Directly on the Banchi di Sotto, one of Siena's principal medieval thoroughfares and mere steps from the Piazza del Campo, a seventeenth-century palazzo that once belonged to the noble Gori Pannilini family carries the Grand Hotel Continental Siena as naturally as it carries its own stone. The building was converted by the Sienese Chigi Saracini banking family in the early twentieth century and has operated under Starhotels Collezione since 2002, its 51 rooms distributed across four floors of a structure whose street facade — rusticated pietra serena columns framing a barrel-vaulted entrance loggia, an iron lantern suspended above the threshold — has changed little since the palazzo's construction. Inside, the palazzo asserts itself at every turn. Frescoed ceilings with Greek key borders and trompe l'oeil architectural panels establish the decorative register of the grander suites, where canopied beds in gold-and-ivory damask and Venetian carved-glass mirrors sit alongside walnut commodes and powder-blue upholstered armchairs in a way that feels accumulated rather than assembled. The bar occupies a double-height former chapel or ceremonial hall, its most arresting element a monumental antique clock face mounted above the counter, its Roman numerals picked out in gilt against a patinated dark ground. The dining room wraps its terracotta-tiled floors and stucco arabesque ceilings in venetian-red plasterwork hung with Palio equestrian prints, a palette that makes no apology for its Sienese allegiances.

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Grand Hotel Continental in Siena is housed in a magnificent 17th-century palazzo that radiates elegance and charm. With its architectural magnificence, historic splendour and flawless service, every stay is transformed into a truly unique experience. One of the most prestigious hotels in the city, it is the only 5-star boutique hotel situated in the historic centre. Palazzo Gori Pannilini, the noble residence that today houses the hotel, is a wonderful example of Italian elegance. The Palazzo was endowed by Pope Alexander VII as a wedding gift to his niece Olimpia on marrying the Sienese aristocrat. Designed as a celebration of love, it has for centuries hosted the historical figures who made Siena great. Set in an enviable location, the hotel is just a few steps from the magnificent Cathedral and Piazza del Campo, which every year hosts the Palio race for which the city is renowned. Its sophisticated, elegant rooms and suites, with frescoed ceilings, original Tuscan cotto tiled floors and finishings in porcelain, marble and travertine, are finely decorated with antique furniture, precious objects, valuable artworks and luxurious silks. The Sapordivino restaurant offers a gastronomic experience at the very height of Italian culinary expression, with a sophisticated menu where diners can discover the authentic flavours of the purest Sienese tradition of cuisine. At the Lounge Bar by Sapordivino, guests can enjoy an aperitif or an after-dinner cocktail while immersed in a refined and tranquil atmosphere. The hotel houses four of Siena's most impressive halls. Here, high ceilings, beautiful 17th-century frescoes and exquisite Murano glass chandeliers provide the perfect backdrop for private events, weddings, seminars and conferences for up to 100 guests. From the Concierge to the 24-hour room service and valet parking, all the services are carefully selected to make every stay an unforgettable experience.