Siena offers a wide range of dining options, from fine dining restaurants to casual delis. During a recent trip, we tried several different places and found some excellent choices for every taste and budget.
La Campane
For a perfect lunch spot, head to La Campane, tucked away on a small side street just a short walk from Piazza del Campo. The service is quick and friendly, and the food is very good.
Must-Try Dishes
- Grilled chicken with balsamico served on shredded chicory
- Steak with rosemary and sage on a sizzling piece of slate
- Pici pasta with pork rib ragu
Location
La Campane is located at Via delle Campane, 6.
Antica Osteria Da Divo
Antica Osteria Da Divo is possibly one of the best restaurants in Siena. This beautiful and rustic restaurant is situated in subterranean Medieval chambers and Etruscan caverns, creating a unique and romantic atmosphere.
Dining Experience
The meal at Da Divo is outstanding, with beautifully presented dishes. One standout item is the risotto, which is served from a partially hollowed-out wheel of cheese. While the food is exceptional, the service can be hit or miss. During our visit, we experienced a delay in taking our dessert order, which was disappointing.
Pricing and Location
Expect to pay a bit more for a meal at Da Divo. The restaurant is located at Via Franciosa, 29, around the corner from the Baptistery of Saint John.
Gelateria Grom
For a refreshing treat, stop by Gelateria Grom. This gelateria serves artisanal gelato made with organically grown, seasonal ingredients.
Perfect for a Break
Enjoy your gelato while people-watching in the nearby Piazza del Campo. It’s the perfect way to take a break and soak up the atmosphere of Siena.
Location and Tips
Gelateria Grom is located at Via Banchi di Sopra, 13. Keep in mind that they don’t display the gelato in open canisters, so it’s a good idea to read the list of flavors on the wall before placing your order.
Zest Ristorante, Café & Wine Bar
For a modern wine bar experience, check out Zest Ristorante, Café & Wine Bar. Located just around the corner from our recommended hotel, it’s a great place to enjoy a glass of wine and take in the local neighborhood.
Terrace with a View
The street-side terrace at Zest offers a fantastic view of the neighborhood and the Duomo in the distance. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Siena.
Casual Dining Options
When you’re in the mood for something more casual or want to put together a picnic, there are a couple of excellent options in Siena.
Consorzio Agrario Siena
The Consorzio Agrario Siena is a grocery store that offers regional foods, deli items, baked goods, and specialty products at reasonable prices.
Great for Picnics and Gifts
This store is perfect for putting together a picnic or picking up some regional products to take home as gifts. We enjoyed shopping here so much that we returned several times during our stay.
Location
Consorzio Agrario Siena is located at Via Giuseppe Pianigiani, 5.
Menchetti Bakery
Inside the Consorzio Agrario Siena, you’ll find Menchetti, a small bakery that makes fantastic breads, focaccia, pizza, and pastries.
Quick and Inexpensive Meals
Menchetti is an excellent choice for a quick and inexpensive meal, whether you eat inside or take your food to go for a picnic.
Regional Specialties
Be sure to try their versions of two regional confections:
- Panforte di Siena: a sweet, spicy, and very dense fruit and nut cake
- Ricciarelli: light and sweet almond cookies dusted with powdered sugar
Payment and Location
Keep in mind that items purchased from the Menchetti bakery are paid for at the bakery counter, while items from the deli and general store area are paid for at the checkout registers near the exit.
Menchetti is located inside the Consorzio Agrario Siena at Via Giuseppe Pianigiani, 5.
Where to Stay: Albergo Bernini
For a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Siena, we recommend Albergo Bernini. This hotel is located on the first floor of a 14th-century palace and is just a short walk from the main bus stop, points of interest, and our recommended restaurants.
Room Options and Prices
Albergo Bernini offers spacious and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices. We chose a double room with a shared bath for €65/night, but the hotel also has rooms with en suite baths for €85/night.
Hospitable Family-Run Hotel
The hotel is owned and operated by a welcoming family who lives on-site. They are extremely hospitable and make guests feel at home.
Terrace with Duomo Views
One of the highlights of staying at Albergo Bernini is the split-level terrace. The upper terrace is open and sunny, while the lower terrace is shaded. Both offer a great view of the Duomo di Siena, making it the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring the city.
Exploring the Culinary Scene in Siena
Siena’s dining scene has a lot to offer, from high-end restaurants to casual eateries and local markets. Here are some tips for making the most of your culinary experience in the city:
Venture Off the Beaten Path
Don’t be afraid to explore the side streets and alleys of Siena. Some of the best restaurants, like La Campane, are tucked away in less-touristy areas.
Try Regional Specialties
Siena is known for its delicious regional cuisine. Be sure to sample local dishes like pici pasta, panforte, and ricciarelli. These specialties offer a true taste of the city’s culinary heritage.
Enjoy a Picnic
With scenic spots like Piazza del Campo and the terrace at Albergo Bernini, Siena is the perfect place for a picnic. Pick up some fresh bread, cheese, and wine from Consorzio Agrario Siena or Menchetti Bakery and enjoy a casual meal al fresco.
Be Open to New Experiences
Siena’s dining scene offers a range of experiences, from the unique ambiance of Antica Osteria Da Divo to the modern vibe of Zest Wine Bar. Be open to trying new things and stepping out of your comfort zone – you might just discover a new favorite spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Siena?
Siena is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds, while summer brings warmer temperatures and more travelers. Winter can be cold, but it’s a great time to experience the city’s cozy restaurants and cafes.
How many days should I spend in Siena?
We recommend spending at least two to three days in Siena to fully experience the city’s culinary scene, historical sites, and local culture. However, if you’re short on time, it’s possible to see the highlights in a day trip from nearby cities like Florence.
Is Siena a walkable city?
Yes, Siena is a very walkable city. Most of the main attractions, restaurants, and hotels are located within the historic city center, which is easily navigable on foot. However, keep in mind that the city is built on a hill, so be prepared for some inclines and steps.
What is the local currency in Siena?
Like the rest of Italy, Siena uses the Euro (€) as its currency. ATMs are widely available throughout the city, and most restaurants and shops accept credit cards.
Do I need to speak Italian to visit Siena?
While it’s always helpful to know a few basic phrases in Italian, most people working in the tourism industry in Siena speak English. However, learning a few key words and phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture and making your trip more enjoyable.
Siena is a city that truly has it all – incredible history, stunning architecture, and a thriving culinary scene. By following these recommendations for where to eat and stay, you’ll be well on your way to experiencing the best that this Tuscan gem has to offer. Buon appetito!
