Province of Siena Travel Guide

Tuscany
Province of Siena
Wander the mediaeval streets of this Tuscan city, visit ancient cathedrals and artworks, and enjoy a vibrant food and wine scene.

Siena is a city with a rich and fascinating cultural legacy and an excellent place to visit. The streets look like they’ve stayed the same for centuries and the entire central city has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are magnificent cathedrals, churches, art museums and public buildings all around, with excellent restaurants and craft shops scattered in between.

History buffs and art lovers alike will appreciate the old buildings on every corner, galleries big and small, and some truly staggering mediaeval palaces. Start at the Piazza del Campo, the city’s main public space. It is lined with impressive old houses and shops and is dominated by the Palazzo Pubblico. Head inside to find the Museo Civico, where you’ll see frescoes from hundreds of years ago.

Climb the stairs of the nearby Torre del Mangia for a breathtaking view of the area. Duomo di Siena is another of the city’s most spectacular landmarks. The towering Gothic structure was built in the 1200s and is best known for its black and white marble façade and the amazing artworks that decorate its walls. Be sure to visit the Biblioteca Piccolomini inside the cathedral to see its beautiful frescoes and old books. For more stunning churches, check out the Basilica di San Domenico or the Abbazio di Monte Oliveto Maggiore just outside the city.    

Take a break from sightseeing and simply stroll the streets, duck into great little shops, and try out some excellent restaurants. Anyone in town for July 2 or August 16 will be in for an incredible spectacle. The horse race known as Il Palio is run twice a year, stirring local passions and stoking ancient rivalries. Siena has been divided into 17 Contrade (districts) since the mediaeval era, 10 of which compete in the race each year. Enjoy the parades and festivities leading up to the races and take in the electric atmosphere.

Siena is an historic city with a formidable legacy. Visitors can admire  its architecture, spend hours gazing at centuries-old artworks, or just soak up the tradition that permeates every street.

Popular cities in Province of Siena

Siena
Siena
Known for Historical, Tours and Cathedrals
Set amid Tuscany’s rolling, vine-covered hills, this medieval gem offers fascinating history, stunning sights and sublime local food.

Reasons to visit

  • Piazza del Campo
  • Siena Cathedral
  • Palazzo Pubblico
San Gimignano showing shopping and street scenes as well as a large group of people
San Gimignano
Known for Countryside, Historical and Wineries
Take a step back in time as you explore the grandiose plazas and frescoed churches of this medieval town set above Val d’Elsa in the heart of Tuscany.

Reasons to visit

  • Piazza della Cisterna
  • San Gimignano Communal Palace
  • Piazza Duomo
Montalcino featuring a sunset and heritage architecture
Montalcino
Known for Historical, Wineries and Spas
Famous for its viniculture, this hilltop town also has a walled old town decorated with a majestic fortress, churches and piazzas.

Reasons to visit

  • Castello Banfi
  • Fortress of Montalcino
Montepulciano which includes landscape views, a city and heritage architecture
Montepulciano
Known for Wineries, Historical and Tours
Experience authentic yet unassuming Tuscan charm as you wander along streets framed by medieval masterpieces, galleries, trattorias and wine bars.

Reasons to visit

  • Church of St. Augustine
Pienza featuring heritage architecture, a small town or village and a monument
Pienza
Known for Wineries, Luxury and Hills
Marvel at architectural wonders, browse artisan’s shops and people-watch at pavement cafés in this Renaissance town set amid Tuscany’s glorious countryside.

Reasons to visit

  • Pienza Cathedral
Chianciano Terme showing tranquil scenes
Chianciano Terme
Known for Spas, Wineries and Swimming
A holiday in Chianciano Terme offers a spa town, rich in curative waters, an unspoilt setting amidst green hills, with a mild climate, about 500 metres above sea level.