Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Asciano, Toscana and Firenze, Toscana
Overview
If you're looking for a perfect road trip in Tuscany, look no further than the route from Asciano to Firenze. The journey is approximately 94 kilometers long, taking about 1 hour and 20 minutes without traffic. Along the way, travellers can marvel at the picturesque landscapes and abundant cultural landmarks. Moreover, these two towns serve as the starting point of the iconic Val d'Orcia experience and end with one of the most famous and vibrant cities of Italy.
A halfway point is Castiglion Fibocchi, AR, a charming hamlet nestled among wooded hills that lead to the plains of Arezzo. This town offers plenty of tastings for foodies and is famous for its typical regional cuisine with prized wines, cured meats, oil, and other delicacies.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Visit the Historic Centre of Asciano
The historic centre of Asciano offers a quaint atmosphere with its well-preserved medieval buildings, narrow alleys, and piazzas. It is home to the Abbazia di Monte Oliveto, a massive abbey complex dating to the 14th century. This monastery's main attraction is the frescoes of the cloister painted by the famous Sodoma in the 16th century.
Fun Fact: Asciano is famous for its prized oil production and traditional dishes with Pici, handmade pasta, and Cinta Senese, a rare breed of pork.
2. Explore the Countryside from Montalcino
Montalcino is a hilltop town that is perched atop a mountain in the Val d'Orcia. It is known for its winding streets and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. This spot is perfect for wine aficionados, as Montalcino is famous for its red wines, including the famed Brunello di Montalcino.
Fun Fact: Montalcino features several natural thermal baths such as Bagno Vignoni, where locals have been bathing for centuries.
3. Marvel at the Renaissance Art in Pienza
Pienza is a small town that was commissioned by Pope Pius II in the 15th century as an urban masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Visitors can enjoy the views of Piazza Pio II, where you can admire the Palazzo Piccolomini and the Cathedral. Pienza is also well-known for its Pecorino cheese.
Fun Fact: Pienza has been named the "ideal city" because of its beautiful and harmonious ensemble of buildings.
4. Soak in the Atmosphere of San Gimignano
San Gimignano is a hilltop town surrounded by ancient walls and protected by UNESCO. It boasts 14 remaining medieval towers, authentic narrow streets, and the stunning Piazza del Duomo, which is home to the Collegiata. The town is famed for its Vernaccia di San Gimignano, white wine, and saffron.
Fun Fact: San Gimignano has been declared by UNESCO as one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Italy and also played as a significant movie background in the "Tea with Mussolini" film.
5. Discover the Secrets of Florence
Florence is the capital city of Tuscany, famed for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and delicious cuisine. As one of the world's cultural capitals, visitors to the city can explore the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Medici Chapels, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, where the famed Brunelleschi's Dome is located.
Fun Fact: Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, where artists like Da Vinci, Michelangelo and Botticelli started their careers.
Conclusion
In summary, Tuscany is an idyllic region of Italy where travellers can soak in the country's history, art, and culture. The trip from Asciano to Florence is a perfect itinerary filled with iconic landmarks, stunning vistas, and traditional cuisine. The beautiful towns of Pienza, San Gimignano, and Montalcino are great stopping points to appreciate the region's rustic charm. Finally, the cultural and artistic atmosphere of Florence will give visitors and experience to appreciate for a lifetime.