Pisa & Siena

Managed a trip here in September 2015 as part of a 3 centre break which included Florence.

Started off in Pisa but nearly never as the plane had a haphazard attempt at landing. Pilot decided to give it another bash. Got one if the best views of the Leaning Tower as the plane skimmed low over it. We got a wave from the tourists at the top!!!

Pisa is better than I thought it would be after the reports I’d heard. During the day the area around the Tower is mobbed with coachloads but gets quiet at night. Great time to get the camera out. It’s also worthwhile in the evening going down to the Fiume Arno where you will join the locals in some nice restaurants and bars.

Now Siena. It is simply stunning. High up on a hill you can get some great images over the Tuscan hillsides. In the town itself immerse yourself in the narrow lanes before heading to the Piazza del Campo. This is beautiful with its red brick buildings all around you. Restaurants line the outer edges. This is the venue for the annual Il Palio horserace.

Don’t miss out on the climb up the Facciatone where you will get stunning views over the red tile rooftops of Siena and down to the Piazza del Campo. This was probably my favourite part of the trip. Get there early or buy a ticket beforehand to avoid a long wait although it is worth it. It’s also a better time to take photos as the sun isn’t too high and you’ll get the best red colours.

My first visit to Tuscany and definitely not my last. Oh how I’m loving this new camera.