Sienna Italy 3 Day Itinerary

3-Day Siena Itinerary:

This itinerary focuses on the iconic sights and experiences of Siena, perfect for first-time visitors.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Hostel Siena (for its central location and social atmosphere), Hotel Athena (charming with a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views)
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Italia (cozy and centrally located), Hotel Duomo (comfortable stay near the Piazza del Campo)
  • Luxury: Grand Hotel Continental Siena – Starhotels Collezione (historic hotel with luxurious rooms and amenities), Hotel Certosa di Maggiano (boutique hotel in a stunning renovated 14th-century monastery just outside the city walls).

Day 1: Immerse Yourself in History

  • Morning: Start your day at the Piazza del Campo, the heart of Siena.

    • Things to do:
      • Climb the Torre del Mangia for breathtaking views over the city (climb is free with the purchase of a ticket).
      • Explore the Palazzo Pubblico and its impressive art collection.
      • Visit the Museo Civico, which houses masterpieces by Siena’s famous artists, including Duccio, Simone Martini, and Ambrogio Lorenzetti.
    • Things to see:
      • Palazzo Chigi Saracini (for its unique architecture and connection to the city’s history)

  • Afternoon: Indulge in a delicious Tuscan lunch at one of these restaurants:

    • Osteria Le Logge: Enjoy traditional Sienese dishes like pici all’aglione and ribollita.

    • ** Osteria da Giotto:** This charming restaurant offers a great selection of pasta dishes, pizzas, and local specialties.

    • Things to do: Explore the historic city center. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the medieval architecture, and visit the Duomo di Siena, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

  • Evening: Indulge in a traditional Tuscan dinner at one of these restaurants:

    • Piazza del Campo: Experience dining in the iconic Piazza del Campo while enjoying the atmosphere of the Palio.

Day 2: Exploring Beyond the Walls

  • Morning: Day trip to the nearby Tuscan countryside!

    • Things to see/do:
      • Visit the Chianti region, enjoy a wine tasting experience at a local vineyard, and explore the rolling hills and charming villages.

  • Afternoon: Discover the beauty of San Gimignano with its iconic medieval towers.

  • Savor the flavors of Tuscany with a delicious lunch at a trattoria (small restaurant) in the town.

    • Tips:
      • Explore the vineyards and wineries:
        • Wine Tasting: Indulge in a Chianti wine tasting experience.
        • Cooking Class: Take part in a local cooking class and learn to make pasta from scratch or other traditional dishes.

  • Evening: Enjoy a romantic dinner with stunning views of the Tuscan countryside at a restaurant like:

    • La Taverna di San Lorenzo: Experience authentic farm-to-table cuisine.
    • Osteria Tutta la Siena: Indulge in a delicious dinner while experiencing the charm of San Gimignano’s historic center and its traditional trattoria setting.

Day 3: A Taste of Culture

  • Morning: Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the local markets.

    • Tip: Visit the Piazza del Mercato, a vibrant marketplace held twice a week, where you can sample fresh produce, Tuscan cheeses, and regional specialties.

  • Afternoon: Explore the Museo dell’Opera della Metropolitana di Siena, which houses artifacts and artwork related to the Palio horse race.

  • For lunch: Enjoy a picnic in the Piazza del Duomo with local cheeses, bread, and wine.

Evening: Celebrate your final night in Siena with a traditional Tuscan meal.

  • Things to know about Siena:

    • The Palio: The Palio is a medieval horse race held twice a year in Siena’s main square, Piazza del Campo. It’s a unique and exciting event, but be aware that it only takes place during the Palio di Siena, which occurs on July 2nd (for the contrada of the She-Wolf) and August 16th (for the contrada of the Horse).
    • Local Specialties: Try ribollita (a hearty bread and vegetable soup), pici* pasta with a variety of traditional sauces.

  • For dinner, try:

    • ** Osteria Le Logge**: Enjoy a delicious and authentic Tuscan meal in a charming setting.
    • Osteria le Vecchie Mura: This restaurant is located within the walls of Siena, offering a romantic atmosphere for your final evening.

    Enjoy a traditional meal and the ambiance of the city.

  • Other things to consider:

    • Accommodation:
      • Hotel Italia is a popular mid-range option known for its traditional setting.
    • Osteria da Giotto, La Taverna di San Gimignano, and Il Picciolo are all great choices for accommodation, offering unique experiences and local cuisine.

  • Other things to see:

Siena’s culinary scene: * Pici: Experience the traditional art of hand-rolled pasta making in a pici cooking class.

Have a wonderful time exploring the history and culture of Siena!