To those complaining about the costs to watch or "experience" the Palio (hotels, dinners, etc.): have you ever wondered where the money to organise (and how!) the whole thing comes from? Well, the average Sienese has paid for it more than any single tourist, including those watching the event from a private window and staying in a hotels for three... more

It was a fantastic esperience to see the PALIO. I was guest in the "Contrada della Chiocciola" (the snail) and all their folks are so kind and friendly. I really enjoy it. more

We spent two days in Sienna in Oct. 2007and a good part of them inside the walls of this magnificent city. We particularly enjoyed wandering the narrow winding streets and stopping to look at the small shops and enjoying the many place to eat. The residents of the town and where they live in this walled city were just amazing.... more

I had a guided tour of the Piazza del Campo and it was so interesting. The atmosphere in this place is terrific. The walled town of Siena is surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Siena is a spectacular little city with so much history, culture and natural beauty. Highly recommended. more

The palio is absolutley unique. Seeing these horses belting around the medaieval square is simply breathtaking, as is the pagentry and build up. Having read earlier reviews it seems silly to criticise the event for catering towards the Sienese rather than tourists. This is what for me makes the whole event that much better. Its not commercialised at all. There... more

I recently attended the Palio from August 13th-17th, 2007. I traveled alone and thought I would give my impressions on the big event. Although many other trial runs and things were going on during my stay in Siena, I decided to only attend the actual race. However, just being in the town, I saw contrade singing in the streets, flag... more

The Palio is a medieval horse race that's run around the centre of Siena's beautiful "Campo" square twice a year, at the beginning of July and in Mid-August.The races are the highlight of the year for the Sienese, and the self-esteem of the rival neighbourhoods in the town depends on the outcome of this chaotic, 90-second race. On the face... more

The Piazza del Campo is the main square in Siena and home to the famous il palio horse race, which is a twice yearly event, where riders representing the 15 contrada (or districts) race 2 laps on horses decked in each contrada's colours, bareback to the cheers of the crowd. The square itself is shaped like a fan that slopes... more

This is a pretty cool place to be in, but it's not really that entertaining unless you're there to watch the Palio. Makes for a nice hour or so stop though. There are lots of good restaurants around, and a lot of gelaterias. It can get pretty crowded with all of the people sunbathing. (: more