Siena Tour

Morning: Discover the Heart of Siena

1. Piazza del Campo
   Start your day at Piazza del Campo, the famous central square of Siena, known for its shell shape and for being the venue of the Palio di Siena horse race. Admire the Torre del Mangia and the historic buildings surrounding the square. Stroll around and soak in the medieval atmosphere.

2. Torre del Mangia
   Climb the Torre del Mangia, one of the tallest towers in Italy, for breathtaking panoramic views of Siena and the surrounding countryside. The climb of about 400 steps requires some effort, but the views from the top are worth it.

3. Palazzo Pubblico and Civic Museum
   After visiting the tower, explore the Palazzo Pubblico, Siena’s town hall. Inside, visit the Civic Museum, where you can admire masterpieces of medieval art, including Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s fresco, “The Allegory of Good and Bad Government”, an artwork symbolic of the city’s justice and life.

Late Morning: Siena Cathedral

4. Siena Cathedral (Duomo di Siena)
   Continue to the magnificent Siena Cathedral, one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in Italy. Marvel at its black and white marble facade and, once inside, be amazed by Renaissance artworks and the unique marble inlaid floor.

   • Piccolomini Library: Inside the cathedral, visit the stunning Piccolomini Library, decorated with vibrant frescoes illustrating the life of Pope Pius II. The frescoes, painted by Pinturicchio, are a true visual marvel.
   • Baptistery of St. John: Don’t forget to visit the Baptistery of St. John, famous for its baptismal font decorated by some of the greatest Renaissance artists.

Afternoon: Visit Spiritual and Historical Sites

5. Basilica of San Domenico
   After lunch, head to the Basilica of San Domenico, an important Gothic church linked to the life of Saint Catherine of Siena. Inside, you can see relics of the saint, including her preserved head and a finger. This basilica holds great spiritual significance for the people of Siena.

6. Walk through the Contrade
   Siena is famous for its Contrade, the historic districts that compete in the Palio. Take a walk through some of these neighborhoods to immerse yourself in local culture and traditions. The contrade are often adorned with flags and emblems that represent each district. You can also visit some of the small contrada museums, if open, to learn more about this unique tradition.

Late Afternoon: Explore Museums and Art

7. Santa Maria della Scala
   End your afternoon with a visit to Santa Maria della Scala, one of the oldest hospitals in Europe, now a museum complex. Here, you can explore art exhibitions, archaeological finds, and admire the beautiful frescoes in the Pellegrinaio Hall, which depict the hospital’s role in medieval society. Santa Maria della Scala is also a place to discover the social and cultural history of Siena.

8. Crypt and Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
   If you have more time, visit the Crypt of the cathedral, which was discovered relatively recently and contains stunning medieval frescoes. You can also enter the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo, where masterpieces that once adorned the cathedral are housed, including sculptures by Donatello and Jacopo della Quercia. From the museum, you can access the Facciatone, a panoramic terrace offering yet another magnificent view of the city and the Tuscan hills.

Evening: Sunset View of Siena

9. Walk to Orto de’ Pecci
   Before ending the day, take a walk to Orto de’ Pecci, a peaceful garden just outside the historic center. From here, you can enjoy a unique view of the city’s skyline, with the Duomo and Torre del Mangia illuminated by the sunset. It’s an ideal place to relax and reflect on your day spent in Siena.