After a welcome briefing and introductions, you’ll begin exploring the historic city and attend your first trial in Piazza del Campo, getting an immediate taste of the Palio atmosphere. You’ll soak in the rising excitement and visit one of the city’s contradas participating in the big race.

The day ends with a great pizza in the magical setting of Piazza del Campo.

A day full of energy and iconic moments.

Time to explore Siena with our cameras, capturing the city’s vibrant life at its most exciting moment of the year.

You’ll witness the “Prova Generale,” starting with the dramatic police cavalry charge, followed by the key trial race. In the evening, you’ll join a traditional open-air rehearsal dinner in a contrada, sharing food, songs, wine, and lively discussions about the next day’s race.

The day of the Palio begins with powerful rituals and thrilling anticipation. You’ll rise early to capture the city’s excitement, then attend the intimate blessing of the horse in Luca’s Contrada — a sacred moment sealed with the command: “Go and come back victorious!”

Later, the historic pageant fills Siena’s streets with drummers, flag-bearers, medieval costumes and the chariot carrying the coveted Palio banner. The race itself is brief, fierce and unforgettable: three breakneck laps around the square, where skill, danger and passion collide.

Our final day begins with a slower rhythm, letting you breathe in Siena’s unique atmosphere after the intensity of the Palio. Before departure, you’ll wander through the quiet contrada streets, now returning to everyday life yet still glowing with emotion from the race. It’s a perfect moment to capture the city’s gentle revival and reflect on the experience. When it’s time to leave, we’ll assist you with travel arrangements to Rome, Florence, Pisa or Bologna for your journey home.