The Palio occurs just twice each summer, on July 2nd and August 16th, and the pure excitement of this festival that has survived almost intact from the Middle Ages is unequaled in Italy.
Because Siena’s lovely medieval buildings were never torn down and replaced with modern structures, UNESCO has declared its medieval city center a World Heritage Site of incomparable beauty. The medieval city was divided into 17 contrade, or city wards, and in the 13th century these neighborhoods held competitions to establish which contrada would reign supreme.
Today the Palio is not just a medieval horse race, it is a festival rich in tradition that is televised live on national TV. For the citizens of Siena, this event is all about neighborhood pride and rivalry; the Palio is also the continuation of a medieval tradition associated with religion and honor.
On race day, you have reserved tickets to watch the event from one of the many private balconies overlooking Piazza del Campo. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that no Italy lover should miss.
Do you want to discover more about Siena and the Palio festival? If so, we recommend adding a few extra days in Siena. For this and other custom options, please email us at info@selectitaly.com or call 800-877-1755 for a personalized Palio Festival quote.
Special Select Italy Palio di Siena Packages
★★★★★ Castel Monastero – Tuscan Retreat & Spa
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Ombrone Valley, Castel Monastero is a beautifully restored medieval village dating back to the year 1050. Surrounded by vineyards, chestnut forests, and cypress trees, this refined resort offers a peaceful countryside retreat paired with privileged access to one of Italy’s most iconic events.
Package Dates
Palio – July 2, 2026: 3-night stay July 1–4
Palio – August 16, 2026: 3-night stay August 15–18
Package Includes
- Superior Room accommodation with daily buffet breakfast
- Private transfer from Florence Airport to Castel Monastero
- Welcome amenity in your room upon arrival
- One traditional dinner for two at the Contrada Restaurant (wine not included)
- Round-trip transfer to Siena on the day of the Palio
- Reserved viewing space overlooking Piazza del Campo
- Cocktails and refreshments during the afternoon race
- Light buffet dinner following the event featuring local specialties
- One 50-minute spa treatment per person (facial or body)
- Access to the “Acqua Benessere” indoor spa area
Pricing available upon request
★★★★ Four Points by Sheraton Siena
Located just outside Siena’s historic city center, Four Points by Sheraton Siena blends modern comfort with easy access to the medieval heart of the city. This option is ideal for travelers seeking comfort, value, and excellent race viewing.
Package Dates
July 2, 2026 Palio only
Package Includes
- 3 nights’ accommodation (June 30–July 3, 2026)
- Daily breakfast
- Official Palio race ticket for July 2, 2026
- Balcony seating between Fonte Gaia and the San Martino Curve, offering frontal views as the horses race past after the start
Pricing available upon request
★★★ Hotel Minerva – Siena Historic Center
Hotel Minerva is located within Siena’s historic city walls in the Contrada della Lupa (She-Wolf district), just a short walk from Piazza del Campo. Its central location makes it an excellent choice for guests who want to be fully immersed in Siena’s historic atmosphere.
Package Dates
July 2, 2026 Palio only
Package Includes
- 3 nights’ accommodation (June 30–July 3, 2026)
- Daily breakfast
- Official Palio race ticket for July 2, 2026
- Balcony seating between Fonte Gaia and the San Martino Curve, with direct frontal views of the race
Pricing available upon request
Enhance Your Palio Experience
Guests staying at any of the above hotels may further enhance their experience with premium race viewing options or additional services—details available upon request.
Plan Your Palio di Siena Experience
Whether you choose a luxury Tuscan countryside retreat or a centrally located hotel in Siena, Select Italy specializes in creating seamless and unforgettable Palio experiences.