Mietwagenrundreise "Von der Toskana an die Adria"

About the destination: The city of Pisa once rivalled Genoa and Venice as a maritime power, emulated Padua and Perugia as a university town, and developed a distinctive style of Romanesque architecture. Today, the city draws its fame from an architectural project gone terribly wrong and relies on the tide of tourists who flow into the city every day. The most important monuments are concentrated in the piazza del Duomo. The baptistery, cathedral, Leaning Tower, and Camposanto shine like carved ivory, rising out of a broad expanse of emerald green grass. The duomo contains Giovanni Pisano’s masterful pulpit, with its violently dramatic Gothic reliefs. You can make your unbalanced way to the top of the Torre Pendente, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, from which local boy Galileo Galilei dropped a variety of objects in his attempt to understand gravity. Education has fuelled the local economy since the 1400s, and students from across Italy still compete for places in its elite university and research schools and help keep a vibrant and affordable cafe and bar scene. This metropolis of a hundred thousand inhabitants is much more than a tower, is a city full of art and history.

About the destination: Lucca is a city and commune in Tuscany. Its long history goes back to Etruscan and Ancient Roman times, and the city retains pieces of Ancient architecture. Lucca's great era was in the Gothic era just before the Renaissance, and the city contains much marvelous architecture from that era. Lucca's current defensive walls were designed by Leonardo Da Vinci and were never breached. Lucca remained an independent city state until the end of the 18th century. The church of San Frediano is the only example of Lombard architecture preserved without notable alteration, excepting the façade, which is of the year 1200. S. Maria foris Portam, S. Michele, S. Romano, and the other churches all possess valuable works of art. The tomb of the Lucchese poet, Guidiccioni, is in the church of S. Francesco (quattrocento). The Case Guinigi and the Guinigi Tower represent a marvellous example of Medieaval architecture in Lucca. The Case Guinigi were a group of mansions and towers where one of the most important families of the town, the Guinigi, lived. The enormous and beautifully conserved villas and gardens of the Lucca hills have become a major attraction for visitors to the town.

About the destination: Florence is as vital and beautiful today as when its wool and silk merchants and bankers revolutionized the economy of 13th century Tuscany, and the art of Dante and Michelangelo stunned the world. Florence was the centre of the Italian Renaissance. The fruits of the city’s rebirth are still evident in its seemingly endless array of museums, churches and palazzi. With its historic centre classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Duomo, the elegant and beautiful cathedral, dominates the city and is an unmistakable reference point in your wanderings. The River Arno, which cuts through the oldest part of the city, is crowned with the Ponte Vecchio bridge lined with shops and held up by stilts. Dating back to the 14th century, it is the only bridge that survived attacks during WWII. Standing by the river at night, when the city is illuminated with a myriad twinkling lights, is unforgettable. But more remains of Florence’s incomparable heritage than stones and paint, the city’s indomitable spirit has also survived the centuries, ensuring Florentine life today its liveliness and sophistication.

About the destination: Nestled in the heart of the Chianti wine region, Castellina in Chianti is a picturesque Tuscan town that effortlessly blends rich history, stunning landscapes, and exquisite cuisine. As you approach this charming destination, you'll be greeted by rolling hills covered in vineyards and olive groves, setting the scene for a quintessential Italian escape. The town's medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, and vibrant piazzas invite you to take leisurely strolls and immerse yourself in its timeless beauty. A visit to Castellina in Chianti wouldn't be complete without exploring its historic landmarks. Start your journey at the Rocca di Castellina, a 14th-century fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The fortress also houses the Archaeological Museum of the Chianti Senese, where you can delve into the region's Etruscan roots and discover an impressive collection of artifacts. Another must-see is the Via delle Volte, an ancient covered passageway that runs beneath the town's main street, providing a unique glimpse into Castellina's past. Wine enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise, as Castellina in Chianti is renowned for its production of Chianti Classico. Numerous wineries and vineyards open their doors for tours and tastings, allowing you to savor some of the finest wines in Italy. Don't miss the chance to visit the local enotecas, where knowledgeable sommeliers can guide you through the diverse flavors and characteristics of the region's wines. Pair your tasting experience with traditional Tuscan dishes at one of the town's rustic trattorias or upscale restaurants, where you can enjoy delights like ribollita, bistecca alla fiorentina, and pappardelle al cinghiale. For those seeking a bit of adventure, the surrounding countryside offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Hiking and biking trails wind through the scenic landscape, offering breathtaking views at every turn. You can also take a leisurely drive along the Chiantigiana road, which connects Castellina in Chianti with other enchanting towns in the region, such as Radda in Chianti and Greve in Chianti. Whether you're a history buff, a wine lover, or simply in search of tranquility, Castellina in Chianti promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Tuscany.

About the destination: "Siena is a city in Tuscany, Italy. It is the capital of the province of Siena. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • The Piazza del Campo, the unique shell shaped piazza at the centre of the city, and twice a year the racetrack for the Palio • The Palazzo Pubblico, Siena's City Hall for almost 800 years, contains the famous frescos on good and bad government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, frescoes by Simone Martini and Duccio, and access to the Torre del Mangia, from whose top you can view a beautiful panorama of the Sienese countryside. • The Duomo, Siena's magnificent black and white Italian Romanesque cathedral including the Libreria Piccolomini, Baptistery and an attached Museo dell'Opera del Duomo which includes the famous Maestà by Duccio. • The Pinacoteca, full of Sienese painting from the city's Medieval heyday. • The Palazzo Salimbeni, built in 1472, is the world headquarters of Monte dei Paschi di Siena, the major banking corporation which has a hand in much of the economic and cultural life of the city. • The house where St. Catherine of Siena was born is just a few blocks from the duomo. • The Piccolomini Palace built in 1459 by the well-known architect Bernardo Rossellino, disciple of Leon Battista Alberti. The Piccolomini Palace is one of the most popular sites on the Piazza del Campo. The Florentine style palace is home to the official archives of Siena."

About the destination: The small town of San Gimignano has a medieval origin as well shows its spectacular wall, is perched on the hills of Tuscany, village is located only 35 minutes drive from Siena and Florence, so any tourist who has thought to go to one of the two cities can pass by the wonder of this village. Since in addition in 1990, UNESCO declared the historic centre of San Gimignano patrimony of the humanity, is very particular mainly by its medieval architecture especially for its towers. It also transpires that the village was a point of pilgrimage for people that it was heading to Rome.

About the destination: Volterra is a municipality in the province of Pisa, in the region of Tuscany, Italy. The found sites know that in the Neolithic period, Volterra was already inhabited by humans. The municipality was witness to the birth of the Etruscan civilization. And the city was one of the main cities of the "Etruscan League", by that reason was surrounded by 7 km of solid walls. In the year 283 BC, the Romans defeated the Etruscans at the battle of Lake Vadimone and a few years later becomes part of the Italian Confederation, changing its name to the Volaterrae. So the city has interesting places to visit such as the ruins of Velathri, the famous Porta allArco within its walled enclosure of the necropolis and Etruscan era, as well as the Cathedral of the XII-XIII-XIV centuries.

About the destination: "Siena is a city in Tuscany, Italy. It is the capital of the province of Siena. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • The Piazza del Campo, the unique shell shaped piazza at the centre of the city, and twice a year the racetrack for the Palio • The Palazzo Pubblico, Siena's City Hall for almost 800 years, contains the famous frescos on good and bad government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, frescoes by Simone Martini and Duccio, and access to the Torre del Mangia, from whose top you can view a beautiful panorama of the Sienese countryside. • The Duomo, Siena's magnificent black and white Italian Romanesque cathedral including the Libreria Piccolomini, Baptistery and an attached Museo dell'Opera del Duomo which includes the famous Maestà by Duccio. • The Pinacoteca, full of Sienese painting from the city's Medieval heyday. • The Palazzo Salimbeni, built in 1472, is the world headquarters of Monte dei Paschi di Siena, the major banking corporation which has a hand in much of the economic and cultural life of the city. • The house where St. Catherine of Siena was born is just a few blocks from the duomo. • The Piccolomini Palace built in 1459 by the well-known architect Bernardo Rossellino, disciple of Leon Battista Alberti. The Piccolomini Palace is one of the most popular sites on the Piazza del Campo. The Florentine style palace is home to the official archives of Siena."

About the destination: "Perugia is the capital city of the region of Umbria in central Italy, crossed by the river Tiber. The city is also the capital of the province of Perugia. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Undergound Perugia. The escalators from the lower town lead up through the remains of Rocca Paolina which was a 16th-century fortress. • Porta Marzia (Marzia Gate). This is an Etruscan city gate built in the Third Century BC and much later incorporated into the city walls. It is close to the remains of the Paolina Fortress. • Fontana Maggiore. This large medieval fountain is found between the cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori. It was made between 1277 and 1278 by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano as part of Perugia's celebrations of its independence. • Cathedral of San Lorenzo. This has an unusual layout for Italian churches in that the side rather than the front entrance faces the main square. • Palazzo dei Priori. This is a large building in Italian Gothic style built in the early 1300s. On the side facing the piazza are a griffin, the emblem of Perugia, a 14th century bronze lion, and some chains, from where the keys of Siena were displayed after victory over the Sienese in 1358."

About the destination: "Assisi is a town and comune of Italy in the province of Perugia in the Umbria region, on the western flank of Monte Subasio. Super medieval city with narrow and charming streets MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Piazza Matteotti cross the street and go down towards San Rufino Cathedral, that has probably the most beautiful façade of all the churches in town. • Via San Rufino. There is a small fountain known as the ""lions fountain"". There are two main attractions on the Piazza: the ""Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo"" with the clock tower and the beautiful church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva with its impresive roman columns. • St. Claire's Basilica. There is a lovely piazza in front of the Church, with wonderful views of the valley. • San Damiano • Santa Maria Maggiore Church, a little look for the monastery of St Quirico. • Rocca Maggiore a lovely site with wonderful views. • Eremo delle Carceri."

About the destination: "Perugia is the capital city of the region of Umbria in central Italy, crossed by the river Tiber. The city is also the capital of the province of Perugia. MAIN TOURIST ATTRACTIONS • Undergound Perugia. The escalators from the lower town lead up through the remains of Rocca Paolina which was a 16th-century fortress. • Porta Marzia (Marzia Gate). This is an Etruscan city gate built in the Third Century BC and much later incorporated into the city walls. It is close to the remains of the Paolina Fortress. • Fontana Maggiore. This large medieval fountain is found between the cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori. It was made between 1277 and 1278 by Nicola and Giovanni Pisano as part of Perugia's celebrations of its independence. • Cathedral of San Lorenzo. This has an unusual layout for Italian churches in that the side rather than the front entrance faces the main square. • Palazzo dei Priori. This is a large building in Italian Gothic style built in the early 1300s. On the side facing the piazza are a griffin, the emblem of Perugia, a 14th century bronze lion, and some chains, from where the keys of Siena were displayed after victory over the Sienese in 1358."

About the destination: This former fishing hamlet is at the foot of Monte Conero in the stunning and unspoilt Conero Nature reserve, and is a great seaside town with lots of facilities for all the family. This little gem sits just a few kilometres south of Ancona and is a great desination if you wish to explore one of Marche's most unspoilt and beautiful places. The place used to be a small fishing port, but today it is a seaside resort which is popular with the locals. The water is crystal clear and the beach consists of fine white pebbles. Here you can enjoy abundant nature and peace and quiet far from the hordes of tourists in the shadow of Monte Conero's green mountain hills. It is not without reason that it is loved by the locals. Buildings are sparse and there are just a few hotels and a small grocery store and a campsite. Note that the price of parking is at the higher end. There are several excellent fish restaurants in Portonovo. The view from the terraces of the restaurants is unbeatable; on one side there is Monte Conero, and on the other there is a clear view of the open sea. On the weekends there are many young visitors in town and it can get a bit noisy during the day and in the evening.