Italy Travel Destinations - Siena in Summer

Siena has a range of multi-buy ticket promotions running all the year round so it won't cost you the earth to enjoy its culture, architecture and history during your stay. If you are on a budget, however, you will want to avoid the weekends of Il Palio - the famous Sienese horse race that takes place a couple of times a year. During these weekends the price of accommodation and restaurant food will be at least twice as much as usual.

Unlike its larger rival, Florence, the majority of Siena's art and architecture harks back to the gothic period. The historic centre steeped in centuries of Italian culture has now been named a UNESCO world heritage site, celebrating and protecting its enchanting streets. Many of the churches are free to enter, so if you're not too concerned about seeing the major tourist attractions it's absolutely possible to spend a few days soaking up the atmosphere without spending a single euro on admission fees, though the spectacular Duomo is highly recommended.

Siena is also a great spot from which to explore the Italian countryside. If you have transport with you, or if you choose to hire a car, why not think about taking a day trip out to the delightful San Gimignano? While this small town is a historical site in its own right, the main reason for many a tourist's pilgrimage to San Gimignano is the gelato - claimed to be the best in the world.

If wine is more your thing, then head into the Chianti countryside and book yourself a place on a wine tasting tour. They needn't be expensive and they will broaden your mind to a range of exciting Italian wines as well as giving advice as to what sorts of food they should accompany.

If you are worried about money, in the face of the credit crunch, take a look at budget airline flights and steer clear of package hotel deals which usually end up costing more in Italy. If you're concerned about your phone bill too, then visit Vodafone's website and take a look at their range of handsets, such as the new iPhone 4 - this summer you can make calls and send text messages for the same price you would pay at home; in short, negating the roaming prices which can ruin fun memories of a holiday. There's no reason why the recession should make your summer break impossible this year, it might just require a little more consideration.

Related: Rome, Italy