Attraction Tours Siena

Siena Attraction Tours: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to Siena, a medieval city in Tuscany, Italy! This stunning town offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking architecture. Here are some must-visit attractions for your tour:

  1. Piazza del Campo: Known as the “Conch Shell Square”, this is Siena’s main city square. The shell-shaped piazza is the site of the world-famous Palio horse race and offers stunning views of the city and the Palazzo Pubblico.

  2. Palazzo Pubblico: Adjacent to Piazza del Campo, this 14th-century palace houses the City Museum (Museo Civico) and the Torre del Mangia. The museum contains important works by Sienese artists such as Ambrogio Lorenzetti and Duccio di Buoninsegna.

  3. Duomo di Siena: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, this cathedral is adorned with intricate marble decorations, mosaics, and stunning frescoes by the likes of Pinturicchio and Lorenzetti. Don’t miss the crypt below the church, which contains the tombs of many notable Sienese figures.

  4. Baptistery of San Giovanni: Located next to the Duomo, this beautiful Baptistery is known for its stunning mosaics and intricate marble decorations. The Baptistery is also the burial place of Saint John the Baptist’s robes.

  5. Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana: Housed within the walls of the Duomo, this museum contains many of Siena’s most famous works of art, including Duccio’s Maestà and the dramatic Lamentation over Christ by Vecchietta.

  6. Santa Maria della Scala: Originally a hospital complex, Santa Maria della Scala now serves as a museum and art gallery. The complex includes a medieval pharmacy, an archaeological area, and various works of art.

  7. Basilica di San Domenico: This church contains the remains of Saint Catherine of Siena and is a significant pilgrimage site. The church also houses a museum with many works of art, including paintings by Simone Martini and Lippo Memmi.

  8. Piazza Salimbeni: Just off Piazza del Campo, this small square is home to the Palazzo Salimbeni and the Church of San Giorgio. The church contains a beautiful fresco by Sassetta and offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

When planning your tour, consider purchasing a Combined Ticket (Biglietto integrato) which grants access to several of these attractions at a discounted price. Also, remember that many sites have specific opening hours and may be closed on certain days, so it’s best to check in advance. Happy exploring!