Piazza del Campo
Siena's iconic shell-shaped medieval square, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the city's vibrant culture and history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Piazza del Campo
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Siena's iconic shell-shaped medieval square, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the heart of the city's vibrant culture and history.
"More intriguing than I imagined, and surprising! So beautiful, so panoramic, so much history."
Book Palio tickets early
For the Palio, secure tickets or standing room spots months ahead. Prices skyrocket closer to the date. :admission_tickets:
Wear comfy walking shoes
Cobblestone streets and the piazza's incline demand comfortable footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Shell-Shaped Piazza
Piazza del Campo
Siena's iconic medieval square, famous for its unique shell shape and sloping design.
Palio di Siena Horse Race
Piazza del Campo
Witness this thrilling, centuries-old bareback horse race held twice a year with intense local rivalry.
Torre del Mangia Views
Adjacent to Palazzo Pubblico
Climb this towering medieval bell tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Siena and the Tuscan countryside.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for the Palio
Comfortable Shoes are a Must
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Palio tickets early
For the Palio, secure tickets or standing room spots months ahead. Prices skyrocket closer to the date. :admission_tickets:
Wear comfy walking shoes
Cobblestone streets and the piazza's incline demand comfortable footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Enjoy a drink with a view
Sip wine at a cafe overlooking the piazza for a quintessential Siena experience. :wine_glass:
Visit outside Palio dates
Experience the piazza's charm without the intense crowds by visiting on non-Palio days. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Palio tickets early
For the Palio, secure tickets or standing room spots months ahead. Prices skyrocket closer to the date. :admission_tickets:
Wear comfy walking shoes
Cobblestone streets and the piazza's incline demand comfortable footwear. :athletic_shoe:
Enjoy a drink with a view
Sip wine at a cafe overlooking the piazza for a quintessential Siena experience. :wine_glass:
Visit outside Palio dates
Experience the piazza's charm without the intense crowds by visiting on non-Palio days. :camerawithflash:
Climb Torre del Mangia
The climb is worth it for unparalleled views of Siena and the surrounding Tuscan hills. :hiking_boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Piazza del Campo for its stunning medieval architecture, unique shell shape, and vibrant atmosphere. The historical significance, especially its role in the Palio, is a major draw. While some find the piazza crowded and dining options pricey, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with many describing it as the captivating heart of Siena.
"What a place, this must be one of the best original urban squares ever. A photo taken a 100 years ago would probably look very much the same. Siena is such a beautiful town, if you are in Tuscany go and see for yourself. Love it."
Alexander Ott
"A visit to Siena isn't complete without seeing Piazza del Campo. This enormous piazza sits at the center of the town and is lined with fantastic bars and restaurants. It's common to see people relaxing in the square, enjoying a moment to read or reflect. We grabbed some happy hour drinks and spent our time watching the mix of tourists and locals pass through."
Flo Yeow
"Wow.. okay if I add comments on more sites here in Siena they ar so far going to all be starting with wow! Love the design, feel, architecture and atmosphere. September is a great time to come, weather is great, humidity is tolerable and at night it is beautiful. The people are lovely the restaurants in this spot are of course geared for tourists, they are good and convenient, but make sure you try ones from the alleyways too while here. You will notice the photos are empty of people! Well, its AI work at play; these were taken at sunrise because of jet-lag. Come along during normal hours and I guarantee you it is FULLL! The whole city is lovely to walk. For sure worth the visit..."
Gaith Bader
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piazza del Campo is the central heart of Siena, Italy. If arriving by car, park in designated lots outside the historic center and walk in. Public buses also serve Siena from major cities like Florence. Once in Siena, it's a short walk to the piazza, with clear signage guiding you through the charming medieval streets.
While the piazza itself is pedestrian-only, Siena is well-served by local buses that stop near the historic center. From these stops, it's a pleasant walk to Piazza del Campo.
The most convenient way to travel from Florence to Siena is by bus, which takes about 1.5 hours and drops you close to the city center. Trains are also an option but often require a change and a bus transfer to reach the heart of Siena.
No, Piazza del Campo is located within Siena's historic ZTL (Limited Traffic Zone), meaning cars are restricted. You'll need to park in designated garages outside the city walls and walk or take a local bus.
Yes, taxis are available in Siena and can be a convenient option for reaching the city center or specific points within the ZTL, though they will drop you at the nearest accessible point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Piazza del Campo is a public square, so there is no entry fee to simply walk around and enjoy its atmosphere. However, if you wish to climb the Torre del Mangia for views, a separate ticket is required.
Entry to Piazza del Campo itself is free. Costs would only apply if you choose to visit attractions within or around the piazza, such as the Torre del Mangia or the Palazzo Pubblico.
As an open public space, Piazza del Campo is accessible 24/7. However, surrounding shops, cafes, and attractions will have their own operating hours.
The Palio di Siena horse race takes place twice a year: on July 2nd and August 16th. These are extremely popular dates, and the piazza will be packed.
Tickets for the Palio can be purchased through official channels or authorized resellers. It's highly recommended to book well in advance, as they sell out quickly and prices can be high.
📸 📸 Photography
For iconic shots, capture the entire shell-shaped piazza from various angles, especially during golden hour. The view from the top of Torre del Mangia offers a stunning panorama. Look for unique perspectives from surrounding buildings or alleyways. 
Drone usage is generally restricted in historic city centers and public spaces like Piazza del Campo due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local ordinances before flying a drone.
Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light with fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the piazza's architecture. Late afternoons and evenings provide a warm, golden glow and a lively atmosphere.
Yes, you can take photos during the Palio, but be prepared for extremely dense crowds and limited maneuverability. Consider a telephoto lens to capture the action from a distance.
Focus on the intricate details of the Palazzo Pubblico, the Fonte Gaia fountain, and the medieval brickwork of the surrounding buildings. The striped bell tower of the Duomo is also a prominent feature in many shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Piazza del Campo has numerous cafes and restaurants, many offering outdoor seating with views of the piazza. While convenient, these can be pricier. Explore the side streets for more authentic and potentially better-value dining options.
Don't miss 'Pici,' a thick, hand-rolled pasta, often served with a rich ragu or cacio e pepe. Also, try 'Panforte,' a traditional fruit and nut cake, and 'Ricciarelli,' almond biscuits.
While specific recommendations vary, look for artisanal gelaterias away from the main tourist drag for the most authentic flavors. Many small shops in the surrounding alleys offer delicious options.
Yes, venture a few streets away from the main piazza to find trattorias and pizzerias offering more budget-friendly meals. Look for places filled with locals.
Absolutely! Many cafes around Piazza del Campo offer coffee, pastries, and aperitivo (pre-dinner drinks with snacks), perfect for people-watching.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider climbing the Torre del Mangia if your children are up for the stairs; the views are a great reward. For a break, find a gelato shop nearby. The overall atmosphere is welcoming, and the historical setting can spark their imagination about knights and medieval times.
💰 Budget Travelers
While cafes directly on the piazza can be pricey, venturing a few streets away reveals more affordable trattorias and pizzerias. Prioritize free activities like exploring the streets and enjoying the piazza's ambiance over expensive tours.
💖 Couples
As the sun sets, the piazza takes on a magical glow, perfect for a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand. Consider climbing the Torre del Mangia together for breathtaking sunset views, or find a quiet trattoria in the side streets for an intimate dinner. The timeless beauty of Siena provides a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Palio di Siena: More Than Just a Race
Attending the Palio requires significant planning. Tickets for the best vantage points, such as balconies or windows overlooking the piazza, are expensive and sell out months in advance. For a more budget-friendly experience, you can stand in the center of the piazza, but be prepared for immense crowds and a potentially obstructed view. The atmosphere leading up to the race, with parades and historical reenactments, is almost as captivating as the race itself.
If you're not visiting during Palio dates, you can still feel the historical significance of the piazza. Imagine the roar of the crowd and the thunder of hooves as you stroll through the same space. The Palio is a testament to Siena's enduring traditions and the strong sense of community among its residents.
Exploring Piazza del Campo: Architecture and Atmosphere
+1The atmosphere in Piazza del Campo is palpable. During the day, it's a hub of activity, with locals and tourists alike enjoying coffee at the numerous cafes, children playing, and street performers adding to the lively ambiance. The golden hue of the brick and the surrounding architecture create a warm and inviting setting, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
+1Beyond its visual appeal, the piazza is the social and historical heart of Siena. It's where the city's life unfolds, from daily gatherings to the dramatic events of the Palio. The sense of history is profound, with every stone seemingly whispering tales of centuries past.
+1The Torre del Mangia: Siena's Iconic Tower
Climbing the Torre del Mangia involves ascending approximately 400 steps, a journey that is both a physical challenge and a rewarding experience. The narrow, winding staircase can be a bit claustrophobic at times, but the panoramic views from the top are absolutely spectacular. From this vantage point, you can take in the entire Piazza del Campo, the intricate rooftops of Siena, and the rolling Tuscan countryside stretching out to the horizon.
Visiting the Torre del Mangia offers a unique perspective on Siena's layout and its stunning natural surroundings. It's a perfect spot for photographers and anyone looking to appreciate the city's beauty from above. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and allow ample time for the climb and the breathtaking views.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit