Siena is Italy’s most underrated city! Overlooking the rolling Tuscan hills, the medieval city of Siena is a perfectly preserved UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by a 1,000 year old wall, awarded the capital of sustainable tourism for many years, home to one of Italy’s most stunning cathedrals and the legendary Palio, it’s cheaper than Italy’s most popular cities and the food is out of this world, showcasing the best of Tuscan cuisine. The good news is that you can experience all of this with just one day in Siena.
Siena feels more authentic than its counterparts of Rome, Florence and Venice. Tourists do not overpower locals, it was one of the only cities in Italy where I felt I got a true insight into local life. This is no coincidence, the city makes conscious efforts to
Similar to most of my trips, I visited Siena on a whim. Having left it too late to book accommodation in my initial city of choice, Florence, and penniless from my stint in Riva del Garda, Siena was the only place within my price range. I wasn’t initially excited to spend a few weeks here but as I was pulling my case through the night lit cobbled streets, my suitcase wheels echoing through the narrow alleys (and waking up the locals – sorry) I was delighted with where my bad planning got me. Life lesson learned, leave everything until the last minute!
Let me show you how to spend a day in Siena, I’ve included an interactive map of everywhere on this itinerary to help you navigate.
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Siena Quick Tips
- Arriving to Siena by train? Book in advance for the best prices, trains in Italy are expensive when booked close to travel date
- Wear comfy shoes, the city is built on three hills and many of the path are cobblestoned
- Steer clear from Piazza del Campo, restaurants here are mostly overpriced tourist traps. Do explore the alleys for the best ones!
One Day In Siena Itinerary
This is a busy one day itinerary with many cool sights and delicious food. I recommend you start at 8am to make the most of your 24 hours in Siena. I have included an interactive map at the bottom of the itinerary which you can save for reference.
Morning: Breakfast + Duomo
Best Breakfast Spots In Siena
Siena has some lovely espresso bars and bakeries, one of my favourite things to do was to sit out on the atmospheric alleys with a pastry and coffee just watching the world go by.
You might want to try Ricciarelli, traditional Siena biscuits made from almond flour, with a hint of citrus. These oval shaped treats are gluten free with a chewier and softer texture to another Italian biscuit, amaretti. They will be served with a generous dusting of icing sugar.
I am sharing the bakeries and cafes I enjoyed below but there is no shortage of cafes in Siena.
- Bakery Il Magnifico
- Torrefazione Fiorella
- La Nuova Pasticceria
- Pasticceria Nannini Conca D’Oro
Duomo di Siena Complex (2.5 hours)
The first attraction is one of the best things to do in Siena, the Duomo. I like to start my sightseeing days with the biggest attraction first, that way I can minimise queuing, crowds, and have no pressure to hurry throughout the day at other sights. Although the Duomo is the busiest place in Siena, it is a huge complex , once you are inside the crowds don’t appear so large.
The Duomo di Siena is truly breathtaking, it took 200 years to complete and is an incredible example of medieval architecture. The black and white marble stripes is like nothing I’ve seen on a cathedral before, while the front of the cathedral features a colourful mosaic. Another interesting feature is the Facciatone, this is the unfinished facade, which was never completed due to the black plague.
The interior is just as striking with striped columns and intricate mosaic floor that depict stories from the Bible.The marble floor is often covered to ensure its protection but is uncovered at various times throughout the year. This information will be displayed at the time of booking. .
To get the full experience and access to different areas I recommend purchasing the PORTA DEL CIELO pass. You need to book in advance as tickets sell out. You can choose your entry time, but you must adhere to it; otherwise, entry may be denied.
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Midday: Lunch + Piazza del Campo
Chiasso del Bargello (10 mins)
This is one of the most beautiful alleys in Siena, it connects Via di Città with Via San Pietro, look up to see the famous archway. Located close to Palazzo Chigi-Saracini, locals also hand potted green plants to brighten up the area.
Lunch: Ciaccino from La Piccola Ciaccineria (30 mins)
Ciacinni is a Tuscan speciality, it’s also know as schiaacciata in Florence. It’s a flatbread that is stuffed with various fillings. Think of it as a pizza sandwich with very light dough. The ciacinni usually includes a type of meat, such as prosciutto, spicy salami, or speck, and a cheese like mozzarella, stracchino, or mascarpone.
La Piccola Ciaccineria was somewhere I kept revisiting to get my Ciacinni fix in Siena. Don’t be fooled by the unassuming exterior; this low-key pizzeria packs a punch to your tastebuds. They also offer regular pizzas and calzones. A slice will set you back just €3.
There are no seats but you can sit on the steps across the road and to fuel yourself for the rest of this one day in Siena itinerary.
Piazza del Campo (1 hour)
Midday we are exploring the heart of Siena, Piazza del Campo, a large shell shaped square. The Piazza is nestled in the midst of three small hills and is surrounded by eleven narrow streets that slope down to the square. It is considered one of the greatest squares in all of Europe.
The Piazza’s open design is perfect for outdoor events. On the night we arrived, the square was filled with seats, and a stage was erected for a classical concert. Not to mention, it is also the venue for the famous horse racing event, Palio di Siena.
On a typical day, it is a bustling place with people sitting on the ground, enjoying gelato, or at one of the many cafes and restaurants surrounding it. It also provides some much needed shade during the summer heat.
On the piazza you can visit historic buildings such as the white marble Gaia Fountain and Siena’s town hall – Palazzo Pubblico.
Torre del Mangia (30 mins)
Also located on Piazza del Campo and visible throughout the city is Torre del Mangia, at 87 metres it’s Italy’s second-largest tower. Climb up the towers 400 steps to get one of the best views on your one day in Siena.
Interestingly it was constructed to be the same height as the Duomo di Siena to symbolize that the state and church have equal power.
You can only purchase tickets on the spot, they sell out fast so it’s best to drop by first thing to secure your desired time slot.
Gelato (30 mins)
After climbing all those stairs in Torre del Mangia you might like a gelato to cool you down, Siena has great gelaterie, I recommend avoiding the ones directly located on Piazza del Campo as they are very expensive and not THAT nice.
I recommend Gelateria Nice or GROM for the best gelato in Siena, you might want to eat this in the next stop on this itinerary.
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Palazzo Salimbeni (10 mins)
Situated in Palazzo Salimbeni is the world’s oldest and first bank, the Monte dei Paschi bank. Built in 1472, it is still in operation today. It’s particularly beautiful at night when only the white statue is lit up, it all very grand! Make sure to look up and see statues of the bankers heads!
There is not much to do here but it’s a nice place to stop and admire…and eat your gelato of course!
Check Out The Naked Lady On Via dei Rossi (10 mins)
On the corner of Via dei Rossi stands a mysterious naked lady named Dama Ignuda, peering through her curtains at the city below, with nothing but a pomegranate dangling in front of her. Don’t worry our one day in Siena isn’t turning sleazy all of a sudden. This is a statue, I can’t help but wonder if a drunken man wandering these dark alleys at night has ever been fooled by it!
This unusual sculpture was created in 1995 by a local artist, Pier Luigi Olla. It’s easy to miss; in fact, I walked by it on many occasions before I noticed it.
Porta Ovile (10 mins)
Built in the 13th century, the Porta Ovile are medieval gates of the city walls. It looks especially nice in the afternoon when the sun begins to set, it makes for a nice photo and you’ll be treated to views of the incredible Tuscan countryside.
Evening: Sunset + Dinner
Sunset At Fortezza Medicea (1 hour)
The last place before the sun goes down our one day in Siena itinerary is Fortezza Medicea. Dating back to 1561, this former fortress was once a defence during battles with the Spanish. Today, it is the location for many events, such as an outdoor cinema, concerts, and art exhibitions.
The views are incredible, they were my favourite in Siena, with a sea of terracotta roofs, the Duomo, and the rolling Tuscan hills in the distance.
Why not pick up a small bottle of wine in one of the shops to kick off the evening in style.
Traditional Siena Dinner
During my few weeks in Siena I can confidently say that i did not have a bad meal! The restaurants are intimate and often spill out onto the streets. No better way to end 24 hours in Siena than with a full stomach, I have recommended a few local dishes below.
- Pici Pasta: homemade pasta that is similar to spaghetti but is up to 3m long.
- Ribollita: bread and vegetable stew, ingredients vary but usually cannelli beans, kale, carrots. and onions
- Bistecca alla Fiorentina: t-bone loin steak with a tender fillet on one side and a loin on the other. It’s served rare with pepper and lemon.
- Peposo: black pepper and wine beef stew served on top of creamy polenta.
Siena Restaurant Recommendations
- Osteria Permalico: cosy and romantic restaurant in a historical building. Menu features pici pasta, lasagne and boar ragu.
- Casato Ristorante Wine Bar: modern and elegant interior, dishes include pici pasta, Cinta Senese pork and boar ragu.
- Grotta Santa Caterina da Bagoga: charming restaurant tucked down an alley off the busy street. Menu features bistecca alla Fiorentina, boar pappardelle and peposo, there is also the option for a surprise tasting menu.
- Il Cavaliere Errante Siena: located on a quiet piazza the pizza here is top notch. The tiramisu is also delicious
Night time In Siena
At night in Siena the crowds quiet down with many day trippers leaving. The streets are illuminated in warm light, and the city is engulfed in a medieval atmosphere. It was my favourite time to explore, the narrow alleys are so quiet which makes a nice change from the daytime crowds.
Siena is a young city, home to a University, there are many bars to relax in; Maudit Pub and San Paolo are cosy spots.
Map Of One Day Siena Itinerary
This is the end of my One day in Siena itinerary. Keep reading for more practical information and an FAQ section.
What To Do In Siena For 2 Days
One day in Siena is enough to see the city, if you have 2 days in Siena I recommend exploring the incredible Tuscan countryside by taking a day trip to remember.
- Cycle through the famous Tuscan countryside surrounded by vineyards. This tour involves an e-bike and lunch at a local farm
- Visit the nearby medieval villages of Pienza and Montepulciano. This tour includes a 3 course meal and pecorino cheese tasting at an organic farm and wine cellar tour and tasting in Montepulciano
- Learn about the famous Brunello wine on a Brunello di Montalcino Guided Wine Tour and lunch. Brunello di Montalcino is made with 100% Sangiovese, this is the wine that according to critics is the best in Italy.
Where To Stay In Siena
The historical centre of Siena is the best place to stay. You will be within walking distance of the main attractions, plenty of incredible restaurants and bars. Check out some of my recommendations below,
Budget | Attilio Camere is centrally located just 100 metres from Piazza del Campo and very close to Siena’s msin sights. Rooms are cosy, with high wooden beam ceiling, all are fitted with AC and some have an incredible view of the city.
Mid-range | B&B I Tetti di Siena is located in the historic centre of Siena, rooms are bright and spacious, if you are lucky enough to have a room with a balcony the view of the city is spectacular.
Splurge | Siena Vip B&B, a boutique b&b located just 5 minutes walk to the Duomo. The hotel offers a big breakfast spread that is delivered to your room each morning. The rooms are modern and spacious, you can also choose to stay in a studio or apartment with a private kitchen
Siena FAQ
Yes, Siena’s compact size makes it ideal for walking. Parts of the city are hilly and have cobblestones so make sure you pack comfy shoes.
Tuscany’s biggest market is held at La Lizza, from 8.30 to 13.30. It is not touristy, this is a local market selling household items, clothing, fruit and vegetables.
The main shopping street in Siena is Via Banchi di Sopra, here you can find nice boutiques and souvenir shops.
Siena is much safer than Italy’s bigger cities of Rome, Venice and Florence. However, always be mindful of pickpocketing and stay aware of your surroundings.
Yes, Siena is much cheaper than Florence. Accommodation is 24% higher, Restaurant prices are 10% higher and groceries are 5.2% higher in Florence.
I wouldn’t recommend it as would be rushed and you will miss out on a lot of cool sights, Siena deserves a full day to explore.
