Siena
One of Italy's finest medieval cities, Siena is a major tourist attraction as well as home to one of the oldest Universities in Europe, contributing to a vibrant student culture and a bustling city atmosphere. Recognized for its period architecture, much of this city's well-preserved Gothic buildings originate from the tail end of the Middle Ages, the era in which Siena reached its economic peak. Indeed, this magnificent architecture should be foremost on your itinerary. Second on your list should be a visit to the Piazza del Campo, celebrated for its large, fan-shaped piazza. Siena also offers many cultural activities, such as classical concerts, theater, the Siena Jazz Festival, and the famous Il Palio di Siena, a festival and horse race run in the Piazza del Campo. And when you are eager to shop, the stores of Siena offer many local items, such as leather products, fabric, glazed terracotta, jewelry, and regional food and wine, along with a regular farmer's market each Wednesday in the Fortezza Mediceana.
Located in the center of Tuscany, the countryside of Siena paints a lovely contrast to this otherwise commanding city.Twining vineyards and gnarled olive vines course through the Chianti area between Florence and Siena.To the south, the Arbia valley leads you to the town of Montalcino, home to the prominent Brunello wine. Most notable is the area around La Crete, which boasts rock formations adjacent to low, rolling hills, with a grain field that sits below a medieval fortress. You are sure to be drawn to this blend of artful beauty and historic elegance.