Anyone attended Palio? Can you see the race and not be in the center of the square? Like across the street, etc. I have researched getting balcony, grandstand, terrace seats but the tickets are expensive. Has anyone stayed in an apartment, B&B, etc. that you could
view the race from? Thanks.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32353 posts
Kathy, I've never attended Il Palio but I have been in Siena during one of the awards ceremonies related to the event. It was a horrendous "crush" of people and visibility wasn't good while amongst the crowd (taller people would undoubtedly fare better). If I ever happen to be in Siena during at that time, the method I'd use would be to arrive early to "stake out a spot", perhaps somewhere on the "uphill" side" (as Il Campo slopes downwards towards City Hall). I wouldn't want to be in the centre. The race only lasts for about 90-seconds, so don't be late!
Posted by
Gettysburg, PA
1589 posts
All the hotels & B&Bs jack up their rates ( rightfully so ) during both races. Do not plan on seeing much unless you pay the Piper. The ambiance, however, is wonderful no matter where you stand & what you actually see of the race.
Posted by
Singapore
354 posts
hi Kathy, I see from your other post that you'll be in Siena a few days before the race. It's hard to get a good position in the Campo for the race, but you might get a better view at one of the 'trial races' (prova) that are run in the days leading up to the actual race. These tend to be less crowded. Ask at the tourist office for the times, or ask any Sienese, and go early to stake out a good spot. I was right up at the barriers for one of the trial races years ago. The atmosphere on race day is pretty special, I think that's what people will remember - more than the race itself! You need to get to Il Campo hours before the race, before they close access. What my friends and I did on race day was start at a contrada, follow the procession of people through the streets to the cathedral, and then quickly headed to Il Campo. Later that night, we went to the winning contrada's main square to watch their celebrations. I generally don't like crowds, but being in the crush of people in the square that day was truly unforgettable.
Posted by
Orlando, Florida
676 posts
Hi Kathy, I went a few years ago and it was fun. We got there about 2.5 hours ahead of time, and got on the uphill side of the piazza also. We got a fairly good view. Bring a towel or something to sit on, my friend had his I-pod and we listened to it and talked. They do sell water and drinks but I'm not sure where a bathroom was. Bring your camera! Afterwards, as we were walking back to dinner, the winning team came along and there was lots of yelling and singing, it was fun! Oh, we just drove in for the day. I don't think you can be across the street and see anything, you'll see that when you get there. But it was totally worth doing.