Things to Do at Siena Cathedral Duomo Di Siena
Complete Guide to Siena Cathedral Duomo Di Siena in Siena
About Siena Cathedral Duomo Di Siena
What to See & Do
Piccolomini Library
Brilliantly preserved frescoes by Pinturicchio depicting the life of Pope Pius II. The colors are so vivid they look like they were painted yesterday, not 500 years ago.
Marble Floor Inlays
Intricate biblical scenes created in marble inlay work, though sections are only uncovered at certain times of year to preserve them. When visible, they're genuinely breathtaking.
Nicola Pisano's Pulpit
A masterpiece of Gothic sculpture that influenced cathedral design across Europe. The detailed relief carvings are worth studying up close.
Bernini's Chapel of the Vow
A baroque addition that showcases Bernini's genius for creating dramatic religious spaces. The contrast with the Gothic architecture is surprisingly harmonious.
Panoramic Views from Facciatone
Climb the unfinished facade of what would have been the new nave for some of the best views over Siena's terracotta rooftops and the Tuscan countryside beyond.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Generally open 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM Monday through Saturday, 1:30 PM - 6:00 PM on Sundays, though hours vary seasonally and during religious services. Worth checking current times before visiting.
Tickets & Pricing
Combined tickets (OPA SI Pass) around €15 include the cathedral, museum, baptistery, and crypt. Individual cathedral entry is typically €4-6. Book online during peak season to skip lines.
Best Time to Visit
Early morning or late afternoon tend to be less crowded. The marble floors are typically uncovered from late August through October - this is when you'll see the cathedral at its most spectacular.
Suggested Duration
Plan at least 1-2 hours for the cathedral itself, longer if you're including the museum and other sites on the combined ticket.
Getting There
Things to Do Nearby
Siena's famous shell-shaped main square and home to the Palio horse race. Just a few minutes' walk downhill from the cathedral.
Former hospital turned museum complex directly across from the cathedral, with fascinating frescoes and archaeological finds.
Siena's town hall with its iconic tower offering panoramic views. The interior houses important medieval frescoes.
Gothic church about 15 minutes' walk away, known for housing relics of St. Catherine of Siena and beautiful frescoes.
Siena's main art gallery showcasing the distinctive Sienese school of painting, including works by Duccio and Simone Martini.