Siena is splendidly medieval, but where you stay can dramatically change your experience of it. Choose the wrong spot, and you might find yourself stuck in a tourist trap with overpriced gelato. Pick wisely, and you'll discover Siena's true heart—a city that is more than just the Palio and the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo.

## Where to stay

**Sant'Agostino's local vibe.** Avoid the high-season crowd crush of the Campo by staying in Sant'Agostino. Here, you'll find a local atmosphere and a chance to mingle with Sienese people. Nestled around the eponymous basilica, this area offers charming streets, like Via di San Pietro, that wind past delis and artisan workshops. It's a short walk to the Campo but feels worlds away.

**Via Camollia for convenience.** This lesser-known area is perfect if you want easy access to both the historic centre and the train station. Via Camollia is peppered with intimate cafés and local pizzerias that won't empty your pockets. It's bustling but not overrun, and from here, a stroll to the main sights is a pleasant journey through authentic Sienese life.

**San Martino's understated charm.** Avoid the throngs and head south of the Campo into San Martino. Here, the narrow streets hide delightful surprises like the Museo della Tortura and the charming Via di Pantaneto, with its bohemian bars and small trattorias. It's an area where you can truly appreciate Siena's medieval ambiance without the tourist price tag.

## When to go

Consider visiting during April, May, or October when the weather is mild and the city isn't swarming with Palio crowds. Avoid the peak summer months when Siena can be oppressively hot and teeming with tourists.

Get ready to wander through Siena's enchanting streets and remember, your concierge or host will have the best tips for cafés and local haunts—ask them! They know the hidden gems better than any guidebook ever could.