UMBRIA - TUSCANY - LATIO BY ROAD IN APRIL

Departure from Athens to the port of Patras where we will board the ship for the Italian port of Ancona. Overnight on board.

Arrival in Ancona, boarding the coach and departure for the city that will host us for 3 nights, Perugia. In between, before reaching the final destination of the day, we will get the first very important taste of the Umbria province. The medieval, stone-built Gubbio stands proudly under the slopes of Mount Ingino. Its rich cultural heritage is evident everywhere: From the ruins of the Roman theater to the religious festival La Festa dei Ceri, which gathers thousands of believers every year on May 15. Wander the steep, winding streets that will lead you to the spectacular central square Piazza Grande, with the imposing Gothic Palazzo dei Consoli that stands out for its jagged finish and hosts the city's archaeological museum. Be sure to climb its tower for the magnificent view over the city's rooftops, before heading to the austere Cathedral and the 15th-century Palazzo Ducale. Departure for Perugia, check-in at our hotel, overnight.

Little has changed in Perugia’s beautiful historic center. A maze of cobblestone streets is crowned by stone arches, while its squares are lined with Gothic palaces and medieval churches with Renaissance decorations. In addition to being the capital of Umbria, Perugia is also the largest walled medieval city in Italy, a real movie set from another era. An Etruscan base since the 6th century BC, it is also the homeland of Perugino, a great Renaissance painter and Raphael’s teacher. His works adorn the entire city, with some of them exhibited in the National Gallery of Umbria, housed in the Palazzo dei Priori, an architectural gem considered “the soul of the city.” Together with the Cathedral, they are the two most important buildings of the city's central square, Piazza IV Novembre, where the Roman market was once located. A break for rest and we depart for neighboring Assisi. A city that is absolutely photogenic, absolutely impressive and with a strong religious feeling, directly linked to the life of Saint Francis (1181-1226), protector of the environment and the animal kingdom, who was born here. The Basilica di San Francesco, dedicated to the saint, dates back to the 13th century and attracts crowds of visitors, not only for pilgrimage but also thanks to its rich decoration with frescoes and works of art, comparable to museum collections. Assisi, which has played a very important role in the spread of the Franciscan doctrine, has been designated a world cultural heritage monument by UNESCO. Return to Perugia and our hotel, overnight stay.

A day exploring the "Green Heart of Italy". After all, with so many tempting and rich experiences that this beautiful region promises, an ideal visit would not be limited to the sights of Perugia, but would also include as many of the following beautiful cities as possible. UBERTIDE is within walking distance. Dozens of pastel houses built on the banks of the Tiber's curve and a medieval castle intact from the passage of time, compose a fairy-tale setting capable of transporting you to another era. This is one of the largest cities in Umbria, with ancient origins dating back to the 6th century BC. Next up is CITTA DI CASTELLO. Enclosed within its Renaissance walls, the "Castle City", built next to the Tiber and very close to the border with Tuscany, claims from Florence the title of the birthplace of the Renaissance. Its architectural character certainly makes it a work of art, with a labyrinth of narrow alleys, full of hidden churches. The main attraction is the Archbishop's Tower with the 14th century clock and the magnificent view over the historic center to the Tiber valley. We enter Tuscany, we first encounter the historic city of ARETSO, famous for its rich artistic heritage and its intense cultural scene. Immerse yourself in the city's historical past as you visit attractions such as the magnificent Piazza Grande, adorned with elegant Renaissance buildings and the imposing Medici fortress. Admire the exquisite frescoes that adorn the walls of the Basilica of San Francesco, including the famous "Legend of the True Cross" by Piero della Francesca. Next, the charming city of CORTONA, known for its enchanting beauty and timeless charm. Explore the narrow cobbled streets, adorned with medieval architecture and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and Lake Trasimeno from the high points of the city. Where Umbria meets Tuscany, the calm waters of Lake Trasimeno and the surrounding towns create an absolutely romantic setting that we will enjoy on our way to Perugia and our hotel. Overnight stay.

Departure for the port of Ancona, settling into cabins and overnight on board.

Arrival at the port of Patras, boarding our bus and return to Athens.