Amber Road Tours

A Week In Tuscany

7 days/6 nights

• Day 1

  Arrival Florence airport, where you'll be met by your tour escort. Heading south into the heart of Tuscany our first stop is the 13th century walled fortress of Monteriggioni, the ancient hamlet within still retains its original appearance and counts just 42 inhabitants. Then we transfer to one of the most charming towns in Italy – Pienza, the Renaissance "ideal city" - constructed in the latter part of the 15th century at the behest of native son Pope Pius II. We'll be staying at the Relais Il Chiostro, a former 15th century convent overlooking the rolling cypress-lined hills of the stunning Orcia Valley, located in the town center. Our welcome dinner, set in a former 15th century cantina, will introduce you to the delicious local cuisine.

• Day 2

  Cortona, the oldest continuously inhabited hill town in Italy, is this morning's destination. After a visit to the 15th century Medici fortress we'll leave you on your own to explore winding lanes and medieval squares.
  Montepulciano, which has its roots in Roman times, is home to grand piazzas, noble palazzos and ancient alleys. After a city tour with local guide we’ll complete our visit at the Cantina Redi, an old winery carved out of tufa stone, for a taste of the famous Vino Nobile.
  

• Day 3

  This morning we go to the very south of Tuscany passing through mysterious landscapes to visit Sovana and the nearby Archaeological Park where we’ll have a guided tour of the 2,700 year old Etruscan necropolis and walk along ancient Etruscan roads. Then our local guide will accompany us to Pitigliano, one of the most unusual towns you can imagine, sitting atop a sheer cliff lined with Etruscan tombs.
  

• Day 4

  An early morning visit to the vineyards of Il Casato for a visit to their winery and have a taste of the Brunello wines. Then we'll take in the hill-town and castle of Montalcino, with some of the most scenic settings on our tour. Afternoon visit to the beautiful 9th century abbey St. Antimo where we'll hear the monks' Gregorian chants. Transfer to San Gimignano, a tour favorite with its many towers, lovely scenery and enjoyable evenings. We'll be staying at the 13th century Hotel La Cisterna, set in the main square of town.
  

• Day 5

  Morning free in San Gimiganano.
  Afternoon drive into Chianti wine country for a guided tour of a local vineyard and cantina with olive oil and wine tasting. Then a visit to Castellina in Chianti, an attractive hill-town that was once the fortified border between Florence and Siena. It still retains its 15th century defensive look with imposing walls and fortress but these days is more inviting with shops vending wine, olive oil and other local products.

• Day 6

  Our last excursion is to the enchanting Gothic city of Siena, home to one of Italy's most beautiful squares, the Piazza del Campo and a marvelous cathedral. After our tour with a local guide, we'll leave you on your own for shopping, lunch and, perhaps, to climb the 503-step Torre del Mangia. Farewell dinner at an antique tavern, run by the same family since 1929.
  

• Day 7

  Morning transfers to Florence airport and train station.