Siena Tours & Holidays 2022 | Newmarket Holidays

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JOIN US ON A HOLIDAY TO SIENA

With incredible views thanks to its hilltop setting and rich medieval history, Siena is one of central Italy's most charming destinations.

This beguiling Tuscan town is decidedly more mellow than nearby Florence, but still offers plenty to delight visitors. Wander the atmospheric centre, set inside the city's ancient walls, before refuelling at a cafe in the grand Piazza del Campo. With an abundance of alluring scenery and narrow cobbled streets to explore, Siena holidays are sure to thrill.

Originally established by Roman emperor Augustus, Siena was a major city in the 12th and 13th centuries, covering an area as large as Paris. Today it has a rather more relaxed demeanour, although its long and rich history is still very much on display in the architecture and art collections of many of its monuments. The city is formed of 17 different districts, or contrade, each with its own church, museum and animal motif, as well as an array of shops and restaurants. Discover the strong local spirit and fascinating past of this remarkable city, as well as its unique neighbourhoods, on our expertly crafted Siena escorted tours.

Tuscany

3.97 (198 reviews)
Italy

14 meals included
The chance to stroll around Montecatini
Excellent shopping and a fine array of restaurants
Enjoy a host of wellness therapies and treatments

Things to see in Siena

The city's 14th-century tower, Torre del Mangia, overlooks the main square and makes for an imposing sight. Those brave enough to climb the narrow 330 stairs are rewarded with incredible views over the city.

The Battistero di San Giovanni, or the Florence Baptistery, features a curious octagonal design and houses 15th-century frescoes, beautiful mosaics, and bronze panels detailing the life of St John the Baptist.

Put on twice every summer, the Siena Palio is a bareback horse race that has been held in the city since the 13th century. Ten of the city's 17 contrade are chosen to participate in the event, which is surrounded by medieval pageantry and a joyful festival atmosphere.

Things to do in Siena

Visit the complex of Santa Maria della Scala, a former hospital dating back to the 13th century. Today the site offers a vast array of rooms and buildings to explore, including the National Archaeological Museum and the glorious Santissima Annunziata church.

Completed in the 14th century, the Palazzo Pubblico was designed to showcase the city's extraordinary wealth. Today parts of this extravagant town hall, still home to the city's administration, can be viewed on a visit to the Museo Civico.

An important stop on all Siena tours, the Duomo di Siena has a history dating back to the 12th century and remains an exquisitely decorated cathedral brimming with art, including sculptures by Michelangelo and Donatello.

Food and Drink in Siena

Tuscan food typically revolves around simple, local ingredients cooked well.

The cuisine in Siena adheres to this principle. Traditional Sienese dishes include pappardelle alla lepre, ribbon pasta with hare; scottiglia, slow-cooked meats in tomato sauce; and crostini neri, liver on toasted bread.

Panforte di Siena, or 'Siena Cake', is said to date back to the 13th century and remains a popular dessert today. Ingredients including dried fruit, nuts, honey, syrup and a variety of spices are added to the mixture, giving it a dense texture and delicious flavour.

Having been the social heart of the city since the 12th century, the Piazza del Campo, or 'Il Campo' is lined with cafes and restaurants that provide prime relaxation opportunities.