Hello, We will be staying in Siena Tuscany just outside of the city center @ Hotel Santa Caterina. Does anyone know if this is a walkable location to the bus/train station? We will need to catch an 8:00am train in Florence on our departure day so need to leave Siena by 6:00 am. Is walking a viable option?
Posted by
Twin Cities of MN
6586 posts
It is not walkable to the Siena train station since the train station is down the hill that Siena sits on. Buses pick up, on the hill, just outside city center, close to the soccer stadium, I believe at Piazza Matteotti. A bus is a better bet, I believe the time is about the same, but still I think your connection is tight. If you'd like to take the train from Siena, you should just take a cab from Hotel Santa Caterina.
Posted by
Idaho, USA
7879 posts
Laura, I would contact your lodging and ask them if you could book an early taxi. In other words, make sure one will be running that early.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Thank you! I will check with the hotel. Might be better to stay closer to the train/bus station. Any hotel or apartment recommendations?
Posted by
Los Angeles
1202 posts
If you look at a map, you will see that the hotel is on the opposite side of the city center from the train station - so not a good option unless by cab.
Same basic case for the bus station, which isn't quite as far, but still approx. 25 minute walk, according to Google Maps.
At that hour, being closer to train or bus won't make much difference, as it's the transit time to Florence that is the main factor.
Posted by
Twin Cities of MN
6586 posts
Just to be clear, while Florence's bus station is right next to the train station, Siena's is not. Train is below Siena's hill and Bus is on top.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Thank you all for your help. I was under the impression that there was a direct bus to departing Siena to Florence at 6:00am but it seems the logistics to get to the bus station could be an issue. Where would be the best site to get the most up to date bus schedules?
Posted by
Los Angeles
1202 posts
Link to schedule [PDF plus trip planner] for 131R bus - not that easy to read:
https://www.at-bus.it/en/linee-e-orari/regionali-131r
You might also try using Directions in Google Maps.
Posted by
Florida, USA
250 posts
The first bus departs Siena Via Tozzi at 6:15 am arriving in Florence at 7:30. Buy your tickets the day before if you are taking this bus. If you have your tickets for your departing train in Florence you should be able to make it on time, although, a bit rushed. There is a train departing Siena at 5:43 am arriving at Firenze SN station at 7:23. That might be the better option. With either choice you should take a taxi from your hotel it would be a long walk with luggage.
Posted by
OP
9 posts
Honestly RS forum is the best for travel advice and tips. Thank you all!