Travel Guides: Italy Travel Guide: Overview
In Southern Europe—right in the heart of the Mediterranean—lies a boot-shaped country stuffed to the brim with culture, history and fine cuisine.
Tuscany and Umbria must be experienced up close. Taste the traditional recipes and fine wines. Breathe in the aroma of bread toasting in a stone fireplace, glistening with freshly pressed olive oil. Stroll through vineyards and hilltop towns. Let your eyes linger on ancient villas. Imagine the possibilities. There is no better—or closer—way to experience the heart of Italy.
THIS ITINERARY: 6 days, 5 nights
ACCOMMODATIONS: Premiere Hotels
Start Orte / End Florence
Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
You’re in Italy’s Green Heart, so called for its agricultural riches—get ready to savor black truffles, salamis and rare mountain formaggi (cheeses) | Wander through Norcia’s idyllic medieval center, the birthplace of St. Benedict and a significant center of modern monasticism | Hike a ridge trail up to the top of Monte Abuzzago, where spectacular views of the high alpine landscape await | Relish unforgettable Umbrian wines and haute cuisine at the Bianconi family’s Michelin-starred Vespasia restaurant | Vacation at an enchanting Relais & Château hideaway.
Housed in an artfully restored 16th-century palace, this elegant hotel is the perfect place to unwind and discover Umbria. A Relais & Châteaux member. (spa)
Follow an ancient pilgrimage route to the World Heritage city of Assisi, nestled on the flanks of Monte Subasio | Take time to explore the Gothic and Romanesque architecture in what was once the home of St. Francis | Visit historic hilltop Cortona, surrounded by 3,000-year-old Etruscan walls, and the setting for Under the Tuscan Sun | A one-of-a-kind stay awaits at our luxurious hotel.
Feel welcomed like family by owner David Papi at this refined and superbly appointed 18th-century country home, rated one of the top hotels in Italy and a Backroads-exclusive property. (pool)
Deep in Tuscany, be immersed in the picture-perfect landscape of the Val d’Orcia | Have a look around Renaissance-style Pienza, a World Heritage site, perhaps stopping to try the superb local pecorino cheese | Discover the rustic beauty of Chianti, hiking through the vineyards where the famed wine is produced | Learn everything about the antique Black Rooster League and the centuries-long war between Florence and Siena | Laze over cappuccinos, listening to locals swap stories in sleepy cobblestone villages | Extend your Italian vacation in incomparable Florence.
Stunning views of the Tuscan countryside and exceptional hospitality await at this elegantly restored castle-hotel. (pool, spa)
The earlier you book, the more choice you'll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won't be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. View cancellation policy
SMALL GROUP? TRY RENDEZVOUS
An extra leader and van for even more flexibility | +$2,400 for Europe and +$2,900 for North America | Call us to book your Rendezvous
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy.
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next—and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do. LEARN MORE.
Note: The terrain on this trip includes vineyard footpaths and wooded trails.
In Southern Europe—right in the heart of the Mediterranean—lies a boot-shaped country stuffed to the brim with culture, history and fine cuisine.
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