Spending Ferragosto in Siena means experiencing one of the most intense and fascinating moments of the year. The city fills with energy, colours and traditions thanks to the days of the Palio dell’Assunta, while the historic centre becomes the perfect place to stroll, visit museums, discover artistic masterpieces and stop for a meal to enjoy Sienese cuisine.
If you are planning a day in the city on 15 August, this mini guide will help you choose what to do in Siena on Ferragosto and where to eat without moving away from the heart of the centre.
Ferragosto events in Siena
Ferragosto in Siena is not just any day: it falls right in the middle of the atmosphere of the Palio di Siena on 16 August, dedicated to Our Lady of the Assumption. In the days leading up to the race, the city comes alive with a rich calendar of events, trials in Piazza del Campo, Contrada moments and opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Palio dell’Assunta – the trials
One of the most anticipated events for those visiting Siena on Ferragosto is the General Trial of the Palio dell’Assunta, which takes place on the evening of 15 August in Piazza del Campo. It is the final trial before the race on 16 August and offers an exciting opportunity to see horses, jockeys and Contrade up close in an atmosphere already full of anticipation.
Even without attending the official race, walking through Siena during these days allows you to experience a unique atmosphere: colourful scarves, drums, flags and songs fill the streets of the centre, making Ferragosto one of the best occasions to discover the city’s most authentic soul.
Culture and museums
In addition to the events linked to the Palio, Ferragosto is also an excellent opportunity to visit some of Siena’s most important cultural sites. Many museums and monumental complexes offer special openings or dedicated hours during the period around 15 August, but it is always advisable to check official updates before your visit.
- National Picture Gallery of Siena – One of the city’s most important museums, it houses an extraordinary collection of Sienese painting from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Ideal for those who want to discover Duccio di Buoninsegna, Simone Martini, the Lorenzetti brothers and other great masters.
- Siena Cathedral – An unmissable stop for anyone spending Ferragosto in Siena. The Cathedral, with its marble façade, decorated interiors and famous floor, is one of the city’s most fascinating symbols.
- Santa Maria della Scala – An ancient medieval hospital transformed into a museum complex, located in front of the Cathedral, offering a journey through art, history, archaeology and architecture.
- Civic Museum of Siena – Located inside Palazzo Pubblico, in Piazza del Campo, it preserves fundamental masterpieces of Sienese art history, including Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s frescoes of Good Government.
- Torre del Mangia – For those who love panoramic views, climbing the tower offers one of the most beautiful views over Siena and the surrounding countryside. During the days of the Palio, opening hours may change, so it is best to check before planning your visit.
Where to eat on Ferragosto in Siena
After a morning spent among museums, walks through the historic centre and the atmosphere of the Palio, it is time to choose where to eat in Siena on Ferragosto. On such a busy day, the advice is simple: it is best to book in advance, especially if you want to have lunch or dinner near the main streets of the centre.
Ferragosto is in fact one of the busiest periods of the Sienese summer. Tourists, Contrada members and visitors arrive in the city to experience the days of the Assumption, and finding a free table can become difficult.
Dinner on the evening of the General Trial
The evening of 15 August is linked to the Dinner of the General Trial, one of the most heartfelt moments on the eve of the Palio. A special atmosphere fills the city and the Contrade: the streets come alive, tables fill up and Siena prepares for its most anticipated day.
For those visiting the city, this is the ideal opportunity to enjoy an authentic evening, perhaps choosing dinner in the historic centre before or after a walk through Piazza del Campo, the Cathedral and the illuminated streets of the city.
Ferragosto lunch at Pier Pettinaio
If you are looking for a place to have lunch on Ferragosto in Siena, Pier Pettinaio is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy authentic dishes in a welcoming setting, just a few steps from the heart of the city.
Ferragosto lunch is the right moment to slow down, enjoy good company and savour the cuisine of the local area: simple recipes, recognisable flavours and carefully selected ingredients accompany a special day in the centre of Siena.
Discover the available proposals and take inspiration from our menu: view the Pier Pettinaio menu.
Book your table at Pier Pettinaio now
During Ferragosto and the days of the Palio dell’Assunta, Siena welcomes a very high number of visitors. For this reason, available tables can run out quickly, especially at lunchtime and during the most requested time slots.
If you have already decided to spend Ferragosto in Siena, secure your table at Pier Pettinaio and enjoy a tasteful break in the heart of the city, surrounded by Sienese tradition, summer atmosphere and authentic hospitality.
Book your table now: availability is limited during the days of the Palio.