Palazzo Chigi Saracini
A historic palace and prestigious music academy, offering a fairytale setting with enchanting courtyards and artistic rooms.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Escape midday heat & crowds
Palazzo Chigi Saracini
Best Time
Escape midday heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic palace and prestigious music academy, offering a fairytale setting with enchanting courtyards and artistic rooms.
"It's a fairytale setting inside an ancient courtyard, one of the highlights of our trip in Siena."
🤫 Hidden Gem Alert!
Almost missed this place as it's hidden! Look for it inside the walls for a magical experience.
🎶 Music Lovers' Paradise
Home to the Accademia Chigiana, catch a performance for an unforgettable musical evening.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Enchanting Courtyard
Central Courtyard
A fairytale setting with a motto on the well, this ancient courtyard offers a peaceful escape and a magical atmosphere.
Accademia Musicale Chigiana
Palazzo Chigi Saracini
Experience the heart of musical education in a historic palace, with performances and a rich artistic heritage.
Artistically Interesting Rooms
Various Salons
Explore diverse and artistically rich rooms, each offering a unique glimpse into the palace's history and grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the Crowds in a Musical Oasis
A Fairytale Setting for Music and More
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Hidden Gem Alert!
Almost missed this place as it's hidden! Look for it inside the walls for a magical experience.
🎶 Music Lovers' Paradise
Home to the Accademia Chigiana, catch a performance for an unforgettable musical evening. 
🍸 Unique Cocktail Experience
Try a cocktail served in a decanter with smoke for an incredible flavor and visual treat.
🍽️ Delicious Bites & Atmosphere
Enjoy great food, from sharing plates to salads, in a truly atmospheric setting. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Hidden Gem Alert!
Almost missed this place as it's hidden! Look for it inside the walls for a magical experience.
🎶 Music Lovers' Paradise
Home to the Accademia Chigiana, catch a performance for an unforgettable musical evening.
🍸 Unique Cocktail Experience
Try a cocktail served in a decanter with smoke for an incredible flavor and visual treat.
🍽️ Delicious Bites & Atmosphere
Enjoy great food, from sharing plates to salads, in a truly atmospheric setting. +1
👶 Family-Friendly Amenities
They offer proper baby seats, which is a rarity in Italy.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Palazzo Chigi Saracini for its enchanting atmosphere, particularly its ancient courtyard and the unique experience offered by its cafe. The quality of the food and cocktails, along with the friendly service, adds to the appeal. While some note the food isn't the main draw, the overall ambiance and the palace's historical and musical significance make it a highly recommended stop in Siena.
"We had the best negroni ever here. It came in a decanter that was filled with smoked and flavour was incredible. It's a fairytale setting inside an ancient courtyard. We also had small sharing plates of meat and cheese. The motto on the well in the courtyard means it shines on the top and this was definitely one of the highlights of our trip in Siena. I loved that this is part of a foundation that is dedicated to promoting music that uplifts the spirit. Highly recommend visiting here for a peaceful rest from sightseeing and shopping."
Christine Sadler
"We almost missed this gorgeous place as it's hidden inside the walls ,not visible from the street... I don't think the atmosphere can get much better than this, but the place exceeded our expectations in all areas -food was just great (we had an appetizer plate that was amazing and the salads were big and tasty, too), my cocktail came in a cool bottle with smoke coming out 😅 , service was quick and good.
All in all, 5 stars from us 💜"
Helena Macinić
"If the food was as good as the atmosphere you'd never get a table. The food wasn't particularly special, but it was still enjoyable. If you're looking for a relatively inexpensive lunch or drinks in an atmospheric setting then it's worth a visit. They're also able to provide proper baby seats which seems to be rare in Italy."
Rob Pugh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Palazzo Chigi Saracini is a bit hidden and not immediately visible from the street. Look for it within the ancient walls of Siena. It's a true gem that rewards a little searching!
Siena's historic center, where Palazzo Chigi Saracini is located, is best explored on foot. Public buses can get you close to the center, but expect to walk from the bus stop.
Walking is the best way to discover the charming streets and hidden courtyards of Siena, including the area around Palazzo Chigi Saracini.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the palace is home to the Accademia Musicale Chigiana, access to certain areas for viewing or dining might not require a formal ticket, especially if you're visiting the cafe or attending an event. It's best to check their official website for specific event ticketing.
Opening hours can vary depending on whether you are visiting for a specific event, concert, or to dine at the cafe. For general access or to attend a performance, it's advisable to check the Accademia Chigiana's official schedule.
Entry fees typically apply for specific concerts or guided tours. Visiting the cafe or enjoying the courtyard might be free or have a nominal charge. Confirm details with the Accademia Chigiana.
Yes, tickets for concerts and events at Palazzo Chigi Saracini, hosted by the Accademia Chigiana, are usually available for online booking through their official website or authorized ticketing partners.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Palazzo Chigi Saracini is renowned as the historic seat of the Accademia Musicale Chigiana, a prestigious music institution. It's also celebrated for its stunning architecture, beautiful courtyards, and the artistic ambiance it offers.
Inside, you'll find artistically interesting rooms, elegant salons, and a rich collection of musical instruments and art. The ancient courtyard is a particular highlight.
Absolutely! The palace's architecture, courtyards, and interiors offer numerous picturesque spots for photography. Capture the grandeur of the rooms and the charm of the courtyard.
Guided tours might be available, especially for groups or during special events. It's recommended to inquire with the Accademia Chigiana directly about tour options and schedules.
The motto on the well in the courtyard translates to 'it shines on the top,' adding a layer of historical and symbolic meaning to the already enchanting space.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe, the @chigianartcafe, located within Palazzo Chigi Saracini, offering a charming spot for drinks and light meals in a beautiful setting.
The cafe offers a selection of drinks, including cocktails and local wines, as well as small sharing plates of meat and cheese, and salads. +1
Many visitors rave about the cocktails, particularly mentioning unique presentations like a decanter filled with smoke, enhancing the flavor and experience. +1
Reviews suggest the food is enjoyable, with some highlighting specific dishes like wild boar ragu as excellent. While atmosphere is a major draw, the food generally receives positive remarks. +2
Yes, it's considered a great place for a relatively inexpensive lunch or drinks in an atmospheric setting, offering a peaceful rest from sightseeing. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The ancient courtyard with its well is a prime spot. Also, explore the various richly decorated rooms and salons for stunning architectural and artistic shots.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas like the courtyard. For specific rooms or during events, it's best to check for any restrictions.
The unique presentation of cocktails with smoke, the intricate details of the architecture, and the musical instruments offer distinctive photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎶 Music Enthusiasts
Even if you can't catch a formal concert, the very atmosphere of the palace, steeped in musical tradition, is inspiring. Keep an eye on the Accademia's schedule for special events and performances. 📸 Photographers & Art Lovers
Look for unique details, from frescoes and sculptures to the historical musical instruments. The way light plays within the courtyard and rooms adds to the photographic appeal. Remember to be respectful of any ongoing activities or performances while you capture the beauty of this historic palace.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Musical Heart of Palazzo Chigi Saracini
This institution attracts talented musicians from around the world, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of learning and performance. Visitors can often experience this musical legacy through concerts and recitals held within the palace's historic halls. +1 The academy's dedication to promoting music that 'uplifts the spirit' is a core part of its mission and contributes to the palace's unique ambiance. Throughout the year, the Accademia Chigiana hosts various events, including the Chigiana International Festival.
These events offer a chance to hear world-class musicians perform in an intimate and historically rich setting. Even if you don't attend a formal concert, the very presence of the academy imbues the palace with a palpable sense of artistic energy. The cafe, @chigianartcafe, even hosts 'Concerti-Aperitivi,' blending music, architecture, and local wine for a delightful experience. A Glimpse into Siena's Rich History
+1 Legend has it that from the windows of this original tower, Sienese rulers received news of the historic victory at Montaperti. This deep historical root makes the palace a significant landmark in Siena's past. Over the centuries, the palace underwent various transformations and expansions. In the 16th century, it was acquired by the P family, and later by the Chigi family, who significantly shaped its current form.
The palace's architecture reflects different historical periods, offering a fascinating journey through time for those who explore its rooms. The motto on the courtyard well, 'it shines on the top,' is a testament to the enduring legacy and aspirations of its former inhabitants. Experiencing the Ambiance: Food, Drinks, and Relaxation
+1 Visitors often praise the unique presentation of drinks, such as cocktails served in decanters with smoke, adding a touch of theatre to the experience. The cafe also serves a selection of light meals and sharing plates, including charcuterie boards and salads, which are noted for being fresh and tasty.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit