Discover Siena: Food Tasting Tour with Local Expert

Siena , Italy

Discover Siena: Food Tasting Tour with Local Expert

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About this experience

Discover Siena from a gastronomic point of view in this food and wine-tasting tour through Siena's scenic historical center!

Accompanied by a local expert, you'll discover the gastronomic traditions of the city and uncover Siena's secrets and curiosities. Walking though the world-famous alleyways of the beautiful historical center, your guide will introduce you to five renowned restaurant stops where you'll taste local delicacies, like Pici and Ricciarelli.

You will have the chance to experience a unique and authentic food tour with a local host, hand-selected by Eatwith, the world’s largest community for authentic culinary experiences. If you're looking to experience the regional flavors of Siena's food and wine, then this tour is a must to add to your itinerary.

Available options

Discover Siena: Food Tasting Tour with Local Expert

What's included

Meet other people from around the world

Coffee and Water

Small group tour with a personal local guide

Insider tips and recommendations from your local host

Experience first-hand local culture and cuisine

Glass of red wine

Regional charcuterie and cheeses, Pici Senesi with optional cacio e pepe, Pappa Senese, Ribollita, Tonno del Chianti, and Ricciarelli

Detailed itinerary

The meeting point will be in Palazzo Salimbeni, in front of Statue of Sallustio Bandini.

It is the city's symbolic square where the Sienese love to gather and spend time. Nearby we'll try in a local bar/tavern the best charcuterie and cheeses from the area accompanied by a good glass of local wine.

Near this historic gallery housing vast collection of Sienese masterpieces from the late medieval to Renaissance era, we'll enjoy a traditional plate of pici in a traditional restaurant. Pici senesi pasta is made in a way that respects ancient processes, such as bronze wire-drawing. You can taste them seasoned with cacio e pepe or with wine.

In front one of the most characteristic places in Siena, we'll enjoy traditional dishes of the Tuscan and Sienese cuisine: Ribollita or Pappa Senese in a truly tuscan tavern.

Ribollita is a traditional regional soup made of bread and vegetables, a local favorite.

As for Pappa Senese, this dish's recipe has been handed down from generation to generation. With a small but essential detail that differentiates it from the traditional Tuscan pappa al pomodoro.

Bisecting the city from south to north following the course of its palaces, it is the street that encapsulates Siena's excellence, Via de Città. Along it are historic cafés, important places, and decadent shops of all kinds. Nearby, we'll try the dessert typical of Siena in a patisserie, the ricciarelli.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

⚠️THE FULL ADDRESS WILL BE ON YOUR CONFIRMATION VOUCHER UNDER THE "BEFORE YOU GO" SECTION.

Guests need to communicate if they have any food restrictions (allergy, special diet, etc.)

Meeting point

Palazzo Salimbeni: Statue of Sallustio Bandini

Important notes

Host name: Daniele

Host phone number: +393291790647

Address: Piazza Salimbeni, 1, 53100 Siena SI, Italy

Additional Info: Palazzo Salimbeni: Statue of Sallustio Bandini

Please contact your host by phone call or WhatsApp to confirm and/or ask any questions about the event.

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