Paths To Perugia – Escorted
Far in the south-east corner of Tuscany on the edge of the Apennine hills, where the River Tiber begins its journey down to Rome are gems to be discovered: delightful countryside with sone wonderful walking and extensive views, outstanding medieval walled towns where we stay – with comfortable hotels and some excellent restaurants, each one a delight to wander through and explore, and each with famously iconic historic works of Art - Città Di Castello in the Tiber Valley, high walled Cortona with its spectacular views to Lake Trasimeno, and Perugia which we enter through the ancient underground city with its cathedral and renowned Art treasures...
… And there is more; this is the homeland of Piero della Francesca ‘the greatest painter who ever lived’ and this is where his greatest works remain – where they were painted – as frescoes - for us to visit… whether his evocative Madonna del Parto in the village of Monterchi, his famous masterpieces in his birthplace, San Sepulchro or fresco cycle in Arezzo – walking to visit them all are in the itinerary!
Duration: 8 days
Trip dates:
17 - 24 Oct 2026
Itinerary
We travel by road from Rome Fiumicino to the medieval town of Città di Castello (2.5 hours) where we stay for three nights.
Città di Castello is a historic town located in the northern part of the Umbria region in central Italy, near the border with Tuscany. Set along the upper Tiber River, it is known for its rich history, Renaissance architecture and vibrant cultural life. Founded by the ancient Umbrians and later developed under Roman rule, the town flourished during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, becoming an important centre of art and culture. It was ruled at different times by powerful families and the Papal States.
Elegant 16th century palazzo on small piazza in medieval town
We drive to the medieval town of Anghiari, then walk through gentle countryside with views of Citerna before descending to Monterchi, where Piero della Francesca's mother was born and the famous fresco of the 'Madonna del Parto' (1460) is rehoused in the converted village school (5.7 miles, 3 hours). We then return to Città di Castello.
Monterchi is a small, charming hilltop village in Tuscany, near the border with Umbria. It is best known for housing the famous fresco Madonna del Parto by Renaissance master Piero della Francesca, which draws art lovers from around the world. The village offers panoramic views of the Tiber Valley, narrow medieval streets and a peaceful atmosphere. Rich in history and culture, Monterchi is a hidden gem that captures the beauty and spirit of rural Italy.
Elegant 16th century palazzo on small piazza in medieval town
We walk down from the wooded hills depicted by Piero della Francesca surrounding the monastery of Monte Casale to Sansepolcro, his birthplace. After lunch we visit Sansepolcro's Museo Civico, with important works by Piero, including his 'Resurrection', and pass the 14th century house where he is thought to have lived (8.3 miles, 4 hours).
Città di Castello features well preserved medieval walls, elegant palaces and religious buildings. Notable landmarks include the Cathedral of Saints Florido and Amanzio, the Palazzo del Podestà and the Pinacoteca Comunale, which houses works by artists like Raphael, Signorelli and Ghirlandaio. Today, Città di Castello remains a charming town that blends artistic heritage, cultural events and natural beauty, making it a wonderful place to explore in Umbria.
Elegant 16th century palazzo on small piazza in medieval town
We set off by minibus, then walk past ancient Etruscan walls down to Arezzo, visiting the church of San Francesco, housing Piero della Francesca’s masterpiece, the 'Legend of the True Cross' (3.5 miles, 2 hours). We then continue on to Cortona.
Arezzo is a historic city in eastern Tuscany, Italy, known for its rich artistic and cultural heritage. Once an important Etruscan and Roman centre, it later flourished during the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Arezzo is famous for landmarks such as the Basilica of San Francesco with Piero della Francesca’s frescoes, its medieval square Piazza Grande and vibrant antique fairs. The city blends ancient charm with a lively atmosphere, offering a unique glimpse into Tuscany’s diverse past and present.
Traditional 15th century property located in the historic city centre
We walk up to the convent of Le Celle, founded by St Francis of Assisi. We then walk along a ridge back into the centre of Cortona (6 miles, 3 hours). Free time in Cortona to visit its many fine churches and museum.
Cortona is a picturesque hilltop town in Tuscany, Italy, known for its Etruscan roots, medieval architecture and breathtaking views of the Val di Chiana. Surrounded by ancient walls, it features charming narrow streets, historic churches and museums like the MAEC, showcasing Etruscan artifacts. Made famous by the book Under the Tuscan Sun, Cortona attracts visitors seeking authentic Tuscan charm, art and culture. Its blend of history, beauty and atmosphere makes it a beloved destination.
Traditional 15th century property located in the historic city centre
We follow a panoramic ridge path down to Passignano on Lake Trasimeno (12 miles, 6 hours). We then travel on to Perugia, and our hotel in the heart of the city.
Perugia, the capital of Umbria, is a historic and culturally rich city set atop a hill overlooking the Tiber Valley. Known for its Etruscan origins, medieval streets and Renaissance art, it features landmarks such as the Palazzo dei Priori, Fontana Maggiore and the National Gallery of Umbria. The city hosts the famous Umbria Jazz Festival and Eurochocolate event, celebrating music and chocolate. The town offers a blend of ancient history, vibrant cultural life and scenic views.
Converted palazzo in very central location
Time to visit some of Perugia’s exceptional monuments and museums, including the Basilica di San Pietro and the Galleria Nazionale dell’Umbria, with the 'Polyptych of Perugia' by Piero della Francesca.
Perugia is also known as an important academic centre, the University of Perugia, founded in 1308, one of Italy’s oldest universities, as well as the University for Foreigners (Università per Stranieri), established to teach Italian language and culture to international students. Perugia is a vibrant city that balances its rich past with a lively present. Its medieval streets bustle with cafés, shops and artisan boutiques, while museums, theatres and galleries provide cultural enrichment.
Converted palazzo in very central location
Return to Rome Fiumicino airport by road (2 hours).
Trip Planner
Walking & Terrain
Easy to moderate walking. This is an 8-day trip, with walks offered on 5 days. The length of each day varies from 2 to 6 hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from group to group, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing, rests or siestas. Long days are compensated for by shorter days.
Walking is mostly on easy paths, sometimes along strade bianche (unsurfaced lanes); but some of the terrain is more rugged. Please ensure your footwear provides firm ankle support. Some of our walks are very weather sensitive. If it is not possible to do a walk due to inclement weather, an alternative will be organised. Any such decision is at the discretion of the Tour Leader.
Our support vehicles allow you the flexibility to walk 'as much or as little as you like', with drop-offs and pick-ups appropriate to the given day's itinerary. The Tour Leader will tell you each evening about the following day's walking options.
Walking & Terrain
Easy to moderate walking. This is an 8-day trip, with walks offered on 5 days. The length of each day varies from 2 to 6 hours walking. Hours of walking, which may vary from group to group, means hours of actual walking and does not include stops for lunch, sightseeing, rests or siestas. Long days are compensated for by shorter days.
Walking is mostly on easy paths, sometimes along strade bianche (unsurfaced lanes); but some of the terrain is more rugged. Please ensure your footwear provides firm ankle support. Some of our walks are very weather sensitive. If it is not possible to do a walk due to inclement weather, an alternative will be organised. Any such decision is at the discretion of the Tour Leader.
Our support vehicles allow you the flexibility to walk 'as much or as little as you like', with drop-offs and pick-ups appropriate to the given day's itinerary. The Tour Leader will tell you each evening about the following day's walking options.
Your Personal ATG Route Manager
Route Book
The ATG Route Book is a detailed, day-to-day guide. The book anticipates your needs with easy-to-follow instructions, maps, plans and other information that will guide you to discover the best that the area has to offer and is the key to the success of an independent holiday with us.
Walking App
Your Route Manager can provide you with a link to download an app to your smartphone. This app provides the GPS track for your route on your phone. You can use this digital support to find your position and navigate the route, even without an internet connection or mobile phone reception.
Accommodation & Meals
The hotels we stay in are characteristic of the area and the towns we visit.
All evening meals are included and are taken either in the hotel or in local restaurants. At dinner, the Tour Manager will tell you about each evening’s menu and if there is anything else that you would prefer, you only have to ask. There are no particular dress requirements in the restaurants we use, although some are obviously smarter than others.
Each day the Tour Manager will meet you with one of ATG’s celebrated picnic lunches. You will be greeted with mineral water and a starter followed by wine and an abundant lunch of local organic produce and specialities. Picnics are colourful, varied and nutritious. Buffet-style, there is a choice of meats, cheeses, substantial salads, bread and fruit…and pudding. If it is cold there will be a hot dish.
Food & Wine
The cuisine of Umbria has much in common with that of Tuscany, as both share the same hilly, wooded and pastoral landscape which gives rise to such produce as lamb, sheep’s cheeses (pecorino), cured meats (usually pork) and game – wild pigeon, partridge and pheasant being the most common. Umbria is landlocked, so its supply of fish comes from its many rivers, or from Lake Trasimeno. Umbria has another, much valued product that is used in many of the region’s dishes: the black truffle, which is found in the oak woods of the area.
Wine production in Umbria has never been a significant part of the region’s agriculture – which is not to say that interesting wines are not grown here. The wines of Orvieto are well-known, but in the northern part of Umbria, in the province of Perugia, is Torgiano, home of Umbria’s first DOC wine. Other wines grown around this area include Colli di Trasimeno (a dry white) and Colli Altotiberini, the best of which is its rosato (rosé). We aim to match the wines to the style of the restaurant and the cuisine provided, and to sample local wines whenever possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Escorted trips are accompanied by two of ATG’s fully trained Tour Consultants, from the moment they welcome you at the airport, through to the end-of trip airport transfer. The Tour Manager looks after the practical side of the trip – luggage transport, hotels, food and drink. The Tour Leader will lead each day’s walk, and after dinner each evening will tell you about the following day’s itinerary. Both Tour Consultants will explain their role, and how the trip will run, on the first evening at dinner.
Please let us know about any dietary restrictions or allergies in advance so that our Tour Consultants can ensure that you are catered for during your holiday. Most dietary restrictions do not present a problem on our trips and the Tour Manager can discuss your requirements in more detail with you at the start of your trip.
The walks are graded according to difficulty but you can walk as much or as little as you like.
Easy: walking along well-established paths and tracks with some short ascents/descents. These trips are suitable for most people who enjoy occasional exercise.
Easy to Moderate: walking along well-established paths and tracks. Occasional loose (gravel) surfaces. Ascents/descents up to 1 hour. These trips are suitable for most people who have a reasonable level of fitness.
Moderate: walking along a variety of paths and tracks. Occasional uneven areas. Ascents/descents 1-2 hours. These trips are suitable for those who have a reasonable to good level of fitness.
Moderate to Challenging: walking along varied paths and surfaces, occasionally challenging, with ascents/descents of 2-3 hours. These trips are suitable for more experienced walkers who have a good level of fitness.
Single travellers will be booked into a double room which will carry a single occupancy supplement.
Flights are not included in the price of your ATG holiday and should be booked independently. We will advise you of the group meeting time at the destination airport and return transfer time to the airport at the end of your trip to enable you to book compatible flights.
Yes. All of our escorted trips can be booked privately, you can book a set departure or a date to suit you (subject to availability). In most instances if the group is 13-16 clients we will offer the trip at the published price. For 12 or fewer clients we would provide a bespoke costing.
On escorted trips everything is included (per the published itinerary) apart from items of a personal nature and snacks or drinks outside of the set meals.
We are delighted to book extensions for you at either end of your trip. We only book hotels with which we have an established relationship and where we can ensure a high level of service and enjoyment. If you would like an extension hotel booking please indicate this during the booking process and we will contact you with pricing information.
ATG does not provide any form of insurance cover. However, it is a condition of booking that you have fully comprehensive insurance cover, including:
Cancellation/curtailment up to the cost of the holiday (preferably including flights)
Medical emergencies and repatriation
Travel delay / missed departure
Lost or stolen personal belongings
Personal liability
Legal expenses
Natural Disasters
Although most credit card companies offer travel insurance as something that is included when paying the balance with the card, it may be advisable to check that the cover offered is what you expect it to be. Very few companies include cancellation and curtailment or medical expenses. Whatever the insurance policy you have taken out, please read the documentation carefully. Please ensure also that you take it with you on your trip and refer to it in the case of any claim or emergency.
Yes, please click here for what to bring. A packing checklist is also included with your booking confirmation.
Sustainability
ATG was founded on principles of conservation and sustainable development. It was the first company to win the tourism industry’s two top awards: Tourism for Tomorrow (UK) and the World Legacy Award (National Geographic and Conservation International USA) and also the first to have an accredited Environmental Management System.
Everyone who walks with ATG contributes to the ATG Trust, which funds projects that benefit local communities in the regions visited. By supporting these initiatives, ATG promotes sustainable tourism. Past projects have included heritage restoration projects, environmental conservation and educational projects.
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