Siena

Siena, a jewel in Tuscany, is often packaged as a quick stop on a tour. With just ninety minutes, visitors can barely peek into its historical heart. Yes, you will see the magnificent Piazza del Campo and the stunning Duomo. However, what happens if you stay past the usual hurried visits?

What should you prioritize in under 90 minutes?

If you're stuck with the briefest of itineraries, focus on the must-see sites. The stunning Piazza del Campo, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is your starting point. Here, you can see the Palazzo Pubblico, a grand medieval building, and the famed Torre del Mangia, which stands tall at 102 meters. You might also want to pop into the Duomo di Siena, whose gothic facade and intricate interior are stunning. Expect to spend roughly 45 minutes here to appreciate the beauty.

You can grab a quick lunch in the square, but beware of tourist traps with inflated prices. Instead, look for a nearby trattoria for a simple pasta dish, prices hover around 10-15 EUR.

What magic unfolds as the sun sets?

As the day winds down, Siena's heart subtly shifts. The day-trippers fade away, and the square transforms into a tranquillity that is hard to fathom amidst daytime crowds. Venture back to Piazza del Campo where you can see locals enjoying their evening. Grab a gelato, around 3-5 EUR, and sit on the steps as you watch the sky change colors.

Staying for the evening also opens up dining opportunities. Many places offer evening menus that are far better than their lunch options. Expect to pay around 20-25 EUR for a meal with wine in a local restaurant. Don’t miss the chance to try Pici, a traditional Tuscan handmade pasta.

How to get to Siena, and what to expect

Siena is reachable by bus or train from major cities like Florence, which is about 70 km away. The bus takes about 1.5 hours, while trains may involve a change and take around 2 hours. Keep an eye out for the SITA bus service, which runs frequently. Expect to pay around 9-12 EUR for a one-way ticket.

Once in Siena, you can explore on foot, most places are within walking distance. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobbled streets can be tricky.

Is it worth it to linger?

Absolutely. If you're able to skip the group tour mentality, Siena warrants a longer stay. The evening offers a captivating charm that is missing during the busy daytime hours. However, if you're only passing through on a tight schedule, you might find it more beneficial to prioritize other towns that can fill your day.

Warning from experience

Be cautious during the summer months, as Siena can get very hot, and the cobblestones can be unforgiving. Additionally, restaurants near the square can hike their prices during peak tourist hours, so it’s better to explore a bit further away from the main tourist areas. In the late afternoon, the square becomes a gathering spot for locals, creating a vibrant scene that contrasts sharply with the daytime rush.