Guide of Siena, Italy

Siena Events, Italy

This section shows you some of the most interesting and charming events that take place in and around the city. If you wish to visit Siena during one of these events, we recommend that you book your hotel in Siena, in advance, especially if the period of your stay coincides with the famous Palio, which attracts hundreds and hundreds of visitors from all over the world each year.

Palio di Siena – July 2 and August 16

Italy's most famous horse race goes back to far off times: each summer, starting in the 14th century, a big horse race was organized that crosses the entire city, starting from Porta Camollia and ending at the Duomo. Around 1500, all 42 “contrade” of the time were called upon to take part in the Palio, each characterized by different colors and standards. In the 17th century, the event was transformed, from a horse race across the city to a race around Piazza del Campo. Only 10 of the several contrade could take part, in order to avoid dangerous accidents. The Palio is still an event that involves all the Siena inhabitants, who get busy with the preparation many months before the race, which attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world each year.

The olive oil week – February

In February there is a traditional gathering in Siena for extra-virgin olive oils and quality wines from Tuscany, organized by the Enoteca Italiana and the National Oil City Association. A whole week is dedicated to oil and wine, during which workshops, free tasting and conferences are organized.

Ferie delle Messi, in San Gimignano – July

A celebration from the Medieval period that is held in the streets and squares in the city: stalls are set up with food and wine products such as oil, wines and saffron, and also with local crafts products; there are story tellers, traveling theaters, archers and lots more too. On the last Sunday afternoon of the festival, a horse-riders’ parade is organized with a final tournament.