Family Adventure in the Heart of Siena

A Day of Siena's Hidden Gems

Today was a day of unexpected discoveries and delightful indulgences in Siena. From exploring the depths of religious history to savoring the sweetness of local delicacies, Siena continued to surprise and enchant us. It's amazing how much this medieval city has to offer beyond the well-trodden paths, and I'm so glad we ventured off to find some of its hidden gems.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ristorante San Desiderio. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Italian coffee filled the air, a perfect start to our explorations. I opted for a simple yet satisfying pastry, while Jean-Pierre enjoyed a more substantial breakfast of eggs and local cheese. Sophie, of course, was thrilled with her chocolate croissant. It's these little moments of normalcy that make traveling as a family so special. We chatted about our plans for the day, excitement building for the adventures ahead. After breakfast, fully fueled and ready to go, we set off to explore the Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico.

The Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico , a majestic church dedicated to Saint Catherine of Siena, was our first stop. As we approached the basilica, its imposing Gothic architecture dominated the skyline. The sheer size of the building was awe-inspiring, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence as we stepped inside. The interior was vast and echoing, with soaring arches and intricate stained-glass windows that cast colorful patterns across the stone floor. The atmosphere was heavy with history and spirituality, a testament to the countless prayers and ceremonies that had taken place within its walls over the centuries. What struck me most was the absence of columns in the main lobby, creating an enormous, open space that amplified the sense of grandeur. We spent a good amount of time wandering through the basilica, admiring the various chapels and artworks. Saint Catherine's relics are housed here, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The hushed reverence of the visitors was palpable, and I found myself reflecting on the power of faith and the enduring legacy of this remarkable woman. Sophie, surprisingly, was captivated by the stained-glass windows, pointing out the different colors and figures. It's moments like these that remind me how travel can broaden a child's perspective and spark their curiosity about the world.


Discover the serenity and artistic splendor of Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico, a historic gem in the heart of Siena, Italy.

The beauty of Siena lies not only in its grand monuments but also in the quiet corners where history whispers and flavors linger.

Next on our list was the Facciatone , the unfinished façade of the Duomo Nuovo (New Cathedral), which promised panoramic views of Siena. The story behind the Facciatone is fascinating. In the 14th century, Siena was at the height of its power and wealth, and the city leaders decided to expand the existing cathedral into a colossal structure that would rival St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Construction began in 1339, but the Black Death of 1348 decimated the population and brought the ambitious project to a halt. Today, the Facciatone stands as a reminder of Siena's grand ambitions and the devastating impact of the plague.


Experience the breathtaking views and historical richness of Facciatone, a must-visit tourist attraction in Siena's Piazza del Duomo.

The climb to the top of the Facciatone was not for the faint of heart. The narrow, winding staircase seemed to go on forever, and I found myself pausing frequently to catch my breath. Sophie, however, was unfazed, scampering ahead with boundless energy. Finally, we emerged onto the observation deck, and the view was simply breathtaking. From our vantage point, we could see the entire city of Siena spread out before us, a tapestry of red-tiled roofs, medieval towers, and winding streets. The iconic Piazza del Campo was clearly visible, and I could almost imagine the excitement of the Palio horse race. Jean-Pierre pointed out various landmarks, sharing his knowledge of Siena's history and architecture. The panoramic vista was a perfect illustration of Siena's rich past and artistic achievements. The experience was a powerful reminder of the city's resilience and enduring beauty, a testament to the spirit of its people.

After soaking in the views from the Facciatone , we descended back into the heart of Siena, our stomachs rumbling with hunger. Lunch was at Osteria La Sosta di Violante , a charming osteria known for its traditional Sienese cuisine. We were lucky to snag a table outside, where we could enjoy the lively atmosphere of the street. I ordered the pici pasta with ragu, a local specialty, while Jean-Pierre opted for the grilled steak. Sophie, as always, chose the lasagna. The food was simple but delicious, bursting with fresh, local flavors. The pici pasta was perfectly al dente, and the ragu was rich and savory. Jean-Pierre's steak was cooked to perfection, tender and juicy. Even Sophie, who can be a picky eater, devoured her lasagna. We savored every bite, accompanied by a bottle of local wine. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning adventures and soak in the ambiance of Siena.


Discover authentic Tuscan flavors at Osteria La Sosta di Violante in Siena, where traditional recipes meet local ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Antica Drogheria Manganelli 1879. This historic shop, established in 1879, is a treasure trove of local delicacies and gourmet products. As soon as we stepped inside, we were enveloped in a sensory overload of aromas and colors. Shelves were stacked high with panforte, ricciarelli, cantucci, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and countless other tempting treats. The shop itself is a piece of history, with its original wooden fixtures and vintage signage. It felt like stepping back in time, a glimpse into Siena's culinary past. We spent a good hour browsing the shelves, sampling various products, and chatting with the friendly staff. I couldn't resist buying a selection of panforte and ricciarelli to take back to Lyon as gifts for friends and family. Sophie, of course, was drawn to the colorful candies and chocolates. It was a delightful experience, a chance to immerse ourselves in Siena's local culture and discover some new favorite flavors.


Experience authentic Italian flavors at Antica Drogheria Manganelli, a historic grocery store in Siena offering a delightful selection of local products.

Our final stop of the day was the Battistero di San Giovanni Battista , located beneath the Siena Cathedral. This baptistery is a hidden gem, often overlooked by tourists, but it's well worth a visit. We descended the staircase to Piazza San Giovanni and entered the cool, dimly lit interior. The main attraction is the hexagonal baptismal font, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture created by some of the most renowned artists of the time, including Donatello and Jacopo della Quercia. The bronze panels depict scenes from the life of John the Baptist, each one a work of art in its own right. The details were incredible, and I found myself marveling at the skill and artistry of the sculptors. Sophie was fascinated by the figures, asking questions about their stories and significance. The frescoes on the walls and ceiling added to the sense of grandeur, creating a truly awe-inspiring space. The Battistero di San Giovanni Battista is a testament to Siena's artistic heritage and a reminder of the importance of faith and tradition.


Discover the stunning Battistero di San Giovanni Battista in Siena, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a significant site of Christian heritage.

For dinner, we decided to try Grotta Santa Caterina da Bagoga , a restaurant recommended for its authentic Tuscan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. Tucked away from the main streets, this restaurant exuded a rustic charm that immediately appealed to us. The interior was warm and inviting, with exposed brick walls, arched ceilings, and soft lighting. The menu featured a range of traditional Sienese dishes, and we struggled to make a decision. I finally settled on the handmade pasta with ragu, while Jean-Pierre chose the Florentine steak. Sophie, predictably, opted for the gnocchi. The food was exceptional, some of the best we've had on this trip. My pasta was perfectly cooked, and the ragu was rich and flavorful. Jean-Pierre's steak was enormous, cooked to perfection, and incredibly tender. Even Sophie, who can be a tough critic, raved about her gnocchi. The service was attentive and friendly, making us feel right at home. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and discovery in Siena.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Grotta Santa Caterina da Bagoga in Siena - a culinary haven nestled in a serene alley.

As we walked back to Hotel Palazzetto Rosso [TravelAccommodationID], under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but reflect on the day's adventures. Siena had revealed its layers of history, art, and culture, leaving me with a sense of awe and appreciation. Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Orto Botanico dell'Università di Siena, Chigi Piccolomini Palace and Palazzo Salimbeni [Itinerary of Tomorrow]. I'm excited to see what new treasures await us in this enchanting city. It's moments like these that make me realize how lucky I am to be able to share these experiences with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. And I'm already looking forward to sharing more of our journey with you all!


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