should you book?
No, you don't need to book to go up the tower or see the Duomo.
You need to buy tickets to enter the tower and since it is narrow to go up and down the tower you may end up having to wait for the way up/way down to begin.
price
Torre del Mangia
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8 euros a day
Il Duomo
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Free, unless you want to do a tour in which case prices will vary.
Il Palio
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Free to watch in the piazza del campo, it gets really crowded so grab a spot early.
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If you want to watch it in the stands or from a balcony you have the book months in advance and be ready to pay, it gets pricey
is it worth it?
Each of these three sites are worth seeing in Siena. The view from the tower is spectacular. The Palio is the oldest horse race in the world and full of adrenaline.
what to do in Siena
Climb la Torre del Mangia
Visit il Duomo
Watch the Palio di Siena (July 2 and August 16 every year)
what to bring
Torre del Mangia
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To climb the tower, closed shoes are best, and a dress that isn't too short, you have to climb up some steep ladders
Il Duomo
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Must cover shoulders and no short shorts, skirts, or dresses. Most cathedrals in Italy require below the knee to be covered.
Il Palio
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If you will be watching in the piazza del campo you will be there for a long time so be sure to wear something comfortable
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Bring snacks, stay hydrated (not too much you don't want to lose your spot for a bathroom break and it gets super crowded)
food
Siena has lots of great restaurants. I recommend Antica Osteria da Divo, Antica Trattoria Papai, or Porri One.
If you are staying in Siena in the evening, Piazza del Campo is a great place to have an aperitivo or drink, it's more expensive than other places but the view is worth it.
Check out the "food" section on the Tuscany Page for more information.
how to get there
Parking in Siena is easier than other cities like Florence. An easy parking lot to get to from the highway (autostrada) is the Santa Caterina parking lot.
Most parking lots are 2 euros an hour and are open 24 hours, if you plan on parking overnight most have a flat rate of 35 euros a day.
