Siena is the quintessential medieval city, standing as a perfectly preserved time capsule of the 14th century. At its heart lies the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, widely regarded as one of Europe's greatest public spaces. Twice a year, this square hosts the Palio, a historic and fierce horse race between the city's 17 districts (contrade) that dates back to the Middle Ages. Overlooking the square is the Palazzo Pubblico and its soaring Torre del Mangia, providing panoramic views over the clay-colored rooftops. The city's Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, famous for its striking black-and-white striped marble and intricate floor mosaics. Siena was once a powerful banking center and rival to Florence; it remains home to Monte dei Paschi, the world's oldest bank, operating since 1472. With its winding alleys, ancient traditions, and the warm glow of its unique "burnt sienna" brickwork, the entire historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a jewel of the Tuscan hills.
Location: Italy
Top sights: Piazza del Campo · Palazzo Pubblico · Torre del Mangia
Nearby: San Gimignano (29 km)
Population: ~54.000
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Avg °C
4
5
8
12
16
22
25
25
19
15
9
5
Rain mm
58
64
62
54
58
37
30
36
66
82
102
78
Live webcam – Siena
See what it looks like near Siena right now.
Siena › South-east: Piazza del Campo - Teatro dei Rinnovati - Palazzo Pubblico - Torre del Mangia · 0 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Population
53,901
Coordinates
43.31880, 11.33080
Facts
Piazza del Campo is divided into 9 brick sectors in honor of the Council of Nine.
The Torre del Mangia stands exactly 102 meters tall.
The Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank was founded in 1472.
The Palio horse race is held annually on July 2nd and August 16th.
Construction of the Siena Cathedral began in 1215 and took over 150 years.
Siena is built on three hills at an elevation of 322 meters above sea level.
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→15:350.8 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
1: The day begins with spiritual tranquility at the impressive Basilica di San Domenico before approaching the magnificent Duomo di Siena.
2: At midday, we admire the fascinating Baptistery and take a relaxed stroll through the alleys to the Piazza del Campo.
3: In the afternoon, we dive deep into the history and art of the Sienese Republic within the halls of the Palazzo Pubblico.
4: The excursion culminates with a spectacular sunset from the Torre del Mangia, bathing all of Siena in a warm, golden light.
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09:10 · 54'
Basilica di San Domenico
Marvel at the massive brick architecture of this basilica which houses the relic of Saint Catherine, and arrive early in the morning to avoid the tourist crowds.
Be fascinated by the sweeping black and white marble facade of the cathedral and book tickets in advance to ensure you can admire the spectacular mosaic floor.
Discover the baptismal font featuring bronze reliefs by Donatello in this fascinating baptistery, and pay close attention to the artistic frescoes on the vaulted ceilings.
Enjoy the unique shell-shaped architecture of this world-famous square where the Palio horse race takes place, and sip an espresso at one of the perimeter cafes.
Visit the historic town hall featuring impressive frescoes depicting good and bad government, and allow ample time to explore the richly decorated council chambers.
Climb the steep steps of this medieval tower to enjoy a panoramic view over Siena, but make sure to bring water and wear very comfortable walking shoes.
A rainy morning at Basilica di San Domenico where the brickwork glows in the mist. At noon, the Cathedral provides the perfect sanctuary from the downpour. Afternoon is spent dry inside the Palazzo Pubblico. By evening, the wet stones of Piazza del Campo reflect the city lights beautifully; watch your step on the slick pavement.
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09:10 · 54'
Basilica di San Domenico
Admire the relics of Saint Catherine in the vast, dry interior and be careful on the entrance steps which become quite slippery during heavy rainfall.
The splendid halls of the Museo Civico are a convenient refuge from the storm; admire the allegories of good government while sheltered by the thick walls.
A crisp winter morning at San Domenico with clear views of the city in the sharp light. At noon, warm up inside the magnificent Cathedral. By afternoon, the sun dips early behind the buildings of Piazza del Campo. Evening lights sparkle prematurely in the narrow streets as the winter chill sets in.
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09:10 · 54'
Basilica di San Domenico
The massive walls keep the winter frost at bay; enjoy the morning silence inside, but dress in layers for the windy square in front of the church.
1: We start with a fresh morning breeze at the Fortezza Medicea and cycle to the venerable Basilica di San Domenico.
2: The midday hours are spent around the breathtaking Duomo before reaching the lively heart of the historic center.
3: In the afternoon, we park the bikes at Piazza del Campo to explore the beautiful Fonte Gaia and Palazzo Pubblico.
4: In the evening, the steep climb up the Torre del Mangia rewards us with an unforgettable view over the terracotta roofs.
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09:10 · 54'
Fortezza Medicea
Stroll along the massive brick walls of this old Medici fortress for great views of the city, and use the surrounding park for a relaxing picnic in the shade.
Marvel at the massive brick architecture of this basilica which houses the relic of Saint Catherine, and arrive early in the morning to avoid the tourist crowds.
Be fascinated by the dramatic black and white marble facade of the cathedral and book tickets in advance to ensure you can admire the spectacular mosaic floor.
Enjoy the unique shell-shaped architecture of this world-famous square where the Palio horse race takes place, and sip an espresso at one of the perimeter cafes.
Admire the detailed reliefs of this monumental fountain at the upper edge of the piazza, and toss a coin into the water to make a wish for a swift return.
Visit the historic town hall featuring impressive frescoes depicting good and bad government, and allow ample time to explore the richly decorated council chambers.
Climb the steep steps of this medieval tower to enjoy a panoramic view over Siena, but make sure to bring water and wear very comfortable walking shoes.
Morning start at the Fortezza with cautious riding on wet paths. At noon, we reach the Basilica to take cover. Afternoon involves parking the bikes securely for a Cathedral visit. By evening, we cycle back through glistening streets, staying alert for slippery cobblestones on the turns.
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09:10 · 54'
Fortezza Medicea
The paths on the ramparts can be muddy in the rain; stick to paved sections and check your brakes before descending into the city center.
A clear winter morning on the bike around the Fortezza with superb distant views. At noon, cycle to the Basilica through the still, cold air. In the afternoon, warm up your numb fingers inside the Cathedral. By evening, ride back by bike light through the festively lit old town.
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09:10 · 54'
Fortezza Medicea
The view over the winter Tuscan hills is memorable; wear windproof gloves for riding on the ramparts as it feels much colder up there.
1: The road trip begins in a relaxed manner at the picturesque Lago di Monaciano, offering a peaceful start in nature.
2: Around midday, we head to the family-friendly Ludoteca before approaching the imposing walls of the Medici fortress.
3: In the afternoon, our route takes us into the historic heart to the Duomo di Siena, where Gothic architecture amazes us.
4: The day ends at the legendary Piazza del Campo, where we soak up the city's unique flair over a delightful dinner.
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09:10 · 72'
Lago di Monaciano
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at this tranquil lake surrounded by Tuscan scenery, and be sure to bring your camera for panoramic nature photography.
Visit this interactive center featuring engaging activities for the whole family, and check online beforehand for any special workshops scheduled for children.
Stroll along the massive brick walls of this old Medici fortress for great views of the city, and use the surrounding park for a relaxing picnic in the shade.
Be fascinated by the wide-open black and white marble facade of the cathedral and book tickets in advance to ensure you can admire the spectacular mosaic floor.
Enjoy the unique shell-shaped architecture of this world-famous square where the Palio horse race takes place, and sip an espresso at one of the perimeter cafes.
A rainy start at Lago di Monaciano where mist hangs low over the water. At noon, the Ludoteca in Siena provides perfect dry fun for the family. In the afternoon, explore the Fortezza area, admiring the views from the car. By evening, park near the center for a brief visit to the Cathedral and square.
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09:10 · 72'
Lago di Monaciano
The unpaved roads near the lake can get muddy; stick to the main road and enjoy the mystical, misty atmosphere from the safety of your car.
A frosty morning at Lago di Monaciano with glistening fields all around. At noon, the warm Ludoteca is a blessing for the whole family. In the afternoon, admire the low winter sun from the Fortezza walls. By evening, explore festively lit Siena before returning to your heated car.
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09:10 · 72'
Lago di Monaciano
The frozen landscape gives great photo opportunities; watch out for icy patches on the access roads and keep the car warm during short stops.