
Siena Travel Guide
If you mention Siena to a group of travelers, it's likely at least one of them will start gushing with superlatives. But rather than assuming they've had too much to drink, you should believe what they're saying - this medieval Tuscan town positively oozes charm, despite being largely overrun by tourists during the high season. Somehow Siena manages to host all those crowds every day, year after year, and not lose her lustre. Whether you visit on a day-trip from Florence or you decide to stay here for a few days, Siena is likely to turn you into one of those people who gushes at parties when someone mentions the name.
What to Do
The biggest sight in Siena is probably the town itself, with its winding cobblestone streets and pretty piazzas. But the historic center is even big enough that there are a few attractions you'll want to make time for - and you don't even have to go outside the old city walls to see them all.
The central orientation point is the city's main square, the Piazza del Campo, around which Siena's famous horse races (the Palio) are run twice each summer. It's the perfect spot to enjoy a gelato, or just do some people-watching. If you plan to come for the Palio, reserve your room well in advance! The Duomo is a short walk from the Campo and is a multi-colored masterpiece. It was intended to be built even larger, but the bigger church was never finished. If you're into relics, just outside the historic center is a church that has the head and one finger of St. Catherine, Siena's patron saint.
Getting There
It's unlikely that you'll be starting and ending your trip in Siena, but if you're planning to just explore the Tuscan region you might look into flying directly into Florence. If the prices are beyond your reach, the next best airport to try is probably Rome's Fiumicino Airport. If you're already in Europe, of course, your options for which airport to fly into are practically endless. Start by hunting for airfare to Italy and go from there.
Where to Stay
Staying in the historic center of Siena can be quite expensive, but there's a more modern city outside the old city walls where you'll be able to find more budget accommodations. You can browse our selection of Siena hostels and Siena hotels and book your room today.
For more information on Siena and the rest of Italy, don't forget to check out our Italy Travel Guide.
Search Hotels in Siena
Search Car Rentals in Siena
Search Hostels in Siena
Featured Italy Adventure Tours
Europe Basix
The multicoloured tapestry of European history is revealed in all its glory as we take the long road from Paris to Rome. From ancient times through the Renaissance to our present age, be amazed by the incredible richness of European culture. There are plenty of places to go and many sights to see, so start warming up your imagination now! more information
Bohemia and Beyond
Take the long road through Bohemia on your way from Germany to Italy. From Checkpoint Charlie to Gothic cathedrals, magical hilltop castles to romantic Venetian canals, this is an architectural extravaganza you simply cannot miss. more information
European Encounter
Tap into Europe's rich reservoir of history on this journey through seven fascinating countries. Travel from Berlin to Rome, soaking up the charm of Czech castles, the culture of Vienna, the romance of Venice and the artistic wonders of Florence along the way. Join us as we uncover the unique heritage of each city and be rewarded with memories that will last a lifetime. more information
Adriatic Explorer
This trip whisks you from the medieval monuments of Split to the Istrian Peninsula, with cobbled streets, ancient churches and beautiful beaches to explore, then across the Adriatic Sea to the maritime wonder of Venice. En route, we stop on the island of Rab for a change of pace and to meet the wonderful islanders and their proud heritage. For a taste of Croatian and Venetian culture, breathtaking sights and scrumptious food and wine, for hiking and relaxing on the beach, this trip has something for everyone. more information
Adventure Travel by Type
- Motorcoach Tours
- Overland Adventure Travel
- Safaris
- Small Group Adventure Travel
- Snow Sports
- Specialist Tour
Siena Travel Community
Are you worthy?
The BootsnAll Travel Community is, we like to think, the soul of the company. It's the place where like-minded travelers come to talk and exchange stories, travel tips and ideas. Our membership includes thousands of people from more than 90 countries - including experts in the travel industry - all interested in talking and reading about travel!
Becoming a BootsnAll member allows you to interact with the members of our travel community, whether you're planning a trip and want feedback from others who've been there, in the middle of a trip and want to share your excitement, or you've just gotten back and can now answer questions for people who are in the planning stages. It's wonderfully circular! just like the Earth.
Latest Siena Travel Stories
Latest Forum Discussions
Europe Recommendations and Raves » thenomad
2 years roaming Europe? How does it work at customs? » enki42
souvenirs to bring home » ryannorris
Shoes for Europe » WhereForArt
What are your favourite places in Britain? » WorldRamblers
How many guide books do you buy/consult? » laughingnomad
Norway » rafaellazo
Switzerland - As Expensive as everyone seems to claim? » ecg129
A Single Girl + A week in the Balkans? » Not the First Continental Op
Help me plan my itinerary » moniak





