Museo della Carta
Centro Storico
Explore the history of paper-making, a unique craft of Siena.
Logistics: Free entry, open 10am-5pm (closed Tuesdays).
Updated: 2025-10
Highlights
Siena — Top 10 Highlights
Explore the essentials of Siena with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.
Did you know?
Start in Siena, then head to Monte Amiata for a sunrise hike. You’ll feel the cool morning air as you climb the gentle slopes, the scent of pine mingling with the distant bells of the city’s cathedral. From there, a short drive takes you into the rolling Val d'Orcia, where golden vineyards stretch to the horizon and the sky turns a soft blue. A few hours later you can wander along the quiet shores of Lake Trasimeno, listening to the splash of a lone swan and tasting the fresh, briny air. On the way back, stop at the Abbazia di San Galgano, where the ruined cloister still whispers stories of monks and medieval battles. When you’re ready, wander further into the Tuscan hills and let the landscape surprise you.
Why go — quick legend
- Monte Amiata — Climb for panoramic views of Tuscany and volcanic landsca…
- Val d'Orcia — Stroll through rolling hills that inspired Renaissance pa…
- Parco Naturale della Maremma — Explore diverse habitats from dunes to wetlands.
- Lake Trasimeno — Row or bike around Italy’s fourth largest lake.
- Colle di Val d'Elsa — Visit crystal workshops and historic streets.
- Abbazia di San Galgano — Explore the dramatic, roofless ruins that echo the abbey’…
- Siena Cathedral — Witness the soaring nave and intricate mosaics that celeb…
- Piazza del Campo — Stroll through the shell shaped square that hosts the fam…
- Palazzo Pubblico — Tour the historic seat of Siena’s republic, admiring its …
- Basilica di San Domenico — Marvel at the basilica’s soaring arches and revered relic…
Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.
Legend
Why go — quick legend
- Monte Amiata — Climb for panoramic views of Tuscany and volcanic landsca…
- Val d'Orcia — Stroll through rolling hills that inspired Renaissance pa…
- Parco Naturale della Maremma — Explore diverse habitats from dunes to wetlands.
- Lake Trasimeno — Row or bike around Italy’s fourth largest lake.
- Colle di Val d'Elsa — Visit crystal workshops and historic streets.
- Abbazia di San Galgano — Explore the dramatic, roofless ruins that echo the abbey’…
- Siena Cathedral — Witness the soaring nave and intricate mosaics that celeb…
- Piazza del Campo — Stroll through the shell shaped square that hosts the fam…
- Palazzo Pubblico — Tour the historic seat of Siena’s republic, admiring its …
- Basilica di San Domenico — Marvel at the basilica’s soaring arches and revered relic…
Siena — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)
Swipe to see more columns →
| # / Name | Why go | Significance | Since | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Abbadia San Salvatore · Tuscany | Climb for panoramic views of Tuscany and volcanic landscapes. | Largest lava dome, offers geological insight into the Amiata complex. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Montalcino · Tuscany | Stroll through rolling hills that inspired Renaissance painters. | Iconic Tuscan countryside, celebrated in art and photography. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Grosseto · Tuscany | Explore diverse habitats from dunes to wetlands. | Protects 9,000 hectares of Mediterranean ecosystem and wildlife corridors. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Magione · Umbria | Row or bike around Italy’s fourth largest lake. | Unique closed basin, rich in history and ecological diversity. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Colle di Val d'Elsa · Tuscany | Visit crystal workshops and historic streets. | Renowned for glassmaking heritage and medieval architecture. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Chiusdino · Tuscany | Explore the dramatic, roofless ruins that echo the abbey’s Cistercian past. | Its Gothic walls illustrate medieval monastic architecture and the region’s religious history. | 13th c. | Cultural Heritage |
Siena · Tuscany | Witness the soaring nave and intricate mosaics that celebrate Siena’s devotion to Mary. | The cathedral embodies the city’s spiritual heritage and architectural evolution from Romanesque to Gothic. | 12th c. | Cultural Heritage |
Siena · Tuscany | Stroll through the shell shaped square that hosts the famed Palio horse race and offers panoramic city views. | Its medieval layout and surrounding palazzi showcase Siena’s civic pride and urban design. | 13th c. | Cultural Heritage |
Siena · Tuscany | Tour the historic seat of Siena’s republic, admiring its frescoed halls and the iconic Torre del Mangia. | The palace reflects the city’s political power and artistic patronage during the Middle Ages. | 1297 | Outdoor |
Siena · Tuscany | Marvel at the basilica’s soaring arches and revered relics, a spiritual center for locals and pilgrims. | Its Cistercian Gothic style and treasured artworks highlight Siena’s religious and artistic legacy. | 13th c. | Cultural Heritage |
“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.
Hidden gems · Insider picks
Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special
Casa di Santa Caterina
Centro Storico
Discover local art and crafts in a historic 14th‑century building.
Logistics: Tickets €5, open 9am-6pm (closed Wednesdays).
Updated: 2025-10
Cappella di San Francesco
Monastero di San Francesco
Intimate view of medieval frescoes and quiet reflection.
Logistics: Free entry, inside the Franciscan monastery, open 9am-5pm.
Updated: 2025-10
When to go
Sightseeing & Cultural ImmersionApr–Jun: warm, dry weather, fewer tourists, ideal for wandering Siena's historic streets and catching the Palio.
Wine & Culinary ExplorationJul–Aug: hot but vibrant, higher prices, great for sampling Chianti in the hills and dining at open‑air trattorias.
Budget & Off‑Season CharmOct–Nov: cooler temperatures, minimal crowds, cheaper stays, perfect for quiet walks and local festivals.
Winter & Cozy AtmosphereDec–Feb: mild winters, festive lights, lower rates, suitable for cafés and nearby mountain day trips.
Spring Blossom & Outdoor FunMar–Apr: blooming countryside, pleasant temperatures, moderate crowds, great for hiking Val d'Orcia and enjoying outdoor concerts.
Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.
Family picks
Three kid-friendly wins—mix of attractions, activities, or stays
Siena Cathedral
$Historic Center
Attraction6–12Updated: 2025-09
Kids can explore the cathedral’s art and climb the bell tower for a city view.
Logistics: Open daily 9am-7pm. Entry free, guided tours at 10am and 2pm. Strollers allowed.
Parco di Santa Caterina
FreeSiena City Center
Activity3–10Updated: 2025-09
A playground with swings, a pond, and a small train ride for kids.
Logistics: Open 24/7. Free entry. Bring snacks. Strollers welcome.
Museo della Carta
$Historic Center
Attraction5–12Updated: 2025-09
Interactive paper‑making displays let kids learn about Siena’s paper history.
Logistics: Open Tue–Sun 10am-6pm. Entry $5. Strollers allowed.
Where to eat (Lunch)
Three easy picks by budget — quick to decide, easy to book
Osteria Le Logge
€€Centro Storico
Traditional Tuscan dishes in a historic setting.
Updated: 2025-10-09
Trattoria La Taverna di San Francesco
€Centro Storico
Cozy, affordable, authentic local cuisine.
Updated: 2025-10-09
Ristorante La Pergola
€€€Centro Storico
Elegant dining with panoramic city views.
Updated: 2025-10-09
Where to sleep
Location first, then value and consistency
Hotel Athena
€€€Centro Storico
Luxury rooms with historic charm and modern amenities.
Updated: 2025-10-09
Hotel La Colomba
€€Centro Storico
Comfortable stay, central location, excellent service.
Updated: 2025-10-09
B&B La Casa di Maria
€Centro Storico
Cozy, budget-friendly, friendly host.
Updated: 2025-10-09
Safety: practical snapshot
Overall call
Siena offers historic charm; stay alert to petty theft, traffic, and seasonal weather.
- Pickpocketing in crowded historic streets.
- Traffic hazards on narrow cobblestone roads.
- Slippery stairs and uneven sidewalks.
- Tourist scams at popular sites.
- Heat exhaustion during summer afternoons.
How to travel it safely
- Keep wallets in front pockets or zipped bags.
- Use official taxis or ride share apps for late night travel.
- Wear sturdy shoes; avoid loose sandals on cobblestones.
- Stay hydrated; carry a water bottle in summer.
- Check local weather forecasts before outdoor plans.
- Report suspicious activity to local police immediately.
- Avoid carrying large sums of cash; use credit cards.
Emergency: In emergencies dial 112 for police, fire, or medical help.
Information may change; verify locally.
Top links
Accurate, high-signal sources for Siena.
Published: Oct 9, 2025•Updated: Oct 9, 2025