I have arrived at my final Italian city that I will be visiting on this discovery of Tuscany. Seeing this region of the country has been extraordinary and spending quality time here a blessing. I am not sad to see it come to an end though, instead I am excited to begin exploring another part of the world. For now, here are my first impressions of Siena Italy.
Large
This city is so much larger than I anticipated! Part of the reason seems to be that the new portion has grown as an extension of the old one. In the other cities most recently visited, the new part is down at the bottom of the hillside, on the flat terrain, leaving the old city compact and small.
Another reason is well; it was a much larger city to begin with. As a financial power house in Tuscany during the medieval period, it has that grandiose and scale to suite those needs. Larger palaces, piazzas and buildings in general give the city a more robust feel.
Busy
Streets seem much busier with vehicular traffic and tourists. Few are the cute little vespas and old fiats that I love. To replace them are noise dirt bikes that can handle the steep terrain.
Bus loads of tourists gather in the squares and popular sights, their leaders carrying around flags in an attempt to keep everyone together. There is definitely a bigger city feel as far as locals too, more people squished into this dense core.
Steep, Steep, Steep
These hills are not for the faint of heart. It so happens that my Airbnb is at the bottom of one so each morning, I am hoofing it up to the oldest parts and those enchanting streets. I was unaware of just how steep some of these streets are in Siena. I am definitely going to leave with stronger leg muscles, a bonus!
Lots of Youth
There is a university in this city I am certain of it. Without any research, I can tell and feel that just by seeing the large number of youths walking the streets. Its always exciting to be immersed with other generations, to stay current, listen to their viewpoints and admire their tenacity.
Expensive
This is hands down, my most expensive Airbnb in the months I have spent since Florence. And its not even a good one, freezing cold, the host controls the temperatures. Bare bones basic in an old renaissance building. The cost is considerably more than my other places and not nearly worth what I am paying. Alas, this is the current state of affairs even during the dead of off season that it is right now.
I am so excited to hit the ground running and explore Siena. I have seen photos of its iconic tower and main square. Curious am I to explore those old streets, get away from the tourists and see what I can find in this beautiful medieval city.
