Hedonistic Hiking, The Palio of Siena

Written by 
Siena during the Palio Siena during the Palio Image supplied by Hedonistic Hiking

Join Hedonistic Hiking for this walking holiday which centres around one of the greatest spectacles in the Italian calendar - the Palio of Siena.   The horse-race is the apex of months of preparation in the city and the Palio itself is a four day event.   This tour helps you to get below the surface of this fabulous tradition and immerses you in the rituals and folklore of the festival.

Departure dates: 12th - 18th August 2012

Download the Palio of Siena Tour Information below

The Palio of Siena Itinerary

DAY 1:

The tour starts in Pisa (train station or airport) followed by a 2 hour drive to Siena.  Stay for 6 nights in the historical centre in Il Chiostro di Carmine, a former Carmelite convent dating from the 14th century.   Ahead of dinner a short introductory talk about the Palio before strolling into the Campo, the beautiful central square, for an aperitif and dinner in a local Trattoria.

DAY 2:

Today is the start of the “Quattro Giorni del Palio”.  A leisurely walking tour of the city will take in one of the Contrade museums before converging in the Campo to see the horses being allocated to their Contrade.  This important event is attended by many local Sienese and accompanied by much fanfare. Light lunch in a local wine bar.  Later an informal and fun cookery class with a local chef and a relaxed dinner at a local farm.

DAY 3:

Visit one of the private art collections in the city before heading out for a guided walk in the shady hills of the Montagnola.  Picnic in the open countryside. Free time in Siena in the afternoon.   After an early dinner an open-air opera performance (performance to be confirmed).

DAY 4:

A guided hike explores the beautiful area of the Merse River, one of the most pristine areas in the region. Opportunities to cool off in the clear waters before a leisurely picnic in the countryside. Return to Siena in the afternoon and watch the penultimate trial race before joining with the Contradaioli for a pre-race dinner in the streets of the city.

DAY 5:

An early start for those who wish to see the Bishop of Siena leading Mass in the chapel on the Piazza del Campo. A guided walk through the streets to absorb the excitement of the day. In the afternoon attend the blessing of the horse at one of the Contrada chapels before the procession sets off from the Duomo. From your seat on the square watch the medieval parade followed by the race itself.  Dine in the square after the race and enjoy the continuing festivities.

DAY 6:

Free morning in Siena. Later in the day head out of the city for a picnic in the countryside followed by a visit to some beautiful private gardens. Magnificent final dinner in a renowned restaurant.

DAY 7:

Return to Pisa.

View the embedded image gallery online at:
http://www.deliciousitaly.com/italy-vacation-offers/tours-and-packages/longer-stays/palio-of-siena-break.html#sigProGalleria1676f8bb2b

Images from various Hedonistic Hiking Tours

Last modified on Friday, 13 January 2012 18:28
Published in One Week Vacations
Download attachments:
More in this category: « Hedonistic Hiking, Florence and Eastern Tuscany Classic Car Week Vacation along the Amalfi Coast »
back to top

© Copyright 2012. Delicious Italy

Over 10 years online, 'Delicious Italy' has become the trusted resource for anyone planning an independent trip to the Italian regions and looking to discover authentic cultural, gastronomic and historical travel experiences.

Follow Deliciousitaly on Foodspotting Follow Deliciousitaly on Pinterest