Overview
This journey moves through central Italy along the quieter roads between Tuscany and northern Lazio, following traces of the medieval pilgrim route, the Via Francigena, medieval towns, regional tables, and stories often missed at first glance. Hosted by food and travel writer David Farley, the week begins in Siena and the Tuscan countryside before continuing south through Chianti, Viterbo, Calcata, and Rome.
From Dario Cecchini’s legendary butcher shop in Panzano to Trappist nuns in Vitorchiano, regional cooking in northern Lazio, and the layered streets of Rome, the itinerary balances food, history, and relaxed exploration through David’s sharp eye for place and story.
What to expect: Chianti traditions, regional cooking, monastic wine, bohemian villages, and Roman art.
Dates
April 12-18, 2027
Price
From €5,900
Highlights
- Explore Siena’s contrade with David, tracing Tuscany’s civic traditions and local stories.
- Travel through Chianti with a stop in Panzano for lunch at Dario Cecchini’s legendary butcher shop.
- Visit the Trappist nuns in Vitorchiano, producing natural fermented grape juice.
- Take part in a cooking class and lunch at Trattoria del Cimino, one of Premiate Trattorie Italiane.
- Discover Calcata’s bohemian spirit through stone alleys, workshops, and dramatic views.
- End in Rome with Caravaggio, layered history, and a convivial farewell dinner.
Your Host
David Farley
Food & Travel Writer
Award-winning writer David Farley spent two years living in central Italy and has traveled extensively throughout Tuscany and Lazio, writing about food, travel, and history for publications including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Condé Nast Traveler, BBC, Food & Wine, and National Geographic.
His work has been anthologized in The Best American Travel Writing, and his book An Irreverent Curiosity: In Search of the Church’s Strangest Relic in Italy’s Oddest Town was adapted into a National Geographic Channel documentary.
On this journey, David brings his sharp eye for stories, places, and the layered histories that make central Italy so compelling, guiding guests through the quieter towns, tables, and cultural details between Siena, Viterbo, and Rome.
Itinerary
In exceptional cases, the itinerary may slightly change.
← Scroll the Days across to see more Itinerary →
Arrival in Siena
Monday, April 12
- Arrive independently in Siena and settle into your accommodation in the historic center or nearby countryside.
- Meet David Farley for an introduction to the region through Siena’s medieval streets, historic center, and contrade.
- Gather for a welcome dinner featuring traditional Tuscan cuisine and local wines.
Chianti & Tuscan Villages
Tuesday, April 13
- Depart Siena for a day exploring the landscapes and hill towns of Chianti.
- Walk through villages such as Castellina in Chianti and Radda, tracing local history and daily life.
- Continue to Panzano for lunch at Dario Cecchini’s renowned butcher shop and restaurant, an institution rooted in conviviality.
- Return to Siena in the late afternoon, with the evening at leisure.
Tuscany Beyond the Postcard
Wednesday, April 14
- Begin at Siena’s weekly market, experiencing the city’s local rhythm before free time to explore at your own pace.
- Enjoy lunch in a traditional trattoria in Colle Val d’Elsa, one of Tuscany’s lesser-known gems.
- Continue to San Gimignano for a guided exploration of its medieval streets.
- Spend a final evening in Tuscany over dinner in Siena’s historic center.
Trappist Nuns & Northern Lazio
Thursday, April 15
- Depart Tuscany and continue south toward northern Lazio.
- Visit the Trappist cloisters in Vitorchiano, where resident nuns produce natural wines and pastries.
- Share lunch at the monastery before continuing to Viterbo.
- Settle into Viterbo’s historic center and gather for a first dinner in town.
Viterbo, Cimino & Regional Cooking
Friday, April 16
- Discover Viterbo’s medieval quarters, local markets, and slower rhythm of daily life.
- Take part in a regional cooking experience and lunch at one of the Premiate Trattorie Italiane centered on the traditions of northern Lazio.
- In the afternoon, continue to nearby Ronciglione, listed amongst the Borghi più Belli d’Italia.
- Return to Viterbo for a relaxed evening and dinner at leisure.
Calcata & Roma
Saturday, April 17
- Depart Viterbo and travel toward Calcata, a hilltop village known for its artistic community and dramatic setting above the valley.
- After lunch, continue to Roma and upon arrival, settle into the city.
- Follow Caravaggio with visits to Santa Maria del Popolo, Sant’Agostino, and San Luigi dei Francesi, home to six of his masterpieces.
- Gather for a convivial farewell dinner celebrating the final evening together in Italy.
Departure
Sunday, April 18
- Breakfast at the hotel, followed by check-out and private transfers to Roma Fiumicino Airport.
Gallery
Testimonials
What an amazing, beautifully curated trip!! Gorgeous places, generous and gracious people, and gastronomical genius! Cannot wait to explore more!
Alice made our trip unforgettable. She truly listened to what we wanted, adjusted plans with care, and made everything seamless. Her timing was perfect — always checking in just when needed. The guides felt like old friends, and every hotel, restaurant, and activity was spot on. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience!
The total program was perfect including itinerary, guides, lodging, transportation,and food choices. Your recommendations and guidance was spot on!
We had an incredible trip! We are leaving with full hearts and endless memories. Thank you for being a constant source of help and information. The level of service we received from you was truly one of the biggest highlights from our trip. And the care each hotel put into receiving our children was heartwarming. I’m so grateful for you and all your attention to detail. Thank you for crafting such a well executed adventure for me and my family!
Authentic is the correct one word description. The tour guides were fantastic, and really portrayed to the local society tremendously. Thank You for a Great trip !!!
