Cobbled pathways leading to ancient walls … Streets where, when looking up, the tips of buildings all appear like castles melting into various hues of Tuscan terra cotta; and home to collections of influential Sienese Renaissance art, the best Siena day tours from Florence leave hearts full.
For indecisive travelers who can’t decide between staying in Florence or Siena, not to fear when you have the option of a daytime adventure. A day trip to this special destination is one of the most memorable if you’re searching for unique things to do in Florence beyond its city walls.
Experience the charm of Siena with our top3 tours or scroll down to discover more enticing day trip options from Florence!
| Activity Type | Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Day Tour w/ Lunch | From 63€ | 12 hours |
| Day Tour w/ Wine Tasting | From 79€ | 11 hours |
| Private Day Tour | From 650€ | 8 hours |
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How to get to Siena from Florence?
Italy’s 12th largest city is located in central Italy, established as part of the Siena region. Forming part of the Toscana countryside, Siena is 78 kilometers from the center of Tuscany’s capital city.
Once you arrive, enter the city using its famed escalators or walk the longer way into Siena.
By car
It takes just over an hour to reach Siena from Florence via car, and there are multiple routes that you can drive: the scenic route or the highway.
Traveling via Raccordo Autostradale Firenze – Siena (RA03) is the fastest option, and you will go through a toll on the highway. From Via Giovanni Agnelli/SP127, merge onto A1/E35, eventually joining onto Raccordo Autostradale Firenze – Siena. Take the exit for Siena Ovest toward Siena Ovest/Centro. Once nearing the city, park at one of the free or paid parking spaces.
The scenic way along the Chiantigiana road (also known as the SR 222) adds about 30 minutes to an hour more to your journey, taking the backroads through Chianti instead and skipping the tolls.
By train
Traveling from Florence to Siena by train is a 1.5 to two-hour journey, and none of the high-speed trains run through Siena. Trenitalia (the regional train) operates between the two cities multiple times a day, and the direct line departs from the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station.
By organized tour
Enjoy a convenient expedition with round-trip transfers from Florence to Siena via private vehicle. Exit your hotel and hop into a private minivan, or meet your tour operator at a designated departure point in Firenze (tour dependent).
Certain tour buses include onboard wifi, and your mode of transport varies depending on your tour operator as well, from minivans for small groups to coaches for larger traveling parties.
Is a day tour to Siena worth it?
Absolutely! Built across three hills, Siena dates back to the Etruscans, and entering its painstakingly preserved medieval walls is like stepping back in time! There are no cars within its old town, and cobbled roads lead the way.
A deemed UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995 for its historical and cultural significance, its historic center hosts the famous bi-annual Palio horse race within the Piazza del Campo — which it has done since 1656!
Home to the oldest bank in the world, it remains one of the country’s most revered towns. Split into 17 contradas (districts), the museums, Gothic architectural masterpieces and ancient art history are tenfold.
What are the main attractions to visit in Siena?
Piazza del Campo
Stepping inside the grand-scale Piazza del Campo really makes you feel small, and appears more like an amphitheater than a town square. Dating to the 13th century, this shell-shaped public square is one of Europe’s most renowned thanks to its design, size and historical importance (and the city’s Palio di Siena takes place here).
Smack bang in the middle of the UNESCO-listed historical center, many of the town’s buildings are built around the piazza, including restaurants and a few souvenir shops. Crowds gather, snapping countless photographs or breaking on the sidelines to enjoy a schiacciata (Sienese flatbread).
Siena’s most famous landmarks (like the Duomo) are all within walking distance to Piazza del Campo, with the marble Fonte Gaia fountain right in the middle of the square at the one end. Surrounding its perimeters are the Palazzo Pubblico, Torre del Mangia and Cappella di Piazza, also called the Chapel of the Virgin.
Piazza del Duomo
Home to the Duomo di Siena (also called the Siena Cathedral, or more accurately, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta), the Piazza del Duomo is one of the most bustling spaces in Siena.
The cathedral masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic architecture houses some of Siena’s most acclaimed artworks dating back centuries (including works by Donatello and Michelangelo), and fascinatingly, was originally built for the opera — which it still hosts.
Its construction took place between 1215 and 1263.
Even from its facade, you can appreciate its stylistic design, with three doors, exterior artwork, and its famous stained glass window on the upper half of the building.
Torre del Mangia
Towering 87 meters toward the Tuscan sun, the Torre del Mangia is a hotspot for sweeping in vistas across Siena, climbing 400-odd steps to reach the top of this tower.
Constructed between 1338 and 1348, the red-brick landmark forms part of the Palazzo Pubblico, i.e., the city town hall (built between 1297 and 1325).
Its height was purposefully chosen in line with Siena’s Duomo, signifying equal importance between the people of Siena and the church. Not common at the time, it became one of Italy’s tallest secular towers.
Since then, many other world-famous towers have taken inspiration, modeling monuments in the UK and USA after the Torre del Mangia.
The Piccolomini Library
Is it an art gallery or an other-worldly library? Dedicated to Pope Pius II (who was head of the Catholic Church until 1464), stepping inside the Piccolomini Library is pretty awe-inspiring.
Expressing the life and work of the pope through ten illustrated frescoes, there are also sculptural pieces and manuscripts to investigate within its colorful, stylized walls.
It was only after Pius II’s passing that the library was set up in his honor, and it’s situated within the Duomo. The archbishop of Siena at the time, Cardinal Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini, was in charge of the library’s construction, working on the painted biography with his students, including Raphael!
Pinacoteca Nazionale (National Gallery)
Between the 13th and 14th centuries, art in Italy boomed, particularly in Siena.
The National Gallery, also known as Pinacoteca Nazionale, is housed within the Palazzo Buonsignori, and this is where artworks from this period (including a collection extending from the 12th to 16th centuries) are displayed.
The National Gallery was established in 1932 with three levels worth of collections to explore.
The first floor is dedicated to 16th-century artists, highlighting the Sienese Mannerism style. The second floor chronicles the foundations of Sienese art until the 15th century, including works by Simone Martini, Duccio and Giovanni di Paolo.
On the third level, uncover the Spannocchi-Piccolomini Collection, comprising 15th and 16th-century pieces from northern Italian, Dutch, German and Flemish artists.
Museums
Get your fix of Siena’s art, history and culture through the various museums.
One of the most important to the city is the Museo Civico, located on the first floor of the town hall. Amble through rooms (like the Risorgimento Hall, the Cardinals Room, the Concistoro Room and the World Map Room) and corridors expressing the history of Siena and admire art from the last couple of centuries.
Headed up inside the regal Palazzo Piccolomini is the Biccherne Museum, which is dedicated to the State Archives. Rumble through ancient records relating to the municipality of Siena, including 103 13th-century painted wooden panels called the ‘Tavolette di Biccherna.’
The Natural History Museum of the Accademia dei Fisiocritici is set up across two floors within an ancient monastery. Covering categories such as zoology, geology, anatomy, botany and curiosities, explore collections of natural and historical specimens relative to the area.
Transforming the city’s former hospital into the Museum Complex Santa Maria della Scala in Siena, this institute is found in front of the Duomo. Spend time meandering through the halls and rooms of both permanent and temporary exhibitions, filled with frescoes and art history.
If you’ve got the guts for it, enter the Museum of Torture Siena. Step back to medieval times when corporal punishment reigned supreme. Initiated underground near Piazza del Campo, see how the unfortunate met their fate, with instruments on display like torture chairs and water torture contraptions.
Santuario Di Santa Caterina Da Siena
Honoring Saint Catherine of Siena (canonized in 1461 for her work in Italian papal and political matters), Santuario Di Santa Caterina Da Siena (The Shrine of the House of Saint Catherine) is where the sister spent her life.
Her former home is split into various sections spread across three levels.
Enter the Portico Dei Comuni ambulatory, check out the crucifix where Saint Catherine received her stigmata inside the Church of the Crucifix and pop into the 14th-century style Kitchen Oratory.
Other exciting spaces to discover are the Oratory of the Bedroom, the Cubicle and the Confessional Chapel.
Only added after her passing, the home room walls were decorated in a mixture of religious frescoes and those depicting her life story, painted between the 16th and 19th centuries by various Sienese artists.
Porta Camollia
Visiting Siena 500 years ago, the only way to enter the town was through Porta Camollia, i.e. the old city gate.
Traced back to before the Middle Ages, the ancient gateway is named after the Italian commander, Camullio. He was sent by the founder of Rome (Romulus) to capture his nephews Senio and Ascani, and instead, Camullio made the city of Siena his home base.
Forming part of Siena’s medieval walls, it’s found on the northern end on Via Camollia.
Completely free to visit, walk underneath one of its three arches, and the middle one is the largest of these.
Try spotting the Medici coat of arms above the central stone archway, added after the family invaded Siena from Florence in the 16th century.
Basilica Cateriniana
The Gothic-style Basilica Cateriniana is a site to behold! Named after St. Catherine, this is where she spent most of her days.
Built between 1226 and 1265, it was later renovated into this architectural style and then again modeled in the Baroque manner after parts of the church were destroyed in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Interestingly, the Baroque elements were all removed in the 20th century to retain its original charm. Constructed on Camporegio Hill, the original old Chapter Room, old Sacristy, the Refectory and the Dormitory are still intact.
There is also an on-site bookshop (where you can purchase both religious and non-religious books and keepsakes), building frescoes to explore and mass is held here.
Palazzo Salimbeni
With parts of its features designed by Raphael, the Palazzo Salimbeni building isn’t just a must-visit for its architectural integrity.
Today, it still contains the offices of Europe’s first bank, the Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena!
Originally a palace belonging to the Salimbeni family (hence the name), it was designed in the 14th century in the typical Renaissance style but underwent a Neo-Gothic revamp circa the 19th century.
Although the private bank is closed off to visitors, you can still appreciate its beauty from the outside.
Located in the Piazza Salimbeni, Palazzo Tantucci and Palazzo Spannocchi are also within this square. Pose for a picture next to the statue of Sallustio Bandini — one of Italy’s first economists and pioneers of free trade in the country.
Fortezza Medicea
Did you know that back in the day, Florence and Siena were ruled by different governments?
It wasn’t until the 16th century, when the Medici family was in power that the Republic of Siena was disestablished. With this came the rise of the Fortezza Medicea, and the fort was constructed between 1561 and 1563 under the rule of Cosimo de’ Medici.
However, its foundations had already been set years before by the Spaniards. When the Medicis took over, they erected the four-sided fortress, and you can walk along parts of the ramparts.
Eventually, the Medici Fortress had no role left to play once the city was demilitarized, and was converted into a public park in 1937. Sporting and leisurely outdoor activities are popular here now, and it’s also an incredible spot for lapping up city views from an elevated vantage point.
How long should I spend in Siena?
A day tour is the perfect amount of time to get your fix of Siena’s sightseeing, foodie-centric endeavors and art; however, if you are afforded the time, one to two days is ideal.
If you plan on just passing through, set aside at least two to three hours.
What are the best Siena day tours from Florence?
Siena day tour with lunch
Famed for its vineyards, farmlands and rolling hills, Tuscany is a renowned foodie hotspot!
Indulge in a day of sightseeing and delicious bites during one of these best Siena day tours from Florence with lunch at a traditional restaurant in the countryside, a local winery, or even an ancient castle!
Departing from Firenze in the morning, some tours head directly to the city with lunch served afterward, or the other way round — in which case, you’ll first explore parts of Chianti en route to the restaurant.
Enjoy ample time in the city of the Palio, photographing its exquisite time-warped landmarks stretching back to Medieval times. Pop into museums and art galleries, and there is a fabulous mixture of shopping boutiques, from trendy fashion to historical souvenirs.
Siena day tour with dinner
Late-risers or travelers who already have morning plans can still experience Siena during a day tour, kicking off at midday (around 12.30 PM) and returning to the Tuscan capital after dinner.
Tour dependent, arrive in Siena where your guided excursion begins, clocking in the most famous buildings, landmarks and monuments in a couple of hours; your chaperone sharing interesting titbits and historical facts at each stop.
As the sun begins to set, settle down for a classic Italian dinner at one of the restaurants surrounding Piazza del Campo, or certain tours savor this part outside of Siena at a local wine estate, with a four-course meal inside the cellar, for example.
Siena day tour with wine tasting
Wine is synonymous with Tuscany, so what could be better than a day tour paired with wine tastings?
Departing from Florence, whizz through the Chianti hills into Greve (this area is celebrated for its wineries, for example, Fattoria di Montecchio, and vineyards lined in grape and olive groves). These tours typically follow the old Chianti road route, skipping the main highway.
Learn the history behind the estate and the process involved in wine production, followed by vino samplings of Chianti Classico and Super Tuscan. Lining the bellies, these are accompanied by food samplings of local cheese, olive oils, breads and cold cuts!
The bulk of the Siena sightseeing for these expeditions is first up on itineraries while you still have your walking legs strong!
Are there any combo Siena tours from Florence including other destinations on the way?
When planning your itinerary in Tuscany, don’t miss out on exploring the best day trips from Florence. While Siena is a popular choice, there are also combo tours to other towns and villages within the Tuscan countryside, and a handful of not-to-miss destinations are within close range of the city.
Siena & Pisa day tour
What could be better than getting the chance to visit two of Italy’s iconic cities near Florence in one day?
With a visit to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, stopovers at Tuscan wineries and exposure to some of the region’s oldest traditions, from the culture to the food, a Siena and Pisa day tour is completely satisfying.
The Leaning Tower is found within the Square of Miracles complex, and also here are the Cathedral, Baptistery and the Camposanto.
Specific adventures let you roam freely in either city or both; others are guided the entire way.
Siena & Chianti day tour
It’s almost a sin to travel to Florence and not explore Chianti, home of Tuscany’s wine region — especially if you’re a wine connoisseur. Plus, what better way to end off a day of exploring Siena?
A Siena and Chianti day tour epitomizes the best of this spectacular countryside, veering across verdant landscapes littered with grape groves, olive trees and farmlands where cows and sheep lazily graze.
Depending on the operator, you will visit at least two wineries, some include up to four, and these range from family-run vineyards to famous wineries.
Get educated on the different grape varieties that grow in the area, hear some of the history behind each estate, and enjoy time in the cellars where tastings are held.
Siena & San Gimignano day tour
San Gimignano is one of the most magical places, and this unique medieval hamlet is like any other town you’ve seen before!
With its walls dedicatedly protected and preserved through the centuries, it’s as if you’ve time-machined back to the 1500s. Meandering along the cobbled streets lined with delis, restaurants, cafes and boutique shops is amazing, and the winner of the world’s best gelato makers is here, too!
Located 45 minutes from Siena, either explore Siena first and then San Gimignano or the other way round. There are some incredible wineries around San Gimignano as well, and certain tours break at one or two of these for either lunch or wine tastings.
Hot tip: Discover the many things to do in Tuscany such as visiting vineyards, exploring olive groves, and staying in rustic agriturismos.
When is the best time to visit Siena?
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable months to visit Siena, skipping out on overbearing crowds that arrive for an Italian summer.
The weather in March and April is still quite fresh and days are overcast, but with all of the walking around, this is much appreciated! Toward the end of April and May, Siena sees the most rain.
If you are visiting between November and February, dress warmly! Most of the city’s infrastructure was established centuries ago using materials such as stone, and so cool breezes echo from the building walls.
Between September and October is also a wonderful time to visit Siena, as summer fades away and the cooler weather rolls in, but still with lots of sunshine.
How can I book a Siena day tour from Florence?
With travelers often tossing up between making Siena or Florence their home base for the duration of their time in Tuscany, Siena is a hotspot! As a result, there are many websites selling the best Siena day tours from Florence.
Using our TourScanner search engine, conveniently compare the different tour prices and offerings all in one platform, deciding for yourself which tour best suits your travel needs.
From here, booking is easy with a few simple clicks!
Can I customize my Siena day tour?
If you’re not the biggest fan of joining large tour groups or prefer to be your own routing captain, customize your Siena day tour by opting for one of the private tours from Florence.
Although you will have a basic itinerary to follow, if there’s a particular village or town you’re dying to check out on the way to Siena or on the way back to Florence, just let your tour guide know. These excursions are limited to your tour group only after all.
The same goes for the landmarks and buildings in Siena itself.
Another bonus of a privatized expedition is an extra comfortable journey, often swapping coaches for cars and eliminating some of the travel time. Once you arrive in Siena, enjoy skip-the-line tickets to the city’s most sought-after attractions, such as the Duomo, or if you’re visiting another city as well, the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Travel tips
- There are two ways to enter the city of Siena: via the elevators or walk 25 minutes up the hill to the city’s entry point.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobbled streets and explorations.
- If visiting in Spring, bring a rain jacket for its rainy season, or sunblock in the summer months.
- Filled with loads of cute shops, make sure you have enough spending money on you.
- Don’t leave your camera behind; the unique structures in Siena tug on any photo-happy heartstrings.
- If your tour doesn’t include lunch, there are some fantastic restaurants in Siena, including a handful of Michelin-listed options!