Italy’s most famous horse race takes place twice each summer in Siena’s Piazza del Campo. Dating back to 1283, on 2 July and 16 August, Siena’s shell-shaped Piazza del Campo becomes the track for a bareback horse race. The city of Siena comprises 17 historical neighbourhoods each with their individual identity, known as contrades. During Palio, 10 of these contrades race against each other with the winning contrade becoming the site for celebration.

While the race itself lasts about 90 seconds, the festival has four days of rituals and traditions to build up the race day anticipation. The selection of horses, known as the Tratta, occurs three days before the race through a lottery system. Jockeys, hired by each Contrade, train twice daily at 9am and 7:30pm. The most significant training session, the general trial, takes place the evening before the race.

In the evenings before Palio, each Contrade hosts open-air dinners, with rituals conducted to bless the jockeys and horses. On race day, a parade called the Corteo Storico takes place in Piazza del Campo, which features drummers and locals dressed in mediaeval costumes.

It is an incredible time to visit Siena and witness the vibrant atmosphere and traditions come alive.

How do I get tickets to the Siena Palio?

The Siena Palio is a free event and does not require tickets to attend. However, entrance is allocated on a first-come-first-served basis, so it is generally recommended to arrive at the Piazza del Campo at least three hours before the race to get a good view of the race.