Via Medicea Easy

Arriving in Florence feels like stepping into the cradle of the Renaissance, and how you choose to immerse yourself in its wonders is entirely up to you. Begin your exploration with the iconic landmarks, from the majestic Duomo to the artistic treasures of the Uffizi Gallery, the bustling Piazza della Signoria, and the historic Piazza Santa Croce.

Yet, Florence has more to offer beyond its well-known attractions. Consider wandering through the Oltrarno, where narrow streets unveil artisan workshops and quaint eateries, giving you a glimpse of the city's hidden gems. Savor a dinner at a rustic trattoria, indulging in the authentic flavors that make Florence truly enchanting, even away from the beaten paths.

After breakfast a short transfer will take you to Poggio a Caiano, where the walk starts.

Embark on an enchanting journey from Poggio a Caiano, where the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany unfold before you. As you set forth on foot, let the timeless beauty of the region captivate your senses. Traverse through quaint villages, vineyard-draped hills, and olive groves that whisper tales of centuries past.

The first stage of the Medici Route offers the Medici Villa in Poggio a Caiano.

Your final destination is in Carmignano.

Distance: 6 km

Elevation Gain: +200/-50 m

Today you will walk from Carmignano to Artimino, where the Medici Villa "La Ferdinanda" awaits, nestled amidst the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany.

The UNESCO-recognized Medici Villa "La Ferdinanda" in Artimino stands as a testament to their enduring legacy, showcasing the family's adaptive approach to political, economic, social, and cultural dynamics. Immerse yourself in the evolution of this historic route, experiencing the changes and mutations that reflect the Medici family's profound impact on the Tuscan and Italian landscape during that era.

Distance: 7 km

Elevation Gain: +300/-250 m

A short transfer take you to Bacchereto, where you start today's walk.

As you traverse the ridge of the mountain, you'll be immersed in strips of forest of unparalleled naturalistic significance. Revel in rare panoramic vistas that open up to the expansive basins of Florence and Pistoia, showcasing the harmonious interaction between man and the natural environment. On the southern side, the landscapes stretch from Valdarno di Sotto to Mount Serra, with views extending from the Apuan Alps to the Pistoia Apennines.

The presence of mills near numerous streams descending from the mountain's upper reaches serves as a testament to humanity's historical utilization of hydraulic energy, predating the advent of steam and electricity in the countryside.

Vinci, coupled with the engineering brilliance of Leonardo, stands as the emblematic highlight of this stage along the Medici Route.

Distance: 12 km

Elevation Gain: +420/-620 m

Embark on the fifth stage of the Medici Route, where the landscape unfolds in gentle undulations, weaving through soft hills with a delightful meandering quality. This segment introduces the Medici Villa along the route, the Villa of Cerreto Guidi, proudly recognized as a UNESCO heritage site. This villa represents another pivotal waypoint on the Medici Route, adding a touch of grandeur and historical significance to your journey.

In Cerreto Guidi a brief transfer take you to Empoli. In Empoli take a train to Pisa. 

Distance: 7 km

Elevation Gain: +190/-160 m

Last day included. Tour ends after breakfast.

We work with 3* hotels, B&Bs and farmhouses that reflect our way of experiencing travel: they are comfortable and characterful structures, which we choose one by one, managed by passionate and welcoming people.

Unless otherwise specified in the travel listing, all provide private en-suite rooms with breakfast included.

Below you see some examples of the facilities used for this trip, but keep in mind that they may vary based on availability in the period. We could therefore book for you structures different from those you see listed here, but of the same category and carefully chosen according to SloWays criteria.