17 Best Things to Do in Siena, Italy (2024 Travel Guide)

Check out the best of Siena, Italy, with our top 17 things to do. If you love history, food, or travel, this 2024 travel guide has you covered. Discover must-see spots and hidden gems that make Siena unforgettable.

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Siena Awaits: Medieval Magic in Tuscany

Siena is well worth visiting if you’re in Italy. This medieval pearl in Tuscany is full of history and culture. Visit the Siena Cathedral (a fine example of Italian Gothic architecture), the famous shell-shaped Piazza del Campo – with the Palio horse race taking place twice a year – and the surrounding stunning landscape offers epic views from the Torre del Mangia.

Don’t miss the inside of the Palazzo Pubblico, with its excellent museum and cycle of spectacular frescoes. Or take a cooking class or a vineyard wine tour. The atmospheric center of Siena is entirely pedestrianized, which makes it a joy to stroll the city center, enjoy the medieval feel in narrow alleys, and appreciate the lively yet ambling local pace.

Siena Spotlight: Why This Italian City Steals the Show

Siena, in Tuscany, Italy, rocks medieval architecture, cool traditions, and a rich history. Here are six things that stand out.

1. Palio di Siena

Siena's big event is the Palio di Siena, a wild horse race held twice a year on July 2nd and August 16th. This race dates back to the 17th century. It involves 17 districts (contrade) racing around Piazza del Campo. It's intense and colorful, showing off Siena's community spirit and traditions.

2. Piazza del Campo

Piazza del Campo is Siena's heart. This shell-shaped square hosts the Palio. It's a social and cultural hub, with spots like Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia offering city views.

3. Siena Cathedral

The Duomo di Siena, or Siena Cathedral, is a Gothic masterpiece. Built between the 12th and 14th centuries, it has a striking façade, intricate sculptures, and frescoes. Inside, you'll find the Piccolomini Library and a detailed marble floor.

4. Art and Museums

Siena is rich in art. The Pinacoteca Nazionale has a vast collection, including works by Duccio di Buoninsegna, Simone Martini, and Ambrogio Lorenzetti. The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo showcases masterpieces originally from the cathedral.

5. Culinary Delights

Siena's cuisine is pure Tuscany. Try pici, a thick hand-rolled pasta, often with cacio e pepe or wild boar ragù. Chianina beef is also a local favorite. Don't miss sweets like ricciarelli and panforte, especially during festive seasons.

6. Surrounding Countryside

The countryside around Siena, especially the Chianti region, is known for vineyards and scenic views. Enjoy wine tastings and tours, exploring Tuscany's rich wine heritage.

Where is Siena, Italy?

Siena sits in central Italy (Tuscany region) about 43 miles (approximately 69.2 kilometers) south of Florence. It's in this hilly spot between the Arbia, Elsa, and Merse rivers. The area has rolling landscapes and great views, surrounded by the Chianti, Montagnola Senese, and Crete Senesi hills. Geologically, it's part of the Northern Apennines, which has seen a lot of activity over millions of years. The land here is mostly sedimentary rocks from the Cenozoic era, shaped by the Apennine orogeny.

Siena, Italy Map

You can find Siena on the map at around 43.3186° N and 11.3317° E.

Siena's Origins: Legends, History, and Founding Fathers

Siena, Italy, has a cool origin story. Legend says Senius and Aschius, Remus' sons, founded it after fleeing Rome. They brought along a statue of the Capitoline Wolf, now a symbol of Siena. But the real story points to the Etruscans, who settled there around 900-400 BCE. Then the Romans set up a military colony called Saena Julia around 30 AD under Emperor Augustus.

Medieval Prosperity and Rivalry with Florence

In the 12th century, Siena became self-governing. This sparked a rivalry with Florence over trade and territory. In 1260, Siena's army beat Florence at the Battle of Montaperti.

Golden Age: Economic and Artistic Flourishing

The 13th and 14th centuries were Siena's prime. It became a banking hub and built the Duomo, Palazzo Pubblico, and Torre del Mangia. Artists like Duccio and the Lorenzetti brothers thrived here.

The Black Death and Decline

The Black Death in 1348 hit Siena hard, wiping out much of the population. Political and economic issues piled on, leading to decline. Yet, Siena stayed an artistic and architectural center.

Renaissance and Medici Control

Siena stayed independent until the mid-16th century. Florence conquered it, and it became part of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany under the Medici. The Monte dei Paschi di Siena bank was founded in 1472.

Modern Era: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Today, Siena is known for its medieval look and culture. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Palio, a horse race in Piazza del Campo, is a big tradition.

The Word Famous Siena, Italy Horse Race

The Palio di Siena – or the Siena horse race – takes place in the city of Siena in Italy on July 2 and August 16 every year. The medieval tradition began in the 17th century and still involves riders racing their own horses around Piazza del Campo. It’s only 90 seconds. The rest of the four-day event is ceremonial: a parade, a blessing of the horses, and some dolce far niente (the sweetness of doing nothing) practices on the track.

But the Palio is more than a race: it embodies the traditions, passions, and intense rivalries of Siena and its past. It matters, like nothing else matters, to the 17 city districts, or contrade, that compete for their unique colors and symbols in this lightning-quick, medieval event. The square is filled with people from across the world who come to witness this ferocious spectacle.

Siena on Foot

Siena, Italy, is extremely walkable, especially in the old town. As far as I can tell, the entire medieval center is pedestrian-only. It is excellent for short to moderate walks for sightseeing and general exploration. You can walk from Piazza del Campo to Piazza Salimbeni to Via di Città to Maria and back to where you started.

You should expect to encounter a lot of old stuff and cool architecture along the way. It’s also an easy walk because it is compact and they have largely eliminated cars from the old town. So, you can walk almost anywhere you want to go and see the sights, have a coffee and snack at a café, do some souvenir shopping, purchase local knick-knacks, buy a souvenir spice-grater, and so on.

Safety in Siena: What Travelers Need to Know

As far as I know, in my experience, Siena in Italy is a very safe place to both live and visit. Crime is generally very low for this small city in such a developed country, and even violent crimes are very rare by Western standards. Pickpocketing is sometimes a concern in the busy areas of Siena. If you keep your stuff locked up and don’t concentrate too much on your phone in the touristy part of the city center, you should be fine. Overall, Siena – being a small town – is a good place to go for a relaxing, cultural vacation.

These tips will help make your Siena visit safe and fun:

Watch Your Stuff

• Pickpockets: Keep your valuables safe, especially in busy spots like Piazza del Campo and on public transport. Use a money belt or a cross-body bag.
• Distraction Tactics: Stay alert for common tricks by pickpockets, like fake fights, sudden bumps, or spills.

Health and Safety

• Travel Insurance: Get good travel insurance that covers health, theft, and cancellations.
• Local Health Services: Know where the local pharmacies and hospitals are in case of emergencies.

General Safety Tips

• Avoid Protests: Stay away from protests or large gatherings; they can get unpredictable.
• Safe Transportation: Use trusted transportation. Be extra careful on public transport, especially at night.

Cultural Sensitivity and Local Laws

• Dress Appropriately: Italians dress well. Avoid overly casual clothes in cities to blend in.
• Respect Local Customs: Be aware of local customs, especially during events like the Palio di Siena.

Navigation and Exploration

• Walking Safety: Siena is walkable, but watch out for narrow streets and traffic. Use crosswalks and stay alert.
• Maps and Guides: Carry a map or use a reliable offline navigation app to find your way around Siena's winding streets.

Accommodation Security

• Secure Your Accommodation: Choose well-reviewed places. Use hotel safes for valuables and always lock your doors and windows.
• Stay in Safe Areas: Stay in well-lit, frequented areas. The countryside is nice but may need a car for safe access.

Specific Tips for Visiting Attractions

• Early Arrival: For events like the Palio, get there early to grab a good spot and avoid the crowd.
• Crowded Spots: Be cautious in popular tourist spots like the Duomo, Piazza del Campo, and Torre del Mangia. These places are prime targets for pickpockets.

Tuscan Dreams, Siena Realities: What Will It Cost You?

Siena, Italy can be pretty pricey for tourists. Costs vary based on where you stay, what you eat, and activities. You can find budget places like hostels and B&Bs for about €50-70 a night. Fancier hotels will cost more. Eating out in non-touristy spots is cheaper, around €15-20 per person, but prices jump near big attractions. Getting around the city is easy, but high-speed train tickets for longer trips can be pricey. Siena has budget options, but costs can add up fast depending on your choices.

Visiting Siena, Italy, comes with a range of costs that vary based on your travel style. Adjust based on your preferences. Cooking your own meals or choosing free activities can save money. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Accommodation

Costs depend on where you stay:

• Budget Hotels: About $69 per night.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Around $113 per night.
• Luxury Hotels: Up to $175 per night.

Food and Dining

Eating out in Siena can be cheap or pricey, depending on your choices:

• Average Daily Cost: Around €51 ($55) per person.
• Typical Meal: About €20 ($22) per person at a mid-range restaurant. Breakfast costs less, dinner more.
• Dining Tips: Avoid tourist traps. Local spots away from attractions are cheaper and have better food.

Transportation

Getting around Siena can include public transport, taxis, and car rentals:

• Local Transportation: About €20 ($22) per person, per day.
• Car Rentals: Around €25-30 per day, plus fuel at about €1.80 per liter.

Activities and Entertainment

Enjoying Siena involves visiting sites and engaging in local activities:

• Museum and Site Fees: Typically between €5-15 per entry.
• Daily Activity Costs: Average about €3.75 ($4.08) per person.

Additional Expenses

Don’t forget other costs:

• Tips: Usually around 5-15% of the bill. Tipping is more relaxed than in the U.S.
• Alcohol: Around €2.19 ($2.38) per day.

Total Daily Budget

Plan for these daily budgets:

• Budget Travelers: €60-100 per day.
• Mid-Range Travelers: €150-200 per day.
• Luxury Travelers: €250+ per day.

The Best Things to Do in Siena, Italy

Here are 17 of the top things to do in Siena:

1. Visit Piazza del Campo

Go see Piazza del Campo. It’s one of the grandest squares in Europe. Famous for its unique shell shape, it’s the heart of Siena. They host the Palio horse race here twice a year.

2. Explore Duomo di Siena (Siena Cathedral)

Visit the Duomo di Siena. This architectural masterpiece has a striking black and white marble facade. Inside, you’ll find the Piccolomini Library and numerous artworks. It’s a must-see.

3. Experience Palio di Siena

Make sure to go to the Palio di Siena. This thrilling horse race happens in Piazza del Campo. It’s a historic event dating back to the 11th century. It’s a unique spectacle with deep cultural roots.

4. Climb Torre del Mangia

Check out the Torre del Mangia for breathtaking views. This tower stands next to the Palazzo Pubblico. Climb over 400 steps for stunning views of Siena and the countryside. It’s worth the effort.

5. Discover Palazzo Pubblico and Civic Museum

Explore the Palazzo Pubblico and Civic Museum. This Gothic palace is home to magnificent frescoes depicting Siena’s history. It still functions as Siena’s city hall.

6. Wander Basilica of San Domenico

Make a pilgrimage to the Basilica of San Domenico. It houses relics of St. Catherine of Siena. The church offers beautiful city views and significant historical insights.

7. Tour Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana

Visit the Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana. See an impressive collection of art from the cathedral, including works by Donatello and Duccio di Buoninsegna.

8. Explore Santa Maria della Scala

Check out Santa Maria della Scala. This is one of the oldest hospitals in Europe. Now a museum, it provides a fascinating look into Siena’s history with stunning frescoes.

9. Admire Biblioteca Piccolomini

Go see the Biblioteca Piccolomini within the Siena Cathedral. Renowned for its exquisite frescoes and historical manuscripts, it’s a visual treat.

10. Visit Siena National Gallery

Discover the Siena National Gallery. Housed in a historic palace, it features an extensive collection of Sienese art from the 12th to the 16th centuries.

11. Explore Fortezza Medicea

Check out the Fortezza Medicea. This historic fortress offers insights into Siena's military past and a beautiful park for a leisurely walk.

12. See Porta Pispini

Visit the Porta Pispini. This well-preserved medieval gate offers a glimpse into Siena’s defensive history. Adjacent to the gate are sections of the original city walls.

13. Marvel at Baptistery of San Giovanni

Explore the Baptistery of San Giovanni. Known for its elaborate baptismal font and stunning frescoes by Siena’s most famous artists, it’s a must-visit.

14. Discover Santuario di Santa Caterina

Make a pilgrimage to the Santuario di Santa Caterina. Dedicated to St. Catherine of Siena, the complex includes beautifully decorated buildings and the Church of the Crucified.

15. Stroll through Piazza Salimbeni

Go see Piazza Salimbeni. This picturesque square is surrounded by historic palaces and offers a tranquil spot to admire Siena’s architecture.

16. Walk the Historic Centre

Wander the narrow lanes of Siena’s historic centre. Discover charming shops, cafes, and medieval buildings. This area offers a delightful glimpse into the city’s past.

17. Take a Day Trip to Pienza

Consider a day trip to Pienza. This nearby village is famous for Pecorino di Pienza cheese. The scenic hamlet in the Val d’Orcia offers a taste of local flavors and beautiful landscapes.

Where to shop in Siena, Italy?

In my experience, when you're visiting Siena and looking for places to shop, be sure to check out Via Banchi di Sopra and Via di Città for clothes, shoes, and local crafts. For superb ceramics, go to Ceramiche Bianco e Nero di Staccioli. Need fine paper products? Il Papiro is the place. Every Wednesday, swing by the outdoor market near Fortezza Medicea for clothes and fresh produce. De Miccoli on Via di Città has killer meats, cheeses, and wines. Don’t miss the monthly antique market at Piazza del Mercato for unique finds.

Here's a summary overview of what to expect and where to go for the best shopping experience:

Main Shopping Streets

In Siena, check out Via Banchi di Sopra and Via di Città. These streets have a mix of fancy boutiques and popular brand stores. You'll find high-end fashion like Max Mara, Benetton, Diesel, and Ralph Lauren Jeans. Piazza Matteotti has Timberland and Stefanel too.

Specialty Shops

Siena is known for its unique specialty shops. For leather goods, visit Casa della Pelle. They showcase traditional craftsmanship. Siena Tartufi is great for gourmet food, especially truffle products.

Ceramiche Bianco e Nero di Staccioli offers beautifully crafted ceramics. These make perfect souvenirs. Near the Baptistry, Artigianato Senese specializes in handmade ceramics and religious items.

Food and Wine

Food and wine are big in Siena. De Miccoli on Via di Citta sells local meats, cheeses, olive oil, and wines. For sweets, Bini on Via Stalloreggi is famous for ricciarelli, cantuccini, and panforte.

Wine lovers should visit Cantina del Brunello on Via della Sapienza. They have a great selection of Tuscan wines, including Brunello di Montalcino.

Markets

Siena has lively markets. The main one is every Wednesday around Fortezza Medicea, offering clothes and foodstuffs. Every third Sunday, Piazza del Mercato hosts an antiques market. It's perfect for finding unique historical items.

Souvenirs

For souvenirs, Via della Sapienza is the spot. You'll find postcards, keychains, and pottery. Siena's tradition in ceramic art means plenty of beautiful, authentic pieces to buy.

The Best Guided Tours in Siena, Italy

Florence: S. Gimignano, Siena, Chianti & Wine Tasting Lunch

Join a guided tour from Florence. Visit San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, and Siena. Enjoy a Chianti wine and balsamic tasting. Upgrade to include Siena Cathedral. Explore Siena’s historic center, including the Basilica of San Domenico and Piazza del Campo.

From Florence: Day Trip Pisa, Siena & San Gimignano w/Lunch

Check out Tuscany's medieval sites on this tour from Florence. See San Gimignano, Pisa, and Siena. Have lunch at a Tuscan winery, tasting regional wines and learning about their production.

From Siena: Chianti and Castles Tour with Wine Tastings

Take a half-day tour from Siena. Visit local wineries and taste Chianti wines. Enjoy Tuscany's rolling hills and historic castles.

Siena: Private Custom Tour with a Local Guide

Design your own tour with a local guide in Siena. Explore historical sites, try local cuisine, or find hidden gems. Tailor the experience to your interests.

Siena: Cathedral Complex Pass with Audio Guide (OPA SI PASS)

Get full access to the Siena Cathedral complex with this ticket. Visit the Duomo, Baptistery, Crypt, Piccolomini Library, Museo dell'Opera, Oratory of San Bernardino, and the Facciatone viewpoint. Use the audio guide for detailed commentary.

Siena: Horseback Adventure in the Tuscan Countryside

See Tuscany on horseback. Enjoy the countryside and learn about local flora and fauna from your guide. This tour offers a unique perspective of the area.

Siena Italy Weather

The best time to visit Siena depends on what you want. Spring and early autumn are ideal for nice weather and fewer crowds, great for exploring the city's sites and countryside. Summer is hotter and busy with festivals like the Palio di Siena horse race in July and August. If you prefer cooler weather and holiday vibes, winter offers a peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists.

Spring

Spring in Siena is mild and pleasant. In March, temps range from the low 40s at night to the low 60s during the day. April sees a slight increase, with mid-40s at night and mid-60s during the day. By May, it warms up to the low 70s during the day and 50s at night. Expect moderate rainfall, which makes everything lush and green.

Summer

Summer in Siena is warm to hot. June has highs around 81°F and lows around 60°F. July is the hottest, with daytime temps often hitting the mid-80s, sometimes up to 90°F, and lows around 64°F. August stays hot, but cools a bit toward the end. It's usually dry with low humidity, making it a popular time for tourists.

Autumn

Autumn in Siena sees cooling temps and more rain. September starts with highs in the high 70s and lows in the mid-50s. October cools to mid-60s during the day and mid-40s at night. November continues the cooling trend with highs in the mid-50s and lows in the upper 30s. Expect more rain than in summer, adding vibrant colors to the countryside.

Winter

Winters in Siena are cool and can be wet. December has daytime temps in the low 50s and lows around 40°F. January, the coldest month, sees highs averaging 53°F and lows dropping to 37°F. February warms slightly with highs around 55°F and lows near 38°F. Humidity and rainfall are higher.

Does it snow in Siena, Italy?

Snow in Siena, Italy, is pretty rare. Siena usually has mild winters. Temps are between 37°F and 50°F in January and February. Snow might happen once or twice a year, but it's usually just a light dusting. Sometimes, it snows more heavily. In February 1991, they got about 15.5 inches. The Mediterranean climate keeps heavy snow away most of the time.

How to Get to Siena, Italy

Getting to Siena, Italy is a breeze, whether you start in Florence, Rome, or another part of Italy.

• By Train: Take a regional train. From Florence, it takes about 1.5 hours. From Rome, you’ll need to transfer in Florence, taking about 3.5 hours total.
• By Bus: Buses are quicker than trains. From Florence, it’s about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Buses drop you off closer to the city center.
• By Car: Renting a car is flexible and scenic. Driving from Florence takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The SR 222 route is especially scenic.

Does Siena, Italy have a train station?

Yep, Siena has a train station. It’s outside the city walls at the bottom of a hill. You can take a local bus or use an escalator in Porta Siena shopping center to get to the city center.

Does Siena, Italy have an airport?

Nope, Siena doesn’t have its own airport. The nearest airports are in Florence, Pisa, and Rome. From these, you can reach Siena by train, bus, or car.

Car Rental in Siena, Italy

Renting a car? Good idea if you want to explore Tuscany. Check out Discovercars.com for deals. They offer a variety of vehicles to fit your needs and budget.

Where to Park in Siena, Italy?

Parking in Siena can be tricky. Here are some options:

• Il Campo Parking: Near the stadium, about a 10-minute walk to Piazza del Campo.
• Santa Caterina Parking: Convenient for the escalator to the city center.
• San Francesco Parking: Near the San Francesco Basilica with escalator access.

Does Siena, Italy have Uber?

No Uber in Siena. Use traditional taxis, which are easy to hail or book. Siena also has a good public transport system with buses to get around.

Where to stay in Siena, Italy?

If you need somewhere to stay in Siena, it has places available for all tastes and budgets. Want luxury? Check out the Grand Hotel Continental Siena, a 5-star spot in a 17th-century building right in the center. For a cozy boutique feel, Hotel Palazzo di Valli is your go-to, just outside the city center in an 18th-century villa. On a budget? Hotel La Perla near Piazza del Campo offers a great location and friendly staff. If you prefer the countryside, Villa Lilia by Let is a short drive away and super peaceful.

The Best Hotels in Siena, Italy

Here's a summary of the top hotels in Siena that cover all bases:

Budget Hotels

Hotel Minerva
Hotel Minerva is comfy with free WiFi. It's near the center of Siena and a hit with budget travelers. The rooms are simple and clean, and the staff is super friendly. Perfect if you’re looking to save some cash while exploring Siena.

Albergo Cannon d'Oro
Albergo Cannon d'Oro is right in the heart of Siena, making it easy to check out all the sights. It’s a basic, historic spot, great for anyone wanting a budget-friendly stay with some local charm.

Family Hotels

Hotel Italia
Hotel Italia is great for families, just a short walk from Piazza del Campo. The rooms are spacious, and the vibe is welcoming. They offer a kid-friendly breakfast and easy access to public transport, making it simple for families to get around.

Best Western Hotel San Marco
Best Western Hotel San Marco is perfect for families, with free WiFi, breakfast, and parking. It’s close to Siena's historic center, making family outings a breeze.

Mid-Range Hotels

Hotel Athena
Hotel Athena is within Siena's historic walls and mixes comfort with elegance. The rooms are spacious, there’s a great restaurant, and the rooftop terrace has amazing views of the Tuscan countryside. A solid choice for a mid-range stay with nice perks.

Hotel Santa Caterina
Hotel Santa Caterina, set in an 18th-century villa, offers a charming vibe and stunning views of the Tuscan hills. Breakfast on the terrace is a treat. It's close to Porta Romana, perfect for exploring Siena.

Luxury Hotels

Grand Hotel Continental Siena - Starhotels Collezione
Grand Hotel Continental is a luxury spot in a 17th-century building in Siena’s heart. The rooms are fancy with frescoed ceilings. There’s also an elegant restaurant and a wine cellar for a lavish experience.

B&B Le Logge Luxury Rooms
B&B Le Logge offers a high-end stay with beautifully decorated rooms. It’s near the city center, so you’re close to all the main attractions. This place is peaceful with top-notch service and amenities.

Where to eat in Siena, Italy?

Food is beyond exceptional in Siena. There’s something for everyone. History lovers, check out La Taverna di San Giuseppe, a restaurant serving Tuscan dishes such as Malfatti Casalinghi and Tagliata with truffle, located in an old Etruscan house. Antica Osteria da Divo — a stone house built in the 13th century that has cool Etruscan caves — and the Pici al Tartufo is sublime. Modern Italian and funky atmosphere can be found at Ristorante Campo Cedro; a beautiful restaurant with plates of prawns with tartar sauce and Taglioni with squid. For something more laid-back but still killer pasta such as Artichoke Rigatoni from boar ragu, head to Fischi per Fiaschi; it features long tables that are a fun way to dine.

The Best Restaurants in Siena, Italy

These spots offer everything from casual bites to fancy dinners in Siena:

Casual Dining

• Pizzeria Gurgu Kebab: Popular pizza joint near the city center. Quick and tasty.
• Salumeria Il Cencio: Hearty sandwiches and big wine pours. Perfect for a chill lunch.

Family-Friendly

• Il Bandierino: Wide range of Italian dishes, including pizza and risotto. Family-friendly vibe.
• ValleChiara: Hidden in Chianti vineyards. Great pasta and beef dishes. Family-friendly.
• La Taverna di San Giuseppe: Charming spot with traditional Tuscan cuisine. Ideal for family dinners.

Mid-Range

• Ristorante Tar-Tufo: Seafood and Italian dishes in a relaxed setting.
• Osteria La Montagnola: Scenic location with good food at fair prices.

Fine Dining

• Foresteria Villa Cerna: Fine dining in the vineyards. Exquisite Italian and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Ristorante Le Pietre Vive: Excellent local food and service on Siena's outskirts.
• L'Oro di Siena: Michelin-type dining with local farm-sourced ingredients. Elevated experience.

FAQs (Frequently asked questions about Siena)

What language do they speak in Siena, Italy?

In Siena, Italy, folks mainly speak Italian, especially the Tuscan dialect. This is the base for Standard Italian. Siena, in Tuscany, shares this language heritage with Florence. Over time, Tuscan shaped modern Italian, thanks to authors like Dante Alighieri. Though Italian is the official language, locals also use regional dialects daily.

Which is better, Florence or Siena?

If you prefer to be surrounded by majestic Renaissance buildings by day and busy discos by night, Florence is best. If you like your medieval city streets and ancient palaces with a side of ‘twiddle your thumbs’, then Siena is for you. It’s cheaper and quieter. It’s smaller and less synonymous with notorious mass tourism. Your call.