Dreamy Siena Stay: La Certosa di Maggiano

Tucked among the rolling hills just outside Siena, La Certosa di Maggiano feels less like a traditional hotel and more like a private Tuscan retreat. From the moment you arrive, there is an unmistakable sense of place: centuries-old architecture, lush gardens, olive trees, and the kind of quiet that makes you immediately forget what time it is. It is equally lovely for couples and families, with a relaxed atmosphere that makes you feel instantly at home.

If you are traveling from Florence, we found that the easiest way to reach the hotel is by private transfer. The train to Siena is easy to navigate, but can become quite crowded with locals and luggage, making a private transfer well worth it. Once in Siena, spend time wandering Piazza del Campo, visiting the Duomo di Siena, and exploring the medieval streets, shops, and cafés. The city is especially rewarding when you leave plenty of time to simply wander without an agenda.

The food was another highlight of our stay. Breakfast at La Certosa is extraordinary, with beautiful presentation, fresh ingredients, and an atmosphere that makes it feel like an experience rather than a hotel breakfast. We loved it so much that we ended up eating all of our meals at the on-site restaurant, happily trading sightseeing for long, leisurely meals surrounded by the beauty of the property.

But what truly sets La Certosa apart is its hospitality. The staff treats you like family, greeting you by name and remembering the smallest details throughout your stay. Even the property's golden retriever, Mai, adds to the feeling that you have been welcomed into someone's home rather than simply checked into a hotel. It is the kind of place that makes leaving genuinely difficult, and for us, that meant extending our honeymoon by an extra night.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Siena page.