This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase by clicking on these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the disclaimer for more information.
Tuscany is filled with picturesque medieval hilltop towns that make the region a pleasure to explore and to photograph – the list of places to see is huge. One town that would definitely be on the top of the list is Siena – a city that I don’t think I could ever get sick of. Its beautifully preserved old town has kept its medieval feel, and I could really just spend days and days wandering around its narrow cobblestone streets. The heart of Siena is its Duomo – a must see – and if you explore the entire Cathedral complex you might come across some of the best views in Siena on top of the Panorama del Facciatone.
Panorama del Facciatone: The Best Views in Siena
For the best views in Siena you have to head to the Panorama del Facciatone – a panoramic terrace that gives complete 360 degree views out across the town.
Panorama del Facciatone
The Facciatone is actually the facade of an incomplete cathedral extension that was commissioned in the 14th century. The Siena Cathedral was meant to be extended to become the largest in Europe, but was abandoned in the late 14th century, which therefore left the facade that is there today.
The panoramic terrace can be reached from the Museo dell’Opera by climbing up a very narrow spiral stair case. From the top you are treated to the best views in Siena. Here’s what you can expect to see:
Piazza del Campo
Siena Cathedral
Have you been to Siena or anywhere else in Tuscany? What was your favourite place?
How to visit the Panorama del Facciatone
The Panorama del Facciatone is located in Piazza del Duomo, parallel to the Duomo. Access is through the top of the Museo dell’Opera. A long, steep, winding staircase leads up to the top of the Panorama del Facciatone so it is not possible to visit for those who cannot climb lots of stairs. Tickets must be purchased to visit, either on the day or in advance. A good option is the Opa Si Pass which gives access to all attractions within the Siena Cathedral Complex, including the Museum and the Panorama del Facciatone.
I have been to Tuscany but never Siena, it looks beautiful. Maybe next time!
Ayngelina recently posted..Food Friday: A Chef’s Cozumel
Hi Ayngelina, Siena is a beautiful place and definitely worth visiting if you’re ever in Tuscany.
Dean Wickham recently posted..Photo of the week: Golden Triangle, Thailand
I loved Siena! It’s the only place I saw in Tuscany though. Great photos!
Christy recently posted..OT Surf Apparel Update!
Thank’s Christy. If you could only visit one place in Tuscany, I think you made a great choice! I definitely recommend that you get back and see more though 🙂 Cheers
Dean Wickham recently posted..Temples of Laos: Pha That Luang, Vientiane
The photos definitely depict an “old world” feel and it looks like you had amazing weather.
Pamela recently posted..2012 Week #13
Hi Pamela. The old town of Siena is beautifully preserved, allowing it to keep that old medieval feel. And yes we were very lucky with the weather the entire time that we were in Tuscany.
Dean Wickham recently posted..Temples of Laos: Pha That Luang, Vientiane
Love the last photo!
Hey Stephanie, that’s one of my favourites too.
Dean Wickham recently posted..Temples of Laos: Pha That Luang, Vientiane
My favorite place in Tuscany is Montepulciano!
cheryl recently posted..Travel Bloggers Go Wild … Riding Donkeys in Umbria, Italy.
Hi Cheryl. I never made it to Montepulciano but I have heard so many good things about it. I will definitely make sure to visit on my next trip to Tuscany!
Dean Wickham recently posted..Temples of Thailand: Wat Chedi Luang, Chiang Saen
[…] of the best things to do in Siena is to climb to the top of the Panorama del Facciatone, an old facade of an unfinished extension of the beautiful cathedral nearby. A very tight spiral […]
[…] Tickets: Tourists and visitors wishing to explore the cathedral’s interior must purchase a ticket. These can be purchased at the cathedral entrance or online through the official website, where available. Tickets are currently €8 in high season. We purchased a combination ticket called the Opa Si Pass which gave us access to the Cathedral and all surrounding sites including the crypt and panoramic terrace (for the best views of Siena). […]