10 Best Things to Do in Siena

Piazza del Campo is a 13th-century square in central Siena that's famous for hosting the annual Palio horserace. It has an iconic shell shape that's split into 9 sections that slope downwards and meet in a central point known as gavinone (water drain). The unique downward slope ensures a great view of Siena from any angle.

Look closely at one of the alleys leading to Piazza del Campo, and you'll see a plaque with a verse from Dante's Divine Comedy. There are 5 more of these plagues throughout the city, which makes for a fun outing. It’s no coincidence that the Sienese are told from a young age to "walk with their head high!", reminding them that the city’s beauty stretches up towards the sky.

Pubblico Palace is one of the most important museums in Siena. The 13th-century brick town hall houses the city's civic museum, where you can admire spectacular works of art. A must-see is Ambrogio Lorenzetti's Allegoria ed effetti del Buono e del Cattivo Governo (The Allegory of Good and Bad Government), arguably the best artistic depiction of life in a medieval town.

If you have the energy to climb over 400 steps, Torre del Mangia (Tower of the Eater) rewards you with breathtaking views of the entire city and surrounding countryside. The tower was named after a spendthrift bell ringer nicknamed Mangiaguadagni (eat-the-profits). It has a large bell that rings during Siena's famous Palio season and annual events.

Piazza del Duomo is a city square that's easily accessible from just about anywhere in Siena. You can walk from Via di Città, which takes you past several historic buildings, including Accademia Chigiana (Chigiana Musical Academy). If you're in Piazza del Campo, stroll through Via dei Pellegrini until you get to Piazza San Giovanni, where you can take a break at the battistero (baptistery) and see notable artwork, including a statue by Donatello. From the baptistery, there's also a long, white staircase that leads right to the Duomo di Siena (Siena Cathedral).

Along the way, check out traditional shops and bakeries specialising in local treats such as ricciarelli (almond biscuit), cavallucci (Christmas pastry), panpepato (sweet round cake), schiacciata all’anice pasquale (Easter bread) and pan co’ santi (sweet bread).

Duomo di Siena is a medieval cathedral with an evocative, black and white marble facade. Its interior is even more majestic, with its floor entirely inlaid with Old and New Testament scenes. It's best to allocate a few hours to fully appreciate its structure and artwork, as well as the onsite Piccolomini Library, which has vibrant Pinturicchio frescoes. 

Step out of Duomo di Siena and you'll find yourself in Piazza Jacopo della Quercia. You can see columns and walls resembling the cathedral's interior – they're supposed to be part of Europe's largest church but construction was halted due to a plague during the 14th century. Climb the Facciatone (a facade meant for the unfinished cathedral) for uninterrupted views of Piazza del Campo and Siena.

Santa Maria della Scala is a remarkable museum occupying a former hospital and lodging for the city's pilgrims. It has a diverse collection of artefacts, ranging from archaeological digs to works by the best-known Sienese artists. One of its most important rooms is the Pilgrim's Hall (Pellegrinaio), which provides unique evidence on medieval medical practices in Italy. 

The Chiesa della Santissima Annunziata (Basilica of the Most Holy Annunciation), the former hospital chapel, and Palazzo Squarcialupi (which hosts temporary exhibits) are also some of Santa Maria della Scala most popular features. 

Palazzo Salimbeni is a Gothic-style palace that houses the 15th-century Monte dei Paschi di Siena – the oldest bank in the world. The building overlooks a square that was specially designed by architect Partini, who wanted to revisit medieval and renaissance architectural standards. 

The square is especially alluring at night, when hundreds of lights create a rather romantic atmosphere. The palace's interior displays the bank's historic archive and collection, including works by famous Sienese artists.

One of the best ways to fully experience Siena's beauty is on foot. The city has many sloped alleys that open up to inviting little squares and majestic cathedrals, including Basilica di San Domenico (Basilica of Saint Dominic) and Santa Maria dei Servi (Basilica of the Servants of Mary). 

Walking the hills that underpin Siena results in incredible views of the city's many historic landmarks. After a few hours of walking through the city, unwind in a traditional osteria with local specialities such as scottiglia (slow-cooked meat in tomato sauce), crostini neri (toasted bread with liver), paired with Chianti or Vernaccia.