Best Attractions in Siena

We've curated a list of 3 iconic landmarks and must-see sites. To experience them all properly, you'll need about 8 hours of exploration time.

MUST SEE 3h

Palazzo Pubblico

Perched at the very heart of the city, the Palazzo Pubblico stands as a majestic testament to the pride and ambition of the Sienese Republic. This stunning medieval palace, overlooking the world famous shell shaped Piazza del Campo, served as the seat of the government of the Nine and remains the centre of local administration to this day. Visitors are invited to step inside to explore the Museo Civico, where some of the most profound masterpieces of Italian art, including Ambrogio Lorenzetti's famous Allegory of Good and Bad Government, adorn the walls. It is an immersive experience where civic history and artistic brilliance collide, offering a rare glimpse into the medieval soul of Tuscany. Whether you are marvelling at the ornate halls or simply soaking in the atmosphere of the surrounding square, this site is an essential chapter in the story of Italy.

Did you know?

The palace houses the Teatro dei Rinnovati, a historic theatre that occupies the space of the former Great Council Hall.
view Palazzo Pubblico guide
MUST SEE 3h

Siena Cathedral
Cattedrale Metropolitana di Santa Maria Assunta

Step into the Duomo di Siena and you enter a world where time seems to stand still amidst an overwhelming display of artistic mastery. This architectural jewel, adorned with striking black and white striped marble, represents the pride and spiritual heart of Siena. Every corner of the cathedral holds a treasure, from the intricate narrative floor that changes with the light to the breathtaking sculptures crafted by masters like Michelangelo and Donatello. The unfinished façade of the Duomo Nuovo stands as a silent testament to the bold ambitions of a city that once dreamed of building the largest cathedral in Italy. Visitors often find themselves craning their necks to gaze up at the dizzying heights of the interior, where the celestial blue vaults meet an endless parade of papal portraits. It is a place that rewards those who slow down and look closely, offering a profound connection to the centuries of devotion and craftsmanship that forged this Italian wonder.

Did you know?

It houses a rare and beautiful bronze statue of Saint John the Baptist sculpted by Donatello in 1455.
view Siena Cathedral guide
MUST SEE 2h

Torre del Mangia

Rising high above the vibrant Piazza del Campo, the Torre del Mangia is the undisputed soul of Siena. Its slender, brick-red silhouette perfectly mirrors the height of the Duomo, symbolizing a medieval balance between the power of the church and the state. Climbing its four hundred steps rewards visitors with unparalleled, sweeping panoramas of the rolling Tuscan hills and the terracotta rooftops of this historic city. Beyond its height, the tower holds centuries of secrets, including the namesake of a gluttonous bell-ringer and a surprising resilience against earthquakes. It is an essential stop for anyone wanting to truly understand the heart of medieval Siena.

Did you know?

The foundations were blessed with ancient inscriptions in Greek, Latin, and Hebrew, alongside coins intended to ward off disaster.
view Torre del Mangia guide