Cesarine: Market Tour & Cooking Class at Local's Home in Siena

Siena , Italy

Cesarine: Market Tour & Cooking Class at Local's Home in Siena

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(5 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

Visit the vibrant local market and the traditional food shops with the Cesarina and immerse yourself in a cooking class at the Cesarina's home, learn the secrets of the most famous dishes of Sienese cuisine and taste the fruit of your labour accompanied by a glass of local wine.

During the lesson the Cesarina will reveal the tricks of the trade of 3 authentic Sienese recipes. Have fun putting your cooking skills to the test. Each participant will have a workstation equipped with utensils and all the ingredients to make the dishes. Then, taste everything you have prepared accompanied by a selection of red and white local wines.

Cesarine is Italy’s oldest network of 1000+ home cooks all over the country in more than 120 cities. They are passionate and welcoming hosts that open the doors of their own homes to curious travellers for immersive culinary experiences.

Available options

Morning experience

What's included

Beverages (water, wines and coffee)

Guided market tour

Small group cooking class

Small group 3-course dinner or 3-course lunch

Local taxes

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

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2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Meeting point

This experience will be held in one of our Cesarina homes and, for privacy reason, you will receive the full address of your Cesarina host after you have booked. We will contact you after you've booked to match you up with your ideal Cesarina based on what you are looking for.

Important notes

To craft your perfect food experience please remember to share your email address with us. Our culinary guides will send you a short form to express your preferences.
Once completed you will receive all the host details via email.
In case we do not receive your email shortly we will match you with a local host, based on the preference expressed at the time of booking

About Siena

Siena is a medieval city in Tuscany, Italy, renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and the famous Palio horse race. The city's well-preserved historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into Italy's medieval past with its cobblestone streets, towering churches, and grand piazzas.

Top Attractions

Piazza del Campo

Piazza del Campo is the heart of Siena and the site of the famous Palio horse race. This stunning, shell-shaped square is surrounded by historic buildings and is a must-visit for its architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena)

The Siena Cathedral is a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, featuring stunning marble facades, intricate mosaics, and beautiful frescoes. The cathedral's interior is equally impressive, with a richly decorated nave and a magnificent marble floor.

Religious 1-2 hours €8-12

Basilica of San Domenico

The Basilica of San Domenico is one of the largest churches in Siena and houses the relics of St. Catherine of Siena. The church's interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes, sculptures, and a magnificent choir.

Religious 1 hour Free (donations appreciated)

Palazzo Pubblico

The Palazzo Pubblico is a historic palace that houses the Museo Civico, which showcases a collection of medieval and Renaissance art. The palace's courtyard and tower offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Historical 1-2 hours €9-12

Santa Maria della Scala

Santa Maria della Scala is a historic hospital and museum complex that showcases the city's rich history and art. The complex features beautiful frescoes, sculptures, and a labyrinthine network of underground passages.

Historical 1-2 hours €7-10

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pici all'Aglione

A traditional Tuscan pasta dish made with hand-rolled pici pasta and a garlic and tomato sauce.

Main course Vegetarian

Ribollita

A hearty bread and vegetable soup, often made with cannellini beans, kale, and carrots.

Soup Vegetarian

Panforte

A traditional Siena dessert made with dried fruits, nuts, and spices, often enjoyed during the Christmas season.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains nuts

Peposo

A traditional Tuscan beef stew, slow-cooked with wine, garlic, and spices.

Main course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Tuscan countryside Cycling tours Wine tasting tours Visiting hot springs Enjoying local cuisine Exploring historic sites Visiting museums Attending the Palio horse race

Best Time to Visit

June to August, July 2 (Palio di Provenzano), August 16 (Palio di Assunta)

The peak season in Siena is during the summer months, especially around the Palio horse races. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

22°C to 34°C 72°F to 93°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Italian
Widely spoken: English, French, Spanish
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Siena is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, pickpocketing and petty theft can occur in crowded areas, so it's important to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps

Getting there

By air

Florence Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Pisa International Airport • 120 km (75 miles)

By train

Siena Station

By bus

Siena Piazza Gramsci, Siena Piazza del Duomo

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Siena is efficient and covers most parts of the city and nearby towns. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for those staying outside the city center.

Taxis

Available • Apps: MyTaxi, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

San Martino San Domenico Santa Maria della Scala

Day trips

Chianti Wine Region

20-40 km (12-25 miles) • Half day to full day

The Chianti region is famous for its vineyards, rolling hills, and picturesque villages. It's a perfect day trip for wine enthusiasts and those looking to explore the Tuscan countryside.

San Gimignano

35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

San Gimignano is a medieval hilltop town known for its towering houses and stunning views of the Tuscan countryside. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for history buffs.

Val d'Orcia

60-80 km (37-50 miles) • Full day

Val d'Orcia is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning landscapes, hot springs, and picturesque villages. It's a perfect day trip for nature lovers and those looking to relax in a beautiful setting.

Festivals

Palio di Siena • July 2 and August 16 Siena Jazz Master Classes • July Siena International Film Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the historic sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Try local specialties like pici pasta, ribollita, and panforte
Explore the city's hidden gems, such as underground passages and historic streets
Attend the Palio horse race for a unique cultural experience
Take a day trip to the Chianti wine region for wine tasting and scenic landscapes