It is our 30th wedding anniversary in 2009 and we would like to see the Palio in Siena. I have found a company that has an eight-day trip, but this is too long and is very expensive. Is there anyone who can organise the visit (with seats at the event) without taking out a second mortgage? Patricia Tilley, Surrey

Sunday Times travel expert Richard Green responds: The Palio horse racing festival dates back to medieval times and takes place around the main square - the Piazza del Campo - on July 2 and August 16 each year.

It's an incredible spectacle, and full of colour and quirk, not least in the fact that a horse can still win the three-lap race even if it crosses the finish line rider less.

Tailor made Italy specialists can help with a trip to Sienna specifically for the Palio, but it'll always be a bit pricey. Pressure on the limited space for grandstands, and for every inch of balcony space around the main square, is huge, and means that even a "cheap" seat cost about £325pp ­ rising to over £500 for a space on a balcony perched at the start/finish point.

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For example, Kirker Holidays (020 7593 2283) has three nights from £909pp (2008 prices), with British Airways flights from Gatwick to Pisa, rail travel between Pisa and Siena, three nights' B&B at the three-star Pensione Palazzo Ravizza, and grandstand tickets to view the race. Or try Citalia (08700 200 2004), and Sunvil (020 568 4499).

You could save money and do it yourself. Rather surprisingly, it's possible to stand in the Piazza for free, but as the racetrack encloses the Piazza, you'll have to squeeze in before 4pm (the race finishes at about 8pm). It's pretty raucous in there and you'll be in direct sunlight most of the time too. And of course, you need to book your travel and hotels a long way in advance.

For more information on the race and viewing options, see www.paliotours.com, or www.initaly.com.

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