Pubblico Palace and Torre del Mangia: A Must-Visit in Siena, Italy

Must-see attractions in Palazzo Pubblico

• Museo Civico: No visit to Palazzo Pubblico would be complete without a tour of the museum, with its stunning frescoes and historical artifacts. Don’t miss the stunning Sala del Mappamondo, where masterpieces from Siena’s Golden Age are on display.
• Frescoes by Ambrogio Lorenzetti and Simone Martini: These masterpieces tell the political and cultural history of Siena and offer a glimpse into medieval life.
• The Chapel of Palazzo Pubblico: A small but impressive chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, where you can see religious frescoes.

Tips for visiting Palazzo Pubblico

• Plan your visit early: It is best to arrive early to avoid crowds, especially during the summer months, as it is a popular spot.
• Combi-ticket: Save money by choosing a ticket that includes admission to Torre del Mangia and the Civic Museum (€15).
• Duration: If you are particularly interested in art and history, you will want to spend at least 1.5 hours looking around the Palazzo Pubblico and the museum.

Torre del Mangia: Climb to the best view of Siena

Adjacent to Palazzo Pubblico is Torre del Mangia, which rises 102 meters above Piazza del Campo. Built between 1338 and 1348, the tower was designed to symbolize the equality of church and state, since it is the same height as Siena’s cathedral.

Climbing Torre del Mangia offers the best panoramic view of Siena and the surrounding Tuscan hills. With 400 steps and no elevator, the climb may be difficult, but it is worth it for the spectacular 360-degree view.

Points of interest that should not be missed

• Panoramic view: From the observation platform at the top of the tower, you can see the red roofs of Siena and the rolling Tuscan countryside. Be sure to bring your camera for great photos.
• History of the Bell: At the top of the tower there is also a large bell, the Campanone, installed in 1666. The bell rings during Siena’s major events, especially the famous Palio di Siena horse race.

Advice for climbing Torre del Mangia

• Physical fitness is required: It is a steep and narrow climb, but there are a few places along the way where you will have to catch your breath. It may not be suitable for those who are afraid of heights or claustrophobia.
• Book your tickets early: Since the number of tickets sold each day is limited, especially during the peak tourist season, it is recommended to purchase tickets as early as 10:00 a.m. to avoid disappointment. They can be purchased at the office located below the tower.
• Have your essentials on hand: You will need to leave your luggage in the lockers at the base of the tower. Keep a water bottle handy as it can get hot inside the stairwell, especially during the summer months.

Hours of Operation

• Torre del Mangia
  March 1 – October 31: 10:00 – 18:15
  November 1 – February 28: 10:00 – 15:15
  Closed on Christmas Day
  Restricted opening hours on New Year’s Day: 12:00 – 16:00
• Civic Museum (Palazzo Pubblico):
  Opening hours are the same as those of Torre del Mangia.

Ticket Prices

• Torre del Mangia: €10
• Civic Museum: €10
• Set ticket (Torre + Museum): €15
• Family ticket (2 adults + child over 11 years old): €40

Access

Siena is easily accessible by train and bus from major cities in Tuscany, including Florence and Pisa. Once you arrive in Siena, the best way to reach Piazza del Campo is on foot. This is because cars are restricted in the old town. Walking through Siena’s charming medieval streets is an experience in itself.

• By train: It takes about 1.5 hours from Florence to Siena by direct train from Florence Santa Maria Novella (Florence). From the Siena train station to Piazza del Campo is about a 20-minute walk or a short bus ride.
• Bus: There are several buses to Siena from Florence and Pisa. The bus terminal is a 10-minute walk from Piazza del Campo.