Antiques and collectibles stalls in the square behind the Palazzo Pubblico.
The antiques market in Piazza del Mercato is a monthly event in Siena, in the Tuscany region of Italy, held in the square behind the Palazzo Pubblico, a few steps from Piazza del Campo. It takes place on the third Sunday of the month, except in August, and gathers dealers and collectors selling antiques and collectibles in one of the most historic parts of the city. Unlike the weekly general market, which serves everyday shopping, this event is aimed at browsers and collectors. Stalls typically offer vintage prints and engravings, ceramics, old books, small furniture pieces, silverware, costume jewellery, postcards and assorted bric-a-brac. The mix includes genuine older items and plenty of secondhand or decorative goods, so quality varies widely and few pieces are valuable. Souvenir trinkets are rare, which gives the market a more authentic character than the shops around the Campo. Bargaining is an accepted part of antiques trading in Italy. Buyers commonly ask for a discount, particularly when purchasing more than one item, and a polite counter-offer is normal, while dealers selling clearly priced small items may hold firm. Payment is mostly in cash and card acceptance is uneven, so euros in hand help. Items of significant age or value may require export documentation when taken out of Italy, and buyers of anything that appears old and important should ask the dealer about paperwork. Tax-free shopping refunds for non-EU residents do not generally apply to private stall transactions. The square is compact, so the stalls fit into a short walk, and the setting between the Palazzo Pubblico and the surrounding medieval buildings is as much of an attraction as the goods. Crowds are moderate, thickening around late morning as visitors to the historic centre pass through. There is no food court, but the cafes, bars and restaurants around Piazza del Mercato and Piazza del Campo are close by for coffee, lunch or a snack. Because the market is held only once a month, travellers interested in it should check that the date falls within the visit.
| Hours | Third Sunday of the month, except August |
|---|---|
| Address | Piazza del Mercato, 53100 Siena |
Location
Piazza del Mercato, 53100 Siena
Highlights
- Monthly antiques market behind the Palazzo Pubblico
- Vintage prints, old books, ceramics and small antiques
- Historic medieval setting steps from Piazza del Campo
- Held on the third Sunday of each month except August
Tips for visiting
- Check the calendar, since the market runs only on the third Sunday and not in August.
- Arrive in the morning for the best selection before dealers pack up.
- Politely negotiate, especially when buying several items.
- Ask dealers about export paperwork for older or valuable pieces.
- Carry cash, as not every dealer accepts cards.
When to visit
Late morning on the third Sunday of the month offers the fullest stalls, while early arrival brings fewer crowds and first choice of items.
Accessibility
Piazza del Mercato is in the historic centre, where paving can be uneven and the surrounding streets are sloped. Wheelchair users may find access to the square from Piazza del Campo easier than from other directions.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Siena antiques market held?
It takes place on the third Sunday of each month, except August.
Where is the antiques market?
It is held in Piazza del Mercato, the square behind the Palazzo Pubblico in the historic centre.
Can buyers negotiate prices?
Yes, bargaining is normal with antiques dealers, particularly for multiple items, though small items with clear prices may be firm.
What kinds of items are sold?
Stalls typically offer vintage prints, ceramics, old books and small antiques and collectibles.