A Perfect Florence to Siena Day Trip: How to Get to Siena from Florence, What to See in Siena, How to Spend One Day in Siena, What and Where to Eat in Siena and more.
Siena, a charming medieval city nestled in the heart of Tuscany, is one of the most beautiful places in Italy. Its rich history, captivating architecture, and enchanting streets make it a destination that lures travelers time and again. In fact, Siena is one of those places that visitors tend to return to, and I’m no exception. If you’re planning a day trip from Florence, Siena offers an unforgettable experience, and in this guide, I’ll take you through everything you need to know for an amazing day in this Tuscan gem and how to get there from Florence.
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Why Visit Siena?
Siena’s allure is undeniable. Known for its stunning medieval architecture, winding streets, and fascinating history, it holds a special place in Tuscany. Unlike Florence, which is filled with grand Renaissance art and architecture, Siena retains its medieval charm, offering a more intimate and laid-back atmosphere. The city is famous for its historical significance, the Palio horse race, and the magnificent Siena Cathedral, among other gems.
What is Siena Famous For?
Siena is most famous for its Palio, a thrilling and historic horse race that takes place twice each year in the Piazza del Campo. The city is also known for its beautiful cathedral (Duomo di Siena), its medieval cityscape, and its culinary delights. Its town center, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautiful maze of narrow streets, piazzas, and ancient buildings, all set against the backdrop of the Tuscan hills.
Where is Siena and How Far Is It from Florence?
Siena is located in the southern part of Tuscany, about 75 kilometers (47 miles) away from Florence. It sits among the picturesque hills of the Tuscan countryside, making Siena an ideal day trip from Florence for people who are looking to explore more of Tuscany’s charm.
How to Get to Siena from Florence
There are several ways to reach Siena from Florence, each offering a different experience. Here is how you can make a day trip to Siena from Florence:
By Bus: Buses to Siena depart from Florence’s Central Bus Station (Piazza della Stazione) and take a little bit over 1 hour. The bus is an affordable and convenient option, with regular departures throughout the day. Buses from Florence to Siena run on average 8 times per day and the tickets are available for €6 – €20. You’ll arrive at the Siena Central Bus Station, which is about a 15-minute walk from Piazza del Campo.
By Train: Trains to Siena depart from Florence’s Santa Maria Novella Train Station to Siena Train Station in Piazza Carlo Rosselli 7. Trains from Florence to Siena run on average 24 times per day, and the journey takes 2 hours on average. The tickets are available for €6 – €22. You’ll arrive at the Siena Train Station, which is about 1.5 km (a 20-minute walk or 3 minutes by bus) from the city center.
By Car: If you prefer the flexibility of driving, the trip by car takes around 1.5 hours from Florence, depending on traffic. Siena is accessible via the Raccordo Autostradale Siena-Firenze highway.I like driving in Tuscany and I always book rental cars online on Discover Car Hire.
By Tour: Several day tours to Siena are offered from Florence. These guided tours typically include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and stops at major sights, offering a stress-free way to explore the city.
Getting to Siena’s Historic center
By Bus: If you take the bus, you will arrive at the Siena Central Bus Station (Piazza Gramsci). From here, you can easily walk to the city center. The station is about a 15-minute walk to Piazza del Campo, which is the heart of Siena.
By Train: Siena’s train station, Siena Central Train Station, is located about 1.5 kilometers from the city center. You can take a bus or taxi from the station to Piazza del Campo, or enjoy a scenic walk.
Parking in Siena: If you’re driving, parking in Siena can be tricky since the historic center is pedestrian-only. However, there are several parking lots on the outskirts where you can leave your car and walk to the main attractions. Some of the best parking areas include:
- Parcheggio Il Campo: Located near the city center, it’s one of the closest parking areas.
- Parcheggio Stadio: A larger lot with more spaces, but a bit farther from the center.
- Parcheggio Santa Caterina: A 3-level garage with reasonable parking prices. A set of escalators takes you to the historic center. You will see the sign for the escalators as you exit the garage.
How to Spend One Day in Siena
With only one day in Siena, it’s important to prioritize the city’s main attractions. Here’s an itinerary to help you make the most of your visit:
1. Start with the Piazza del Campo
Start your day at Piazza del Campo, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. This iconic shell-shaped piazza is where the famous Palio horse race is held twice a year. In the center of the square, you’ll find the Fonte Gaia, a beautiful fountain. Take time to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and soak in the historic charm of the surroundings.
2. Climb the Torre del Mangia
Next, head to the Torre del Mangia, the tall medieval tower located in Piazza del Campo. For a small fee, you can climb the 400+ steps to the top for a stunning panoramic view of Siena and the Tuscan countryside. The climb is challenging, but the view is absolutely worth it. Climbing the Tore del Mangia is one of the best things to do in Siena. Don’t miss it out!
Ticket Info: Entrance is around €10, and the tower is open on weekdays and holidays from 10 am to 7 pm (March-October 15) and from 10 am to 4 pm (October 16 -February). The ticket office is inside the Palazzo Publico in the Piazza del Campo.
3. Visit the Civic Museum (Museo Civico)
While you’re in Piazza del Campo, visit the Civic Museum located inside the Palazzo Pubblico. This museum houses remarkable artworks, including frescoes depicting Siena’s history. It’s an important site for those who want to learn more about the city’s rich cultural heritage. The Civic Museum is next to the Torre del Mangia and I recommend visiting it for its spectacular frescoes.
Ticket Info: The ticket office is the same for the Torre Mangia. Admission is around €9. However, there are two cumulative tickets (valid for 2 days) to consider buying:
Museo Civico + Santa Maria della Scala: € 13.00 and
Torre del Mangia + Museo Civico + Santa Maria della Scala: € 20.00.
I recommend buying the latter.
Open daily from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
4. Enjoy Lunch at Antica Trattoria Papei
For lunch, head to Antica Trattoria Papei, a historic trattoria that has been serving classic Tuscan meals since the 1950s. This inexpensive and authentic trattoria is close to the Piazza del Campo and is known for its hearty dishes, including ribollita (a traditional Tuscan soup) and gnocchi with butter and sage.
Recommendation: Don’t miss the crostini di fegatini, a local liver pate served on toasted bread.
5. Tour the Siena Duomo Complex
After lunch, make your way to the Siena Duomo Complex, which includes the stunning Duomo di Siena (Siena Cathedral), the Piccolomini Library, and the Crypt. The cathedral’s striking black-and-white striped marble facade is a must-see, and the interior is equally magnificent, featuring artworks by Donatello, Michelangelo, and Pinturicchio. For one day in Siena, I recommend getting the OPA SI PASS. This pass gives access to the Duomo, the Crypt, the Baptistery, Piccolomini Library, the Museo dell’Opera, the Oratory, and the Facciatone Viewpoint. It is a must-buy in advance because of the huge demand! I recommend getting this OPA SI PASS audio guide.
Ticket Info: Entry to the Duomo and associated sites is around €15. Tickets are available on the site. However, you need to get the tickets in advance if you are on a Siena day trip. The Duomo is open from 10:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
6. Visit Santa Maria della Scala
The Santa Maria della Scala Museum, across the Duom of Sienna, has a big Etruscan, medieval, Renaissance, and modern art collection. It covers the artworks of a thousand years of history of Siena. The museum is worth of visiting and receives about 250.000 visitors a year.
Ticket Info: Entry is covered by the Torre del Mangia + Museo Civico + Santa Maria della Scala (€ 20.00) ticket.
7. Explore the Secret Corners of Siena
Take some time to explore the winding streets of Siena. From its picturesque alleys to its hidden piazzas, wandering is a delightful way to experience the city’s charm. You will stumble upon little shops, cafes, and local markets that will make a long lasting memory of your Florence to Siena day trip.
7. Have Dinner at Antica Osteria da Divo
For dinner, head to Antica Osteria da Divo, located in a former Etruscan cave. This restaurant offers a delicious variety of Tuscan dishes, including homemade pasta, wild boar stew, and local cheeses. The setting adds an unforgettable atmosphere to your meal.
Recommended Tours in Siena
To make the most of your Florence to Siena day trip, consider these Siena guided tours:
- Siena Walking Tour and Skip-the-Line Duomo Tickets (2 hours)
- Siena Walking Tour with Cathedral and Crypt & Museum Option (3 hours with OPA SI Pass)
- Organic Winery Tour and Wine Tasting (2.5 hours)
- Pasta and Tiramisu Class at a Local’s Home (3 hours)
Tips for Visiting Siena
- Wear comfortable shoes: Siena’s streets are often cobblestone and hilly, so prepare for a lot of walking.
- Plan ahead for tickets: For major attractions like the Duomo, it’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines. Buy the OPA SI PASS audio tour.
- Take your time: Siena has a relaxed pace, so don’t rush. Take in the sights, enjoy the food, and savor the Tuscan atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Siena if You Decide to Prolong Your Visit
Siena is among the most beautiful cities in Italy. It wouldn’be surprise if you fall in love with it and decide to stay a day or two.
Consider staying in Palazzo Ravizza, a beautiful historic hotel in the heart of Siena. The hotel has a stylish setting and the rooms are elegantly furnished. Its garden provides breathtaking views of the green hills of Tuscany! The hotel offers free private parking and an exceptional breakfast.
Is a Day Trip to Siena from Florence Worth It?
Absolutely! Siena is one of the most beautiful and historically rich cities in Tuscany. Whether you’re a lover of history, art, or food, or simply want to enjoy a peaceful day in the Tuscan countryside, a day trip to Siena from Florence is definitely worth it. With its stunning sights, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable charm, Siena will leave you longing to return.
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