Top Things to Do in the Siena | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

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Places To Visit In Siena

Battistero di San Giovanni

Battistero di San Giovanni or the Bapistery of Saint John in located in the Sienna Cathedral. It is located at the base of the apse of the cathedral. Over the course of centuries, it was enriched with various sculptures and paintings. The baptismal font is extremely famous and it is considered a masterpiece of the Early Renaissance in Tuscany that was sweeping over areas like Siena and Florence before it spread to the rest of Europe. It is attributed to Jacopo della Quercia. The basin is of the baptismal font is hexagonal in shape. It is decorated with gilded broze panels. These panels bring to life scenes from the life of Saint John the Baptist. These panels were executed by renowned artists like Jacopo della Quercia, Turino di Sano, Giovanni dii Turino, Lorenzo Ghiberti, and Donatello, all of whom have been renedered immortal by their works. The statues of Faith and Hope that are displayed here are by Donatello, Statues by Giovanni di Turino and Goro di Neroccio also claim pride of place. The ciborium is decorated with four musical angels in bronze. These two were executed by Donnatello and Giovanni di Turino. Among the other important works in the Baptistery are the statues from the school of Giovanni Pisano, the triptych of the Madonna with Saints and stories from the lives of Saint Stephen by Andrea Vanni and Giovanni di Paolo, the frescoes by Vecchietta and the articles of faith. Read More

Located on the iconic Piazza del Campo, Palazzo Pubblico is renowned for its distinctive Gothic design and is a symbol of Siena's rich cultural and political heritage. The palace is open to the public, inviting visitors to explore its grand halls, adorned with remarkable frescoes and period furniture. The palace boasts a remarkable Gothic exterior and even more remarkable interiors. Every room inside the palace contains frescoes and these were commissioned by the governing body of the city. Much like the rest of the city, one can spot Renascita grandeur. The frescoes by Lorenzetti in a series (on government) is one of the more famous frescoes dealing with secular themes. This set of frescoes go by the name of The Allegory of Good Government. Read More

Piazza del Campo stands as a masterpiece of medieval urban planning and civic pride. Encircled by elegant palaces, the focal point is the Palazzo Pubblico, a majestic Gothic structure dominating the square's incline. The city square is known for its medieval grandeur and architectural genius. The square is in a shell shape and various other landmarks surround the plaza. Amongst this is the Torra del Mangia. The twice-a-year horse race that Siena is famous for, takes place around this square. This iconic square, shaped like a scallop shell, serves as the vibrant stage for the historic Palio horse race. Read More

Siena Chapel is an iconic chapel is centrally located in the historic heart of Siena, renowned for its medieval streets and splendid artistry. The chapel's fame rests on its unique and intricate mosaic floor, a masterpiece that captivates visitors with its stunning beauty and historical significance. The magnificent complex of the Siena Chapel is home to various works of art and architecture. The pavement inside the Siena Duomo itself is a work of art. The cathedral occupied the highest point in the city and was conceived as the largest cathedral in the world. Both the exterior and the interior of the cathedral are heavily ornamented in keeping with Gothic tradition. The Cathedral has a colour palette-that of black and white. Legend has it that these two colours symbolize the two horses of the mythical founders of the city-Senius and Aschius. Read More

This is in reality a basilica, it is also known as Basilica Cateriniana. Built in the 13th century but enlarged in the 14th century and expanded into a Gthic style. The basilica has outlived several fires and one military occupation. The important aspects of the Church consists in the many paintings that it houses. Canonization of Saint Catherine by Mattia Preti. There are other paintings by Gambarelli housed in the basilica. In the left wall of the nave can be found a painting of Madonna with Child by Francesco di Vannuccio. This painting is framed by an eternal with Saint by Il Sodoma. In the right wall of the nave is a painting of the Virgin by Stefao Volpi, another painting called the Nativity of the Virgin by Alessandro Casolani can also be found here. The painting of Madonna with Child and of Saint Jerome and John the Baptist by Matteo di Giovanni can also be found here. Read More

The Civic Museum or the Museo Civico is situated in the central part of the city, inside the Palazzo Pubblico. Needless to say, the museum abounds in sculpures and art that Siena and its couotry, Italy, is well-known for. The museum lives up to the expectations of the visitor as it spellbounds the viewer with the spectacularly frescoed walls.The museum offers easy access to the Torre del Mangia. One of the major attractions of the museum is the Room of the Nine. It is a memorial to the nine elected n who governed the city during the latter part of the 13th century and the early part of the fouteenth century. The ticket office to the Civic Museum can be found on the other end of the courtyard(which can be found by taking the entrance to the right side) , beside the entrance to the theatre. Read More

Now a museum, it was once an important civic "hospital". The place was known for providing "hospitality" to pilgrims and therefore acquired the name "hospital". It is one of Siena's main artistic hubs. The hospital was known for its many philanthropic endeavours. Cast-off babies were often raised by the hospital. The hospital also served meals for the poor three times a week. Eventually they started employing one doctor and one surgeon. Eventually it became a training ground for doctors. The art of this complex consists mainly of frescoes and altarpieces. Read More

Rising majestically from the heart of Siena's Piazza del Campo, Torra del Mangia offers a brilliant view of the city and the surrounding Tuscan landscape. It is in proximity to several famous attractions in Siena. Constructed in the 14th century, this towering edifice reaches a height of 102 meters, making it one of Italy's tallest medieval towers. The journey to the top involves a climb of 400 steps. This rewarding ascent culminates in a panoramic spectacle showcasing Siena's terracotta rooftops, the undulating hills of Tuscany, and the distant Apennine Mountains. Visitors are advised to check the tower's opening hours and any maintenance schedules that might affect access. Read More