What better way to immerse yourself in the country’s culture than by experiencing some of the spectacular festivals and events Italy has to offer? Whether it’s venetian masquerade balls, tickets to the opera or an A.C. Milan football match, here at Citalia we can make it happen.
Wine lovers will love attending the Chianti Classico Expo, held in Greve, Tuscany. This is wine tasting with a difference. The piazza is full of booths offering wines for your appraisal, all you have to do is buy a ticket and a wine glass. Alternatively, if your tastes are more musical, one of our many opera breaks could be for you. Experience the jewel of the opera season at the Arena di Verona and enjoy pieces by some of the most famous composers in Italy.
The Palio di Siena horse race is an iconic event marked in Tuscany’s cultural calendar twice every year. It’s a cornerstone of local tradition and custom where 10 horses, each representing a different district, race around the historic Piazza del Campo in the blink of an eye. But what makes this event stand out is the electric atmosphere, celebrations, parades and the opportunity to join in a centuries-old tradition.
We’ll help you make the most of your trip to Siena to see the race, whether it’s finding the best hotel such as Hotel Garden - a luxurious 17th Century residence - or combining your holiday to the Palio di Siena with other fascinating cities. Florence and the Uffizi Gallery are just an hour away, and Pisa and Bologna are also close by.
When does the Palio take place?
There are two races each year. The first, the Palio di Provenzano, is held on 2 July, while the second, the Palio dell’Assunta, takes place on 16 August. Historic parades move through the piazza late afternoon, before the race starts. It is advised to be inside the Piazza by 4pm.