Admission Ticket for Siena Cathedral Complex in Siena (Tuscany)

updated: July 03th, 2025

Explore Siena Cathedral Complex: a journey through art, history, and architecture. Discover the Piccolomini Library, Baptistery, Crypt, and breathtaking "Facciatone" panoramic view. Plan your visit to this magnificent landmark at Siena's Duomo Square. Book tickets ahead for an unforgettable experience!

Admission Ticket for Siena Cathedral Complex in Siena (Tuscany)

updated: July 03th, 2025

Explore Siena Cathedral Complex: a journey through art, history, and architecture. Discover the Piccolomini Library, Baptistery, Crypt, and breathtaking "Facciatone" panoramic view. Plan your visit to this magnificent landmark at Siena's Duomo Square. Book tickets ahead for an unforgettable experience!

Overview

Exploring the Grandeur of Siena Cathedral Complex: A Journey Through Art and History

The Siena Cathedral Complex, centrally located at Piazza del Duomo, 8, represents a profound testament to artistic brilliance and historical depth. More than just a single structure, it is a magnificent collection of interconnected architectural wonders, each brimming with incredible historical and artistic value. This complex invites visitors on a comprehensive itinerary, allowing them to delve into centuries of artwork, history, and architectural evolution. It stands as a vibrant narrative of human creativity and devotion, offering a journey through a rich tapestry of cultural heritage that resonates deeply with those who appreciate grandeur and intricate detailing. Every corner here unfolds a story, from sacred spaces to renowned libraries, promising an immersive experience that transports one through time.

Unveiling the Treasures Within: Highlights of the Siena Cathedral Complex

Your exploration of the Siena Cathedral Complex unveils a series of captivating sights, each a highlight in its own right:

  • The Piccolomini Library: This space is a pure joy to behold. It safeguards invaluable treasures, including beautifully illuminated choir books and other manuscripts dating from the 13th to the 15th century. The entire room is a spectacle, adorned with vibrant and intricate Pinturicchio frescoes, notably featuring early works by a very young Raphael Sanzio. It stands as a true work of art, with its walls and ceilings narrating tales through color and form, preserving a legacy of medieval scholarship and artistic mastery.
  • The Baptistery of San Giovanni: Step into the Baptistery to admire its significant examples of early Renaissance sculpture, including the celebrated baptismal font. Its artistic achievements offer a profound insight into the period's innovative spirit and mastery of form.
  • The Crypt: Embark on a journey beneath the main cathedral to discover the Crypt, a remarkable space only recently unearthed after remaining hidden for nearly seven centuries. Its rediscovery offers a unique glimpse into the past, presenting a preserved historical layer of the complex.
  • The Opera del Duomo Museum: This museum houses a collection of statues, diverse artworks, and exquisite stained glass windows, all of which once graced the Siena Cathedral. It provides an opportunity to appreciate these pieces up close, understanding their significance within the broader context of the Cathedral's history.
  • The "Facciatone" Panoramic View: Conclude your comprehensive visit with a grand finale atop the "Facciatone," part of the unfinished New Cathedral façade. From this panoramic spot, you are rewarded with a breathtaking view of the city, extending across the rooftops and into the distant Tuscan landscape, providing a memorable vista that captures the essence of Siena.

Planning Your Exploration: Essential Information for Your Visit

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit to the Siena Cathedral Complex, here are a few points to note:

  • To ensure entry, especially during peak seasons, it is highly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance online, as entry is often timed. Plan for ample time to explore the vast array of artistic and historical sites within the complex, as it offers a comprehensive itinerary.
  • On Sunday mornings, the Cathedral is closed to tourists due to mass services until approximately 1:30 PM.
  • Opening hours for the various components of the complex vary, and it is advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date schedule before your visit.
  • Certain visitor categories are eligible for free entry at the ticket office. This includes children under 6, individuals with disabilities and one accompanying carer, students enrolled at the Università per Stranieri di Siena and the Università degli Studi di Siena, residents and those born in the Municipality of Siena, clergy members, licensed guides, and journalists.

Reviews

"This chamber within the Cathedral is a pure joy. Perfectly preserved ancient manuscripts and treasured books from centuries past await. A truly remarkable historical collection."

"More than a typical collection, this space within the main church is a stunning work of art. Its beautiful artistry and vibrant wall paintings make it a truly captivating sight."

"A beautifully decorated room connected to the Cathedral. It elegantly showcases ancient musical scores and colorful frescoes. A delightful and inspiring journey into history."

"This intimate, yet essential, display within the main church truly needs to be seen. Discover exquisite artworks and amazing medieval calligraphy. It is simply wonderful."

Opening Hours

Monday: 10:30 - 17:30
Tuesday: 10:30 - 17:30
Wednesday: 10:30 - 17:30
Thursday: 10:30 - 17:30
Friday: 10:30 - 17:30
Saturday: 10:30 - 17:30
Sunday: 13:30 - 17:30 

How to Get There

Bus stop

196m (0.12mi) from Piazza Postierla - about a 3-minute walk
441m (0.27mi) from Due Porte - about a 7-minute walk
434m (0.27mi) from Mascagni - about a 7-minute walk 
Train / Subway

14.0km (8.70mi) from Arbia
10.6km (6.56mi) from Siena Industrial Zone
13.7km (8.54mi) from Badesse 

Map

Things to Do in the Area

Discovering the Enchanting Landscapes and Legacy of Tuscany

Tuscany, a region of breathtaking beauty in central Italy, invites travelers to explore its iconic rolling hills, rich artistic heritage, and world-renowned culinary traditions. It is a place where history comes alive amidst picturesque vineyards and charming medieval towns.
  • Florence: The cradle of the Renaissance, Florence captivates with its unparalleled art and architecture. Visitors can wander through the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci, marvel at the imposing Duomo with Brunelleschi's dome, and stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio. The city's vibrant markets and artisan workshops offer a glimpse into its enduring creative spirit.
  • Chianti Wine Region: Nestled between Florence and Siena, the Chianti region is synonymous with its exquisite red wines and idyllic countryside. Exploring this area means scenic drives through cypress-lined roads, visits to historic vineyards for wine tastings, and charming stops in medieval villages like Greve in Chianti or Castellina in Chianti, each offering authentic Tuscan experiences and delectable local cuisine.
  • San Gimignano: Known as the "Town of Fine Towers," San Gimignano is a remarkably preserved medieval hill town that offers a captivating journey back in time. Its distinctive skyline, dominated by ancient stone towers built by rival noble families, provides a stunning backdrop for exploration. Visitors can climb the Torre Grossa for panoramic views, discover medieval art, and savor local saffron and Vernaccia wine.
Siena: A Timeless Journey Through Medieval Splendor

Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the heart of Tuscany, is a city where medieval history and vibrant traditions are deeply woven into its fabric. Its well-preserved historic center, characterized by narrow winding streets and beautiful brick buildings, offers an immersive experience into Italy's past.
  • Piazza del Campo: This magnificent shell-shaped main square is the beating heart of Siena and one of Europe's most famous medieval public spaces. It is renowned for hosting the thrilling Palio horse race twice a year, but even outside race days, it is a bustling hub where locals and visitors gather. The sloping pavement and surrounding historic buildings create a unique and inviting atmosphere for relaxation and people-watching.
  • Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia: Dominating Piazza del Campo, the Palazzo Pubblico is Siena's imposing civic palace, an exquisite example of Gothic architecture. Inside, visitors can admire stunning frescoes, including Lorenzetti's Allegory of Good and Bad Government. Adjacent to the palace, the soaring Torre del Mangia offers a challenging climb to its summit, rewarding those who ascend with unparalleled panoramic views over Siena's terracotta rooftops and the surrounding Tuscan landscape.
  • Siena National Art Gallery: Housed in the Palazzo Buonsignori, the Siena National Art Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale di Siena) is a treasure trove of Sienese art from the 13th to the 18th centuries. It showcases an impressive collection of paintings, including masterpieces by Duccio di Buoninsegna, Simone Martini, and Pietro Lorenzetti, providing a comprehensive insight into the rich artistic heritage of the Sienese school.

Detailed descriptions

Reviews