Overview
The Palio of Siena is a historic horse race held twice a year in the Piazza del Campo in Siena, Italy. It is a traditional event that dates back to the 17th century and is a significant part of the city's cultural heritage.
The Palio is a deeply rooted tradition in Siena, symbolizing the city's history and community spirit.
Location
Address
Il Campo, Siena, Tuscany
Neighborhood: Centro Storico
Coordinates
43.318800, 11.333300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
July and August
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild
- • Spring decorations
- • Garden displays
summer
hot
- • Extended event hours
- • Outdoor performances
autumn
cool
- • Fall colors
- • Harvest displays
winter
cold
- • Holiday lights
- • Winter decorations
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for best seats
- Bring ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate
- • stairs
- • crowds
Medical facilities: first aid available
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
EUR
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable shoes, traditional Sienese colors if participating, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing, high heels
Booking Tips
- • 3 months
- • official website
- • 48 hours
- • available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Palio di Siena Official App
Size: 60 MB
Features: Map, Event schedule, Tickets, Audio guide
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Rest areas
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Florence Airport
Distance: 75 km
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 1 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, community spirit
Historical Significance: Important events happened here, deep-rooted tradition
Insider Tips
- Free entry early morning
- Best food at back entrance
- Local cafes offer great views
Local Recommendations
- • Try local panforte
- • Ask for guide Marco
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Italian, English, French
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Piazza del Campo
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for the horses
Result: Great shot of the race
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Siena Cathedral
Distance: 300m
Walking: 5 min
Type: Cathedral
Torre del Mangia
Distance: 200m
Walking: 3 min
Type: Tower
Santa Maria della Scala
Distance: 400m
Walking: 7 min
Type: Museum
Reviews
Based on 2,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book online"
- "Visit early"
- "Great views from the tower"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (16)
Florence Day Trip: Chianti Wine Tasting, Siena, San Gimignano
Siena walking tour with lunch & Chianti wine
PRIVATE Full-Day Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti from Florence
Premium Private Tour to Siena, Pisa, San Gimignano and Tuscany
First Time Siena Medieval Tuscany Private Half Day Tour
Private Siena San Gimignano Tour from Florence with Winery Lunch
Private Off Road Wine Tour in Chianti from Siena
PRIVATE Full-Day Tour of Pisa, San Gimignano and Siena from Florence
Private Montalcino and Pienza Tour from Siena
Private wine tour of Chianti
Tuscany in 4-Day with Florence, Cinque Terre, Winery & Siena
"Ramble Through The Rolling Hills Of Chianti" with lunch and 2 wine tastings
2 hour Siena Private Guided Walking Tour
PRIVATE Full-Day Siena and Chianti Classico Wine Experience.
PRIVATE TOUR: Savor Exquisite Wines: Brunello & Nobile Wine Tour
PRIVATE TOUR: Florence & Chianti in one day with Lunch and Tasting in Winery
Quick Info
Available Tours
0
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
2,000
Adult Entry
$10 (for museum)