Siena is a city that captures the heart and imagination, offering a blend of history, art, and serene beauty. Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your three days in Siena, while also leaving room for personal discoveries and spontaneous adventures.
Day 1: The Essentials
Piazza del Campo: Start your day at the heart of Siena having a coffee while taking in the beauty of the “square”. This shell-shaped piazza is one of the most beautiful in Italy.
Palazzo Pubblico and Museo Civico: Explore the civic museum inside the Palazzo Pubblico. The Palace, a symbol of the independence and wealth of Siena is one of the most important examples of civil Gothic architecture in the world and a treasure chest of works of art. A number of the most beautiful rooms belong to the Civic Museum and are open to the public: the Sala del Mappamondo (Room of the world map) with the Conquista del castello di Giuncarico (Conquest of the Giuncarico Castle), the last work of Duccio di Buoninsegna (1315-1320), the Maestà (1315-1321) and the Guidoriccio (1328-1329) by Simone Martini.
Torre del Mangia If you have the energy you may like to visit the Torre del Mangia (1325-1349): a climb of over 400 steps – the tower is 87 metres high – rewards you with a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding countryside.
Head to the Duomo- Leave Piazza del Campo from the Costarella dei Barbieri exit which leads into via di Città, one of the most important streets of the city centre, lined with beautiful buildings, shops and workshops. Look into the courtyard of the Palazzo Chigi Saracini, rich with history and home to the Accademia Musicale Chigiana, one of the most prestigious music schools in the world. The building itself also deserves a visit.
At the end of via di Città, turn right into via del Capitano and carry on until you reach Piazza del Duomo with its many unmissable works of art.
To the right, in the piazza Jacopo della Quercia there are the remains of the “Duomo Nuovo” which the inhabitants of Siena tried to build before the 1348 plague but the soil gave way and they were forced abandon the project. The floor of the Duomo (entirely uncovered and visible from mid August until mid October) is a “picture Bible” with 56 inlaid marble squares produced between 1369 and 1547, based upon designs by great artists such as Matteo di Giovanni and Domenico Beccafumi. Inside the Duomo there are numerous masterpieces: the Piccolomini Library completely frescoed by Pinturicchio, the pulpit of Nicola and Giovanni Pisano and works by some of the greatest artists of the time such as Donatello, Michelangelo, Bernini.
In front of the Duomo we find the ancient Ospedale di Santa Maria della Scala, one of the oldest hospitals in Europe which sprung up along the Via Francigena to give assistance to pilgrims making their way to Rome. Today, Santa Maria is a museum complex which houses the Library and Photo Gallery of Giuliano Briganti, the Childrens’ Art Musuem, in addition to both temporary and permanent exhibitions. The basement rooms are home to the Museum of Archeology.
Places to visit:
Duomo Complex https://operaduomo.siena.it/en/
- Siena Cathedral (Duomo)
- Baptistery of San Giovanni
- Panorama View & New Cathedral
- Crypt
- Museum
- Piccolomini Museum
- Oratory of San Bernardino
Santa Maria della Scala https://www.santamariadellascala.com/
Follow up your busy day with dinner at a Local Trattoria/Osteria. Experience traditional Sienese cuisine. Try dishes like pici pasta, ribollita, or wild boar stew.
After dinner, head back to Piazza del Campo for a gelato and a stroll.
Day 2: Beyond the Basics
Today enjoy a different type of Siena.
The Basilica di San Domenico and the Sanctuary of Santa Caterina are two significant religious sites in Siena, Italy, both dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena.
Basilica di San Domenico https://santacaterina.siena.it/the-basilica-of-san-domenico/?lang=en
The Basilica di San Domenico, also known as Basilica Cateriniana, is a prominent Gothic church in Siena. Here’s what makes it noteworthy:
- Relics of St. Catherine of Siena: The church is renowned for housing several important relics of St. Catherine, including her head and thumb. These relics are kept in a chapel to the right of the nave.
- Stark Gothic Architecture: The basilica’s architecture is a fine example of Gothic design. It features a simple, stark exterior with a brick facade, which contrasts with the more ornate interiors typical of Gothic churches.
- Historical Significance: Built in the 13th century by the Dominicans, the church played a crucial role in the religious life of Siena. Its association with St. Catherine, one of the most important figures in Catholic history, adds to its historical and spiritual significance.
- Art and Frescoes: Inside, the basilica is adorned with several beautiful frescoes, including those depicting scenes from the life of St. Catherine. These artworks provide insight into the religious and artistic heritage of Siena.
Sanctuary of Santa Caterina https://santacaterina.siena.it/the-shrine-of-the-house-of-saint-catherine/?lang=en
- The Sanctuary of Santa Caterina is a complex of chapels and rooms that commemorate the life of St. Catherine of Siena. Highlights include:
- Dedication to St. Catherine: The sanctuary is dedicated to St. Catherine, who was born in Siena in 1347. It serves as a pilgrimage site for those who wish to honor her memory and learn more about her life and works.
- Series of Chapels and Rooms: The sanctuary consists of various chapels and rooms that are connected to different aspects of St. Catherine’s life. This includes her family home, the oratory where she prayed, and rooms where she experienced her mystical visions.
- Spiritual and Historical Importance: The sanctuary provides a deeper understanding of St. Catherine’s spiritual journey and her contributions to the church. It is a place of reflection and devotion, attracting visitors who are interested in her legacy.
- Architectural Elements: While less grandiose than the Basilica di San Domenico, the Sanctuary of Santa Caterina features significant architectural elements that reflect its historical context and the life of the saint.
Both sites are integral to the cultural and religious fabric of Siena, offering visitors a chance to connect with the city’s rich spiritual history and the legacy of one of its most revered saints.
We highly suggest lunch at Grotta di Santa Caterina da Bagoga http://www.ristorantebagoga.it/new/
After lunch, a bit more history.
Pinacoteca Nazionale: https://www.pinacotecanazionalesiena.it/ The Pinacoteca Nazionale is a premier art museum that holds a rich collection of artworks, particularly from the Sienese School. Here are some of the key features and significance of this esteemed museum:
Key Features and Significance of the Pinacoteca Nazionale
Extensive Collection
- Medieval and Renaissance Art: The museum boasts an extensive collection of paintings from the 12th to the 16th centuries, showcasing the evolution of artistic styles and techniques over this period.
- Sienese School: The Pinacoteca Nazionale is particularly noted for its focus on the Sienese School, an important movement in Italian art known for its refined elegance, vibrant colors, and detailed iconography.
Notable Artists
- Duccio di Buoninsegna: Often considered the father of Sienese painting, Duccio’s works in the museum include delicate altarpieces and religious scenes that demonstrate his mastery of line and color.
- Simone Martini: A key figure in Gothic art, Martini’s paintings are celebrated for their grace and lyrical beauty.
- Ambrogio Lorenzetti: Known for his innovative use of perspective and detailed cityscapes, Lorenzetti’s works provide insight into the civic and religious life of Siena.
- Giovanni di Paolo: His paintings are characterized by their mystical quality and intricate details, reflecting the spiritual intensity of the time.
Highlights of the Collection
- Maestà by Duccio di Buoninsegna: This iconic work, a large altarpiece originally created for the Siena Cathedral, is one of the museum’s most treasured pieces.
- Annunciation by Simone Martini and Lippo Memmi: A masterpiece of Gothic art, this painting exemplifies the refined elegance and emotional depth of the Sienese School.
- Allegories by Ambrogio Lorenzetti: His famous frescoes, including “The Allegory of Good and Bad Government,” although not housed in the Pinacoteca, are complemented by smaller works in the museum that reflect his thematic concerns and stylistic innovations.
Historical and Cultural Significance
- Preservation of Sienese Heritage: The Pinacoteca Nazionale plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting the artistic heritage of Siena. It provides a comprehensive view of the city’s contributions to the broader narrative of Italian and European art.
- Educational Resource: The museum serves as an important educational resource, offering insights into the techniques, themes, and historical context of medieval and Renaissance art. It attracts scholars, students, and art enthusiasts from around the world.
- Architectural Setting: Housed in the Palazzo Buonsignori and Palazzo Brigidi, the museum itself is a historical landmark. These palaces add to the aesthetic and historical experience of visiting the Pinacoteca.
In summary, the Pinacoteca Nazionale in Siena is a treasure trove of medieval and Renaissance art, offering a deep dive into the rich artistic traditions of the Sienese School. Its extensive collection, featuring works by some of the most renowned artists of the time, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and beauty of Italian art.
Church of San Francesco https://visitsienaofficial.it/en/the-basilica-of-san-francesco/ in Siena is a significant historical and artistic landmark.
Architectural and Historical Significance
- •Gothic Architecture: The Church of San Francesco is an excellent example of Gothic architecture, characterized by its tall, spacious nave and pointed arches. Construction began in the mid-13th century and was completed in the early 14th century.
- Historical Importance: The church has been an important religious site for centuries, associated with the Franciscan Order. It reflects the Franciscan ideals of simplicity and devotion.
Artistic Highlights
- Beautiful Frescoes: One of the most remarkable features of the Church of San Francesco is its collection of frescoes. Although some were damaged over the centuries, many have been restored and still convey their original beauty and spiritual messages.
- Early Renaissance Frescoes: The church houses frescoes by early Renaissance artists, which depict various biblical scenes and saints. These frescoes are significant for their artistic quality and historical value.
- Lorenzetti Brothers: Works by Pietro and Ambrogio Lorenzetti, prominent Sienese painters, can be found here. Their frescoes are known for their detailed narrative style and vivid expressions.
Serene Cloisters
- Peaceful Atmosphere: The cloisters of San Francesco offer a serene and contemplative environment. These open-air corridors surround a central courtyard and provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
- Architectural Beauty: The cloisters are notable for their elegant arches and well-preserved medieval architecture. They are an excellent place to appreciate the design and craftsmanship of the period.
Visiting Experience
- Spiritual Ambiance: Visitors often remark on the church’s tranquil and spiritual ambiance. The combination of its architectural grandeur and serene cloisters makes it a place of reflection and calm.
- Cultural Insight: A visit to the Church of San Francesco offers insight into the religious and cultural history of Siena. It showcases the importance of the Franciscan Order in the region and the artistic achievements of the time.
Day 3: Hidden Gems and Leisure
Walk through the Contrade: Explore the 17 different contrade (neighborhoods) of Siena. Each has its own unique symbols and colors, reflecting the city’s rich history. We have scavenger hunt, find ll of the fountains, take a picture of yourselves at them, post on your preferred social media and tag us to win a bottle of wine. You can read abou the contrade on our blog https://aiolina.com/the-palio-of-siena-and-its-contrade-2/
Botanical Garden: A lesser-known gem, this garden is perfect for a leisurely stroll among rare plants and beautiful landscapes.
Explore the Streets and Alleyways: Allow yourself to get lost in the narrow, winding streets of Siena. Discover hidden corners, local shops, and charming cafés.
Piazza del Campo at Sunset* Return to Piazza del Campo to witness the changing colors of the buildings as the sun sets. Enjoy a drink at a café and soak in the lively atmosphere.
Tips for an Enriching Visit
- •Flexibility: Feel free to modify the itinerary based on your interests. Spend more time in places that captivate you and explore spontaneously.
- Seasonal Variations: The atmosphere in Siena changes with the seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
- Local Events: Check for local events or festivals, such as the Palio di Siena, which can provide unique experiences and insights into Sienese culture.
- Travel Companions: Share your experiences with friends and invite them to explore Siena with you. Your stories might inspire their own adventures.
- Market day is on Wednesday so if you happen to be here, that may be fun.
Siena is a city that reveals its beauty slowly, with each visit offering new discoveries. Enjoy your journey and let the city’s charm leave a lasting impression.