Day Six

Consider another excursion for your sixth day, this time to the historically significant Siena and the beautiful Tuscan countryside. Siena thrived prior to the Renaissance, and the Italian Gothic and Romanesque architecture reflects that. Siena’s Il Duomo was built in the 12^th century. The interior is stunning, with works of art embedded in the flooring.

 

For an interesting view of art in great contrast to what you have enjoyed all week, head to the Picture Gallery (Pinacoteca Nazionale). It is housed in a 14^th century palazzo, and it contains a collection from the Sienese school of painting, which rivaled that of Florence at one time. The works here are by some of the greatest artists of the pre-Renaissance.

 

When you are finished in Siena, idle away a few hours driving through the Tuscan countryside. Made famous in recent years through books and movies, Tuscan landscapes are full of vineyards and olive groves, with charming hill towns popping up around every curve. This part of Italy is not so much about the attractions as it is about the experience. Take time to stop in the hill towns, chat with the locals, and enjoy the warmth of the Tuscan sun.