This July, the world-famous Palio di Siena returns — also known as the Palio di Provenzano. Held every year on 2 July in Piazza del Campo, this iconic bareback horse race draws thousands of spectators from across Italy and abroad. But how can you take part? Which contrade (districts) are running? Here’s everything you need to know about the July 2025 Palio di Siena.
Which districts are competing in the July 2025 Palio?
Only ten of Siena’s seventeen historic districts take part in each edition of the Palio di Provenzano: five automatically qualify, and five are selected by lottery — due to penalties, the districts of Aquila and Torre are excluded this year.
The ten contrade competing in the 2025 Palio di Provenzano are:
- Lupa
- Oca
- Bruco
- Valdimontone
- Pantera
- Tartuca
- Chiocciola
- Drago
- Selva
- Istrice
How much do tickets for the Palio di Siena cost?
Watching the Palio live is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. There are two main ways to view it:
- Free: You can watch the race (and its trial runs) from the centre of the piazza. However, space is limited, and once the maximum capacity set by the City of Siena is reached, entry is closed.
- Paid: You can reserve a place in one of the grandstands or balconies, which offer a better view and more comfort.
But how much do tickets actually cost? Prices vary depending on the location, as there is no central ticket office — each tribune has its own pricing. Typically, tickets start from around €250, but can exceed €500, especially if bought as part of a tour package with accommodation.
How to watch the Palio di Siena on TV
Can’t be in Siena on 2 July? No problem — you can still enjoy the spectacle from home. The race is broadcast live on La7, the national Italian television channel, with extensive coverage and commentary from the historic city centre. You can also find additional content on La7’s digital platforms.
Which is the “more important” Palio — July or August?
As the Palio is held twice a year, you might wonder whether the Palio di Provenzano (2 July) or the Palio dell’Assunta (16 August) holds more significance.
For the districts and their supporters, both races are equally important. Every victory is celebrated with the same intensity, and the rivalry between districts runs high during both events.
The only difference lies in the origins: the Palio di Provenzano officially began in 1656, while the August Palio was introduced in 1701 to honour the Assumption of the Virgin Mary.
What do the winners receive?
Just competing in the Palio is an enormous honour for both jockeys and districts. The main prize is not money, but a hand-painted banner, known as the drappellone (also called cencio in local dialect).
This unique artwork — a long rectangular painting on cloth — is designed especially for each race. At the start of the following year’s Palio events, it is returned to the City of Siena for posterity.
Living in Siena
Siena isn’t just a tourist hotspot — it’s also an incredibly livable city, known for its well-preserved medieval centre and famous Palio. The compact, walkable city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the heart of Tuscany.
Living in Siena offers a high quality of life, with excellent public services, quality schools, reliable healthcare, and good transport links, making it ideal for families, professionals, and students alike.
Want to know where to live in Siena? Discover the best neighbourhoods and explore the latest properties for sale or rent on idealista:
