Discover Tuscany: Top Day Trips from Siena
Siena, nestled in Tuscany's hill country, is surrounded by picturesque towns and monasteries, some active, others in ruins like the Abbey of San Galgano. The region boasts a variety of hotels and offers car rentals for visitors. The area is renowned for its medieval villages and main attractions, making Siena a prime base for exploring Tuscany.
While Siena itself has much to offer, it's also perfect for day trips to nearby Tuscan towns, even without a car. Trains and buses connect Siena to Florence, San Gimignano, and Arezzo, each about an hour away.
Here are the top destinations to visit from Siena:
1. Florence
Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, is home to iconic landmarks such as Brunelleschi's dome on the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Uffizi Gallery, and numerous palaces and museums. The historic center is a short walk from the train station, with frequent connections from Siena. Driving takes about 90 minutes, but parking can be challenging.
- Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Florence
2. San Gimignano
San Gimignano's skyline is defined by its 13 towers, remnants of its medieval past. The town's Romanesque church, Santa Maria Assunta, is adorned with frescoes. San Gimignano is accessible by train or bus from Siena and can be paired with a visit to Volterra, known for its alabaster and association with the "Twilight" series.
3. Montepulciano
Montepulciano, a walled city, is a blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture. A trip here can be combined with a visit to Pienza, a UNESCO World Heritage town, and includes sampling traditional Pecorino cheese.
4. Arezzo
Arezzo, a former Roman outpost, is rich in art from medieval and Renaissance periods, with notable frescoes and stained glass. The town's history is further explored in the Archaeological Museum.
5. Monte Oliveto Maggiore
This active monastery is known for its art, including frescoes by Luca Signorelli and Sodoma, and intricate wood inlay choir-stalls by Giovanni da Verona.
6. Pienza
Pienza, another UNESCO site, was transformed into a Renaissance utopia by Pope Pius II. The town features a cathedral, town hall, and the Piccolomini Palace, which hosts summer concerts.
7. Abbazía di Sant'Ántimo
This Romanesque abbey, possibly founded by Charlemagne, is known for its architecture and Gregorian chants performed by resident monks.
Official site: http://www.antimo.it/en/
8. Abbazia di San Galgano
The ruins of San Galgano, a Cistercian monastery, offer a glimpse into the austere architectural style and the region's monastic history.
9. Fortezza di Montalcino
Montalcino's fortress and medieval walls provide stunning views of the Tuscan countryside, while the town is known for its glass production.
10. Abbadia San Salvatore
This ancient abbey features a crypt with diverse columns and capitals, reflecting its long history and significance in Italy.
11. Chiesa dell'Osservanza
Near Siena, this church is known for its art, including a terra-cotta Annunciation by Andrea della Robbia and a nearby museum with various artworks.
12. Colle di Val d'Elsa
Colle di Val d'Elsa, divided into an upper and lower town, is rich in history with a cathedral and archaeological museum. It's a short bus ride from Siena.
13. Monteriggioni
Monteriggioni is a well-preserved medieval town, encircled by intact defensive walls and towers, offering a glimpse into Tuscany's past.
