The Italian city known as the capital of renascence, and also as the cradle of the Italian language. This tour will allow you to visit the main monuments which have contributed to the history of Florence and its worldwide renown artistic quality. Departure and meeting with the tour guide/leader will be in the morning. The first stop will be before arriving to the main city centre in Piazzale Michelangelo and to visit Chiese di S.Spirito and Carmine, famous for its breathtaking views of Florence.

Once you have arrived in the centre you will continue the tour on foot towards Palazzo Pitti and Ponte Vecchio, one of the symbols of Florence which crosses the river of Arno which even in the tightest of spaces has numerous shops. Lunch by your own. The second part of the day will be dedicated to visiting Palazzo della Signoria and the Basilica di Santa Croce, one of the most important constructions of Italian gothic style not to mention the resting place of many famous artists. The tour concludes at the unforgettable “Accademia delle Belle Arti” where not only can you appreciate the many famous pieces of art you can also admire "David", which is without discussion the most famous artistic piece of Michelangelo. Concluding this memorable experience there will be time for shopping.

Siena is, probably after Florence, the richest Tuscan city for monuments and history. During this day tour you will have the possibility to visit many historical place that have contributed to it well known name not only for the “Palio” but also for its art which is as old as the antique Athens of Europe. The meeting with the tour guide/leader and departure for Siena will take place in the morning. Whilst walking towards the city, you will visit the la Basilica di San Domenico, the Palazzo del Magnifico and the Museo dell’Opera Metropolitana.

Lunch will be held at a typical restaurant in the historical centre where you can enjoy traditional dishes and a wine tasting. In the afternoon the tour will continue with the visit of Pinacoteca Nazionale followed by Piazza del Campo, famous for its shell form, it beautiful architecture and last but not least it famous Palio arena. Along the walls that act as boundaries for the square, dislocated are the main palaces that were used in the medieval era, such as the Duomo, the Palazzo Pubblico and the Torre del Mangia, which is high 102 meters, the second tallest tower in Italy. After visiting these three historical monuments you will have free time to go shopping.

Excursion to Pisa that is best known for the world famous Leaning Tower, but those who come here with their mind already made up that the Tower is the only thing to see here may miss the other architectural and artistic marvels of this beautiful city. The long walk from the Campo dei Miracoli to the train station is along a pedestrian mall with many interesting sights, shops, and restaurants. Torre Pendente The Leaning Tower is the most remarkable bell tower in Europe and represents Pisa’s main attraction. The construction began in 1173 and continued after two long interruptions for about two hundred years. Originally the tower was designed to be vertical but it tilted because of the softness of the soil. The tower consists of six beautiful levels of airy and elaborately adorned colonnades, and is 52 meters tall on the north side, 54 on the south side, with almost 300 steps leading all the way to the top. In 1990, the tower was closed to the public for safety reasons and restorations took place for over a decade.

Since, December 2001 it has been reopened but the number of visitors is strictly controlled, so you must book in advance. Battistero Located in Campo dei Miracoli, this Baptistery is the largest of its kind in all Italy. It was constructed in 1152 by Diotisalvi and different architectural styles where added during the next two centuries. Concluded with a Romanesque style and Gothic elements it contains a beautiful baptismal font and pulpit by Nicola Pisano. The other main attraction of the baptistery is its renowned acoustics, where you can enjoy singing a few notes and listening to the echoes it produces. Cattedrale di San Zeno this cathedral is one of the finest of the Romanesque period and has a strongly marked individuality. Conceived to replace the previous cathedral, the constructions began during the 12th century in two different phases but still in the 21st century its façade has suffer restorations. Buscheto was the architect of this beautiful white marble building, followed by Rainaldo. Inside you can admire the monolithic columns made of granite, as well as, its silver altar and figures by Brunelleschi. Definitely a monument you don’t want to miss while visiting Pisa. Camposanto next to the Cathedral and Baptistery you can find this beautiful graveyard built in 1278 by Giovanni di Simone. Legend says, the soil came from Holy Land and it was believed to be miraculous. Only the most illustrious teachers and member of the Medicean family had their graves here. The graveyard was decorated with frescoes made by the most famous painters of the 14th century, and also with Roman sculptures, ancient sarcophagi and statues. Although, during the war, in 1944 the cemetery was bombed and suffered a significant degradation.

The restorations began in 1990 and still today they are in progress, however, it remains an artistic high point and you must include this monument in your itinerary. Borgo stretto Nearby the Piazza del Duomo is Borgo Street, one of the most charming places in the city thanks to its typical porticoes. Know as the main shopping street in Pisa, rich in all sorts of merchandise, from clothes to books, this area also offers many pubs and bars. During the evenings its packed with an impressive number of young people that gather here to enjoy its atmosphere. If you’re in the mood for aperitifs or a cocktail, stop by “Lo Sfizio”, known as one of the best meeting points in Borgo Street. Piazza Vettovaglie Craft shops are very uncommon in this part of the country, but you can still enjoy the Chicco delle Vettovaglie, a fair trade shop held in the lovely Piazza Vettovaglie. This square has also hosted a colourful market for over 500 years, where you can buy all kind of fruits, vegetables and typical food. Surrounded by a nice and elegant arcade of the sixteenth century, narrow and crowded streets, you definitely should stop by and enjoy this little piece of beauty. Museo della Navigazione After visiting towers, churches, squares and even a cemetery, you might still have time to stop by at the new museum of navigation. This forgotten port came back to life when in 1998 workers from the train station found 10 ancient roman wooden ships. Most of the content in the ships survived and are on display at this museum, including a sailors skeleton. Still today, excavations and restorations are in progress, so it has been called an “exhibition in progress”. Nevertheless, it offers an incredible archaeological site and its well worth a visit.

We propose you a daily trip in Lucca ‘La Bella’ a Jewel of a Tuscan Town.The first thing you will see arriving in Lucca are the town walls which are very well preserved and still today surround all the old town. Lucca is the only town in Italy entirely surrounded by the original walls. Imagine a beautiful little Tuscan town protected by massively thick 16th-century walls, featuring some of Italy's finest medieval and Renaissance architecture, superb dining, antique markets, classical and rock music festivals. Located in the North-West region of Tuscany, next to the seashore of Versilia and only 60 Km from Florence, easy access to stunning nearby villas in the surrounding hills, Lucca is one of Tuscany's best-kept secrets. The Lucchesi built their landscape “as their only preoccupation were beauty” It is a varied and generous landscape, abounding in life as well as silences, paths between the woods, valleys, meadows, and picturesque medieval villages.

If you visit Lucca you must have a nice walk along the walls. Lucca has one particularly stunning feature - ancient ramparts that ring the old city. The inhabitants built these brick walls in the 16th century for defence. Today, walk (or bike) around the city on the wide shaded walkways atop the walls. If that doesn't tire you out, climb up the Torre Guinigi - the 130 ft. tower has an ancient oak tree on top. Everything in the city of Lucca is to be seen, because the historical essence of the different styles has given rise to a harmonious building fabric which still today is well preserved and worth seeing. Two thousand years of Lucca history can be visited every day, strolling through the streets and squares of the city. Lucca boasts an enormous historical, natural and artistic heritage. Medieval, renaissance and 18th century fortifications that are peculiar to Lucca's province. A wealthy and colourful town that draws a more discerning tourist than Florence or Pisa, it is sufficiently off the beaten track to have kept its civility and reserve.

A wealth of treasures are conserved in the numerous collections of Lucca and its territory. While walking in the streets you can visit: Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Pfanner, Palazzo and Torre Guinigi. the latter is one of the few still existing, Torre delle Ore, Villa Boinvisi al Giardini, Castello di Nozzano, Fortezza del Cerruglio, Cattedrale di San Marino, Basilica di San Frediano, Chiesa di San Michele al Foro. and the Piazza Anfiteatro. On the ruins of the Roman amphitheater, churches and houses were built, which now form a beautiful oval square. A light lunch with wine tasting of Colline Lucchesi and Montecarlo wines will be held in typical restaurant or winery. You will have the chance to visit also the enormous and beautifully conserved villas and gardens of the Lucca hills which have become a major attraction for visitors to the town. The Villa Reale (Via Fraga Alta, Marlia, 5 kilometers from Lucca) features a guided tour of its vast gardens. The gardens and ground floor of the Villa Mansi, with its Baroque facade, are part of one of the most exquisite villas in the area (Segromigno in Monte, near Marlia).

This day trip will give you the possibility to get to know Cortona, a famous Tuscan centre, visited each year by many tourists. Its Etruscan origins along with the medieval characteristics gives this town an additional suggestive aspect, situated about 600 meters above sea level Cortona offers breath taking views over the Valdichiana countryside. With your tour guide/leader the first visit will be at the Fortezza del Girifalco (XII century) and the Basilica di Santa Margherita, after which you will be transported back in time when you visit the Convento delle Celle dating back to around 200’s, and then the Chiesa di Santa Maria Nuova, erected around the middle of the XVI century of Giorgio Vasari where prestigious pieces of art work are kept.

The morning continues with the entrance to the historical centre, where you will remain taken away by the beauty of the architecture hidden in the narrow medieval streets lunch will be held in a typical restaurant in the historical centre where you will be able to taste the delicious dishes of the local area. In the early afternoon you will have the possibility to visit Piazza Signorelli and the Museo Diocesano which is situated in the ex “church of Jesus” (Chiesa del Gesù), where it is possible to see paintings by Luca Signorelli and Beato Angelico. The tour continues with Palazzo Casali, with its medieval style with renascence face, and Piazza della Repubblica with the Palazzo Comunale and the Torre with the watch tower, and Piazza del Duomo. You will be enchanted whilst you go for relaxing walks in the streets of Cortona as you will also be when you arrive in Piazza Garibaldi, the true living room of this splendid town, with its breath taking views. Finally, on the way back you will stop off at the Chiesa di Santa Maria delle Grazie al Calcinaio, a wonderful church from the renaissance period thanks to the genius architecture of Francesco di Giorgio Martini.

Cortona, a famous Tuscan centre, visited each year by many tourists. Its Etruscan origins along with the medieval characteristics gives this town an additional suggestive aspect, situated about 600 meters above sea level Cortona offers breath taking views over the Valdichiana countryside. This day trip will give you the possibility to get to know the archaeological history of this wonderful town. In the morning you will depart with your tour guide/leader where the first stop will be the visit to the MAEC, that’s to say the Museo dell’Accademia Etrusca and the Città di Cortona, divided onto three floors and two underground which is considered one of the most innovated archaeological museums in Italy. It is situated in Palazzo Casali, one of the richest and antique cities in history, where in its vast expositive spaces you can find examples of what is considered extraordinary Etruscan works for example, Etruscan chandeliers and collects of bronze. Lunch will be held in a typical restaurant in the historical centre where you can try some delicious dishes from the area. In the early afternoon you will depart for the extra-urban trip to the Parco Archeologico, between Cortona, Camucia and local areas, where you will visit the finds of Tumulo di Camucia, di Melone del Sodo, Tanella Angori and Tanella di Pitagora to mention only a few. To conclude this extra-ordinary day you will be taken to the town of Ossaia to see the ruins of a particular villa.

During this daily excursion, you will visit the beautiful medieval towns of San Gimignano and Monteriggioni, both characterized by towers and medieval walls. San Gimignano city of the beautiful towers rich in history, art and culture is surrounded by the splendid Tuscan countryside, it is situated on a hill (334m above sea level) dominating the Elsa Valley. The town increased in wealth and developed greatly during the Middle Ages thanks to the "Via Francigena" the trading and pilgrim routes that crossed it. Such prosperity lead to the flourishing of works of art to adorn the churches and monasteries. The construction of the towers dates back to the 11th and 13th century. The architecture of the city was influenced by Pisa, Siena and Florence. There are 14th century paintings of the Sienese School to be seen and 15th century paintings of the Florentine school. Many artistic masterpieces can be found in most of the beautiful building of the city such as: The Duomo, The People's Palace, The Church of St.Agostino. The artistic itineraries will continue with The Ancient wash- houses , the fortress of Montesaffoli and the archaeological museum.

San Gimignano is also well known for the wine Vernaccia di San Gimignano, that has been mentioned for centuries throughout various official and scientific documents, literature etc. It’s well merited fame derives from its quality and its appraisable characteristics. (It seems that Dante Alighieri himself, while wondering among the gluttons of his Purgatory, happened upon Foreste Donati. He indicates to Dante an old man (Pope Martino IV) who is paying the price for having stuffed himself with eels alla Vernaccia….). You will have a wine tasting in one of the winery over there with light Lunch. On the way back you will stop in Monteriggioni, another marvellous example of medieval towns. Seen from a distance, the Castle of Monteriggioni with its walls and remaining towers takes you into the distant past, and gives an impression that time has come to a stand-still - both inside and outside of its walls. Even though the inhabitants and their ways of life have changed throughout the centuries, those that still choose to live in the castle today remain in touch with history and the old agricultural values, retaining the slow, natural rhythm of life. The image of the fortification on the hill-top, a sentinel in the defence of the Republic of Siena, has continually inspired travellers. Because of its beauty and position, it has become a natural magnet for tourists: Porta Romea, Piazza Roma, Porta San Giovanni, Torre via Matteotti, Church of San Giovanni, S.M. Assunta Church all these monuments will take you back in time.

During this daily excursion we will show you one of the finest and lesser known hilltop towns tucked away in the heart of Tuscany. Volterra, only a short distance from Florence 72 kms, Siena 50 kms, Pisa 64 kms and S.Gimignano 29 kms. Is Idyllically set amidst an evocative landscape of soft rolling hills and lush woodland abruptly defined by barren ,deep clay walled chasms gullies and ravines, Volterra, 545 metres above sea level, dominates and divides the Cecina and Era valleys. A haven of Etruscan, Roman, Medieval and Rennaissance art and architecture Volterra and its territory is a perfect choice for intensive study programmes or a peaceful relaxing holiday. Volterra is one of the town that shows, with archaeological evidences, that it has been favoured as a settlement since Neolithic age. First by the Etruscans, which gave form to one the major Lucumons named Velhatri, then from the Romans that had changed its name to Volaterra. Subsequently in the middle ages and during the renaissance Volterra grew in prosperity that enhanced the religious life but also the social, economic and jurisdictional value of the city. At the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century agriculture and the alabaster trade began to thrive, the roads were improved and the urban centre elaborated.

Today tourism is gradually becoming one of the main economic resources, as Volterra is not only endowed with historical monuments that illustrate three thousand years of history but it also offers three extremely interesting museums The Guarnacci Museum, the Art Gallery and the Museum of Sacred Art. Volterra still retains its medieval character, charm and atmosphere. It’s isolated position has impeded any progressive development. The defensive wall built in the 13th century was the result of an urban development that began in the year one thousand and was completed at the beginning of the 14th century. In the 5th century the city was reduced to a castrum which developed around the early church of Santa Maria (the cathedral) and the Pratus Episcopatus (Piazza dei Priori) and included the Piano di Castello, Porta all’Arco, via Roma, via Buonparenti, via dei Sarti and via di Sotto. Borgo di Santa Maria, the present via Ricciarelli and the Borgo dell’Abate (via Sarti) were beyond the castrum or castellum. The boundaries of the Prato were delimited by powerful groups of towers; the crux viarum of Buonparenti, Sant’Agnolo and Baldinotti. During the 13th century, the domus comunis (Palazzo dei Priori) was erected , the main square was defined and the height of the towers restrained. Behind the Palazzo dei Priori arose the religious square, the Piazza S.Giovanni which included the cathedral, the baptistery, la casa dell’Opera, the hospital of Santa Maria and the cemetery (the present via Turazza). The medieval structure has remained almost unchanged throughout the centuries and is still circumscribed by the four main medieval peripheral districts of Borgo di S.Alessandro, looking over the Cecina valley; S, Lazzaro towards Florence and Siena; S.Stefano and S.Giusto.

The latter, the farthest from the city, is near the Balze, dominated by the majestic church dedicated to the patron of the city , San Giusto. At the end of the 19th century the psychiatric hospital was built in the S.Lazzero area. Once an extensive complex, it has recently been transformed into a hospital. In the same area of S.Lazzero there is also the old railway station opened in 1912 that connected the city to Saline. The visit finishes with trip to some alabaster workshops, typical stone of the area.

This delightful down-hill walk is the perfect introduction to the artistic treasures of the charming birthplace of great Renaissance thinker and poet, Angelo Poliziano. Meet your expert authorized local guide and begin the visit at the austerely elegant Santa Maria dei Servi. Then make your way through the city gates and to the sober Duomo where you will enjoy the magnificent Gothic altar Retablo and majolica works of the della Robbia brothers. Proceed to the stately Piazza Grande where the most impressive Palazzi of the town can be admired. It is the ideal monumental centre of Montepulciano. It is one of the most beautiful squares of the minor towns which keep in silence recollections of past magnificence and high civilization. The square is boarded by important buildings: the Cathedral with its unfinished facade; on the left the unfinished Bell Tower dating back to the second half of the XV century. The Town Hall with its beautiful mid tower dates back to the XVI Century and recalls, at large, Palazzo Vecchio in Florence. It is a simple building with Guelph merlons and solid corbels. Then saunter along the main street; located along the top of a narrow ridge, Montepulciano snakes down the slope with virtually a single street – short side streets usually terminating in vertiginous drops. As such, all of the great families located their residences along this thoroughfare which today forms a veritable parade of fine noble architecture.

Montepulciano has many buildings and churches of architectonic interest: Palazzo Cappelli with frescoes by F. Zuccari at the entrance, the large threefold arcade of Loggia del Mercato, attributed to Scalza, Palazzo Cervini designed by Antonio da Sangallo the Old; Palazzo Cagnoni attributed to Vignola; the Seminary Palace close to which there is the Church of Jesus Christ designed by Andrea Pozzo in the XVII century. Palazzo Avignonesi which is attributed to Vignola and dates back to the XVI century. Close to the building you can admire the Baroque Church of St.Bernard, wanted by the Jesuit Father Andrea Pozzo. In front of Palazzo Avignonesi there is the late-Renaissance Palazzo Tarugi. Also this building is attributed to Vignola. Other Renaissance palaces board Via Roma: Palazzo Cocconi-Del Pecora, designed by Antonio da Sangallo, Palazzo Buccelli which presents at its basis frontages of Etruscan cinerary urns and tablets with Etruscan and Latin inscriptions. Palazzo Del Monte (today Contucci),Palazzo Nobili (today Tarugi) attributed to Antonio da Sangallo the Old, Palazzo Benincasa with the bust of Gian Gastone dei Medici in the portal. During the walk in the town you will have the opportunity to visit a mosaic school/workshop and to a copper-ware manufacture. After having visited the town, you get to Madonna di San Biagio by Antonio di Francesco Giamberti, called as Antonio da Sangallo the Old. It was consacrated by Pope Clement VII in 1529. It rises in open country. It was built on the remains of the ancient parish church of St. Blaise where, according to the tradition, the painting of Our Lady was seen moving her eyes. It presents a Greek-cross plan surmounted by a dome and with four equal wings. In the south wing there is a semicircular sacristy, whereas at both sides of the northern wing there are two bell towers, one of which is The beautiful well with its curved line is like to the well in Piazza Grande.

This excursion offers the possibility to get to know the beauty of Arezzo and the antique Aretium, one of the twelve Etruscan cities, followed by the Roman colony, which is protected by the appennino mountains. After your departure from the villa you will meet with your tour guide/leader. The first stop will be in the archaeological area, the Museo Archeologico, where you can see materials from Aretino and where you will also find collections from various provinces. After this you will visit the Anfiteatro Romano, built between the I and the II century A.C., which can hold up to 8.000 visitors. You will also have the possibility to visit Piazza San Francesco, which is of enormous artistic interest due to the Church which is the host to impressive artistic works of Piero della Francesca, which is next to the Piazza del Popolo.

La Casa di Giorgio Vasari, also not to be missed for those who come to Arezzo, where you can find some paintings of this great painter, sculpture and architect. Lunch will be held at one of the restaurants in the centre of the city where you can try many local dishes. In the early afternoon, you will visit the Chiesa di San Domenico with its crucifix painted by Cimabue which hangs over the main altar, and then the Duomo. The Cathedral was built between the 200’s and 500’s, however the front is from the 900’s in neo gothic style, inside this historical building there are numerous pieces of art work. As soon as you enter the Cathedral you will visit the Museo Diocesano which hosts works by Signorelli and by Vasari, then moving on to the Chiesa di Santa Maria della Pieve, a magnificent example of Roman architecture. The tour concludes in Piazza Grande, the heart of this medieval city, extending in an upward direction.

During this excursion you will have the opportunity to visit one of the most most enchanting views in Tuscany. A mysterious "sword in the stone" said to have been thrust into a rock near Siena by a medieval knight proves that the legend of King Arthur, Excalibur and the Holy Grail originated in Tuscany, not Cornwall or Brittany, an Italian scholar claims. The sword, of which only the hilt and an inch or two of blade is visible, is preserved at the Gothic abbey of San Galgano at Montesiepi, about 19 miles (30 km) southwest of Siena. The Cistercian abbey, now ruined, was built to honor St Galgano, a 12th-century Tuscan nobleman named Galgano Guidotti who renounced a life of "arrogance, lust and violence" to become a hermit after seeing a vision of the Archangel Michael. To symbolize his rejection of war, he supposedly plunged his sword into the rock, which miraculously "parted like butter", leaving only the hilt exposed to form the shape of the Cross. It has been assumed that the Tuscan "sword in the stone" is a fake, made to echo the Celtic legend of King Arthur as told by Geoffrey of Monmouth and Chretien de Troyes and by Thomas Malory in his celebrated 15th- century Le Morte Darthur. But a study by the medieval historian Mario Moiraghi suggests that the story of St Galgano and his sword was the origin of the myth of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table, embellished by medieval troubadours as it spread from Tuscany.

The sword in the stone has been plunged by San Galgano into the rock emerging on the top of the hill in 1180. To honour the Saint, around it has been built a lovely round church. Only the hilt and a few centimetres of the blade protrude from the rock in the shape of a Cross. The Abbey of Saint Galgano has represented throughout the centuries an important stop and point of reference for travellers, pilgrims and people of every kind in the Val di Merse area, which was densely populated, rich in parish churches, castles, villages, churches and monasteries and that extends among the municipalities of Monticiano, Chiusdino, Murlo and Sovicille. San Galgano's hermitage on the hill called Montesiepi. The small round chapel of Montesiepi preserves the sword in the stone that San Galgano plunged into a rock to have an altar to pray at. The inside of the domed roof is constructed with 24 concentric circles of alternating white stone and terracotta - a different and very beautiful small "neo-Etruscan" space. The church also preserves a series a frescos by the Sienese painter Ambrogio Lorenzetti. (St. Galgano’s story is a bit unusual, but it’s very similar to St. Francesco’s one, that is much more famous. Born in Chiusdino in 1148 from Guido and Dionisia, Galgano Guidotti is said to be born for the intercession of the archangel Michael. Galgano led a dissolute life until the age of 20, when the Archangel Michael appeared to him in dream twice.

In this way began young Galgano’s conversion. He started to preach about Siena and in the nearby, until the time he withdrew to a hut that will become his Hermitage on the Mount Siepi. He met Pope Alessandro III who blessed him and encouraged him to build an Abbey near the hermitage. He came back to the hermitage where, despite her mother’s and Polissena’s (his fiancée) despair and the scorn of the others knights, he performed his only known miracle: he deeply stuck his sword in the stone (1180?), so that the hilt could form a cross. He died at the age of 33 on December, 3rd 1181. That was the same year when St. Francesco was born. According to the legend, on the occasion of his burial gathered the bishops of Volterra (Ildebrando Pannocchieschi), of Massa Marittima, of Siena and the Cistercian Abbots from Fossanova.

This daily excursion will allow you to enjoy a day of relax in the midst of nature, religion, art and wellness. After breakfast you will depart with your tour guide/leader to Monte Oliveto Maggiore where you will visit Abbazia territorial, founded in the 300’s in a oasis with rapid and steep calanque (forms of land which were once submerged in seawater) The church was built in the 400’s where the chapel still holds alfresco’s from the renaissance period of San Benedetto, produced by Luca Signorelli and Sodoma. Of notable interest are the bibliographical collections still held in the old convent. In the early afternoon you will depart for Bagno Vignoni, with a short stop at San Quirico D’Orcia, whilst going for a pleasant walk in the historical centre, you will stop for lunch in one of the typical town restaurants. Finally in the afternoon you will have the chance to visit the spa of Bagno Vignoni, characterised for its unspoilt structure. The town square isn’t as one would imagine as the water flows at 52°. The main pool is in the centre of the town, closet on three sides by a one and a half meter wall, surrounded by various buildings where Santa Caterina of Siena once stayed.

For those who wish to spend an entire day shopping. You will be taken to the magnificent Valdichiana Outlet Village. Departure from the villa in minibus will take place after breakfast, you will arrive directly to the Outlet store located in Farniole, near Foiano della Chiana. The first outlet store in Tuscany. This shopping haven has been built to represent a real fashion village, with squares, streets, terraces and bridges. A centre where people meet in the Piazza Maggiore, to buy an ice cream or a coffee or simply to shop. The category of merchandise available will satisfy even the most demanding of shoppers: clothing for men, women and children, sport accessories, shoes, leather goods, household products, perfumes, cosmetics, jewellery, rugs and carpets and much more. Lunch is at your choice (not included in the cost), in any of the restaurants in the Village which have numerous specialities, traditional Tuscan dishes prepared with care. For the younger members of the group there is also a play area, the largest play area in any Italian Outlet Village, where the kids can play and get together away from the traffic and a completely secure area.

Visits to Chiusi and Città della Pieve are for those who wish to admire the enchanting towns and arts of both Umbria and Tuscany in just one day. Together with your tour guide/leader you will start with Chiusi, which different from other Etruscan cities does not have the standard structure, but instead is a mosaic of an agricultural village. You will have the possibility to visit the Labirinto di Porsenna, a series of underground passages which branch out to the old part of the city, which is open only to tourists. This was an antique hydraulic system dig between the 400’s and 500’s A.C. The tour follows with a visit to historical centre and the Duomo, which is characterised by its isolated bell tower, under which there is a Roman swimming pool from the I century A.C. In the late morning you will depart for Città della Pieve, where you will have lunch in a typical restaurant with local dishes in the historical centre. In the early afternoon, you will start your tour of this renascence city defined by the fortress walls, with a height of around 500 meters, where the divine painter Pietro Vannucci also known as Perugino was born. You will visit Via Baciadonne in the historical centre which is classed as the tightest street in Italy, followed by the Cathedral dedicated to Santi Gervasio and Protasio, inside which you will find masterpieces by Perugino and Pomarancio. Also not to be missed is the “tower” Torre del Pubblico, erected around 1000 and stands at an impressive 38 meters, and the antique Rocca Perugina.

Dominating Umbria of a great height, Perugia is accessible by a modern escalator which lead to Rocca Paolina, order of Paolo III Farnese. Discover a suggestive and unexpected underground route which opens between the antique houses and modern technology, taking you directly into the historical centre, where you will find Corso Vannucci with a vast assortment of shops, la Fontana Maggiore, masterpiece of Giovanni Pisano in its gothic style, and Palazzo dei Priori, an architectural jewel with great artistic and city value. You will visit Pozzo Etrusco, great hydraulic master piece of the IV and III century, A.C. of impressive dimensions, Arco Etrusco, dates around the III century A.C. and very well preserved, and the Chiesa di San Francesco al Prato and therefore the Oratorio di San Bernardino. Before continuing the afternoon visit, lunch will be organised in one of the historical restaurants of the city. The second part of the day will continue with a visit to the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria, which hold many important regional and national artistic pieces, especially from the medieval and renaissance era, and to the Duomo di San Lorenzo. This memorable visit concludes with a visit to the Orto Botanico and the (medieval hamlet) Medioevale in Borgo XX Giugno, situated inside an antique complex blessed by San Pietro.

Assisi, this town is situated at the bottom of the rolling hills of Monte Subasio, Umbrian centre of spirituality, well known as being the birth place of San Francesco and Santa Chiara and also where they dwelled and finally passed away. This tour allows you to visit the most important religious destinations of the Assisi district. It is foreseen the visit of the Basilica Inferiore which has notable masterpieces of Giotto, Cimabue e Lorenzetti, and especially the crypt where the Corpo del Santo and the Cappella delle Reliquie is kept, after which the visit of the Basilica Superiore, you will be able to admire the central aisles portraying the history of San Francesco as seen by many important artists. The morning continues with a pleasant walk in the historical centre and a visit of the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Lunch will be held at a typical “trattorie” in the historical centre where you can enjoy traditional Umbrian dishes. The second half of the day continues with a visit to Eremo delle Carceri, situated near the natural caves in the hillside of Monte Subasio, frequented by hermits in the early Christian age, where San Francesco and his followers withdrew for contemplation and prayer. Another visit will take you to the Rocca Maggiore, notable for its trapezoide towered shape, with the tower of Mastio, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of Assisi from above. As you slowly return into the valley you can not miss the splendour of the Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, which protects la Porziuncola, the church that was restored by San Francesco, where he found his retreat.

Orvieto City located on the peak of a cliff of “tufa” which can be reached by a cable railway established by the Etruscans which offers artistic jewels without comparisons. In the morning together with the guide/leader you will visit the necropolis Etruscan crucifix in “tufa”, situated on the slope of the peak, after which using the cable car you will go into the city to visit the Duomo, an Italian masterpiece with its gothic face and its rich decoration and internal chapel. An interesting visit to a Private Museum specialized in renaissance and medieval Ceramic art located in an ancient furnace completed with lunch and the tasting of precious wines. Visit the Pozzo di San Patrizio, erected in 1527, next to which is an unique Etruscan temple, The temple of Belvedere. Following this you will be immerged in the fascinating underground Orvieto, before departing you will have the chance to do some shopping in the Duomo area.

The Lago Trasimeno is the largest lake in mainland Italy, it is situated perfectly central close to route that lead to Rome but at the same time easily reachable and secluded. That’s to say it has its own particular location. Within this tour you will have the possibility to cross the lake and visit the north part of the territory. After breakfast you will depart for Tuoro, where together with the tour guide/leader you will visit the Centro di Documentazione Permanente sulla Battaglia del Trasimeno (documental centre on the battle of the Lake Trasimeno), a permanent exhibition on Hannibal and the various theories about the battle “Battaglia del Trasimeno”. In the late morning you will depart from here and take the ferry to Isola Maggiore. Lunch will be held in a typical restaurant on the island. During the afternoon you can visit the island, visiting the main historical hamlet, the Castello Guglielmi in neo gothic style, which is at present being restored and various churches, such as Chiesa di S. Michele Arcangelo (XIII century), situated on the peak of the island, characterised by a single aisle with visible ceiling and beams, not to mention the ceiling of the abse with transepts and alfresco’s. In the late afternoon, you will leave the island with the ferry and go to Passignano. Once you have arrived, you can relax in this splendid location, which is ideal for lovely walks by the lake.

The Lago Trasimeno is the largest lake in mainland Italy, it is situated perfectly central close to route that lead to Rome but at the same time easily reachable and secluded. That’s to say it has its own particular location. Within this tour you will have the possibility to cross the lake and visit the south part of the territory. After breakfast you will depart for Castiglione del Lago, where together with the tour guide/leader you will visit the Rocca del Leone, one of the best examples of medieval military Umbrian architecture. From here you can take in the breathtaking views of the entire lake, as the Rocca is connected to a calcerous spur which is dominant over he entire lake. You will also visit the Palazzo della Corgna, with its typical feudal style, is inserted in the antique house of Baglioni and the already existing boundary walls. At around lunch time, you will depart in the minibus for a pleasant journey to your typical trattoria for lunch, passing through characteristic local towns and the entire coast line of the lake. In the early afternoon, you will depart from San Feliciano, where you get the ferry to Isola Polvese, simple uncontaminated beauty, where you will spend the entire afternoon in complete relax either on the lawn or on the beach by the lake. Visits to monuments on the island include the remains of the Monastero di San Secondo, del Castello Medioevale, and the Chiesa di San Giuliano. In the late afternoon, you will return to San Feliciano by ferry and subsequently return to your villa.

Torgiano and Deruta are two major centres in the green heart of Umbria only a few kilometres from Perugia and Assisi. After breakfast you will meet your guide/leader, your first stop will be at the Museo del Vino Lungarotti, which is situated in part of the agricultural land of the monumental Palace Graziani-Baglioni, summer residence of the aristocrats of the XVII century, where there is an important collection of technical illustrations of the vine culture and wine making in Umbria: antique and modern objects, manuscripts, texts and incisions that tell the story of vines and wines. After which you will visit the Museo dell’Olivo and dell’Olio, created together with the project of the museum of wine. Lunch will be based on typical products with red wine tasting (Torgiano) and oil products. After a brief visit to the medieval hamlet in the early afternoon, you will depart for Deruta, characterised by the millennial tradition of ceramics, well known for decorative vases, plates and objects of variable shapes. You will visit the Museo della Ceramica. Before leaving you will have the possibility to participate in a direct yet guided way the stages in the production of a ceramic masterpiece, this will take place in an artisan laboratory of the town.

Todi, Etruscan city located at the peak of a hillside, founded between the VIII and the VII century A.C. by the Umbrian’s. This was the birthplace of Iacopone da Todi, notable medic and poet. In the morning, after you have met with your tour guide/leader you will visit the Tempio della Consolazione, majestic temple from the renaissance period projected by Bramante, the Chiesa di San Fortunato and last but not least the Piazza with its unique balance between the three town palaces and the cathedral. Lunch will be a wonderful experience tasting traditional dishes in a local restaurant in the historical centre. In the early afternoon you will depart for the Lake of Corbara. During the journey, you will note the blooming forests, blessed with typical fauna, with its notable corrosive abyss which creates deep breaks in the base, which borders the lake until finally reaching the town Civitella del Lago. Also known as cittadella del belvedere, from its 476 meters above sea level provides a new insight on the impressive Media Valle del Tevere which dominates the lake rediscovering a breathtaking views. Visits to the historical centre will allow you to visit the Piazza del Belvedere, l’Arco di Diomede, and Porta Tuderte, with monumental courtyard and internal staircases. Before departing a visit to the Scavi di Scoppieto, where you can see the remains of a productive Roman complex.

This tour will allow you to get to know the marvellous town of Spoleto, known for its antique – medieval era, and the major city festival of Festival dei Due Mondi. After breakfast, together with your tour guide/leader you will visit Piazza della Libertà where you can admire the beautiful views of Teatro Romano, you will go for pleasant walks within the historical centre, until you find yourselves in front of the impressive complex of the Duomo, erected in the XII century and characterised, known not only for its rich internal furnishings but also by the mosaics imitating the Byzantine style on the front of this splendid building. Before lunch in a typical restaurant in the heart of Spoleto, you will visit another impressive Roman building, the Chiesa di Sant’Eufemia. In the early afternoon, after a panoramic walk around the city and the local town of la Rocca Albornoziana, erected by the order of the Cardinale Albornotz during the reign of the pontificate Innocenzo VI. Before returning down the hill, it will be easy to reach the Ponte delle Torri, an imposing structure. Mid way through the afternoon, it is foreseen the departure for the Fonti del Clitunno, located in Campello sul Clitunno. This well known small lake has a vast park surrounding it which is home to many species of vegetation.

The town of Cascia is situated at 563 meters above sea level near the Corno river. Cascia was founded during Roman times, even if nothing remains which remembers those times, due to devastation by barbaric tribes and the earthquakes which have always disturbed the town and the neighbouring cities. As with the major part of the Umbria's towns, Cascia experienced its period of major splendour during the Middle Ages. Formerly under the dominion of Foligno, it later passed under the rule of Frederick II of Swabia. Later, the neighbouring cities of Norcia, Leonessa and Spoleto unsuccessfully fought over the town. Finally, only at the beginning of the 16th century, Cascia surrendered to the Papal State under whose rule it remained for less than 30 years. After that, it has always maintained its independence. When speaking of Cascia's history, it is necessary to mention its most illustrious personage, who illuminated the city and rendered it famous all over the world, even today: Saint Rita of Cascia. This nun, who was beatified in 1900, lived from 1381 until 1457.

Respecting her father's wishes which led her to marry and not to enter an Augustine convent, as she would liked, St. Rita lived in continual terror of her husband for 18 years. Her exemplary life induced even her husband to convert. Her life had a tragical end; she died in mysterious circumstances. Her children also died soon after. Nowadays this Saint, who is known to grant wishes, is venerated all over the world and many pilgrims undertake the journey to the Sanctuary of Saint Rita which has been dedicated to her memory. The city's medieval architectural jewels are worth a visit: the Gothic church of St. Francis, which will astound you because of the beauty of its rose-window and of its ogival portal and the church of St. Anthony Abate, dating back to the 15th century but reconstructed and modified during the baroque era. In the latter's interior, you'll admire a cycle of paintings depicting the life of the Saint. The Collegiate church of St. Mary is one of the city's oldest buildings: its origins go back to longobard times, even if it has been notably modified because of damage caused by subsequent earthquakes. You'll find impressive works of art in the inside, such as a wooden Cross of the 15th century. The church of St. Augustine also dated back to the Gothic era; inside, it contains stupendous examples of frescoes of the Umbrian and Perugian schools. The basilica and monastery of St. Rita are of great historical and religious importance, and have become world-famous religious centres. Finally, Carli Palace, with its interior, is perhaps the building which best represents the city's civil architecture. Situated at 604 meters above sea level between the Sordo and Torbidone rivers, the town of Norcia, in ancient times known as "Nursia",is the region's largest town. The city's origins go back to ancient times: already during the Punic wars between the Romans and the Phenicians, Norcia was of great importance as has been recorded by Roman historians. Later, during Roman times, the town gained political importance: first, as prefecture and then as a township. Upset by the Longobards and then by the Goths, it later recovered and became an active town during the Middle Ages. Its historical treasures have been damaged for the major part by the very frequent earthquakes with have devastated the town during the centuries. The first recorded earthquake in fact dates back to the first part of the 6th century. However, due to a very meticulous restoration, the city is now able to show its original structure, with its splendid medieval and lordly architecture.

As with the town of Cascia, Norcia was the birth-place of a great religious personage: St. Benedict who was the first monk of Christian faith and the founder of the Benedictine order. He lived at the end of the 6th century between prayer and the humility of work, as he himself synthesized in his famous words: "Prayer and Work". The city is worth an excursion for the restaurants which offer the typical regional cuisine, and for a more attentive and profound visit, for its important works of art, which are all to be found in its old city walls. In this sense, the Gothic church of St. Benedict, is impressive, built in the shape of a Latin cross with a poligonal apsis and with a beautiful ogival portal. Its interior is built on two levels: above, you'll find the main church while the crypt is to be found below. Inside, you'll find precious frescoes and paintings dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries. The outside of the church preserves its original structure in only one part of the facade. A portico gives movement to the right-hand lateral side of the church until the bell-tower. The Cathedral, on the other hand, dates back to the Renaissance period; unfortunately, not much of the original building has remained, as restoration during the baroque era has changed its architectural style. Another impressive example of Renaissance architecture, this time civil, is the "Castellina", a four-sided strong-hold built by Vignola and nowadays seat of the Municipal Diocesan Museum. The church of St.Augustine, worth a visit because of its ogival portal which in its lunette contains a well-preserved fresco of the Madonna and Child with St. Augustine, and that of St. John, which, not like the former, has lost its original structure because of modifications during the baroque era, both date back to the 14th century. The church of St. Francis with its rose-window which opens upon its facade, is also noteworthy.

Near Norcia, the small town of Serravalle offers the magical atmosphere of a village lost among the green Umbrian hillside. For trekking lovers and walkers, the plain of Castelluccio offers a truly unique spectacle, in particular during Spring-time when the meadows, because of the flowers in bloom, assume a thousand different tonalities mixed together in a multitude of colours.

The ancient small town of Roman origin called Bevagna is to be found on the western fringe of the Foligno plain, at the foot of the group of hills where Montefalco rises up and near the loop of the river Timia. Its modern-day appearance is surely the result of its development during the Middle Ages. In fact, even if the Roman had constructed the ancient Menania in such a way that the Flaminia Road was the decuman axis of the town, the town's center is now placed more to the South. In Piazza Silvestri, you absolutely should not miss the Gothic Palace of the Consuls, situated singularly slantwise to the streets, and the churches of St. Sylvester (1195 B.C.) and St. Michael Arcangel; the fountain which completes the scene of this exceptional public area is, however, an adaptation dating back to the 19th century. Montefalco, which is placed in a dominating position looking down on the valleys of the Topino and the Clitunno rivers, offers the viewer of a sweeping panorama of the Umbrian countryside. Infact is called the Umbrian Terrace.

Among the most important typical products in the city we should absolutely mention the Sagrantino of Montefalco wine. of which you will have a tasting in one of the farm producing it. As with the the greater part of the medieval towns in this area. Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG or Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG wines are named after the Sagrantino grape from which they are made. Cultivated for centuries on the hills of Umbria, Sagrantino is considered autochthonous, although there are various theories as to its origin. This DOCG makes a major contribution to the reputation the Region of Umbria has earned as producer of fine wines, known and consumed by popes and governors during the Renaissance. During this splendid tour you will be taken to wine cellars for wine tasting and you will also taste the traditional menu's prepared in this local area. You will return to the villa late afternoon.

The tour starts with the morning departure for Civita di Bagnoregio, a completed isolated region of Lazio, reachable only via a cement passenger bridge. Together with your tour guide/leader you will notice that this isolation has been created by the progressive erosions of the hillsides and the surrounding valley, until creating suggestive and rapid forms in the rocks. You will also see the hamlet and some houses from the medieval area, the Chiesa di San Donato which is facing the Piazza Principale, il Palazzo Vescovile and a mill from the 500’s. before departing for Bolsena you can also visit the house where San Bonaventura was born, and the Porta di Santa Maria which is notable for the two statue lions which hold a human tusk under their paws. Lunch will be at one of the many restaurants in Bagnoregio where you ca try many local dishes. In the early afternoon you will depart for Bolsena. Once arrived at the city which gives its name to the lake, you will visit the Basilica di Santa Cristina, a Roman building dating from the XI century, its front in renascence style and the bell tower dating from the 300’s, with the Cappella del Miracolo, which protects the blood marked stone from the Miracolo Eucaristico in 1263, and the Grotta di Santa Cristina. In mid afternoon the tour continues to the Rocca Monaldeschi, an interesting location due to the breath taking views over the entire lake and the presence of the Museo Territoriale. To end this splendid tour you will visit the Etruscan – Roman city of Volsinii.

During this daily excursion you will know a little bit more of a part of our country denominated Tuscia that is located at the border of Lazio; Umbria and Tuscany…… According to local tradition, it was the Etruscans who once lived in the villages in the north of Lazio, that gave the region its name - Tuscia. These villages are still situated in the same strategic positions as they were 3000 years ago. The region is located to the north of Rome and it has borders with both Tuscany and Umbria. The landscape is a varied one, ranging from the Cimini Hills to Maremma, a wide and wild stretch of land along the coast of the Tyrrenhian sea. Viterbo, an ancient medieval city once host to the Papal court, is the administrative centre of the province, a stone's throw from the volcanic lakes of Vico and Bolsena. In the run of History Tuscia has been inhabited by different civilizations, first of which the Etruscans, who populated the area between the 8th and the 3rd century B.C. During this period Tuscia acquainted a high rank of culture and business as it became one of the most important terminals for trade with minor Asia and Greece. The Middle Ages represented the political and religious rising of Viterbo which became the popes seat for about seventy years until the famous Conclave. The coeval romanesque basilicas of S. Pietro and S. Maria Maggiore of Tuscania, undoubtley represent a mile stone in the Italian history of art. Renaissance was an era of culture and travelling which marked a new term between man and Universe also thanks to the new geographic discoveries carried out in that period. The Farnese Palace in Caprarola and the Villa Lante in Bagnaia are evidence of the vogue of those times rested on the grandeur of the patronage of important families.

The monster park of Bomarzo, built by Vicino Orsini towards the end of the 16th century, completes the panorama of the Renaissance villas in the province. The old city of Viterbo is still today enclosed from powerful walls in lava stone whose construction is begun in 1095 and completed in 1268. They are high beyond ten meters, with towers very conserved and still intact medieval doors; the nucleus of Viterbo has maintained medieval aspect in particular in the Quarter of Saint Pellegrino, with palaces and towers of XIII century. Monumental complex important of the City of Viterbo is undoubtedly the papal palace on the hill of the dome that represents great testimony of gothic architecture, with double lancet windows, merlons, arches; it is adorned from a splendid one loggia supported from once, while the public square is completed from the cathedral with renascimentale facade and its beautiful old bell tower. Most famous they are also the numerous Fontana’s at particular form, that they adorn to the roads and the Public squares of the City of Viterbo, going back for more to the same period. Other important monuments in Viterbo are the rocca Albornoz, Center of the national museum and the saint church Maria of the truth, then palace Farnese-chigi, of the Podestà and the common one, with its high tower very 44 meters. In the outskirtses of Viterbo Italy the church of S. Maria of the oak, Harmonious rinascimentale construction, the villa Lante di bagnaia, Designed from the vignola, the ruins roman of Ferento and those Etruscans of castel d'Asso are found.

Villa Lante at Bagnaia near Viterbo, attributed to Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola is, with Bomarzo, one of the most famous Italian 16th century Mannerist gardens of surprises. The first shock to a visitor coming fresh from Villa Farnese Caprarola is the difference of two Vignola villas in the same area, period and architectural mannerist style: there is little if any similarity. The villa is known as the "Villa Lante". However, it did not become known as this until the villa it was passed to Ippolito Lante Montefeltro della Rovere, Duke of Bomarzo in the 17th century, when it was already 100 years old. Palazzo Farnese di Caprarola, o Villa Farnese, that dominates the historic centre of Caprarola, 18 km from Viterbo. Construction of the palace started at the turn of the sixteenth century over a pre-existing pentagonal fortress started by Sangallo, and it is considered one of the masterpieces of late Italian Mannerism. It was built by Cardinal Alexander Farnese, nephew of Paul III, who had the plans drawn up by a group of architects led by Jacopo Barozzi of Vignola. It was intended to consecrate the power and glory of the strong family of European rank. Inside the palace there is a superb cycle of frescoes and decorations done based on a study by Annibal Caro and entrusted to a group of artists, including the Zuccari brothers, Bertoja, Giovanni de' Vecchi Raffaellino da Reggio, Giovanni Antonio da Varese, Antonio Tempesti and others. The result is a princely residence that interprets every detail of courtly life, crowded with artists, men of letters, men of art and culture, family members and servants - all of whom are included in a strict hierarchy that has masterfully been transferred to the constructional work that places the "gentleman" at the top of the social scale, in a world far tram human misery. The piano Nobile, accessed by a magnificent spi­ral staircase, is reserved for him.

A magnificent park-garden opens out in a vast area behind the palace and, while repeating the motifs of the late Renaissance it is an anticipation of the architectural concepts of the Baroque. The garden is accessed through the Sala dei Giudizi that opens out onto the winter garden. At back of the garden is the Fontana del Ninfeo, filled with stalactites. On the right, past a gate and across the park you come to first terrace of the garden looking out onto the Palazzina del Piacere. The entrance is guarded by two half-figures on a pedestal. The Fontana del Giglio is in the centre and on the sides there are two pavilions decorated in rustic mosaic, preparing the access to a staircase divided by a stream of water - known as Delfini - that ends in a large shell. On the second elliptical terrace is the Fontana dei Fiumi, with two giants symbolising the Tigris and Euphrates. Off to the sides, two symmetrical ramps lead to the level of the Caryatids, surrounded by 28 statues.

The Palazzina del Piacere is in the background - an elegant structure with a courtyard and a loggia richly decorated with frescoes. Lastly, you ascend to the top terrace with a travertine fountain and a hemicycle of the nymphs. The bosco sacro, Better known as the "Parco dei Mostri" - or Park of Monsters is located about one kilometre from the town of Bomarzo on the slopes the castle. This unusual work was done during the second half of the sixteenth century by Pier Francesco Orsini, an original and eclectic figure of the Italian Renaissance. The "monsters" are carved from volcanic rock scattered throughout the park, without any specific overall plan but based on the inspiration offered by the park's physical features. Nevertheless, the unity of these works is ensured by the restless search for the extravagant and the constant counterpoint between the artificial and the surrounding natural environment. The sculptural works at the Bomarzo complex reveal Orsini's predilection for open shapes, in which the viewer's eye encounters seemingly fortuitous perspectives as well as the artist's passion for different artistic ex­pressions that are unusual for sixteenth-cen­tury Italian culture and show a decisive trend towards the Baroque.The park of Monsters of Bomarzo was devised by the architect Pirro Ligorio (he completed the Cathedral of Saint Peter in Rome after the death of Michelangelo and built Villa d'Este in Tivoli) on commission of Prince Pier Francesco Orsini, called Vicino, only to vent the heart broken at the death of is wife Giulia Farnese, The park was born in 1552 as "Villa of Wonders" to be the only one of it's kind in the world.