Siena is a medieval city that feels like a journey back in time, with its preserved Gothic architecture and winding, narrow streets. Known for the Palio di Siena, a historic horse race held twice a year in the city’s main square, Piazza del Campo, Siena is a city that bursts with local pride and tradition. The square itself is a marvel, shell-shaped and lined with beautiful, centuries-old buildings.
The Siena Cathedral, or Duomo di Siena, is another must-visit site. It boasts a unique black-and-white striped facade and an intricately decorated interior. From the church’s mosaics to its stunning frescoes, the Siena Cathedral offers visitors a chance to experience some of Tuscany’s most remarkable religious art.
Check out ten of the world’s best castle hotels, from Rapunzel’s Tower in South Africa to a former getaway of Czech aristocrats, that are filled with royal charm.