I'm having a tough time remembering exactly how long the ride was, but it wasn't very long. In nine days five years ago, I went soley on public transport from Rome to Siena to Florence to Bologna to Venice to Milan... Three days each in Rome and Venice, one day in Siena, one and a half in Florence and a half day to see the main plaza in Bologna (where the food was delicious!). I flew out of Milan but not before taking a quick look a the Duomo there.

Here is a timetable for the Siena-Firenze bus (there are many options). It appears that it is only 75 minutes away if you take the fast bus and there is frequent service.

Here is a good general link to the town of Siena.
http://www.turismoverde.com/english/enhome.htm


I would also recommend pre-ordering tickets to the Uffizi (if that is possible now). I must have spent more than an hour on line in late March, and then you can easily spend a good half day inside the galleries. That is why I say skip the Uffizi unless you really love Renaissance art (I personally prefer the outdoor architecture in Florence more). The crowds really take away from the experience of seeing the art. So, if you go, go as early as possible.



[This message has been edited by fallinasleep (edited 02-14-2001).]