Your Italian countryside travel wear will change depending on the season you visit. The climate is described as transitional Mediterranean because of Siena’s relatively mild winters and hot, sunny summers. The best times to visit Siena, based solely on the weather, are spring and autumn. But with so much to experience, such as the Palio, you might want to choose another season, and don’t be afraid because the weather is relatively mild all year.
Spring
March to May
Low temps: low 40s to low 50s
Highs temps: upper 50s to low 70s
Light jackets or sweaters for crisp mornings and evenings
Long-sleeved shirts or blouses
Trousers or jeansScarf or shawl for layering
Summer
June to August
Low temps: upper 50s to low 60s
High temps: low to upper 80s
Lightweight shorts, skirts, dresses and T-shirts
Sandals
Sunhat, sunglasses and sunscreen
Light jacket or shawl
Autumn
September to November
Low temps: mid 40s to upper 50s
High temps: upper 50s to upper 70s
Similar to spring (and much like home), pack layers
Long pants or skirts
Long-sleeved tops
Light sweaters
Lightweight jacket
Winter
December to February
Low temps: upper 30s
High temps: low 50s
Sweaters, coats, scarves and gloves
Waterproof and insulated footwear
Thermals (if you plan to be outdoors extensively)
Any time of the year:
Comfortable walking shoes (Siena’s streets are cobbled and hilly)
Clothing suitable for visiting churches (some may have dress codes requiring covered shoulders and knees)
An oversized purse for carrying market goods