Cities near Siena

Discover the heart of Tuscany

Day trips starting in Siena

The countryside surrounding Siena is world-famous. Chianti, Val d’Orcia, and the Crete Senesi valley are cultural landscapes that are appreciated for their historical and natural value. The surroundings of medieval Siena embody a philosophy of life based on harmony and a lifestyle of well-being. In an effort to promote slow tourism in the unspoiled countryside, you can enjoy horse riding or hiking along the Via Francigenaamong rolling hills covered in miles of vineyards and olive groves and dotted with small villages protected by imposing city walls, ancient castles, fortresses, cottages and renowned wineries.

What to see in Siena’s surroundings

Small jewels of medieval art and architecture appear among the hills of Siena. Some of the most popular towns are San Gimignano, the ‘city of beautiful towers’; the fortified town of Monteriggioni, renowned for the City Walls; Colle di Val d’Elsa, known as the city of Crystal; Pienza, built by Pope Pius II and home of pecorino cheese; Montepulciano and its underground cellars; Bagno Vignoni, with the most famous hot springs in Val d’Orcia; Montalcino, home of Brunello wine, and many others. Each has something unique to offer from landscapes to gastronomic souvenirs, from Renaissance palaces to monumental gates.

We call them walking tours because each village is as free from traffic, allowing you to leave your car behind for a leisurely stroll through Tuscan gems where time truly seems to stand still.

In addition, its iconic hills are also dotted with castles, small country churches, abbeys and farms that pop up among the striking cypress avenues, majestic olive trees and quaint vineyards.