Go to holiday villas listing

Siena

Siena, a charming city in Tuscany, rivals Florence in its artistic glories. The Historic Center of Siena with its impressive renaissance monuments has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. And, it is not just the Historic Center---this beautiful medieval city, built around the spectacular Piazza del Campo, is in itself a brilliant work of art. It takes more than one day to savour the city and explore all its attractions. Siena is also an important base to explore the five-star medieval town of San Gumingnano.

Vacation rentals in Siena are heavily booked in summers and especially during II Palio, the city's famous twice-yearly festival, which takes place Piazza del Campo. Make sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Things to see in Siena

• Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia (Public Palace and Mangia Tower): Since the 13th century, the palazzo has been home to the city's authorities. The finest rooms are now open to the public, the most famous being the Sale della Pace, with its medieval panoramic frescoes by Ambrogio Lorenzetti. Climb up the tower to take in the spectacular views of the city
• Il Duomo (The Cathedral): The 12th century Duomo, one of the greatest examples of Italian Romanesque architecture, has some well preserved Renaissance frescoes by Senese masters. The Piccolomini Library, inside also has some vibrant frescoes by Pinturicchio.
• Museo dell'Opera del Duomo: Most of the cathedral's art collection is housed in the museum. The must see are the Byzantine altar piece and gilded paintings by Duccio di Buoninsegna.
• Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistery): From the Duomo, proceed to the nearby Baptistery, which dates back to the 14th century. Brightly colored frescoes adorn the walls. The centrepiece is decorated with bronze carvings by artists such as Ghiberti and Donatello.
• Spedale di Santa Maria della Scala (Hospital of Santa Maria della Scala): Dating back to the 11th century, this hospital treated patients until the 1980s. The building now houses some impressive artworks, an archaeological museum and exhibition space.

Restaurants in Siena

• Gelateria Brivido: This place is located close to Piazza del Campo. It specializes in not ice creams, sherbets and granita - fruity, icy style ice cream.
• Osteria Le Logge: The menu changes daily and there is an interesting collection of wines
• Nannini: The café is always crowded and is considered to be something of a Sienese institution serving the finest cakes and coffee in the town

Entertainment and nightlife

The focal point of the Siena's nightlife is Piazza del Campo where people gather to listen to live music or relax in a bar. There are many pubs, wine bars, restaurants and open-air coffee shops in and around this area. Most big clubs venues, however, are outside the city. The much awaited event here is the Palio when outdoor celebrations are held and there are live bands, music, dance and special outdoor eating areas.

Golfing in Siena

Siena Golf Club Le Segalaie: The 18 hole golf club, located near the airport of Ampugnano, is surrounded by charming Tuscan hills and old farmhouses. Facilities here include pitching green, putting green, snack-bar, pro-shop, beach volley, and mini football.