Special Palio Day Tour (2 July and 16 August)

The tour starts in front of our office in the main square of Siena, Piazza del Campo. The square is exactly where the Palio takes place twice a year. An expert local guide will introduce you to this fascinating tradition telling about the rules of the race and the whole celebration that lasts four days, starting from the assignment through a lottery of the horses to the Contradas (districts of Siena). You will also learn about the traditional rivalry between Contradas to which everyone in Siena participates from birth.

The guide will recount the story and explain the traditions behind this celebration, from the very middle of Piazza del Campo, for you to experience the unique atmosphere that enlivens the entire city. You’ll accompanied to one of the districts, where you'll get the chance to witness one of the most important pre-race rituals: the blessing of the horse.

The tour will and in front of the Cathedral (Duomo), where the members of the Contrade dressed in medieval costumes will start the historical parade with the show of flags for the Bishop of Siena.