August 15: Ferragosto in Tuscany in Siena
Ferragosto in Siena means Palio dell’Assunta!
For all Italians, August 15th is the day of Ferragosto, while for the city of Siena this date is essentially the Eve of the Palio dell’Assunta!
On this hot summer day the wonderful Tuscan city becomes an authentic kaleidoscope of colors, emotions, sensations and tourists who are in the historic center cannot fail to assist and become protagonists of a ritual that has been happening for several centuries.
Ferragosto in Siena is the third of the Four days of the Palio, that is to say the billboard of practices, events and initiatives that precede the running of the real race in Piazza del Campo. Because of this, the city comes alive with an agenda full of events that we are going to get to know:
- 09:00 In Piazza del Campo 4th round for the Palio dell’Assunta on August 16th
- 10: 00-12: 00 In some contradas free morning opening of the Museums of the Contrada
- 16: 00-17: 30 In some districts free afternoon opening of the Museums of the Contrada
- 17:00 Blessing of the Palio in the Cathedral
- 19:15 In Piazza del Campo general practire round of the Palio
- 20:00 Dinners on the eve of the Palio in the districts
The aforementioned dinners in the districts are also open to people not from Siena, but to participate you must book in advance at the Contrada you prefer.
On August 15 in Siena there will also be extraordinary openings, free access and guided itineraries in some of the main state museums and major sites of interest in the city. In recent years, for example, many tourists have taken advantage of the proposals of the National Art Gallery and the Archaeological Museum.
Those who want to be in the open air and spend a few hours of relaxation can go for a nice walk at the Medici Fortress, at the Giardini della Lizza, at the Orto dei Pecci or have a nice Ferragosto picnic in Piazza Unità d’Italia. Those who want to take a dip in the water can consider going to the Municipal Pool in Piazza Amendola or to the Acquacalda Pool in Via Fausto Coppi.
What to do for Ferragosto in the province of Siena
On the hot days around Ferragosto, the province of Siena comes alive with village fairs, popular festivals and summer events of various kinds.
Regarding the main gastronomic events, the beautiful village of Montepulciano comes alive with the culinary event Tre Berte in Festa, while the pleasant hamlet of Contignano, in the municipality of Radicofani, organizes the Raviolo Festival.
Both places deserve to be visited also for other reasons: Montepulciano, in fact, is home to a spa, has a beautiful historic center and has been the location of famous cinematographic works such as “The English patient “and” Twilight”. Reaching Contignano, on the other hand, means taking a dip in the fragrant summer nature of Siena.
To stay in the open air and spend some moments of great relaxation, it is also possible to access various spas such as Montepulciano itself, but also Bagno Vignoni, Rapolano Terme, Chianciano Terme, San Casciano dei Bagni, Bagni di San Filippo and the Terme di Petriolo. However, keep in mind that the waters that supply these thermal sites are quite hot (from 36° to 40°) and perhaps for a sunny day like August 15th they are not exactly ideal for cooling off.
Some cooler places to swim in the province of Siena are the Merse river, in Brenna, in the municipality of Sovicille, the so-called Masso di Poggibonsi, as well as the Vene di Onci and the Fluvial Park of the Elsa, both in the municipality of Colle Val d’Elsa.
Other beautiful outdoor destinations are the Chianti Sculpture Park, in the locality of Pievasciata, in the municipality of Castelnuovo Berardenga, the Horti Leonini in San Quirico d’Orcia and the entire territory of the picturesque Val d’Orcia. For wine lovers, however, the perfect destination is the Chianti and therefore the towns of the ancient League such as Gaiole, Radda and Castellina in Chianti.
Experience a fantastic Ferragosto in Tuscany in Siena!
Spending the days around August 15 in Siena is a safe choice that guarantees emotions, surprises and fun, but also relaxation, beauty and culture.
To live a great relaxation experience, one of the best options is to book accommodation at Villa Agostoli, a cozy farmhouse with swimming pool and apartments equipped with every comfort. The great advantage offered by this structure is that it is completely surrounded by greenery, but it is also a few minutes drive from the center of Siena. For the preparation of tasty fruit salads, excellent salads and tasty panzanelle, guests can also enjoy the organic fruit and vegetables produced on the farm.
Another beautiful structure with swimming pool is the Hotel Garden, a renowned 4-star hotel which also has a panoramic terrace with cocktail bar and typical restaurant, vast green spaces and a large free parking for cars and motorbikes. The Wi-FI internet connection is free and available throughout the hotel.
For those who want to stay close to the historic center and for those who want to attend the preparations for the Palio dell’Assunta, an excellent overnight solution is the Hotel Italia, 3-star hotel located only 300 meters on foot from Porta Camollia, one of the main access areas to the central city area. The property has various types of rooms with a characteristic Love Room for couples.
Finally, for a romantic Ferragosto holiday in Tuscany, do not hesitate to sleep for one or more nights in the delightful charming suites of the Relais degli Angeli. An overnight stay in these charming rooms will give you the opportunity to share sweet, loving and absolutely unforgettable moments with your partner.