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Tuscany, between vineyard, art and old stones
5 stops
10 nights
174 miles
Florence: an architectural journey
Above all, Tuscany embodies elegance. With exquisite palaces, gastronomy and scenery, it belongs in these lands where the absolute Art of living is represented through history, generosity and the talent of humankind. Driving up the lanes in the vineyards to find a hilltop village, taking stock and then hurtling back downhill past the guard of cypress trees has to be tried. This itinerary reveals the very essence of this atmosphere. From the artistic wealth in Florence to the infinitely diverse wines that extol the terroir here. You'll be enthralled at the ingenious construction of the villages of Asciano, Pienza and San Gimignano. And by Sienna's enchanting beauty. Tuscany is a graceful land.
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Departure
Recommended duration : 2 nights
Florence
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For lovers of art and architectural heritage, Florence is a destination in itself _ its historic center has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1982. Symbol of the Renaissance, the city is associated with the name of the Medici family and their incredible creative spirit. Visitors can spend days visiting every corner of the sublime Duomo, the Uffizi Palace, the Pitti Palace or the Santa Croce Church. The works of Giotto, Botticelli, Piera della Francesca, Donatello, Michelangelo are suffused through the Tuscan capital.
Things to do, see, and discover
During your stay
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Italian elegance, the Via Tornabuoni and the Scuola del Cuoio (Florence)
The Italian fashion boutiques along the Via Tornabuoni have turned this street into an icon of shopping chic. Here, Gucci, Prada, Ugolini and Ferragamo compete to offer shoppers the very best in fashion. Close to the Santa Croce basilica, the leather school continues Florence's demanding tradition of fine leather goods. The models crafted by the students are designed to keep... forever.
During your stay
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Diving into the Uffizi Gallery, Florence
If you only needed one reason – or excuse – to go to Florence, a visit to the Uffizi Gallery would be it. At the heart of a palace built in 1560, its exceptional collections offer a complete vision of Italian painting, from the primitives to the 17th century. The paintings of Uccello, Botticelli, da Vinci, Michelangelo and Raphaël are worth the journey alone...
On the road
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Exploring the Chianti routes
Discover the incomparable charm of Chianti's lanes and wine-growing villages by car. Castellina, Radda, Badia a Coltibuono… these sun-kissed villages, often perched on top of imposing hills, rise out of the vineyards, symbols of the peerless Tuscan art de vivre and know-how.
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39 milesCar
Recommended duration : 2 nights
Volterra
Things to do, see, and discover
During your stay
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Arnolfo Ristorante
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44 milesCar
Recommended duration : 2 nights
Castelnuovo Berardenga
Things to do, see, and discover
During your stay
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Taste vintage Chianti wines at the Castello di Meleto and Barone Ricasoli vineyards
These two vineyards symbolise the tradition and refinement of Chianti wines and are a must on any visit to the region. The incredible Castello di Meleto overlooks 180 hectares of vineyards from its ancient hillock, while the Ricasoli fortress is home to a noble Tuscan family, heirs to several centuries of wine-growing expertise.
During your stay
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Visit the Montegrossi tower
Several kilometres before you reach the village of Gaiole, the remains of the tall keep of a 12th century castle stretch from the peak of one of the highest hills in the Chianti region. _ From here, enjoy exceptional views over the countryside, including the towers of Sienna on a clear day...
On the road
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Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore
Lovers of religious architecture should definitely visit this splendid 14th century abbey nestling amid the cypress trees. The highlight of the monastery is the main cloister, decorated with frescoes recalling the life of Saint Benedict. Wine lovers should also visit the cellar to taste the delicious vintages produced by the monks.
On the road
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Visit the village of Asciano
A typical hill-top village far from the tourist trail, Asciano is a symbol of “eternal Tuscany”, its undulating hills and neat rows of cypress trees. Ruined ramparts, a delightful 11th century church, a virgin landscape ripe for photographing... there's no better place than Asciano to look deep into the soul of Tuscany.
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42 milesCar
Recommended duration : 2 nights
Montalcino
Things to do, see, and discover
On the road
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Vino Nobile, an inimitable wine! (Montepulciano)
Produced in the vicinity of the small town bearing the same name, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano was one of the first Italian wines awarded the prestigious DOGC designation in 1980. As early as the 14th century, its fame was such that Vino Nobile was exported beyond its provincial borders. Pope Paul III himself was said to have praised the wine. Today, this wine made from Sangiovese grapes continues to delight wine experts, connoisseurs, and professionals alike...
On the road
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Discover the « Città ideale »: Pienza
This modest Sienna town is a rare complete example of Renaissance urbanism. The 15th century “Città ideale” (ideal town), built by Pope Pius II in his native village, symbolises urban perfection as embodied by the meticulous arrangement of buildings (Duomo, palace, etc.) around the Pio II piazza.
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50 milesCar
Recommended duration : 2 nights
Cortona (Arezzo)
Things to do, see, and discover
During your stay
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Street Chef, cuisine in the streets of Cortona
Held on the last Friday of July, Street Chef is an extraordinary event that attracts all the food connoisseurs within this Etruscan city. For the occasion, Cortona's restaurant owners and chefs leave their kitchens to work side-by-side in the narrow lanes and squares of the old city in an entirely festive atmosphere. This is the time for chefs to share their savory dishes along with the local wine.
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