Weekend in Chianciano Terme

The main square with a 1920s colonnade, a small church, and the old town hall. Wandering the narrow side streets reveals medieval arches and a few quiet courtyards.

Tip: Look for the drinking fountain on the north side of the square – it runs good quality thermal water, free for anyone.

A public thermal foot bath area outside the main Terme di Chianciano complex. Warm, mineral-rich water flows through stone channels where you can soak your feet for free.

Tip: Bring a towel and flip-flops. Early morning is quietest; after 10am it gets busy with locals. The water stays at around 34°C all year.

A contemporary sculpture park spread across woodland paths. Works by local and international artists sit among olive groves and oak trees. Benches and picnic spots with valley views.

Tip: Go late afternoon for the best light on the sculptures. The path to the far edge gives a clear view of Lake Chiusi.

A flat, paved cycling and walking path following an old drainage canal through farmland. Runs about 60 km from Chianciano to the Tyrrhenian coast, but the first few kilometres through open fields are

Tip: Hire a bike from the shop near the train station in Chiusi (5 km away). The stretch just south of Chianciano passes a small birdwatching hide – good for spotting herons at dawn.

A small museum with Etruscan artefacts including funerary urns, bronze tools, and ceramics from local tombs. Housed in a Renaissance palazzo with a courtyard garden.

Tip: Entry is on the cheap side. The basement has a well-preserved Etruscan cinerary urn labelled with a clear English description that's easy to miss – ask the attendant.