With this private excursion you will have the chance to visit two picturesque hill towns: Montepulciano and Cortona. Like many of Tuscany’s hill towns, Montepulciano has its roots in Etruscan times. Today the city is one of the best known in the area and for good reasons. The area around the city produces excellent wine, and the city is best known for Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, a fresh, bright red wine made predominantly from Sangiovese grapes.  The charming Piazza Grande is also home to the Palazzo Comunale and the city’s cathedral. You can climb the tower of the Town Hall (or take the elevator) to admire the view of the city and surrounding countryside. Departing from Montepulciano, you will travel approximately 45 minutes to Cortona. Perched high overlooking the Chiana Valley, this Roman-walled town offers some spectacular views. Increasingly popular with tourists since the release of the novel and film ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’, this medieval labyrinth is still a great place explore. Exploring Cortona, a visit to the Museo Diocesano allows visitors to admire works by Pietro da Cortona, Fra’Angelico and Luca Signorelli. For the best views, head to the highest point in town, taking the steep walk up to the Fortezza del Girifalco. At the end of your time touring Cortona, you will meet your driver and return to your hotel. Please pay close attention to the drop-off point and the pre-arranged meeting time so there are issues meeting your driver after visiting each town. Depending on the day and your preferences, the towns can be visited in the reverse order.