Why an epic horse race is the perfect excuse for a last-minute trip to Siena
The upcoming Palio di Siena (Aug 16) is one of the most exciting horse races on the planet, a sporting event shrouded in civic pride and pageantry. It’s also a fine excuse for a trip to the Italian city.
Go now
The hectic and hugely exciting race is staged around the Campo (1) – the city’s shell-shaped main square. Horses representing 10 of the city’s 17 contrade (districts) race around the campo. It’s a living tradition dating from medieval times, and one of Italy’s greatest historic events – so it should be on everybody’s bucket list.
Siena - City map
Turn up early enough and you can see the event for free from the central compound (for full details, read our guide to the event). There are flight connections to Siena from the UK via Florence with British Airways, Vueling and CityJet, or via Pisa with many more airlines (see skyscanner.net).
Stay here
The Grand Hotel Continental (2), housed in a 17th-century palazzo, is the city’s only five-star hotel and benefits from a great location. Doubles cost from about £178 per night. Cheaper, but also occupying an old palazzo in the city centre, Antica Residenza Cicogna (3) has frescoed rooms and antique furniture. Doubles cost from about £80.
Walk here
One of the great joys of Siena, Florence's great rival, is exploring its side streets and alleyways on a whim. Although the streets within the city walls are steep, you will never be too far away from the campo or the Duomo (4). Navigate by them and you can’t go wrong.
See this
The black and white marble Duomo is not only one of Italy’s most visually captivating buildings, but is also stuffed with art treasures – including works by Michelangelo, Donatello, Pinturicchio and Duccio.
Shop here
The main shopping street is the Via Banchi Di Sopra (5) – with lots of leather goods and souvenirs on offer. For speciality foods, try Via di Città (6) where Manganelli 1879 (named after the year it was founded) is the best delicatessen in town.
Drink here
Take in the evening atmosphere on the campo itself. There are lots of drinking haunts to choose from, but probably the most convivial local option is the Bar Il Palio (0039 577 282055).
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Eat here
There are many excellent trattorias in Siena, but the smart option for traditional Tuscan cooking – including lots of fish and seafood options – is Tre Cristi (7), located a couple of hundred yards north of the campo. Menus start at about £30-£60 per head.
Off the map
You are in the heart of the Chianti region, so how about some wine-tasting? A wealth of excellent wineries offer tours – and the city’s official tourist office (terresiena.it) can help you to choose the most suitable and offer guidance on opening times.
