In March 2024, I went on a 8-day road trip to Tuscany, Italy, in a motorhome from WebCamper Luxembourg – a dream finally realized! We began our journey in Luxembourg, traveling through Florence, Siena, Pienza, and the Val d’Orcia, before reaching the thermal springs of Cascate del Mulino in Saturnia, southern Tuscany. In this article, I’ll share insights into life in a camper and tips for an unforgettable stay in the region.
Here’s a glimpse of our itinerary:
- Day 1: Departure from Luxembourg, arriving in Florence
- Day 2: Exploring Florence
- Day 3: More of Florence and then off to Siena
- Day 4: Discovering Siena and the Val d’Orcia countryside
- Day 5: Visiting Pienza
- Day 6: Leaving Pienza for the thermal springs in Saturnia
- Day 7: Departing Saturnia for Pisa, visiting Pisa
- Day 8: Return journey home
Everything about camper life:
General information about Tuscany
Tuscany owes its name to its pre-Roman inhabitants, the Etruscans. Following the Roman Empire’s demise, the area became known as Tuscany (Toscana in Italian), undergoing numerous changes in rulership. By the Middle Ages, cities like Pisa, Siena, Arezzo, Pistoia, Lucca, and Florence had flourished due to their involvement in textile manufacturing, trade, banking, and agriculture. Despite the prosperity, territorial and power conflicts were common. Florence, however, rose to prominence above the rest. The 15th century marked the ascendancy of the Medici family, heralding a golden age of arts and literature and the birth of the Renaissance. Tuscany’s landscape, largely unaltered over centuries, features medieval villages perched atop misty hills, with lush valleys and cypress trees dotting the scenery below.
When is the best time to visit Tuscany?
Although Tuscany comes alive with sunflowers and fruit trees in summer, the season also brings crowds and soaring temperatures. For a more serene experience and to witness Tuscany’s verdant fields, consider visiting between March and May or from late September to October. These periods offer vibrant landscapes and pleasant weather, with spring temperatures ranging from 17°C to 23°C and autumn temperatures from 20°C to 26°C. Autumn is particularly enchanting as the harvest season transforms the rolling hills into a kaleidoscope of reds and golds.
How to prepare for a camping trip in a motorhome
1. Make a reservation in advance
Securing a campsite without a prior reservation can be stressful. To avoid this, make reservations ahead of time through websites like park4night.com recreation.gov. Park4night is particularly helpful for finding spots to camp for the night, park for city visits, locate amenities for your camper life, and ensure safety.
2. Check the campsite amenities
Campgrounds vary significantly in terms of amenities. Before you book, find out if the campsite offers potable water, bathrooms with showers, dishwashing facilities, firewood for purchase, and if there are any fire restrictions. This information is usually available on the booking site, but if not, contact the campground directly. Opting for a campsite with at least a 4-star rating is highly recommended.
3. Check-in in a campsite in Italy
Unlike in other countries such as Switzerland, where campsite check-in times are typically restricted to certain hours (for example, until 15:00 or 22:00), in Italy, you have the flexibility to check into camping sites at any hour. This was a notable convenience during our travels.
4. Plan your meals
Decide on the number of meals you’ll cook and what you’d like to eat. Make a grocery list to ensure you have all necessary ingredients before leaving. This approach prevents the last-minute rush and the likelihood of forgetting something important.
5. Organize your equipment
For a comfortable and hassle-free stay at a campsite, consider packing the following essentials:
- Barbecue and tongs
- Camping chairs and table
- Lamp and flashlight
- Hammock
- Bedding (pillows, pillowcases, sheets, spare blanket)
- Picnic and chair cushions
- Cleaning supplies (dustpan and brush, tablecloth)
- Firepit with wood
- Laundry supplies (washline with pegs, laundry basket)
- Pocket knife
- Rain gear (coats, rain fly for tents, tarps)
Additionally, don’t forget a bathrobe and slippers for shower facilities, and a torch for connecting cables at night. For a personalized checklist, REI’s Family Camping Checklist (https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/family-camping-checklist.html) is a great resource.
6. Motorhome manual
Never put fuel in the freshwater tank
Mistaking the fuel filler for the water tank filler is a common error. Fuel tanks usually have black or yellow caps, whereas freshwater tanks have white or blue caps. If you mix these up, you’ll need to drain and clean the tanks appropriately.
Know your weight limits
Adding items to your motorhome increases its payload. Exceeding the legal weight limit can void your insurance. With a Class B driver’s license, you’re allowed to drive a motorhome up to 7m in length and 3,500 kg.
Understanding your motorhome’s electrical system
In most motorhomes, the 230V electrical outlets only function when connected to an external power source. It’s essential to avoid using high-power appliances like hairdryers, microwaves, toasters, and kettles simultaneously to prevent overloading the campsite’s electrical supply. This is a fundamental principle of motorhome living. Consider acquiring a gas kettle for use on a gas stove, enabling you to make tea or coffee while off-grid, such as during wild camping or while parked for a lunch break. To prevent draining your battery, which powers most of your electrical devices, monitor your energy usage carefully, especially when not connected to a mains hookup. Understanding and managing your 12V usage is crucial. Familiarize yourself with your fuse box and carry spare fuses for emergencies.
Managing your resources
Embracing the van life means being mindful of your consumption of fuel, gas, and water. These resources are used more cautiously than in a stationary home. Always refill your supplies whenever possible and keep your gas bottles filled regularly for necessity.
Stay warm by getting to know your motorhome’s heating controls before setting off. Ensure your diesel or LPG tanks and gas bottles are full to avoid running out of heat unexpectedly. Gas bottles come in blue for butane and orange for propane.
Taking short hot showers
Unlike at home, where you might take long showers, in a motorhome, conserve water by taking quick showers to avoid depleting both the hot water and the freshwater supply. We had just 15 minutes of hot water before having to wait another 30 minutes. Alternatively, using the campsite’s shower facilities with flip-flops is an option.
Carrying an extra gas bottle
If space allows, bring an additional gas bottle for peace of mind. Running out of gas mid-cooking can be frustrating and wasteful. While one bottle may suffice for short trips, consider two for longer journeys or international travel to ensure you’re always prepared.
DAY 1
Departure from Luxembourg, arriving late in Florence
The navigator had estimated our journey would take approximately 9 hours and 18 minutes; however, in reality, we spent about 13 hours on the road, including breaks, while maintaining an average speed of 110 km/h.
Despite it being a lengthy drive and our first time traveling in a motorhome, we felt extremely safe and comfortable throughout.
DAY 2
Exploring Florence
On our first day in beautiful Tuscany, we started slowly, enjoying a nice breakfast, getting to know our motorhome better, and checking out what the campsite had to offer. Later in the day, we took the campsite’s shuttle to get to the center of Florence, because no trip to Tuscany is complete without visiting its famous capital. Florence is a breathtaking city, filled with amazing buildings, churches, and art galleries at every turn, offering endless sights like the Uffizi, the Duomo, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge, not to mention the chance to shop at stores of famous designers who started here back in the 1920s and local craftspeople who make everything from gold jewelry to shoes.
What to see in Florence in two days
1. Accademia Gallery
This place is a must-visit for seeing the best sculpture in the world, Michelangelo’s David; it’s a smaller museum but it’s all about quality, not quantity, showcasing amazing artworks including its star attraction.
2. Uffizi Gallery
Known as the top art museum in Florence, it’s home to an incredible collection of Italian Renaissance art, in a building that was originally designed to be offices for the Medici family back in the 16th century, and now it attracts millions of visitors every year, all eager to see the birthplace of the Renaissance up close.
3. Ponte Vecchio
This medieval bridge is not just a way to cross the river; it’s a historic landmark with jewelry shops built right into its sides.
4. The Duomo and Brunelleschi’s Dome
The iconic Florence Cathedral, right in the city’s heart, is hard to miss and offers an insight into the distinct Tuscan/Florentine architectural style with its vibrant green and white marble. Climbing the dome provides a spectacular view and a peek into history, including the dramatic story of the Medici and the Pazzi family.
5. Gates of Paradise (Bronze Doors)
Right in front of the Florence Cathedral is the Baptistry of St. John, famous for its bronze doors that took 27 years to complete, a masterpiece that tells a rich history all on its own.
6. Dine at Mercato Centrale
The central market of Florence is a bustling mix of food vendors selling everything from sandwiches to fresh meat and even beeswax, spread over two distinct floors.
7. Florence from the Arno
The city has its own version of water taxis, known as barchetti, offering a stunning perspective on Florence, much like Venice’s gondolas but with a Florentine twist.
8. The Brancacci Chapel
Not a museum but a chapel that feels like stepping into a place of profound historical importance, named after the silk merchant who commissioned its creation.
9. Sip wine from an ancient wine door
These wine doors are a fascinating piece of Florence’s history, dating back to the 1500s when nobles sold wine directly through these doors, which became especially popular during the plague as a way to minimize contact.
10. Sunset in Piazzale Michelangelo
For one of those iconic views of Florence and the Duomo that you see in photos, head to Piazzale Michelangelo, especially at sunset for breathtaking views.
11. The Abbey of San Miniato al Monte
Going just a bit higher than Piazzale Michelangelo, this abbey offers not just incredible views but also a chance to see one of the most beautiful religious sites in the city.
12. Walk through the garden of the iris
If you’re in Florence from late April to mid-May, don’t miss this garden; it’s not just a beautiful spot with irises and olive trees, but it’s also a way to experience the local flora and have a fantastic view of the city, all while surrounded by the delightful scent of flowers.
DAY 3
More of Florence and then off to Siena
After checking out, we left our camper in the parking lot at the campsite, eager to dive back into the wonders of Florence for a second day. There’s a richness to this city that truly requires at least two days to begin to appreciate fully. This way, you can take your time, try out different places to eat, and really live in the moment.
Later that day, we made our way to Siena, driving for about an hour and a half. We found a cozy campsite in Monti, not too far from Siena, about half an hour away. Even though we got there after the reception had closed for the day, we didn’t run into any trouble finding a spot for our camper and getting it connected to the power supply.
DAY 4
Discovering Siena and the Val d’Orcia countryside
First stop: Siena
Our morning in Monti began peacefully as we enjoyed breakfast and tended to the camper’s needs – emptying the grey water, refilling with fresh water, and clearing out the toilet. After these tasks were completed, we checked out of the Monti campsite and headed towards Siena. We found a parking lot 1.5 kilometers from Siena’s center, predominantly used for buses but also offering a few spaces for motorhomes. Normally, a walk from this lot to the city center would take around 30 minutes. However, electric escalators located just a 10-minute walk from where we parked significantly shortened our journey, taking us directly up to the city and reducing our walk to merely 15 minutes.
Interesting facts about Siena
Siena is a big town on a hill in Tuscany, 80km from Florence. There’s a story that Siena was started by Senius and Aschius, who were the sons of Remus and the nephews of Romulus. Romulus and Remus, as babies, were taken care of by a wolf and then grew up with a shepherd, leading to Romulus founding Rome.
Siena used to be a big deal in banking and has the world’s oldest bank, Monte dei Paschi. It also has a very old university that started in 1240. The city center is so special and well-preserved that it’s protected by UNESCO and is a favorite place for tourists to visit.
What you can see in Siena in less than 24 hours
1. Piazza del Campo
This square is shaped like a shell and is surrounded by buildings, making you feel like you’re getting a big hug. It’s famous for the Palio di Siena horse race that happens twice a year. There’s also a big fountain, Fonte Gaia, with a copy of the original sculptures made from stronger marble.
2. Climb the Torre del Mangia
This tower is really tall, about 87 meters, and has over 400 steps. It’s a bit of a workout to get up there, but the view from the top is amazing. If you’re also visiting the Civic Museum, get a combo ticket for both.
3. Piazza del Duomo
This area has lots of things to see, like the Cathedral, the Crypt, and the Piccolomini Library, which are all packed with art and history. There’s a new tour called “The Door of Heaven” that lets you see the Cathedral from above.
4. The Baptistery
It’s dedicated to St. John and has a lot of art inside, including a famous baptismal font made by top sculptors like Donatello.
5. Museo dell’Opera del Duomo
This museum has original statues from the Cathedral and other important artworks, including a famous window and altarpiece.
6. Santa Maria della Scala
An old hospital that took care of pilgrims, the poor, and abandoned kids. It’s right across from the Duomo and has a lot of art and sometimes special exhibits.
7. Fonte Gaia
A big fountain in Piazza del Campo, finished in 1342, that brought water from far away.
8. Explore the historic heart of Siena
Walking around the city’s old streets is a great way to see it. There are lots of smaller squares, cafes, shops, and restaurants to discover.
9. City Gates
Siena is surrounded by medieval walls with gates that used to be the main entrances into the city, and many are still used today.
Second stop: Val d’Orcia
On our way to Pienza, we stopped multiple times in the picturesque Val d’Orcia region, which is roughly an hour’s drive from Siena and merely 20 minutes away from Pienza. After witnessing what could easily be described as the most stunning sunset in all of Tuscany, we continued our journey to Pienza, where we spent two nights.
When I think of Tuscany, the immediate image that springs to mind is a boundless stretch of golden hills dotted with lines of cypress trees. The beauty of Val d’Orcia is something I find myself struggling to fully capture in words, and I deeply regret not spending more time there. I would earnestly recommend dedicating at least two days to exploring this area. The valley is dotted with picturesque medieval villages like Pienza, San Quirico d’Orcia, and Monticchiello. This region is also celebrated for producing the renowned Brunello di Montalcino wine, near the majestic Sant’Antimo Abbey. Moreover, the area has thermal baths that have been used since Roman times, with the romantic town of Bagno Vignoni featuring a large thermal bath right in its central square.
Here are the most picturesque places to take pictures in Val d’Orcia:
1. Agriturismo Baccoleno
It is famed for its winding entrance road, offering a captivating introduction to the estate. The best views of this road are enjoyed from the nearby hills, where parking is conveniently available close to the north entrance. Remember, drone flying is restricted here since it’s private land. If you’re considering a stay in Val d’Orcia, Baccoleno offers excellent accommodation.
2. Agriturismo Poggio Covili
This spot is well-known for its frequent appearance on postcards, drawing photographers to the long line of cypress trees leading to its entrance. The best shots of Agriturismo Poggio Covili are taken from higher up, and luckily, you can easily park your car on the road nearby to get the perfect angle.
3. Bosco di Cipressi
At first glance, this cypress forest at the top of a hill might not seem like much, but it’s actually a favorite among photographers looking for that quintessential Tuscan shot.
4. Cappella della Madonna di Vitaleta
This charming little chapel, framed by two cypress trees, is one of the most snapped churches in Tuscany.
5. Via Crete Senesi
Near Asciano lies Crete Senesi, translating to the Clays of Siena, a picturesque landscape south of Siena characterized by its bare, grey soil and rounded hills, evoking images of desert dunes.
6. The Elysian Fields
As depicted in the final scene of the movie Gladiator where Maximus Decimus Meridius, portrayed by Russell Crowe, walks through the wheat fields into the afterlife, was filmed in Val d’Orcia, just a few kilometers outside Pienza. This picturesque setting was chosen by Ridley Scott as the embodiment of the Roman’s Paradise, making it a must-visit for fans and those curious about the real-life location of these iconic cinematic moments.
7. Pienza
Known as the heart of Val d’Orcia, Pienza is a medieval town that caught the eye of filmmakers and was featured in The Gladiator. Famous for its Pecorino di Pienza cheese, the town is surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of the Tuscan hills.
8. Monticchiello
Close to Pienza, Monticchiello is a lesser-known medieval town perched on a hill, with stunning views over the valley. It’s often referred to as the terrace of Val d’Orcia. Don’t miss the Monticchiello Punto Panoramico and Cipressi di Monticchiello for some of the best vistas in the region.
9. Biancane di Leonina
It is known as the Accona desert because it gets darker when wet and turns white under the sun’s heat. Despite being called a desert, the area is dotted with bushes and small trees, making it a popular spot for hikers with several trails crisscrossing through it.
DAY 5
Visiting Pienza
Interesting facts about Pienza
Pienza is a quaint town nestled in the Val d’Orcia region, down in the southern part of Tuscany, not too far from other notable places – it’s 15 kilometers from Montepulciano, 20 from Montalcino, and about 50 kilometers from Siena.
The town’s name is tied to Pope Pius II, born here, with “Pienza” meaning “the city of Pius”. When Enea Silvio Piccolomini became Pope Pius II in 1458, he dreamt of turning his hometown, previously the little-known village of Corsignano, into a model of Renaissance beauty. To achieve this, he enlisted Bernardo Rossellino, an architect who had worked alongside Leon Battista Alberti (the mind behind Santa Maria Novella’s façade), aiming to rebuild Pienza based on the ideals of humanist design. They started building over the old village around 1459, and in just about four years, they crafted a well-balanced town from the 15th century. Sadly, Pope Pius II passed away too soon, halting further changes to the city, which has mostly stayed the same since those times.
For those who love cheese, Pienza throws a big celebration for one of its star products, pecorino cheese, every first Sunday in September. Known as the “capital” of pecorino cheese, Pienza’s version is highly prized, mainly because it’s made from the milk of sheep grazed in the lush pastures of Val d’Orcia, resulting in an exceptionally tasty and fragrant cheese.
What to see and do in Pienza
In Pienza, there’s a lot to see and do, making it a treasure trove of Renaissance architecture and charming vistas:
1. The Cathedral
Standing on the site of an older church, the cathedral showcases a Renaissance façade divided by arched columns and features an octagonal bell tower inspired by those Pope Pius II admired in Germany. Inside, you’ll find altar paintings from the Sienese School and a neighboring baptistery.
2. The Crypt and Labrinth
Beneath the cathedral lies the crypt of San Giovanni with its noteworthy baptismal font by Rossellino, alongside Flemish tapestries and remnants of the medieval Santa Maria church. A network of narrow, brick tunnels, known as the “labyrinth”, lies below, originally serving as drainage for the cathedral.
3. Corso Il Rossellino
This main street slices through Pienza’s heart, from Porta al Prato to Porta al Ciglio, and is just a five-minute walk from end to end. It’s lined with alleys that lead to eateries, shops, and scenic spots.
4. Piazza Pio II
Reimagined by Rossellino, this square is bordered by the cathedral and three palaces – one for governance, one for the bishop, and one for Pope Pius II, marking Pienza as a special preserved Renaissance town center.
- Palazzo Piccolomini: Rossellino’s crown jewel faces the cathedral and features a three-arched loggia.
- Palazzo Borgia (Palazzo Vescovile): Once a gift to Cardinal Rodrigo Borgia, now hosts the Diocesan Museum with its collection of local textiles and religious items.
- Palazzo Comunale: The town hall, distinguished by its loggia and a brick bell tower, symbolizes the church’s supremacy through its shorter tower.
5. Walk the City Walls
A path along the southern walls offers breathtaking views over the Val d’Orcia and Pienza’s architecture. The most picturesque part stretches from the cathedral to Porta al
6. Visit Chiesa San Francesco
This church predates Pienza’s renovation by Pope Pius II and is adorned with 14th-century frescoes.
7. Gladiator Viewpoint
Near Agriturismo Terrapille, this viewpoint gained fame from its appearance in “The Gladiator”. The path to this iconic spot, where Russell Crowe’s character dreams of his home, is a 10-minute walk downhill, promising stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
DAY 6
Leaving Pienza for the thermal springs in Saturnia
In the morning at the campsite, we enjoyed our breakfast and got our motorhome ready for the trip to Saturnia to spend the day soaking in the famous “Cascate di Mulino” hot thermal springs. Saturnia is about a two-hour drive from Pienza.
First, I would recommend to visit the town of Saturnia
Saturnia is a charming small town perched on a hill overlooking the thermal springs. It has an ancient history, with roots stretching back to pre-classical Greece, as noted by a Greek historian in 60 BC. The Etruscans and Romans left their mark here too, evidenced by the Porta Romana dating from the 2nd century B.C.
Then, relax at the Hot Springs “Cascate di Mulino”
Renowned for their mineral-rich waters bubbling up through the Earth in an area extending from Mount Amiata to various Tuscan hills. These waters, rich in sulfur, have a distinctive smell but are celebrated for their therapeutic and relaxing qualities, believed by the Etruscans and Romans to be divine gifts.
The springs are said to have been created where Jupiter’s thunderbolt struck in a mythological battle, leaving behind steamy, smelly water. Over time, locals built a well-maintained resort around these healing waters, including the luxurious Terme di Saturnia Spa & Golf Resort, but there are also two free natural waterfalls, Cascate del Mulino and Cascate del Gorello, available to the public year-round.
Preparing for a day at the hot springs
- They are open to the public and free throughout the entire year, any time, day or night.
- There are no public changing rooms, so wearing your swimsuit under your clothes is advisable.
- Parking is free but is limited, especially during peak season, so arriving early might save you the hassle. Since motorhomes taller than 2.5 meters aren’t allowed in the parking area close to the hot springs, we found a spot a little further down the road to park.
- The area has no lifeguards, so visitors need to clean up after themselves.
- Wearing water shoes is recommended due to the gravelly and sandy surroundings.
- Don’t forget to bring a towel, sunscreen, and your own food and drinks, as the local bar offers limited options.
- While the springs are no secret and can get crowded, following the flow of water can lead you to quieter spots for a more serene experience.
DAY 7
Departing Saturnia for Pisa & visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Our adventure is almost over. We’re about 12 hours away from Luxembourg, so we decided to make a quick stop to see the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa since it’s on our way, and then we’ll spend the night in Milan. This means we’ll have just 7 hours of driving left to get home the next day, making our last stretch a bit easier and giving us a chance to see a bit more of Italy before we head back.
What you need to know about the Piazza dei Miracoli
The Piazza dei Miracoli, or Square of Miracles, more formally known as Piazza del Duomo, is more than just the home of the famous Leaning Tower. It’s a place where you can admire the stunning Duomo and baptistery, both shining examples of Pisan Romanesque architecture. The Monumental Cemetery, with its serene central courtyard and 14th-century frescoes, along with the Opera del Duomo Museum and its collection of religious art, are also part of this beautiful square.
Being one of Tuscany’s top spots, it’s packed with visitors in the summer. The best time to visit is early in the morning before it gets too crowded, as from late morning through the afternoon, it’s usually packed with daily tourists. To skip the long lines and get fast access to the cathedral, baptistery, and bell tower, it’s wise to book a Piazza dei Miracoli tour in advance. If you’re visiting with family, a Leaning Tower tour designed for kids can make the experience more enjoyable for them, or you could combine your visit with a walking or bike tour to explore more of Pisa.
Even without tickets to enter the cathedral complex, walking around the Piazza dei Miracoli offers great views of the Duomo and Leaning Tower. For those with tickets, there are added conveniences like free restroom access and a cloakroom for bags and luggage.
Moreover, the square is a vast, traffic-free lawn area, making it a safe spot for kids to play and wheelchair-friendly.
While there are many restaurants and cafés lining the perimeter of the square, I’d suggest being cautious as many can be tourist traps. It’s often the case in such popular areas, where the appeal is more about the location than the quality or value of the food.
What to see at Piazza dei Miracoli
The Piazza
At Piazza dei Miracoli, there’s a whole world beyond just an open-air square. This 8.87-hectare walled area boasts significant landmarks including the Pisa Cathedral, the Baptistery of San Giovanni, the Monumental Cemetery, and two museums – the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo and the Museo delle Sinopie. Some parts of the grassy areas are off-limits to protect them, however, there are spots where visitors are welcome to sit.
The Leaning Tower of Pisa
Although the most famous sight, wasn’t the first to be constructed. It started in 1173 as the cathedral’s bell tower and took nearly two centuries to complete due to interruptions from wars. Its infamous tilt, a result of a weak foundation, was stabilized between the 1990s and 2000s without correcting it entirely.
Visitors can explore the ground floor freely, but climbing to the top requires joining a guided tour, which also grants access to the Duomo.
The Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta
The cathedral is a prime example of Pisan Romanesque architecture, reflecting a blend of styles and influences, including Byzantine and Islamic, mirroring the maritime republic’s expansive trade and cultural exchanges. Despite a fire in 1595, many treasures remain, such as Cimabue’s mosaic of St. John the Evangelist and Giovanni Pisano’s pulpit, reassembled in the cathedral after being dismantled.
The Baptistery of San Giovanni
The construction of the Baptistery started in 1152 and it stands as Italy’s largest baptistery. Its construction spanned over centuries, showcasing a blend of Romanesque design initially, with contributions from numerous artists over time. Highlights include Guido Bigarelli da Como’s octagonal baptismal font and Nicola Pisano’s ornate pulpit, showcasing the artistic legacy of the Pisano family.
The Camposanto
Lastly, the Camposanto, or monumental cemetery, believed to be built over holy soil from Calvary, is an enclosed cloister dating back to 1277. It served as the final resting place for Pisa’s elite, adorned with sarcophagi, Roman graves, and a rich collection of art, including works by Giovanni Pisano, Benozzo Gozzoli, and Buonamico Buffalmacco among others, capturing the city’s historical depth and cultural richness.
DAY 8
Return journey home
We woke up in Milan and found a really relaxed campsite that had everything you could want, with about 200 places to park, all thanks to the website I talked about when I first started sharing our journey. Even when we called them late at night, around midnight, they had someone there to answer our call, ready to help 24/7.
Our route back home took us by the beautiful Lake Como, then through Switzerland and the Alsace region in France, leading us all the way back to Luxembourg, the country we love so much.
I want to say a huge thank you to WebCamper for giving us this opportunity and for making it possible for us to see such beautiful parts of Tuscany.
My personal impressions of camper life
Traveling in a camper is an adventure that’s truly one-of-a-kind and something you’ll remember forever, but it’s important to come prepared, especially if you’re someone who loves a bit of luxury and comfort. The freedom you get with a camper, being able to go wherever you want, having all your things with you all the time, avoiding long check-in processes, being able to stop for a nap or a picnic whenever you feel like it, is amazing.
However, it’s good to know that living in a camper also means more chores:
- you’re the one who has to take care of the toilet, doing things like emptying and cleaning it yourself;
- if you need to wash dishes, you’ll likely be walking across the campsite to a communal area to do so;
- sometimes, you might find yourself walking in the rain to get to a shower or the campsite’s toilets, which might not always be as clean or warm as you’d like;
- you have to keep an eye on your supplies, like making sure you have enough water and electricity, and knowing where you can refill these at the campsite;
- since space is limited, the camper can get messy pretty quickly, so you need to tidy everything up before hitting the road to prevent items from getting tossed around or broken;
- and, be prepared for higher fuel costs, as campers are heavy and guzzle a lot of petrol, which for us meant spending around 120 euros each time we filled up.
- Also, depending on how many people are traveling with you, the space inside the camper can start to feel really small pretty quickly.
While it offers a beautiful sense of freedom and simplicity, keeping these points in mind will help ensure your camper adventure is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
