Siena Cathedral (Duomo) Tours and Tickets

The Siena Cathedral, or the Duomo di Siena, features a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, combining elements from both styles. Its facade features intricate Gothic carvings, resembling lace, while the dark green and white marble construction adds to its allure. The striped campanile (bell tower), dating to 1313, reflects Romanesque influences.

Though the intricate facade of the Siena Cathedral is striking, some of the church's most compelling features are inside. These include columns of black and white marble, artworks by Italian masters, a series of upper-story rooms called the “Gate of Heaven," and an elaborate marble mosaic inlay and graffito floor.

The Siena Cathedral has very limited accessibility. Wheelchair users can skip the front stairs and enter the building via a dedicated ramp to the left of the building. However, once indoors, you’ll find much of the building inaccessible to wheelchairs, including the Museum, Crypt, and Baptistry.

While there isn't a strict dress code at the Siena Cathedral, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly out of respect for the site’s religious significance. It’s best to cover your shoulders and ankles and avoid wearing revealing clothing or beachwear. Generally, short sleeves are okay, but tank tops and short skirts are not.

The Siena Cathedral holds many treasures, but the marble mosaic inlay and graffito floor is the most renowned. Renaissance painter and architect Giorgio Vasari called the elaborate floor, which comprises 56 panels depicting scenes and figures from Greek-Roman myths and the Old Testament, the "most beautiful, largest, and most magnificent floor ever made."

Yes, you can climb to the top of the Siena Cathedral for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. The climb involves ascending a series of narrow staircases and is rewarded with unbeatable vistas from the cathedral's rooftop. This ascent usually requires a special access ticket.