Siena is another of my favourite places to visit in Italy. By car it is relatively easy to reach from Bagni di Lucca. On a recent trip in that direction I missed the turn off from the A1 heading from Florence because the exit name has changed from Florence Certosa to Florence Imprunetta. These things happen.
If you are using public transport to get from Florence to Siena, take the bus ( the SITA bus leaves from beside the station). It is quicker than the train and the bus drops you close to the centre of town.
There are lots of fabulous things to see in Siena. It is possible to buy, for the measly sum of 10 euro, a ticket to 5 sensational sites in the town. The ticket price includes the Duomo, Museo dell’Opera, the Baptistry, the Crypt and the Oratorio di San Bernadino, more than enough for a couple of days of excellent viewing. The ticket last for 3 days, so you have time to see each place well.
the Duomo
I think the Duomo in Siena is one of the most spectacular in Italy. Take the time to look at the incredible facade.
the amazing facade
the facade of the Duomo
The interior is spectacular.
the interior
Once inside don’t miss the exquisite Piccolomini library. Be warned, you may never want to leave.
in the Piccolomini Library in the Duomo
The Duomo is worth the ticket price all by itself. The Baptistry is located below the church. Look for a wonderful set of steps nearby.
the steps from the Duomo to the Baptistry
The Baptistry is beautiful. It is not all that big, but it is full of gorgeous things.
the ceiling of the Baptistery
the Baptisimal Font in the Baptistry
Photos were not allowed in the Crypt and the Museo dell’Opera, which contains lots of Pisano original sculptures from the Duomo. These have been removed from the facade of the building to preserve them from the elements. It is great to be able to see them close up.
The Oratorio is filled with religious art, just in case you haven’t had your fill. There are also some spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside from the windows of the upper rooms. The Oratorio is a distance from the other buildings, but it is worth the walk, partly because of all the great things you will see on the way. Wandering the streets of Siena is a treat not to be missed.
one of the rooms in the Oratorio
in the Oratorio
I also recommend taking the walking tour in Siena. It is great to walk with a local and hear some interesting tales about this incredible city.
The ticket office is beside the Duomo, or at least it was when I was there last. Things change, as does the price occasionally, but this ticket is a bargain. If you only have limited time you could still cover most of these sites in a reasonable time.
Click here to see more on the walking tour, here to see more on the Duomo and here to see more on the Piccolomini Library. There is a category for Siena with more photos of my wanderings over several visits.