Palio Customs, Celebrations & Race Day Experience, Siena

On the afternoon of either July 2 or August 16, you'll meet your private guide and, together, step into the heart of Siena's colorful, biannual event, with roots dating back to the 13th century. The fun kicks off with a visit to one of the city's 17 contrade (historic neighborhood-based wards), where you'll get to see a blessing ceremony of that district's Palio horse. This emotional, symbolic ceremony brings together residents, jockeys, and supporters in each of their respective 10 competing districts as they gather to wish the horse good fortune before the race.

You'll stroll Siena's medieval alleyways next, noting the increasing festive energy: streets fill with fans, contrada flags flutter overhead, and banner-bearing revelers parade between the neighborhoods. All the while, your guide will provide the context needed to understand the symbols, gestures, and customs that shape the day.

As race time nears, you'll make your way to Piazza del Campo, the shell-shaped square that has hosted il Palio since the 17th-century, alongside the participating contrade and the crowds converging on the now dirt-covered square. Here, you'll experience every stage of the spectacle, from the elaborate historical parade of participants in period costume that winds its way through the streets to the final customs leading up to go time. Your guide will help shed light on every tradition and ritual at each stage, until finally the nine jockeyed horses are aligned in the mossa with the 10th entering at a full gallop, signaling the start.

You'll look on for about 90 seconds of heated competition as bareback riders and their horses lap the square three times; the first horse, with or without its jockey, determines the winner. Then, as the final rider crosses the finishing line and the square begins to shift with the outcome, your guide will help you exit the crowd and return with you toward the agreed endpoint.