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Florence to Siena Day Trips

4.4(4,845)
Expert guides. Unique insights.
Expert guides. Unique insights.
Tours in multiple languages
Tours in multiple languages
Top experiences in Florence
Top experiences in Florence
























Aerial view of Siena's historic rooftops and cathedral in Tuscany, Italy.
Tour bus parked among cypress trees in Tuscany, Italy.
Tourists boarding a bus for the Tuscany in a Day tour, visiting Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa.
Tourists taking a selfie in front of a historic building in Siena, Italy.
Piazza del Campo in Siena with Torre del Mangia, Tuscany.
Tourists posing near the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy.
Leaning Tower of Pisa and Pisa Cathedral in Tuscany, Italy.
Siena Cathedral facade with visitors in Tuscany, Italy.
San Gimignano town square with medieval buildings and tourists exploring.
Siena Cathedral facade with intricate Gothic architecture, Tuscany.
Aerial view of Siena's historic rooftops and cathedral in Tuscany, Italy.
Tour bus parked among cypress trees in Tuscany, Italy.
Tourists boarding a bus for the Tuscany in a Day tour, visiting Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa.
Tourists taking a selfie in front of a historic building in Siena, Italy.
Piazza del Campo in Siena with Torre del Mangia, Tuscany.
Tourists posing near the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy.
Leaning Tower of Pisa and Pisa Cathedral in Tuscany, Italy.
Siena Cathedral facade with visitors in Tuscany, Italy.
San Gimignano town square with medieval buildings and tourists exploring.
Siena Cathedral facade with intricate Gothic architecture, Tuscany.
Aerial view of Siena's historic rooftops and cathedral in Tuscany, Italy.
Tour bus parked among cypress trees in Tuscany, Italy.
Tourists boarding a bus for the Tuscany in a Day tour, visiting Siena, San Gimignano, and Pisa.
Tourists taking a selfie in front of a historic building in Siena, Italy.
Piazza del Campo in Siena with Torre del Mangia, Tuscany.
Tourists posing near the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Italy.
Leaning Tower of Pisa and Pisa Cathedral in Tuscany, Italy.
Siena Cathedral facade with visitors in Tuscany, Italy.
San Gimignano town square with medieval buildings and tourists exploring.
Siena Cathedral facade with intricate Gothic architecture, Tuscany.
4.5(2,048)

From Florence: Tuscany, Siena, San Gimignano & Pisa Day Trip

from
€65
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

11 hr 30 min - 13 hr 45 min
Transfers available
Meals included

A complete Tuscan adventure with iconic sights, optional lunch, and wine tasting.

  • Enjoy round-trip transfers by coach or minivan from Florence to the Tuscan countryside and explore its breathtaking landscapes.
  • With the expertise of a multilingual guide, get a taste of the authentic Tuscan experience on a full-day tour.
  • Visit the enthralling city of Siena where you’ll visit the Piazza del Campo, famous for its Palio di Siena horse race.
  • Upgrade to relish a delicious lunch of Tuscan cuisine, and an authentic local wine-tasting tour. Visit the medieval town of San Gimignano and explore to your heart’s desire.
  • Go to Pisa and its stunning Piazza dei Miracoli. Admire the Baptistery and the famous Leaning Tower.

A complete Tuscan adventure with iconic sights, optional lunch, and wine tasting.

  • Enjoy round-trip transfers by coach or minivan from Florence to the Tuscan countryside and explore its breathtaking landscapes.
  • With the expertise of a multilingual guide, get a taste of the authentic Tuscan experience on a full-day tour.
  • Visit the enthralling city of Siena where you’ll visit the Piazza del Campo, famous for its Palio di Siena horse race.
  • Upgrade to relish a delicious lunch of Tuscan cuisine, and an authentic local wine-tasting tour. Visit the medieval town of San Gimignano and explore to your heart’s desire.
  • Go to Pisa and its stunning Piazza dei Miracoli. Admire the Baptistery and the famous Leaning Tower.

Inclusions

  • Full-day tour of Tuscany, Siena, San Gimignano and Pisa
  • Expert English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, or French-speaking guide
  • Round-trip transfers from Florence by coach
  • Typical Tuscan lunch with drinks (optional)
  • Wine tasting (optional)

Exclusions

  • Entry to Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • Entry to Siena Cathedral
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Piazza del Campo in Siena with Torre del Mangia and Palazzo Pubblico.
Streets of San Gimignano with historic stone buildings and tourists exploring.
Vineyards and olive groves in Chianti region, Tuscany, Italy.
Hand holding a glass of rosé wine in a Chianti vineyard during an e-bike tour.
Wine barrels in a cellar during Chianti wine tasting tour from Florence.
Tour guide holding a sign in a Chianti village during a wine tour from Florence.
Bus interior with passengers traveling from Tromso to Skjervoy.
Piazza del Campo in Siena with Torre del Mangia and Palazzo Pubblico.
Streets of San Gimignano with historic stone buildings and tourists exploring.
Vineyards and olive groves in Chianti region, Tuscany, Italy.
Hand holding a glass of rosé wine in a Chianti vineyard during an e-bike tour.
Wine barrels in a cellar during Chianti wine tasting tour from Florence.
Tour guide holding a sign in a Chianti village during a wine tour from Florence.
Bus interior with passengers traveling from Tromso to Skjervoy.
Piazza del Campo in Siena with Torre del Mangia and Palazzo Pubblico.
Streets of San Gimignano with historic stone buildings and tourists exploring.
Vineyards and olive groves in Chianti region, Tuscany, Italy.
Hand holding a glass of rosé wine in a Chianti vineyard during an e-bike tour.
Wine barrels in a cellar during Chianti wine tasting tour from Florence.
Tour guide holding a sign in a Chianti village during a wine tour from Florence.
Bus interior with passengers traveling from Tromso to Skjervoy.
4.6(11)

From Florence: Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti Day Trip with Local Flavors Experience

from
€99
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

11 hr 30 min
Transfers available
Meals included
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION10 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
Central Florence
Start point

Central Florence

Get direction
71 min by a/c bus
78.3 km
Siena

1. Siena

1 attraction

Highlights

46 min by a/c bus
41.7 km
San Gimignano

2. San Gimignano

1 attraction

Highlights

57 min by a/c bus
45.9 km
Chianti Classico

3. Chianti Classico

1 activity

Things to do

50 min by a/c bus
29.1 km
Central Florence
End point

Central Florence

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

A classic Tuscan trio—Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti—all in one seamless day trip from Florence.

  • Day out to the medieval gems of Siena and San Gimignano before heading to a charming Chianti countryside estate.
  • You’ll get round-trip coach transfers, a guided tour of Siena, free time in San Gimignano, and a countryside meal with regional pairings.
  • Siena: Join a guided tour of Piazza del Campo and admire the Palazzo Pubblico and Mangia Tower.
  • San Gimignano & Chianti: Stroll San Gimignano’s UNESCO-listed lanes at your pace, then unwind at a Chianti estate with a 3-course Tuscan lunch and curated sips.

A classic Tuscan trio—Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti—all in one seamless day trip from Florence.

  • Day out to the medieval gems of Siena and San Gimignano before heading to a charming Chianti countryside estate.
  • You’ll get round-trip coach transfers, a guided tour of Siena, free time in San Gimignano, and a countryside meal with regional pairings.
  • Siena: Join a guided tour of Piazza del Campo and admire the Palazzo Pubblico and Mangia Tower.
  • San Gimignano & Chianti: Stroll San Gimignano’s UNESCO-listed lanes at your pace, then unwind at a Chianti estate with a 3-course Tuscan lunch and curated sips.

Inclusions

  • Full-day trip around Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti
  • Multilingual assistance on board
  • Pick up from Florence
  • Round-trip AC coach transfer
  • Expert English-speaking guide in Siena
  • Vineyard visit, lunch, and wine tasting in Chianti
  • Tip: When in San Gimignano, seek out the Rocca di Montestaffoli. This old fortress offers a quieter panoramic vantage with lovely gardens that many tourists miss.
  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
  • Your safety is our priority. Drinks are not served for guests under the age of 18 years.
  • Minors under the age of 18 years can join the tour if they are each accompanied by at least one adult.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Siena cityscape with historic buildings and lush greenery during Chianti Half Day Wine Tasting Tour.
Women posing playfully with the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy.
Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery with tourists exploring the square.
Stone buildings in a sunny Tuscan village square, part of the Highlights of Tuscany tour.
People dining at a long table during Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano day trip.
Visitors at the steps of a historic church in San Gimignano, Italy.
Bus traveling through Chianti vineyards during Florence wine tour.
Wine bottles and Italian appetizers on a table during a Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti day trip.
Tourists enjoying a wine tasting experience in Tuscany during a Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano day trip.
Siena Cathedral facade with tourists during the day in Siena, Italy.
Siena cityscape with historic buildings and lush greenery during Chianti Half Day Wine Tasting Tour.
Women posing playfully with the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy.
Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery with tourists exploring the square.
Stone buildings in a sunny Tuscan village square, part of the Highlights of Tuscany tour.
People dining at a long table during Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano day trip.
Visitors at the steps of a historic church in San Gimignano, Italy.
Bus traveling through Chianti vineyards during Florence wine tour.
Wine bottles and Italian appetizers on a table during a Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti day trip.
Tourists enjoying a wine tasting experience in Tuscany during a Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano day trip.
Siena Cathedral facade with tourists during the day in Siena, Italy.
Siena cityscape with historic buildings and lush greenery during Chianti Half Day Wine Tasting Tour.
Women posing playfully with the Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy.
Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery with tourists exploring the square.
Stone buildings in a sunny Tuscan village square, part of the Highlights of Tuscany tour.
People dining at a long table during Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano day trip.
Visitors at the steps of a historic church in San Gimignano, Italy.
Bus traveling through Chianti vineyards during Florence wine tour.
Wine bottles and Italian appetizers on a table during a Pisa, Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti day trip.
Tourists enjoying a wine tasting experience in Tuscany during a Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano day trip.
Siena Cathedral facade with tourists during the day in Siena, Italy.
4.4(3,918)

From Florence: Pisa, San Gimignano, Siena & Chianti Day Trip with Lunch & Tuscan Tastings

from €95
€71.25

25% off

Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

12 hr - 12 hr 45 min
Transfers available
Meals included
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION12 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
Central Florence
Start point

Central Florence

Get direction
77 min by a/c bus
84.5 km
Pisa

1. Pisa

1 attraction

Highlights

81 min by a/c bus
78.8 km
San Gimignano

2. San Gimignano

1 attraction

Highlights

Things to do

46 min by a/c bus
41.9 km
Siena

3. Siena

2 attractions

Highlights

78 min by a/c bus
77 km
Central Florence
End point

Central Florence

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

See Pisa, San Gimignano & Siena in a single day with iconic sights, Tuscan charm, and a hearty lunch.

  • Day out to: the Leaning Tower of Pisa, scenic San Gimignano, and historic Siena from Florence.
  • You’ll get round-trip coach transfers, time to explore each destination, and a traditional Tuscan lunch with curated local pours.
  • Pisa & San Gimignano: Snap photos at the Leaning Tower in Pisa and enjoy a countryside lunch paired with regional flavors in San Gimignano.
  • Siena: Wander medieval alleyways, bustling piazzas, and Gothic landmarks in the heart of Siena.
  • Upgrades: Enhance your visit with a guided walking tour of Siena and optional entry to its iconic cathedral.

See Pisa, San Gimignano & Siena in a single day with iconic sights, Tuscan charm, and a hearty lunch.

  • Day out to: the Leaning Tower of Pisa, scenic San Gimignano, and historic Siena from Florence.
  • You’ll get round-trip coach transfers, time to explore each destination, and a traditional Tuscan lunch with curated local pours.
  • Pisa & San Gimignano: Snap photos at the Leaning Tower in Pisa and enjoy a countryside lunch paired with regional flavors in San Gimignano.
  • Siena: Wander medieval alleyways, bustling piazzas, and Gothic landmarks in the heart of Siena.
  • Upgrades: Enhance your visit with a guided walking tour of Siena and optional entry to its iconic cathedral.

Inclusions

  • Full-day trip around Pisa, San Gimignano, and Siena
  • Multilingual assistance on board
  • Pick up from Florence
  • Round-trip AC coach transfer
  • Lunch with local blends in San Gimignano
  • Guided tour of Siena city center (as per option selected)
  • Guided tour of Siena Cathedral and city center (as per option selected)

Exclusions

  • Hotel transfers
  • Personal expenses

What to bring

  • Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves a fair amount of walking.
  • For entry to Siena Cathedral (if selected), wear clothing that covers knees and shoulders.
  • Bring a valid ID if you plan to taste regional pairings.

What's not allowed

  • Alcoholic beverages will not be served to guests under 18 years of age.

Accessibility

  • This experience is not accessible for wheelchair users or pram/strollers.

Additional information

  • Guests under 18 can join the tour only if accompanied by at least one adult.
  • The order of visits may change depending on traffic or local conditions.
  • Hotel transfers are not included.
  • Personal expenses (souvenirs, additional snacks, optional upgrades) are not included.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Aerial view of San Gimignano with medieval towers and surrounding countryside.
Siena Cathedral with tourists in the square, part of San Gimignano, Siena, Monteriggioni, Chianti day trip.
Group walking through vineyard on Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti day trip.
Visitors at the steps of a historic church in San Gimignano, Italy.
Wine being poured into a glass during a Chianti tasting on a Florence day trip.
Tourists taking a selfie in front of historic architecture in San Gimignano, Italy.
Aerial view of Monteriggioni's medieval walls and surrounding Tuscan landscape.
Aerial view of Chianti winery with vineyards and Tuscan landscape.
Passengers seated inside a tour bus traveling from Paris to Mont St. Michel's Abbey.
Aerial view of San Gimignano with medieval towers and surrounding countryside.
Siena Cathedral with tourists in the square, part of San Gimignano, Siena, Monteriggioni, Chianti day trip.
Group walking through vineyard on Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti day trip.
Visitors at the steps of a historic church in San Gimignano, Italy.
Wine being poured into a glass during a Chianti tasting on a Florence day trip.
Tourists taking a selfie in front of historic architecture in San Gimignano, Italy.
Aerial view of Monteriggioni's medieval walls and surrounding Tuscan landscape.
Aerial view of Chianti winery with vineyards and Tuscan landscape.
Passengers seated inside a tour bus traveling from Paris to Mont St. Michel's Abbey.
Aerial view of San Gimignano with medieval towers and surrounding countryside.
Siena Cathedral with tourists in the square, part of San Gimignano, Siena, Monteriggioni, Chianti day trip.
Group walking through vineyard on Siena, San Gimignano, and Chianti day trip.
Visitors at the steps of a historic church in San Gimignano, Italy.
Wine being poured into a glass during a Chianti tasting on a Florence day trip.
Tourists taking a selfie in front of historic architecture in San Gimignano, Italy.
Aerial view of Monteriggioni's medieval walls and surrounding Tuscan landscape.
Aerial view of Chianti winery with vineyards and Tuscan landscape.
Passengers seated inside a tour bus traveling from Paris to Mont St. Michel's Abbey.
4.1(846)

Siena and San Gimignano Day trip from Florence

from
€79
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

9 hr - 11 hr
Transfers available
Meals included
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION10 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
Central Florence
Start point

Central Florence

Get direction
71 min by a/c bus
78.3 km
Siena

1. Siena

2 attractions

Highlights

59 min by a/c bus
45.5 km
Chianti Classico

2. Chianti Classico

1 activity

Things to do

55 min by a/c bus
46.4 km
San Gimignano

3. San Gimignano

1 attraction

Highlights

70 min by a/c bus
61.1 km
Central Florence
End point

Central Florence

Get direction

Your ending point would be same as your start point

Two Tuscan treasures, one unforgettable day: explore Siena and San Gimignano.

  • Day out to Siena and San Gimignano from Florence, all in one day.
  • You’ll get round-trip AC coach travel, a guide on-board, and independent sightseeing in these cities.
  • Siena & San Gimignano: Wander Siena’s historic streets on your own and admire San Gimignano’s medieval skyline, known as the 'Manhattan of the Middle Ages'.
  • Upgrades: Opt for a guided walking tour of Siena and entry to the grand Siena Cathedral for deeper insight.

Two Tuscan treasures, one unforgettable day: explore Siena and San Gimignano.

  • Day out to Siena and San Gimignano from Florence, all in one day.
  • You’ll get round-trip AC coach travel, a guide on-board, and independent sightseeing in these cities.
  • Siena & San Gimignano: Wander Siena’s historic streets on your own and admire San Gimignano’s medieval skyline, known as the 'Manhattan of the Middle Ages'.
  • Upgrades: Opt for a guided walking tour of Siena and entry to the grand Siena Cathedral for deeper insight.

Inclusions

  • Full-day trip around Siena and San Gimignano
  • Multilingual assistance on board
  • Pick up from Florence
  • Free tine to explore Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Free time to explore San Gimignano
  • Round-trip AC coach transfer with Wi-Fi and USB charging on board
  • Guided tour of Siena city center (as per option selected)
  • Entry to Siena Cathedral and Piccolomini Library (as per option selected)
  • Tip: It's possible to walk along the 2176-metre perimeter of the second circle of city walls that mark the historical centre of San Gimignano.
  • This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
  • The wine tasting experience is restricted for guests under the age of 18 years.
  • Guests under 18 can join the tour if they are each accompanied by at least one adult.
  • Guests who have opted to visit the Siena Cathedral must wear clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.
  • This tour involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are highly recommended.
  • Please note that the order of visits is subject to change.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
FlorenceFlorence To Siena Tours

Things to know before booking a Florence to Siena day trip

  • The trip from Florence to Siena takes approximately 1.5–2 hours. Day trips usually last 10–12 hours, depending on the itinerary. Most tours start early in the morning (around 7–9am) and return by evening.
  • Meeting points are generally central, such as near the Florence train station. Do remember to arrive 15 minutes early before your meeting time to avoid any delays and complications.
  • Organized day trips are great for taking a Florence to Siena day trip, especially if it's your first time. You'll skip the stress of navigating public transport with round-trip AC Coach transfers. Plus, many tours include lunch, wine tasting, and guided visits to nearby gems like San Gimignano or Pisa—all at a great price. It's a relaxed and cost-effective way to experience the best of Tuscany!
  • Many day trips include guided visits to Siena’s highlights, such as the historic Piazza del Campo and Siena Cathedral. Other tours give you some free time to explore charming cobblestone streets, shop, or enjoy coffee at a local café.
  • Our itineraries also feature visits to nearby destinations like San Gimignano, Pisa, or the Chianti wine region—ideal for those looking to cover the most ground in a day. Do note that entry tickets to landmarks such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa or Siena Cathedral may not be included, unless mentioned otherwise.
  • Some tours include a traditional Tuscan lunch and wine tasting as part of the experience. Others offer these as optional add-ons, allowing you to personalize your trip.
  • Siena’s historic center has steep and narrow cobblestone streets, making it less accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
  • If your visit coincides with the Palio di Siena (July and August), book at least one month - two weeks in advance. This historic horse race is wildly popular and may impact your planned time in Siena due to large crowds.

Your Florence to Siena day trip options explained

Experience
Inclusions
Wine tasting
Lunch
Mode of transfer
Tuscany, Siena, San Gimignano & Pisa Day Trip (9-11 hrs)
Tour of Tuscany, Siena, San Gimignano, Pisa Local expert guide
Optional
Optional
GT Coach
Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti Day Trip with Wine Tasting (11:30 hrs)
Trip around San Gimignano, Chianti Guided tour of Siena Vineyard visit
🚫
AC Coach
Pisa, San Gimignano, Siena & Chianti Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting (12-14 hrs)
Tour around Pisa, Chianti Lunch with wine in San Gimignano Guided tour of Siena and Siena Cathedral (optional)
AC Coach
Siena, San Gimignano & Chianti Day Trip with Lunch & Wine Tasting (9-11 hrs)
Vineyard visit, lunch & wine tasting in Chianti Tour around San Gimignano Guided tours of Siena and Siena Cathedral (optional)
AC Coach
Top highlights of your Florence to Siena day trip

Other stops on your Florence to Siena day trip

How to get to Siena from Florence?

By train
By bus
By car

Best for: Comfortable and scenic ride.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour 19 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes.
Closest station/stop: Florence Santa Maria Novella (S.M.N.) Station; Siena Station.
Frequency: About 14 trains per day.
Timings: 6:20am - 9:44pm

  • Direct trains, operated by Trenitalia, travel from Florence to Siena. Departing from Florence Santa Maria Novella, the journey is approximately 49 kilometers and offers picturesque views of the Tuscan countryside. 
  • Trains typically run every hour, making it easy to find a departure that fits your schedule. 
  • Upon arrival at Siena Station, you can take a short bus ride or walk to reach the city center. Tickets generally start around €10, but booking in advance can yield better prices.

Best for: Budget travel and direct routes.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Closest stop: Firenze Autostazione; San Domenico in Siena.
Frequency: Hourly throughout the day.
Timings: Check local schedules for exact times.

  • Buses from Florence to Siena are operated by Autolinee Toscane and provide a direct route with no transfers required. 
  • This mode of transport is often more economical than trains, with fares ranging from €1 to €22 depending on the time of booking. 
  • Buses arrive at San Domenico in Siena, which is conveniently located near the city center.

Best for: Flexible exploration
Duration: Approximately 1 hour (depending on traffic).

  • Driving from Florence to Siena lets you set your own pace, make scenic stops, and explore Tuscany beyond Siena.
  • The distance is about 72 kilometers via the Raccordo Autostradale Firenze-Siena (RA3), taking roughly an hour under normal traffic conditions. 
  • A quick heads-up: Parking in Siena can be a bit tricky. Spaces can be limited, and you might need to walk a bit to reach the city center. So, be sure to check local parking regulations before you arrive.

How to get around Siena?

Walking

  • Best for: Exploring the historic center.
  • Siena’s historic center is largely pedestrianized, making it ideal for walking. Key attractions like Piazza del Campo and the Duomo are easily accessible on foot.
  • Tip: Wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobbled streets and incline

Local buses

  • Best for: Reaching areas to and beyond the city center.
  • The local bus system, operated by Autolinee Toscane, connects neighborhoods and the train station to the city center. Ticket costed €1.50 for a one-way ticket, valid for transfers. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, vending machines, or onboard the bus (validate before boarding). Key bus stops include Piazza Gramsci, which is close to the train station and central attractions.
  • Tip: Buy tickets in advance and validate them on board.

Taxis

  • Best for: Convenient, quick transport.
  • Taxis are readily available throughout the city and are particularly useful for trips with luggage or to less accessible areas. Taxi stands are located at major squares like Piazza del Campo and near the train station.
  • Tip: Confirm fares upfront.

Bicycle rentals

  • Best for: Exploring Siena’s countryside.
  • Renting a bike is a great way to enjoy scenic views outside the city. Several rental shops are available near the city center. Look for local shops that offer rentals, such as those near Piazza del Campo or along Via Banchi di Sopra.
  • Tip: Stay mindful of traffic and cycling rules.

Additional tips

  • Train station access: The train station is about a 20-minute walk from the city center. If you prefer not to walk uphill, take a bus from the station to Piazza Gramsci or use local taxis.
  • Parking information: If driving, note that parking is limited within the city walls. Look for designated parking areas outside the historic center.

Best time to visit Siena

Peak Season (June–August)

Summer in Siena is lively and vibrant, especially with events like the famous Palio horse race on July 2 and August 16, which draws large crowds. Expect warm weather, with highs between 27–35°C (81–95°F), perfect for outdoor activities but busy with tourists. Book accommodations early, as prices and availability are affected by festival crowds.

Off-Season (November–March)

Ideal for a quieter, budget-friendly experience. Winters are mild but can be chilly, with lows around 3°C (37°F) in January and higher rainfall, particularly in November. While major events are fewer, Siena’s local charm and cozy atmosphere make this a peaceful time to explore.

Festival considerations

Besides the Palio, summer features the Siena Jazz Festival in July. Fall is a great time for art lovers with the Siena Art Weekend in September, and December brings festive Christmas markets to the city.

Make the most of your time in Siena

What to eat?
Where to eat?
Where to stay?
Tips
  • Pici Pasta: Hand-rolled Sienese noodles made from flour and water, best enjoyed with garlic tomato sauce or wild boar ragù.
  • Panforte: A dense medieval cake of honey, nuts, and spices, traditionally paired with Vin Santo dessert wine.
  • Cinta Senese Meats: Cured meats from a prized Tuscan pig breed, including finocchiona salami and antipasti staples.
  • Ribollita: A hearty Tuscan soup of bread, beans, and vegetables like kale, rooted in rustic traditions.
  • Liver Crostini: Rich chicken or pork liver pâté served on toasted Tuscan bread, a local antipasto classic.
  • Scottiglia: A flavorful meat stew blending lamb, rabbit, chicken, and pork with tomatoes and red wine.
  • Pappa al Pomodoro: A rustic bread and tomato soup with garlic and basil, showcasing simple, hearty flavors.
  • La Compagnia dei Vinattieri: About 230 m from city center. Italian; cozy, with a well-priced tasting menu (€50). Try the pumpkin-stuffed pasta and braised beef.
  • Trattoria Papei: About 290 m from city center. Traditional Tuscan; local favorite near Piazza del Campo known for generous portions. Don’t miss the wild boar ragu and mixed grilled meats.
  • Osteria Enoteca Sotto Le Fonti: About 600 m from city center. Tuscan; family-run, perfect for meat lovers. Recommended: Florentine steak and local wines.
  • Antica Osteria Da Divo: About 300 m from city center. Etruscan-inspired; elegant cave setting with unique regional dishes. Pair Etruscan specialties with fine wines.
  • Caffe Fiorella: About 45 m from city center. Café; a local go-to for coffee and pastries. Great for a cappuccino and fresh pastries.
  • Il Carroccio: Traditional trattoria; authentic Sienese atmosphere. Must-try: Wild boar in sweet-and-sour sauce.

Tip: Many restaurants close in the early afternoon, so aim for a lunch spot before 2 pm for the best options, especially if you want to enjoy a leisurely Tuscan meal.

Neighborhoods of Siena

  • Historic Center: Stay in Siena’s medieval heart near landmarks like Piazza del Campo and the Duomo. Top choices: Grand Hotel Continental Siena, Palazzo del Papa, B&B Il Corso.
  • Near Piazza del Campo: Perfect for nightlife and dining, this lively area is close to Siena’s cultural hub. Recommended stays: Palazzo Giorgi, Osteria Enoteca Sotto Le Fonti, Salicotto 56.
  • San Prospero: A peaceful retreat just outside the city walls, ideal for families or serenity seekers. Stay at Hotel Palazzo di Valli or Porta Pispini Residence.
  • Istrice & Lupa: Residential and authentic, yet within walking distance of major attractions. Try Relais degli Angeli Residenza d’Epoca or Villa del Sole Siena.

Tips: Consider accommodations outside the city walls for lower prices without compromising on access. Stay near Piazza del Campo for vibrant evening activities and local social life.

  • Many smaller cafes, bakeries, and shops in Siena still operate on a cash-only basis. Bringing a bit of cash will come in handy, especially if you want to try local treats.
  • Each of Siena’s 17 districts, or contrade, has its own museum, showcasing the city’s deep-rooted traditions and unique history. These are often overlooked but offer a unique peek into local life.
  • While Piazza del Campo and the cathedral are must-sees, venture into less touristy areas like the Contrada di Onda or small artisan shops selling local crafts and products.
  • Siena's cobbled streets and hills are beautiful but can be tough on your feet. Choose comfortable shoes for easier exploring.
  • There are fountains around Siena where you can refill water, so

Frequently asked questions about Florence to Siena day trips

What’s the best mode of transport for a day trip to Siena?

Organized tours are an excellent choice for a stress-free, enriching day trip to Siena. If you’re self-exploring, we recommend buses for shorter travel time (about 1 hour and 15 minutes) and direct drop-off near the city center. The train takes about 1.5 hours and requires a longer walk to reach the main attractions.

Where do I catch the bus or train in Florence?

Buses depart from Firenze Autostazione, located near the Santa Maria Novella train station. Trains leave from Florence Santa Maria Novella (S.M.N.) Station.

Are there any recommended itineraries for a day trip to Siena?

A suggested itinerary could include:
Morning: Arrive a Siena, visit Piazza del Campo, and climb the Torre del Mangia.
Midday: Explore the Siena Cathedral.
Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a local trattoria.
Afternoon: Visit the Civic Museum or wander through the charming streets, stopping by lesser-known sites like Piazza Salimbeni.
Evening: Wander around Santa Maria della Scala or relax at La Fortezza Medicea for sunset views. Head back to Florence after a day immersed in Siena’s charm.

Will I get free time in Siena?

Yes, most tours include some free time to explore Siena at your own pace, shop, or enjoy a meal.

What should I know about parking if I drive to Siena?

Parking in Siena is limited within the historic center due to ZTL (Limited Traffic Zones). It’s best to park in designated lots outside the walls, such as Parking Santa Caterina or Parking Il Campo, and walk into the city center.

Are there any local festivals or events I should plan my visit around?

The most famous event is the Palio di Siena, held on July 2 and August 16. This historic horse race draws large crowds and creates a festive atmosphere. Other events include the Siena Jazz Festival in July and various local food festivals throughout the year.

Is a half-day trip enough for Siena?

A half-day trip covers the highlights but limits your experience. For a deeper dive into Siena's charm, a full-day trip is recommended.

Is it necessary to book tickets in advance for popular attractions in Siena?

It’s advisable to book tickets in advance for popular attractions like the Siena Cathedral and the Torre del Mangia, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines.

How accessible is Siena for visitors with mobility challenges?

While many areas of Siena are pedestrian-friendly, its cobblestone streets and steep inclines can be challenging for those with mobility issues. Some attractions may have accessibility options, but it’s best to check in advance.

What are some hidden gems in Siena that aren’t on typical tourist itineraries?

Consider visiting the peaceful gardens of the Orto de' Pecci, lesser-known church of San Domenico and the charming neighborhood of Contrada della Torre with its unique local shops.