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Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

Tuscany, Italy

Iconic Landmarks

Siena's skyline is dominated by architectural marvels, each a testament to its storied past.

These sites offer deep insights into the city's rich history and artistic heritage, central to its identity.

Visitor Information

  • Book tickets online in advance to skip lines for popular attractions.
  • Check official websites for seasonal hours and any temporary closures.
  • Consider cumulative tickets like the OPA SI Pass for the Duomo complex.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better photography light.

Major Sienese Icons

Piazza del Campo & Duomo

  • Piazza del Campo: Siena's main public space, shell-shaped, setting for Palio. Always open, free.
  • Palio Race: Dramatic bareback horse race (July 2, Aug 16), demonstrating contrada rivalry.
  • Duomo di Siena: Masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture, intricate facade, black and white marble interior.
  • Mosaic Floor: Captivating mosaic floor, one of Italy's most magnificent (uncovered a few weeks each autumn).
  • Duomo Admission: Ticket required. Consider OPA SI Pass for full complex access.
  • Guided Options: Audio guides available. Private tours for a experience.

Palazzo Pubblico & Torre del Mangia

  • Palazzo Pubblico: Siena's town hall since the 13th century, housing Museo Civico.
  • Museo Civico: Famous for grand frescoes like Lorenzetti's "Allegory of Good and Bad Government."
  • Torre del Mangia: Tall bell tower, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Siena and Tuscany.
  • Torre Access: Separate ticket required or combined with Museo Civico. Over 400 steps; no elevator.

Book tickets for the Duomo and Torre online to save time. Affiliate link: GetYourGuide.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Museo dell'Opera del Duomo: Houses original sculptures and artworks from the Cathedral, including "Maestà."
  • Santa Maria della Scala: Former medieval hospital, now a vast museum complex with art, archaeology, and historical spaces.
  • Pinacoteca Nazionale: Siena's National Art Gallery, with Sienese painting from the 13th to 16th centuries.
  • Museo delle Contrade: Each of Siena's 17 districts has a museum displaying Palio artifacts, banners, and costumes.

Historical Sites

  • Fortezza Medicea:

    Large brick fortress by Medici family, pleasant walks along ramparts, views of the city. Hosts Enoteca Italiana.

  • San Domenico Basilica:

    Large Gothic church, housing the head and thumb of Saint Catherine of Siena. Serene atmosphere.

  • Sanctuary of Santa Caterina:

    Complex of chapels and oratories built around the house where Saint Catherine lived.

Natural Attractions

Explore Siena's green spaces and the iconic Tuscan landscapes just beyond the city walls.

Green Spaces within Siena

  • Orto Botanico dell'Università di Siena

    A small botanical garden maintained by the University of Siena, offering a quiet, green escape.

  • Giardini della Lizza

    A public park near the Fortezza Medicea, with nice city views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Val d'Orcia

A UNESCO World Heritage landscape south of Siena, famous for rolling hills, cypress trees, and hilltop towns. Ideal for scenic drives and photography.

Chianti Region

The renowned wine region between Siena and Florence. Endless vineyards, olive groves, and charming medieval villages. Perfect for wine tasting tours.

Countryside Relaxation

The surrounding countryside offers tranquil escapes, perfect for unwinding amidst nature.

Affiliate Resources for Tours

Consider booking your tours and tickets for attractions in advance through trusted platforms.

  • For a wide range of attraction tickets and guided tours in Siena and Tuscany, visit GetYourGuide.
  • Pre-booking can save time and offer better availability, especially during peak season.
  • Many tours offer flexible cancellation policies.

Hidden Gems

Siena holds many lesser-known treasures, waiting to be discovered by the curious traveler.

These sites offer unique perspectives on the city's past and present, away from the main tourist paths.

Fonte Gaia

While in Piazza del Campo, take time to truly observe the intricate carvings and water flow of this beautiful fountain. It's a work of art often overlooked.

History & Significance

  • Original sculptures are in Santa Maria della Scala museum.
  • The current fountain is a 19th-century replica.
  • Historically source of water for the city.

Underground Aqueducts Bottini

Siena possesses a fascinating network of medieval underground tunnels that historically supplied the city with water. Engineering marvels largely hidden.

Access & Tours

  • Guided tours occasionally offered by local associations.
  • Check with the tourist office for availability and booking.
  • Provides an unique perspective on Siena's past and water management.

Giardini della Lizza

A public park just outside the city walls, near the Fortezza Medicea. It offers nice views of the city and a relaxing atmosphere.

Park Features

  • Pleasant spot for a stroll or to sit and enjoy the fresh air.
  • Offers good vantage points for city views.
  • Conveniently located for those staying outside the historic center.
  • Relaxing atmosphere for a break from sightseeing.

Jewish Ghetto

Explore the historic Jewish quarter, centered around Via delle Scotte. This area offers a different perspective on Siena's past.

Historical Insights

  • The narrow streets and older buildings tell a story of Siena's diverse history.
  • Not overtly marked, but its historical character is palpable.
  • A less-visited area for quiet contemplation.

Other distinguished Attractions

Basilica of San Francesco

  • A large church with impressive art and a peaceful cloister.
  • Contains relics and art from significant Sienese painters.

Complesso Museale Santa Maria della Scala

  • A vast former hospital complex now a museum.
  • Houses ancient frescoes, artifacts, and archaeological finds.

Planning Your Visits

Strategic planning enhances your sightseeing experience and allows you to make the most of your time.

Walking Tours

Join a guided walking tour to discover Siena's history and secrets from a local expert.

Self-Guided Exploration

Utilize maps and guidebooks for a personalized route through the city's charming streets.

Day Trip Planning

Factor in travel time for day trips to Val d'Orcia or Chianti for a relaxed experience.

Duomo Complex Visit Tips

Allocate Sufficient Time

Allocate at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the Cathedral, its museum, the Baptistery, and the panoramic viewpoint.

Book Duomo Tickets

OPA SI Pass Value

The OPA SI Pass offers combined entry and value for exploring the entire Duomo complex.

Explore Pass Options

Panorama dal Facciatone

Do not miss the opportunity to climb for incredible panoramic views of Siena and the countryside.

Views & Tickets

Mosaic Floor Uncovering

The mosaic floor is usually covered but is fully uncovered for a few weeks each autumn.

Check Dates & Availability

Guided Tours for Depth

A guided tour of the Duomo complex offers a deep dive into Sienese art and history.

Book Guided Tours

Palazzo Pubblico & Torre del Mangia Visit Tips

Combine your visit with a climb up the Torre del Mangia, as they are in the same building.

Torre Climbing Advice

  • Be prepared for a climb of over 400 steps; there is no elevator.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
  • Limited number of people allowed at the top; expect a wait during busy periods.

Piazza del Campo Experience

Visit early morning for a quieter experience and better photos, or in the late afternoon as the light softens.

Piazza Activities

  • Join locals sitting on the ground to appreciate the unique slope.
  • Watch city life unfold and soak in the atmosphere.
  • If visiting during Palio, observe the pre-race festivities.
  • Find a cafe with outdoor seating for people-watching.

Overall Sightseeing Strategy

Prioritize booking popular attractions like the Duomo and Torre del Mangia well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Allocate sufficient time for each major site to fully explore and appreciate their historical and artistic value.

Beyond the Mainstream

For those seeking historical context or a peaceful break, explore these specific locations.

Museo dell'Opera del Duomo

Located next to the Duomo, this museum houses original sculptures and artworks from the Cathedral, preserving its artistic legacy.

Highlights

  • Home to Duccio di Buoninsegna's renowned "Maestà."
  • Access is typically included with the OPA SI Pass.
  • Offers a close look at the cathedral's original facade sculptures.

Pinacoteca Nazionale

Siena's National Art Gallery showcases Sienese painting from the 13th to 16th centuries, tracing its artistic development.

Collection Focus

  • Comprehensive collection of works from the Sienese School.
  • Artworks by celebrated Sienese masters.
  • A quiet venue for art appreciation.

Santa Maria della Scala

A vast complex opposite the Duomo, this former medieval hospital now a museum.

Exploration Guide

  • Explore extensive levels, including pilgrim wards and frescoes.
  • Art, archaeological exhibits unearthed from its foundations.
  • Historically served as a charitable institution for centuries.

Plan for a few hours to discover all its facets.

Fortezza Medicea

A large, brick fortress built by the Medici family after their conquest of Siena in the mid-16th century.

Activities & Views

  • Offers pleasant walks along its ramparts with city views.
  • Hosts the Enoteca Italiana, a national wine repository and tasting room.

A fine place to sample Italian wines and enjoy a stroll.

San Domenico Basilica

A large Gothic church prominent on Siena's skyline. A site of spiritual importance.

Spiritual & Artistic Value

  • Famous for housing the head and thumb of Saint Catherine of Siena.
  • Offers a serene atmosphere for reflection.
  • Houses prominent artworks by Sienese masters.

A peaceful stop for history and reverence.

Jewish Ghetto Exploration

Location

Centered around Via delle Scotte, a historic area revealing Siena's diverse past.

Character

Narrow streets and older buildings tell a quiet story, not overtly marked as a tourist site.

Experience

A less-visited area, ideal for quiet contemplation and historical discovery.