Outside the walls: finding accommodation beyond the Historic Center

Siena

Living in Siena is a unique experience, with its rich artistic and cultural heritage, the charm of the Historic Center, and the vibrant city life.
However, finding housing within the ancient walls can be a challenge for many students. But don’t worry: living outside the Historic Center can be a great alternative, with several advantages to consider, especially if you’re studying at faculties like Medicine or the University for Foreigners, which are located outside the center.

Here’s what to expect if you decide to live outside the walls.

Benefits of Living Outside the Historic Center

  • More Spacious and Modern Apartments: While living in the Historic Center of Siena offers proximity to city landmarks and charming historical buildings, these spaces may not always be the most practical for student life. Outside the walls, apartments are often newer, more spacious, and equipped with better utilities and modern comforts.
  • More Parking for Car Owners: If you own a car, living outside the Historic Center has a significant advantage: more parking opportunities. You’ll find it easier to park outside the city center.

Strategic Areas Outside the Historic Center

  • Ravacciano: A popular residential neighborhood for students and young professionals due to its proximity to both the city center and the train station. The area is well-served by public transport and supermarkets and offers a good range of apartment options.
  • San Prospero: Located just outside the walls, this neighborhood is ideal for those who want to live close to the center while enjoying a peaceful atmosphere. It’s well-connected and offers great services, with the city center within walking distance.
  • Colonna San Marco: Another strategic area for those wanting to live outside the Historic Center without being too far away. Colonna San Marco is well-connected to the center and the main university faculties, with plenty of shops and services.
  • Petriccio/Acquacalda: A more peripheral neighborhood, but well-served by public transportation and close to sports facilities. Here, you’ll find supermarkets, gyms, and other useful amenities, with the center about a 20-minute walk or a few minutes by bus.
  • San Miniato: Ideal for students of Medicine or Science faculties, due to its proximity to the hospital and university campuses.
  • Coroncina: Located in the southern part of Siena, this semi-peripheral residential area has local services and is only a few minutes by bus from the center.
  • Montarioso: Situated north of the city, Montarioso is a modern and peaceful residential area often chosen by students of scientific faculties and the hospital.
  • Stazione Area: Perfect for those seeking quick public transport connections both within Siena and to other cities. There are plenty of shops and essential services in this area.

Getting around

One of the main concerns for those living outside the center is commuting. However, in Siena, this is not an issue thanks to an efficient and well-organized public bus network, with plenty of student discounts on passes. Major bus routes connect the outer neighborhoods to the center and university faculties. If you prefer moving around on your own, an electric bike (Siena also has a great bike-sharing service) or a scooter can be excellent options to cover distances without dealing with traffic or parking.

Discover how to get around in Siena

Services and Amenities

Living outside the walls also means easy access to services: from supermarkets to gyms, pharmacies, and essential shops. The neighborhoods outside the Historic Center are well-serviced and offer everything a student needs. Many areas also feature public parks where you can relax or enjoy outdoor activities.

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