Experience Tuscany as you know it from postcards and photographs. Discover the rolling landscape with olive groves and groups of cypresses, stroll through the narrow stone streets of hilltop towns, immerse yourself in hot thermal springs that travel agencies won't take you to. Visit Montepulciano, named the friendliest city in the world by the Time Out travel website. And taste some of the best wines this land has produced: the sparkling Brunello di Montalcino and Nobile di Montepulciano (you'll gladly forget about the Chianti in straw-covered bottles for tourists :-)). And as an added bonus, Siena: a Renaissance pearl of Tuscany, somewhat unfairly in the shadow of the more famous Florence.
After landing at Florence Airport, pick up your reserved car (according to the instructions you will receive before departure). This will give you freedom of movement and allow you to reach places less accessible by public transport. The program depends on your arrival time. If you arrive in the evening, check in and have a seat in one of the countless bars, either near your hotel or perhaps in Piazza della Signoria with a breathtaking view of Palazzo Vecchio. If you have more time, I have prepared a walking tour of the most important monuments of Florence, where you can admire the palaces, churches and squares of this Renaissance jewel of Tuscany.
Pick up your car and head towards Florence. Road traffic in central Italy is comparable to that in our country, and the roads are in good condition. The airport is a short distance from the city center, so the journey should take you approximately half an hour.
You will start your sightseeing tour at Piazzale Michelangelo, dominated by a copy of Michelangelo's David, which offers a famous view of the entire city. Park here and take a walking tour of the most famous sights - down the hill to the Ponte Vecchio, the goldsmiths' bridge, and further into the city.
You will reach the main square, Piazza della Signoria, with the Uffizi Gallery (if you want to visit it and admire the paintings of masters such as Botticelli, Raphael, da Vinci or Michelangelo, I recommend buying tickets well in advance online in advance.
Then, along Via dei Calzaiuoli to the Duomo with Brunelleschi's dome, where you can climb after purchasing a ticket, and to the Baptistery in front of it (a combined ticket Brunelleschi Pass is valid not only for the Baptistery and the dome but also for Giotto's bell tower and the museum). Take a photo in front of the Baptistery doors with gilded reliefs called the Gates of Paradise, and take a five-minute detour to the Church of San Lorenzo, where the chapel with the Medici tombs is hidden (visit possible after paying an entrance fee).
Continue to the rectangular Santa Croce square with the church of the same name (there is an entrance fee), where you can find the tombs of famous Italians. This is my favorite Florentine square, and I hope you will like it too. From here, head back to the car. The entire circuit is about 5.5 km long, and you can stop at any time for a great gelato, a refreshing aperitivo, or the famous bistecca alla fiorentina steak.
Secret food tip: on the first floor of Mercato Centrale, 10 minutes from the Baptistery, there's a food court where you can order typical Italian food and drinks from one of the many stalls around the perimeter and eat at a table in the middle. Not only tourists come here, but especially locals, so it's not a tourist trap :-).
Head south to your destination, Montepulciano, the "friendliest city in the world". Before you get there, stop in Siena, which would be a shame to miss. You can easily spend several hours in this historical gem and still have something to admire. Have lunch in one of the many trattorias and then head to Montepulciano, where you will stay. You will have the whole next day for the city, but if you have the time and inclination, head out in the evening to the narrow streets surrounded by stone palaces and taste some of the excellent wines offered here at every turn.
Park in the Santa Caterina paid parking lot; 150 meters from it is the risalita del Costone escalator, which will take you 150 meters from the Duomo. The city offers a variety of sights, but I recommend just wandering around, admiring the views that suddenly open up before you, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with white and black marble cladding on the facade and a 77-meter-high tower. There is an entrance fee and you can purchase tickets here.
The oval square where the famous horse races take place every year, in which the individual city districts compete with each other. You can climb the town hall tower Torre del Mangia, from where you will have the whole square at your fingertips. However, it is a physically demanding matter, so consider your options carefully.
You'll dedicate this day to exploring the town where you're staying. It's sure to win you over with its authentic atmosphere. And not just that! The rolling hills, vineyards, and the paths between them are not only a feast for the eyes but also invite you to take a short walk. If you have the time and inclination, put on your shoes and head along the dirt roads towards Montefollonico. You don't have to go all the way there, after all, it's almost eight kilometers, just a short distance is enough to enjoy this beautiful landscape up close.
If you're staying in town, head straight into the streets after breakfast. If not, park in one of the many car parks and admire this pearl of Tuscany, built, so typical of this part of Italy, on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. It offers you a maze of streets lined with stone palaces, breathtaking views of the countryside and plenty of opportunities to taste local cuisine and wine.
Central square with a 15th-century town hall and a medieval fountain. In one of the corners, you can visit the Contucci wine cellars, admission is free, you pay for the tasting 😉
The Renaissance church of San Biagio by architect Antonio da Sangallo, with a bell tower unusually located separately from the main building.
This small village on the hill is surrounded by medieval walls, in which several gates and towers have been preserved. You will find only one bar occupied by locals, where you can get refreshments when tired after the trip. Admire the old stone houses and head back, now down the hill.
You will travel through the picturesque landscape of the Val d'Orcia valley to the town of Pienza, where Enea Silvio Piccolomini, the future Pope Pius II, was born in 1405. He later decided to rebuild his native village and had an "ideal city" built. Although the plans were not fully realized due to his untimely death, an example of medieval urbanism remains here, now under UNESCO protection. After the tour, you will soak in the thermal springs and end the day with a glass of unique and appreciated wine in the village of Montalcino.
In this urban gem of the Italian Renaissance, you can admire the cathedral, town hall, the summer papal residence of Palazzo Piccolomini, Palazzo Borgia, and above all, the city itself and the views from the walls.
After touring Pienza, drive to nearby Bagno Vignoni. The parking lot is located above the so-called Parco dei Mulini, a place where thermal water springs and flows down white rock walls. Bagno Vignoni is a small village with a picturesque square, in the middle of which is a rectangular tank from the 15th century capturing thermal water from local springs. Today it is not used for bathing, so have a coffee and ice cream in one of the bars around its perimeter.
Then, drive to the bottom of Parco dei Mulini and park along the road (you won't be the only one; the baths are heavily used by locals). Climb a few meters up and enjoy a bath in the thermal water.
The last stop today is Montalcino, famous for its local red wine, Brunello di Montalcino. It is made from the Sangiovese variety exclusively in this municipality and its surroundings, and it is a harmonious wine with a light garnet color and full flavor. And you will have the opportunity to taste it, perhaps in the Fortezza di Montalcino fortress, in the corner of whose courtyard there is a wine shop with a great selection. Or in one of the bars or wine shops located along Via Ricasoli leading to the Concattedrale del Santissimo Salvatore.
Return to accommodation in Montepulciano.
Once again, you will pass through the impressive Val d'Orcia with its olive groves and typical cypress trees scattered in the rolling landscape, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After about a quarter of an hour, you will reach the small town of Montichiello and then head to Bagni San Filippo, thermal springs almost unknown to tourists, flowing down travertine cascades. In the evening, say goodbye to Montepulciano with a visit to one of the wine cellars and enjoy your last evening in this charismatic town.
Walk through the village, sit in a café on the ramparts above the entrance gate, and see the Teatro Povero, where the town's residents perform as actors and playwrights. You might even reach the olive grove above the town, where there are occasional free exhibitions of paintings or sculptures. You might get lucky.
The road will take you further south to Bagni San Filippo. Here you will find a series of travertine pools resembling Turkish Pamukkale, as well as the imposing "White Whale", which is a white mass of travertine through which thermal water flows with a temperature of up to 48oC. You won't want to miss that. Moreover, you will be one of the few tourists, because mainly locals know about this gem and like to use it.
After the bath, return to your accommodation and enjoy your last evening in captivating Montepulciano. You can visit the Fattoria Pulcino Cantina winery near the Pulcinella tower, walk through their cellars, and buy liquid and other edible gifts to take home.
The program for this day depends on your departure time. Either you head directly to the airport, or you take the opportunity to stop in Monteriggioni for one last Italian coffee with something sweet to go with it.
If you have time, avoid the highway. Instead, head towards Siena and stop just north of it in Monteriggioni, which served as a fortress in the 13th century to defend Siena against its old enemy, Florence. It is completely surrounded by walls and, although it is small and you can walk through it in a short time, it is definitely worth your attention. Have a coffee and ricciarelli at the local bar, small almond paste cookies inextricably linked to this region.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2/3 hours before departure. After returning the car, all that awaits you is check-in and the journey home, where the experiences from this trip will warm your heart for a long time to come.
Experience Tuscany as you know it from postcards and photographs. Discover the rolling landscape with olive groves and groups of cypresses, stroll through the narrow stone streets of hilltop towns, immerse yourself in hot thermal springs that travel agencies won't take you to. Visit Montepulciano, named the friendliest city in the world by the Time Out travel website. And taste some of the best wines this land has produced: the sparkling Brunello di Montalcino and Nobile di Montepulciano (you'll gladly forget about the Chianti in straw-covered bottles for tourists :-)). And as an added bonus, Siena: a Renaissance pearl of Tuscany, somewhat unfairly in the shadow of the more famous Florence.
After landing at Florence Airport, pick up your reserved car (according to the instructions you will receive before departure). This will give you freedom of movement and allow you to reach places less accessible by public transport. The program depends on your arrival time. If you arrive in the evening, check in and have a seat in one of the countless bars, either near your hotel or perhaps in Piazza della Signoria with a breathtaking view of Palazzo Vecchio. If you have more time, I have prepared a walking tour of the most important monuments of Florence, where you can admire the palaces, churches and squares of this Renaissance jewel of Tuscany.
Pick up your car and head towards Florence. Road traffic in central Italy is comparable to that in our country, and the roads are in good condition. The airport is a short distance from the city center, so the journey should take you approximately half an hour.
You will start your sightseeing tour at Piazzale Michelangelo, dominated by a copy of Michelangelo's David, which offers a famous view of the entire city. Park here and take a walking tour of the most famous sights - down the hill to the Ponte Vecchio, the goldsmiths' bridge, and further into the city.
You will reach the main square, Piazza della Signoria, with the Uffizi Gallery (if you want to visit it and admire the paintings of masters such as Botticelli, Raphael, da Vinci or Michelangelo, I recommend buying tickets well in advance online in advance.
Then, along Via dei Calzaiuoli to the Duomo with Brunelleschi's dome, where you can climb after purchasing a ticket, and to the Baptistery in front of it (a combined ticket Brunelleschi Pass is valid not only for the Baptistery and the dome but also for Giotto's bell tower and the museum). Take a photo in front of the Baptistery doors with gilded reliefs called the Gates of Paradise, and take a five-minute detour to the Church of San Lorenzo, where the chapel with the Medici tombs is hidden (visit possible after paying an entrance fee).
Continue to the rectangular Santa Croce square with the church of the same name (there is an entrance fee), where you can find the tombs of famous Italians. This is my favorite Florentine square, and I hope you will like it too. From here, head back to the car. The entire circuit is about 5.5 km long, and you can stop at any time for a great gelato, a refreshing aperitivo, or the famous bistecca alla fiorentina steak.
Secret food tip: on the first floor of Mercato Centrale, 10 minutes from the Baptistery, there's a food court where you can order typical Italian food and drinks from one of the many stalls around the perimeter and eat at a table in the middle. Not only tourists come here, but especially locals, so it's not a tourist trap :-).
Head south to your destination, Montepulciano, the "friendliest city in the world". Before you get there, stop in Siena, which would be a shame to miss. You can easily spend several hours in this historical gem and still have something to admire. Have lunch in one of the many trattorias and then head to Montepulciano, where you will stay. You will have the whole next day for the city, but if you have the time and inclination, head out in the evening to the narrow streets surrounded by stone palaces and taste some of the excellent wines offered here at every turn.
Park in the Santa Caterina paid parking lot; 150 meters from it is the risalita del Costone escalator, which will take you 150 meters from the Duomo. The city offers a variety of sights, but I recommend just wandering around, admiring the views that suddenly open up before you, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with white and black marble cladding on the facade and a 77-meter-high tower. There is an entrance fee and you can purchase tickets here.
The oval square where the famous horse races take place every year, in which the individual city districts compete with each other. You can climb the town hall tower Torre del Mangia, from where you will have the whole square at your fingertips. However, it is a physically demanding matter, so consider your options carefully.
You'll dedicate this day to exploring the town where you're staying. It's sure to win you over with its authentic atmosphere. And not just that! The rolling hills, vineyards, and the paths between them are not only a feast for the eyes but also invite you to take a short walk. If you have the time and inclination, put on your shoes and head along the dirt roads towards Montefollonico. You don't have to go all the way there, after all, it's almost eight kilometers, just a short distance is enough to enjoy this beautiful landscape up close.
If you're staying in town, head straight into the streets after breakfast. If not, park in one of the many car parks and admire this pearl of Tuscany, built, so typical of this part of Italy, on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. It offers you a maze of streets lined with stone palaces, breathtaking views of the countryside and plenty of opportunities to taste local cuisine and wine.
Central square with a 15th-century town hall and a medieval fountain. In one of the corners, you can visit the Contucci wine cellars, admission is free, you pay for the tasting 😉
The Renaissance church of San Biagio by architect Antonio da Sangallo, with a bell tower unusually located separately from the main building.
This small village on the hill is surrounded by medieval walls, in which several gates and towers have been preserved. You will find only one bar occupied by locals, where you can get refreshments when tired after the trip. Admire the old stone houses and head back, now down the hill.
You will travel through the picturesque landscape of the Val d'Orcia valley to the town of Pienza, where Enea Silvio Piccolomini, the future Pope Pius II, was born in 1405. He later decided to rebuild his native village and had an "ideal city" built. Although the plans were not fully realized due to his untimely death, an example of medieval urbanism remains here, now under UNESCO protection. After the tour, you will soak in the thermal springs and end the day with a glass of unique and appreciated wine in the village of Montalcino.
In this urban gem of the Italian Renaissance, you can admire the cathedral, town hall, the summer papal residence of Palazzo Piccolomini, Palazzo Borgia, and above all, the city itself and the views from the walls.
After touring Pienza, drive to nearby Bagno Vignoni. The parking lot is located above the so-called Parco dei Mulini, a place where thermal water springs and flows down white rock walls. Bagno Vignoni is a small village with a picturesque square, in the middle of which is a rectangular tank from the 15th century capturing thermal water from local springs. Today it is not used for bathing, so have a coffee and ice cream in one of the bars around its perimeter.
Then, drive to the bottom of Parco dei Mulini and park along the road (you won't be the only one; the baths are heavily used by locals). Climb a few meters up and enjoy a bath in the thermal water.
The last stop today is Montalcino, famous for its local red wine, Brunello di Montalcino. It is made from the Sangiovese variety exclusively in this municipality and its surroundings, and it is a harmonious wine with a light garnet color and full flavor. And you will have the opportunity to taste it, perhaps in the Fortezza di Montalcino fortress, in the corner of whose courtyard there is a wine shop with a great selection. Or in one of the bars or wine shops located along Via Ricasoli leading to the Concattedrale del Santissimo Salvatore.
Return to accommodation in Montepulciano.
Once again, you will pass through the impressive Val d'Orcia with its olive groves and typical cypress trees scattered in the rolling landscape, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After about a quarter of an hour, you will reach the small town of Montichiello and then head to Bagni San Filippo, thermal springs almost unknown to tourists, flowing down travertine cascades. In the evening, say goodbye to Montepulciano with a visit to one of the wine cellars and enjoy your last evening in this charismatic town.
Walk through the village, sit in a café on the ramparts above the entrance gate, and see the Teatro Povero, where the town's residents perform as actors and playwrights. You might even reach the olive grove above the town, where there are occasional free exhibitions of paintings or sculptures. You might get lucky.
The road will take you further south to Bagni San Filippo. Here you will find a series of travertine pools resembling Turkish Pamukkale, as well as the imposing "White Whale", which is a white mass of travertine through which thermal water flows with a temperature of up to 48oC. You won't want to miss that. Moreover, you will be one of the few tourists, because mainly locals know about this gem and like to use it.
After the bath, return to your accommodation and enjoy your last evening in captivating Montepulciano. You can visit the Fattoria Pulcino Cantina winery near the Pulcinella tower, walk through their cellars, and buy liquid and other edible gifts to take home.
The program for this day depends on your departure time. Either you head directly to the airport, or you take the opportunity to stop in Monteriggioni for one last Italian coffee with something sweet to go with it.
If you have time, avoid the highway. Instead, head towards Siena and stop just north of it in Monteriggioni, which served as a fortress in the 13th century to defend Siena against its old enemy, Florence. It is completely surrounded by walls and, although it is small and you can walk through it in a short time, it is definitely worth your attention. Have a coffee and ricciarelli at the local bar, small almond paste cookies inextricably linked to this region.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2/3 hours before departure. After returning the car, all that awaits you is check-in and the journey home, where the experiences from this trip will warm your heart for a long time to come.
itinerary by Alice
Experience Tuscany as you know it from postcards and photographs. Discover the rolling landscape with olive groves and groups of cypresses, stroll through the narrow stone streets of hilltop towns, immerse yourself in hot thermal springs that travel agencies won't take you to. Visit Montepulciano, named the friendliest city in the world by the Time Out travel website. And taste some of the best wines this land has produced: the sparkling Brunello di Montalcino and Nobile di Montepulciano (you'll gladly forget about the Chianti in straw-covered bottles for tourists :-)). And as an added bonus, Siena: a Renaissance pearl of Tuscany, somewhat unfairly in the shadow of the more famous Florence.
After landing at Florence Airport, pick up your reserved car (according to the instructions you will receive before departure). This will give you freedom of movement and allow you to reach places less accessible by public transport. The program depends on your arrival time. If you arrive in the evening, check in and have a seat in one of the countless bars, either near your hotel or perhaps in Piazza della Signoria with a breathtaking view of Palazzo Vecchio. If you have more time, I have prepared a walking tour of the most important monuments of Florence, where you can admire the palaces, churches and squares of this Renaissance jewel of Tuscany.
Pick up your car and head towards Florence. Road traffic in central Italy is comparable to that in our country, and the roads are in good condition. The airport is a short distance from the city center, so the journey should take you approximately half an hour.
You will start your sightseeing tour at Piazzale Michelangelo, dominated by a copy of Michelangelo's David, which offers a famous view of the entire city. Park here and take a walking tour of the most famous sights - down the hill to the Ponte Vecchio, the goldsmiths' bridge, and further into the city.
You will reach the main square, Piazza della Signoria, with the Uffizi Gallery (if you want to visit it and admire the paintings of masters such as Botticelli, Raphael, da Vinci or Michelangelo, I recommend buying tickets well in advance online in advance.
Then, along Via dei Calzaiuoli to the Duomo with Brunelleschi's dome, where you can climb after purchasing a ticket, and to the Baptistery in front of it (a combined ticket Brunelleschi Pass is valid not only for the Baptistery and the dome but also for Giotto's bell tower and the museum). Take a photo in front of the Baptistery doors with gilded reliefs called the Gates of Paradise, and take a five-minute detour to the Church of San Lorenzo, where the chapel with the Medici tombs is hidden (visit possible after paying an entrance fee).
Continue to the rectangular Santa Croce square with the church of the same name (there is an entrance fee), where you can find the tombs of famous Italians. This is my favorite Florentine square, and I hope you will like it too. From here, head back to the car. The entire circuit is about 5.5 km long, and you can stop at any time for a great gelato, a refreshing aperitivo, or the famous bistecca alla fiorentina steak.
Secret food tip: on the first floor of Mercato Centrale, 10 minutes from the Baptistery, there's a food court where you can order typical Italian food and drinks from one of the many stalls around the perimeter and eat at a table in the middle. Not only tourists come here, but especially locals, so it's not a tourist trap :-).
Head south to your destination, Montepulciano, the "friendliest city in the world". Before you get there, stop in Siena, which would be a shame to miss. You can easily spend several hours in this historical gem and still have something to admire. Have lunch in one of the many trattorias and then head to Montepulciano, where you will stay. You will have the whole next day for the city, but if you have the time and inclination, head out in the evening to the narrow streets surrounded by stone palaces and taste some of the excellent wines offered here at every turn.
Park in the Santa Caterina paid parking lot; 150 meters from it is the risalita del Costone escalator, which will take you 150 meters from the Duomo. The city offers a variety of sights, but I recommend just wandering around, admiring the views that suddenly open up before you, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with white and black marble cladding on the facade and a 77-meter-high tower. There is an entrance fee and you can purchase tickets here.
The oval square where the famous horse races take place every year, in which the individual city districts compete with each other. You can climb the town hall tower Torre del Mangia, from where you will have the whole square at your fingertips. However, it is a physically demanding matter, so consider your options carefully.
You'll dedicate this day to exploring the town where you're staying. It's sure to win you over with its authentic atmosphere. And not just that! The rolling hills, vineyards, and the paths between them are not only a feast for the eyes but also invite you to take a short walk. If you have the time and inclination, put on your shoes and head along the dirt roads towards Montefollonico. You don't have to go all the way there, after all, it's almost eight kilometers, just a short distance is enough to enjoy this beautiful landscape up close.
If you're staying in town, head straight into the streets after breakfast. If not, park in one of the many car parks and admire this pearl of Tuscany, built, so typical of this part of Italy, on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. It offers you a maze of streets lined with stone palaces, breathtaking views of the countryside and plenty of opportunities to taste local cuisine and wine.
Central square with a 15th-century town hall and a medieval fountain. In one of the corners, you can visit the Contucci wine cellars, admission is free, you pay for the tasting 😉
The Renaissance church of San Biagio by architect Antonio da Sangallo, with a bell tower unusually located separately from the main building.
This small village on the hill is surrounded by medieval walls, in which several gates and towers have been preserved. You will find only one bar occupied by locals, where you can get refreshments when tired after the trip. Admire the old stone houses and head back, now down the hill.
You will travel through the picturesque landscape of the Val d'Orcia valley to the town of Pienza, where Enea Silvio Piccolomini, the future Pope Pius II, was born in 1405. He later decided to rebuild his native village and had an "ideal city" built. Although the plans were not fully realized due to his untimely death, an example of medieval urbanism remains here, now under UNESCO protection. After the tour, you will soak in the thermal springs and end the day with a glass of unique and appreciated wine in the village of Montalcino.
In this urban gem of the Italian Renaissance, you can admire the cathedral, town hall, the summer papal residence of Palazzo Piccolomini, Palazzo Borgia, and above all, the city itself and the views from the walls.
After touring Pienza, drive to nearby Bagno Vignoni. The parking lot is located above the so-called Parco dei Mulini, a place where thermal water springs and flows down white rock walls. Bagno Vignoni is a small village with a picturesque square, in the middle of which is a rectangular tank from the 15th century capturing thermal water from local springs. Today it is not used for bathing, so have a coffee and ice cream in one of the bars around its perimeter.
Then, drive to the bottom of Parco dei Mulini and park along the road (you won't be the only one; the baths are heavily used by locals). Climb a few meters up and enjoy a bath in the thermal water.
The last stop today is Montalcino, famous for its local red wine, Brunello di Montalcino. It is made from the Sangiovese variety exclusively in this municipality and its surroundings, and it is a harmonious wine with a light garnet color and full flavor. And you will have the opportunity to taste it, perhaps in the Fortezza di Montalcino fortress, in the corner of whose courtyard there is a wine shop with a great selection. Or in one of the bars or wine shops located along Via Ricasoli leading to the Concattedrale del Santissimo Salvatore.
Return to accommodation in Montepulciano.
Once again, you will pass through the impressive Val d'Orcia with its olive groves and typical cypress trees scattered in the rolling landscape, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After about a quarter of an hour, you will reach the small town of Montichiello and then head to Bagni San Filippo, thermal springs almost unknown to tourists, flowing down travertine cascades. In the evening, say goodbye to Montepulciano with a visit to one of the wine cellars and enjoy your last evening in this charismatic town.
Walk through the village, sit in a café on the ramparts above the entrance gate, and see the Teatro Povero, where the town's residents perform as actors and playwrights. You might even reach the olive grove above the town, where there are occasional free exhibitions of paintings or sculptures. You might get lucky.
The road will take you further south to Bagni San Filippo. Here you will find a series of travertine pools resembling Turkish Pamukkale, as well as the imposing "White Whale", which is a white mass of travertine through which thermal water flows with a temperature of up to 48oC. You won't want to miss that. Moreover, you will be one of the few tourists, because mainly locals know about this gem and like to use it.
After the bath, return to your accommodation and enjoy your last evening in captivating Montepulciano. You can visit the Fattoria Pulcino Cantina winery near the Pulcinella tower, walk through their cellars, and buy liquid and other edible gifts to take home.
The program for this day depends on your departure time. Either you head directly to the airport, or you take the opportunity to stop in Monteriggioni for one last Italian coffee with something sweet to go with it.
If you have time, avoid the highway. Instead, head towards Siena and stop just north of it in Monteriggioni, which served as a fortress in the 13th century to defend Siena against its old enemy, Florence. It is completely surrounded by walls and, although it is small and you can walk through it in a short time, it is definitely worth your attention. Have a coffee and ricciarelli at the local bar, small almond paste cookies inextricably linked to this region.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2/3 hours before departure. After returning the car, all that awaits you is check-in and the journey home, where the experiences from this trip will warm your heart for a long time to come.
Experience Tuscany as you know it from postcards and photographs. Discover the rolling landscape with olive groves and groups of cypresses, stroll through the narrow stone streets of hilltop towns, immerse yourself in hot thermal springs that travel agencies won't take you to. Visit Montepulciano, named the friendliest city in the world by the Time Out travel website. And taste some of the best wines this land has produced: the sparkling Brunello di Montalcino and Nobile di Montepulciano (you'll gladly forget about the Chianti in straw-covered bottles for tourists :-)). And as an added bonus, Siena: a Renaissance pearl of Tuscany, somewhat unfairly in the shadow of the more famous Florence.
After landing at Florence Airport, pick up your reserved car (according to the instructions you will receive before departure). This will give you freedom of movement and allow you to reach places less accessible by public transport. The program depends on your arrival time. If you arrive in the evening, check in and have a seat in one of the countless bars, either near your hotel or perhaps in Piazza della Signoria with a breathtaking view of Palazzo Vecchio. If you have more time, I have prepared a walking tour of the most important monuments of Florence, where you can admire the palaces, churches and squares of this Renaissance jewel of Tuscany.
Pick up your car and head towards Florence. Road traffic in central Italy is comparable to that in our country, and the roads are in good condition. The airport is a short distance from the city center, so the journey should take you approximately half an hour.
You will start your sightseeing tour at Piazzale Michelangelo, dominated by a copy of Michelangelo's David, which offers a famous view of the entire city. Park here and take a walking tour of the most famous sights - down the hill to the Ponte Vecchio, the goldsmiths' bridge, and further into the city.
You will reach the main square, Piazza della Signoria, with the Uffizi Gallery (if you want to visit it and admire the paintings of masters such as Botticelli, Raphael, da Vinci or Michelangelo, I recommend buying tickets well in advance online in advance.
Then, along Via dei Calzaiuoli to the Duomo with Brunelleschi's dome, where you can climb after purchasing a ticket, and to the Baptistery in front of it (a combined ticket Brunelleschi Pass is valid not only for the Baptistery and the dome but also for Giotto's bell tower and the museum). Take a photo in front of the Baptistery doors with gilded reliefs called the Gates of Paradise, and take a five-minute detour to the Church of San Lorenzo, where the chapel with the Medici tombs is hidden (visit possible after paying an entrance fee).
Continue to the rectangular Santa Croce square with the church of the same name (there is an entrance fee), where you can find the tombs of famous Italians. This is my favorite Florentine square, and I hope you will like it too. From here, head back to the car. The entire circuit is about 5.5 km long, and you can stop at any time for a great gelato, a refreshing aperitivo, or the famous bistecca alla fiorentina steak.
Secret food tip: on the first floor of Mercato Centrale, 10 minutes from the Baptistery, there's a food court where you can order typical Italian food and drinks from one of the many stalls around the perimeter and eat at a table in the middle. Not only tourists come here, but especially locals, so it's not a tourist trap :-).
Head south to your destination, Montepulciano, the "friendliest city in the world". Before you get there, stop in Siena, which would be a shame to miss. You can easily spend several hours in this historical gem and still have something to admire. Have lunch in one of the many trattorias and then head to Montepulciano, where you will stay. You will have the whole next day for the city, but if you have the time and inclination, head out in the evening to the narrow streets surrounded by stone palaces and taste some of the excellent wines offered here at every turn.
Park in the Santa Caterina paid parking lot; 150 meters from it is the risalita del Costone escalator, which will take you 150 meters from the Duomo. The city offers a variety of sights, but I recommend just wandering around, admiring the views that suddenly open up before you, and soaking up the atmosphere.
Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with white and black marble cladding on the facade and a 77-meter-high tower. There is an entrance fee and you can purchase tickets here.
The oval square where the famous horse races take place every year, in which the individual city districts compete with each other. You can climb the town hall tower Torre del Mangia, from where you will have the whole square at your fingertips. However, it is a physically demanding matter, so consider your options carefully.
You'll dedicate this day to exploring the town where you're staying. It's sure to win you over with its authentic atmosphere. And not just that! The rolling hills, vineyards, and the paths between them are not only a feast for the eyes but also invite you to take a short walk. If you have the time and inclination, put on your shoes and head along the dirt roads towards Montefollonico. You don't have to go all the way there, after all, it's almost eight kilometers, just a short distance is enough to enjoy this beautiful landscape up close.
If you're staying in town, head straight into the streets after breakfast. If not, park in one of the many car parks and admire this pearl of Tuscany, built, so typical of this part of Italy, on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. It offers you a maze of streets lined with stone palaces, breathtaking views of the countryside and plenty of opportunities to taste local cuisine and wine.
Central square with a 15th-century town hall and a medieval fountain. In one of the corners, you can visit the Contucci wine cellars, admission is free, you pay for the tasting 😉
The Renaissance church of San Biagio by architect Antonio da Sangallo, with a bell tower unusually located separately from the main building.
This small village on the hill is surrounded by medieval walls, in which several gates and towers have been preserved. You will find only one bar occupied by locals, where you can get refreshments when tired after the trip. Admire the old stone houses and head back, now down the hill.
You will travel through the picturesque landscape of the Val d'Orcia valley to the town of Pienza, where Enea Silvio Piccolomini, the future Pope Pius II, was born in 1405. He later decided to rebuild his native village and had an "ideal city" built. Although the plans were not fully realized due to his untimely death, an example of medieval urbanism remains here, now under UNESCO protection. After the tour, you will soak in the thermal springs and end the day with a glass of unique and appreciated wine in the village of Montalcino.
In this urban gem of the Italian Renaissance, you can admire the cathedral, town hall, the summer papal residence of Palazzo Piccolomini, Palazzo Borgia, and above all, the city itself and the views from the walls.
After touring Pienza, drive to nearby Bagno Vignoni. The parking lot is located above the so-called Parco dei Mulini, a place where thermal water springs and flows down white rock walls. Bagno Vignoni is a small village with a picturesque square, in the middle of which is a rectangular tank from the 15th century capturing thermal water from local springs. Today it is not used for bathing, so have a coffee and ice cream in one of the bars around its perimeter.
Then, drive to the bottom of Parco dei Mulini and park along the road (you won't be the only one; the baths are heavily used by locals). Climb a few meters up and enjoy a bath in the thermal water.
The last stop today is Montalcino, famous for its local red wine, Brunello di Montalcino. It is made from the Sangiovese variety exclusively in this municipality and its surroundings, and it is a harmonious wine with a light garnet color and full flavor. And you will have the opportunity to taste it, perhaps in the Fortezza di Montalcino fortress, in the corner of whose courtyard there is a wine shop with a great selection. Or in one of the bars or wine shops located along Via Ricasoli leading to the Concattedrale del Santissimo Salvatore.
Return to accommodation in Montepulciano.
Once again, you will pass through the impressive Val d'Orcia with its olive groves and typical cypress trees scattered in the rolling landscape, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After about a quarter of an hour, you will reach the small town of Montichiello and then head to Bagni San Filippo, thermal springs almost unknown to tourists, flowing down travertine cascades. In the evening, say goodbye to Montepulciano with a visit to one of the wine cellars and enjoy your last evening in this charismatic town.
Walk through the village, sit in a café on the ramparts above the entrance gate, and see the Teatro Povero, where the town's residents perform as actors and playwrights. You might even reach the olive grove above the town, where there are occasional free exhibitions of paintings or sculptures. You might get lucky.
The road will take you further south to Bagni San Filippo. Here you will find a series of travertine pools resembling Turkish Pamukkale, as well as the imposing "White Whale", which is a white mass of travertine through which thermal water flows with a temperature of up to 48oC. You won't want to miss that. Moreover, you will be one of the few tourists, because mainly locals know about this gem and like to use it.
After the bath, return to your accommodation and enjoy your last evening in captivating Montepulciano. You can visit the Fattoria Pulcino Cantina winery near the Pulcinella tower, walk through their cellars, and buy liquid and other edible gifts to take home.
The program for this day depends on your departure time. Either you head directly to the airport, or you take the opportunity to stop in Monteriggioni for one last Italian coffee with something sweet to go with it.
If you have time, avoid the highway. Instead, head towards Siena and stop just north of it in Monteriggioni, which served as a fortress in the 13th century to defend Siena against its old enemy, Florence. It is completely surrounded by walls and, although it is small and you can walk through it in a short time, it is definitely worth your attention. Have a coffee and ricciarelli at the local bar, small almond paste cookies inextricably linked to this region.
Don't forget to be at the airport at least 2/3 hours before departure. After returning the car, all that awaits you is check-in and the journey home, where the experiences from this trip will warm your heart for a long time to come.
