Retiring in Siena, Italy

Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers retirees an enchanting medieval atmosphere combined with modern comforts. With its well-preserved historic center, excellent healthcare facilities, and strong cultural traditions, Siena provides an authentic Tuscan lifestyle in a more intimate setting than Florence.

*Purchasing power compared to New York City (baseline = 100)

Pros

  • ✓ Beautiful medieval setting
  • ✓ Strong cultural traditions
  • ✓ Lower tourist pressure
  • ✓ High quality of life
  • ✓ Central Tuscan location
  • ✓ Excellent food and wine

Cons

  • × Limited job market
  • × Smaller city amenities
  • × Hilly terrain
  • × Few international flights
  • × Limited public transport

Transportation & Connectivity

Local Transportation

Walkability score: 9/10

Available public transport: Buses, Regional Trains

Weather & Climate

Summer

Average temperature: 29°C / 84°F

Winter

Average temperature: 5°C / 41°F

Annual Climate Overview

Annual rainfall: 743mm

Sunny days per year: 258

Language & Communication

Language information coming soon

Visa Requirements

Required Documents

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of income (minimum €31,000/year)
  • Comprehensive health insurance
  • Clean criminal record
  • Proof of accommodation

Application Process

Apply through Italian consulate in home country, then register at local anagrafe

Timeline

Estimated processing time: 3-6 months

Healthcare System

Public Healthcare

High-quality public healthcare with teaching hospital

Private Options

Several private clinics with specialized services

Wait Times

2-3 weeks for non-urgent procedures

Major Hospitals

  • Ospedale Santa Maria alle Scotte
  • Policlinico Le Scotte
  • Centro Medico Siena
  • Private Hospital Villa Lucia

Lifestyle & Community

Expat Community

Small but active international community with regular social events

Activities

Historical tours Wine tasting Cooking classes Language schools Cultural events Countryside excursions

Local Markets

  • Mercato nel Campo
  • Mercato di San Miniato
  • Mercato delle Erbe
  • Local Farmers Market

Cultural Events

  • Palio di Siena
  • Jazz & Wine Festival
  • Siena Summer Festival
  • Medieval Festival

Practical Information

Monthly Costs

  • Average Groceries €370
  • Utilities €135
  • Restaurant Meal €25

Banking Options

  • Monte dei Paschi di Siena
  • UniCredit
  • Intesa Sanpaolo
  • N26 (Digital)
  • Wise (Digital)

Internet Providers

  • TIM
  • Vodafone
  • WindTre
  • Fastweb
  • Tiscali

Popular Areas

  • Centro Storico
  • San Prospero
  • Camollia
  • Due Porte
  • Ravacciano

Sources

Source: Numbeo Cost of Living (2024)
Source: Tuscany Healthcare System (2023)
Source: Climate Data (2023)
Source: Immobiliare.it Market Report (2024)