Tuscany & Umbria:Slow Travel, True Italy
- Information
What's included
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Day 6
- Day 7
Heading to Tuscany
Rows of cypress trees, small medieval villages surrounded by protective walls, hills adorned with vineyards, and unique artistic treasures: this awaits you in Tuscany and much more!
Travel by train from Florence to Siena, where you will check in at your boutique hotel.
Welcome Dinner: Join us for an evening of camaraderie as we gather for a delightful dinner featuring local dishes, providing the perfect opportunity to get to know each other.
Accommodation: La Villa di STR 3* or similar
Siena and Monteriggioni: Echoes of the Middle Ages
Our guide will unveil to us the intricate decorations and the richness of materials that make Siena a true jewel of Tuscany. We’ll marvel at the city’s beauty, so rightfully a source of pride for its inhabitants: Piazza del Campo with the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia, Piazza Duomo and its magnificent Cathedral, the historic Spedale and the remnants of the once-planned new Duomo.
In the afternoon, we’ll take the local bus to Monteriggioni, a short journey of 20-25 minutes approximately, through the rolling Tuscan countryside. This tiny walled village, with its perfectly preserved medieval towers, offers a timeless atmosphere. Enjoy some free time to wander its quiet streets, take in the panoramic views, and perhaps relax with a glass of wine in the charming main square. Monteriggioni is a small treasure, peaceful, authentic, and full of character.
Tuscany Two Ways: Florence or Chianti
Today we take the train to Florence for a full day at leisure in the cradle of the Renaissance. Strolling through the historic centre, we pass from the majestic Duomo to Piazza della Signoria and the impressive Palazzo Vecchio. We cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio, explore the artisan quarter of Oltrarno, and admire the breathtaking views from Piazzale Michelangelo.
Guided tours are available on request, tailored to individual preferences.Those who have already visited Florence may prefer to spend the day discovering the Chianti region.
Rural Charm
The morning at leisure in enchanting Siena offers the perfect opportunity to soak up the town’s unique atmosphere, wander its winding streets and savour the essence of its timeless charm.
In the afternoon, our journey continues with a local train from Siena to Chiusi, a scenic 90-minute ride through the Crete Senesi and the heart of the Tuscan countryside. This slow travel experience provides a refreshing alternative, allowing you to travel like a local and enjoy stunning, unspoilt landscapes.
From Chiusi, a transfer takes you to Panicale, a hilltop village in the Umbrian countryside. Listed among Italy’s most beautiful medieval villages, Panicale offers a true taste of Italian heritage.
Your stay is at either Podere Molinaccio or agriturismo Poggio del Pero – both 19th-century green country estates, restored to blend rustic charm with modern comforts and a commitment to sustainability.
You’ll be warmly welcomed by the owners and introduced to local traditions with an Organic Oil & Wine Tour at Poggio del Pero, including tastings of ICEA-certified olive oil and organically produced estate wines. A relaxed welcome dinner with regional dishes follows.
Hidden Gems and Local Flavours
A delightful day awaits in the unspoilt village of Città della Pieve, nestled just beyond the main tourist trails. During a wonderful guided visit, we will uncover its medieval charm, wander through warm amber-hued streets and admire works by Perugino, who was born here, in the Oratorio di Santa Maria dei Bianchi and the Duomo.
Explore the village via its colour-coded walking routes, designed to highlight hidden viewpoints, heritage buildings and scenic alleys (such as the charming “Kiss Women” Alley), offering a unique way to discover the soul of the town. Special highlights include the Saffron House, which you may wish to visit, and a stop at a local winery in the afternoon to taste the region’s distinctive wines.
The evening is yours to dine in one of Panicale’s characterful restaurants and bask in the gentle ambience of this medieval hilltop village, its ancient walls, quaint piazzas and sweeping views over Lake Trasimeno and the Valdichiana make it Umbria’s best-kept secret.
Discovering Perugia
The morning is dedicated to a guided tour of Perugia, a lively and historic city perched on a hilltop, renowned for its rich artistic heritage, charming streets and vibrant atmosphere. You will explore its medieval centre, the grand piazzas, and important landmarks that tell the story of this Umbrian capital.
The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. We recommend immersing yourself in Perugia’s remarkable artisan traditions, from the Giuditta Brozzetti workshop, housed in Perugia’s first Franciscan church, where traditional hand-weaving techniques bring to life the famous Perugian linens and clothing depicted in Renaissance artworks, to the exquisite Moretti Caselli glassworks and numerous local ceramics studios. These experiences offer a fascinating glimpse into the craftsmanship that has been preserved for centuries, a true journey back in time.
As the evening draws in, join us for a special farewell dinner featuring a live show cooking demonstration. Watch as the chef prepares classic local dishes, sharing secrets and recipes so you can bring a taste of Umbria home with you.
Journey’s end
As your time in this beautiful region comes to an end, we hope you take with you lasting memories of Siena’s charm and the Umbrian countryside. Wishing you safe travels and all the best until we meet again.