Most people who visit Italy only see a few of the bigger cities like Rome and Florence. And these cities are absolutely worth seeing. But there’s more to Italy than overcrowded cities, there are also lots of smaller cities.
And often, they’re just as charming as the larger ones. Siena, often called the most beautiful city in Tuscany, is definitely on that list. So, if you’re ready for a trip with a difference, then it’s time to look at Siena places to stay.
Siena is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Italy. That means that your trip will be filled with historic buildings as well as amazing food. And the locals are the same friendly, welcoming people that the world has come to expect from Italy.
However, because this city isn’t on the usual tourist trail, you might struggle to work out where to stay. That could apply whether you’re visiting Siena for your first time, or even on a return trip. That’s why we’re here to help.
With our Siena neighborhood guide, you’ll be able to find accommodation that’s comfortable, convenient, and suits your budget and personality. And that will help ensure that you have the most rewarding trip possible to this incredibly beautiful city.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Siena.
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Best Airbnb in Siena: Oasi Verde in Centro Storico
If you want to be right in the center of the city for a good price, this is where to stay in Siena. Suitable for 4 guests, it’s just two minutes from the city square but located in a private garden where you will enjoy some peace and quiet. Breakfast is provided and there’s a private kitchen as well as security gates for your peace of mind.
Best Hotel in Siena: Borgo Grondaie
When you stay in a medieval town, you want an old-world atmosphere in your hotel as well, and that’s exactly what you’ll enjoy at this Siena accommodation option. Set in an 18th century building, this hotel offers history as well as all the modern conveniences.
It’s located close to shops, dining and clubs and offers a sun deck, coffee bar, and laundry facilities.
Best Hostel in Siena: Relais La Corte dei Cavalieri
No Siena neighborhood guide would be complete without this hostel. It’s located in a historical residence just downtown of the city center. The hostel is in an 18th century palace in neoclassical style with frescoed rooms and a truly amazing atmosphere.
There’s also a large private garden that’s surrounded by the city’s medieval walls, just to add a little more history and interest.
Relais La Corte dei Cavalieri is one of our favourites in Siena but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Torre
Whether you’re deciding where to stay in Siena for one night or for longer, Torre is a great choice. This area is named for the Torre del Mangia, a tower built in the 1300s that at the time was one of the tallest secular towers in Italy.
Lupa
The name of this district should make its symbol quite obvious. Lupa means wolf, and the symbol is a she-wolf nursing twins. This was also the symbol of Rome during its heyday.
Aquila
Aquila is within an easy walk from the center of the city and is another popular place for tourists and locals alike. The symbol of this area is a two-headed black eagle.
City Center
The City Center is one of the coolest places to stay in Siena. It’s close to all the best attractions and makes it easy for you to explore the city on foot.
Siena is divided into 17 contrade, which are districts or wards of the city. The contrade in Siena are probably the most famous in the world because of the twice-yearly horseback race, the Palio di Siena. Each contrade is named after an animal or symbol and has its own colors and images that represent it.
There are long histories behind the symbols attached to each area, which is why the winner of the horse race is so important. A representative from each contrade participates for the glory.
Torre is one of the first areas you should consider when you’re looking for the best places in Siena to stay. It’s close to the City Center and includes the Jewish Quarter, which makes just adds to the culture you’ll experience.
On the other hand, Lupa is a more local neighborhood. This makes it a little quieter, so it’s a good choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Siena with kids. If you don’t like the quiet and prefer a livelier atmosphere, try Aquila, where you’ll find lots of popular attractions right on your doorstep.
The next area is the City Center itself which is where you’ll find all the best attractions and restaurants. But despite its popularity with tourists, this part of the city still determinedly holds onto its culture and history, which is why you’ll love staying and exploring there. Italian backpackers will have a great time here!
And the final area is Onda, where you’ll find some of the best bars and trattorias in the city as well as a friendly, busy vibe that’s hard to resist.
Siena’s 5 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in
If you’re ready to book your Siena accommodation, then there’s where to start looking.
#1 Torre – Where to Stay in Siena First Time
Whether you’re deciding where to stay in Siena for one night or for longer, Torre is a great choice. This area is named for the Torre del Mangia, a tower built in the 1300s that at the time was one of the tallest secular towers in Italy. The symbol of this district is an elephant with the tower on its back.
Torre is the best neighborhood to stay in Siena for a lively vibe and easy access to the city’s Jewish quarter. It’s easy to find, as the tower looms over the entire neighborhood, and within an easy walk of the center of town. It’s also a good choice if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siena on a budget.
Best Airbnb in Torre: Apartment near the Tower
Located in Torre, one of Siena’s best neighborhoods for sightseeing, this apartment is near the famous tower for the ultimate in convenience. It can accommodate up to 4 people and is suitable for all different kinds of travelers. Located in a historic building, the apartment offers lovely views of Orto dei Pecci, a medieval garden.
Best Hotel in Torre: Al Mercato B&B
It’s located right in the heart of Torre, the best area in Siena to stay in, and close to shops, bars, and Piazza del Campo. The rooms have views of the tower and include free Wi-Fi and all the necessities you’ll need for your stay. There’s also a restaurant on site so that you can enjoy a delicious meal in the comfort of your own accommodation!
Best Hostel in Torre: Casa di Osio
Located in a newly restored, historic building, this is one of the best places in Siena to stay on a budget. It’s two minutes from the Piazza Del Campo and all the major attractions and sites in the city. The hostel is designed to feel like a home away from home, and this welcoming vibe is part of what makes it so attractive.
Casa di Osio is one of our favourites in Siena but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Torre
- Check out the monthly antiques market if you’re in the city at the right time.
- Explore Torre’s Jewish quarter, especially the 18th century Siena synagogue where you’ll find a museum to teach you about Jewish history in the city.
- Climb the Torre del Mangia to take in the amazing views across the city.
- Spend some time at the Logge del Papa, an open-air Renaissance arcade built to honor Pope Pius II.
- Eat, drink and shop at the Piazza del Mercato.
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Learn More Now!#2 Lupa – Where to Stay in Siena on a Budget
The name of this district should make its symbol quite obvious. Lupa means wolf, and the symbol is a she-wolf nursing twins. This was also the symbol of Rome during its heyday. Lupa is a mostly residential district, and the best neighborhood in Siena to stay in if you want to experience a more authentic, local vibe.
Lupa is also one of Siena’s best neighborhoods for a fun night out with friends as the streets are lined with casual bars and traditional trattorias. Via Banchi di Sopra is also a popular street amongst locals and tourists alike for its clothing boutiques.
So, if you want to experience Italian style, and maybe take a little home with you, this is where you should be shopping.
Best Airbnb in Lupa: Cool Designed Loft
This apartment is very close to Lupa, the best neighborhood to stay in Siena for a more local vibe. It’s surrounded by shops and trattorias on every side and offers free and fast Wi-Fi, and room for 3 guests. You’ll enjoy the convenience of 1.5 baths in this apartment as well as a large living area and fully equipped kitchen.
Best Hostel in Lupa: Albergo Tre Donzelle
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siena for nightlife, this hostel is a good choice. It has 20 elegant rooms in a range of sizes with private bathrooms and free Wi-Fi.
There are some lovely common spaces too, so you can get to know your new friends, and it’s so close to the center of the city that you can walk home after a long night trying Tuscan food. They also serve a delicious traditional breakfast every morning.
Best Hotel in Lupa: Hotel Minerva Siena
This hotel in Siena is in the heart of Lupa and offers a good base for your trip. There are 56 rooms available with private bathrooms and minibars as well as a bar downstairs so you can have a quiet drink at the end of the day. The rooms are clean and comfortable and offer beautiful views of the city.
Things to See and Do in Lupa
- Go shopping on Via Banchi di Sopra.
- Have a fun, friendly night out at one of the bars or go bar hopping until you find your favorite place!
- Go sightseeing in Piazza Salimbeni, the center of this area and surrounded by historic buildings.
- Make sure you see the Renaissance palaces Tantucci, and Spannocchi, located close to Piazza Salimbeni.
- If you enjoy palaces, then you’ll love 14th century Palazzo Salimbeni.
#3 Aquila – Best Area to Stay in Siena for Nightlife
Aquila is within an easy walk from the center of the city and is another popular place for tourists and locals alike. The symbol of this area is a two-headed black eagle.
This area has a livelier vibe than other parts of the city and is a great place to watch the Palio horse race.Whether you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siena for your first time or on a repeat trip, this is a great neighborhood to choose.
There are also lots of things to see in this district. In fact, it’s one of the best for sightseeing as many of the major sites are located in this area. And as always, there are lots of Tuscan trattorias selling traditional food, so make sure you eat as much as your stomach can hold!
Best Airbnb in Aquila: Appartamento Piazza del Campo Siena
This is a serviced apartment that can comfortably house up to 5 guests. The location is simply amazing, close to the center of town, and the terrace offers views of the Torre de Mangia and the Piazza del Campo.
There is a large bathroom and fully equipped kitchen included. This is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Siena with kids or with a group of friends.
Best Hotel in Aquila: B&B Siena in Centro
This hotel is Siena is positioned to make it the perfect base for your trip to this city. It’s surrounded by the Siena cathedral as well as bars, shops, and restaurants. The rooms offers a private bathroom, heating, a ceiling fan, and there’s a restaurant on-site so you can have an easy meal after a hard day exploring Siena.
Best Hostel in Aquila: Le Camerine di Silva
This is one of the best places to stay in Siena if you want to be close to Aquila. It’s only a few minutes’ walk from the center of the city and located in a lovely, private garden.
The rooms are double or twin and have traditional furnishings and private bathrooms. And the family members who own the hostel are friendly and will do whatever they can to make your stay memorable.
Le Camerine di Silva is one of our favourites in Siena but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Aquila
- Visit the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, one of Italy’s oldest private art museums.
- See the popular attraction Palazzo Patrizi.
- Marvel at the incredible Siena Cathedral and the Piccolomini Library.
- Look for local handicrafts you can take home as souvenirs.
- Eat in as many traditional Tuscan trattorias as possible!
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Buy an eSIM!#4 City Center – Coolest Place to Stay in Siena
The City Center is one of the coolest places to stay in Siena. It’s close to all the best attractions and makes it easy for you to explore the city on foot. This is also the most atmospheric part of the city as well, as it’s filled with historic buildings, local restaurants, and souvenir stores where you can find something awesome to take home with you.
If you’re visiting at the right time of year, this is also the best area in Siena to stay in if you want to witness the famous horse race. It can get pretty serious, so choose your side carefully and then just enjoy the competition and the excitement!
Best Hostel in City Center: Casa Di Antonella
This hostel in Siena has 7 bright, cheerful bedrooms, all of them with a lovely view of the city. There are also a range of room sizes available to suit every traveler. The rooms have a TV and fan and there are 2 shared bathrooms and 2 private. So basically, whatever type of traveler you are, this hostel will suit your style.
Best Airbnb in City Center: Residenza Rinuccini
Located right in the center of town, this apartment is ideal if you want to be in the middle of everything. It’s just behind the main road, located in a small side street that offers a quiet atmosphere, perfect for a good night’s sleep.
The apartment can accommodate up to 4 guests and is newly reconstructed to include everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay.
Residenza Rinuccini is one of our favourites in Siena but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in City Center: Piccolo Hotel Etruria
If you want easy access to sightseeing and shopping, then this is one of the best areas to stay in Siena. The recently refurbished rooms are comfortable and include air conditioning and a private shower. And there’s an outdoor terrace so you can sit and relax on sunny days and just enjoy the atmosphere of the city.
Piccolo Hotel Etruria is one of our favourites in Siena but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in City Center
- Spend some time in the famous Piazza del Campo, heart of the city and of all activity in it.
- Wander the streets looking for delicious trattorias where you can enjoy the local food.
- Keep an eye out for souvenir shops selling something to remind you of your trip.
- And if you’re there at the right time of year, don’t miss the Palio di Siena!
#5 Onda – Best Neighborhood in Siena for Families
Onda is a popular tourist district and filled with lively bars, souvenir shops, and trattorias. The symbol of this district is a dolphin with wavy white and light blue in the background.
This part of the city is a great choice when you’re deciding where to stay in Siena for one night as it’s close to everything and will provide lots of entertainment for a short trip.
Onda is also home to the Palazzo Pubblico, the city’s town hall. Construction started on this building in the 13th century and today it’s a popular tourist attraction for visitors who want to understand the city a little more.
But if you aren’t interested in this slice of Siena’s past, then you’ll still enjoy the bars, trattorias and souvenirs shops dotted throughout the district.
Best Airbnb in Onda: New Apartment
Located in Onda, one of the best areas to stay in Siena, this apartment is a great base. It’s suitable for up to 4 people and has a private entrance and free Wi-Fi.
Plus, it’s located within a short walk to the center of the city for easy, convenient sightseeing. As an added bonus, the furnishings are brand new and the apartment has everything you’ll need for your stay.
New Apartment is one of our favourites in Siena but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hostel in Onda: Bed & Breakfast Il Casato
If you’re trying to decide where to stay in Siena for families or on your own, this hostel could be the answer. It’s located right in the middle of the city and the rooms are painstakingly furnished for your comfort.
They include a private bathroom, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi and almost all the rooms look out on a lovely garden just to add to the atmosphere.
Bed & Breakfast Il Casato is one of our favourites in Siena but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in Onda: Residenza d’Epoca Il Casato
No Siena neighborhood guide would be complete without this property, located in Onda. It’s within easy reach of all the best sightseeing spots and offers a library, free Wi-Fi, and an outdoor terrace. The rooms have private bathrooms and breakfast is provided every morning so you can get started with your day!
Residenza d’Epoca Il Casato is one of our favourites in Siena but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to See and Do in Onda
- Start your explorations at the huge 13th century Palazzo Pubblico, seat of power in Siena.
- Go inside the building to the Civic Museum where you’ll see medieval frescos from famous artists.
- Eat traditional Tuscan dishes such as ribollita soup at the trattorias that are dotted through the district.
- Go bar hopping with a group of friends.
- Do some souvenir shopping.
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Siena
Here’s what people usually ask us about the areas of Siena and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts On Where to Stay in Siena
Siena is a small city, and that can make it easy to find the best Siena accommodation options. As long as you’re close to the city and all its attractions, you’ll enjoy convenient access to all the best sites and places to eat.
You’ll also be able to soak in the unique vibe of this lovely part of Italy. So, all you have to do is decide what type of accommodation you prefer. And then you can get started booking your trip!
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