Treasures of Tuscany & Umbria

Arrive in the medieval city of Siena, where you will feel as if you are stepping back in time. At Siena’s heart is Il Campo; the central piazza and where the Palio horse race takes place twice every summer. After checking in at your hotel, head here for a coffee or glass of chilled wine and let yourself soak up the Italian ambience and relax into ‘la vita bella’.

Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Italy’s must-see attractions. The city is well-known for its wine and cuisine, art, museums and Gothic architecture. Take time this morning to explore this charming historic town.

This afternoon, take the train (payable locally, approx.1hr duration) on a picturesque journey through classic Italian landscapes to Montepulciano, from where you will receive a transfer to your hotel, for your welcome meeting.

Option 1: Transfer to Montefollonico, an amazing village with terrific views over the Valdichiana. Take a relaxing stroll through vineyards and olive groves.

Walk: 14 km (3h30)

Option 2: Transfer to Pienza, a village said to boast the most delicious pecorino in the whole of Tuscany—why not stop in at one of the shops and take some home! On your return walk to Montepulciano you will come across Montichiello, a stunning hamlet with fortified walls. Montichiello is the ideal spot to rest and enjoy a lovely lunch.

Walk: 15 km (4-4h30)

Leaving Montepulciano, walk a short distance through the iconic Tuscan countryside of yellow fields and hilltop villages to Acquaviva. At around 12h30-13h00 take a transfer to Cortona, where you can find a quiet spot and relax in the Tuscan sun or perhaps a shady place.

Cortona, located at 600m altitude, is characterised by steep narrow streets and medieval architecture. Pay a visit to the distinguished Etruscan Academy Museum, founded in 1727, or simply enjoy the expansive views from the Piazza Garibaldi.

Your day begins with a short (10 mins) transfer to Ossaia, where you start your walk to Tuoro. You’ll be walking with spectacular views over the Valdichiana Valley and Lake Trasimeno, scene of Hannibals ambush of the Roman Army in 217 BC (Battle of Lake Trasimene).

Cross into Umbria at the village of Tuoro, where there are several lovely shops and a café to quench your thirst. A transfer will take you onwards (20 mins) to the medieval village of Castel Rigone, with its late 15th century church.

A short transfer (30 mins) brings you to Castello di Mongiovino, from where you will walk to the charming hill-town of Panicale. Before you set out, pay a visit to the Renaissance Mongiovino Abbey, before following the path up to the castle. Its easy terrain to Panicale; a picturesque medieval village with a nice square and café where you can enjoy a light lunch and a glass of good local wine. At 14h00 approx. take a transfer (30 mins) to your accommodation at la Corte del Poggio, a highlight of your Italian adventure.

A private transfer brings you to Monte Vibiano (20 mins) where you will visit the vineyards (touring by electric car) and enjoy the delights of the region with a wine tasting.

Return on foot to your accommodation at La Carte del Poggio—a peaceful and relaxing stretch along an almost-flat path which traces the Nestore River Park.

After a transfer to Monte Tezio (approx. 40 mins) start your walk to Perugia along a historic route which leads to the Tezio area—an important location in the Middle Ages as it was the source of drinking water for the city. It is still possible to see remnants of the ancient acqueducts.

Perugias huge Etruscan arch gate welcomes you to the capital of Umbria. Crossed by the River Tiber, Perugia is home to the Palazzo dei Priori, which looms above the main piazza. Here you will find some of the best museums in Umbria, including the Galleria Nazionale dell’ Umbria. Wander the markets, shops and arcades of this enchanting city.

Today you catch the train direct to Florence’s Santa Maria Novella station (approx. 2h15, payable locally), speeding through photogenic Italian landscapes. Upon arrival in Florence, known as ‘The Athens of the Middle Ages’, make your own way to your hotel, then enjoy time at leisure to explore this incredible historic city.

From Florence you can easily take a day trip to Pisa as it is only an hour’s journey between the two cities (please contact us if you would like to add a night here). Check out of your hotel and continue your onward journey.