Italy
The Hidden Medieval Villages of Tuscany and Umbria
Program No. 22977RJ
Go off the beaten path to discover the charming, lesser-known villages of Tuscany and Umbria. Learn about Roman history, sample delicious regional food and much more!
Enroll with Confidence
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more
Protecting the Environment
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Apr 7 - Apr 18, 2025
Starting at
3,749Apr 28 - May 9, 2025
Starting at
3,749May 5 - May 16, 2025
Starting at
3,749May 19 - May 30, 2025
Starting at
3,749Jun 2 - Jun 13, 2025
Starting at
3,749DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Feb 17 - Feb 28, 2025
Starting at
4,089Mar 17 - Mar 28, 2025
Starting at
4,089Apr 7 - Apr 18, 2025
Starting at
4,389Apr 28 - May 9, 2025
Starting at
4,389May 5 - May 16, 2025
Starting at
4,389May 19 - May 30, 2025
Starting at
4,389Jun 2 - Jun 13, 2025
Starting at
4,389Sep 15 - Sep 26, 2025
Starting at
4,389Sep 22 - Oct 3, 2025
Starting at
4,389Oct 6 - Oct 17, 2025
Starting at
4,389Not seeing the date you're looking for?
To be notified if dates of this program become available, click the button below.
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
12 days
11 nights
22 meals
10B 4L 8D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
7
Gubbio, To Spoleto
Spoleto (PG)
8
Spoleto
Spoleto (PG)
9
Assisi, Free Time
Spoleto (PG)
10
Perugia, Free Time
Spoleto (PG)
11
Orvieto, To Rome-Fiumicino, Free Time
Roma Fiumicino
12
Program Concludes
In Flight
At a Glance
The villages of Tuscany and Umbria have their own pace — a relaxed philosophy that flows along the colorful hillsides, quiet towns and timeless landscapes. Discover these idyllic regions as you explore the piazzas, churches and fortresses of Italy’s quieter gems that are often away from the flow of tourists. From Siena to the underground tunnels of Orvieto, the secrets of the Italian countryside wait to be discovered!
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two and half miles; some uneven ground and cobblestones. Stairs without railings.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Explore the Southern part of Tuscany, the Val d'Orcia, rich in beauty and charm.
- Delight in a field trip to the Collegio del Cambio in Perugia to admire Perugino's frescoes.
- Discover the mysteries of Orvieto, a hilltop village renowned for its Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption and the underground caves that were dug beneath the city 2,500 years ago.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Mario Carniani
A native of Fiesole, Italy, Mario Carniani graduated with honors from the University of Florence with a focus on foreign languages and literature. After pursuing studies on Elizabethan drama in England, he moved on to teach Italian at the British Institute of Florence and English in Italian State schools. He has conducted courses on Italian literature and history for numerous international institutes based in Florence, including Georgetown University and Dartmouth University.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Mario Carniani
View biography
A native of Fiesole, Italy, Mario Carniani graduated with honors from the University of Florence with a focus on foreign languages and literature. After pursuing studies on Elizabethan drama in England, he moved on to teach Italian at the British Institute of Florence and English in Italian State schools. He has conducted courses on Italian literature and history for numerous international institutes based in Florence, including Georgetown University and Dartmouth University.
Erika Cennini
View biography
Erika Cennini has worked in travel since she graduated. In addition to being a Club Med children’s animator, she has been a hotel receptionist, travel agent in Paris where she lived for ten years, an exploration manager around her beloved Italy, a local expert in her native Tuscany, a hiking leader just for fun, and a teacher for Italian students. Erika likes to travel as much as she can and. when working, enriches herself with the stories of people she welcomes in Italy.
Mick Plewman
View biography
Mick Plewman is an exploration leader with more than 20 years of experience working all over the world, from Central America to Sri Lanka. He is also a qualified teacher and educational psychologist who worked in the British school system and for the British Army. Mick has lived in Central Italy for more than two decades, where he is renovating an old farmhouse in Umbria. He enjoys traveling, reading, and studying the art and history of the many places he visits.
Marco Messina
View biography
Marco Messina was born in Rome and grew up in the quiet town of Arezzo. After a year of compulsory military service, Marco decided to go to university in Siena and study political science with a major in history. After taking a number of courses on the history of Tuscany Marco obtained a qualification as an official group leader for the cities and provinces of Arezzo, Florence, and Siena. Marco is also a guitarist with a love of the blues.
Pamela Santoni
View biography
Pamela Santoni realized by chance that her love for foreign languages and Renaissance art history could be her great job opportunity. She studied foreign languages and literatures at the University of Perugia. In 2005, she became a travel leader and expert. She spent many years searching for hidden stories behind the big names of the ancient and medieval history of Tuscany and Umbria. Since 2008, Pamela has collaborated with the German writer H.-Joachim Kracht, editing an encyclopedia about Catholic cardinals from 1058 to the present.
Ilaria Bichi Ruspoli
View biography
Ilaria Bichi Ruspoli was born and raised in Val d'Orcia, a World Heritage site located in Southern Tuscany. She is descended from an ancient Sienese family, related to Pope Pius II, that has lived in the same castle since 1465, and her family runs a historic farm. She graduated in art history from the University of Studies in Siena in 2002, and completed a Ph.D. in Sienese sculpture of the 16th century in 2008. Her background is in Medieval and Renaissance culture.
Caterina Zanobetti
View biography
Caterina Zanobetti is a licensed group leader because she loves arts, history, and visitors' curiosity. She likes telling stories, legends, and sharing the emotion of discovering the towns and beautiful places of her country. She was born in Rome, but has lived in Florence since she was a teenager. After working several years in an import-export, she decided to turn her passion into a job, and studied to become a group leader.
Suggested Reading List
(7 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
The Hidden Medieval Villages of Tuscany and Umbria
Program Number: 22977
St Francis of Assisi
The Rough Guide to Tuscany & Umbria
A Vineyard in Tuscany: A Wine Lover's Dream
Reluctant Saint: Life of Francis of Assisi
The Most Beautiful Country Towns of Tuscany (Most Beautiful Villages Series)
Walking and Eating in Tuscany and Umbria
Umbria: A Cultural History
Program
At a Glance
Duration
12 days
Program Begins
Siena
Program Concludes
Roma Fiumicino
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
22
| 10B |
4L |
8D |
Activity Level
The villages of Tuscany and Umbria have their own pace — a relaxed philosophy that flows along the colorful hillsides, quiet towns and timeless landscapes. Discover these idyllic regions as you explore the piazzas, churches and fortresses of Italy’s quieter gems that are often away from the flow of tourists. From Siena to the underground tunnels of Orvieto, the secrets of the Italian countryside wait to be discovered!)
Best of all, you'll...
- Explore the Southern part of Tuscany, the Val d'Orcia, rich in beauty and charm.
- Delight in a field trip to the Collegio del Cambio in Perugia to admire Perugino's frescoes.
- Discover the mysteries of Orvieto, a hilltop village renowned for its Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption and the underground caves that were dug beneath the city 2,500 years ago.
Featured Expert
Mario Carniani
A native of Fiesole, Italy, Mario Carniani graduated with honors from the University of Florence with a focus on foreign languages and literature. After pursuing studies on Elizabethan drama in England, he moved on to teach Italian at the British Institute of Florence and English in Italian State schools. He has conducted courses on Italian literature and history for numerous international institutes based in Florence, including Georgetown University and Dartmouth University.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Erika Cennini
Erika Cennini has worked in travel since she graduated. In addition to being a Club Med children’s animator, she has been a hotel receptionist, travel agent in Paris where she lived for ten years, an exploration manager around her beloved Italy, a local expert in her native Tuscany, a hiking leader just for fun, and a teacher for Italian students. Erika likes to travel as much as she can and. when working, enriches herself with the stories of people she welcomes in Italy.
Mick Plewman
Mick Plewman is an exploration leader with more than 20 years of experience working all over the world, from Central America to Sri Lanka. He is also a qualified teacher and educational psychologist who worked in the British school system and for the British Army. Mick has lived in Central Italy for more than two decades, where he is renovating an old farmhouse in Umbria. He enjoys traveling, reading, and studying the art and history of the many places he visits.
Marco Messina
Marco Messina was born in Rome and grew up in the quiet town of Arezzo. After a year of compulsory military service, Marco decided to go to university in Siena and study political science with a major in history. After taking a number of courses on the history of Tuscany Marco obtained a qualification as an official group leader for the cities and provinces of Arezzo, Florence, and Siena. Marco is also a guitarist with a love of the blues.
Caterina Zanobetti
Caterina Zanobetti is a licensed group leader because she loves arts, history, and visitors' curiosity. She likes telling stories, legends, and sharing the emotion of discovering the towns and beautiful places of her country. She was born in Rome, but has lived in Florence since she was a teenager. After working several years in an import-export, she decided to turn her passion into a job, and studied to become a group leader.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two and half miles; some uneven ground and cobblestones. Stairs without railings.
Small Group
(13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(7 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
Year
- 2025
Date and Direction
- Feb 17 - Feb 28 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Mar 17 - Mar 28 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Apr 07 - Apr 18 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Apr 28 - May 09 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- May 05 - May 16 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- May 19 - May 30 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Jun 02 - Jun 13 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 01 - Sep 12 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 15 - Sep 26 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 22 - Oct 03 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 06 - Oct 17 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 13 - Oct 24 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 20 - Oct 31 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Nov 03 - Nov 14 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Nov 10 - Nov 21 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
- 2025
- Feb 17 - Feb 28 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Mar 17 - Mar 28 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Apr 07 - Apr 18 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Apr 28 - May 09 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- May 05 - May 16 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- May 19 - May 30 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Jun 02 - Jun 13 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 01 - Sep 12 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 15 - Sep 26 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 22 - Oct 03 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 06 - Oct 17 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 13 - Oct 24 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 20 - Oct 31 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Nov 03 - Nov 14 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Nov 10 - Nov 21 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
12 days
11 nights
What's Included
22 meals | 10B | 4L | 8D |
4 expert-led lectures
15 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
10 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Florence, To Siena, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Siena
Meals:
D
Stay:
NH Siena
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 03:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously)
Afternoon:
After checking-in at the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation session. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Breakfasts in our program will be hearty buffets; most lunches and some other meals will be two courses featuring local dishes. These are the names of typical food courses in Italy: l'antipasto, a hot or cold appetizer; il primo piatto, the first course, often soup or pasta; il secondo piatto, the second course or main dish; il contorno piatto, a side dish such as vegetables or salad; and il dolce, dessert. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Siena, Lecture, Free Time
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
NH Siena
Activity Note
Walking up to 2.5 miles, approximately 2 hours; standing up to 1 hour; generally cobblestone and hilly terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will begin our learning adventure in Siena with an expert-led walking field trip through the historical center. Siena is a Gothic Dream and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will enjoy an on-site lecture on Siena's Romanesque-Gothic Architecture. We will visit the gothic Basilica of San Domenico, which preserves a very important relic, the head of Saint Catherine. We will follow the path of the Francigena route, along which we can admire important buildings, such as the headquarters of Monte dei Paschi, the oldest bank in Europe, the Palazzo Tolomei and Palazzo Chigi Saracini seat of the Music Accademy, Accademia Chigiana. We will visit the Cathedral of the Assumption, a jewel of Gothic architecture, but not only, as it contains the famous works of Michelangelo, Donatello and Bernini. Our walk will end in the Piazza del Campo, where twice a year the famous horse race, Palio di Siena, takes place.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will enjoy some free time in Siena. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Lecture, Pienza, Winery, Montalcino
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
NH Siena
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 80 miles throughout the day, approximately 2.5-hour riding time. Walking up to 3 miles, approximately 2 hours; standing up to 1 hour, opportunities to sit, restrooms available; generally flat terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We'll begin with a lecture at the hotel with a local expert focused on Italy's Gems, the Medieval Villages, History, Culture and Traditions. We will board our motorcoach and ride to Pienza. We will embark with a local expert on a walk through the medieval alleys that open on breathtaking view of the Val D'orcia, We will discover magnificent Renaissance buildings: the residences of the Pope Pius II Piccolomini, the Cardinals Borgia, Ammannati and Jouffroy d’Arras. In the heart of the city, we will visit the majestic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, commissioned by Pius II and realized by the architect Bernardo Rossellino form 1459 to 1462. We will ride to a local winery for a Tuscan wine experience.
Lunch:
At the winery. We'll taste a Tuscany wine paired with a selection of typical products of the region.
Afternoon:
We will ride to Montalcino and see the Town Hall, the arcades of the Piazza del Popolo and the Church of Saint Egidio. We’ll return to the hotel.
Dinner:
At the local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Volterra, San Gimignano
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
NH Siena
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 85 miles throughout the day, approximately 2.5 hours riding time Walking up to 2.5 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll embark on a field trip to Volterra, a town of artistic and historic heritage, and a land filled with art and nature. We will begin our learning adventure with a walking field trip with our Group Leader through Volterra We will have the opportunity to meet some locals (an alabaster maker, or a folk musician, or an Etruscan bronze craftsman, a policeman, a theatre actor, a wine producer, a sculptor) and listen to their life experience.
Lunch:
On your own in Volterra.
Afternoon:
We will ride to San Giminano. We will embark with our Group Leader on a walk through the city of 13 towers; once, in the Middle Age there were 72 towers, one for each family. We will visit a famous local artisanal ice cream store. The owner will explain us the difference between ”gelato” (produced with natural ingredients and without additives) and “ice cream” (produced with synthetic flavours). The artisan will focus on the flavours of his exclusive registered trademark production made with local products typical of San Gimignano followed by an ice cream tasting. br> We will then return to the hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Monte San Savino, Di Gargonza Castle, Cortona
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
NH Siena
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach: driving about 102 miles, approximately 3 hours. Walking up to 2 miles; hilly terrain to reach the city center from parking than flat terrain and then downhill.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach and ride to Monte San Savino for a walking field trip with a local expert to explore the medieval village. We will meet the Count Guicciardini himself that will lead us on a visit to Castello di Gargonza.
Lunch:
At the Di Gargonza Castle.
Afternoon:
We will board our motorcoach and ride to Cortona where we will begin our learning adventure with an expert-led through this scenic Tuscan hill town with great art, great atmosphere, and superb views. We will visit the Diocesan Museum, an art museum in Cortona, located on the former site of the local Church of Gesù. It houses works of art by artists such as Luca Signorelli and Sassetta. We’ll return to Siena.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
7
Gubbio, To Spoleto
Location:
Spoleto (PG)
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Dei Duchi
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 150 miles throughout the day, approximately 3 hours riding time. In Gubbio walking up to 2 miles; hilly, several city elevators.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will board our private motorcoach and transfer to Spoleto, where we will check in at our next hotel. We will stop en route at Gubbio. We will enjoy a lecture on ancient crafts held by a local expert at the Palazzo Beni, a museum of arts and crafts. We will meet a local artisan for a stone modeling workshop. The activity consists of shaping a stone tile, a small cube, with hammer and various types of chisels to create a bas-relief.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Gubbio
Afternoon:
We will visit the museum of arts and crafts, at Palazzo Beni where Gubbio`s roots are preserved, through the narration of the most ancient traditions linked to the arts and crafts which, over the centuries, have characterized the city of Gubbio and its territory. We will continue our transfer to Spoleto and check-in to our hotel.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Spoleto
Location:
Spoleto (PG)
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Dei Duchi
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain, some hilly sections.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will walk to the Town Hall where we will be welcomed by a municipal local representative and visit the Palazzo. We will admire some costumes used during the Spoleto Festival. We will continue our visit with the municipal presentative of the Caio Melisso theater.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Spoleto.
Afternoon:
We will continue our learning adventure with an expert-led through Spoleto and visit the Cathedral with frescoes by Filippo LIppi and Pintoricchio. The remainder of the afternoon is free.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Assisi, Free Time
Location:
Spoleto (PG)
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Dei Duchi
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 60 miles throughout the day, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking throughout the day approximately 3 miles. In Assisi, flat terrain, escalators to reach the top; some cobblestone alleys in Assisi.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Our field trip of the day will be to Assisi, home of St. Francis (1181-1226). We will walk with a local expert among the medieval houses and shops, on cobblestone streets and alleys to reach the Basilica of St. Francis (Basilica Papale e Sacro Convento di San Francesco). The Basilica is first of all a holy place as the lower sanctuary contains the tomb and shrine of St. Francis. In the upper church, we can admire magnificent frescos of Giotto and his school, based on stories of St. Francis.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in Assisi.
Afternoon:
We will enjoy some free time in Assisi. We’ll then return to Spoleto.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
Perugia, Free Time
Location:
Spoleto (PG)
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Dei Duchi
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 80 miles throughout the day, approximately 1.5 hour riding time. In Perugia, walking up to 2 miles throughout the day, generally flat terrain with some flights of stairs.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will ride to Perugia, the lively medieval walled hill town with historic buildings, modern shops and a notable artistic center. We will visit with our Group Leader the town and the Moretti Caselli laboratory where they restore the stained-glass windows. We will enjoy some free time.
Lunch:
On your own in Perugia.
Afternoon:
In the early afternoon we will visit the Collegio del Cambio to admire the Perugino' frescoes before returning to the hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
11
Orvieto, To Rome-Fiumicino, Free Time
Location:
Roma Fiumicino
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Hotel Isola Sacra
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 160 miles throughout the day, approximately 3 hours riding time. Walking in Orvieto approximately 2 miles; generally flat terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will board our private motorcoach and begin our transfer to Rome-Fiumicino. En route, we will stop at Orvieto for an expert led field trip of the town included the entrance to the Cathedral. Orvieto sits atop a cliff of tuff (rock formed by the consolidation of volcanic ash) overlooking the Paglia River valley. It was originally an Etruscan settlement from between the 9th and 8th centuries C.E. Its main attraction is the iconic Duomo — Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption — an artistic masterpiece of the late medieval era. This is one of the most famous cathedrals in Italy. In addition to the amazing façade, the St. Brizio Chapel contains frescoes painted by Luca Signorelli that influenced Michelangelo’s rendition of “The Last Judgment” in this Sistine Chapel. You will have time on your own to explore the Underground, a maze of more than a thousand caves, tunnels, and wells dug out of the rock over more than 2,500 years and used for a variety of purposes. There are the remains of oil presses, wine cellars, kilns, cells for pigeons, storage areas, and many wells connected to tanks to supply water.
Lunch:
On your own in Orvieto to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Continuing our transfer, we expect to arrive in Rome-Fiumicino in the late afternoon and check in to our final hotel.
Dinner:
At the hotel. We’ll share some of our favorite experiences from the program with fellow Road Scholars
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
12
Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s "Getting There" information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel depending on departure time. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Please select a day to update the map
Map details are not available for this location.
MEALS
22 Meals
10 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
8 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- May 05, 2025 - May 16, 2025
- Feb 17, 2025 - Feb 28, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Mar 17, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Apr 28, 2025 - May 09, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- May 05, 2025 - May 16, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- May 19, 2025 - May 30, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Jun 02, 2025 - Jun 13, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 03, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 13, 2025 - Oct 24, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Oct 20, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 14, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
- Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 21, 2025 (Siena to Roma Fiumicino)
Participant Reviews
Based on 39 Reviews
Sort By:
This trip was one of the best I've participated in. Caterina, the group leader was excellent. Her knowledge of the area, and personal interaction with the group--outstanding. This was an exceptional group of travelers, also. I attribute much satisfaction to Catrina. I cannot say enough about her leadership.
I had visited Italian cities in the past, but not small villages. This trip exceeded my expectations. Each city brought new experiences.
Road Scholar always provides a little something that I would not have experienced on my own. Some of my favorites: visiting a family owned winery, visiting the ancient ruins of Little Jerusalem in Perugia, and hearing the histories of Medieval Villages. Each day brought new surprises!
Road Scholar is my choice of travel, and I'm not disappointed, though our first hotel stay (Grand Hotel Admiral Palace) was not the quality I expect from RS. The meals, especially breakfast, were subpar. Each morning, arriving at the start time for breakfast, there was not enough food. This occurred daily. Also, there is usually a lecture room, but our group meetings were in the common area.
Thanks to RS personnel and their great planning.
Judy
— Review left October 22, 2024
We thoroughly enjoyed the Hidden Villages of Umbria and Tuscany! Our tour guide Caterina was exceptional and the small group comradery added to the overall experience. Road Scholar found a variety of villages that were each different from the other with varied activities/focus at each village. The provided meals delicious, memorable, and varied. This was our first Road Scholar trip but won't be our last!
— Review left October 19, 2024
Loved the trip. The sites were well planned, guides were experts and got us into areas on our tour group could see. Be prepared for lots of art in medieval castles/churchs, good food and getting a taste of Tuscany and Umbria via wine and food.
Unfortunately members in our group failed to wear masks when symptomatic, despite multiple requests (discussions) from the guide and I eventually got sick too. I’d give the trip 2-3 stars because of non-compliance with masks when people were symptomatic.
— Review left September 28, 2024
This is a great program that explores the beauty and the complex history of medieval villages in Umbria and Tuscany. My first trip to Italy was to Rome, Florence, and Venice. I worried that this program would not hold my attention as much as the first trip but I was so wrong. I loved it. The group was small and full of interesting people equally interested in the history of the region. So much fun!
— Review left September 14, 2024
Great trip and interesting hill towns, and superb local guides. Admiral Palace Hotel refuses to provide A/C, and if its hot - tough. RS, choose another hotel. We paid for a service they refused to provide.
— Review left May 27, 2024
This is my 6th trip with Road Scholar. Each trip gets better!
— Review left May 21, 2024
This was a super enjoyable trip with an absolutely fantastic guide. I would have benefitted from a second history discussion mid way through the trip.
— Review left May 21, 2024
This is a lovely journey to hill towns that are not otherwise easily accessed.
— Review left May 10, 2024
This was a wonderful tour. Catarina our trip leader has a great personality and went out of her way to make us all feel comfortable. The local guides were simply amazing. So filled with knowledge and willing to share their love of Italy and the area. Still trying to process the wealth of art, ancient sites, great food, and more we experienced every day. All that and gelato!! As a solo traveler, felt lucky to have a fun group which made the experience even better than expected. Highly recommended!
— Review left May 1, 2024
An excellent program with highly qualified guides.
— Review left April 28, 2024
Outstanding experience of the beauty of Tuscany and immersion in its history, art and culture. Bus rides are necessary for covering this much territory, but the beautiful landscapes made them a pleasurable part of the Tour
— Review left March 27, 2024
This program was wonderful and educational. Food and wine was excellent. Be aware that in Tuscany and Umbria, many shops and restaurants are closed from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. i highly recommend this tour.
— Review left March 23, 2024
We had a fabulous & non-stop trip! Our guide Erika was sweet and knowledgeable, kept us organized and moving, and just all around very talented as a guide. I believe we had a variation of this trip that RS was trying out, and it was very busy. However we loved it and toured so many towns that were not as busy as you'd expect for a September visit.
— Review left February 11, 2024
Tuscany and Umbria are green even in winter, and it was a treat to see these cities when there are virtually no other tourists--and no other tour groups at all. My small group was congenial and excellent company, our tour leader a delight. The guides were mostly excellent. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the accommodations and food.
— Review left January 28, 2024
Our tour of the medieval villages of Tuscany and Umbria was outstanding. It gave us a new appreciation for the culture, history, and people of Italy.
— Review left January 23, 2024
Caterina was very sweet but not as experienced as other guides I have had. This tour was a little light on the education. Could have added an Etruscan Museum to the itinerary and some lectures before dinner. Our free time was during the lunch hour when everything was closed. It would be better to switch free time to the morning and tour in the afternoon. The food and restaurants were good except for Orvieto. The winery and cheese farm were some highlights of the tour.
My travel (done by Road Scholar) was a nightmare. I will have to think about using you in the future. I had to pay $50 extra for a seat I was already supposed to have on the way home. On the way to Italy, I had no seats and was seated in the middle with absolutely no room for anything. My travel companion was not even in the same section of the plane as I was.
— Review left January 4, 2024
Walking to and around several of the medieval villages of Tuscany and Umbria regions of Italy is a great way to learn how about the history and the culture of these towns and regions. Ten days of exploring churches, museums and local food/markets was a good immersion experience. Our guide, Catarina, did a remarkable job of keeping us on time and informed about program activities and local issues/challenges.
— Review left November 19, 2023
My first trip with RS, I was afraid I "might not keep up", no problem! The pace was great, plenty of free time, our tour director was great and I really enjoyed it. Prepare- no coffee in the rooms in most hotels and some of the food and wine quantities were sub par but I would go again.
— Review left November 1, 2023
If you want a little magic in your life, subscribe to the Tuscany and Umbria Road Scholar tour! I hated to come home...it was simply enchanting.
— Review left October 23, 2023
The selected location were scenic and beautiful. The history was amazing. I highly recommend.
— Review left October 18, 2023
Five stars, wonderful program. We got a great understanding of the selected hilltop towns, some small (Gubbio) some larger (Siena, Perugia). We were based in two towns and enjoyed not having to pack up every couple of days. We had to absorb a lot from the local guides who led us on Field Trips as we walked through cobblestoned narrow streets, and climbed hilly steps. Nice balance of programmed time, and time on our own; ditto for meals. It is good to be prepared for the variety of Renaissance artists that we come across, and to understand the history so as not to be overwhelmed. There were no hands-on activities, and this was fine by us. We would have welcomed more lectures as we’ve experienced on other Road Scholar programs. The crowds of tourists were not excessive as might be the case in Rome or Venice. Highly recommended.
— Review left October 15, 2023
Wonderful trip for anyone who enjoys history and has an appreciation of gorgeous frescoes. Tuscany is exactly like the pictures. Wonderful Tuscan food and wine also! You'll find a terrific person leading the tour, Erika, and gobsmacking guides on each field trip. Bring shoes with lots of cushioning!
— Review left September 22, 2023
I had a great experience on this trip. Erika, our leader, is fantastic. She’s kind, knowledgeable, and made us feel welcome. She’s also very funny. Erika went out of her way for us.
The trip was well planned. For me, the lectures with Mario on the art were informative but a little too detailed. For others, it was way too much. He has a passion for the art but also a religious view that came through loud and clear. We got the anti abortion message-for American travelers, this is too much.
I really enjoyed the trips to the olive farm and the winery. The day in Orvieto was fascinating as there was a festival. The guide that day, Roma, did ok given the circumstances.
Overall, I would recommend this trip highly. I understand that the itinerary is changing and perhaps also that the guide will be Mario. In that case, it would be most enjoyable for those who want detailed art history and don’t mind a Catholic perspective.
— Review left June 25, 2023
The Medieval towns of Tuscany and Umbria is a fantastic trip filled with history, art, culinary adventure and local connections. If you want an intimate introduction to Bella Italia, this is the trip for you...amazing art without the lines of larger cities, delicious food, and close personal connections with both presenters and participants.
— Review left June 12, 2023
This is a wonderful program that takes you slightly off the beaten track in Tuscany and Umbria and the choice of medieval villages was excellent. Each one was unique with its own distinctive personality and sites. There is a great balance between planned activities and meals vs solo options and free time. The group leader and presenters were top notch and really enhanced the entire experience. I have traveled in Tuscany before, but this program introduced me to new places and experiences. I particularly enjoyed the visit and lunch at the olive mill.
— Review left April 29, 2023
This program provides a wonderful opportunity to walk the streets of Medieval towns and see and appreciate the appearance of early humanistic Renaissance artworks in the settings for which they were created.
— Review left March 19, 2023
My trip was amazing, well organized, exceptional staff and I made lifelong friends.
— Review left November 7, 2022
The Hidden Villages of Tuscany and Umbria was outstanding. The tour guide, Simone Spinazze, was terrific -- highly knowledgeable, well-organized, attentive to the needs of the group. His experience as an actor was a real plus, making him so entertaining. The villages featured on the tour were so beautiful -- and not overwhelmed by tourists in a year when most major European cities are so crowded it is difficult to appreciate them. This tour gets a "10"!
— Review left September 29, 2022
This is a gem of a tour, introducing us to the "hidden" medieval towns of Tuscany & Umbria. It was a great introduction to Italy, and such an interesting and well-run tour that we will come back to Road Scholar for other tours.
— Review left September 27, 2022
The Hill Towns of Tuscany and Umbria is a wonderful opportunity to explore the history, grandeur, people and diversity of one of the most interesting areas in Italy and and in the World. Highly recommended!
— Review left May 14, 2022
All of us in our varied group commented that this program exceeded our expectations. The program highlights an amazing part of Italy-uncrowded towns, beautiful art and architecture, and the ability to be immersed in Italian life. On a scale of one to ten, it is an eleven.
— Review left October 31, 2021
The villages we stayed in were small and charming. Hotel stays in Anghieri and Trevi were very pleasant. The villages and cities we visited were beautiful and we had the opportunity to experience some of the greatest early renaissance art by Piero della Francesco, Fra Angelico, Perugino, Lorenzetti and others. The tours of winery and olive grove were informative but took too much time, especially of the olive grove. Giulia was a very pleasant tour leader but she provided very little educational information along the way. Two of our three city guides were outstanding, especially the art historian, the third too subjective in her descriptions. Dinners were mostly of unremarkable quality but improved in the Umbria portion of our stay.
— Review left October 16, 2021
Time to enjoy art, food, wine, and history in some of Italy's most charming and uncrowded hill towns.
— Review left October 3, 2021
If you appreciate the charm and the ambiance of small towns and villages, this is the ideal program for you!
— Review left September 17, 2019
My first Road Scholar trip and it exceeded expectations!
— Review left May 29, 2019
Fabulous trip in every way. If you love great scenery, art, medieval architecture, Italian food and want stay clear of the crowds this is a wonderful trip.
— Review left May 29, 2019
Thank you, Road Scholar, for making my first overseas experience so wonderful. I was well taken care of on every level and had time to relax and enjoy. Exactly what I was hoping for. I will most definitely be traveling with you again!
— Review left May 27, 2019
"Five stars". This was an exceptional trip, and was expertly organized. We visited many cathedrals, walked on village cobble streets and had three lunches at smaller spots, including an Olive Mill (where the owner shared with us a wonderful overview of the production of olive oil) and two country homes. The accommodations were simple and clean, some with beautiful views and walking access. My only regret is that I did not complete more research prior to the trip, so that I could have more of a baseline understanding of all that the guides shared with us. However, by the last day, it all began to make sense. Our trip leader, Simona, was magnificent, and set the bar very high. She has deep knowledge and has worked with "turistas" from different cultural backgrounds, including Japan, United States and Canada. She is warm, well-organized, and has a lively sense of humor. We had a lovely diverse group, (cultural experience and religious background) and we felt absolutely comfortable and safe during our travels, thanks to Simona's presence and skill. She has both impressive formal background education as well as a kind of life wisdom that cannot be taught, interpersonal skills, cross-cultural sensitivity and a commitment to inclusion. The trip itself is structured so that there is free time, and there are different kinds of activities. There was an excellent balance to it all, again, not an easy feat to accomplish. As in many places in the world, the weather was unpredictable. We prepared more for warmer weather, but it was rainy and chilly at times, so "expect the unexpected".
— Review left May 27, 2019
This was the third region of Northern Italy that my wife and I have explored with Road Scholar and in many ways it was the most satisfying. You are taking a deep dive into Church history of the medieval and Renaissance period, but the guides were, without exception, intelligent and engaging. The program smartly avoids the crowds that make travel so hard at Italy's "greatest hits" of this historical period. Indeed, you will be virtually alone with some well-known masterpieces (Piero della Francesca frescoes for example) and discover wonders that are not yet famous (Roman mosaics in the new museum at Spello, for example). As is the RS custom, you will learn much about fortifications and foodies in the countryside, a nice tradition. The hotels were fine three-star establishments (another RS tradition) and while these may be below some people's notion of luxury, they were clean, cute, and accommodating. Our group bonded so well at meals, it is hard to remember just how good the food was in this pleasant company. You will have two dinners and several lunches on your own, if you are looking for the best restaurants in town (but all will be focused on traditional food of the region.) Simona, our group leader, was always patient and in good spirits; she held our diverse group of 16 in the palm of her hand. Is there anything to worry about? As another reviewer has said, but we were too dim to realize, hill towns in May are going to be colder than the valley below. Dress for Seattle more than for Sicily.
— Review left May 12, 2019