We've read many posts about Day Trips to Siena from Florence - some say take the Bus, others say the Train. While we would LOVE to spend a few nights there, that isn't an option for us for this trip. Just wondering what you all recommend? Also, any NOT TO BE MISSED shops, restaurants, places to see. We will be going Mid-October.
And, do we need to get bus/train tickets in advance, or can we get them that morning we go there?
Thanks!!
The bus is more convenient. The bus station is around the corner from the Florence train station. You don't need to purchase tickets ahead of time. Just show up and buy them when you want to go.
You won't want to miss sitting on the Campo (piazza) with some gelato (shop is front/right when you're sitting downhill. Also, buy the Siena Duomo combo ticket to see the cathedral, baptistry & library.
We were there again last September and loved the agricultural shop across from the Statue of Bandini - the best, fresh pizza weighed by the slice! (You can see the pizza in the front window).
In case you don't know about the Palio, read about it ahead of time.
Bus.
The bus stops nearer the historical center, whereas the train station is much farther from the historical center and requires more uphill walking.
Click below to get an overview of top Siena sights:
http://www.ricksteves.com/europe/italy/siena
china,
As the others have mentioned, travel by Bus from Florence to Siena is more convenient, as passengers are dropped at Piazza Gramsci in the center of town, rather than the rail station which is at the bottom of the hill. The Corse Rapide (express) buses only take about an hour each way, so still very fast.
As mentioned, the Bus station is very close to Firenze SMN rail station. If you're going to be in Florence for a few days prior to your trip to Siena, I'd suggest buying your Bus tickets the day prior to travel, and then validating them prior to boarding the bus. No need to buy those in advance (IMO).
For "places to see" in Siena, some of the usual favourites are the beautiful Duomo and of course Piazza del Campo, where the Palio is held each year. Note that there's a dress code in the Duomo, so no bare shoulders or short pants! The guidebook has lots of information on other sights, as well as good restaurants, etc.
We took the bus, very easy.
Or hire a car and driver for the day, and tour the countryside as well
We rented a car and drove ourselves. The scenery on the way was spectacular!
But it would have been nearly impossible getting out of Florence if I didn't drive it like I stole it. The only time I got waved at & yelled at by other drivers was when I pulled to the side for an ambulance. They don't do that there. Don't rent a car.
