Top Things To Do In Siena, Italy: Explore Historic Sites, Culture & Cuisine
Explore Siena’s best attractions. Explore cultural events, historic structures, and local cuisine. Start planning your memorable vacation.
Siena is a Tuscan gem we can’t wait to show you! Walk through small cobblestone pathways in this old city to visit the past.
Siena attracts us with its magnificent Duomo façade and stunning interiors and the vibrant Piazza del Campo, where the Palio horse race is place. Don’t forget Tuscan food like ribollita soup and Chianti wine.
I love Siena’s lovely blend of culture, history, and taste! It’s never dull here, whether you’re perusing the Museo Civico’s frescoes or ascending the Torre del Mangia for city vistas.
Visit a trattoria for Siena’s famous panforte, a nutty dessert. Siena’s charm will make you adore Tuscany more every time you visit. Siena awaits—pack your walking shoes and hunger!
Top Things To Do In Siena, Italy: Explore Historic Sites, Culture & Cuisine
Why Siena, Italy is a Hidden Gem
What makes Siena, Italy, a hidden gem? It seems like entering a live fantasy! Imagine walking through the beautiful Piazza del Campo, where medieval horse races, the Palio, still captivate audiences.
We must see Siena Cathedral, whose beautiful embellishments will make you gasp (I did!). Speaking about food, the pici spaghetti is to die for!
But there’s more than food and scenery! Siena’s Contrade neighborhoods are active mini-communities with distinct customs and rivalries. I adore how each area has its own flags, fountains, and festivals, creating Siena a vibrant cultural patchwork.
Legend has it Siena was established by Remus’ son Senius. That’s why the she-wolf sign is everywhere it’s like walking through Roman mythology!
Must-See Attractions and Things to Do in Siena, Italy
1. La Torre del Mangia
When in Siena, we must see La Torre del Mangia! It is the third-highest antique tower in Italy at 87 meters and a proud icon of Tuscany. This 1325–1348 structure is history we can climb!
Ascending its 400 stairs is an excursion that reveals Siena’s past. We get great city views from the summit. The Rocca-topped brick building displays Siena’s black and white travertine and dark stone tones.
We can nearly hear medieval city sounds from up here! If our calves are burning, remember that every step gets us closer to Siena’s splendor from above.
2. Santa Maria della Scala
I felt like I had been transported back in time when I entered Santa Maria della Scala! The huge structure across from Siena’s cathedral is a must-see. It was one of Europe’s earliest hospitals. This facility provided for travelers, the impoverished, and abandoned children.
Its halls hold Etruscan, Roman, medieval, and Renaissance art from ages past. You can almost sense the old walls’ tales. Explore creepy underground passages and stunning murals telling Siena’s stories. A fresh narrative opens around every corner in this living museum.
3. Palazzo Pubblico
Our first impression of Siena is Palazzo Pubblico, the city’s crown treasure! This Gothic town hall, built in the early 1300s, continues to captivate us with its history.
Perhaps drawn by its magnetic pull, the entire Piazza del Campo leans toward it. Who wouldn’t want to be Siena’s Signoria for a day? We can practically hear ancient discussions that created the city as we walk through its halls.
The Torre del Mangia tower invites us to ascend its stairs for a panoramic perspective of Siena. It seems like a live museum, not simply a historical site.
4. Siena Cathedral
The magnificent Siena Cathedral must be seen! This Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece in Siena’s center has centuries of history.
I was amazed by the Pisano family’s elaborate façade. Nicola and Giovanni left their stamp here! The inside is stunning, with marble flooring and stunning artwork.
I discovered the Cathedral’s close links to Pope Alexander III and its replacement of a 9th-century Virgin Mary church as we investigated.
Copper was originally the dome’s “apple” And it shines today! Get free entry for kids under 6 when traveling! Otherwise, the admission cost is cheap at 5–9 USD.
5. Basilica of San Domenico
We were amazed by the Basilica of San Domenico‘s grandeur and hilltop location upon arrival. Though simple, the exterior has a strange allure that draws us in.
Walking around to the left side of the cathedral was like opening a secret entry, odd, right? The basilica’s Cistercian-Gothic interior is calm and intriguing. We loved the legends of St. Catherine of Siena, whose remains are here. It feels like her spirit is still around.
The basilica boldly stands after centuries of fires, earthquakes, and military invasions, demonstrating Siena’s perseverance. From the stained glass to the lofty arches, every element evokes the past. Who doesn’t enjoy a location with a compelling past?
6. Piazza del Campo
Piazza del Campo! Not your typical public square. When we stroll upon its red brick floor, we want to sit and absorb it up no seats needed!
I relaxed around the borders in Siena’s old buildings’ pleasant shadow. The square’s slight slope makes it a great amphitheater for impromptu concerts or just watching the throng.
Best part? Cafés and stores along the perimeter give infinite opportunities to stop, sip, and browse. We marvel at the gorgeous buildings as we stroll.
The excitement is contagious whether we’re exploring, dining, or relaxing. This room has stories in every corner, ready to be discovered. It’s Siena’s bustling, historic, and lovely heart!
7. The Walls of Siena
Siena’s walls seem like a timeless hug! As we walk about, it’s easy to envisage life within these old walls, erected gradually from the early Middle Ages until the 16th century.
You can almost see the entire city from here! Do you realize these walls contain several rings, like layers of a narrative waiting to be told? As we go, we can see Siena’s progress and resilience in each building phase.
Though less recognized than Piazza del Campo or the Duomo, these walls give a calmer, more personal link to Siena’s medieval soul. Take a break, touch the ancient stone, and sense history. It’s great for creative photographs too!
8. Join a Wine Tasting Tour
We link Siena with wine! I loved my guided wine tour, which you shouldn’t miss. From Florence, we took the T1.3 tram to Villa Costanza and began our Tuscan journey!
Starting in Pisa! The Leaning Tower and Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral were amazing to see. We had a Tuscan feast with local wine in Chianti after taking all the images.
When we thought the day couldn’t get much better, we ended at San Gimignano’s ancient streets. Saffron fields and vineyards made postcard-perfect vistas. I can’t wait to return!
9. See the Head and Finger of Saint Catherine
Entering Basilica San Domenico is spine-tingling. You seldom see a saint’s mummified head, let alone her right thumb! Seeing Saint Catherine of Siena‘s relics up close is weird, yet awe-inspiring.
The elaborate reliquary enhances this creepy image. You can practically see Catherine’s dedication as a young girl seeing Jesus, rejecting her family’s wishes, and joining the nunnery. And that odd wedding ring crafted from baby Jesus’ holy foreskin? This is legendary!
We can’t help but think of her passion and mysticism while we soak in the environment. Her remains are mostly in Rome and her foot is purportedly in Venice, so we’ve only found part of a great, epic narrative.
10. National Art Gallery in Siena
Entering Siena’s National Art Gallery was like reliving history! Siena’s “golden age,” from the 13th to 16th century, produced a wealth of masterpieces. I was amazed as we traced Sienese art’s progression through the halls.
Duccio’s captivating artwork and Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s vivid descriptions were like encountering ancient stories. The museum is in the charming Buonsignori and Brigidi Palaces, which enhanced our visit.
Each chamber has vibrant murals with captivating storylines. Favorite part? Getting immersed in Simone Martini’s expressive brushstrokes and Sassetta’s vibrant religious sceneries.
Our 8.70 USD tickets were worth every penny with so much to see! The low prices make it ideal for history aficionados on a budget. You must see this in Siena!
11. Go on a Retail Therapy at Markets in Siena
Visit Siena’s bustling markets for some shopping therapy! Picture this: We’re walking past colorful, full-of-goodies booths.
Visit La Lizza’s Wednesday market—you’ll feel like a native in no time. Every nook has treasures, from trendy apparel to handcrafted shoes, stylish purses, and fresh fruits and flowers. We may even find great prices on household goods or funny trinkets to remember our Siena vacation.
The smells of local delicacies, merchants’ conversation, and bargain seekers’ hustling will surround us as we explore.
Finding the right stuff while socializing with locals is Siena’s soul! Every piece has a story, from handcrafted ceramics to elegant leather accessories. Find a unique souvenir to remember this amazing Siena market day.
Where to Eat in Siena
La Bianca – Borgo San Luigi Restaurant
We were surprised to find La Bianca – Borgo San Luigi Restaurant, and it was delicious! It was like finding a hidden gem in Siena’s countryside. Our service was kind and attentive, making us feel special.
We had the set Tuscan lunch and enjoyed its unusual tastes. I didn’t know what to anticipate, but each taste was better than the last.
The Tavern of San Giuseppe
I was immediately drawn to the homey, rustic decor with wooden beams and pleasant lighting of The Tavern of San Giuseppe. The renowned Florentine Steak for two was our big order.
I was fascinated when the server said it would be rare but “no blood,” and it was delicate and flavorful. The truffle pasta was the star. Seeing the chef chop tons of fresh black truffles at our table was amazing!
Where to stay in Siena
Hotel Palazzo di Valli
I recommend Hotel Palazzo di Valli for a wonderful Siena stay! An elegant 18th-century mansion on a hill 400 meters from Siena’s historic center.
Our 12-minute stroll to the city center puts us among Siena’s vibrant piazzas and historic attractions.
Hotel Duomo
It was like entering a 12th-century Siena palace at Hotel Duomo! Siena Cathedral and Piazza del Campo are mere steps apart, making the setting ideal.
The apartments’ mix of contemporary amenities and ancient beauty made us feel at home and connected to Siena.
Final Thoughts
Siena is the center of Tuscany, with its rich history, art, and delicious food. You may climb La Torre del Mangia for panoramic views and see Saint Catherine’s relics in this medieval city. Siena’s beauty comes from its cobblestone alleyways, small markets, and inviting trattorias offering real Tuscan food. Take your walking shoes and adventure spirit to Siena!
FAQs
What is Siena in Italy famous for?
The Palio, the legendary horse race between the ten participating neighborhoods to win the Palio, a banner painted by a new artist each time chosen by Siena, is a symbol of the city.
What food is Siena, Italy known for?
Sienese cuisine uses natural ingredients such as beans and meats to create a distinct flavor. Pici pasta and panforte cake are among Siena’s most popular meals.
