We can stay in Siena for 7/2 for Palio. Has anyone done that? Where did you stay, and did you sit i the main piazza for it?
Does anyone know how to get seats -- chairs for it? Could we stay in a hotel and watch from there?
thanks!
ps we have 2 teens, 13 and 16, I think they'd be itnterested in it--anyone have an opinion re this?
thanks.
Susie
Susie,
For information on the Palio see http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/tuscany/siena_palio.htm
Lots of luck finding anywhere you can sit and watch. The bleachers are expensive and sellout a year in advance.
Yes, good luck. It's sort of like the Super Bowl for that city. You'll be competing with all the locals and hordes of tourists for the viewing spots.
Susie,
My wife and I visited Siena this past August with our two teenaged daughters. We were there prior to the real race but did witness two of the practice runs. We were wandering toward the piazza and got "locked" out just prior to the start of a run. This was perfect as we were elevated and could see the race better than some people inside.
The crowds are amazing. So plan your walking tours according as weel as your meal time.
I would suggest arriving early and determining where you want to stand on the inside of the "track" to witness the horses as they flash by you.
Emjoy the whole experience not just the race.
I haven't been, but I have heard that one fascinating aspect of this is the blessing of the horses. Apparently, the day before the race (I think), the horses are paraded into a chapel to be blessed.
