Would you like to spend a holiday in Siena and are looking for an attractive offer to explore the Via Francigena? In this case, we recommend booking a stay at Albergo Minerva, our wonderful 3-star hotel in the center of Siena, just a few minutes’ walk from Piazza del Campo and the city’s main attractions.
Comfortable and Convenient Accommodation
Albergo Minerva features a bar, elevator, and a paid, closed garage with direct access to the hotel and 20 available spaces. The hotel offers 56 air-conditioned rooms, all different, with free Wi-Fi, and divided into four categories: Easy-Economy, Elegant-Standard, Superior Room, and Junior Suite.
- Easy Rooms: With a double bed or two single beds on request, these rooms are located on the inner side and do not overlook the historic center, with a surface area starting from 16 m².
- Elegant Standard Rooms: Furnished in a modern style with pastel tones, these rooms offer a view of the historic center of Siena and have a surface area starting from 19 m². They are available as single and double rooms, and can accommodate up to 4 people.
- Superior Rooms: All with views of the Basilica of San Francesco, the Basilica of Provenzano, and Porta Ovile, with a surface area starting from 19 m².
- Junior Suite Matrimonial: With views of the historic center of Siena, these rooms have a surface area starting from 19 m² and are equipped with a small terrace. All have a double bed and, on request, two separate beds.
You can choose from many options, all equipped with Wi-Fi, for your leisure or business stay.
Art, Relaxation, and Fun for the Whole Family
Inside Hotel Minerva, you will periodically find a real modern art gallery exhibiting works by Sienese painters. Our hotel is quiet and perfect for parents with children; we also have cribs, bottle warmers, sterilizers, and an indoor playroom available.
Minerva is close to two playgrounds and about 15 minutes from Orto de’ Pecci, a beautiful garden with animals, ideal for a family day out.
Facilities for Business Meetings
Albergo Minerva offers an excellent location for business meetings, equipped with Wi-Fi and a conference room with a view of the historic center. The room can accommodate up to 40 people and is equipped with an LED TV, projector, overhead projector, and all the necessary facilities for events and meetings.
Breakfast and Parking
For breakfast, Hotel Minerva offers a delicious Italian and international breakfast with genuine and selected jams.
Hotel Minerva reserves a large guarded garage for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles for its guests. The garage is just outside the limited traffic zone and is a paid service.
Contact Information
The hotel is located in Siena at Via Garibaldi, 72, just 2 minutes by car from the railway station and in a NON-ZTL area. To book our hotel in central Siena with parking to explore the Via Francigena, click “Book” at the top right or call +39 0577.284474 or email info@albergominerva.it.
The Via Francigena: An Adventure to Experience
The Via Francigena is one of the oldest and most fascinating pilgrimage routes in Europe, connecting Canterbury to Rome and passing through England, France, Switzerland, and Italy. Siena is one of the most important stops on this historic route, offering pilgrims a rich cultural and artistic heritage to discover.
The Tuscan section of the Via Francigena traverses breathtaking landscapes, medieval villages, and art cities, offering a unique experience of walking and reflection. Hospitality along the way is renowned, with numerous rest and accommodation points for travelers.
During your stay in Siena, you can explore the city’s beauties, including the Cathedral, the Palazzo Pubblico, and the Torre del Mangia, and enjoy the delicious Tuscan cuisine in the many local restaurants and trattorias.
Main Routes of the Via Francigena in Siena
1. San Gimignano
San Gimignano, known as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” for its numerous towers, is one of the first stops on the Via Francigena in the province of Siena. This enchanting village is famous for its well-preserved historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pilgrims can admire the architectural beauty of the towers, visit the Collegiata, and enjoy a walk along its cobblestone streets.
2. Monteriggioni
Continuing the journey, pilgrims arrive in Monteriggioni, another medieval village famous for its intact walls and towers that seem to come straight out of a history book. This small village, with its ancient charm, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside. Monteriggioni represents an important historical landmark along the Via Francigena, evoking the atmosphere of times past.
3. Siena
Siena is undoubtedly one of the most significant stops on the Via Francigena. This city, famous for its Palio and the splendid Piazza del Campo, offers a wide range of cultural and historical attractions. Pilgrims can visit the Siena Cathedral, with its unique marble floor, and the Piccolomini Library, rich in Renaissance frescoes. The historic center of Siena, with its medieval streets and historic buildings, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Buonconvento
After leaving Siena, pilgrims continue towards Buonconvento, another charming medieval village along the Via Francigena. This village is known for its well-preserved walls and the Museum of Sacred Art of Val d’Arbia, which houses a rich collection of religious art. Buonconvento is the perfect place for a refreshing break, offering warm hospitality and the chance to explore the historic beauty of the village.
5. San Quirico d’Orcia
San Quirico d’Orcia is another must-see stop along the Via Francigena. Located in the heart of Val d’Orcia, this village is famous for its well-preserved historic center and the Italian gardens of Horti Leonini. The Collegiate Church of Saints Quirico and Giulitta, with its splendid Romanesque façade, is one of the main attractions of the village. San Quirico d’Orcia also offers panoramic views of the Tuscan countryside, making it an ideal place for a meditative break.
6. Radicofani
Radicofani is the last major stop on the Via Francigena in the province of Siena before entering Lazio. This village is famous for its medieval fortress, offering a spectacular view of the Val d’Orcia. The Rocca di Radicofani, with its imposing tower, is one of the most iconic landmarks of the route. Pilgrims can explore the ancient streets of the village and enjoy the scenic beauty of the area.
The Experience of the Via Francigena
The Via Francigena is not just a pilgrimage route, but also a journey of discovery of the culture, history, and nature of Tuscany. Each stop offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty and tranquility of the Tuscan landscapes, explore medieval villages, and discover hidden treasures.
Preparing for the Journey
To tackle the Via Francigena, it is important to be well prepared. It is advisable to bring suitable equipment, including comfortable hiking shoes, clothing suitable for different weather conditions, a water bottle, and a light backpack. It is also useful to have a guide of the route and a detailed map to orient oneself along the way.
Culture and Gastronomy
During the journey along the Via Francigena, pilgrims have the opportunity to discover the rich culture and delicious gastronomy of Tuscany. Each village offers local specialties to savor, including fine wines, cheeses, cured meats, and traditional dishes. The trattorias and restaurants along the route offer warm hospitality and the chance to enjoy authentic Tuscan dishes.
Pilgrims’ Hospitality
Along the Via Francigena, pilgrims can count on warm and hospitable accommodation. Numerous hotels, farmhouses, hostels, and B&Bs offer lodging for travelers, with the opportunity to rest and rejuvenate after a day of walking. Tuscan hospitality is renowned for its genuineness and warmth, making the pilgrimage experience even more special.
Albergo Minerva: Your Refuge in Siena
If you wish to explore the Via Francigena and discover the wonders of Siena, Albergo Minerva is the ideal starting point. Located in the heart of Siena, Albergo Minerva offers warm hospitality and all the comforts necessary for an unforgettable stay.
Comfort and Services
Albergo Minerva features a bar, elevator, and a paid, closed garage with direct access to the hotel and 20 available spaces. The 56 air-conditioned rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi and divided into four categories: Easy-Economy, Elegant-Standard, Superior Room, and Junior Suite. Each room offers a welcoming and comfortable environment, ideal for resting after a day of walking along the Via Francigena.
Art and Culture
Inside the hotel, you can admire a modern art gallery exhibiting works by Sienese painters, offering a unique cultural experience. Albergo Minerva is perfect for families, with available cribs, bottle warmers, sterilizers, and an indoor playroom. Additionally, the hotel is close to two playgrounds and about 15 minutes from Orto de’ Pecci, a beautiful garden with animals.
Breakfast and Parking
The hotel offers a delicious Italian and international breakfast with genuine and selected jams. For its guests, Albergo Minerva reserves a large guarded garage for cars, motorcycles, and bicycles, located just outside the limited traffic zone.
Contact Information
The hotel is located in Siena at Via Garibaldi, 72, just 2 minutes by car from the railway station and in a NON-ZTL area. To book your stay at Albergo Minerva and discover the Via Francigena, click “Book” at the top right or call +39 0577.284474 or email info@albergominerva.it.
A Unique Experience
Don’t miss the opportunity to have a unique experience along the Via Francigena and discover the wonders of Siena. Book your stay at Albergo Minerva and enjoy the comfort and convenience of our 3-star hotel located in the heart of Siena.