Siena is a small city with a population of ~50k inhabitants. It was one of the most important cities in medieval Europe, and its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which contains several buildings from the 13th and 14th centuries. Siena hosts the world's oldest bank, and its university is one of the most ancient in the world.
Suggested restaurants in Siena
- Osteria La Sosta di Violante
- Antica Trattoria Papei
- La Taverna del Capitano
Places to visit in Siena
Please see the social events page if you are interested in the guided tour of the city!
- Piazza del Campo: This iconic, shell-shaped square is the heart of Siena and the site of the famous Palio horse race. Surrounded by historic buildings, it's the perfect spot to soak in the city's medieval atmosphere.
- Palazzo Pubblico and Civic Museum: Located in Piazza del Campo, the Palazzo Pubblico is the city town hall of Siena. Inside you can find beautiful frescoes depicting civic life. The Civic Museum is inside and houses important works of Sienese art. You can find more info on the official Civic Museum website: https://museocivico.comune.siena.it/
- Torre del Mangia: The Torre del Mangia is an 88-meter medieval tower in Siena's Piazza del Campo. Built in the 14th century, it offers breathtaking views of the city and the Tuscan countryside. Additional information about visits can be found at: https://www.comune.siena.it/luogo/torre-del-mangia.
- Siena Cathedral (Duomo): The Duomo (Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta) is a Gothic masterpiece and one of Italy’s most beautiful cathedrals. Built between the 13th and 14th centuries, the striking black and white striped façade, made from marble, is a stunning sight. Inside, the Duomo is equally breathtaking. The nave is adorned with alternating bands of black and white marble, while the intricate mosaic floors depict biblical scenes and historical events. Unfortunately, in this period of time the floor is covered to prevent damage. It gets uncovered only at certain times of the year (generally in summer). More info on the visit of the Duomo and its associated museum can be found at: https://operaduomo.siena.it/museo-dellopera/
- Fortezza Medicea: Built in the 16th century by the Medici family, the Fortezza Medicea is a massive brick fortress located just outside the city center. Originally constructed to assert Medici control over Siena, it now serves as a peaceful public space. Visitors can walk along its ramparts for stunning views of the city and Tuscan countryside, or enjoy concerts and events held within its historic walls.
Places to visit near Siena
If you plan to spend the weekend in Siena, there are many places that are worth visiting, and that can be easily reached by car in less than 2hrs.
- Monteriggioni: A medieval walled village perched on a hill in Tuscany, Monteriggioni is famous for its intact fortress and 13th-century walls. Its picturesque streets and historic charm make it feel like stepping back in time. It is located ~20min by car from Siena.
- Pienza: A Renaissance gem in Tuscany, Pienza is known for its harmonious urban design, envisioned by Pope Pius II. The town offers beautiful views of the Val d'Orcia and is famous for its Pecorino cheese. It is located ~1h by car from Siena.
- Val d'Orcia: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Val d'Orcia is a stunning landscape of rolling hills, cypress trees, and medieval villages in Tuscany. Its idyllic beauty has inspired many Renaissance paintings. It is located ~1h by car from Siena.
- San Gimignano: Renowned for its medieval towers, San Gimignano is a UNESCO-listed hill town in Tuscany. Often called the "Medieval Manhattan," it offers spectacular views, historical sites, and charming piazzas. It is located ~40min by car from Siena.
- Montalcino: A hilltop town in Tuscany, Montalcino is famed for its Brunello wine. Its fortress and winding streets provide panoramic views of vineyards and the Tuscan countryside, making it a wine lover’s paradise. It is located ~1h by car from Siena.
Events: Lucca Comics and Games 2024
Lucca Comics & Games is an annual comic book and gaming convention in Lucca (~2hrs by car, 3hrs by train from Siena) traditionally held at the end of October, in conjunction with All Saints' Day. It is the largest comics festival in Europe, and the second biggest in the world after the Comiket.
Set within Lucca’s medieval walls, it features interactive exhibits, gaming tournaments, cosplay parades, and guest panels with creators from the comic and gaming industries. The festival transforms the city’s historic streets into a colorful fantasy world, where fans of all ages gather to share their passion for pop culture. It’s a must-visit for comic and gaming enthusiasts!
In 2022 the festival sold 319,926 tickets, beating the record established in 2016, when it had attracted 270,000 attendees. On average, the daily attendance is of ~50.000 persons.
Tickets can be purchased online in advance or on the same day in Lucca at the official ticket offices scattered around the city. More info on the event can be found here: https://www.luccacomicsandgames.com/it/2024/home/
If you plan to attend the Lucca Comics, a daily trip from Siena is quite difficult. We advise you to book a hotel in Lucca or some towns nearby (Montecatini, Pistoia, Viareggio, Prato), that can be easily reached by train in <1h. In case you want to do it, you should book your stay AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Due to the huge attendance at this event, hotel rooms sell out very quickly.
