cla

My husband and I are taking our first trip to Italy in June. We will be staying in Florence for 4 days and Rome 4 days. We would like to drive to Siena and spend one night. We are looking for a small, nice inn either within the city or very close by in the $200 range. I have looked at several sites but haven't found anything yet. Just wondering where everyone else has stayed. Thanks!

eroz

Consider the smaller hill town of San Gimignano. www.sangiapartments.com
it was lovely! We stayed there 2 summers ago. Very cheap 65 euro, large, clean and private bath.

bobthenavigator

You want either the Palazzo Ravizza or Santa Caterina in Siena. Both are lovely and have parking.

panecott

Agree with the above. I stayed at the Santa Caterina and it's lovely. It's just outside the city walls and about a 15 minute walk to the Campo. Rooms facing the garden have gorgeous views. Some are small but they vary in size.If you stay there, don't take a room facing the street. Very noisy and no view.
The Palazzo Ravizza is also lovely and right in town. Friends who stayed there have raved about it. I peeked in when I was there and it did look beautiful. Have you tried Tuscany.net? It's a great site.

cla

thanks for the info! I have emailed both of the hotels and the Santa Caterina has responded. Thanks!

panecott

You're welcome. I don't think you'll regret either choice. Both also have beautiful gardens. I loved having breakfast every morning in the Santa Caterina garden and relaxing there in the afternoon after sightseeing.
Just a suggestion: Although I personally love Florence, many people prefer Siena. There is much to see and do in Florence, especially if you like museums and shopping, but it's much more hectic than Siena. You might want to consider 3 nights in Florence and two in Siena for a more relaxed pace. If you have a car you can spend some time driving around the area. Enjoy.