On top of the enchanting hills north of Florence lies charming Fiesole, the ancient citadel of the Etruscans, who lived in the Tuscan territory 700 years before the Romans funded the new settlement of Florence. During the Renaissance, when Florence became the dominating centre of the area, the affluent Florentine families chose the pleasant and healthy air of the Fiesole Hills to build their summer residences, sumptuous villas surrounded by luxuriant gardens, that are still scattered all around the gentle landscape.

A short bus ride (30 minutes) along the scenic drive connecting Florence with Fiesole will take us to Piazza Mino, the central square of this lovely town sorrounded by historical buildings: the medieval townhall, the small church of Santa Maria Primerana, the cathedral, the elegant Bishop's residence, and the Seminary from the 17th century. Well worth visiting is the cathedral of Saint Romolus, dating back to the 11th century, with a Romanesque choir and an elegant ancient crypt. A stone’s throw from the cathedral we find one of the oldest Tuscan archeological sites with remains from the Etruscan and Roman time: traces of a temple from the 1st century BC., the Roman theatre with 3000 seats which is still used in the summer for cultural events, the ancient Roman thermal baths and the imposing Etruscan town walls. Here you will find the perfect environment to learn about the roots of the Tuscan civilization.

A short hike leads to the picturesque Franciscan Monastery on the highest point of the Fiesole Hill. From its terrace a breathtaking view sweeps across the entire Florentine basin. A fine Italian coffee or a delicious ice cream in the main square is the perfect conclusion to this lovely trip.