Gate of Heaven (Porta del Cielo) is your chance to explore the hidden upper levels of the Duomo, where you can walk above the nave and step out for city views.
It is the perfect “from above” view of Siena Cathedral.
The name comes from the biblical image of Jacob’s Ladder, an ascent toward “the gate of heaven.”
It’s not a quick add-on you squeeze in at the end. Plan it as a separate part of your visit, especially in busy months.
What you’ll see on the route
From the tour, you’ll enjoy a unique view of the Duomo and Siena from above.
- Cathedral Views: Walk above the nave, looking down on the intricate marble floor and the golden starry vault.
- Siena City from Above: Enjoy panoramic views of the terracotta rooftops, medieval cityscape, and the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
- Unique Architecture: Get up close to the dome and admire sculptures and architectural details typically hidden from public view.
Pro Tip: To make the most of the experience, we recommend visiting the Cathedral’s interior first, as the view from above makes more sense once you’ve seen the nave from ground level.
Gate of Heaven tickets and what’s included
“Porta del Cielo” is the Gate of Heaven (rooftops) route, and it’s a different ticket from the standard Cathedral entry and the OPA SI PASS.
Gate of Heaven is sold as one ticket that covers:
- access to the Cathedral roofs (Porta del Cielo)
- access to the museums/sites in the Duomo complex
- a free audio guide on your smartphone
Cost of ticket
Adult ticket (12+ years): €21
Child ticket (7 to 11 years): €6
Infant ticket (up to 6 years): Free
Note: Gate of Heaven (Porta del Cielo) tickets are available from 1 March to 6 January.
Where to buy: book online (best choice). You can also buy at the ticket office, but only if there are unbooked slots still available for your preferred time.
Opening times (by season)
Gate of Heaven runs from early March to early January, following the Cathedral’s seasonal schedule.
Summer (June-August) is the busiest season, so booking ahead is more important, and you’ll want to arrive earlier in the day. Winter is quieter, but hours are shorter, so don’t leave it too late.
| Period | Mon-Sat | Sun & Holidays |
| 01 Mar – 02 Nov | 10 am – 7 pm | 1:30 pm – 6 pm |
| 03 Nov – 24 Dec | 10:30 am – 5:30 pm | 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm |
| 26 Dec – 06 Jan | 10 am – 7 pm | 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm |
During the marble-floor uncovering period (From 27 June to 31 July and from 18 August to 15 October), the timing is Mon to Sat, 10 am to 7 pm, but on Sunday/public holidays, entry is earlier, 9:30 am to 6 pm.
Last entry: they stop admitting visitors 30 minutes before closing. Treat that as your real cut-off.
Want a simple plan for what to prioritise at Siena Cathedral? Go through our what to see guide.
Rules that save your time on the day
A few simple choices can make your Gate of Heaven tour experience smoother:
- Go light on bags: Small day bags move through security faster. Bulky backpacks or large bags won’t be allowed.
- Wear stable shoes: Comfortable, close-toed shoes with non-slip soles are a must (no high heels, slippers, or sandals). The route involves stairs and narrow walkways, and safety is key.
- Secure your phone/camera: For safety, wear it on a strap or tie it to your wrist when walking above the nave.
- Watch your step: Pay close attention to ceiling heights and passageways; some areas are tight.
- Children: Always hold children by the hand to ensure safety, especially near the walkway height.
Additional Guidelines
- Health Warning: The tour isn’t recommended for visitors with heart conditions or dizziness, due to the elevated heights.
- Smoking: Smoking is strictly prohibited in all outdoor areas and at the lookouts.
- Fire Safety: In case of emergencies, be aware that stopping on the winding staircase is allowed only briefly to drop off/pick up personal items, such as umbrellas.
How long does it take
Plan for about 45-60 minutes for the Gate of Heaven itself, including check-in, getting your group together, and moving through the route at a safe pace.
The longer time issue is what you pair it with:
- Gate of Heaven and Cathedral interior: plan around 1.5-2.5 hours total, depending on how long you spend inside the Duomo.
- Full Duomo day (Cathedral, Gate of Heaven, and Museum/Crypt/Baptistery/viewpoints): set aside 3-5 hours so you’re not rushing between sites.
Tip: Because Gate of Heaven runs on timed slots, treat it like an “appointment” in your day. Plan the rest of your visit around that time, rather than trying to squeeze it in at the last minute.
Who it’s best for
Book it if you like:
- viewpoints
- behind-the-scenes building access
- seeing the Cathedral from a different angle
Skip it if you struggle with:
- stairs
- tight spaces
- time pressure
Are you ready to book a trip to Siena Cathedral? Compare ticket options here.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the questions visitors ask most often before booking Gate of Heaven.
Is Porta del Cielo the same as the Gate of Heaven tour?
Yes, it’s the same route, just the Italian name.
Is this ticket only available online?
Not only. You can buy online, and the ticket office may sell it too if there’s remaining availability.
Is Gate of Heaven included in the OPA SI Pass?
No, treat it as separate unless your ticket clearly states roofs/Porta del Cielo is included.
What happens if I arrive close to closing time?
You may be turned away. Entry stops 30 minutes before closing.
Can I do it without seeing the Cathedral interior first?
You can, but it lands better if you’ve already seen the nave of Siena Cathedral from below.
Is it good for kids?
Yes, for many families, but only if your child is okay with stairs and keeping pace.