Siena

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9 places on the map

Free things to do

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Take the bus from Florence: Direct coaches between Florence and Siena are often quicker than the train and drop you closer to the historic centre.
Ride the escalators up: Siena sits on steep hills; covered escalators link the train station and some car parks to the upper town, saving a hard climb.
Avoid driving in the ZTL: The historic centre is a limited traffic zone watched by cameras; park outside the walls to avoid fines that arrive months later.

Stay alert at the Palio: The Palio packs Piazza del Campo with huge crowds in summer heat; bring water, keep valuables close and know your exit route.
Watch your step: Steep, uneven stone streets get slippery when wet, so wear shoes with good grip, especially walking down from the Duomo.
Mind pickpockets in high season: Siena is very safe, but crowded spots like the Campo and Duomo queues attract bag thieves in summer.

Buy a combined Duomo pass: One ticket covers the cathedral, Piccolomini Library, crypt, baptistery and museum, cheaper than paying for each.
Picnic in the Campo: Locals sit on the sloping piazza with sandwiches and drinks; grab supplies from a deli and enjoy the view for free.
Eat outside the main square: Restaurants on Piazza del Campo charge for the view; a few streets away trattorias serve better food for less.

Prepare for hot summers: July and August are hot and sunny in the stone city; pack a hat, sunscreen and light clothes, and carry water.
Bring layers in winter: Winters are cool and damp with chilly evenings; a warm coat and waterproof shoes help on the hilly streets.
Visit in spring or autumn: April to June and September to October bring mild weather ideal for walking Siena and the Chianti countryside.

Learn about the contrade: Siena is divided into 17 contrade, each with its own flag, church and fountain; spotting their emblems makes walks more fun.
Try Sienese specialties: Order pici pasta, and save room for panforte and ricciarelli almond biscuits, local treats with medieval roots.
Dress for the Duomo: Cover shoulders and knees when visiting the cathedral and other churches, or carry a light scarf to cover up.

Climb the Facciatone: The unfinished cathedral wall, reached through the Duomo museum, gives a stunning view over the Campo with fewer crowds than the tower.
Time your Duomo visit: The famous inlaid marble floor is fully uncovered only during certain periods each year, so check dates when planning.
Go up the Torre del Mangia early: Entry is limited to small groups, so arrive at opening to climb the tower before queues build.

Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.

Day 1 of 2

🕘 9:30–17:00📍 5 stops

Day 2 of 2

🕘 9:30–12:45📍 4 stops