A Slower Way Through Tuscany
A thoughtfully paced journey through two distinct landscapes: the rolling countryside of Val d’Orcia and the Mediterranean coast of Monte Argentario.
Itinerary One: Val d’Orcia
Day 1 — Arrival in Tuscany
Arrive in Florence and continue south into the Val d’Orcia. Settle into a peaceful countryside stay and enjoy a relaxed Tuscan dinner with no further plans.
Day 2 — Pienza
After a leisurely breakfast, explore Pienza’s charming streets, artisan shops, and scenic viewpoints. Stop for gelato and enjoy lunch overlooking the countryside before returning for a quiet afternoon.
Day 3 — A Taste of Tuscany
Spend the morning learning to prepare fresh pasta during a hands-on cooking class. Enjoy the meal together, then return to your accommodation for time by the pool, in the garden, or at the spa.
Day 4 — A Day Left Open
Consider visiting Montepulciano or Bagno Vignoni, or simply remain close to home and enjoy the slower pace. Leave the day open to follow the mood of the moment.
Day 5 — Wine Country
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at one of the area’s celebrated vineyards. One thoughtfully chosen wine experience is often more memorable than a busy schedule of stops.
Day 6 — One More Slow Day
Return to a favorite village, revisit a scenic viewpoint, or spend the day enjoying the property. There is no need to fill every hour.
Day 7 — Return to Florence
Enjoy a final breakfast in the countryside, then travel back to Florence at an unhurried pace. Allow time for a final lunch or stroll before departure.
Enjoy…
Quiet mornings among rolling hills
Medieval villages and artisan shops
Fresh pasta and local cooking traditions
Scenic drives through the countryside
Long lunches overlooking the landscape
Thermal waters and restorative afternoons
Unhurried time together
CONSIDERED’S RECOMMENDATION
Build in at least one completely unstructured day. The Val d’Orcia is best experienced slowly, with room for an unexpected village, a memorable meal, or a beautiful view discovered along the way.
Family Friendly Mediterranean
Consider a quieter apartment-style stay with additional space and a more residential feel. A kitchenette and flexible living areas can be especially convenient for families seeking an easy, comfortable rhythm by the sea.
Itinerary Two: Monte Argentario
Day 1 — Toward the Mediterranean
Arrive in Florence and travel through southern Tuscany toward Monte Argentario. Settle into your seaside accommodation, then take an introductory walk along the harbor before dinner.
Day 2 — Porto Ercole
Spend the morning exploring the waterfront and surrounding streets of Porto Ercole. Follow the walk with a long seafood lunch overlooking the marina.
Day 3 — Another Day Without Plans
Enjoy the spa, read beside the pool, or take a relaxed drive to Porto Santo Stefano. Some of the most restorative travel days are the ones left open.
Day 4 — The Coast at Your Own Pace
Visit Porto Santo Stefano, explore the Orbetello Lagoon, or spend another quiet afternoon by the sea. Choose one experience and allow plenty of time to enjoy it.
Day 5 — One Last Tuscan Day
Savor a final breakfast overlooking the Mediterranean, then spend the day revisiting a favorite place or simply enjoying the coast. A sunset aperitivo makes a fitting final evening.
Day 6 — Return to Florence
Travel back to Florence after breakfast, allowing time to enjoy the changing landscape and stop for one final Tuscan meal along the way.
Enjoy…
Morning walks along the harbor
Fresh seafood beside the water
Exploring Porto Ercole and Porto Santo Stefano
Scenic drives around Monte Argentario
Time among the wetlands of the Orbetello Lagoon
Sunset aperitivo overlooking the Mediterranean
Small boutiques, cafés, and coastal villages
Quiet afternoons by the pool or at the spa
Beach walks along the shoreline
CONSIDERED’S RECOMMENDATION
Arrive in Porto Ercole about an hour before sunset. After settling in, head toward the harbor for a first aperitivo. It is an easy, beautiful introduction to the coastal character of southern Tuscany.