The course did loops at the beginning and end on a path along the top of the old city walls. Most of the course though is out in the countryside and through small villages nearby. It is a mostly flat course. It seems that the runners here are all serious ones and most the the course the people were fairly series although part of that could have been due to the constant and slightly cold rain. The amount of runners seemed like a good size to me never felling very crowded but usually being around or seeing others during the run. Getting two and from the start/finish line could be a more difficult for some-good thing I had a local Italian that made things much easier for me. There was not many spectators and many Italian drivers near the course were obviously not happy about a marathon being there. I think it was a good race and definately worth considering if you want to do a race in Italy/Toscany area.

This is typical of many races in Italy. The organization is suprisingly good for a relatively small marathon (700 participants). Inscription fee only ¬25. Nice t shirt. Changing facilities and your bag is kept safe during the race. The first six km are on the fortifications of this beautiful city then through the old town into the country. You run through the villages of the surrounding areas then back into the old town and the fortifications for the last six km and finish in Plaza napoleone. This is picture postcard Tuscany. Great restaurants in town too.