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Siena, the complete guide.

Palio horse race, Gothic cathedral, panforte.

The Italia Magnifica guide · Updated October 2026

A Gothic city built across three hills, gathered around the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo where the Palio horse race is run twice each summer.

Its striped marble cathedral and the towering Torre del Mangia define a perfectly preserved medieval skyline.

When to visit Siena

Average highs and lows across the year.

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Month by month

Jan
Cold winter weather with occasional rain. Layer up and bring a warm coat.
Feb
Still winter-like with cold temperatures. Expect some rainy days.
Mar
Spring begins with mild temperatures. Weather can be changeable.
Apr
Pleasant spring weather with blooming flowers. Light jacket recommended.
May
Warm late spring days. Perfect for outdoor activities.
Jun
Summer arrives with warm, sunny days. Stay hydrated.
Jul
Peak summer heat. Best enjoyed with coastal breezes or air conditioning.
Aug
Hot summer continues. Many locals take vacations.
Sep
Pleasant early autumn. Still warm enough for light clothing.
Oct
Autumn weather sets in. Bring layers for cool evenings.
Nov
Cool autumn weather with increasing rain. Light jacket essential.
Dec
Winter conditions return. Cold and occasionally rainy.

What to see first

The striped marble facade and bell tower of Siena Cathedral

Siena Cathedral

Siena's black and white marble cathedral, famous for its inlaid floor and Nicola Pisano's Gothic pulpit.

Read the guide
Thin slices of arista pork loin with garlic, rosemary and pan juices

What to eat, and drink

Eating and drinking in Siena

Well-loved everyday tables and Michelin stars, each checked open.

  1. Osteria San MartinoOsteria
  2. Locanda dell'OsteTrattoria
  3. La Sosta di ViolanteOsteria
  4. Osteria degli SvitatiOsteria
  5. La Piccola CiaccineriaPizzeria
  6. Pizzeria Le Principesse di Sirio CampolungoPizzeria

Michelin-starred

  1. Il Visibilio ★
  2. L'Asinello ★
  3. Poggio Rosso ★

Sleeping in Siena

Well-reviewed places to stay, each checked open, by town.

  1. Certosa di Maggiano
  2. Hotel Palazzo di Valli
  3. Grand Hotel Continental Siena
  4. B&B Il Corso
  5. Il giardino di Pantaneto
  6. Villa il Borghetto

The year in Siena

The rituals, races, and processions the city still keeps.

  1. Every July and AugustPalio di Siena

Tours worth booking in Siena

Compared by our editors, across providers.

Booking through these links may earn Italia Magnifica a commission, at no cost to you.

  1. Truffle Hunting Experience Siena Tartufi

    • Viator
    • 2h
    • 5.0★ · 58 reviews
    from €140Book this tour

  2. Private Tour: Siena Walking Tour

    • Viator
    • 2h
    • 5.0★ · 49 reviews
    from €180Book this tour

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