Tuscany's Hidden Gems: 9-Day Road Trip

Plan For The Day:

• Embark on a one-hour drive to Siena, one of the must-see cities in Tuscany. 
• Start your exploration at Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s most famous medieval squares. Next, marvel at the gothic architecture of the Duomo di Siena.
• After exploring, indulge in more of the region’s renowned Tuscan cuisine and wines.
• For a deeper dive, you can purchase a joint ticket to explore Siena’s Cathedral, crypt, baptistery, and museum. If you're up for it, join a walking tour of the city to fully experience its charm.
• Don’t miss other highlights like the Santa Maria della Scala museum, Torre del Mangia, Palazzo Pubblico, Piazza del Campo, and the Basilica Cateriniana, which houses the head of St. Catherine.

Day's Journey:

• Start your scenic drive through Val d'Orcia (1 hour), with a stop in Chiusure for stunning Tuscan views.
• Next, head to Montalcino, a must-visit 14th-century town known for its military layout, imposing fortress, and narrow streets. Take in the incredible valley views, and explore the Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art.
• Visit the Church of Sant’Agostino, Sanctuary of the Madonna del Soccorso, and the Church of Sant’Egidio. Montalcino is also famous for Brunello wine, as well as local honey and olive oil. Don’t miss the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, a stunning example of French Romanesque architecture.
• Continue to San Quirico d'Orcia, a walled town with beautiful churches and the symmetrical Horti di Leonini garden. Just outside the town, you’ll find the iconic cypress trees, a symbol of Val d’Orcia, featured in many Tuscan photographs.
• End your day in Chianciano Terme, where you’ll relax and spend the night.
   

Suggestion For The Day: 

• Start your day with a visit to Castello Banfi, one of the largest and most renowned wineries in Italy and Europe. Located in Montalcino, it spans over 3000 hectares and offers an exceptional opportunity to explore its vast vineyards. If you're a wine lover, consider joining a winery tour followed by a delightful 5-course wine-paired lunch at the winery’s La Taverna restaurant.
• Afterward, head to the charming hilltop village of Pienza, located in the heart of Val d’Orcia. Known as the "ideal city of the Renaissance," Pienza was designed by the famous humanist Enea Silvio Piccolomini, later Pope Pius II. The town offers extraordinary panoramic views and is famed for its Pecorino cheese, a delicious sheep’s milk cheese that makes a perfect souvenir.
• Spend the evening in Monticchiello, where you’ll spend another peaceful night.

For The Last Day: 

• On the 8th day of your road trip, begin the journey back to Rome. Take a relaxing stop at Terme di Saturnia, a natural hot spring located about 1.5 hours from Monticchiello. Enjoy the rejuvenating waters and tranquil surroundings before continuing your drive to Rome, which will take approximately another 2.5 hours.
• Once in Rome, explore the city's iconic sights such as Vatican City, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum, and the Trevi Fountain.
• To end your adventure in the best possible way, treat yourself to a final, memorable Italian dinner.

• Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time to explore some highlights and finish with any last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Head to the Piazza del Popolo for a leisurely stroll or enjoy the views from the Pincio Terrace. If you haven't yet, indulge in a bit of shopping along Via del Corso or near the Spanish Steps, where you’ll find both luxury brands and unique Italian boutiques.
• As your departure time approaches, drive to the airport, return your rental car, and check-in for your flight, cherishing the memories of your time in Rome.