The hotel is modest but very charming and authentic. It feels like being part of the Sienese community—like staying in a private home. The hotel is located just two minutes from the Piazza del Campo, on one of the city’s main streets (Banchi di Sotto). Our room faced the street, which naturally puts you right in the thick of things—including two victory parades by the winning *Contrada* (district), complete with drumming troupes, in the middle of the night. We had expected a standard double room but found ourselves in a room with two double beds and a single bed—a bit unusual... The elevator was unique, too—worth the stay all on its own!
It doesn't get any closer to authentic Italian daily life than this. Everything moves fast—almost hectically—yet without stress; it is lively, and every moment is savored. If you want to be close to the real Italian lifestyle—if that is exactly why you are visiting the Palio, wanting to immerse yourself in the mysteries of this ancient, living tradition and become part of it alongside the locals—then the Piccolo Etruria is the perfect place for you. If, however, you prefer a generic hotel atmosphere—prioritizing standardized amenities over individuality—you might be better off looking elsewhere.
My wife and I were absolutely delighted; for me, the Piccolo Etruria embodies the warmth of the Sienese people, the mystique of the Palio, and the feeling of belonging to something greater—one big, extended family.
