Piazza del Campo

"Piazza del Campo in Siena is considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world, don’t miss it. It has a peculiar 9-segment shell shape, a detail that can be admired to its fullest potential from the top of the Torre del Mangia tower (which you can visit daily 10am-4pm). Since 1300 it has been the center of life in Siena and has served as a market and gathering place for the Sienese during important political moments, parties and jousting, as still happens twice a year during the famous Palio horse race. The slight slope makes the shape of the Palazzo Pubblico with the Torre del Mangia even more impressive, while the whole square is surrounded by the beautiful and imposing facades of the noble palaces. At the top of the square is a copy of the 1400s Jacopo della Quercia "Fonte Gaia", the most beautiful of the Sienese water sources. The “ritual par excellence” requires you to sit on the ground to admire the piece of sky that opens above the square. Which is also a way to rest after all the ups and downs that the narrow streets of Siena require! A more comfortable idea is to grab a table at one of the cute cafés lining the square, and to enjoy the atmosphere while drinking a coffee or enjoying a quick bite. "

"Nice to visit at different times during the day: mornings for a light breakfast of cappuccino and croissant, afternoons for aperitivo hour with Aperol Spritz (free snacks, usually peanuts and chips), or dinner. Lovely views and people watching! "

"This is a gorgeous example of a medieval square - one of the best in all of Europe. It is right here that the twice-annual bareback Palio race is held. 💡 Tip: Step into the Palazzo Pubblico for a unique view of the tower."