Siena: 48 Hours for a Perfect Weeke

Siena, the city in the heart of Tuscany, is a jewel set among rolling hills and golden fields. Known for its rich historical and cultural heritage, it offers a unique experience that can be fully explored even in just 48 hours.

Siena, a City of History and Culture

Located in the very heart of Tuscany, Siena enchants visitors with its medieval atmosphere and cultural wealth. Founded by the Romans as a military colony, the city flourished in the Middle Ages, becoming an important commercial and artistic center that rivaled even Florence.

Its historic center, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a labyrinth of cobblestone alleys, ancient palaces, and hidden squares, all enclosed within its old walls.

The beating heart of the city is Piazza del Campo, considered one of the most beautiful medieval squares in Europe, famous for the Palio, the historic horse race held twice a year that passionately involves the entire city.

The Artistic Heritage of Siena

Siena’s artistic heritage is an extraordinary journey through centuries of history and culture. At its core lies the Cathedral Complex of Siena, which includes some of the most significant artistic and historical sites in Italy.

The Cathedral of Siena (Duomo) is an architectural masterpiece housing priceless works of art. Inside, you can admire creations by Michelangelo, Donatello, Bernini, and the pulpit by Nicola Pisano, a marvel of medieval sculpture. The Piccolomini Library, with frescoes by Pinturicchio, and the rich marble mosaic floor, described by Vasari as “the most beautiful ever made,” are other unmissable wonders.

The Baptistery of San Giovanni, another gem of the complex, is famous for its Baptismal Font, a supreme expression of Renaissance sculpture created by Jacopo della Quercia, Donatello, and Lorenzo Ghiberti.

The Crypt, hidden for over seven centuries and rediscovered by chance in 1999, amazes visitors with its remarkably preserved 13th-century fresco cycle.

The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo preserves some of the most fascinating masterpieces of Italian art, including Duccio di Buoninsegna’s Maestà, Bernini’s Golden Rose, Donatello’s Madonna and Child, and Pisano’s moving Crucifix.

For a truly immersive experience, visit the “Path of Light” under the Cathedral and the panoramic terrace of the New Duomo, which offers breathtaking views over Siena and the Tuscan countryside.

For an exclusive experience, don’t miss the “Gate of Heaven” itinerary, which allows visitors to walk above the nave of the Cathedral and enjoy unique viewpoints both inside and outside the Duomo.

Tickets can be purchased directly on the Opera Duomo Siena website.

Piazza del Campo

Located at the heart of Siena, Piazza del Campo is one of the most famous and admired medieval squares in the world. Its unique shell shape, divided into nine sections, represents the Government of the Nine, the group of rulers who administered Siena during its golden age.

The square is surrounded by magnificent historic buildings, including the Palazzo Pubblico, the historic seat of Siena’s government, and the Torre del Mangia, one of the tallest medieval towers in Italy. The tower offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside — although it takes about 400 steps to reach the top!

Another highlight of Piazza del Campo is the Fonte Gaia, an ornate fountain at the top of the square, decorated with sculptures of the Madonna and Child and allegories of the theological virtues.

The square is also the stage for the Palio di Siena, held twice a year — on July 2 and August 16 — a deeply rooted tradition where the city’s districts compete in a vibrant, colorful race.

Piazza del Campo is not only a place of great beauty and historical importance but also a lively meeting spot for locals and tourists alike, with cafés and restaurants perfect for soaking up its unique atmosphere.

Palazzo Pubblico and the Civic Museum

The Palazzo Pubblico is one of the most important examples of Gothic civic architecture in Italy and still serves as Siena’s town hall. Built in the 13th century, it dominates Piazza del Campo, the city’s political and cultural center.

The building’s Ghibelline battlements and its tall Torre del Mangia symbolize the power of the secular government, in contrast to the religious authority represented by the Cathedral. Completed in 1348, the tower is among the highest in Italy and provides a spectacular view of Siena’s skyline.

Inside, the Civic Museum houses some of Siena’s most important works of art, including frescoes by Simone Martini and Ambrogio Lorenzetti. Among the most celebrated are Lorenzetti’s “Effects of Good and Bad Government”, located in the Sala della Pace — a masterpiece of medieval art illustrating daily life and civic values with extraordinary realism.

A visit to the Palazzo Pubblico offers a deep dive into the city’s proud past, reflecting the power and independence of the Sienese Republic during the Middle Ages.

The National Picture Gallery

The Pinacoteca Nazionale di Siena, housed in the Palazzo Buonsignori, is one of Italy’s most important museums for Sienese painting, covering a period from the 12th to the 17th century.

The collection features works by Siena’s greatest masters — Duccio di Buoninsegna, Simone Martini, and the Lorenzetti brothers, Pietro and Ambrogio — who defined the Sienese school of painting, known for its elegance, vivid colors, and spiritual intensity.

Among the highlights are Duccio’s Maestà and Madonna dei Francescani, Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s Annunciation and Enthroned Madonna, and Simone Martini’s Madonna and Child. The museum also includes works by Matteo di Giovanni and Beccafumi, adding further depth to this exceptional collection.

A visit to the Pinacoteca offers a complete immersion in Siena’s artistic identity and the broader cultural evolution of Tuscany.

A Culinary and Wine Tour of Siena

A food and wine tour in Siena is the perfect experience for lovers of fine cuisine and authentic flavors. You’ll visit selected restaurants, traditional taverns, and local wineries, tasting specialties such as pici (hand-rolled pasta), ribollita (hearty vegetable soup), and arista di Cinta Senese (succulent pork roast).

Don’t miss tastings of the region’s finest wines — Chianti and Brunello di Montalcino — in historic cellars or family-run estates.

Where to Eat in Siena

Osteria Le Logge

Located in a historic setting, Osteria Le Logge is renowned for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and refined use of local ingredients. Standout dishes include spaghettoni with pancetta, onions, and pecorino, stuffed rabbit, and smoked ricotta tortelli with mortadella and pistachios — all crafted to celebrate true Tuscan flavors.

Ristorante Guido

A genuine Tuscan trattoria, Ristorante Guido serves classic regional dishes. Start with Chianti cured meats, bruschette, and artichokes in oil, followed by homemade pappardelle with hare ragù or wild boar stew. The restaurant is also famous for its grilled meats, local cheeses, and traditional desserts — all accompanied by excellent Tuscan wines.

La Sosta di Pio VII

Located in a historic building in Siena’s old town, La Sosta di Pio VII combines charm and tradition. Its menu offers all the great Tuscan classics — pappardelle with wild boar, ribollita, ricotta and spinach tortelli, and grilled meats including the famous bistecca alla Fiorentina. The rustic, welcoming atmosphere makes it the perfect place to enjoy Siena’s culinary soul over a fine Chianti or Brunello di Montalcino.

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Cover photo credits: InItaly / Visit Tuscany