Cortona and Arezzo Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Rome

Discover the Charm of Tuscany in a Full-Day Small-Group Tour from Rome

This full-day tour offers an opportunity to visit Cortona and Arezzo, two iconic hilltop towns in Tuscany, with hotel pickup in Rome and a limit of 15 participants for a more personalized experience. At $442.15 per person, it balances convenience, cultural exploration, and scenic beauty, making it suitable for those looking to escape the city for a day of history, art, and cinematic nostalgia.

The tour is designed for travelers who appreciate guided visits to significant landmarks and want to see famous movie filming locations such as Bramasole from Under the Tuscan Sun. However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention inconsistencies with expectations around guiding services, so a degree of independence in exploring also plays a role.

Key Points

• Full-day trip covering Cortona and Arezzo with hotel pickup in Rome
• Limited to 15 participants for a more intimate experience
• Visit film locations from Under the Tuscan Sun and Life is Beautiful
• Guided tours include artworks by Piero della Francesca and historic architecture
• Tour price is $442.15 per person, with free cancellation available
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but physical comfort and walking ability are recommended

Starting the Day with Hotel Pickup in Rome

The tour begins early, at 7:30 am, with hotel pickup in central Rome, provided if your accommodation is within the city’s Aurelian Walls. This setup helps avoid the hassle of arranging transportation, allowing you to relax while the guide takes care of the logistics.

Once everyone is onboard, the journey to Tuscany covers 127 miles (204 km), giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and prepare for a full day of exploration. The small group size, limited to 15 participants, emphasizes a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention from the driver-guide.

Arezzo’s Historic Plaza and Artistic Treasures

The first stop is Piazza Grande, Arezzo’s expansive main square. Built on a downhill slope, its architecture spans different periods, creating a striking visual setting. The marketplace here has been active since medieval times, and during the Renaissance, it transformed into the city’s civic hub.

While in Arezzo, visitors can admire the Church of San Francesco, renowned for its frescoes of the ‘Legends of the True Cross’ by Piero della Francesca. The Arezzo Cathedral also houses a notable Piero della Francesca work, ‘Mary Magdalene’, and features stained glass windows that add to its beauty.

The expansive historic center was heavily bombed during WWII but still preserves numerous architectural gems. The antique market held on the first weekend of each month at Piazza Grande is a highlight, showcasing Italy’s vibrant craftsmanship scene.

Visiting the Iconic Church of San Francesco in Arezzo

The Church of San Francesco is an important medieval landmark. Its fresco cycle, painted by Piero della Francesca, vividly illustrates ‘Legends of the True Cross’, offering a glimpse into medieval religious art. Although viewing the frescoes is included in the guided tour, admission costs are not included.

This church’s historical significance and stunning artwork make it a must-see stop, even for those who appreciate art from distant eras. The guide provides context to deepen the experience, although some reviews hint at communication issues, so attention to detail here may vary.

The Cinematic Magic of Bramasole in Cortona

From Arezzo, the tour continues to Cortona, perched high on a hill with sweeping views of the Tuscan countryside. Bramasole, the villa made famous by Frances Mayes’ memoir Under the Tuscan Sun, is a major highlight.

The villa, built in 1504, served as the film location for the 2003 adaptation. Visitors see exteriors of the villa, which exemplify classic Tuscan architecture. Though not a formal stop for interior visits, plenty of time is spent exploring the surrounding area and viewing the villa from afar.

For many, Bramasole embodies the romantic allure of Tuscany and is a key reason for choosing this tour. The guide leads you to the most photogenic spots and shares stories behind the film scenes and the villa’s history.

Exploring Eremo Le Celle: St. Francis’ Hermitage

The Eremo Le Celle, located five kilometers from Cortona, is a serene Franciscan hermitage established between 1211 and 1221. It’s historically significant as a place where St. Francis of Assisi himself stayed briefly.

The site offers a tranquil setting with simple stone buildings and views of Mount Sant’Egidio. Visitors can appreciate the medieval architecture and reflect on the spiritual history. The peaceful environment contrasts with busier tourist spots, providing a quiet moment during the day’s itinerary.

Cortona’s Piazza Della Repubblica and Local Charm

The Piazza Della Repubblica is the center of Cortona’s social life and has roots dating back to Roman times. Dominated by the Palazzo del Capitano, built in the 1200s, the piazza features a bell tower added in the 15th century.

Here, visitors can soak in local architecture, observe daily life, and enjoy views of ancient streets. This stop also allows for free time to browse shops, sip coffee, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this historic town.

The Basilica di Santa Margherita in Cortona

Perched on a hill just outside Cortona’s main gates, the Basilica di Santa Margherita is a Neo-Gothic church dedicated to the town’s native saint. Its elegant exterior and interior artworks make it a meaningful stop.

The basilica’s location offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and it provides insight into local religious traditions. Visiting this church adds a spiritual dimension to the day’s cultural discoveries.

Return Journey and Hotel Drop-Off in Rome

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour concludes with the return trip to Rome. The drop-off is at the original starting point in central Rome, ensuring convenience for continuing your stay in Italy.

The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s experiences, having covered over 200 km through Tuscany’s scenic roads. The small group size ensures a comfortable journey, with the driver-guide ready to answer questions or share additional insights.

Weighing the Strengths and Limitations of This Tour

The primary strength of this tour is the combination of guided visits and scenic drives through Tuscany’s iconic towns. The limited group size enhances the experience, offering a more intimate exploration of locations like Bramasole and Piazza Grande.

Guides are generally praised for their professionalism and knowledge, especially in Arezzo, but some reviews mention that guiding services may sometimes fall short, with drivers not always providing detailed commentary. It’s important to have a degree of independence in exploring some stops, with the guide leading you through key highlights.

The itinerary offers a good balance of art, history, and film locations, making it appealing for fans of cinema and art lovers alike. However, admission costs for sites like the Church of San Francesco are not included, so budget accordingly.

The value is notable given the hotel pickup, guided visits, and transportation included, especially for those keen to see multiple towns in one day. Still, travelers should be prepared for a busy schedule and moderate walking.

Summary of Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This full-day trip suits history buffs, art enthusiasts, and film fans interested in scenic Tuscan towns. It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours but should be considered carefully by anyone needing more personalized guidance or interior site visits. The scenic views, historic architecture, and cinematic references make this tour a memorable way to experience Tuscany beyond the usual day trips.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup available within Rome for this tour?
Yes, hotel pickup is included if your accommodation is within the Aurelian Walls in Rome, making the start of the day smooth and convenient.

How long is the drive from Rome to Tuscany?
The trip covers approximately 127 miles (204 km), allowing plenty of time for the guide to provide commentary during the journey.

Are tickets to sites like the San Francesco Church included?
No, admission tickets for places such as the Church of San Francesco are not included, so plan to pay on-site if you wish to enter.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect to see Piazza Grande in Arezzo, frescoes by Piero della Francesca, Bramasole villa, and Piazza Della Repubblica in Cortona, along with film locations from Under the Tuscan Sun.

Are there any negative aspects to be aware of?
Some reviews mention discrepancies in guiding quality and missing out on certain stops like Bramasole despite requests. The tour can also be busy, with a moderate walking pace required.

This Cortona and Arezzo full-day tour from Rome offers a compelling mix of art, history, and cinematic scenery, making it a worthwhile option for those seeking an immersive Tuscan experience with the convenience of guided transport.