The charming Siena

Siena is a city with a unique charm. Nestled in the heart of green Tuscany, among woods, olive groves, and vineyards, on three gentle hills, Siena is a city suited to slow, unhurried tourism. Together, we'll stroll its ancient streets, once frequented by pilgrims, merchants, and emperors. We'll stop to visit ancient basilicas containing precious relics; we'll wander through the city's 17 Contrade (districts), discussing the world's most famous and craziest horse race, the Palio; we'll stop to sample Siena's specialty pastries in one of the city's historic cafés; we'll marvel at the Gothic spires of Siena Cathedral, an absolute masterpiece; and then we'll pause in the shadow of the Torre del Mangia, the tower of the city's Palazzo Pubblico, in Piazza del Campo, the city's main square, with its distinctive shell-like shape, where the world's craziest horse race takes place twice a year. A walk that takes us back to the wonderful world of the Middle Ages.

We meet at the Basilica of St. Domenic and enter for a quick tour of the church, which houses the relic of Saint Catherine of Siena, patron Saint of Europe. We begin our walking tour, heading to the Monte dei Paschi, the world's oldest bank, and the Corso (main street). We stop at a beautiful historic café to sample Siena's pastries. We continue our walk to the Duomo (optional visit inside). After being dazzled by the beauty of the Duomo's marble façade, we'll descend to Piazza del Campo, the main square, with its unusual shell shape. This is where the Palio, the traditional horse race, takes place. During the tour, there's also the opportunity to visit the museum of one of the city's 17 Contrade, where you can learn more about the city's connection to this extraordinary race.