Middle Age Tuscany and gastronomic delights

D01: FLORENCE

The journey begins on Day 1 in Florence. Upon arrival at the airport, you will meet your guide and board your bus to the capital of Tuscany. You are ready to visit the Uffizi Museum, Ponte Vecchio, the Accademia Gallery, and the marvelous churches of the historic center: Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto's Bell Tower and the Baptistery, Santa Maria Novella, and Santa Croce. Dinner will be in a local trattoria, featuring a Florentina steak and a selection of local wines. Overnight in Florence.

D02: FLORENCE

Day 2 is devoted entirely to Florence. The morning takes you uphill to the renowned Piazzale Michelangelo and the San Miniato al Monte Abbey terrace for enchanting panoramic views of the city across the River Arno. Afterward, you will stroll down to Piazza della Signoria and delve into Palazzo Vecchio, the former heart of the Medici Government. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure for walks, shopping, and further exploration. Overnight in Florence.

D03: FLORENCE - PISA

Day 3 begins with a free morning in Florence before heading to Pisa. Your visit will include Piazza dei Miracoli, the Leaning Tower, and the Baptistery, followed by a visit to the medieval San Piero a Grado Abbey. You will have free time in the late afternoon and evening to walk among Pisa's streets and enjoy an aperitivo. Dinner and overnight stay will be at the San Rossore Natural Park resort.

D04: PISA - PIETRASANTA – LUCCA

Day 4 starts with an early drive to Forte dei Marmi to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of its traditional Sunday market. Following this, a short drive takes you to Pietrasanta, a significant hub for marble sculpture. The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the charming city of Lucca, famous for its well-preserved Renaissance-era city walls. Your stroll includes the oval-shaped Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, the Lucca Cathedral, and the historic Basilica of San Frediano. Dinner will be at a local trattoria before settling in for an overnight stay in Lucca.

D05: LUCCA - VOLTERRA

Day 5 takes you along a scenic country road to the ancient walled city of Volterra, a former Etruscan and Roman center. Afterward, you will head to San Gimignano, famously known as the "Manhattan of the Middle Ages." You will spend the night in a charming agriturismo (a farm stay).

D06: SIENA

Day 6 is a deep dive into Siena, a city woven with the history of the Guelf and Ghibelline factions and famously known for the Palio horse race. You will explore important sites, including the magnificent Siena Cathedral (Duomo) and the Santa Maria della Scala Museum Complex. You will have a unique opportunity to meet with members of the Contrade (Siena's historic city quarters) to illuminate the rules of the Palio. Dinner will be enjoyed in a Contrada club, perfectly paired with Chianti Senese, followed by a leisurely walk to explore Siena by night.

D07: SIENA - VAL D’ORCIA (UNESCO HERITAGE)

Day 7 heads south to the Val D’Orcia (UNESCO Heritage), a region rich with history. Your visits include Monte Oliveto Maggiore, a serene home to Benedictine monks, and the pristine Abbey of Sant'Antimo. Next, you will make your way to Montalcino, the birthplace of the world-renowned Brunello di Montalcino wine, where a wine and olive oil tasting will be a highlight. You will spend the night in a charming agriturismo within the picturesque Val d'Orcia.

D08: VAL D’ORCIA ROLLING HILLS LAND

Day 8 is dedicated to exploring the towns and tastes of the Val d'Orcia and the Crete Senesi. Your stops include Montepulciano, Pienza (known for its Pecorino Toscano cheese), and San Quirico d’Orcia. The latter part of the day offers a chance to unwind at the thermal baths in Bagno Vignoni. To cap off the day, you will savor a delightful dish of Pici, a typical Sienese handmade spaghetti. Overnight nearby San Quirico d’Orcia.

D09: TOWARDS TO THE SEA

Day 9 begins with a visit to the magnificent San Galgano Cistercian Abbey, famed for the legend of the sword in the rock. Later, you will journey to Massa Marittima. Here, beside its remarkable Duomo, you can enjoy an outstanding panorama that stretches across the Tyrrhenian Sea to Elba Island. Finally, you will continue to the Templar Church of San Salvatore in Campiglia Marittima before settling in for the night in the Val Cornia area.

D10: BACK HOME

Day 10 involves heading back to northern Tuscany to catch your flight (from Florence or Pisa) and return home.