Via Francigena - Palio di Siena August 16th

[Purky]

It's been a while since I posted, but guys, I really need some guidance. Currently in the middle of planning three weeks on the Via Francigena in August: Lucca to Rome. Tickets are booked and Sandy Browns Cicerone guide has already been delivered.

But here's the thing. I've made a rough draught of the first few stages and it looks like I'll walk into Siena on the 14th of August at the end of the afternoon. I have already been contemplating to spend an extra day there, so I should be leaving Siena bright and chipper on the morning of the 16th. But the Palio di Siena is happening on the 16th of August too, at 7 p.m.

I'm very conflicted. Should I take my time (and also lose a day after Siena!) to stay for the mad spectacle? Prices for accommodation are already ridiculous now, but still maybe sort of affordable on the outskirts of the city centre. On the other hand I hate to book ahead so long in advance because Murphy's Law.

Plus I'm not big on crowds, and this race draws thousands. But being this close to this festivity in space and time feels suspiciously like a rather blatant nudge from the cosmos. It'd be sort of rude to ignore that. I need some fresh outlooks, maybe some insight from someone who has experienced this circus in earlier years.

In short: what would you do?

 

[Corned Beef]

If you walk out of Siena on 15th how far would you get by the night of 16th? And can you get back to Siena on 17th for the day then return that day to the VF. Seems a shame to miss it. And it also seems a shame to spend a lot of money hanging around in Siena for a couple of days until 17th.

Siena is fantastic but you can't really see anything for all the tourists and bus tours these days. Best to get to and get back if you can for the day.

 

[henrythedog]

The actual event lasts about a minute, you’ve got zero chance of getting close enough to see it and the crowds will beyond imagination. The atmosphere for a couple of days will be outstanding.