Family Adventure in the Heart of Siena

Siena, Until Next Time

As our family adventure in Siena draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we’ve shared. From the bustling Piazza del Campo to the tranquil Tuscan countryside, Siena has captured our hearts with its timeless beauty and rich history. Today, our final day, was all about soaking in those last moments and discovering a few more hidden gems before we bid arrivederci to this enchanting city.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Vivace Ristorante.


Experience exquisite Italian cuisine at Vivace Ristorante in Siena—where every dish tells a story and every bite is a delight.

Sipping on cappuccinos while enjoying the fresh pastries, we were treated to a stunning view of the rolling hills surrounding Siena. The kids were especially thrilled, pointing out the vineyards and olive groves that dotted the landscape. It was the perfect way to start our final day, feeling refreshed and ready for more exploration.

First on our itinerary was the Palazzo Pretorio.


Discover the historical richness of Palazzo Pretorio in Certaldo, a medieval gem showcasing art and culture with stunning views.

This historic palace, once the seat of the Vicariate and prison of the Republic of Siena in the 1300s, has undergone numerous expansions over the centuries. Exploring its depths, including the intriguing basement with its ancient tunnels carved into the tuff, was like stepping back in time. Sophie was fascinated by the stories of knights and nobles, while Jean-Pierre, ever the history buff, was captivated by the architectural details. The Palazzo Pretorio offered a glimpse into Siena's past, enriching our understanding of this remarkable city.

The beauty of Siena lies not only in its iconic landmarks but also in the hidden corners that whisper tales of centuries past.

Next, we strolled along the Via di Città.


Explore the picturesque Via di Città in Siena, where medieval charm meets vibrant Italian culture, and discover the heart of this historic city.

The street was bustling with activity, locals and tourists alike browsing the many shops that lined the way. From handcrafted leather goods to colorful ceramics, there was something for everyone. Sophie was particularly excited by a small shop selling hand-painted masks, and after much deliberation, she chose a beautiful butterfly mask to take home as a souvenir. I found myself drawn to the local artisan shops, picking up a few unique gifts for friends and family back in Lyon. It was a joy to wander through the streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and discovering the treasures that Siena had to offer.

Continuing our exploration, we made our way to the University of Siena.


Experience the profound legacy of education at the historic University of Siena, a cultural cornerstone in the heart of Tuscany.

Founded in 1240, this historic university is one of the oldest in Europe. As we walked through the campus, we admired the beautiful architecture and soaked in the youthful energy of the students. Jean-Pierre and I reminisced about our own university days, while Sophie imagined herself studying here one day. The University of Siena is not only a place of learning but also a symbol of the city's enduring commitment to knowledge and culture.

For lunch, we stopped at Casato Ristorante Wine Bar.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Casato Ristorante Wine Bar in Siena – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

This charming restaurant offered a delightful menu of traditional Sienese dishes, along with an extensive wine list. We started with some delicious bruschetta, followed by handmade pasta with wild boar ragu – a local specialty. The flavors were incredible, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. Sophie even tried a bite of the ragu and declared it her new favorite food! It was the perfect spot to relax and refuel after a morning of sightseeing.

In the afternoon, we decided to do some more shopping at Galleria PortaSiena.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Galleria PortaSiena, where modern retail meets the charm of traditional Siena.

This modern shopping center offered a wide variety of stores, from clothing boutiques to cosmetics shops. Sophie was thrilled to find a Goldenpoint store, where she picked out some colorful socks and hair accessories. Jean-Pierre and I enjoyed browsing the various shops, picking up a few practical items for our trip back to Lyon. The Galleria PortaSiena provided a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience, adding a touch of modern flair to our day.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Trattoria la Torre for our final dinner in Siena.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Trattoria la Torre in Siena - where every dish tells a story.

This cozy trattoria is known for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and friendly atmosphere. We started with some classic Tuscan appetizers, followed by hearty portions of pici pasta with cacio e pepe and ossobuco. The food was absolutely delicious, and the service was warm and welcoming. It felt like we were dining in someone's home, surrounded by the comforting aromas of Italian cooking.

The fact that the waiter recited the entire menu to us added to the charm of the dining experience. He was so passionate about the food and eager to share his recommendations. It was a truly memorable meal, and the perfect way to end our culinary journey through Siena.

Before heading back to the Hotel Palazzetto Rosso, we took one last stroll through the Piazza del Campo.


Discover a charming oasis in Siena at Hotel Palazzetto Rosso, where comfort meets convenience for an unforgettable stay in this historic city.

The square was bathed in the warm glow of the streetlights, and the atmosphere was magical. We sat for a few moments, soaking in the sights and sounds of this historic square, and reflecting on our incredible week in Siena.

As we prepare to leave Siena tomorrow and drive back to Lyon, I am filled with gratitude for the memories we’ve made. This family adventure has been an incredible experience, and I know that we will cherish these moments for years to come. Siena, with its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine, has truly captured our hearts. Arrivederci, Siena, until next time!

I'm already looking forward to sharing our next adventure with you all!