The medieval town hall of Siena with a civic museum and panoramic tower

Explore Palazzo Pubblico with historical frescoes and spectacular views.

4.7 Rating out of 5
2.118 Reviews on Google
14 € From a ticket
Photos
Facciata del Palazzo Pubblico di Siena

Wikimedia Commons

In short

What Palazzo Pubblico is

Palazzo Pubblico in Siena, located in Piazza del Campo, is a magnificent example of secular Gothic architecture. It houses the Museo Civico del Palazzo Pubblico di Siena, which preserves a rich collection of frescoes and artworks illustrating the history and art of Siena to the present day. Among the masterpieces on display are works by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, such as the Allegory of Good and Bad Government, and those by Simone Martini.

The museum offers insight into the civic, religious, and artistic traditions of the city during its golden age. Visitors can admire the frescoed halls, which are testimonies to the wealth and historical significance of Siena as a medieval republic. Additionally, the palace's balcony provides a splendid view of the square below and the surrounding Tuscan hills.

The palace's tower, standing at 88 meters, offers a spectacular panoramic view of the medieval city and the Tuscan landscape. However, the climb to the tower is challenging and not recommended for those with health issues or claustrophobia. The path is narrow, and the steps are numerous, but the view from the top is worth the effort.

The tickets

Tickets for Palazzo Pubblico

How you visit

The visit

The Museo Civico del Palazzo Pubblico di Siena requires about an hour and a half for a complete visit. Tickets for the museum include access to the frescoed halls and a downloadable audio guide app, but they must be purchased on site, as they cannot be booked in advance. It is advisable to plan the visit to avoid peak hours when the queue can be long.

The visit to the tower is separate and involves climbing 300 steps in a narrow, spiral path. The path is quite challenging and features some dark and windy areas. Visitors should be prepared for tight spaces and steep stairs.

The entrance to the palace is accessible for people with disabilities, and there are accessible restrooms inside. However, the climb to the tower is not suitable for those with mobility difficulties.

When it opens

Opening hours

Monday 10:00–18:00
Tuesday 10:00–18:00
Wednesday 10:00–18:00
Thursday 10:00–18:00
Friday 10:00–18:00
Saturday 10:00–18:00
Sunday 10:00–18:00

Hours from the Google record, current as of publication.

The reviews

What visitors say

Many visitors appreciate the well-preserved medieval frescoes by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, offering a fascinating glimpse into Siena's history and culture. The climb to the tower is often mentioned for its difficulty but also for the breathtaking view it offers of the city and the Tuscan landscape.

Several visitors have praised the museum staff's availability and expertise, always ready to answer questions and provide useful information. Additionally, the palace's location in Piazza del Campo is considered ideal for exploring the center of Siena.

The location

Where it is

Il Campo, 1, 53100 Siena SI

Around here

What's nearby

Eat nearby

See nearby

Getting around

Photos by Locanda Garibaldi, Oops, 阿宝, Caffè 19zero3 Ristorante, Vini di Toscana - Piazza del Campo, Antico Tagliere, Alessandro, Elena Principe, Museo della Tortura di Siena, Lincoln Z. Shlensky, Benedetta Mattii, Violetti Arte Contemporanea, via Google.

Questions

Questions about visiting

Can tickets be booked in advance?

No, tickets for the tower must be purchased on site.

How long does it take to visit the museum?

The visit to the Museo Civico takes about an hour and a half.

Are there facilities for people with disabilities?

Yes, the entrance and restrooms are accessible.

Nearby

Other places in Siena