Exploring the Heart of Italy: Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio

Italy is a country that never ceases to amaze, and the central regions of Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio offer a perfect blend of history, breathtaking landscapes, and delicious food. Our journey through this beautiful part of the country was not just about revisiting old favorites but also about discovering new gems.

Tuscany: A Return to Beauty

We have always loved Tuscany, and this time, we were excited to share it with our friends. We decided to stay near Lucca for a few days, a city known for its well-preserved Renaissance walls and charming streets.

Pisa: A Tourist Favorite with Timeless Appeal

Although Pisa is undeniably touristy, I still find the Leaning Tower impressive every time I visit. This time, we climbed the bell tower, which was previously closed for structural reinforcement. It was a steep climb—especially for our tall friends—but they managed!

Lucca by Night

We explored Lucca in the evening, and I was reminded of how magical the city looks under its warm lights. Lucca is encircled by historic walls, so we parked outside the restricted ZTL zone and walked in through a tunnel. The city’s atmosphere at night is simply spectacular.

Chianti: The Road to Panzano

From Lucca, we took the scenic Chiantigiana (SR 222) road to Panzano in Chianti, renowned for its rolling vineyards and picturesque landscapes. Along the way, we stopped for lunch at Ribalta Ristorante & Pizzeria, a charming eatery in the middle of nowhere. The food was excellent, and as a bonus, we enjoyed watching the horses nearby.

In Panzano, we met another couple and had a memorable meal at Antica Macelleria Cecchini, where the famous butcher Dario Cecchini serves an all-meat feast for a set price. It was a unique dining experience, full of rich flavors and lively energy.

Discovering Pienza and Montepulciano

After our friends returned to Venice for their flight home, we continued our journey with a quick stop in Montalcino, a region we fell in love with during our 2013 visit. This time, we discovered Pienza, a charming town known for its hand-cut prosciutto, goat cheese, and aglione della Valdichiana, a sweet and mild variety of garlic. We indulged in the local specialty, pici all'aglione, a thick pasta with a garlicky tomato sauce—absolutely delicious!

That night, we stayed near Montepulciano, another enchanting hilltop town. With its steep streets and incredible views, it’s well worth the uphill walk.

Umbria: The Hidden Gem of Italy

Driving through Umbria, we couldn't resist stopping in Orvieto, a city that captured our hearts on a previous trip. Just an hour from Montepulciano, it was a convenient and rewarding detour.

Orvieto: A City Beneath a City

We parked at the lower level and walked up the inclined streets to explore Orvieto. One of our highlights was St. Patrick’s Well, a remarkable 53-meter-deep structure designed with a double helix staircase so that donkeys fetching water would never cross paths.

On the opposite end of town, we visited the Orvieto Underground, a fascinating labyrinth of caves and tunnels where pigeons once nested centuries ago. The underground tour gave us a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich history.

Lazio: Rome, Our Eternal Base

Our journey ended in Rome, a city that has always been our base camp in Italy. There’s something special about returning to the Eternal City, where history, culture, and vibrant energy come together.

Final Thoughts

Our road trip through Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio was a perfect blend of revisiting old favorites and making new discoveries. From the glowing lights of Lucca to the rolling vineyards of Chianti, the underground secrets of Orvieto, and the timeless beauty of Rome, this journey reaffirmed why we love Central Italy so much.

If you’re planning a trip, take your time to explore beyond the major cities—you might just fall in love with the hidden gems along the way.