Its morning in Cortona. The stone of Piazza della Repubblica  has begun to warm, café tables are being set out, and the sound of cups and quiet conversation drifts across the square. Above it all, swallows weave and dive through the open sky, tracing effortless patterns between rooftops — a small, everyday spectacle that somehow captures Cortona perfectly. It’s in moments like this that the town reveals its true rhythm. Not rushed, not staged, but lived in. Locals pause for a

A hot air balloon flight over Tuscany is one of the most magical experiences in Italy. Rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves, medieval towers and golden morning light make this a once-in-a-lifetime weekend escape. Thanks to excellent road links to Florence, Siena, Lucca and the Chianti region, this experience is easy to reach from Casa Fiordalisi.This guide covers what to expect, how ballooning works, what Tuscan cuisine really is, where to eat, and how to enjoy 48 hours of

There are places in Tuscany that feel instantly familiar — and others that feel quietly special, as though you’ve discovered something personal. Casa Fiordalisi , overlooking the Val di Chiana , belongs firmly in the second category. Surrounded by open countryside yet perfectly positioned for exploring both Tuscany and Umbria , this is a holiday home designed for travellers who want space, calm, and beauty — without sacrificing access to Italy’s most celebrated towns and cit

Lake Trasimeno, in the heart of Umbria, is Italy’s fourth largest lake and a peaceful alternative to the Tuscan coast if you're looking for seafood and a swim! A short drive from Casa Fiordalisi brings you to Castiglione del Lago , a walled town overlooking the water, making it the perfect gateway for cycling, boat trips, and lazy lakeside lunches. Also make sure to visit Passignano for great lakeside dining options and a stroll. September brings mild weather, quiet villages,

Perched on a volcanic plateau, Orvieto is one of Umbria’s most dramatic towns. With its glittering Gothic cathedral, underground tunnels, and medieval lanes, it’s an easy day trip from Casa Fiordalisi—just over an hour from the house or en route about an hour from Rome travelling up the A1. September is ideal: cooler air, fewer crowds, and golden evening light on the city’s tufa stone walls. Duomo di Orvieto What to Expect 1 hour drive from Casa Fiordalisi or if travelling by

Florence may be a food lover’s dream, but the countryside just beyond it is where Tuscany’s culinary soul  truly comes alive. Whether you're craving pecorino cheese, Chianti wine, or fresh truffles, here’s how to take a tasting trail from Casa Fiordalisi. Pienza Stop 1: Pienza – The Home of Pecorino (via Chiusi-Chianciano Terme) Pienza is postcard-perfect — but it’s also famous for its Pecorino cheese . A short train + bus combo brings you to this Renaissance hill town. What

Lake Trasimeno, in the heart of Umbria, is Italy’s fourth largest lake and a peaceful alternative to the Tuscan hotspots. The closest to Casa Fiordalisi is Castiglione del Lago , a walled town overlooking the water, making it the perfect day out for cycling, boat trips, and lazy lakeside lunches just a 30 minute drive away. September brings mild weather, quiet villages, and grape harvests in the surrounding hills. Isola Polvese on Lake Trasimeno What to Expect 30 minutes from

River Arno, Florence Florence in summer is magical… and busy. With swarms of visitors at the Uffizi, Ponte Vecchio, and the Duomo, you might find yourself craving quieter corners, shady walks, and a more relaxed pace. Good news: Florence still has hidden gems  — peaceful gardens, artisan districts, and cool interiors where the locals go while the crowds stay packed around the big sights. Here’s your guide to off-the-beaten-track Florence , ideal for Summer in the city! 1. Bar

Summer in Italy isn’t just about sun and scenery—it’s also the season of festivals. From medieval parades and opera under the stars to local food fairs and jazz legends, Tuscany and Umbria come alive with authentic cultural experiences in July and August. Here’s your guide to top summer festivals you can enjoy this summer. 🎼 Umbria Jazz Festival — Perugia When:  July 12–21, 2025 Why Go:  One of Europe’s most important jazz festivals, set in the hilltop city of Perugia. Big-n

Each summer, the medieval city of Siena transforms into the stage for Italy's most famous horse race: the Palio di Siena. Held twice a year, the event is more than just a sporting spectacle—it's a centuries-old tradition packed with drama, colour, and deep local pride. The first Palio of the season took place on July 2 , and the city is now preparing for the second and even more anticipated race on August 16, 2025 . 📽️ A Bit of History The Palio dates back to the 1600s, thou

If you're staying at Casa Fiordalisi, you're perfectly positioned to explore one of Tuscany’s most charming and often overlooked cities—Arezzo. Just a 30 mins drive away, Arezzo offers the perfect day trip destination, blending rich history, artistic treasures, and a relaxed local vibe. You can also take the train from the station at Castiglion Fiorentino. Unlike its more touristy neighbors, Arezzo remains wonderfully authentic. Whether you’re drawn by its Renaissance art, m

The Valdichiana is an area rich in tradition and one of the most anticipated events of the cultural calendar is an annual horseback race between the three districts of Castiglion Fiorentino, the Palio dei Rioni, which takes place on the 3rd Sunday in June. With historical processions preceding it, the race takes place at Piazzale Garibaldi at 6.45pm, where the whole town gathers in their respective colours, waving flags, singing and cheering for the two riders entered for eac

The Sentiero della Bonifica is a reclamation path in the Valdichina between Arezzo and Chiusi. It ambles along the Canale Maestro della Chiana stretching approximately 60 kilometers from Arezzo to Chiusi. It was originally used for canal and lock maintenance and is completely flat making it perfectly suited for family-friendly walks or cycling. It can be accessed from the house.