PALAZZO RAVIZZA, Siena

Palazzo Ravizza sits in the heart of Siena's historic centre, just 700 metres from Piazza del Campo. The surrounding ZTL area preserves a remarkably peaceful atmosphere while placing major landmarks within easy reach. A one-way traffic zone is active, and the property provides specific driving directions to avoid penalties. Walking everywhere is practical: the Duomo is around a 10-minute stroll, and bus lines 10 and 11 serve the area but stop near Via Tozzi, about a 30-minute walk away. For direct rail or air connections, a taxi from the station (€20-25) is the recommended option.

All 41 rooms are air-conditioned and feature electric kettles, flat-screen TVs, and private bathrooms (shower only). Room sizes and furnishings vary-some include frescoed walls, while others are more compact with windows high in the wall. Superior rooms on the town/street side can include a double and a single bed. Garden-facing rooms provide significant views over the surrounding countryside and are generally quieter; street-facing rooms may encounter traffic noise. Beds are duvet-covered, and some double rooms have queen-size (190 cm) beds. A small balcony is present in one room only.

Breakfast is included for all residents and provides a generous selection of bread, croissants, savoury pie, fresh fruit, yogurt, mozzarella and Pecorino cheese, cereals, juice, and hot beverages. Gluten-free options are available on request. The meal is self-service, and tables are cleared to the bar area by diners. The property does not have a restaurant, but the bar serves drinks and wine in the garden, and a welcome drink is offered. Nearby restaurants such as La Taverna di San Giuseppe and Ristorante Al Mangia (both within 500 metres) provide dinner options.

The garden is a peaceful retreat that serves as a notable asset for the hotel. Guests can sit outdoors with a drink from the bar, enjoy breakfast, or simply take in the hill views. No spa, swimming pool, or gym is on site. For additional activities, bike tours and walking tours can be arranged at the hotel for an extra charge, and hiking, cooking classes, and horse riding are available off-site.

The hotel's facilities include a lift, non-smoking rooms with air conditioning and heating throughout, and a shared lounge/TV area. Luggage storage is free of charge and useful for early arrivals. Concierge, tour desk, and room service are available, as is a safety deposit box. Daily housekeeping is included. A 24-hour front desk handles check-in. The property's parking is private, on-site, and costs €10 per day, but it operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations. Payment can be made via American Express, Visa, Diners Club, Maestro, CartaSi, or MasterCard.