Secret Tuscany
Venture beyond the familiar paths of Tuscany on an exclusive private day trip from Rome, uncovering the ancient Etruscan heritage of Arezzo and the timeless hilltop romance of Cortona.
The Tour
Leave the capital behind for a scenic journey into eastern Tuscany, exploring a captivating side of the region steeped in deep antiquity, cinematic charm, and authentic local life. Your private English-speaking driver greets you directly at your hotel lobby in Rome in a luxury vehicle, escorting you through rolling pastoral valleys toward the historic hill city of Arezzo, once one of the wealthiest and most influential capitals of the ancient Etruscan Dodecapolis.
Your morning begins among the timeless stone streets of Arezzo. As you wind through picturesque medieval alleys and quiet aristocratic quarters, you will encounter the city's monumental Gothic Cathedral presiding serenely from the hilltop. Stroll down to the iconic Piazza Grande, famous for its dramatic sloping stone pavement, historic merchant loggias, and noble tower-houses. Movie lovers will immediately recognize this breathtaking square as the enchanting backdrop to Roberto Benigni’s Oscar-winning masterpiece, La Vita è Bella (Life is Beautiful).
Continuing through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, your journey ascends to the ancient walled town of Cortona, perched dramatically high above the Val di Chiana. Celebrated worldwide through the pages and screen of Under the Tuscan Sun, Cortona is one of the oldest settlements in central Italy, radiating warmth and authentic rural elegance. Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring its lively central squares, including Piazza della Repubblica with its medieval town hall steps, visiting historic sanctuaries, and browsing artisan ceramics and leather boutiques. Here, you will have ample time to sit down for a relaxed lunch of regional pasta and rustic delicacies. If you wish to enrich your journey with a visit to a local vineyard, our team can gladly arrange a personalized cellar tour and guided wine tasting upon request at the time of booking (winery tasting fees paid separately). After a golden day steeped in art, cinema, and rural charm, sit back and enjoy a smooth, restful drive back to your hotel in Rome.
Your morning begins among the timeless stone streets of Arezzo. As you wind through picturesque medieval alleys and quiet aristocratic quarters, you will encounter the city's monumental Gothic Cathedral presiding serenely from the hilltop. Stroll down to the iconic Piazza Grande, famous for its dramatic sloping stone pavement, historic merchant loggias, and noble tower-houses. Movie lovers will immediately recognize this breathtaking square as the enchanting backdrop to Roberto Benigni’s Oscar-winning masterpiece, La Vita è Bella (Life is Beautiful).
Continuing through the picturesque Tuscan countryside, your journey ascends to the ancient walled town of Cortona, perched dramatically high above the Val di Chiana. Celebrated worldwide through the pages and screen of Under the Tuscan Sun, Cortona is one of the oldest settlements in central Italy, radiating warmth and authentic rural elegance. Spend a leisurely afternoon exploring its lively central squares, including Piazza della Repubblica with its medieval town hall steps, visiting historic sanctuaries, and browsing artisan ceramics and leather boutiques. Here, you will have ample time to sit down for a relaxed lunch of regional pasta and rustic delicacies. If you wish to enrich your journey with a visit to a local vineyard, our team can gladly arrange a personalized cellar tour and guided wine tasting upon request at the time of booking (winery tasting fees paid separately). After a golden day steeped in art, cinema, and rural charm, sit back and enjoy a smooth, restful drive back to your hotel in Rome.
Duration
12 hours
Flexibility
Itinerary and pace managed directly with your private driver
Services include pickup from and drop-off back at either your hotel or at your cruise ship in one of our luxury vehicles by an English-speaking driver.
Lunch, gratuities, and any entrance fees to attractions are not included. Also please note that we may change the order of the itinerary at our discretion.
Multiple booking discounts are available when you book more than one tour or excursion with us. Please note that these discounts do not apply to airport or port transfers.
This tour is suitable for families with children, with a comfortable pace and private service that makes the day easier to enjoy together.
