Central Italy Tours
Self-guided and guided tours through Central Italy, across Tuscany, Umbria and the Saint Francis Way to Assisi.
Central Italy is one of Europe’s great destinations for guided and self-guided active travel. From the rolling vine-covered hills of Tuscany and the truffle-scented forests of Umbria to the volcanic peaks of the Apennines and the ancient pilgrimage roads leading to Rome, the region rewards those who explore it on foot and by bicycle. Walk the Via Francigena through medieval hilltop towns, cycle the Val d’Orcia past cypress-lined lanes, hike the Apennines on the Way of St Francis, or explore the Etruscan hilltop towns of Tuscany and Lazio. Central Italy combines extraordinary landscapes, deep history, world-class food and wine, and the warmth of agriturismo hospitality into one of the most rewarding touring experiences in Europe.
Explore Central Italy Trips by activity
10Adventures Central Italy Trips
Displaying 30 of 30 tours
Displaying 30 of 30 tours
Tuscany
Tuscany 5-day Cycling Tour
This Tuscan bike tour is the perfect way to experience the rich sights, sounds, and tastes of Tuscany in an efficient bicycle trip.
Italy
St Francis Way from Citta to Assisi
Embroidered with fascinating tales, ancient medieval architectural wonders, and local delicacies like wine, cheese, and truffles, this self-guided pilgrimage along the Saint Francis Way not only takes you through a pinnacle point in spiritual history but it introduces you to Italy’s quintessential cultural greats in a unique, inspiring way.
Italy
St. Francis Way Assisi to Spoleto Walking Tour
Traverse Umbria, “the green heart of Italy,” where mouthwatering local cuisine and medieval remnants dot the lush landscape. While this seven-day self-guided tour from Assisi to Spoleto encompasses Italy’s famed quirks, it also provides a meaningful, thought-provoking spiritual twist.
Tuscany
Elba Island Walking Tour
The Elba Island Walking Tour is the perfect way to explore all that the “Pearl of Tuscany” has to offer. Trek from alpine villages to the pristine beaches lining the Mediterranean and soak up the rich history of the island in classic fishing villages and vibrant towns.
Tuscany
Tuscany Val d’Orcia Cycling Tour
The Tuscany Val d’Orcia Cycling Tour is the perfect way to experience the best of Tuscan scenery, food, and culture in an efficient cycling trip.
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Umbria Cycling Tour
Amidst the rolling green hills of Umbria, you’ll encounter impeccably preserved medieval treasures such as Montefalco, celebrated for its wines, Assisi, graced by Saint Francis, and the lively “Art City” of Perugia. Cycling through the Tiber Valley and Umbrian hills reveals a landscape rich with olive groves, golden wheat fields, and breathtaking vistas. Indulge in the finest Italian cuisine, where truffles are the star, and savor the region’s exceptional local wines.
Tuscany
Tuscany Cycling from Pisa to Florence (5-day)
The Tuscany Cycling Tour from Pisa to Florence is a 5-day tour, and the perfect way to pack the best sights, tastes, and sounds of Tuscany into an efficient cycling tour. You can taste the best Tuscan cuisine, sample regionally-produced wine, and learn about the vibrant history of Tuscany at every stop.
Italy
Walking St. Francis Way, Spoleto to Rieti
The historic path from Spoleto to Rieti takes you along the footsteps of St. Francis, the man that 800 years ago decided to embrace poverty, living in close contact with the animals and leading an errant life, trying to bring joy in other people’s lives. The Walking St. Francis Way, Spoleto to Rieti tour leads you through gorgeous Umbria on the same path that he and many pilgrims in the years since have followed.
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Tuscany Cycling from Pisa to Florence
The Tuscany Cycling from Pisa to Florence Tour is an incredibly enjoyable, relaxed way to tour Tuscany’s must-see cities, nature preserves, and wineries via bicycle.
Via Francigena
Via Francigena from Montefiascone to Rome
A journey on the Via Francigena is like traveling back in time, and this self-guided route takes you from Montefiascone to Rome. Walk between lovely historic villages and through scenic Lazio countryside before reaching the incomparable city of Rome. This tour along the Via Francigena combines history, culture, nature, adventure, tradition, and great food into one amazing experience.
Tuscany
Via Degli Dei from Bologna to Florence Walking Tour
The Way of the Gods or Via degli Dei is a stunning walking route that connects two of Italy’s most important art cities: Bologna and Florence. Walk through history, with wonderful views over the Italian countryside, wonderful food and wine in each village, and history everywhere.
Tuscany
From Siena to Cortona Walking Tour
Imagine walking in the Tuscan countryside, connecting the iconic towns of Siena and Cortona. Days filled with walking through Tuscany, evenings in towns and villages, enjoying world class food, wonderful wine, and incredible history. This Siena to Cortona walking tour is the trip for you.
Tuscany
Tuscany Cycling through the Val d’Orcia
This self-guided cycling tour through Tuscany takes you through the Val d’Orcia. This bike tour is an incredible opportunity to see one of Tuscany’s most pristine natural areas by bicycle. Cycling through quaint Tuscan towns, eating delicious, authentic cuisine, and relaxing in expansive accommodations await you on this lovely Tuscan cycling tour.
Via Francigena
Via Francigena from Lucca to Siena
Beauty and adventure await you on this Via Francigena pilgrimage walking tour through Tuscany. Enjoy the best of the Italian countryside as you walk from Lucca to Siena along the ancient pilgrimage route. Panoramic views of rolling hills and vineyard stretch out before you like a painting on this incredible tour.
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Etruscan Hilltop Towns of Italy Tour
The Etruscan Hilltop Towns of Italy tour is a perfect experience for those who want to get in touch with some of Italy’s quiet, idyllic regions: Tuscany, Umbria, and Lazio. There is something about hilltop towns that makes them look straight out of a fairytale. Perched on top of hills and cliffs, they dominate the surrounding countryside with their castles, fortresses and houses.
Central Italy
Walking Tour of Umbria
Umbria offers a captivating blend of stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse landscapes. Wander through quiet oak forests, rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves, while encountering ancient hermitages, monasteries, and churches adorned with masterful frescoes. Scenic high-altitude trails, shaded forest paths, and charming villages dot the journey, with castles and fortresses crowning the hilltops. Food lovers will be delighted by the region’s specialties: Lake Trasimeno is famed for its red wine, Trevi produces exceptional olive oil, and Spoleto is known for its world-class truffles. The high trail around Lake Trasimeno provides sunny hikes with panoramic lake views, while the Via Francigena leads through the pilgrimage town of Assisi to the iconic Spoleto Bridge, famously crossed by Goethe.
Tuscany
Walking in Val d’Orcia: Montepulciano to Siena
The Walking in Val d’Orcia: Montepulciano to Siena walking tour is an excellent way to immerse yourself in Tuscany’s most beautiful landscapes and get in touch with Tuscan culture, history, and cuisine through walking and trekking.
Via Francigena
Via Francigena: Orvieto to Rome
The Via Francigena walking tour from Orvieto to Rome Tour is a unique opportunity to walk and trek across an ancient pilgrim trail through the awe-inspiring landscape and historic villages before arriving in Rome, one of Italy’s most popular destinations.
Tuscany
Hiking the Tuscan Coast from Pisa to Elba
Want to see a different part of Tuscany from what you expect? Trade the rolling hills for the stunning coastline on this wonderful walking tour. Fear not, even though you are on the coast you will still indulge every meal with wonderful Tuscan food and wine, a great reward after a beautiful day walking.
Tuscany
Walking in Chianti Tour
This Tuscan walking tour takes you through the enchanting Chianti Region. This is a great way to explore Tuscany on foot, while tasting the world-renowned offerings of the region, including signature Chianti wine and Florentine cuisine.
Via Francigena
Via Francigena Cycling from Parma to Siena
The Via Francigena Cycling from Parma to Siena Tour takes you through Tuscany on Italy’s famous pilgrimage route, from coastline to rolling hills and all the beautiful scenery in between. You’ll be able to taste the renowned food and wine of the region and explore unique towns and villages as you ride.
Tuscany
8-Day Venice to Florence Cycling Tour
The 8-Day Venice to Florence Cycling Tour will take you from the romantic lagoon city of Venice to the historic Tuscan capital of Florence in just eight days – doesn’t that sound incredible! In addition to these two major travel highlights, you will discover delightful small towns and villages along the route and marvel at the breathtaking nature in the ‘Delta del Po’ National Park. There is hardly a country in the world that can rival Italy’s culinary delights, such as cappuccino, cornetto, fresh fish and cool gelato – all of which you will encounter on this incredible trip! If you are looking to experience the very best scenery, culture, foods, and hospitality that Italy has to offer, be sure to book the 8-Day Venice to Florence Cycling Tour – you won’t regret it!
Via Francigena
Via Francigena Cycling from Siena to Rome
The Via Francigena Cycling from Siena to Rome Tour is an incredible opportunity to ride Italy’s ancient pilgrimage road to Rome, enjoying the villages, landscapes, and historical monuments along the way.
Central Italy
Cortona to Siena Cycling Tour
Experience the Cortona to Siena Cycling Tour, a breathtaking self-guided bike tour through the heart of Tuscany. Ride past rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and stunning landscapes, including the UNESCO-listed Val d’Orcia. This cycling holiday offers the perfect balance of exploration and relaxation, with multiple two-night stays to immerse yourself in Italy’s rich history, culture, and cuisine.
Northern Italy
Venice to Florence Cycling Tour
Discover Italy on the Venice to Florence Cycling Tour, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes come together for an unforgettable journey. Starting in Chioggia, the “Little Venice,” pedal through the serene Po River Delta, past charming lagoon towns, and into the heart of Emilia-Romagna. Marvel at Ravenna’s dazzling Byzantine mosaics, explore Faenza’s renowned ceramics, and ride through rolling vineyards and olive groves.
Central Italy
Florence to Pisa Self-Guided Cycling Tour
Explore the heart of Tuscany on a cycling adventure through its rolling hills, charming towns, and rich cultural heritage. The Tuscany Cycling Tour takes you from the Renaissance wonders of Florence to the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, with stops in historic cities like Siena, San Gimignano, and Lucca. Pedal through the famous Chianti wine region, visit local wineries, and discover the beauty of medieval villages and picturesque landscapes.
Via Francigena
Via Francigena from Lucca to Rome
Embark on an extraordinary journey along the legendary Via Francigena pilgrimage route, on the 22-Day Self-Guided Via Francigena from Lucca to Rome tour. Trace centuries of history from the elegant walled city of Lucca to the timeless grandeur of Rome. Your adventure begins amidst Lucca’s Renaissance charm before leading you into the heart of Tuscany, where rolling hills, vineyard-clad landscapes, and medieval villages set the stage for an unforgettable walking experience. Following in the footsteps of Archbishop Sigeric, you’ll traverse the iconic Val d’Elsa, discover the skyline of San Gimignano, and pass through beautifully preserved hamlets such as Monteriggioni. Each day reveals a rich tapestry of culture, from Romanesque churches and ancient pilgrim hospices to the artistic and architectural treasures of Siena.
Northern Italy
Venice to Pisa Cycling Tour
The Venice to Pisa Cycling Tour is a unique and unforgettable 12-day cycling journey through some of Italy’s most picturesque landscapes. Beginning in the charming town of Chioggia, this adventure takes cyclists across the Venetian Lagoon, Po River Delta, and the stunning countryside of Tuscany, with stops in historic cities like Ravenna, Florence, and Lucca. Pedal through medieval villages, birdwatch along wetlands, and explore the rich culture and history of Italy’s most iconic locations.
Tuscany
Southern Tuscany & Elba Guided E-Bike Tour
Discover remarkable highlights as you explore Tuscany by e-bike, such as Etruscan and Roman remains, medieval villages, gentle hills, the turquoise ocean, and distinguished wines.
Italy
Italy Coast to Coast Cycling Tour
There’s no better way to experience Italy than from coast to coast! This road bike tour will take you on a unique 10-day ride from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Adriatic Sea. The Italy Coast to Coast Cycling Tour makes 8 stops in 8 unforgettable locales, each with their own beauty and culture.
Planning your trip to Central Italy in 2026
What’s New in Central Italy in 2026
Planning a trip to Central Italy in 2026? A few things worth knowing. Overtourism in Florence and Rome continues to drive many travellers toward the quieter hilltop towns of Umbria and southern Tuscany, where self-guided walking and cycling tours offer a more authentic experience. The Via Francigena pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome continues to grow in international popularity, with improved waymarking and accommodation infrastructure across the Tuscan and Lazio sections. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) remain the best seasons for cycling and hiking, with comfortable temperatures and uncrowded trails. Summer heat in the valleys and plains is significant; higher Apennine routes offer cooler alternatives from June to August.
Where is Central Italy
Central Italy encompasses the regions of Tuscany, Umbria, Lazio and Marche, stretching from the Tyrrhenian coast in the west to the Adriatic in the east, and from the Apennine spine at the centre of the Italian peninsula. The region’s major cities include Rome, Florence, Siena and Perugia. Central Italy is served by international airports in Rome (Fiumicino and Ciampino) and Florence, with excellent rail connections across the region. Browse all Italy tours to explore beyond Central Italy, or discover tours in Italy’s other regions: guided Northern Italy tours and guided Southern Italy tours.
Where to go in Central Italy
Central Italy’s regions each offer a distinct character for active travellers. Rome, Florence, and Siena are popular starting points, while regions like Tuscany and Umbria offer stunning countryside views. The Apennine Mountains are excellent for outdoor adventures and cultural explorations. For hiking, the Apennines and the Via Francigena offer multi-day routes through some of Europe’s finest medieval landscapes, with dedicated self-guided Tuscany hiking tours and self-guided Via Francigena tours collections on 10Adventures. For cycling, Tuscany’s Val d’Orcia and the Umbrian hills provide world-class routes through vineyards and olive groves, with self-guided Tuscany cycling tours available across the region. Browse Central Italy hiking tours and Central Italy cycling tours to find the right tour for your itinerary.
What to do in Central Italy
Hiking in the Apennines, cycling through vineyards, and exploring ancient ruins provide endless options. For history lovers, visiting medieval towns like Assisi and Perugia is a must. For the complete range of Italy hiking tours, self-guided Via Francigena hiking tours and Italy cycling tours available across Italy, browse the full 10Adventures collection.
When to go to Central Italy
Central Italy’s seasons each suit different types of activity. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) are the best seasons for trekking and sightseeing with mild weather and fewer crowds. The summer months offer beautiful landscapes but tend to be hotter, making it great for coastal and mountain activities. July and August can be extremely hot in the valleys and lowland towns; for summer activity, higher Apennine routes and coastal trails offer cooler alternatives.
Guided Tours in Central Italy
10Adventures offers a wide range of guided tours in Central Italy, from multi-day cycling adventures through Tuscany’s vineyards and Umbrian hills to guided walking tours along the Via Francigena and the Way of St Francis. Local English-speaking guides provide cultural context for the medieval towns, ancient pilgrimage roads and regional food and wine culture that define the Central Italy experience. Browse all guided Central Italy hiking tours and Central Italy cycling tours to find the right guided tour.
Self-Guided Tours in Central Italy
Central Italy is one of Europe’s most accessible self-guided touring destinations. Well-marked walking and cycling routes, excellent agriturismo and hotel accommodation networks, and luggage transfer services on key routes like the Via Francigena make independent touring straightforward. Browse all self-guided Central Italy hiking tours and Central Italy cycling tours to find self-guided options on 10Adventures.
FAQ for Central Italy Tours
How widely is English spoken in Central Italy?
In major cities like Rome, Florence, and Siena, English is commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. In smaller towns and rural areas, English may be less common, so knowing some basic Italian phrases can be helpful.
How long should I go to Central Italy?
A visit to Central Italy should ideally last at least 7-10 days to fully explore key cities like Rome and Florence, as well as the countryside of Tuscany and Umbria. For a deeper experience, 2-3 weeks is recommended, especially if planning to visit multiple regions.
Should I bring Euros to Central Italy or use a credit card?
Both options work in Central Italy. Euros are widely accepted, and having cash is useful for smaller purchases in rural areas. Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops in cities, but some small businesses may prefer cash.
Is Central Italy family-friendly?
Yes, Central Italy is very family-friendly, offering a range of activities suitable for all ages, from historical tours to outdoor adventures. Children will enjoy visiting ancient landmarks in Rome and exploring the countryside in Tuscany.
What’s the best way to get around Central Italy?
The best way to travel through Central Italy is by train or car. Trains are efficient between major cities, while renting a car offers flexibility for exploring rural areas, vineyards, and hilltop towns.
What are the accommodation types in Central Italy?
Central Italy offers a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, agriturismos (farm stays), bed and breakfasts, and luxury resorts. There are also vacation rentals in rural areas and boutique hotels in historic city centers.
What is the time zone in Central Italy?
Central Italy operates on Central European Time (CET) during the standard time period and Central European Summer Time (CEST) during daylight savings.
Can I do a self-guided tour in Central Italy?
Yes, self-guided tours are popular in Central Italy. Many visitors opt for self-guided hikes, cycling tours, and city explorations. Maps and guides are widely available for those who prefer independent travel. Browse self-guided Central Italy hiking tours and self-guided Central Italy cycling tours to find self-guided options on 10Adventures.
Can I do guided tours in Central Italy?
Yes, guided tours are readily available in Central Italy. From historical walking tours in Rome to wine tours in Tuscany, there are numerous options for those who prefer expert guidance. Browse guided Central Italy hiking tours and guided Central Italy cycling tours to find guided options on 10Adventures.
How to get to Central Italy?
Central Italy is easily accessible by air, with major airports in Rome and Florence. Trains connect from other parts of Europe, and it’s well-serviced by road networks for those driving from nearby regions.
What are the major towns in Central Italy?
Major towns in Central Italy include Rome, Florence, Siena, Assisi, Pisa, and Perugia. Each offers a unique blend of history, culture, and architecture.
Is public transportation reliable in Central Italy?
Yes, public transportation is generally reliable in Central Italy, particularly trains and buses between major cities and towns. However, rural areas may have limited services, so renting a car can provide more flexibility.
What should I pack for Central Italy?
Packing for Central Italy depends on the season. Lightweight clothing for summer, layers for spring and autumn, and a good pair of walking shoes for city tours and countryside hikes are essential. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat for sunny days.
Are there vegetarian or special dietary options available in Central Italy?
Yes, Central Italy offers a wide variety of food options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes. Many restaurants, especially in tourist areas, accommodate special dietary needs, but it's always good to inform them in advance.
What are the best souvenirs to buy from Central Italy?
Popular souvenirs from Central Italy include Tuscan wines, olive oil, leather goods from Florence, ceramics from Umbria, and artisanal pasta. Local markets and shops offer plenty of authentic items to bring home as memories.
Is tipping customary in Central Italy?
Tipping is not obligatory in Central Italy, but it’s appreciated. A small tip (5-10%) in restaurants or rounding up the bill is common. For exceptional service, leaving a bit more is a nice gesture.
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