tour duomo di siena

Siena Cathedral 2024: How to Visit & What to See (+Tickets, Tours & Useful Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 24, 2024

Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena) is one of the finest examples of Romanesque-Gothic style architecture and is one of the most beautiful churches in Italy! And if you know that Italy has thousands of churches, one more impressive than the other, then this probably says it all.

So if you are wondering whether the Duomo of Siena is worth a visit, don’t even hesitate – it absolutely is!

But if you do even some quick research, you’ll realize that the Cathedral of Siena is so much more than just a big church. In fact, the Siena Duomo Complex is made up of 7 different marvels, each unique and worth a visit in its own right.

In this guide, we give you a better idea of what to expect when visiting the Cathedral of Siena. You can read more about all the main sights at the Duomo Complex , see which ticket options are best for you, or which tickets/tours you have to prebook if you absolutely do not want to miss a certain experience.

We also include some practical information such as the dress code , etc.

In other words, this article should give you a better idea of what to expect when visiting Duomo di Siena and answer any practical questions you might have. Take a look!

Siena Duomo Complex: What to See

As already mentioned, there is a lot to see at the Siena Duomo Complex, and almost every place has a separate entrance. The good thing is that all the main sights are located inside or adjacent to the Cathedral building and almost all of them are included in this all-in OPA SI Pass (more info about tickets and tours further below).

However, some places are easier to visit than others. There is one part that can only be seen with a guided tour, and one where you can expect a long and very slow queue, especially if visiting in the high season.

TIP: Further below in this guide, you can find more detailed info about each of these sites, as well as pictures to give you a better idea of what you can expect to see.

But first, a short overview of the main places to see at the Duomo di Siena:

• Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena). This is the main Cathedral building with an awe-inspiring interior and remarkable floors that are fully uncovered during certain periods each year. The main entrance is via the stairs at Piazza del Duomo.
• Piccolomini Library (Libreria Piccolomina). Can be accessed directly from the Cathedral and is an absolute must-see.
• Museum (Museo dell’Opera del Duomo). This is a religious art museum to the east of the main building. The main reason to come here is actually not the museum itself, but the place you can access from there – Facciatone.
• New Cathedral & Panorama (Panorama dal Facciatone) . This is an unfinished part of the Duomo di Siena where you can visit an outdoor terrace that offers stunning 360° views of the city. Accessible from the upper floor of Museo dell’Opera, you might spend an hour or even more queuing here in order to get on the outside terrace.
• The Crypt (Cripta) is located on the right at the back of the Cathedral. The interior is very pretty and visiting here only requires a few minutes of your time.
• Baptistry of San Giovani (Battisero) is located at the very back of the Cathedral. Just like the crypt, it only requires a few minutes of your time and its gorgeous interior is absolutely worth a quick look.
• Gate of Heaven (Porta del Cielo). This is the only part where you can only visit with a guided tour. The tours are timed and the spaces are limited, so it’s best to book at least a few days in advance. This is the ‘rooftop’ of the Cathedral where you visit the attic and get to enjoy unique views of the interior of the church from above as well as some nice high-angle views of the city.

In addition, you can also visit the Oratory of San Bernardino (Oratorio della Compagnia di San Bernardino). This church/religious art museum is located on the other side of the town center, about 10-15 minutes walk from the Duomo. If you have a full day in Siena and are highly interested in religious art, you may want to check it out. It’s a bit of a hidden gem that – despite being included in the Duomo ticket – hardly sees any tourists.

Opening Times

The Cathedral of Siena and all the main sites are open daily throughout the year.

In the high season, the Cathedral, Piccolomini Library, and Museo dell’Opera are normally open from 9.30 am to 7.30 pm, except on Sundays and public holidays when the Cathedral is closed in the mornings.

The Facciatone, the Crypt, and the Baptistery open half an hour later and close half an hour earlier.

The opening times of all the sites vary a bit and depend on the season and the day of the week. You can find up-to-date information on the opening hours on the official Cathedral website .

Here are the best ticket options for Siena Cathedral:

• Cathedral & Piccolomini Library . This ticket gives you access to the main Cathedral and Piccolomini Library which has an entrance inside the church.
• OPA Si Pass . This all-in pass is the most popular and best-value option. It gives you access to all the main places of the Siena Duomo Complex except the Gate of Heaven which requires a tour – see below.
• Porta del Cielo Pass . This pass includes everything covered by the OPA Si Pass as well as a guided tour of the Gate of Heaven (Porta del Cielo). Guided tours are timed and it’s best to book in advance. In the low season, you might be able to get a free spot on the day itself, but I wouldn’t count on it. In the summer, definitely book in advance. The Gate of Heaven tours run from 1 March until the first week of January (so basically almost the whole year except for a few weeks in winter).

The all-in passes include an audio guide via a QR code that you scan directly from your smartphone, so bring headphones if you want to use it.

The passes are valid for 3 consecutive days and you can only visit each place once. But you really don’t need more than 2-3 hours in order to see everything at Siena Cathedral anyway.

If you would like to learn more about all the amazing things that you get to see at the Duomo of Siena, you can also opt to visit the Cathedral as part of a guided tour .

However, keep in mind that most guided tours only include the Cathedral and the Piccolomini Library and not the other parts of the Duomo complex.

Here are some of the best walking city tours that – among others – also visit the Cathedral of Siena:

• City walking tour, including the Cathedral and Piccolomini Library . This is an excellent 2-hour tour to get the first introduction to the city and learn more about the Duomo of Siena.
• Private city tour with optional Cathedral visit . This is a 3-hour tour for just your personal group. It covers all the main sights in Siena and can also include a visit to the Cathedral if the option is chosen.

Just like pretty much any other major church in Italy, the Duomo of Siena asks you to dress modestly when visiting the church. As a general rule, this means that your knees and shoulders should be covered .

So shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless shirts or spaghetti straps are – in principle – not allowed inside the church.

That being said, if you are wearing normal-length shorts (just above your knees), it’s very unlikely that anyone will be bothered by that. It’s all about being respectfully dressed and not showing up there in your beach attire.

When we visited the Siena Cathedral recently, they also had some single-use covers that they were handing out to tourists whose shoulders weren’t covered. We even saw some people with VERY short shorts inside the church. It’s actually funny how they were asked to cover their shoulders, but not their legs.

My own family – husband and kids – all wore (normal length) shorts and sandals and I wore a knee-long summer dress with wide shoulder straps. I took a light shawl with me just in case they asked me to cover up, but it wasn’t needed.

TIP: If you are visiting Italy in the summer and are worried that your clothing might not be deemed appropriate to enter the church, it’s always helpful to carry a light, wide summer scarf/shawl with you. You can always wrap it around your shoulders or use it as a skirt.

READ ALSO: Best Cathedrals in Italy (+Practical tips for visiting Italian churches)

Visiting Siena Cathedral with Kids

In case you are wondering if it’s a good idea to visit the Siena Duomo with kids, here is some info and tips based on our experience.

The first time we visited Siena with kids, they were all just toddlers and were sitting in strollers. On that trip, we simply visited the Cathedral and the Piccolomini Library. Visiting all the other places with strollers would have been a bit more challenging. Also, young kids and long church/museum visits usually don’t go well together. So my recommendation for families with very young kids is to just visit the main church.

On our most recent visit to Siena, our kids were teenagers . This time, we visited the entire Siena Duomo complex. They were really impressed by the church and the magnificent interior. But what they enjoyed the most were the two places that involved stairs and nice views – Facciatone and the Gate of Heaven.

However, the wait time at Facciatone was so long that it was really getting too much even for teenagers. There was another family waiting in line with younger children (6-10 years old) , and they had difficulties keeping the kids quiet and motivated for such a long time.

So which parts of the Duomo complex to visit and how much time to spend everywhere really depends on your interests and your family situation. As a minimum, you can definitely visit the Duomo and the Piccolomini Library with children of any age.

Now that you know all the practicalities, here’s an overview of all the best places not to miss at the Siena Duomo Complex:

Siena Cathedral (Duomo)

The 13th-century Cathedral of Siena will be the highlight of your visit. Regarded as one of the best examples of Romanesque-Gothic architecture in Italy, the Duomo looks very striking, with its distinctive light and dark stripes on the exterior as well as on the columns inside the church. They are composed of white and very dark green marble – colors symbolic of the city.

The Cathedral’s interior is awesome, with every surface covered by some sort of ornate decoration or sculpture. These include beautiful works of art by the likes of Donatello and Michelangelo and exquisite frescoes over the main altar. The wooden choir is intricately carved and the octagonal pulpit is quite magnificent, inspired by ancient Roman sarcophagi.

Gazing up at the star-studded dome almost feels like getting a glimpse of heaven, whilst the inlaid-marble floor is especially breathtaking. Made up of 56 marble mosaics depicting various scenes, it is considered by many to be the masterpiece of the entire cathedral.

Good to know: Much of the Cathedral floors are covered to protect it from damage, although a couple of times a year it is fully uncovered (usually in the month of July, and from mid-August to mid-October). Alternating sections of the floor are always available to view, so you will definitely be able to see at least part of it during your visit.

Piccolomini Library

Step through the small door to the left of the Cathedral’s nave and you’ll be awed to discover the Piccolomini Library . This small room – built for Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini (who later became Pope Pius II) – is astonishing in its beauty.

Every inch is covered in an intricately detailed painting by the Renaissance master Pinturicchio and his assistants (who included the young Raphael!). In wonderfully vivid colors, it depicts 10 different scenes related to the life and career of Piccolomini.

The library was originally intended to conserve Piccolomini’s extensive collection of manuscripts. You can see the few that still remain, along with a stunning copy of The Three Graces sculpture in the center of the room. Be sure to look up, too, and admire the splendid ceiling which glows with golden details.

The Gate of Heaven (Porta del Cielo)

Another way to appreciate the spectacular beauty of the Siena Cathedral is to see it from above. The ‘ Gate of Heaven ’ tour allows you to do just that, by visiting the rafters of the Duomo. They also call this a tour of ‘Cathedral rooftops’.

You’ll start by ascending a rather steep, winding staircase of around 80 steps to the upper level, the attic of the cathedral if you like. From there, you’ll have almost a bird’s eye view of the church under your feet and its decorative floor, which looks even more amazing from high up.

You’ll also walk through various corridors and outdoor passages, alternately admiring the cathedral’s interior or the views of the terracotta rooftops across the city to the hills.

You’ll also get a chance to look through a mosaic window in the dome and see statues and decorative features that can’t be seen from the ground.

Good to know: As already mentioned before, the Gate of Heaven can only be visited with an official tour. It’s not that much of a tour actually – most of the time, you just follow the staff, and the explanation they give is quite limited.

If you want to visit the rafters of the Duomo, we highly recommend pre-booking it in advance. The ticket also includes all the other sites which you can visit before or after the tour on your own. For opening times and booking details, see here . Even in the peak summer months, we booked this tour just a day before our visit and there were still tickets available. But we were really flexible with our timing.

The Gate of Heaven tours run from March to the first week of January.

Cathedral Museum (Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana)

Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana is the Cathedral’s museum. It’s located in the right nave of the ‘New Cathedral’, an area originally intended to enlarge the main building. More about it – below.

Founded in 1869, Siena Cathedral Museum is one of the oldest private museums in Italy. Some of its most famous pieces are the altarpiece panel paintings of the Maestà, by Duccio di Buoninsegna .

This was originally a double-sided altarpiece, measuring an incredible 17 x 16 feet. Taken down and stored for two centuries, it was later disassembled by the city council and parts of it were sold. These can now be seen in important museums across the world. The majority of the Maesta, however, remained here in Siena.

Other treasures on display include 14th-century marble statues that once decorated the facade, along with the Madonna del Perdono Tondo. You can also see precious silk fabrics, jewelry, illuminated manuscripts, and a beautiful stained glass window that was once located above the apse of the Cathedral.

Good to know: While the museum is interesting, most people just rush through it and go straight to the top floor where you can access the terraces – see below.

New Duomo Panorama (Facciatone)

The ‘New Duomo’ is the unfinished part of the Siena Cathedral which was started with the intention to enlarge the church even more.

The construction started in 1339, but the emergence of the Black Death in 1348 prevented any further development. Up to this day, you can see the unfinished structure of this ‘New Cathedral’. After almost 7 centuries, I think it’s safe to say that they are not intending to finish it anymore.

This is now one of the most popular places to visit inside the Siena Duomo complex. This is because you can climb to the Facciatone , a viewing terrace that offers 360° panoramic views across Siena. It sits atop the unfinished facade of the ill-fated New Cathedral and is one of the best viewpoints in the city .

However, on busy days, visiting here requires a lot of patience. The staircase is quite narrow and twisty, only capable of accommodating traffic in one direction. So they only allow small groups of people at a time and the next ‘batch’ can only enter when the first one has left the upper level of the terrace.

As you can imagine, this means that there is usually a long wait in order to access this narrow terrace. When we visited, the queue was ‘not too bad’ – starting at the entrance of the last room of the museum. But even then, we waited for over 45 minutes. Based on the signage, we saw that the queue can get much longer than that. So if you are visiting here at an even busier time, it might mean that it takes several hours…

While we absolutely enjoyed our visit, we thought that the wait was borderline not worth it. I guess it all depends on how much time you have in Siena. If you are here in the quiet season, it’s probably not even an issue. But if you are visiting in the summer months, you may want to come here first thing in the morning and head straight to Facciatone. We visited about two hours before the closing time and by the time we left, they were telling people not to start queuing anymore or they wouldn’t be able to go up.

Baptistery of St John (Battisero di San Giovanni Battista)

Built from 1319 to 1325 near the base of the apse, the Cathedral’s baptistery has an unfinished marble facade but a spectacular interior.

It houses various works of art, including a series of beautiful frescoes by Renaissance artists and the triptych of the Madonna with Saints and Stories of Saint Stefano. You can also see a pulpit created by Nicola Pisano.

But the star of the show is the jaw-dropping baptismal font, which was created by some of the greatest sculptors of the era.

Hexagonal in shape, it features six gilded bronze panels recounting the life of John the Baptist. You can see Donatello’s infamous Feast of Herod, depicting the moment when the head of St. John the Baptist was delivered on a plate, plus the carved figures of Faith and Hope.

Good to know: The Baptistery is located at the northern end of the Cathedral and can only be accessed from the outside. For some reason, there are very few people here compared to the main facade at Piazza del Duomo where the main entrance of the cathedral can be found.

Crypt (Cripta del Duomo di Siena)

The Crypt is one of the most fascinating sites of Duomo di Siena, and it’s hard to believe that it was only discovered some 20 years ago! In fact, it’s considered one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the past decennia.

Located under the Duomo and accessible from the eastern side a bit past the Museum at the New Duomo, this underground crypt contains a cycle of paintings dating from the second half of the 13th century.

The colorful frescoes are incredibly well-preserved and absolutely stunning! In addition, you can see the foundations of the Cathedral structure dating back to the 12th-14th centuries.

Good to know: You only need a couple of minutes for a quick visit here – don’t miss it!

Oratory of San Bernardino

In addition to all the sights mentioned above, the all-in Duomo ticket also includes an entrance to the Oratory of San Bernardino . This is a museum focused on paintings from the Sienese school from the 13th century on.

However, while all the other places mentioned above are located just next to each other, the Oratory is on a different side of town, about 10-15 minutes walk away.

We still didn’t get there on our multiple visits to Siena, so I’m not sure if it’s really worth it. But if you have some time to spare and want to make the most out of your ticket, you can check it out too.

It’s really all about how much time you have in Siena. Because there is a lot more to see beyond the Duomo complex as well!

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Siena

So, this is our guide to visiting the Cathedral of Siena. I hope that it gives you a better idea of what to expect so that you can plan your visit accordingly.

Have a great time in Siena!

TIP:  You may also like to take a look at our other guides to the region:

• Most Beautiful Towns to Visit in Tuscany
• Best Things to Do in Montepulciano
• Tuscany Itinerary
• How to See Tuscany from One Central Location
• Best Things to Do in Florence
• 1 Day in Florence
• Florence Rooftops Guide
• Florence to Bologna: Travel Info & Itinerary
• Best Things to Do in Bologna
• Tips for Visiting Cinque Terre
• 1 Day in Cinque Terre
• Where to Stay in Cinque Terre
• Porto Venere
• Most Beautiful Towns of Italian Riviera
• More of Italy: See our Italy travel page for guides and travel itineraries for a big variety of popular destinations all over the country.

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• Siena Duomo

Siena's Beautiful Gothic Cathedral

The Duomo in Siena lies in a piazza above the  Piazza del Campo , a great Gothic building filled with treasures by Pisano , Donatello and Michelangelo as well as frescoes by Pinturicchio .

The exterior of the cathedral is pretty impressive, and if you don't have a lot of time in Siena, you might not even go inside and just enjoy the outside. Built between 1215 and 1263 on the site of an earlier structure, the cathedral is in the form of a Latin cross with a slight projecting dome and bell tower. The exterior and interiors are decorated in white and greenish-black marble in alternating stripes , black and white being the symbolic colors of Siena.

If you have time to visit the cathedral, you might be tempted to skip it once you realize you have to pay to get in... but it is certainly worth it and, with the pass, it's actually a great value! The pass gets you into the cathedral as well as the baptistery, crypt and Opera museum and is valid for 3 days so it most definitely worth the 10 euros!

What's that wall?

The Cathedral's Treasures

If you're visiting Siena after having visited Florence and its cathedral, you're in for a shock! While Florence's cathedral is immense and its cupola impressive, its interior is pretty spartan in comparison. In Siena, on the other hand, you don't know where to look. The columns continue the white/black marble striped motif and, if you look up, there are busts of past religious men of Siena looking down upon you. I recommend you take a special look at the pavement : the most impressive and beautiful of the treasures the cathedral holds are on the floor, where the pavement is decorated with the art of mosaics (using various techniques) to create storytelling masterpieces.

The 56 etched and inlaid marble panels were designed by 40 of leading artists between 1369 and 1547, all from Siena except for Bernardino di Betto, known as Pinturicchio who was Umbrian. Completion of the designs took six centuries, the last ones finished in the 1800s. Today, the mosaic panels in the nave and aisles are usually uncovered although protected from passing feet by barriers, but the most precious ones are under the apse and in the transepts and these are generally protected by special flooring since this is where people sit for mass; these are only uncovered in honor of the Palio and a pair of months during the year, often in September and October.

In the Duomo's center, the only floor panel that is usually visible is in the left transept which is Matteo di Giovanni's fantastic 1481 Massacre of the Innocents (a theme with which the painter was obsessed, leaving us disturbing paintings of it in Siena in both the Palazzo Pubblico and in Santa Maria dei Servi).

The oldest designs are those in the center near the entrance - the Wheel of Fortune and the Sienese Wolf Surrounded by Symbols of Allied Cities, which dates back to 1369 but which we know have been maintained and redone throughout the centuries when it wasn't customary to protect them. Some of them have parts that are pretty worn out. Each panel has its own story - we invite you to look all around the cathedral and find the ones that appeal to you the most and then go find out about the story in the panel by buying one of the small guides in the bookshop dedicated to the pavement.

More Riches

Don't miss St. John the Baptist by Donatello to the right after the Piccolomini Library, the rose window by Duccio di Buoninsegna , the marble pulpit by Nicola Pisano .

Works that belonged in the Cathedral

Ambrogio Lorenzetti, Presentation at the Temple , today in the Uffizi Gallery, Florence.

Pietro Lorenzetti, Birth of the Virgin , today in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo di Siena

Simone Martini e Lippo Memmi, Annunziation among the Saints Ansano and Margherita , today in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence

Duccio di Buoninsegna, Maestà del Duomo di Siena , parts in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo di Siena as well as other museums

Donatello, Madonna of Forgiveness , today in the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo di Siena

View photos of the Beautiful City of Siena! »

The Piccolomini Library

The other major treasure in the cathedral - there are too many to cite all - is the Piccolomini Library. What's a library doing in a cathedral? We've got a whole article dedicated to the Piccolomini Library so you can discover its history!

Info on Tickets

You can buy your tickets ahead of time through the OPA Call Center by calling +39 0577 286300. Operators are available in all languages to help you book your tickets, even just one day before your visit. A great deal is to buy the OPA Si Pass , an all-inclusive ticket which is essentially a "pass", valid for 3 days that allows access to the Cathedral and the Piccolomini Library, the Museo dell'Opera, Baptistery, Crypt, Oratory of San Bernardino and Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art. Rates vary according to the period of the year that you are visiting. Note that children under 11 enter the cathedral free but do pay for a pass.

If you want to book your Duomo (and Piccolomini Library) tickets ahead of time , our partner Italy-Tickets.com sells them online (and from which we receive a small commission, thank you for your support!). You can use the booking box below to check the cost for the date of your visit and book directly with them right now !

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Related Sections

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• Tuscany Museums
• What to Do in Siena
• art & culture
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• what to see

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Address: Piazza del Duomo

Opening hours (including the Piccolomini Library)

March 1 - November 2: 10:30 - 18:00 November 1 - February 28: 10:30 - 17:30 December 26 - January 6: 10:30 - 18:00 Sundays throughout the year: Sundays 13:30-17:30 Special opening hours on holy days, such as Christmas and day of Palio, August 16 -- check the official site for updated hours

Varies on time of year, from free for children to 5 or 8 euro for adults (online bookings have an additional fee) for just the Duomo. Free for local residents.

Ticket options

There are tickets for families as well as cumulative tickets (OPA Si Pass) for visiting the cathedral along with other of the main monuments around the Duomo.

Buying Tickets

Buy your OPA SI pass through the official Duomo OPA Call Center at +39 0577 286300, online through our partner Florence-Tickets.com or book a walking tour of Siena which includes entrance to the Duomo !

If you need more information, check out the official site http://operaduomo.siena.it/en/

Mass on weekdays: 10am in the Madonna del Voto Chapel; while the pavement is uncovered, mass is hel d in the Church of SS Annunziata.

Duomo of Siena Top Tours

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Author: Lourdes Flores

I'm from California but have called Florence my home for over a decade. I love to explore Italy; it is a lot of fun to try to see everything like I'm seeing it for the first time, keeping you, our readers, always in mind. I enjoy sharing what I know and helping others as they make their travel plans for Tuscany through our Forum . If you have itinerary-related questions, please post them there!

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Highlights & Hidden Gems of Siena Private Tour - Duomo Included

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• Il Campo, 1, 53100 Siena SI, Italy Piazza del Campo under the tower Torre del Mangia
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• You'll start at Il Campo, 1 Il Campo, 1, 53100 Siena SI, Italy Piazza del Campo under the tower Torre del Mangia See address & details
• 1 Duomo di Siena Stop: 30 minutes - Admission included See details
• 2 Biblioteca Piccolomini Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 3 Piazza del Campo Stop: 30 minutes See details
• 4 Siena Stop: 90 minutes See details
• You'll end at Siena 53100 Siena, Province of Siena, Italy S.Spirito square See address & details

• carolaH5532JE 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Unforgettable My parents have never been to Europe and this was their first time having a private tour of anything. They were blown away by the personal touch you get when you have someone talking to you and with you vs. in a microphone with a group of 30. We saw those groups, and we cringed because it looked impersonal and like cattle. We loved that Stefania sat down with us and had conversations about Florentine culture. She made it feel like we were long lost friends reconnecting. My parents are SOLD on private tours and now they have realized the benefit they provide. The timing of the tour was perfect for families and we devoured all the goodies that were provided. Read more Written September 19, 2021
• thomasmkroeber 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Lovely Stephanie was an excellent guide, leading us to the places of actual locals, she was clearly a knowledgeable guide and just a comfortable person to be around. Thank you! Read more Written November 28, 2019
• Cindy A 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles We loved Elisabetta! Our first morning in Florence was a food tour with Elisabetta and it was the PERFECT way to learn a little about the city and the amazing food! She was so welcoming, good with our children and the food was delicious! We still dream about the sandwich in the Florence market - amazing!! Read more Written August 4, 2019
• nate_haze_grey 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Family food tour Christy was great! Knowledgable and friendly. Speaks perfect English as an expat, but very familiar with the city having lived there so long. She was also great with our little kids, who very quickly were drawn to her warm style. She added the little extras that make all the difference for kids as well. We highly recommend her! Only thing we would change is making the time block longer. Read more Written June 11, 2019
• SDTA2019 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles A fun and delicious gastronomic experience! Our guide (Sara) took our family of 4 to experience a number of delicious local delicacies! We really enjoyed getting to learn about the food itself and the culture surrounding it from a local directly. Sara was friendly and really knowledgeable! We really enjoyed ourselves! Read more Written May 10, 2019
• louisesK448DT 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing! I booked this tour with my two children (8,9) and couldn't have picked better. Gianni was so helpful and informative and pitched it perfectly for the children. We learnt loads and tried so many delicious treats. It was a public holiday and super busy and he even phoned a restaurant to open for us as we couldn't get in anywhere else. He added extra food and wine and was honestly so friendly and fun. We've been on quite a few tours before but this was by far the best. The extra details, effort and time make Gianni the best host we've ever had. Don't hesitate to book, you will love it Read more Written April 30, 2019
• DMCMD15 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fantastic: Food Tour in Florence with Christy! Christy was an amazing tour guide! We are a family of 4 (kids ages 8 & 9) and chose the kid friendly Taste of Florence tour. Christy was the perfect choice for our family. She is so knowledgeable about the city, has relationships with the best restaurants/bakeries/wine shops/gelato stores, and my kids loved her! Christy truly brought Florence to life for us! The experience of popping in and out of a variety of different eateries would not have been possible without her and Christy really cares about the local shops and the people that work there. Our favorite was seeing an amazing wine cellar in the basement of a local wine store during our wine tasting! Amazing host and I highly recommend seeing and eating your way through Florence with Christy! Read more Written January 3, 2019

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Highlights & Hidden Gems of Siena Private Tour - Duomo Included provided by Withlocals Private Tours in Siena

Ultimate Guide To The Siena Cathedral Complex, An Art-Filled Gothic Wonder

Planning a visit to Siena? Here’s my guide to visiting the Siena Cathedral complex. The cathedral is the top attraction in Siena and a true haven for art lovers.

Siena Cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Assumption and the Duomo. It might as well be nicknamed the Siena Art Museum, it’s so stuffed with Italian masterpieces.

Siena Cathedral is one of Europe’s most beautiful churches, especially for lovers of all things Gothic. It’s the symbol of Siena Italy, clad all over in Siena’s trademark white and dark green marble.

Consistent with the Gothic ethos that “more is always better,” every inch is decorated with marble, mosaics, sculptures, and frescos.

Visiting Siena’s Duomo complex is almost like going to an art museum. It’s filled with mind blowing art from some of the greatest artists of the Gothic and early Renaissance periods, including Donatello, Pisano, Pinturicchio, and Michelangelo.

The Duomo complex consists of six must visit structures: the cathedral itself, the Piccolomini Library, the Baptistry, the cathedral museum (Museo dell’Opera del Duomo), the Crypt, and the Facciatone viewing terrace.

This guide tells you everything you need to know about Siena’s Duomo complex — its history, what to see inside, and how to get tickets.

Short History of Siena Cathedral

Siena Cathedral has a long non-linear history. Construction began in 1226, led by artist and architect Giovanni Pisano.

It continued off and on for 176 years. Following a long standing Tuscan tradition, the cathedral is dedicated to Saint Mary of the Assumption, whom the city of Siena “married.”

As befitting a grand edifice, the Siena Cathedral was built on Sienna’s highest hill. It was built back to front, as is typical in cathedral building. That way, the altar at the back could be used for mass while construction proceeded.

The cathedral was built with brick. Then frosted with alternating stripes of white and dark green marble. Though the marble appears black, it’s not. It’s green marble that has oxidized over time.

When Siena’s city state rival, Florence, began building the enormous Florence Cathedral, Siena grew jealous. In the middle ages, the length of a cathedral was tantamount to the height of a skyscraper. Size mattered.

To outdo Florence, Siena sought to “build the largest cathedral in all of Tuscany.” So Siena began building a brand new cathedral called Duomo Nuovo that would have doubled the size of the existing cathedral.

The existing church was to become part of the transept of the bigger and better structure. Siena had grand plans, designing a 140 meter long cathedral. The city worked on it for nine years, extending the cathedral to 80 meters.

But then, in 1348, a not so minor catastrophe called the black death struck. Construction came to a grinding halt. People were too busy dying to build anything. Siena’s fatality rate was 50% or more.

In 1355, Siena turned its attention back to the abandoned project. They consulted a Florentine architect named Francesco Talenti, would eventually become head architect of Florence Cathedral.

Perhaps being a tad biased, Talenti advised them to tear down what they’d built. Siena deliberated for 2 years and eventually took his advice.

All that’s left of the planned New Cathedral is the “ugly facade,” called the Facciatone. The towering marble arches mark the outline of the planned nave, reflecting the enormity of Siena’s grandiose vision.

Facade of Siena Cathedral

Siena Cathedral is categorized as a Italian Romanesque-Gothic structure. The facade was built in two stages. The lower facade, with gargoyles galore, was built between 1284-1317. The upper facade was built in 1376, inspired by Orvieto Cathedral .

The lower part of the facade has three portals, topped with pediments. In the middle portal, is the sun.

Above the portals is a beautiful rose window showing The Last Supper . On the top, in the upper triangle, is a mosaic depicting the Coronation of the Virgin . The mosaic is crowned with an angel.

The entire facade is decorated with sculptures carved by Giovanni Pisano — saints, beasties, oxen, gargoyles, and the like. There are 35 statues of prophets grouped around the Virgin Mary. The originals were moved into the cathedral museum in 1869 and replaced by copies.

You may feel satisfied just to admire the facade of Siena Cathedral. But don’t be tempted to skip the entry fee. It’s essential to go inside.

Tickets & Tours Of Siena Cathedral

Siena Cathedral is a popular activity. You’ll want to book a skip the line ticket online . You can also book a walking tour of Siena that includes the cathedral . Or click  here  for an amazing private guided tour of the cathedral.

To see the entire complex, you need to purchase the Opa Si Pass  in advance. That pass gives you access to the different parts of the complex — the Duomo, the Baptistery, the Piccolomini Library, the Facciatone viewing terrace, and the Duomo Museum.

If you are visiting from Florence, you can book a small group guided day tour that includes San Gimignano or a private tour of the two towns .

Guide To The Siena Cathedral Complex

Siena Cathedral is dramatic and richly decorated. If you’ve just visited the Duomo in Florence , you’ll be shocked. Siena Cathedral is much grander in style inside. Art history’s superheroes all contributed master works.

The towering columns are made of striped marble. The use of “zebra” stripes was introduced by merchants returning from the Middle East.

There’s masterpieces at every turn inside the cathedral. Let’s take it one Italian art treasure at a time. As you enter, the busts of 172 popes look down on you.

Here’s what you can’t miss inside Siena Cathedral:

1. Inlaid Marble Floor

The floor! Nothing prepares you for its grandeur. Many art historians consider the marble floor the master work of Siena Cathedral.

The floor took 6 centuries to complete. Artist and art historian Giorgio Vasari described it as “the most beautiful, largest and most magnificent floor that was ever made.”

There are 56 etched and inlaid marble panels telling biblical and mythological stories. They were designed and created by the leading artists of the time, including Pinturicchio (known for his frescos in the Borgia Apartments of the Vatican Museums ).

The oldest designs are near the entrance, the Wheel of Fortune and the Sienese Wolf Surrounded by Symbols of Allied Cities . The most famous panel is Matteo di Giovanni’s 15th century Massacre of the Innocents , near the pulpit. Also look for Pinturicchio’s History of Fortune or Hill of Virtue .

The panels are roped off to ensure their protection. Some are only on display in the summer months, when the fee for the cathedral increases.

2. Presbytery

The presbytery, or chancel, is dominated by the large marble altar carved by Baldassare Peruzzi in 1532. The angels in upper section were carved by Franceso di Giorgio Martini.

The apse frescoes were painted by various 16th and 17th century artists, Unfortunately, some were poorly repaired in the 19th century.

36 of the wooden choir stalls remain from the original 90, dating from 1363 to 1397. Behind the stalls are highly decorative inlaid panels by renowned wood carver Fra Giovanni da Verona, from 1503.

The inlays were originally made for an abbey. But they were so beautiful that the archbishop of Siena ordered them to be moved to the cathedral in 1813.

3. Nicola Pisano Pulpit

Nicola Pisano created this famous pulpit between 1265-68, 5 years after the one he created for the Siena Baptistry. He was helped by his son Giovanni and Florentine architect Arnolfo de Cambio.

This pulpit is much more ornate than the Baptistry’s, in keeping with the over the top Gothic style of the cathedral.

The pulpit is octagonal in shape and inspired by ancient Roman sarcophagi. It’s adorned with marble relief sculptures depicting the life of Jesus.

It’s propped up on nine columns made of granite, porphyry, and green marble. Four of the columns rest on lions.

This is Pisano’s most important work. It’s significant because it marked the transition from the Gothic period to the early Renaissance.

4. The Chigi Chapel: Bernini Sculptures

The Chigi Chapel was commissioned by Pope Alexander VII, a Chigi family member. Built in 1659-62, it’s in the Roman Baroque style and designed by the greatest Baroque sculptor in history Gian Lorenzo Bernini .

It’s rare to see any Bernini work outside of Rome .

But there are two beautiful marbles sculptures in the niches flanking the entrance to the Chigi Chapel: St. Jerome and a rapturous St. Mary Magdalene in Mystical Ecstacy . They represent the chapel’s theme of forgiveness and penitence.

St. Jerome is portrayed embracing the cross of Jesus, almost like a violin. This larger than life size sculpture shows a surprisingly fit Jerome with a friendly lion at his feet. You feel a sense of love exuding from the statue.

Mary Magdalene is depicted in the midst of a powerful religious experience, similar to some of Bernini’s sculptures in Rome. Like those, she conveys a sense of movement and emotion.

There’s also a famous painting, the Madonna del Voto , in the center of the altar.

Reputedly, soldiers prayed to the crowned madonna before the Battle of Montaperti, which was essentially Siena’s July 4th victory. She’s framed by sculptures crafted by Bernini’s workshop.

The painting was/is thought to be miraculous. It’s surrounded by silver and gold tribute hearts on the surrounding walls of the chapel.

5. Michelangelo Sculptures on the Piccolomini Altar

The Piccolomini Altar is in the left nave of the cathedral. The altar was commissioned by Francesco Piccolomini to be his tomb.

But after being elected pope, he was buried in the Vatican. Made of Cararra marble, it was built between 1481-85 by sculptor Andrea Bregno.

In the following decade, four lower niches were added to house four marble sculptures made by a young Michelangelo. One of them, St. Paul , may be a self-portrait of the artist.

They’re not his best work, but still worth a look. It’s Michelangelo , after all.

6. Donatello Sculpture in the Chapel of St. John the Baptist

Siena Cathedral is home to the bronze St. John the Baptist sculpture by Donatello. It’s located in the Chapel of St. John the Baptist in the north transept, which also sports Pinturicchio frescos.

The sculpture was relocated from Florence to Sienna. It was the wish of Donatello , the greatest sculptor of the early Renaissance.

Clad in his usual rags, St. John the Baptist appears in agony, with a haggard face and sunken eyes. The sculpture has a funny backstory.

It arrived in Siena without a right forearm. Legend holds that Donatello may have left it incomplete when he wasn’t paid in full. Or it might have broken off in transit.

The chapel allegedly holds a relic, the arm of St. John the Baptist. But so many churches claim so many bits and pieces of the popular saint, it’s probably not there.

There are other Donatello treasures in the cathedral. He crafted a sculpture for the Door of Forgiveness on the facade of the south transept. His Madonna del Perdono is in the Duomo museum and his sculptures decorate the baptismal font in the Baptistry. More on that below.

7. Hexagonal Dome

The hexagonal dome is full of golden stars representing the kingdom of heaven.

It preceded Brunelleschi’s famous dome on Florence Cathedral . The dome is perched on back and white striped pillars.

It has a cornice of popes painted by Guiidoccio Cozzrelli and Benevuntio di Giovanni in the 15th century. A gilded lantern at the top, added by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, gives the effect of a golden sun beaming down.

8. Piccolomini Library

Halfway down the nave, you’ll find the magical Piccolomini Library. It’s akin to visiting Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel in the Vatican Museums .

The library is dedicated to one of Siena’s hometown boys, Enea Silvio Piccolomini. He gained prominence by negotiating a truce between Emperor Frederick III and the papal state.

In 1458, Enea became Pope Pius II. The library was built in 1492 by his nephew, a man who became Pope Pius III. Quite the illustrious family.

The library was intended to house valuable manuscripts. They never made it to the library. But there are now a few samples in glass cases to evoke the original intention of the library.

Instead, the library is famed for its vivid frescos creates by Pinturicchio and his workshop.

That workshop included a young Raphael, who would go on to create the stunning Raphael Rooms in the Vatican and become Rome’s premiere artist.

The walls are divided into 10 scenes, framed by painted architecture. They represent the stages of Enea’s’ life — ambassador, bishop, cardinal, pope. The ceiling is a stunner, painted in blue, red, and gold fanciful grotesque figures.

In the middle of the room is a copy of the ancient Roman sculptural grouping, The Three Graces , from the 4th to 2nd century BC.

For more information, here’s my complete guide to the Piccolomini Library .

9. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo

The Museo dell’Opera del Duomo in Siena is found in the right nave of the New Cathedral, the area that was intended to enlarge Siena Cathedral. It houses one of Italy’s most famous paintings.

On the ground floor, there’s a vast collection of 14th century marble statues carved by Giovanni Pisano. Originally, they decorated the facade, but were taken into the museum for conservation. The sculptures depict sibyls, prophets and philosophers of antiquity.

There’s also a noted Donatello tondo, called the Madonna del Perdono . And Bernini’s Golden Rose .

Duccio di Buoninsegna contributes a gorgeous stained glass window. It was once in the cathedral above the apse. The 30 square meter work depicts the burial, assumption, and the crowning of the virgin.

But the absolute highlight of the museum is Duccio’s Maesta . Maesta is the most famous Italian painting from the International Gothic period and the most precious art work ever created in Siena. It’s a famous painting in the course of art history.

The Maesta was 17 x 16 feet, a massive double sided altarpiece covered in gold and glitter. It was so large it likely served as a rood screen for the cathedral, separating the laity from the common folk.

When Gothic art fell out of fashion during the Renaissance, the altarpiece was taken down and stored for 200 years. Then, the city council disassembled and sold off some pieces. Many are in the world’s most prominent museums. But most of the Maesta is still in Siena.

In the front portion of the Maesta , you see a majestic Mary seated on a throne. Swaddled in translucent drapery, Jesus looks nothing like a baby. More like a wise old man, who’s almost standing up.

In the back, you see the life of Christ. In a way, this was the more astonishing and privileged view that the priest would’ve had. The Crucifixion scene is given pride of place in the center.

Finally, the top floor of the museum hosts a rich collection of paintings, including the famous Madonna of the Large Eyes . The painting was formerly in the cathedral.

It’s one of the oldest paintings of the Sienese school, created by the Maestro di Tressa in the 13th century. In the painting, Mary’s arms extend out of the painting to accept the keys to the city of Sienna.

From the museum, you can climb to the Facciatone. It’s a panoramic viewing terrace on a remnant of the abandoned new cathedral.

It offers beautiful views of Siena. But if the cathedral is crowded, it can be a cramped experience. The stairs only allow one way traffic.

10. Sienna Baptistry

Usually baptistries are built in the front of a cathedral, as is the case of the Baptistery in Florence . But there was insufficient room in front of Siena Cathedral.

So they put the baptistry in the back and under the cathedral. The baptistry was built quickly from 1319-25.

The Baptismal Font stands in the center of the building.

It was a collaboration among artistic luminaries, including Ghiberti, Diovani di Turino, Donatello, and Jacopo della Quercia. It shows the life of (who else?) John the Baptist.

The most beautiful and famous piece is the Feast of Herod by Donatello. It’s one of the first examples of two point perspective in art, with high and low reliefs that give a convincing illusion of space.

The panel tells a horrific bible story. King Herod ordered an assassin to bring him the head of St. John the Baptist.

You see the head on a plate, with people cringing in revulsion. Donatello also carved the figures of Faith and Hope on the baptismal font.

There’s also another pulpit by Nicola Pisano in the Baptistry. But it’s much less elaborate than the one in the cathedral. The Baptistry frescos are by Vecchietta and his workshop, from 1447-50.

11. Crypt: New Discoveries

To get to the Crypt, go around the outside of the right transept and through a door in the first bay of the unfinished New Cathedral. Halfway down the steps on the first landing is an area known as the Crypt.

However, it’s not really a crypt. It was originally an antechamber for the priests before the Baptistry was built.

In 1990, it was given a cleaning and rubble was dug out. The archaeologists made a stunning discovery — a cycle of frescos from the mid 1200s. They’re in a poor state of preservation. But you can still their vivid colors.

The best frescos are in the main room, with New Testament scenes of the Annunciation, Visitation, Nativity, Crucifixion, etc. Scholars are still trying to determine who painted what in the room.

Tickets For The Siena Cathedral Complex

As I mentioned above, the best way to see all the treasures of the Siena Cathedral complex is to purchase the Opa Si Pass online. The pass is an all inclusive 3 day ticket to the entire complex that gives you skip the line access.

Because it’s a 3 day pass, you can take your time visiting the sites. But one thing to be aware of is that you only get a single entry to each site.

So if, for example, you head up the museum steps to the Facciatoni, you can’t go back the next day to admire the art works in the museum. You’ll have used your single entry.

If you don’t need a 3 day pass, click here to book a skip the line ticket to the complex.

There’s also a Porta del Cielo All Inclusive Pass, or Gate to Heaven Pass , for 20 euros. This includes a tour through the best views of the interior of the cathedral, the inside of the dome, as well as a wonderful view of Siena from the exterior of the cupola.

If you just want to see the cathedral itself and not the other Duomo sites, you’ll pay € 6. From August 18 to October 24, when all the marble floor mosaics are uncovered, the cost is € 8. If you want to add on just the Piccolomini Libray, it’s another € 3. The crypt is also € 8.

Practical Information & Tips for Visiting the Siena Cathedral Complex

Address : Piazza del Duomo 8. It’s only a stone’s throw away from the iconic Piazza del Campo.

Hours : Daily from 10:30 am to 7:30 pm &  9:30 am to 6:00 pm on Sundays and public holidays. The museum opens at 10:00 am, so you might visit there first.

Because of large crowds, try to avoid visiting the cathedral on Sundays and holidays. Also be sure to dress conservatively. Shorts aren’t advisable and shoulders should be covered. If you’re not wearing appropriate attire, you may be given a “modesty cloak.”

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to Siena Cathedral. You may enjoy these other Italy travel guides and resources:

• 2 days in Siena itinerary
• 3 day itinerary for Florence
• Best day trips from Florence
• 10 day itinerary for Tuscany
• 10 day itinerary for Italy
• 1 2 ways to spend 1 week in Italy
• 10 day itinerary from Milan to Rome
• 1 week itinerary from Venice to Milan
• 30 beautiful towns in Italy
• 100+ Italy bucket list experiences
• Tips for visiting Italy
• Historic landmarks in Italy

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Last Updated on April 6, 2023 by Leslie Livingston

Private Siena Walking Tour with Duomo

What to expect

Explore the picturesque medieval streets and alleyways of the beautiful Tuscan city of Siena with an expert guide.

Famous for the dramatic Palio horse race that takes place biannually in the central Piazza del Campo, Siena dates back to the 9th century BC as an Etruscan settlement. Today, Siena’s 17 historic ‘contrade’ or districts extend out from the Piazza, which is home to the town hall, Palazzo Pubblico, and the Torre del Mangia.

Walk down atmospheric alleyways, onto sunny piazzas, and pass by many gothic churches. Stop in at Basilica di San Domenico to see its majestic interior and the relics of Saint Catherine.

Your walking tour of the city culminates with skip-the-line access to the Cathedral of Siena – famous for its stunning facade, marbled floors, and intricate mosaics with masterpieces by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini.

Why book this tour?

• Enjoy a private walking tour of Siena, a medieval Tuscan city
• See Piazza del Campo, famous for the Palio horse races
• Wander along narrow streets, back alleys and past medieval houses
• See the imposing gothic Basilica San Domenico
• Marvel at the splendor of the Duomo, designed in part and decorated by Michelangelo

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Read more about your Private Siena Walking Tour

Siena is a charming city that rivaled Florence for its wealth, beauty, and artistry in the medieval period. In the 16th century, Florence conquered Siena and it was absorbed into the Duchy of Tuscany. Today it is famous for its medieval architecture, brick houses, magnificent churches and basilicas, and winding alleyways leading to sunny piazzas.

Your private tour begins in the central Piazza del Campo, where you’ll meet your local guide in front of Fonte Gaia, the monumental fountain with beautiful friezes.

The Piazza del Campo was constructed around the 13th-14th century during Siena’s Golden Age of art and architecture. It hosts the famousPalio horse race twice a year on the 2nd of July and the 16th of August. Il Palio is a dramatic bareback horse race in which jockeys from 10 of the 17 contrade or districts compete for victory.

The square is surrounded by the medieval Torre del Mangia, which boasts fabulous views over the city and surrounding countryside, and the grand Palazzo Pubblico which serves as the town hall.

From here, the 17 districts of Siena fan out. You’ll adventure down quiet alleys, and charming streets, pass by atmospheric gothic churches, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere created by the waiters standing outside their trattorias, and the chattering thrum of passers-by.

You’ll see the thick city walls and intimidating iron gates, pass the famous Headquarters of Monti dei Paschi di Siena, one of the oldest banks in Europe, and stop to look inside the imposing Basilica di San Domenico. This medieval gothic church is also known locally as Santa Caterina as it houses the relics of Saint Catherine of Siena.

Lastly, enjoy skip-the-line access to Siena’s Duomo – a truly magnificent cathedral built of dramatic white and black marble, gothic spires, and a vast bell tower called the Facciatone. Inside you’ll marvel at its intricate golden mosaics, marbled floors, spectacular dome, and impressive art by three of Italy’s most famous artists: Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini.

This Tour Includes

• Private guide
• Duomo tickets
• Walking tour
• Highlights of Siena

Know before you go

• Places of worship have strict dress code requirements for entry. All participants are required to have shoulders and knees covered (no tank tops or short dresses) to enter.
• Tours run rain or shine. We recommend coming prepared if rainy weather is expected. 

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LivTours’ group size of max 6 participants is and always has been based on sustainable travel, and we are proud to be at the forefront of change and innovation in the industry.   LivTours is committed to providing travelers with truly sustainable tours with the lowest possible environmental impact, all while supporting the local industries and people of each unique destination. To learn more about how you can actively support sustainable tourism  and how LivTours is contributing, click here .

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When you book a LivTours Private Tour or Experience , you are guaranteed a dedicated, expert guide that allows you the flexibility to start your tour at a time which is convenient for you, making planning easy. Our private tours ensure that you will get a tailored experience to meet all your needs so we go at your pace, perfect for families with younger children, elderly, or individuals with accessibility needs. Please be advised that all private tours begin at a base price starting at two people* . Prices are inclusive of entry tickets where applicable.  *Some Ferrari private experiences are inclusive of one person only.

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Siena, one of our most favorite towns!

When speaking of the smaller hilltop towns in the Italian countryside, I think our two most favorite are Assisi and Siena. Both are packed with history and tradition and both still retain the flavour of times long ago. Our walking tour in Siena with LivTours was just perfect! We were given so much information about the town from our local guide, who's love and passion for her town was evident in everything she showed us. Her enthusiasm was contagious and we went away feeling that we had had a most memorable experience. Thanks LivTours!

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By selecting Choose Dates Later / Buy as Gift at booking, any tour can be purchased without fixed dates. This is the perfect option if you want to purchase your tour as a gift for a loved one, or if you are in the pre-planning phase of your vacation. After booking, you will receive a Travel Voucher Code and full instructions on how to schedule your tours when ready. Once your travel plans are confirmed, you can easily use the Travel Voucher Code on the LivTours website to formally schedule your tours. You can find out more here .

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5 tips for visiting the siena cathedral, frequently asked questions, what’s special about siena cathedral, what’s the gate of heaven, what’s inside the museo dell’ opera, how much time should i plan for a trip to the cathedral complex, should i take a guided tour, can i attend mass in the cathedral, general information, opening hours, how to get there.

Best Siena Day Tours from Florence – Everything You Need to Know for a Full Experience

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Cobbled pathways leading to ancient walls … Streets where, when looking up, the tips of buildings all appear like castles melting into various hues of Tuscan terra cotta; and home to collections of influential Sienese Renaissance art, the best Siena day tours from Florence leave hearts full.

For indecisive travelers who can’t decide between staying in Florence or Siena, not to fear when you have the option of a daytime adventure.

Home of Italy’s famous horse race, Palio di Siena, there are not many cities you can say you’ve entered through an escalator, walked in an undulating shell-shaped plaza and moseyed among the frescoes inside a former-hospital-turned-majestic-cathedral! Welcome to Siena!

Overflowing with medieval landmarks, incredible food specialties (especially the cured meat kind) and great shopping (quite more than the usual Tuscan towns), a trip to this special destination is one of the most memorable if you’re searching for unique things to do in Florence beyond its city walls.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Siena day tours from Florence

How to get to Siena from Florence?

Italy’s 12th largest city is located in central Italy, established as part of the Siena region. Forming part of the Toscana countryside, Siena is 78 kilometers from the center of Tuscany’s capital city.

Once you arrive, enter the city using its famed escalators or walk the longer way into Siena.

It takes just over an hour to reach Siena from Florence via car, and there are multiple routes that you can drive: the scenic route or the highway.

Traveling via Raccordo Autostradale Firenze – Siena (RA03) is the fastest option, and you will go through a toll on the highway. From Via Giovanni Agnelli/SP127, merge onto A1/E35, eventually joining onto Raccordo Autostradale Firenze – Siena. Take the exit for Siena Ovest toward Siena Ovest/Centro. Once nearing the city, park at one of the free or paid parking spaces.

The scenic way along the Chiantigiana road (also known as the SR 222) adds about 30 minutes to an hour more to your journey, taking the backroads through Chianti instead and skipping the tolls.

Traveling from Florence to Siena by train is a 1.5 to two-hour journey, and none of the high-speed trains run through Siena. Trenitalia (the regional train) operates between the two cities multiple times a day, and the direct line departs from the Firenze Santa Maria Novella train station.

By organized tour

Enjoy a convenient expedition with round-trip transfers from Florence to Siena via private vehicle. Exit your hotel and hop into a private minivan, or meet your tour operator at a designated departure point in Firenze (tour dependent).

Certain tour buses include onboard wifi, and your mode of transport varies depending on your tour operator as well, from minivans for small groups to coaches for larger traveling parties.

Is a day tour to Siena worth it?

Absolutely! Built across three hills, Siena dates back to the Etruscans, and entering its painstakingly preserved medieval walls is like stepping back in time! There are no cars within its old town, and cobbled roads lead the way.

A deemed UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1995 for its historical and cultural significance, its historic center hosts the famous bi-annual Palio horse race within the Piazza del Campo — which it has done since 1656!

Home to the oldest bank in the world, it remains one of the country’s most revered towns. Split into 17 contradas (districts), the museums, Gothic architectural masterpieces and ancient art history are tenfold.

What are the main attractions to visit in Siena?

Piazza del campo.

Stepping inside the grand-scale Piazza del Campo really makes you feel small, and appears more like an amphitheater than a town square. Dating to the 13th century, this shell-shaped public square is one of Europe’s most renowned thanks to its design, size and historical importance (and the city’s Palio di Siena takes place here).

Smack bang in the middle of the UNESCO-listed historical center, many of the town’s buildings are built around the piazza, including restaurants and a few souvenir shops. Crowds gather, snapping countless photographs or breaking on the sidelines to enjoy a schiacciata (Sienese flatbread).

Siena’s most famous landmarks (like the Duomo) are all within walking distance to Piazza del Campo, with the marble Fonte Gaia fountain right in the middle of the square at the one end. Surrounding its perimeters are the Palazzo Pubblico, Torre del Mangia and Cappella di Piazza, also called the Chapel of the Virgin.

Piazza del Duomo

Home to the Duomo di Siena (also called the Siena Cathedral , or more accurately, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta), the Piazza del Duomo is one of the most bustling spaces in Siena.

The cathedral masterpiece of Romanesque-Gothic architecture houses some of Siena’s most acclaimed artworks dating back centuries (including works by Donatello and Michelangelo), and fascinatingly, was originally built for the opera — which it still hosts.

Its construction took place between 1215 and 1263.

Even from its facade, you can appreciate its stylistic design, with three doors, exterior artwork, and its famous stained glass window on the upper half of the building.

Torre del Mangia

Towering 87 meters toward the Tuscan sun, the Torre del Mangia is a hotspot for sweeping in vistas across Siena, climbing 400-odd steps to reach the top of this tower.

Constructed between 1338 and 1348, the red-brick landmark forms part of the Palazzo Pubblico, i.e., the city town hall (built between 1297 and 1325).

Its height was purposefully chosen in line with Siena’s Duomo, signifying equal importance between the people of Siena and the church. Not common at the time, it became one of Italy’s tallest secular towers.

Since then, many other world-famous towers have taken inspiration, modeling monuments in the UK and USA after the Torre del Mangia.

The Piccolomini Library

Is it an art gallery or an other-worldly library? Dedicated to Pope Pius II (who was head of the Catholic Church until 1464), stepping inside the Piccolomini Library is pretty awe-inspiring.

Expressing the life and work of the pope through ten illustrated frescoes, there are also sculptural pieces and manuscripts to investigate within its colorful, stylized walls.

It was only after Pius II’s passing that the library was set up in his honor, and it’s situated within the Duomo. The archbishop of Siena at the time, Cardinal Francesco Todeschini Piccolomini, was in charge of the library’s construction, working on the painted biography with his students, including Raphael!

Pinacoteca Nazionale (National Gallery)

Between the 13th and 14th centuries, art in Italy boomed, particularly in Siena.

The National Gallery, also known as Pinacoteca Nazionale , is housed within the Palazzo Buonsignori, and this is where artworks from this period (including a collection extending from the 12th to 16th centuries) are displayed.

The National Gallery was established in 1932 with three levels worth of collections to explore.

The first floor is dedicated to 16th-century artists, highlighting the Sienese Mannerism style. The second floor chronicles the foundations of Sienese art until the 15th century, including works by Simone Martini, Duccio and Giovanni di Paolo.

On the third level, uncover the Spannocchi-Piccolomini Collection, comprising 15th and 16th-century pieces from northern Italian, Dutch, German and Flemish artists.

Get your fix of Siena’s art, history and culture through the various museums.

One of the most important to the city is the Museo Civico, located on the first floor of the town hall. Amble through rooms (like the Risorgimento Hall, the Cardinals Room, the Concistoro Room and the World Map Room) and corridors expressing the history of Siena and admire art from the last couple of centuries.

Headed up inside the regal Palazzo Piccolomini is the Biccherne Museum, which is dedicated to the State Archives. Rumble through ancient records relating to the municipality of Siena, including 103 13th-century painted wooden panels called the ‘Tavolette di Biccherna.’

The Natural History Museum of the Accademia dei Fisiocritici is set up across two floors within an ancient monastery. Covering categories such as zoology, geology, anatomy, botany and curiosities, explore collections of natural and historical specimens relative to the area.

Transforming the city’s former hospital into the Museum Complex Santa Maria della Scala in Siena, this institute is found in front of the Duomo. Spend time meandering through the halls and rooms of both permanent and temporary exhibitions, filled with frescoes and art history.

If you’ve got the guts for it, enter the Museum of Torture Siena . Step back to medieval times when corporal punishment reigned supreme. Initiated underground near Piazza del Campo, see how the unfortunate met their fate, with instruments on display like torture chairs and water torture contraptions.

Santuario Di Santa Caterina Da Siena

Honoring Saint Catherine of Siena (canonized in 1461 for her work in Italian papal and political matters), Santuario Di Santa Caterina Da Siena (The Shrine of the House of Saint Catherine) is where the sister spent her life.

Her former home is split into various sections spread across three levels.

Enter the Portico Dei Comuni ambulatory, check out the crucifix where Saint Catherine received her stigmata inside the Church of the Crucifix and pop into the 14th-century style Kitchen Oratory.

Other exciting spaces to discover are the Oratory of the Bedroom, the Cubicle and the Confessional Chapel.

Only added after her passing, the home room walls were decorated in a mixture of religious frescoes and those depicting her life story, painted between the 16th and 19th centuries by various Sienese artists.

Porta Camollia

Visiting Siena 500 years ago, the only way to enter the town was through Porta Camollia, i.e. the old city gate.

Traced back to before the Middle Ages, the ancient gateway is named after the Italian commander, Camullio. He was sent by the founder of Rome (Romulus) to capture his nephews Senio and Ascani, and instead, Camullio made the city of Siena his home base.

Forming part of Siena’s medieval walls, it’s found on the northern end on Via Camollia.

Completely free to visit, walk underneath one of its three arches, and the middle one is the largest of these.

Try spotting the Medici coat of arms above the central stone archway, added after the family invaded Siena from Florence in the 16th century.

Basilica Cateriniana

The Gothic-style Basilica Cateriniana is a site to behold! Named after St. Catherine, this is where she spent most of her days.

Built between 1226 and 1265, it was later renovated into this architectural style and then again modeled in the Baroque manner after parts of the church were destroyed in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Interestingly, the Baroque elements were all removed in the 20th century to retain its original charm. Constructed on Camporegio Hill, the original old Chapter Room, old Sacristy, the Refectory and the Dormitory are still intact.

There is also an on-site bookshop (where you can purchase both religious and non-religious books and keepsakes), building frescoes to explore and mass is held here.

Palazzo Salimbeni

With parts of its features designed by Raphael, the Palazzo Salimbeni building isn’t just a must-visit for its architectural integrity.

Today, it still contains the offices of Europe’s first bank, the Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena!

Originally a palace belonging to the Salimbeni family (hence the name), it was designed in the 14th century in the typical Renaissance style but underwent a Neo-Gothic revamp circa the 19th century.

Although the private bank is closed off to visitors, you can still appreciate its beauty from the outside.

Located in the Piazza Salimbeni, Palazzo Tantucci and Palazzo Spannocchi are also within this square. Pose for a picture next to the statue of Sallustio Bandini — one of Italy’s first economists and pioneers of free trade in the country.

Fortezza Medicea

Did you know that back in the day, Florence and Siena were ruled by different governments?

It wasn’t until the 16th century, when the Medici family was in power that the Republic of Siena was disestablished. With this came the rise of the Fortezza Medicea, and the fort was constructed between 1561 and 1563 under the rule of Cosimo de’ Medici.

However, its foundations had already been set years before by the Spaniards. When the Medicis took over, they erected the four-sided fortress, and you can walk along parts of the ramparts.

Eventually, the Medici Fortress had no role left to play once the city was demilitarized, and was converted into a public park in 1937. Sporting and leisurely outdoor activities are popular here now, and it’s also an incredible spot for lapping up city views from an elevated vantage point.

How long should I spend in Siena?

A day tour is the perfect amount of time to get your fix of Siena’s sightseeing, foodie-centric endeavors and art; however, if you are afforded the time, one to two days is ideal.

If you plan on just passing through, set aside at least two to three hours.

What are the best Siena day tours from Florence?

Siena day tour with lunch.

Famed for its vineyards, farmlands and rolling hills, Tuscany is a renowned foodie hotspot!

Indulge in a day of sightseeing and delicious bites during one of these best Siena day tours from Florence with lunch at a traditional restaurant in the countryside, a local winery, or even an ancient castle!

Departing from Firenze in the morning, some tours head directly to the city with lunch served afterward, or the other way round — in which case, you’ll first explore parts of Chianti en route to the restaurant.

Enjoy ample time in the city of the Palio , photographing its exquisite time-warped landmarks stretching back to Medieval times. Pop into museums and art galleries, and there is a fabulous mixture of shopping boutiques, from trendy fashion to historical souvenirs.

• Siena day tours with lunch from Florence

Siena day tour with dinner

Late-risers or travelers who already have morning plans can still experience Siena during a day tour, kicking off at midday (around 12.30 PM) and returning to the Tuscan capital after dinner.

Tour dependent, arrive in Siena where your guided excursion begins, clocking in the most famous buildings, landmarks and monuments in a couple of hours; your chaperone sharing interesting titbits and historical facts at each stop.

As the sun begins to set, settle down for a classic Italian dinner at one of the restaurants surrounding Piazza del Campo, or certain tours savor this part outside of Siena at a local wine estate, with a four-course meal inside the cellar, for example.

• Siena day tours with dinner from Florence

Siena day tour with wine tasting

Wine is synonymous with Tuscany, so what could be better than a day tour paired with wine tastings?

Departing from Florence, whizz through the Chianti hills into Greve (this area is celebrated for its wineries, for example, Fattoria di Montecchio, and vineyards lined in grape and olive groves). These tours typically follow the old Chianti road route, skipping the main highway.

Learn the history behind the estate and the process involved in wine production, followed by vino samplings of Chianti Classico and Super Tuscan. Lining the bellies, these are accompanied by food samplings of local cheese, olive oils, breads and cold cuts!

The bulk of the Siena sightseeing for these expeditions is first up on itineraries while you still have your walking legs strong!

• Siena day tours with wine tasting from Florence

Are there any combo Siena tours from Florence including other destinations on the way?

When planning your itinerary in Tuscany, don’t miss out on exploring the best day trips from Florence . While Siena is a popular choice, there are also combo tours to other towns and villages within the Tuscan countryside, and a handful of not-to-miss destinations are within close range of the city.

Siena & Pisa day tour

What could be better than getting the chance to visit two of Italy’s iconic cities near Florence in one day?

With a visit to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, stopovers at Tuscan wineries and exposure to some of the region’s oldest traditions, from the culture to the food, a Siena and Pisa day tour is completely satisfying.

The Leaning Tower is found within the Square of Miracles complex, and also here are the Cathedral, Baptistery and the Camposanto.

Specific adventures let you roam freely in either city or both; others are guided the entire way.

• Siena & Pisa day tours from Florence

Siena & Chianti day tour

It’s almost a sin to travel to Florence and not explore Chianti, home of Tuscany’s wine region — especially if you’re a wine connoisseur. Plus, what better way to end off a day of exploring Siena?

A Siena and Chianti day tour epitomizes the best of this spectacular countryside, veering across verdant landscapes littered with grape groves, olive trees and farmlands where cows and sheep lazily graze.

Depending on the operator, you will visit at least two wineries, some include up to four, and these range from family-run vineyards to famous wineries.

Get educated on the different grape varieties that grow in the area, hear some of the history behind each estate, and enjoy time in the cellars where tastings are held.

• Siena & Chianti day tours from Florence

Siena & San Gimignano day tour

San Gimignano is one of the most magical places, and this unique medieval hamlet is like any other town you’ve seen before!

With its walls dedicatedly protected and preserved through the centuries, it’s as if you’ve time-machined back to the 1500s. Meandering along the cobbled streets lined with delis, restaurants, cafes and boutique shops is amazing, and the winner of the world’s best gelato makers is here, too!

Located 45 minutes from Siena, either explore Siena first and then San Gimignano or the other way round. There are some incredible wineries around San Gimignano as well, and certain tours break at one or two of these for either lunch or wine tastings.

• Siena & San Gimignano day tours from Florence

Hot tip: Discover the many things to do in Tuscany such as visiting vineyards, exploring olive groves, and staying in rustic agriturismos.

When is the best time to visit Siena?

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable months to visit Siena, skipping out on overbearing crowds that arrive for an Italian summer.

The weather in March and April is still quite fresh and days are overcast, but with all of the walking around, this is much appreciated! Toward the end of April and May, Siena sees the most rain.

If you are visiting between November and February, dress warmly! Most of the city’s infrastructure was established centuries ago using materials such as stone, and so cool breezes echo from the building walls.

Between September and October is also a wonderful time to visit Siena, as summer fades away and the cooler weather rolls in, but still with lots of sunshine.

How can I book a Siena day tour from Florence?

With travelers often tossing up between making Siena or Florence their home base for the duration of their time in Tuscany, Siena is a hotspot! As a result, there are many websites selling the best Siena day tours from Florence.

Using our TourScanner search engine, conveniently compare the different tour prices and offerings all in one platform, deciding for yourself which tour best suits your travel needs.

From here, booking is easy with a few simple clicks!

Can I customize my Siena day tour?

If you’re not the biggest fan of joining large tour groups or prefer to be your own routing captain, customize your Siena day tour by opting for one of the private tours from Florence .

Although you will have a basic itinerary to follow, if there’s a particular village or town you’re dying to check out on the way to Siena or on the way back to Florence, just let your tour guide know. These excursions are limited to your tour group only after all.

The same goes for the landmarks and buildings in Siena itself.

Another bonus of a privatized expedition is an extra comfortable journey, often swapping coaches for cars and eliminating some of the travel time. Once you arrive in Siena, enjoy skip-the-line tickets to the city’s most sought-after attractions, such as the Duomo, or if you’re visiting another city as well, the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

• private Siena day tours from Florence

Travel tips

• There are two ways to enter the city of Siena: via the elevators or walk 25 minutes up the hill to the city’s entry point.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes for the cobbled streets and explorations.
• If visiting in Spring, bring a rain jacket for its rainy season, or sunblock in the summer months.
• Filled with loads of cute shops, make sure you have enough spending money on you.
• Don’t leave your camera behind; the unique structures in Siena tug on any photo-happy heartstrings.
• If your tour doesn’t include lunch, there are some fantastic restaurants in Siena, including a handful of Michelin-listed options!

CATHEDRAL MUSEUM

As you tour the Cathedral’s museum complex, you will eventually come into the north aisle of the so-called “New Cathedral”. This now houses the Museo dell’Opera, one of the oldest private museums in Italy.

The ground-floor rooms host a major collection of 14th century Sienese statuary from the Cathedral façade, the first design for which was the work of Giovanni Pisano . The splendid marble statues depicting Sibyls, Prophets and Philosophers of Antiquity, which Pisano carved while holding the post of master-builder (1285–7), vibrate with the artist’s new style of sculpture, coming alive with a Gothic realism and dynamism that pulsates with spiritual energy. The room also contains two important works by 15th century artists: a bas-relief depicting the Madonna and Child Enthroned with Cardinal Casini by Jacopo della Quercia (1437–8) from the Chapel of St. Sebastian in the Cathedral, and

A temperature-controlled room on the first floor of the Museum is home to the magnificent altarpiece known as the Maestà of Duccio di Buoninsegna, the true jewel in the collection’s crown and an undisputed masterpiece of early 14th century Italian art.

The altarpiece, which Duccio painted from 1308 to 1311, was visible from both sides and is one of the most prodigious artistic undertakings of all time, if we consider that it contains over forty figures on the front and almost eighty in the stories on the back, on the predellas and on the cusps. The panel on the front side depicts the Madonna and Child Enthroned with Angels and Saints while the back, which is divided up into twenty-six different scenes, recounts the story of the Passion of Christ . The same room also contains a panel depicting the Birth of the Virgin painted by Pietro Lorenzetti in 1342 for the former alter of St. Sabinus in the Cathedral.

The rooms adjacent to the Room of the Maestà house a rich and prestigious collection of wooden sculptures and illuminated manuscript codices . The statues of Mourners carved by Domenico di Niccolò dei Cori between 1414 and 1415 and the Madonna and Saints carved by Jacopo della Quercia between 1415 and 1420 are of outstanding quality, while a set of cases in the room houses several of the Cathedral’s numerous codices illuminated by artists of the calibre of Lippo Vanni, Sano di Pietro and Benvenuto di Giovanni.

We now move on to the Treasury with its over two hundred objects associated with the sacred liturgy. Its rich collection of chalices includes a superbly enamelled cup made by Goro di Ser Neroccio in the 15th century,

while the star of its splendid collection of reliquaries is the Reliquary of the Arm of St. John the Baptist commissioned by Pope Pius II from Francesco d’Antonio in 1466 to house a relic given to him by the Despot of Morea, Thomas Paleologus. The rare and extremely beautiful cruets from the Chapel of the “Madonna del Voto” in Siena Cathedral are made of rock crystal mounted in silver embellished with translucent enamels. Commissioned by Pope Alexander VII Chigi in the mid-17th century, these cruets may be considered masterpieces of the goldsmith’s art on account of both their highly sophisticated engraving and decoration and of the craftsman’s perfect mastery of his technique. Another product of Chigi patronage is the splendid Golden Rose designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini and donated to Siena Cathedral by Alexander VII in 1658.

The first room contains a collection of chiefly gold-ground paintings, including in particular the Madonna of the Large Eyes , one of the oldest paintings of the Sienese school, painted by the Master of Tressa in the second quarter of the 13th century. The people of Siena offered up a prayer before this picture, entrusting the safety of their city to the Virgin, before the battle of Montaperti on 4 September 1260 (which they went on to win). It is also worthwhile highlighting Gregorio di Cecco’s large polyptych with the Madonna of Humility and Saints (1423) from the Altar of the Visitation in the Cathedral and the two large panel paintings depicting St. Bernardino Preaching painted by Sano di Pietro in the 1440s.

Alfieri Room

The second room, known as the Alfieri Room, contains Matteo di Giovanni’s two extremely fine altarpieces depicting the Madonna Enthroned with St. Anthony and St. Bernardino (1460) from the Baptistry and the Madonna Enthroned with Four Saints and Angels (1480) from the Celsi Altar in the Cathedral. One of the most original works on display in this room is a panel painting depicting St. Paul Enthroned painted by Domenico Beccafumi in 1516, together with an elegant pair of polychrome terracotta statues of the Announcing Angel and the Virgin Annunciate which the artist modelled in circa 1545.

Tapestry Room

The Tapestry Room, covered floor to ceiling in 17th century wall hangings, showcases 19th century work such as the large models for the cusps on the Cathedral façade painted by the artists Luigi Mussini and Alessandro Franchi in 1878. Cases around the walls house an important collection of textiles from the Cathedral , while a showcase in the middle of the room contains the precious Casula in Lucca jasper made some time between the 13th and 14th centuries.

GROUND PLAN OF THE MUSEUM

Galleria delle statue:

Position of the masterpieces inside the Museum:

1 Madonna and Child , known as the “Madonna del Perdono” – Donatello

2 Sculptures from the facade of the Cathedral – Giovanni Pisano

3 Stained-glss rose window – Duccio di Buoninsegna

Sala Duccio:

Position of the masterpieces inside the Second Floor of the Museum:

4 Madonna and Child Enthroned with Saints and Angels – Duccio di Buoninsegna

5 The story of the Passion – Duccio di Buoninsegna

6 Nativity of the Virgin – Pietro Lorenzetti

7 Madonna and Child with Saints – Jacopo della Quercia

8 Pastoral ivory – 15th century

9 Reliquary for St John’s arm – Francesco d’Antonio

10 Golden Rose – Gian Lorenzo Bernini (design by)

Sala Madonna Occhi Grossi

Position of the masterpieces inside the Third Floor of the Museum:

11 Madonna of the Large Eyes – Maestro di Tressa

12 Madonna of Humility and Saints – Gregorio di Cecco

13 St Bernardine preaching in Piazza del Campo – Sano di Pietro

15 Madonna and Child Enthroned with St Anthony and St Bernardine – Matteo di Giovanni

16 St. Paul Enthroned – Domenico Beccafumi

OPENING TIMES MUSEUM

From 1 March to 3 November 2024 9:30 am – 7:30 pm

From 4 November to 24 December 2024 10:30 am – 5:30 pm

From 26 December  to 7 January 2025 09:30 am – 7:30 pm

Last admission 30 minutes before closing time.

CALL CENTER

Information, reservations and ticket sales

+39 0577 286300

Immediate access to the masterpieces of the Monumental Complex of the Duomo, reducing waiting times

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A single ticket that allows access to the cathedral roofs and to all the museums of the complex.

FREE AUDIOGUIDE Directly on your smartphone

FULL PRICE 01/03 – 06/01 : € 21,00

REDUCED TICKET  (CHILDREN FROM 7 TO 11 YEARS OF AGE) 01/03 – 06/01 : € 6,00

FREE  (CHILDREN UP TO 6 YEARS OF AGE)

Remember to always consult the rules of conduct before accessing the tour.

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A single ticket that allows access to all the museums of the complex..

Valid for three consecutive days from the date of issue.

FULL PRICE 01/01 – 26/06; 01/08 – 17/08; 17/10 – 31/12 : € 14,00

during floor uncovering (27/06 – 31/07; 18/08 – 16/10) : € 16,00

REDUCED TICKET (CHILDREN FROM 7 TO 11 YEARS OF AGE) 01/01 – 31/12 : € 3,00

• Children up to 6 years of age
• Siena municipality residents and born
• Journalists
• Disabled visitors (+ one carer per visitor)
• Clerics of both genders
• Students of University of Siena and University for Foreigners of Siena
• Parish groups of the Archdiocese of Siena with a letter from the parish priest

* Those born and resident in the Municipality of Siena have free access to the entire monumental complex of the Duomo

Privacy Overview

• Siena Attractions

Siena Cathedral

• Piccolomini Library
• Architecture
• Plan Your Visit
• Museum Of San Pietro

All Timings of the Siena Cathedral Complex

Open 10 AM - 7 PM

Last Admission

From April 1 to October 31:

• Cathedral: 10:00 am – 07:00 pm (Sundays and public holidays: 1:30 pm – 6:00 pm)
• On December 1st (Patron Saint): Cathedral opens 10:30 am – 3:00 pm

November 1 to March 31:

• Cathedral: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm (Sundays and public holidays: 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm)

December 26 to January 6:

• Cathedral: 10:30 am – 6:00 pm (Sundays and public holidays: 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm, Saturdays: 10:30 am – 5:30 pm)

June 27 to July 31 and August 18 to October 18, 2023:

• Cathedral: 10:00 am – 07:00 pm (Sundays and public holidays: 9:30 am – 6:00 pm)

Book Siena Cathedral Tickets

The Siena Cathedral is a majestic Romanesque church in the historic center of Siena, Italy. The cathedral is surrounded by adjoining buildings of great interest namely the Museum, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Piccolomini Library , and many more. Read on to know when these avenues open their doors and even mass timings.

What are Siena Cathedral Opening Hours?

The cathedral is open every day. However, holidays like Christmas, the Day of Palio, and other religious celebrations may have special opening hours that can be checked on the official site .

• 1 April to 31 October: 10 AM – 7 PM On Sundays and public holidays: 1:30 AM– 6 PM
• 1 November to 31 March: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM On Sundays and public holidays: 1:30 AM– 5:3o PM
• 26 December to 6 January: 10:30 AM – 6 PM On Sundays and public holidays: 1:30 AM– 5:30 PM

Last Admission : The last entry to the cathedral is 30 minutes before closing time.  Closed : The Siena Cathedral is open throughout the year.

The Picocolomini Library, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Crypt, the facade of the New Duomo, and even the Gate of Heaven tour share the same opening and closing hours in the year. 

• 1 April to 31 October: 10 AM – 7 PM On Sundays and public holidays: 1.30 PM – 6 PM
• 1 November  to 31 March: 10.30 AM – 5.30 PM On Sundays and public holidays: 1.30 PM – 5.30 PM
• 26 December to 6 January: 10.30 AM – 6.00 PM On Sundays and public holidays: 1.30 PM – 5.30 PM Last Admission : The last entry to the cathedral is 30 minutes before closing time.

The museum follows the same timings as the cathedral on public holidays and Sundays.

• 1 April to 31 October: 9.30 AM – 7.30 PM
• 1 November to 31 March: 10.30 AM – 5.30 PM
• 26 December to 6 January: 10.30 AM  – 6 PM

Last Admission: The last entry is half an hour before the museum closing time.

1 April to 31 October: 1.30 PM – 7 PM Last Admission: The last entry is 30 minutes before closing time.

The Historical Archive is open from Monday to Thursday between 9 AM and 1 PM and 1:30 PM  to 4:30 PM

The Carli library is open to the public on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 9 AM to 1:30 PM and on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9 AM to 1 PM.

The Photo Library can be accessed only by consultation and appointment.

What are the Mass Timings of Siena Cathedral?

Mass in the Siena Cathedral takes in the Chapel of the Vow or the Capella del Voto located inside the Cathedral. When the marble floor of the Cathedral is fully unveiled, mass is held in the church of the Santissima Annunziata.

General Timings:

• Mass takes place on weekdays at 9:30 AM.
• On holidays and days before holidays, mass is held at 8 AM, 11 AM, 12:15 PM, and 6 PM (6:30 PM in Summer)

When is the marble floor of the Siena Cathedral unveiled? 

The marble floor of the Siena Cathedral which contains 56 stunning panels created by Sienese artists is a defining feature of the 13th-century church. However, for most of the year, most of the floor of the Cathedral is covered by a cloth in order to protect panels from staining or being scratched.

The good news is that for a period of time, the floor is unveiled for the public to see. In the year 2022, the floor was unveiled from 27 June to 31 July and from 18 August to 17 October. It is expected that similar dates will be followed in the year 2023.

What is the Best Time to Visit the Siena Cathedral?

Peak Season vs Low Season

The peak tourist season in Siena is from April to October. This is when the city sees the most number of visitors. The added beauty and weather of the summer seasons make it a joyous time to visit the city. The Siena Cathedral, on the other hand, is usually very crowded around this time, making it difficult to view the splendid interiors with ease and capture good photographs. 

In the low season, post-October, the crowds diminish and the Cathedral is relatively free of thronging crowds. However, the weather tends to become nippy and additional layering is required. That being said, visiting from August to October may provide the best experience as this is the time when the peak season is ending and visitors even get to enjoy the unveiled marble panels of the floor.

The Weekend vs Weekdays

The weekends are best avoided due to the surge of visitors the Cathedral experiences around that time. You will also have limited time to view the Cathedral during these times due to the late opening hours on Sundays and public holidays. 

The best time to visit would be on a weekday, preferably in the morning after mass, when the congregation disperses and the Cathedral experiences quiet for a few hours. The late afternoons are also preferable for a quiet and solemn experience of the church as visitors have usually broken for lunch around this time.

How Long Does It Take To Visit the Siena Cathedral?

The Siena Cathedral is an extensive structure with an extremely detailed facade and an exquisitely decorated interior. Moreover, the treasured works of art including frescos, stone altars, sculptures, and paintings require careful attention in order to appreciate the richness of this cultural landmark. You may also opt to go on a Gate of Heaven tour or see the other buildings in the Cathedral complex such as the museum, the baptistery, and the oratory. Hence, it is recommended to spend a minimum of an hour at the Siena Cathedral.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Seina Cathedral Opening Hours

The Siena Cathedral opening hours differ based on the time of year but can be anywhere between 10 AM and 7 PM. Special timings apply on public holidays, Sundays, and religious celebrations.

Yes, the Siena Cathedral is open every day. However, special timings may apply on certain religious festivals.

Yes, the Siena Cathedral remains open on most public holidays but for shorter durations.

To admire the architecture of the facade and interiors and have a good look at the artworks inside the cathedral, it is recommended that you spend at least an hour at the Siena Cathedral.

The best time to visit the Siena Cathedral is between August and October. Around this time, the peak season is ending and crowds diminish. The panels of the marble floor are also unveiled during this time.

You may visit the cathedral on a public holiday. However, the cathedral will be more crowded than usual, and you also have limited time to view the cathedral as opening and closing hours are shorter on holidays.

The opening and closing timings of the Siena Cathedral are shorter on Sundays and public holidays. Although it depends on the time of year, the timings are usually between 1:30 PM in the afternoon to 6 PM in the evening.