8+ Best Things to Do in Siena Italy (See, Eat & More)

Some destinations talk a big game but leave you checking your watch. Siena? Not that kind of place. This city has mastered the fine art of keeping visitors completely captivated, and the endless things to do in Siena Italy are just the beginning of its charm.

Every narrow street leads to a new discovery, every historic building tells a story worth hearing, and every local interaction feels like you've stumbled into the Italy of your dreams. Siena doesn't just show you sights, it wraps you in centuries of culture and whispers, "Stay a little longer."

TravelThru is here to give you the best ideas to help you experience it all. Let’s read one and be prepared to fall deeply in love with Siena.

Best Things to Do in Siena, Italy​

1. Piazza del Campo

Right in the center of Siena, you'll find the Piazza del Campo, a really famous spot with a cool shell shape. It's divided into nine parts, which are there to remember the old Council of Nine that was around way back in the late 1200s.

While "Campo" hints at its past as a green market space, today it's Siena's central gathering place and the open-air arena for the Palio, which takes place twice a year. The square is surrounded by some of Siena's most important landmarks: the Palazzo Pubblico, the Torre del Mangia, and the beautiful Fonte Gaia, a 19th-century version of Jacopo della Quercia's 15th-century original fountain.

2. Duomo di Siena (Siena Cathedral)

Prepare to be awestruck by Siena's Duomo, an absolute must-see Siena attraction! Its striking marble facade is just a hint of the wonders inside. You'll discover a breathtaking interior featuring a unique inlaid marble floor, the vibrant Piccolomini Library, and stunning works by masters like Michelangelo.

If you're seeking truly unforgettable views over Siena, the "Porta del Cielo" rooftop tour is worth exploring. Because this cathedral is such a dazzling testament to Sienese art and history, it's definitely a highlight to include in your Italy itinerary.

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3. Torre del Mangia

To experience Siena from a vantage point, make your way to the Torre del Mangia, which stands prominently over Piazza del Campo. Yes, it's a climb (around 400 steps), but the reward is an absolutely stunning 360-degree panorama over the city's medieval rooftops and the beautiful Tuscan landscape beyond. It's an iconic Sienese experience, so consider booking ahead, especially in peak times. These views are truly one of the best things you'll do in Siena.

4. Palazzo Pubblico & Museo Civico

Another famous attraction in Siena is the Palazzo Pubblico. Think of it as Siena's historic town hall, it's where the government used to be.

You'll spot it easily because the famous Torre del Mangia is part of it. If you're planning to climb the tower, you can get a combined ticket that also lets you into the Museo Civico, which is right inside the Palazzo Pubblico.

Alternatively, a museum ticket alone costs 6 EUR (approximately $6.40 USD). Inside the museum, get ready for some amazing art and beautiful ceilings covered in frescoes. A particularly renowned piece is "The Allegory of Good and Bad Government," which consists of three paintings by the celebrated Sienese artist Ambrogio Lorenzetti.

5. Santa Maria della Scala

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Want to dig into Siena's past? For a truly historical idea of what to do in Siena, check out the Santa Maria della Scala Museum. It’s in an old hospital from the late 1100s, which used to help out pilgrims, poor folks, and orphaned kids. It was actually one of the first hospitals in Europe.

Inside, you won't want to miss Pilgrims’ Hall, especially its ceiling. It features incredible frescoes arranged in a striking geometric design. These days, the museum has displays all about Siena's history, covering everything from the Etruscans to the Renaissance. It costs 9 EUR (about $9.60 USD) to get in. If you've got the time, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Unusual things to do in Siena, Italy

6. Get Lost Wandering Siena Contrade

Siena has tons to see and do, but definitely make time to just wander around the old streets in the city center! It's one of Italy's most gorgeous medieval cities, and just getting lost in those ancient streets is a real treat.

Siena is split into 17 different neighborhoods, called "contrade." People in Siena have always been super loyal to their own neighborhood, and there's always been a big rivalry between the different contrade. Actually, each contrada even has its own horse and rider in the Palio di Siena race every summer.

Each neighborhood also has its own symbol – you might see an Eagle, a Unicorn, a Caterpillar, or a Seashell, for example. As you walk around the historic part of town, look out for flags and signs with these symbols to figure out which contrada you're in.

7. Indulge in a Sienese Cooking Class

We believe cooking classes in Italy to be an excellent way to engage with the local culture, especially its renowned culinary traditions. Joining a class with a local expert means you get to learn the secrets of regional dishes and, the best part, savor everything you've cooked afterwards.

If you're in Siena, there's a wonderful cooking class available. You'll spend several rewarding hours creating a full, delicious meal using fresh local ingredients. Imagine even making your own pasta from scratch! Afterwards, you'll get to relax and enjoy all your hard work, perfectly paired with some lovely Tuscan wine.

8. Battistero di San Giovanni

The Battistero di San Giovanni (Baptistery of St. John) might seem a bit hidden, but don't miss it! It's found under Siena's big Duomo (main church) and is a real treasure of art. Visiting it is one of the top things you can do in Siena.

When you go inside this special place, you'll see something amazing right in the middle: a beautiful baptismal font made of bronze. It has six sides.

This amazing artwork has panels made by some of the best sculptors from the Renaissance period, like Donatello and Ghiberti. These panels show scenes from the life of St. John the Baptist.

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What and Where to Eat in Siena

Must-Try Sienese Dishes

When in Siena, you absolutely have to try these local specialties:

• Pici Pasta: This is Siena's signature pasta. It’s a thick, hand-rolled pasta, a bit like fat spaghetti. You'll often find it served with simple but delicious sauces like Pici all'Aglione (a rich tomato and garlic sauce) or Pici Cacio e Pepe (cheese and pepper).

   

• Cinta Senese: This is a special local breed of pig, and the cured meats (like prosciutto and salami) or roasted pork made from it are incredibly flavorful. Keep an eye out for it on menus.

   

• Panforte & Ricciarelli: Siena is famous for its sweets. Panforte is a dense, chewy cake packed with nuts, candied fruit, and spices. Ricciarelli are soft, oval-shaped almond biscuits, often dusted with powdered sugar. Both are perfect with coffee or a dessert wine.

   

• Cantucci (Biscotti): These crunchy almond biscuits are a Tuscan classic. The traditional way to enjoy them? Dipped in Vin Santo, a sweet dessert wine.

   

• Pecorino Cheese: Tuscany is known for its sheep's milk cheese, and you'll find fantastic Pecorino around Siena, ranging from young and mild to aged and sharp.

Where to Eat and Drink in Siena

Siena has plenty of wonderful places to eat, catering to all tastes and budgets:

• Trattorias & Osterias: These are your go-to spots for authentic, traditional Sienese meals. Trattorias are often family-run and offer hearty, home-style cooking in a relaxed atmosphere. Osterias traditionally were simpler, wine-focused spots, but today the terms are often used interchangeably for charming, rustic eateries.

   

• Enotecas (Wine Bars): Perfect for a lighter meal or an afternoon break, enotecas offer a wide selection of local and regional wines, often accompanied by cheese boards, cured meats, and small snacks (crostini). It's a great way to sample Tuscan wines.

   

• Gelaterias: You can't visit Italy without indulging in gelato! Look for "artigianale" (artisanal) gelaterias for the best quality, made with fresh ingredients.

   

• Forno (Bakeries): Great for grabbing a slice of pizza al taglio (by the slice), focaccia, or Sienese sweets on the go.
   

Quick tip: Don't be afraid to wander a little off the main Piazza del Campo. Sometimes the best, most authentic (and often better value) spots are tucked away on quieter side streets.

Shopping in Siena, Italy

What to Buy

Artisan ceramics & pottery: You'll find stunning hand-painted ceramics, from rustic kitchenware adorned with olives and grapes to more elaborate Renaissance-inspired designs. These pieces, often vibrant with Tuscan yellows, blues, and greens, make for beautiful and useful souvenirs.

Leather goods: Oh, the smell of Italian leather! Siena has some fantastic shops offering high-quality leather bags, belts, wallets, and even journals. Look for items crafted with traditional techniques for a piece that will last a lifetime.

Local delicacies (to eat now or take home):

• Panforte: This dense, chewy Sienese fruitcake packed with nuts, honey, and spices is a must-try and travels well.
• Ricciarelli: Soft, oval-shaped almond biscuits, often dusted with powdered sugar – simply divine with a coffee.
• Cantucci (Biscotti): Perfect for dipping in Vin Santo (a sweet dessert wine, also a great buy!).
• Local Pasta: Look for artisanal pici pasta, a thick, hand-rolled variety typical of the area.
• Olive Oil & Saffron: Premium extra virgin olive oil from the surrounding hills and locally cultivated saffron are wonderful culinary takeaways.
   

Wine: You're in Tuscany, after all! While Brunello comes from nearby Montalcino and Chianti Classico from just a bit north, you can find excellent selections of Chianti Colli Senesi (from the Sienese hills) right in town. Many shops offer tastings and can advise on bottles that travel well.

Handmade paper & stationery: Siena has a tradition of fine paper-making. Look for elegant Florentine-style paper, leather-bound journals, or beautifully printed cards.

Contrada-themed souvenirs: If you've been captivated by the Palio and the Contrade, you'll find scarves, flags, keychains, and small ceramics bearing the emblems of the 17 city districts. These are unique to Siena and make for a very personal memento.

Linens and textiles: Beautiful Italian linens, from tablecloths to tea towels, often embroidered or printed with classic Tuscan motifs, can add an elegant touch to your home.

Best Shopping Streets & Areas

Via Banchi di Sopra: This is Siena's main shopping thoroughfare, a lively street lined with a mix of clothing boutiques, shoe stores, bookshops, and places selling local food specialties. It's great for browsing and soaking in the everyday Sienese buzz.

Via di Città: Running parallel to Banchi di Sopra, Via di Città tends to have more artisan shops, smaller boutiques, art galleries, and stores selling high-quality leather goods and ceramics. It feels a bit more historic and upscale.

Via dei Pellegrini & Via Pantaneto: These streets, branching off the main areas, are worth exploring for more local workshops, smaller artisan stores, and perhaps less tourist-focused finds. You might stumble upon a hidden gem here.

Weekly Market (Mercato della Piazzetta / La Lizza): If you're in Siena on a Wednesday morning (do check local listings for the exact day and times as it can vary), don't miss the bustling weekly market held around the Fortezza Medicea and La Lizza park. While you'll find clothes and household goods, it's also a great place for fresh produce, local cheeses, salumi, and often more budget-friendly souvenirs. It's a vibrant, authentic Sienese experience.

Things to Do in Siena Italy in One Day

You have just one day to experience the magic of Siena? It’ll be an exhilarating journey, but absolutely worth it.

Morning

To make the most of your whirlwind tour, start your morning early in the breathtaking Piazza del Campo. Seeing this iconic, shell-shaped square as it awakens, perhaps with a quick coffee in hand, is a truly special moment. If you're feeling energetic, the climb up the Torre del Mangia rewards you with unforgettable panoramic views.

Then, lose yourself in the Duomo Complex. Focus your time on the magnificent Cathedral itself, with its incredible marble floors, and don't miss the stunning Piccolomini Library. To efficiently explore key parts of the complex, consider purchasing an Opa Si Pass.

Lunch

When lunchtime arrives, keep it quick yet authentically Sienese. A delicious panino packed with local ingredients, a slice of Tuscan pizza al taglio, or a swift, satisfying plate of pici pasta at a trattoria near the Campo will refuel you without taking too much time from your exploring.

Afternoon

You can spend your afternoon meandering through Siena's medieval heart. Take a walk along the historic Via Banchi di Sopra and Via di Città, allowing yourself to soak in the distinctive atmosphere and marvel at the surrounding architecture.

We highly recommend choosing one major cultural site for a deeper dive:

• Museo Civico (inside Palazzo Pubblico): If you didn't explore it with the Torre del Mangia, dive into the history of Siena and see Lorenzetti's famous “Allegory of Good and Bad Government.”
• Pinacoteca Nazionale: For art lovers, this gallery houses masterpieces of the Sienese school.
• Basilica di San Domenico: Visit this imposing church, significant for its connection to St. Catherine of Siena, and enjoy the views from nearby.

Late afternoon

As the afternoon winds down, do as the Italians do! Find a bar, order a spritz or a glass of local wine, and enjoy the complimentary snacks. It's the perfect way to relax and people-watch.

If you time it right, find a spot (perhaps near the Basilica dei Servi or along some of the higher streets) to catch a lovely Sienese sunset.

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By now, you've probably realized that Siena isn't just another pretty face in the Tuscan crowd—it's the whole package with a side of medieval sass. This city knows exactly what it's doing, serving up centuries of culture with a smile and a glass of Chianti. 

You'll leave with a camera roll full of architectural eye candy, a stomach full of incredible food, and a heart full of that warm feeling. Trust us, the irresistible things to do in Siena, Italy, will have you planning your next visit before you've even unpacked!