Step into Siena’s Medieval Heart
Visit Siena for its exceptionally intact medieval centre, where civic rituals and architecture remain part of everyday life.
The shell-shaped Piazza del Campo anchors the city: climb the Torre del Mangia for panoramic views, then step into the Duomo to see its black-and-white marble façade, Piccolomini Library and inlaid marble floors. Wander the narrow streets of each contrada to feel neighbourhood pride and find artisan workshops.
Eat simply and well—pici pasta, ribollita and panforte—paired with nearby Chianti and Montepulciano vintages. Museums like the Pinacoteca and Museo dell’Opera add depth between meals.
Plan around the Palio if you want the spectacle (2 July and 16 August) and buy tickets for major sites in advance. Siena also makes a practical base for Val d’Orcia and hill-town day trips.
Siena’s historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995, recognized for its remarkably intact Gothic urban fabric and city plan.
Squares, Duomos & Views
Begin in the city’s medieval heart and orient yourself quickly. Start at Piazza del Campo , then slow down to watch daily life in Il Campo . For context and surprising details, step inside the Opera della Metropolitana to see Duccio and climb for a panorama. If you prefer a guided introduction that stitches history to small discoveries, book a trip with Siena Experience Italian Hub . For visitors curious about darker chapters, the Museum of Torture Siena offers a stark, thoughtfully curated perspective. Practical tip: visit the square early for light and fewer crowds, then follow with a museum when the piazza fills.
The Palio is a bareback horse race of three laps around Piazza del Campo—about 1 km in total—run on 2 July and 16 August; even a riderless horse can win for its contrada.
Siena on the Table
Taste your way through Siena with a clear plan. Join the Siena Food Tour for a curated introduction to regional bites and the stories behind them. For a full dinner that highlights Tuscan cooking and an extensive wine list, book a table at Il Bargello . For intimate, homely cooking and attentive service, try La Vecchia Taverna di Bacco . If you prefer casual boards, Prètto Prosciutteria e Convivio serves generous platters and house wine. Start mornings with expertly pulled espresso and pastries at Torrefazione Fiorella . Tip: reserve evenings and arrive early for bar seating where you can watch preparation.
Siena Cathedral’s inlaid marble floor—56 narrative panels made between the 14th and 19th centuries—is usually kept covered for protection and unveiled to visitors only for a few weeks each year.
Boutiques, Galleries & Stays
Seek out small discoveries off the main axis. Find handcrafted chocolates and truffle spreads at Nino and Friends , and taste regional specialties amid historic aisles at Antica Drogheria Manganelli 1879 . For contemporary art encounters, visit Galleria d’Arte Il Bargello and Galleria Cesare Olmastroni . When you want to anchor your stay in period character with modern comfort, consider B&B-Residenza d’Epoca “Le Aquile” Siena . Practical note: galleries update frequently — check current exhibits before you go, and pick up edible souvenirs early in the day to avoid sold-out items.
Two classic Sienese sweets carry EU protection: Ricciarelli di Siena gained PGI status in 2010 and Panforte di Siena followed in 2013.