As Strade Bianche approaches this weekend, cycling fans turn their attention towards Siena, Italy. But while cyclists know this city for the race’s majestic finish in the Piazza del Campo, Strade Bianche is really only a small chapter in the long and storied history of this city tucked away in the heart of Tuscany.
In many ways Siena has seemingly changed little since its days as one of the capitals of the Italian Renaissance, and from its pristine Duomo to its labyrinth of narrow, winding streets, it is nothing less than a jewel of a city. If you ever find yourself in Tuscany for the Strade Bianche weekend, make sure you book a few extra days to see the sites of Siena and bathe in its poetic beauty.
Tuscany is the first and only region in Italy to have created the Atlas of Cycling Routes, available on Visit Tuscany.
For inspiration, you can browse Strade di Siena here and Terre di Siena here.
For accommodation, you can refer to Hotel Centrale Siena.
A view of the Piazza del Campo, where the Strade Bianche races will finish this Saturday, from the heights of the historic clock tower.
A child blowing bubbles during Carnival activities in Piazza del Campo in the week leading up to Strade Bianche. The Piazza remains the social hub of the city, and it is here where the famous Palio horse races are held every summer. But really, there is always something going on in the Piazza del Campo.
The historic clock tower, which dates back to the early 14th century, towers above the city.
Inside the clock tower, this mechanical timer assures that the clock always keeps time. Meanwhile, large plates with numbers are placed just under the 12 on the clock face at midnight of each day, to announce the date of the month.
From their delicious pastries in the morning, to its lavish aperitivi, the historic Cafe Nannini is a must on any visit to Siena.
