One of my favourite James Bond opening sequences is the chase scene in Quantum Of Solace in the town of Siena. Fans of the movie will especially remember the horse race taking place around the Piazza del Campo
Siena is an easy day trip from Florence which can also include visits to the area’s wine-growing regions and other historic towns like San Gimignano. Siena though will be the obvious highlight of the trip being declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. It is one of the Italy’s most visited tourist attractions. If you are visiting Florence, Siena is a must see. If this around July / August you could try and coincide the visit with the Palio di Siena – the traditional medieval horse race run around the Piazza del Campo (although it will be insanely crowded). However we were there on a relatively quiet, beautiful sunny day in December. You can’t beat a beautiful day in autumn.
The other major attraction is the Gothic Siena Cathedral completed in 1380. Geoffrey and I are the first to admit that we have little appreciation of the countless European Cathedrals we have obligatory entered. However in the relatively small town of Siena, this Cathedral is an obvious standout and we actually spent some time inside – especially admiring the marble mosaic floors.
For the most part though we just enjoyed the sunny day and getting lost wandering the narrow streets and alley ways. It’s a great way to relax – just exploring on your own, being your own guide getting a basic feel of the town in the short time you have available. You turn a corner and come across all sorts of surprises.
Simply delightful!
If you would like more information about this destination please contact me.
