Siena...suggestions for a solo traveler

Lisa, in 2013 I stayed at Albergo Bernini, which is a B & B in the middle of Siena, about mid-way between the Campo and its sites, and the Duomo complex (a short walk, about 0.2 miles from each). It is a very old, but updated, residence, now divided into rooms, some with private bathroom, others with shared bath. Daniela and her family are excellent and knowledgeable hosts. They serve a nice breakfast, and a highlight is their outside terrace, where you can have breakfast or sit for late evening wine or snack. The view is wonderful, but it is over the town of Siena, not really the countryside. Very affordable, and highly rated on booking.com and at least at the time by the RS books. You may already know that if you arrive in Siena by bus, you arrive in town, and can walk into the center (and this inn) in a few minutes. If you arrive by train, you are outside of town and may need to take transport into town.

It would enhance your trip to learn some basic Italian, but you'll still be fine without.

I've done Siena several times as a solo traveller. The medieval city is fun to wander around and honestly I found it comfortable and felt very safe. People are friendly and glad to help even with limited English. Obviously the churches and the museums by the Duomo need to be on your list - they are really quite special (and I don't particularly like museums). Sit on the Campo for a drink but skip the food - over priced and not very good. RS has some very good suggestions for restaurants. Walk behind the tower at the Campo - a neat neighborhood and great views. Sorry, can't recommend a hotel, I staid at an apartment. The city really is beautiful, enjoy!!!!

Lisa,

To begin with, you shouldn't have any trouble with language as most of the people you'll be dealing with will be able to function in English to some extent. However it's always a good idea to learn the usual polite words such as "please, thankyou" etc. (and of course, "where's the bathroom").

It's been a few years since I've stayed there, but I'd also recommend Albergo Bernini. It's a great location and I found the owners to be wonderful hosts. It will likely be a bit "chilly" in March so having breakfast on the terrace may not be too comfortable.

For travel from Florence to Siena, the best method is to use the Bus rather than the train. The bus will drop you right in Piazza Gramsci which is right in town, as opposed to the rail station which is at the bottom of the hill. I vaguely recall that Albergo Bernini is within walking distance from the bus station.

In terms of what to do in Siena, I'd suggest heading for your nearest Library and having a look at the RS Italy guidebook, as that has lots of great information on not only hotels but also restaurants, sightseeing, etc. Two nights in Siena will only provide one full day of touring, so I don't imagine you're going to have a lot of time to explore.

Siena is not flat like Florence, so you don't walk Siena, you climb Siena, it's made up of a lot of roller coaster hills, up and down type, one after the other, big ones too. As opposed to towns that mount upwards on big hills. Well Siena does that too, and adds a lotta those roller coaster hills for greater fun and enjoyment! It's just so exquisitely beautiful too.

In October, 2016 we spent five nights at the four star Hotel Athena, located a short walk from Piazza del Campo and with many good restaurants nearby. Our room was spacious, clean, and the staff was first-rate. I speak Italian, but my wife does not, but the staff spoke English or some form of it. They provide free parking in the back of the property.

We will stay there again when we return.

Buon viaggio,

Lisa,

I recently enjoyed my stay at the Antica Residenza Cicogna B&B in the heart of Siena’s historic center. You won’t be able to see the countryside from this B&B but you’ll be close to some of the main sites such as the Duomo, Santa Maria della Scala Museum, St. Catherine’s Sanctuary and Piazza del Campo.

Since you’ve already planned to take a day trip while staying in Siena, I’d suggest spending at least three nights there in order to have at least one full day to experience this beautiful city.

You may be interested in reading my trip report on Siena for more information.

Enjoy your trip!

I have stayed at the Hotel Alma Domus several times. It's well-located with AMAZING views over the city. Click on the link I embedded to see the views!

We have stayed at two hotels within the walls that each had fabulous views out over the countryside. The Palazzo Ravizza is a renovated old palazzo and the views are wonderful. The Athena nearby is a more modern less expensive hotel; the views from high floors over the countryside are wonderful. Both are an easy walk to the Campo i.e. within the walls. Siena has many wonderful sights within the walls -- great for a single traveler.

I've always stayed outside the walls with a car so I'm no help since I'd recommend staying near the center. Aside from the Duomo (which is one of the most amazing churches I've seen) I highly recommend a wine class with Sofia at the Tuscan Wine School. It will give a lot of background to help you understand Italian wine and make your tastings more enjoyable, plus it's a lot of fun.

Hotel Athena is one of the few hotels that has on site guest parking and it is right next to the Laterina Gate. All of the staff, we encountered, spoke perfect English.

A big thank you to everyone for your advice! I feel more relaxed about by trip and am so looking forward to my time in Siena!
Lisa