Family Exploration of Historic Arezzo

A Day in Siena

Today, our family journey took us to the heart of Tuscany: Siena. After several days immersed in Arezzo, a change of scenery was welcome, and Siena, with its medieval allure, promised a day of exploration and discovery. I was excited to delve into the history and culture that permeates every corner of this iconic city, and I was also looking forward to the culinary delights that awaited us.

Our morning began with a hearty breakfast at Jungle In Town. It was a delightful way to fuel up for a day of walking and sightseeing. The café had a lively atmosphere, and the pastries were simply divine. Sophie particularly enjoyed her cappuccino, declaring it the best she'd had so far on our trip.


Explore Jungle In Town in Arezzo - where culinary creativity meets a welcoming gastropub atmosphere with exceptional beer and steak offerings.

With our appetites satisfied, we set off to explore the famed Piazza del Campo, Siena's central square. The square is renowned for its unique shell shape and its architectural integrity. As we stepped into the piazza, I was immediately struck by its grandeur and the way it seemed to cradle the city's history within its embrace. The square is divided into nine sections, a tribute to the Nine Lords who governed Siena in the late 13th century. It felt like stepping back in time, imagining the bustling markets and public gatherings that had taken place here for centuries.


Experience the enchanting ambiance of Piazza del Campo, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Siena, Italy, known for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural events.

The beauty of Siena lies not just in its monuments, but in the way its history is woven into the fabric of everyday life.

We then made our way to the Palazzo Pubblico, which overlooks the Piazza del Campo. This stunning building has housed the city's government since the 13th century. Today, parts of the Palazzo function as a civic museum, and we were eager to explore its artistic treasures. Inside, we wandered through rooms adorned with magnificent frescoes, each telling a story of Siena's past. The Allegory of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti was particularly striking, offering a glimpse into the values and concerns of medieval Sienese society. The frescoes depicted a recognizable view of Siena and its countryside. It was fascinating to see how art was used to convey political and social messages.


Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Palazzo Pubblico, a must-visit landmark in Siena, Italy, steeped in art and culture.

Climbing the Torre del Mangia was next on our list. The tower, which stands tall next to the Palazzo Pubblico, offered panoramic views of Siena and the surrounding Tuscan landscape. The climb was a bit strenuous, but the breathtaking vista from the top was well worth the effort. From up high, we could appreciate the city's layout, with its narrow streets and terracotta rooftops, and the rolling hills that stretched out into the distance.

After soaking in the views, we descended and strolled through the charming streets of Siena, eventually finding ourselves at Osteria Il Grottino for lunch. This cozy osteria promised a taste of traditional Tuscan cuisine, and it did not disappoint. Hans and I shared a hearty ribollita, a traditional Tuscan bread and vegetable soup, while Sophie opted for a pasta dish with a rich tomato sauce. The flavors were simple but satisfying, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting.


Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine at Osteria Il Grottino - where every dish tells a story.

With our bellies full, we continued our exploration, this time heading towards the Siena Cathedral, also known as the Duomo di Siena. As we approached the cathedral, I was awestruck by its grandeur and intricate façade. The exterior is constructed of white and greenish-black marble in alternating stripes, with the addition of red marble on the façade. The Duomo was built between 1215 and 1263. The bell tower has six bells, where the oldest one was cast in 1149. We stepped inside, we were enveloped in a sense of awe. The interior was just as impressive as the exterior, with its soaring columns, intricate marble floor, and stunning stained glass windows. The black and white stripes inside the cathedral are the symbolic colors of Siena. Every corner seemed to hold a masterpiece, from sculptures by Donatello to frescoes by Pinturicchio.


Discover the stunning Siena Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece showcasing exquisite art and architecture in the heart of Tuscany, Italy.

One of the highlights was the marble mosaic inlay and graffito floor, which Giorgio Vasari considered the most beautiful floor ever made. The Duomo acted as more than just a place of worship, it was the center of the city and a place to express civic pride.

After immersing ourselves in the Duomo's artistic splendor, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We stopped by Sugar, a local shop known for its delightful confections. Sophie's eyes lit up as she surveyed the displays of chocolates, candies, and pastries. We ended up buying a selection of treats to take back to our hotel for an evening indulgence.


Explore Sugar in Arezzo for a unique blend of local and international fashion, perfect for stylish travelers seeking a taste of Tuscany.

As evening approached, we made our way to Ristorante LaPieve for dinner. The restaurant promised a taste of authentic Sienese cuisine, and we were eager to experience it. The ambiance was elegant and refined, and the service was impeccable. We savored each bite of our meal, reflecting on the day's adventures and the beauty of Siena.


Discover authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante LaPieve in Arezzo – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Before heading back to Arezzo, we took one last stroll through the Piazza del Campo, now bathed in the soft glow of evening lights. The square was quieter than it had been during the day, but its magic remained palpable. We sat for a while, simply soaking in the atmosphere and savoring the memories we had created.

Today was more than just a day of sightseeing; it was an immersion into the heart and soul of Siena. From the grandeur of the Piazza del Campo to the artistic treasures of the Duomo, every moment was filled with wonder and discovery. I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family and to create memories that will last a lifetime. Tomorrow, we will be exploring the Castello di Montecchio Vesponi, Villa La Ripa, and Castiglion Fiorentino. I am excited to see what new adventures await us in this beautiful region of Tuscany.

As we drove back to our residence in Arezzo, I couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment. Siena had captivated us with its history, art, and culinary delights. It was a day that I will cherish forever, a reminder of the beauty and richness that Italy has to offer. Perhaps one day, we will return to Siena and delve even deeper into its many layers of history and culture. But for now, I am content with the memories we have made and the experiences we have shared. The Palio di Siena is a horse race held twice each year, on July 2 and August 16.