A day in Siena

As Florence’s southern rival, Siena and it’s charm, history, and valor present a worthy challenge. Impressive stone palazzos and winding streets lead to sumptuous piazzas and fountains.

One such piazza, Piazza del Campo, hosts the famous horse race, “Il Palio”, during July and August— this favorite summer activity combines the past and present, and transports the modern tourist back to the medieval ages.

Santa Maria della Scala and the Museo Civico present magnificent collections of frescoes by Ambrogio Lorenzetti as well as Simone Martini’s “La Maestà” (Piazza del Campo, 1).

The Torre Mangia, the Duomo and it’s Piccolomini Library, the Battistero, and the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo also offer the chance to interact with the world of the past.

To taste some of the local flavors, visit Osteria le Logge on Via del Porrione, 33, and try the “Pici al Torchio”.

Also not to miss:  OSTERIA BABAZUF. Not only an interesting name but this restaurant also has a fantastic menu of traditional dishes. One notable appetizer is the “Crostini con Milza”. This a crunchy delicious bread covered in a meat pate made from spleen and  is spot for the taste buds of the adventurous foodie at heart. Are you looking for a blast from the past?! Then do not miss out on dessert.  Babazuf’s medieval cake “Torta alla balconata” is a favourite dish of the locals and a unique dessert that you won’t find at many other restaurants in Siena, Italy.

To book:  +390577222482.  Where: via Pantaneto ai numeri 85-87.

Conveniently located near the famous to Piazza del Campo, the magnificent central square of Siena, it is a great place to refuel after enjoying a morning walking tour of Siena’s historic centre. For opening times check their website.

Pre or post-meal shopping must include stopping at:

• the bookstore of the Santa Maria della Scala Museum Complex (Piazza del Duomo, 1) for anything from the Slow Living guide to Italian Osteria’s, to children’s art books.
• Aloe & Wolf is a lovely vintage shop on Via del Porrione, 23,
• while Dolci Trame (Via del Moro 4) is known for a wide collection of emerging Italian designers. Bianco e Nero di Sonia Staccioli (Via Fusari, 21) has gorgeous pottery for unique souvenirs.

To tour; Roberta Piccinetti +393388717288 she is the best tour guide in Siena!

Easy parking for a day in Siena can be found at the  Santa Caterina Parking Lot, Via Esterna Di Fontebranda, 15.

Directions:

(Only 91 km from il Fontanaro)