With its ramparts still standing, Siena is Italy's best preserved medieval town, which at one stage was a serious rival to Florence. Sienna is close enough to be done in a day trip from Florence, however you may want to stay here in order to really explore the city. If possible, try and visit Siena on 2 July or 16 August when the city is home to the unique Palio horse race and festival.
Piazza del Campo 56, Sienna
Tel (0577) 280 551
Siena has frequent trains to Florence - buses 2, 3 and 10 run from the station to the centre.
Via Fiorentina 89, 53100 Siena (Siena)
Tel (0577) 52212