Rome to Siena Day Trip

What to See in Siena: Must-Visit Spots and How to Enjoy Them

Once you arrive in Siena, the city’s magical energy draws you in. With dramatic towers, medieval charm, and atmospheric piazzas, it’s perfect for both wandering and checking off iconic sights. Here are the best things you shouldn’t miss:

Piazza del Campo

The heart of Siena, Piazza del Campo is a massive shell-shaped square famed for its unique sloping design and vibrant energy. It hosts the legendary Palio horse race every July and August, but on any day, locals and travelers gather here to relax and soak up the Tuscan sun. Admire the panoramic view, snap photos of the stunning fountain called Fonte Gaia, and enjoy people-watching from a sunny café.

• Address: Il Campo, 53100 Siena SI, Italy
• Opening hours: Always open
• Admission: Free

Torre del Mangia

Towering over Piazza del Campo, the Torre del Mangia is Siena’s proud symbol. The bell tower rises 87 meters (about 102 meters with its lantern top), and boasts over 400 steps you can climb for an unforgettable, bird’s-eye view of the city’s rooftops and hills. It’s a workout, but absolutely worth it for those panoramic photos!

• Address: Il Campo, 1, 53100 Siena SI
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (seasonal variations may apply)
• Admission: €10.00
• Official Torre del Mangia Tickets

Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena)

An icon of Tuscan Gothic architecture, the Siena Cathedral dazzles with its stripes of black and white marble and intricate façade. Inside, you’ll discover masterpieces by Donatello, Michelangelo, Bernini, and stunning inlaid marble floors. Sometimes, protective covers hide the marble mosaics, check ahead if you want to see them!

• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 8, 53100 Siena SI
• Opening hours: Usually 10:30 AM – 5:00 PM (seasonal)
• Admission: Cathedral-only ticket: €14–16 (when floors are uncovered). The OPA-Si Pass covers all sites and ranges €14–21 depending on season.
• Official Duomo Tickets

Museo dell’Opera

Located next to the Duomo, this renowned museum is filled with sculptures, altarpieces, and original masterpieces (including Duccio’s famed Maestà). The OPA-Si Pass covers your entry and includes access to the rooftop viewpoint at Facciatone for one more epic panorama.

• Address: Piazza del Duomo, 8, 53100 Siena SI
• Opening hours: Usually 10:30 AM – 6:00 PM
• Admission: Included with OPA-Si Pass
• Official Museum Tickets

Basilica of San Domenico

A massive and peaceful church from the 13th century, the Basilica holds relics of Saint Catherine, Siena’s beloved patron. Admire the soaring brickwork, tranquil ambiance, and sacred art, but please keep noise and cameras to a minimum out of respect.

• Address: Piazza S. Domenico, 1, 53100 Siena SI
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Admission: Free

Palazzo Pubblico and Civic Museum

Overlooking Piazza del Campo, this elegant Gothic town hall showcases Siena’s civic pride. Inside, visit the Civic Museum and see frescoes like Lorenzetti’s Allegory of Good and Bad Government, revealing Siena’s unforgettable medieval past.

• Address: Il Campo, 1, 53100 Siena SI
• Opening hours: Typically 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Admission: €6.00
• Official Civic Museum Tickets

What to Eat in Siena: Local Delicacies

• Pici: A thick, hand-rolled Tuscan pasta usually served with peppery or meaty sauces.
• Panforte: A chewy medieval dessert with honey, nuts, and candied fruit. Dense and delicious!
• Ricciarelli: Soft almond cookies, perfect with dessert wine.
• Chianti: Tuscany’s world-famous red wine, don’t leave without a taste!

Your Perfect One-Day Siena Itinerary from Rome

Morning: Arrive and Explore

Aim for an early start! If you’re taking the bus, you’ll get to Siena quickly and refreshed. For trains, catch the earliest departure from Roma Termini (with a quick change in Chiusi or Florence). After the scenic ride, use local escalators or a taxi from the station to reach the heart of the old town.

1. Start at Piazza del Campo, soaking up the city’s soul and grabbing a pastry or coffee.
2. Climb Torre del Mangia for sweeping city and countryside views.
3. Pop into Palazzo Pubblico and view stunning Sienese frescoes.

Afternoon: Art, Architecture, and Food

4. Savor a Tuscan lunch! Taste pici pasta, panforte, or a hearty soup like ribollita at a trattoria near the piazza.
5. Marvel at the Duomo di Siena and its incredible marble mosaic floor and art.
6. Visit the Museo dell’Opera to see historic treasures, then ascend the Facciatone terrace for another unforgettable view.

Evening: Leisure, Sweets, and Return

7. Stroll to Basilica di San Domenico for quiet reflection and beautiful art.
8. Wrap up with a sunset drink or gelato at Piazza del Campo, people-watching as the city glows.
9. Before you head back to Rome, stop at a local pasticceria for ricciarelli or cantucci to savor on your journey.
10. Check the bus or train schedules, last trains to Florence generally leave around 9:20 p.m., so you can enjoy dinner before you head back to Rome.

Tips for a Smooth Trip

• Siena’s medieval center is hilly and mainly pedestrianized, wear comfy shoes!
• If taking the train, station-to-center is an uphill walk; use the convenient escalators for an easier climb.
• Book main attraction tickets in advance during high season.

From its magical medieval lanes to its mouthwatering treats, Siena is an unforgettable chapter in your Italian adventure. Whether you’re after art, history, food, or simply new experiences, this Tuscan gem delivers. Book your tickets, pack your sense of curiosity, and prepare for a day trip you’ll remember for years to come!