Exploring the Historic Charm of Siena with My Spouse

Sunday Strolls and Sienese Secrets

Today was a day of wandering off the beaten path in Siena, a delightful exploration beyond the bustling Piazza del Campo. Elena and I set out to discover some of the city's lesser-known treasures, and we were not disappointed. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the joy of stumbling upon unexpected beauty and history.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Osteria degli Svitati. It's a cozy little place, and I remembered reading that the name came from a historical group of students from the 1600's, which made me chuckle. I decided to try the pappardelle, and Elena had a caprese salad. The coffee was perfect, strong and aromatic, just the way I like it to start my day.

First on our itinerary was the Loggia della Mercanzia. I've always been fascinated by the transition between architectural styles, and this building perfectly demonstrates the shift from medieval Gothic to Renaissance elegance. As we approached the Loggia, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the history that had unfolded within its walls. Built in the early 15th century, the Loggia served as a merchant court, a place where trade and commerce shaped the destiny of Siena. Elena and I admired the statues of saints gracing the pillars, each a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. We took our time, circling the Loggia, admiring the details and soaking in the atmosphere. It's amazing to think that this building has stood here for centuries, witnessing the ebb and flow of Sienese life. The Loggia della Mercanzia stands at the Croce del Travaglio, where three of Siena's most important streets meet. It is a perfect example of the transition from Gothic to Renaissance architecture.


Explore the historical charm of Loggia della Mercanzia, a stunning architectural marvel in the heart of Siena that reflects the city's rich mercantile past.

Sometimes, the most rewarding travel experiences come from simply allowing yourself to get lost and discover the hidden corners of a city.

Next, we made our way to the Orto Botanico dell'Università di Siena. As someone who enjoys gardening, I was particularly excited about this visit. The botanical garden, established in 1588, is a green valley within the city walls. We wandered through winding paths lined with vibrant flowers, lush trees, and meticulously curated plant collections. It was a welcome escape from the summer heat. I was impressed by the diversity of plant species, from native Italian flora to exotic plants from around the world. Elena was particularly taken with the greenhouse, which houses a collection of tropical plants and succulents. We spent a good hour exploring the garden, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and learning about the different plant species. It’s amazing to see how the garden has evolved from its initial purpose of cultivating medicinal herbs to become a center for botanical research and environmental education.


Explore the serene beauty of Orto Botanico dell'Università di Siena, a botanical garden rich in biodiversity and tranquility.

After our refreshing time in the gardens, we decided to visit the Chigi Piccolomini Palace. This beautiful palace dates back to the 16th century and is filled with fascinating paintings, frescoes, and stucco work. We learned that the palace was commissioned by Scipione di Cristofano Chigi, who wanted to create a grand residence for his family. The palace later passed to the Piccolomini Adami family before being acquired by the state in 1959. Each room told a story, and I found myself captivated by the intricate details of the frescoes and the opulent furnishings. I was particularly impressed by the Salone, which features stunning frescoes depicting scenes from the Old Testament. Elena was drawn to the second floor, where the Storie di Camillo are displayed within rich stucco decorations. The palace offers a glimpse into the lives of the Sienese nobility and the artistic trends of the time. Apparently guided tours are held in April and May, but we were happy to wander at our own pace.


Explore the exquisite Chigi Piccolomini Palace in Siena, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and art, rich in history and beauty.

As the afternoon wore on, we found ourselves in need of a refreshing drink. We stopped at Bar Impero Siena, a modern-looking bar. We ordered a couple of spritzes and relaxed, watching the world go by. The service was friendly, and the drinks were perfect for a warm afternoon. It was a nice spot to recharge before our evening activities.


Discover the heart of Siena at Bar Impero, where Italian café tradition meets modern charm in a delightful atmosphere.

For lunch, we chose Ristorante San Desiderio, drawn in by its charming atmosphere and the promise of authentic Tuscan cuisine. The restaurant is located near the Duomo, and its interior pays tribute to the Palio races with beautiful horse photos. We started with the mushroom soup, which was creamy and flavorful, followed by the gnocchi. Elena ordered the risotto with seafood. The food was fresh and delicious, and the service was attentive. It was the perfect place for a leisurely lunch.


Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante San Desiderio in Siena—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

Our day concluded with dinner at Osteria Le Sorelline. We shared a plate of pasta and tiramisu. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, and the prices were reasonable. We enjoyed the friendly service and the delicious food. It was a wonderful way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Tuscan flavors at Osteria Le Sorelline in Siena – where tradition meets taste.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Basilica dell'Osservanza, the Palace of the Captain, and the Musei dell’Accademia dei Fisiocritici. Elena is also keen on visiting Aloe&Wolf, a shop she read about. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery in this beautiful city.

As I reflect on our day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore Siena and experience its hidden gems. It's moments like these that make travel so rewarding, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

The warmth of the Tuscan sun, the taste of authentic Italian cuisine, and the beauty of Siena's hidden corners – these are the memories I will cherish long after we leave this enchanting city. It's a reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventures are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet moments of discovery that unfold when you least expect them.

I think I'll end the day with a little ukulele playing. I'm still learning, but it's a relaxing way to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. Ciao for now!