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Florence or Siena for a first-timer on a Monday?

Posted by (Federal Way, U.S.) on

Hi all! We are visiting Europe for the first time in early September, spanning France, Switzerland, and Italy. We're planning to drive from Luzern, Switzerland to Rome, stopping in either Florence or Siena for a night and the following day. This day along the way happens to fall on a Monday, and I know all the major museums are closed then. I've wanted to visit Florence for a long time now (I love art and history), but is it still worth it to walk around for the day (and stay the night), or should we go for Siena, which I heard is more "charming"?

Thanks!

Posted by
182 posts

what a drag to have the one day be monday. with a car do both. stop in florence hang out until the early afternoon. take off to siena, check into your hotel, have a great dinner in a really cool town with food that rivals florence. then head to rome in the morning. with that said. i still think my most favorite days in europe were in florence. you could save siena for the next trip. have fun, be safe. i grew up in federal way, a 1978 alum of thomas jefferson. go raiders!

Posted by
15791 posts

You will have an excellent day in either.

What's open (and recommended) in Florence on Mondays:

The Baptistry (til 7)

The Bell Tower of the Duomo and the Duomo itself

San Lorenzo and the Medici Chapel (by Michelangelo - wonderful)

The Bargello - great sculpture collection

The Museum of the Duomo - has an excellent collection.

Posted by
4 posts

Thanks Jeff and Chani! I think I will indulge my long-held wish and visit Florence :) and if it's not enough, I will see if I can study abroad there!

Posted by
15791 posts

Tonya,

It's never enough. And when you go back, you'll have time to explore Siena too!

Have a great trip.

Posted by
25 posts

We were in Florence on a Sunday and Monday. On Monday, we went to San Marco (the Fra Angelicos are amazing - if you love art, PLEASE go there!), and hiked to San Miniato al Monte. San Miniato is across the river and up hill . . . fabulous view of Florence.

We also visited the Duomo and Baptistry. I vote for Florence!

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