torre del Mangia is located in Piazza del Campo and reaches the same height as the bell tower of the Siena Cathedral to symbolize a balance between heavenly and earthly power. The bells of the tower traditionally ring during the most important moments of the city, namely the Palio, the inauguration of the university’s academic year, on August 15, April 25 and May 1.
3) The Cathedral
The Cathedral of Siena with its black and white facade is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy. In Italian Romanesque-Gothic style, it houses works of art of great value. To complete it, the 77-meter bell tower, also two-tone.
4) The Baptistery
The Baptistery of San Giovanni is located just behind the Duomo. Its unfinished facade reveals frescoed naves inside the building, the baptismal font in bronze and marble and a large collection of works of art by great Renaissance masters such as Lorenzo Ghiberti, Donatello and Giovanni di Turino.
5) Palazzo Pubblico
Center of city life, the Palazzo Pubblico dominates the Campo with the Torre del Mangia. Inside, don’t miss the Civic Museum of Siena. The courtyard of the Palace offers unique views of the tower and shows its Renaissance stylistic perfection.
6) Palazzo Salimbeni
Headquarters of the Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena, the building is located in the homonymous square flanked by the renowned Via Banchi di Sopra. In front of the palace stands the statue of Sallustio Bandini. An example of Sienese Gothic, the elegant building offers art collections from the bank and a historical archive of Monte dei Paschi.
7) Fortezza Medicea
Also known as Forte di Santa Barbara, the Medici fortress has now become a park very popular with the Sienese for sports, strolls or to host outdoor events. From the top of the fort it is possible to enjoy a unique view of the city and its beauties.
8) Sienese gastronomy
A trip to Siena cannot ignore a discovery of the gastronomic delights that the area offers. Pici, cured meats, truffles, sweets such as panforte, ricciarelli and cantuccini i i are some of the best known examples of Sienese cuisine. A wine tasting is not to be missed. The territory of Siena is known for one of the most important wine production in the world.
9) Streets of the center
The center of Siena, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is a tangle of medieval streets that open onto large squares. In the main streets you can savor the atmosphere of the past, shop in the many craft shops and be amazed by the unique views that the city can offer.
10) Trips out of town
In the surroundings of Siena, a few kilometers from the city, it is possible to come across wonderful villages and places, known all over the world. Therefore, a trip to San Gimignano, Monteriggioni or a visit to the cellars of the Sienese Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino is a must.
Practical advice:
Finally, some practical tips for organizing your trip to Siena.
How to get? Siena is located about 1h30 from Pisa Airport (reachable by train, with changes, or shuttle) and about 1 hour from Florence airport. If you arrive by train, the Siena station is located a few kilometers from the city center.
How to get around? The center is easily explored on foot. The entire central area is inaccessible to cars. To reach destinations outside the city the advice is to rent a car or rely on private transfers.
Where to sleep? For a 5-star holiday, the choice can only fall on the Grand Hotel Continental, the only 5-star hotel in Siena, right in the center to experience a royal holiday. For information: https://www.starhotelscollezione.com/it/i-nostri-hotel/grand-hotel-continental-siena/
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