You will be sojourning in the tiny Medieval town of Siena located in the heart of Tuscany. The Palio of Siena is one of the most important medieval traditions celebrated by the Sienese since the 1200's! The Palio is a horse race run twice every summer around the main piazza. Be one of the few to enjoy a full immersion into this tradition with Rebecca Brooks, owner of Capritime Tours, Inc. Rebecca has lived, studied, and worked in Siena and enjoys the rare privilege of being a full-fledged member of one of the contrada (neighborhoods) of the city.
Siena
Your arrival in Siena coincides with the preparations leading up to the day of the race. Emotions run high as the big day approaches and each neighborhood is decorated with flags, lights, and emblems representing the contrada. Rebecca will keep you informed on what's going on: which contrada is friend or enemy of the other, who is favored to win, and all the details regarding the Palio and the contrade.
Not only will you learn about the intricate details about life in the contrada and the Palio, you will enjoy a historical walk through the medieval city, stopping in the world-famous Piazza del Campo and the Piazza del Duomo. Featured in the tour are guided visits to the museum of Palazzo Pubblico, or Town Hall, to see the masterpieces by Simone Martini and Ambrogio Lorenzetti, and to the Duomo, where we will view where the winning horse will be blessed after the August 16th race. Also included in the tour is a private visit to one of the contrada museums to see the victory banners and memorabilia from past years.
Your Capritime Connection "The Palio of Siena" tour package includes the following:
- Suite accommodations inside the medieval city walls
- Walking tours in Siena
- Introduction to the Palio horserace
- Private guided visit to one of the district's Palio Museum
- Pre-Palio dinner in the Contrada del Nicchio
- Museum entry fees during group excursions
- Breakfast and lunch or dinner daily (wine included) per itinerary
Departure dates:
June 30 - July 3
August 14 - 17Trip length: 4 days / 3 nights
Price: Euro 1,600.00
Many of our guests have chosen to combine the Palio tour with our "Tuscany Art & Wine" tour. Contact our office for details.
