Palio di Siena: Excitement in the Heart of Tuscany
⁍ Once in a lifetime ◦ Europe ◦ Italy ◦ Culture ◦ Cuisine ◦ Families ◦ Couples
One of Italy's most exclusive events.
Twice a year, on July 2 and August 16, Siena becomes the setting for a centuries-old ritual unlike any other. The Palio di Siena is not a sporting event, but an intensely lived tradition in which honor, rivalry, and pride converge in the iconic Piazza del Campo. Each contrada, a historic district, competes not only for victory, but for prestige that resonates for generations.
With Pegase, you won’t experience the Palio from a distance, but from the city’s most coveted spots: private apartments, windows, or terraces offering an exclusive view of the entire square. As the historic procession passes by and the excitement builds, you’ll experience Siena as few ever do: from the front row, surrounded by local connoisseurs, and in complete comfort.
Palio di Siena: a thrilling experience
This once-in-a-lifetime experience goes beyond the race itself. Accompanied by a local Palio expert, you’ll discover the soul of Siena during a guided walking tour, where the history, rituals, and rivalries of the contrade come to life. The day before the race, you’ll attend the dress rehearsal and join an exclusive dinner within one of the ten participating contrade, offering a rare glimpse into a world that normally remains closed to outsiders.
After the race, a private dinner awaits in the historic center, where stories and Tuscan cuisine come together. You can also enjoy refined wine tastings featuring the finest wines of Tuscany, guided by a sommelier, in a stylish apartment or an atmospheric Etruscan cave. Those who wish to experience the Palio in all its facets can extend the program with additional days and private access to the rehearsals, including buffet service.
A private view of Piazza del Campo from an exclusive space
Guided by local Palio experts to gain insight into traditions and rivalries
Exclusive access to a contrada that is normally closed to visitors
Gastronomic experiences at exceptional locations in Siena
Our travel tip
“Do you really want to get a feel for the Palio? Extend your stay to include the days leading up to the race and attend the rehearsals as well. The excitement builds slowly, and you can feel the city coming alive more and more each day. It makes race day itself all the more impressive.”
Amber De Cramer, Product Manager for Italy
Enjoy this unique experience on a tour of Italy.
Discover even more travel experiences
Sicily Tour: Classic Island
Experience the highlights of Sicily: from ancient Syracuse to the volcanic vineyards near Mount Etna.
The Venice-Simplon-Orient-Express
Step aboard the iconic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. A timeless train journey through Europe in lavishly decorated carriages.
Truffle Hunting in Croatia: A Sensory Experience
Accompanied by an experienced truffle hunter and a trained dog, you’ll head out into nature for a private truffle hunt.