Soulful Italy: Umbria, The Marches, and Abruzzo Tour

Medieval towns dot the landscape of Umbria and seem to feel as if they have sprouted up from the fertile ground of the region. You will venture out this morning to explore the expansive countryside. First, you will stop in Montepulciano, which is known for its namesake grape and wine. Afterward, you will explore the winding streets before visiting a winery. After lunch, you will continue to Castiglion del Lago, which is situated on Lake Trasimeno. Here, you will visit the Municipal Palace and the dramatic Fortress of the Lion before continuing to Borgo Solomeo, the muse of fashion pioneer, Brunello Cucinelli.

Because of their varied histories and topographies, each Italian region's food is intrinsically connected to the land. Today, you will take part in a cooking class and learn about what makes Tuscan cuisine so special. Tuscan food is characterized by its hearty, fresh flavors, its simplicity, and its connection to the land. Your course will be led by a local professional, who will be well-versed in the local culinary staples. After you finish cooking, you will indulge in the fruits of your labor, followed by an afternoon at leisure.

This morning, you will bid farewell to Umbria and transfer to Ascoli Piceno in the neighboring region of Marche. While not as well-known as other adjacent regions, Marche is home to hidden gems like Ascoli Piceno. Upon your arrival, you will check in to your palace hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You may wish to wander the labyrinthine streets of Ascoli Piceno before your introductory tour tomorrow.

After breakfast, you will venture out with your guide for a walking tour of Ascoli Piceno. You will begin with a visit to Palazzo dell’Arregno before continuing on to Palazzo Panichi and the Cathedral of St. Emidio. The cathedral is adorned with intricate frescos that showcase Catholic iconography in a unique and stunning way. Afterward, you will continue to the Piazza del Popolo to admire the small but dramatic square. Here, you can also enjoy a coffee at the renowned Caffe Meletti, where coffee and snacks are served with a nostalgic ambiance. The afternoon will be free to enjoy at your leisure.

This morning, you will depart for a day-trip to Loreto, home of the Basilica della Santa Casa, which is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics around the world. Various parts of the basilica were constructed throughout the centuries and features the Holy House. In the afternoon, you will visit the underground Caves of Camerano, a system of tunnels beneath the city that features niches and bas-reliefs with religious ornaments and symbols. You will return to Ascoli Piceno in the afternoon to have the remainder of the day at your own pace.

After meeting your guide, you will depart for Abruzzo and the Gran Sasso National Park, where the region’s natural beauty is on full display. You will begin with a visit to Santo Stefano di Sessanio, a medieval town that overlooks the mountains, evoking the feeling of stepping back in time. You will then continue to Calascio and the town's 11th-century castle that appears to sprout out of the mountains. Finally, you can enjoy this incredible landscape before returning to Ascoli Piceno in the evening.

The morning will feel you with a sense of satisfaction and reluctance. You will be more than satisfied to have spent the past seven days exploring the remote side of Italy but reluctant to leave this boot of Mediterranean paradise. After a satisfying Italian breakfast and espresso, you will be transferred to the airport for your international departure.