Things You'll Need:
- Valid passport.
- Computer with internet access.
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Step 1
Hide away in Siena. It's own history largely kept it off the beaten path and has contributed to its insular feeling. Cultural influences have been felt in the city over time, but mostly came decades if not centuries after other cities.
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Step 2
Consider a tour through the Tuscan countryside while staying in Siena. The rolling hills are some of the most beautiful in all of Italy and have stops at local vineyards.
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Step 1
Travel by bus or train into Siena. There is no local international airport, but most likely travelers coming from abroad will touch down in Milan, Rome or Florence.
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Step 2
Walk the city streets. Fortunately or not, it is the only way to get around.
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Step 1
Book into the Grand Hotel Continental for the best of Siena. This recently refurbished palace has maintained its ancient ambience, including an authentic 15th-century fresco in one suite. Rooms look like small cathedrals and many overlook the Duomo. To book accommodations, contact the Terre di Siena at 011-39-(0) 57-7280551 or visit the Web site (see Resources below).
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Step 2
Stay just a few kilometers outside the city for some of the finest luxury accommodations in Siena. Often these will be converted villas and offer outstanding views of the town.
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Step 3
Sleep where monks once dwelled at the Hotel Certosa di Maggiano. Space is limited in this extraordinary 14th-century abbey just outside of Siena, but it is an experience of luxury accommodations like no other.
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Step 1
Start your day at the Piazza Del Campo. It is the city's main square and largely considered to be the best of its kind in all of Europe.
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Step 2
Visit the Duomo, Siena's main cathedral. It is one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in all of Italy and features a Gothic octagonal pulpit.
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Step 3
See the 'Palio.' This is a traditional horse race that takes place twice in summer -- once in July and once in August' and is the city's most famous event.
