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“My only difficulty is explaining it to people who ask “how was your holiday?” ! How can you explain the preamble to the Palio, along with the excitement of the day?
We got thoroughly caught up in it, and it became clear to us as we spoke with Italians later on in the holiday how privileged we were, not only to have seen it from where we did (undoubtedly the best seats in the house), but also be involved with the contrada dinner etc”
"The medieval pageantry and atmosphere lived up to our long held expectations. First class organisation"
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Attending the Siena Palio 2012
HIGHLIGHTS: Our 3 night Siena Palio 2012 break includes Palio tickets for balcony or terrace viewing of the Palio horse race, Attending the Palio trials, Participation in Contrada open air dinner, Guided introduction
Participating in the spectacle of the Palio Siena Horse Race is an opportunity to peer into the heart and soul of Italy. 700 years of history, Italian rivalry and passion is there for everyone to see and experience on 2 spectacular days every year. The Palio occurs on the 2nd July and the 16th August. An exciting and unusual short break.
Spectacle of the Palio 2012
DAY 1 30th June or 14th Aug
Fly to Pisa or Florence. Self Drive to Siena for your Palio di Siena break.
Arrive at Pisa airport where you will pick up a hire car to drive to your hotel in Siena or surrounding area to start your Siena Palio 2012 weekend. We recommend Palazzo Ravizza, conveniently situated in Siena and with its own parking but we have options in the Chianti Countryside if you prefer. Rest of day is at leisure.
DAY 2 1st July or 15th Aug
Palio Trials, Contrada open air dinner
Morning at at leisure. This afternoon have a guided introduction to Siena and the Palio prior to taking your positions on a terrace with great views over Siena. Witness the proves or pre Palio trials where the jockeys test out the horses in order to select the chosen one for race day.
After this event participate in one of the authentic open air dinners hosted by the ladies of the different Contrada to celebrate and anticipate the Palio race scheduled for the following day. This rustic event captures the Palio build up and many of our clients will adopt the contrada for the Palio race.
After this event participate in one of the authentic open air dinners hosted by the ladies of the different Contrada to celebrate and anticipate the Palio race scheduled for the following day. This rustic event captures the Palio build up and many of our clients will adopt the contrada for the Palio race.
DAY 3 2nd July or 16th Aug
Attend The Siena Palio 2012
Morning is at leisure. Early afternoon your guide will walk you through the streets to ensure you witness the traditional build up to the event and the very colourful historical parade through the centre of the town. You might even get to see a blessing of the horse in a Contrada church!
Balcony positions for viewing of the Palio are in very short supply and we are fortunate that we have secured some with a superb vantage point.
Please see the short video opposite to see The Palio
We have three options for viewing the Siena Palio.
1. On the Terrace you can see 70% of the race from a birds eye view of the Palio Horse race.
2. The Balcony is right on the square with a superb vantage point, overlooking the Campo at the Casato bend so you have the perfect view from which you will be able to see close up the Palio Horse race and immerse yourself in the passionate atmosphere and unfolding spectacle of the Palio Siena Horse race
3. For those looking for a private viewing experience we can investigate on request VIP private apartment viewing of the Palio in Siena. As these are extremely limited early request for these locations are critical.
After dinner (not included) we suggest you visit the victorious Contrada of The Palio where you can immerse yourself in the celebration with the people. Flags, colours and singing will be the order of the night.
Balcony positions for viewing of the Palio are in very short supply and we are fortunate that we have secured some with a superb vantage point.
Please see the short video opposite to see The Palio
We have three options for viewing the Siena Palio.
1. On the Terrace you can see 70% of the race from a birds eye view of the Palio Horse race.
2. The Balcony is right on the square with a superb vantage point, overlooking the Campo at the Casato bend so you have the perfect view from which you will be able to see close up the Palio Horse race and immerse yourself in the passionate atmosphere and unfolding spectacle of the Palio Siena Horse race
3. For those looking for a private viewing experience we can investigate on request VIP private apartment viewing of the Palio in Siena. As these are extremely limited early request for these locations are critical.
After dinner (not included) we suggest you visit the victorious Contrada of The Palio where you can immerse yourself in the celebration with the people. Flags, colours and singing will be the order of the night.
Day 4 3rd July or 17th Aug
Drive back to airport for flight home after your Palio di Siena break.
Have a leisurely breakfast prior to your drive back to Florence or Pisa for your flight home after experiencing one of Italy's most famous and enduring cultural events - the Siena Palio.
NOTE:
This break has limited availability so an early booking is essential.
Please see "Download detailed itinerary" below for some suggestions as to where to eat in Siena.
NOTE:
This break has limited availability so an early booking is essential.
Please see "Download detailed itinerary" below for some suggestions as to where to eat in Siena.
Make an enquiry
Call 01722 744695
Price per person: From £1,148
Includes Flights, 3 nights Accommodation with breakfast at Palazzo Ravizza, Activities, Car Hire, Guided Introduction, Contrada Dinner, Terrace Palio viewing
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