Grand Hotel Continental Siena – Starhotels Collezione

Hotel Description

Walking into the Grand Hotel Continental Siena feels like stepping into someone’s impossibly elegant palazzo – which, honestly, it basically is. The lobby hits you with this gorgeous mix of Renaissance frescoes and marble that somehow doesn’t feel stuffy or museum-like. I mean, you’re literally staying in a restored 17th-century palace right on Via Banchi di Sopra, which is basically Siena’s main shopping street but in the most charming, medieval way possible.

The location is actually perfect if you know Siena at all. You’re maybe a three-minute walk from Piazza del Campo – you know, where they run the crazy Palio horse race twice a year – and honestly, being this close to the action without dealing with the crowds right outside your window is ideal. The rooms have this incredible attention to detail that you don’t always get even at five-star places. We’re talking hand-painted ceilings, actual antique furniture (not reproduction stuff), and bathrooms with marble that probably costs more than most people’s cars. The windows in the front rooms look out over the medieval streets, and there’s something pretty magical about watching locals go about their morning routines while you’re having espresso in what feels like a Renaissance painting.

What really sets this place apart though – and why it’s got that 9.1 rating – is how they’ve managed to keep the historical soul while making everything work for modern travelers. The staff actually knows the city inside and out, not just the tourist highlights. They’ll tell you which enoteca has the best Brunello tastings or where to grab the most authentic pici pasta without the tourist markup. The hotel’s restaurant, Sapordivino, is legitimately good too, which isn’t always a given with hotel dining. During truffle season (October through December, if you’re planning), they do this incredible tasting menu that draws locals, not just hotel guests.

One thing worth mentioning – parking can be a bit tricky since you’re right in the historic center, but the hotel sorts it out with a nearby garage. It’s not cheap, but honestly, having a car in central Siena is more hassle than it’s worth anyway. The whole city center is basically pedestrian-only during the day. Check-in was smooth, though if you’re arriving during Palio season (July 2nd and August 16th), book way in advance and expect everything to be absolutely bonkers in the best possible way. The hotel gets pretty busy then, but the energy in the city is incredible. During quieter months, you’ll have more of that intimate, romantic Tuscan experience where you can actually hear the church bells echo off the medieval walls at sunset.

Rooms

• Estimated price from: $315. Classic Double Room for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $393. Classic Double Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $426. Superior Double Room with 1 large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $505. Deluxe Double Room with 1 extra-large double bed and 2 single beds for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $531. Deluxe Double or Twin Room with View with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $601. Family Room with 2 single beds and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $608. Noble Junior Suite with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $627. Triple Room with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $856. Heritage Suite with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $912. Panoramic Suite with 1 large double bed for Max persons: 2
• Estimated price from: $360. Standard Single Room with 1 single bed for Max persons: 1

Reviews

• Refined, elegant, wonderful stay – Katherine from United Kingdom – 10 July 2025 (10/10)

  World , Class breakfast very very elegant very refined. Beautifully presented and delicious.

• Amazing! Can’t wait to return! – Karen from United States – 6 July 2025 (10/10)

  Everything!
  
  What could be improved: The property exceeded our expectations

• Superb – Marcelle from South Africa – 2 July 2025 (9/10)

  Lovely room
  
  What could be improved: The bar area very modern

• Our stay was truly remarkable. It was very hard to leave. Good meal is good staff lovely location. – Jill from United States – 22 June 2025 (10/10)

  The property was gorgeous. Very well-maintained with a dedicated staff and a stunning setting.
  
  What could be improved: It was a little intimidating driving into Siena. However, the directions from the hotel were a very helpful and the staff was available to take charge of the car after we unloaded our bags.

• Loved the hotel and the staff would definitely recommend it – Isabelle from Italy – 15 June 2025 (9/10)

  The building the decor the attention to detail in the room – sheets, pillows towels etc
  
  What could be improved: We were street facing and it was noisy at night – there is a night club close by

• Exceptional – Anne from Ireland – 7 June 2025 (10/10)

  It was a lovely experience

• Superb – Penny from South Africa – 1 June 2025 (9/10)

  Fantastic breakfast

• Charming reception staff and great location in a grand old hotel – Penny from South Africa – 28 May 2025 (9/10)

  Delicious with lots of choices
  
  What could be improved: Smallish bathroom with shower in the bath. Would have preferred walk in shower

• Good hotel but overrated. – Nicky from Switzerland – 23 May 2025 (8/10)

  Location, room size.
  
  What could be improved: Breakfast lack a good selection.

• Room with a view 😍 – Ruth from Switzerland – 12 May 2025 (9/10)

  Perfectly located – although we messed up by not following the driving instructions that the hotel kindly sent in advance! We were ‘rescued’ by a lovely member of staff.
  
  What could be improved: A cozy lounge area is missing

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities