Via Banchi di Sopra is one of the main streets of Siena’s historic centre, curving past medieval palazzi, shops and cafés. It leads towards the Croce del Travaglio, the junction where Via di Città and Via Banchi di Sotto meet, making it a useful starting point for exploring the city on foot.
The street follows the historic route of the Via Francigena, travelled for centuries by pilgrims heading towards Rome. Its name recalls the banchi, or counters, used by merchants and bankers. On Piazza Salimbeni, just off the street, Palazzo Salimbeni is associated with Monte dei Paschi di Siena, founded in 1472 and often cited as the world’s oldest surviving bank. Palazzo Tolomei is another reminder of the wealthy families who shaped medieval Siena.
Today, Via Banchi di Sopra is as much a place for everyday errands and conversation as sightseeing. Browse the shops, stop for coffee or try local sweets such as panforte and ricciarelli, then turn into a side lane for a quieter view of the city. Look up as you walk: carved stone details and iron torch-holders are easy to miss at street level.
Visit early in the morning or in the evening for a more relaxed walk, especially in summer. The street is inside Siena’s limited traffic zone, so leave the car outside the centre and continue on foot; buses also stop at nearby Piazza Gramsci and Piazza Matteotti. Wear shoes with good grip for the sloping, sometimes uneven paving, and check shop hours if visiting around lunchtime.