Trains from Siena to Venice

Looking for a captivating train adventure through the heart of Italy? Hop on board and embark on a mesmerizing journey from the medieval city of Siena to the romantic Venice, a route filled with picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures.

Shortest Duration and Essential Stops: The quickest way to travel from Siena to Venice is by taking a direct train. Though the duration may vary depending on the service, it typically takes around 3 hours and 30 minutes. Departing from Siena's main railway station, you'll arrive at Santa Lucia station, the main gateway to Venice.

Enchanting Cities along the Way: As you traverse the Italian countryside, you'll pass through several notable cities and towns. One of the first stops is Chiusi, known for its remarkable underground labyrinth and fascinating Etruscan history. Next up is Arezzo, a charming town adorned with Renaissance-era architecture and captivating art. The journey continues through the splendid city of Florence, renowned for its historic center, Florence Cathedral, and iconic Ponte Vecchio. Make sure to catch a glimpse of the graceful Duomo, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

Highlights of Departure and Arrival: Siena, the starting point of this adventure, embraces visitors with its medieval charm. Take a stroll through the narrow streets, visit the majestic Siena Cathedral, and indulge in the delicious Tuscan cuisine before hopping on the train.

Venice, the final destination, captivates travelers with its romantic ambiance and unique charm. From the moment you step off the train, you'll be greeted by the enthralling sight of gondolas gliding along picturesque canals. Don't miss the opportunity to visit St. Mark's Square, explore the winding streets of the city, and traverse the iconic Rialto Bridge.

In Summary: Experience the magic of Italy by embarking on a train journey from Siena to Venice. Marvel at the breathtaking scenery, immerse yourself in the rich culture of Florence, and savor the timeless beauty of Siena and Venice. This enchanting adventure promises unforgettable memories at every stop. So, unleash your wanderlust and let the train transport you to the heart of Italy's wonders.

Siena, in Italy, is an enchanting city that has captured the hearts of many travelers over the centuries. Rich in history and home to some of the most stunning architectural wonders the world has ever seen, Siena is an excellent destination for anyone seeking an immersive cultural experience or simply a chance to explore the unique beauty of the Tuscan landscape. 

Piazza del Campo: Located in the heart of Siena's historic center, Piazza del Campo is the site of the famous 'Palio di Siena' horse race, and is one of the city's main tourist attractions. Its unique fan-shaped layout makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to soak up the local atmosphere, with numerous cafes, restaurants and souvenir shops lining the perimeter. For the best view of the piazza, head to the Torre del Mangia, the imposing 102-meter tower that stands in the center. Entry costs €7 and opening hours run from 9am to 7pm, April to October, and 9am to 5pm, November to March.

Duomo di Siena: The Duomo di Siena is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. Located in the Piazza del Duomo, it is a magnificent example of Italian Gothic architecture, recognizable for its terracotta-tiled dome and intricate marble ornamentation. Entrance to the cathedral and the museum is free for children under 10 years of age, and €7 for adults from Monday - Saturday, 10am - 7pm. If you have the chance, don't miss the opportunity to explore the crypt and the 'Libreria Piccolomini', where you can admire a stunning fifteen-meter altarpiece, painted by Pinturicchio in 1502. 

Torre del Mangia: The 102-meter Torre del Mangia is a symbol of Siena, and boasts some of the best views of the city from its observation deck at the top. To reach the observation deck, you will have to climb 400 steps, but the effort is worth it. Take your time to admire the majestic Fonte Gaia fountain or the impressive ceramic clock tower, both located in the Piazza del Campo, from above. Entrance to the tower is €7 and opening times are from 9am to 7pm, April to October, and 9am to 5pm, November to March.

Santa Maria della Scala: Located in the very center of Siena, Santa Maria della Scala was one of the largest hospitals in medieval Europe, and now houses a museum and several art galleries. Wander through the old wards and nurses' quarters, admire the impressive frescoes and explore one of the largest archaeological collections in the region. Entrance costs €7.50, and opening times are from 10am to 6.30pm, April to October, and 10am to 5.30pm, November to March.

Brancacci Chapel: Located inside the Church of Santa Maria del Carmine, the Brancacci Chapel is a breathtaking example of Italian Renaissance art, with its walls adorned by a series of frescoes painted by Masaccio, Masolino and Filippino Lippi between 1424 and 1427. Don't miss the chance to admire this masterpiece up close, and spend a few minutes in the peaceful atmosphere of the church. Entrance costs €7, and opening times are from 10am to 7pm, April to October, and 10am to 5pm, November to March.

Enoteca Italiana: No visit to Siena would be complete without visiting the Enoteca Italiana, the largest wine museum in the country. Here, visitors can sample over 3,000 Italian wines, learn about the history and culture of the region and pick up a few bottles to take home. Take a guided tour for an immersive experience and to gain an insight into the production process and the wide variety of local wines. Opening times are from 9am to 7pm, April to October, and 9am to 5pm, November to March.

Gastronomy: Siena is not only a city of monuments and art, but also the perfect destination for a culinary adventure. From the delicious pecorino cheese to the renowned Chianina beef, the traditional cuisine of the region is a must-try for any food lover. Don't forget to try the typical 'panforte' cake or the 'pici' pasta, and wash it all down with the local 'vin santo' dessert wine.

A trip to Siena will give you an unforgettable experience, and one that will linger in your memory long after you have left. With its rich history, stunning architecture and unique cultural heritage, it's no wonder the city has been a favorite destination of travelers for centuries. Whether you plan to stay for a few days or a few weeks, you won't regret taking the time to explore the best of what Siena has to offer.

Venice is a beautiful and captivating city, located in Italy adrift in its own lagoon. It is almost like a fairytale, with old churches, ancient bridges, picturesque canals, and narrow alleyways that all beg to be explored. If you’re planning a trip to Venice, here is a list of must-visit historical and architectural sites, as well as a few suggestions of what to eat: 

The Rialto Bridge (Ponte di Rialto): This iconic bridge crossing the Grand Canal is the oldest and one of the most popular in Venice. With its impressive architecture and picturesque surroundings, it is a great place to snap some photos or simply soak in the views. Location: Rialto, Venice; Hours: Open 24/7; Fees: Free; Insider Tip: Visit at sunset to witness the stunning colors of Venice in the evening sky.

St Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco): This Venetian-Byzantine church is one of the most incredible examples of religious architecture in the world. The grand and ornate interior gives insight into the city’s rich and powerful history. Location: St Mark’s Square, Venice; Hours: 9 am to 5 pm (Mon-Sat); Fees: €3; Insider Tip: Check out the basilica in the evening, when it is lit up and even more magical.

St Mark’s Campanile (Campanile di San Marco): This famous bell tower is a popular landmark in Venice, offering wonderful views of the city from the top. Location: St Mark’s Square, Venice; Hours: 9 am to 9 pm (Mon-Sat); Fees: €8; Insider Tip: Purchase tickets online to avoid long queues.

Ducal Palace (Palazzo Ducale): Home to the Doges of Venice, this impressive Gothic-style palace is a must-visit spot. Inside, admire the ornate masterpieces of Venetian art, take a walk through the secret passageways, and explore the incredible art collection. Location: St Mark’s Square, Venice; Hours: 9 am to 7 pm (Mon-Sat); Fees: €30; Insider Tip: Early morning visits are best to avoid the crowds.

Food to Try: Venetian cuisine is amazing. Try some traditional dishes, such as polenta con schie (small shrimp), risi e bisi (rice and peas), and baccalà alla vicentina (salt cod). Don’t forget to grab a couple of pizzettas or some delicious gelato!

In conclusion, a trip to Venice is like a dream come true, as it is home to so many incredible historical and architectural sights. Whether you’re exploring the city’s secrets or indulging in traditional Venetian cuisine, it is sure to be an unforgettable journey.