Archive for 'Siena'

  

Monday, June 16, 2025
Picnic

Those who book a villa in Tuscany likely plan on venturing out into her famous countryside, to drive down winding, cypress-lined roads, to take in sweeping views over rolling green hills and valleys filled with a patchwork of fields and vineyards, to stumble upon sights like endless golden meadows of sunflowers, and to discover charming little villages and striking medieval towns that look like something from a storybook. As you drive around, maybe with particular destinations in mind and attractions on your itinerary or maybe simply for the joy of the activity itself, you’ll eventually work up an appetite. Of course, if you rent a vacation rental in Tuscany, you’ll discover that almost anywhere you go, great things can be found to eat and drink but if you are after a rather magical experience, then why not a dreamy picnic of delicious treats in a beyond picturesque setting, near the famous wine town of Montepulciano? 

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Posted in: Central Italy, Food and Wine, Localities, Pretty Views, Siena, Slow Food, Tourist Attractions, Tuscany

  

Tuesday, October 31, 2023
Siena, Piazza Salimbeni, Christmas
Photo credits: Guido Fineschi Sergardi / CC BY-SA 3.0

If you are a fan of Italian pastries and you were dreaming of a festive break in Tuscany, then we highly recommend browsing our villas in Siena. Not only is this charming and well-preserved historic gem exceptionally pretty at this time of the year with Christmas decorations, lights, and cheer in abundance, but it is also where many of the region’s most beloved festive treats were born. 


Siena is a perfect festive foodie option that is particularly well-known for her pastries made using recipes that have been passed down for generations upon generations. For those with a sweet tooth, it is the perfect destination this Christmas! So, if you have booked your vacation rental in Siena and are headed to the nearest bakery, these are some of the unmissable seasonal treats that you should try:

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Posted in: Christmas, Events, Food and Wine, Localities, Products & Specialities, Siena

  

Monday, June 13, 2022
Palio di Siena

The famous Palio di Siena is one of the biggest traditional events to take place in Italy each summer and is certainly one of the most exciting. For those who were looking for one more reason to find a luxury villa in Siena or a villa with pool in Tuscany, it is a pretty darn good one and definitely and once-in-a-lifetime experience to tick off your bucket list. Taking place over the course of two days in the summer, the Palio di Siena 2022 dates are the 2nd of July and the 16th of August.


But what is the Palio di Siena?


Maybe you have heard the name before, maybe you have not. Maybe you know what it is, maybe you do not. Never worry either way – we’re here to explain it all for you! In the simplest terms, the Palio di Siena is a traditional horse race that takes place right in the heart of the historic core of the medieval city of Siena, with representatives of the different 17 quarters of the city (though only 10 can actually enter the contest each race) competing to win and bring back the honour of the win to their neighbourhood.

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Posted in: August, Concerts & Festivals, Events, July, Localities, Siena

  

Tuesday, September 4, 2018
The Palio
While Siena is, arguably, one of the most stunning cities in Italy, it is also not that well-known to many international travellers, which is a crying shame. With lots to offer and a beautiful Gothic veneer, it is a perfect holiday destination and in this and the previous post, we are counting down ten great reasons to find yourself a villa rental in Siena and get exploring the city ASAP!

6. The Stunning Piccolomini Library

Another great architectural gem, this beauty is on the grounds of the cathedral and can be visited at the same time! Just turn left about halfway along the length of the cathedral's aisle and you'll discover the library, built by Pope Pius III (a member of the powerful local Piccolomini family) in memory of his uncle and to conserve the rich collection of manuscripts that he had lovingly collected. Said collection never really made it to the library and the series of frescoes by Pinturicchio and his workshop are now the real stars of the show. Truly stunning and awe-inspiring, this is a must-see space.     Read More
Posted in: Architectural Gems, Events, Food, Localities, Museums & Galleries, Siena, Top 10 Lists, Tourist Attractions

  

Monday, September 3, 2018
Centre of Siena
If you need convincing, here are ten great reasons to find a villa rental in Siena and to get planning a trip to the city as soon as possible...

1. The Historic Centre

Incredibly rich and interesting historic centres are not uncommon all around Tuscany. However, the UNESCO awarded historic centre of Siena is one of the best preserved and most beautiful among them all. A Gothic masterpiece that was created in competition with Florence, the city largely reflects the period between the 12th and 15th centuries today. The city had substantial influence on art, architecture and town planning during the Middle Ages, both in Italy and elsewhere in Europe and is a true gem.     Read More
Posted in: Churches & Religious Buildings, Food and Wine, Localities, Pretty Views, Siena, Top 10 Lists, Tourist Attractions, Unesco World Heritage Sites