The view of the Duomo di Siena that can be seen from Via Camporegio.

Having been studying in Siena, Italy for not quite two weeks, I am certainly no expert on the local area. That being said, even after a few hours in this city, it is easy to tell that it is a place full of magical views; of the city, of the countryside, of the history of this region. Whether you’re here for a day or for a year, here are some of the most spectacular views of Siena and of Tuscany that I have found in this city so far:

The view of the Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico from my host family’s home on Via Franciosa.

One of the greatest spots in Siena to look at the beauty of this historical city is on Via Camporegio next to the Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico. From multiple locations on this street, you have the ability to view one of the main hills that helps to compose the city of Siena. Looking in this direction, you can see not only the beautiful local houses, but also the historical Torre del Mangia, as well as the Duomo di Siena. This is a great spot to take photos, or to just take in the beauty of this city. There are also many great opportunities to find views facing the opposite direction – towards the Basilica and away from the Duomo – as well! If you search around a little on Via Franciosa, Via Vallepiatta, or Vicolo Vallepiatta, you might be able to catch some amazing looks at the Basilica Cateriniana San Domenico, as well as the surrounding hillside. I have the absolute privilege to be staying with a host family on Via Franciosa, and the views from their home are spectacular.

The view of Piazza del Campo from the deck of Bar San Pietro.

If you want good food to accompany your amazing view, another great place to go is the Bar San Pietro right off of the Piazza del Campo. This restaurant has some elevated deck seating that faces the Piazza, and if you can find an open seat in this amazing location, you will have a spectacular view of the entire historical Piazza del Campo, as well as the Torre del Mangia and the Palazzo Pubblico. No better place for a snack!

The view of Piazza del Campo and the Torre del Mangia from the top of the Facciatione.

And finally, perhaps one of the most phenomenal places from which to see Siena and Tuscany is from the top of the Facciatone of the Duomo di Siena. While this spot requires an admission ticket into the Duomo’s OPA Museo, as well as quite a lot of stair-climbing, this is one of the highest locations in the city and the accompanying vista is well worth climbing any number of stairs. This spot offers panoramic views of multiple historical sites, including the Duomo di Siena, the Torre del Mangia, the Piazza del Campo, the ancient city walls of Siena, and countless beautiful churches and buildings set against the backdrop of the magnificent Tuscan countryside. Absolutely breathtaking.

The view of Siena homes and the beautiful Tuscan countryside form the top of the Facciatone.

Because of the astounding beauty of this city so rich in history and culture, wherever you go in Siena there will be spectacular views and vistas awaiting you. That being said, these are some of my favorite spots to enjoy that beauty. Happy viewing!

The view of the Duomo di Siena from the top of the accompanying Facciatone.

Sarah is a fall 2019 Siena student from Western Washington University.