Overview

Italy’s artistic and cultural influence is unparalleled, and Tuscany is its crown jewel. This tour takes you through Florence, Pisa, Siena, Lucca, San Gimignano, and more, showcasing world-famous art, stunning medieval villages, and breathtaking countryside.

• Visit the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery in Florence
• Marvel at Michelangelo’s David and the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• Stroll through the medieval towns of San Gimignano and Volterra
• Experience authentic Tuscan cuisine and fine wines in the Chianti region
• Explore the grandeur of Siena’s Campo Square and its majestic cathedral

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Arrival in Florence

• Arrive in Florence and transfer to your hotel.
• Stay for three nights at either:
  • Hotel Corona D’Italia (3-star superior), located in the San Lorenzo district, a short walk from Florence’s Cathedral.
  • Grand Hotel Mediterraneo (4-star), overlooking the River Arno, close to Piazza Santa Croce.
• Breakfast included.

Day 2: Florence & The Uffizi Gallery

• Guided walking tour of Florence, including:
  • The Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo)
  • The Baptistry, one of Florence’s oldest buildings
  • The Ponte Vecchio, lined with historic goldsmith shops
• Reserved visit to the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Titian, Rembrandt, and Van Dyck.

Day 3: Lucca & Pisa

• Morning visit to Lucca, birthplace of Puccini:
  • Walk along its medieval ramparts
  • Visit Lucca Cathedral, known for its intricate façade
• Travel to Pisa to see:
  • The Leaning Tower of Pisa
  • The Cathedral of Pisa and the Baptistry
• Return to Florence for the evening.

Day 4: Free Morning in Florence & Wine Tasting

• Enjoy a free morning to explore Florence:
  • Visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David
  • Explore Florence’s Archaeological Museum and Science Museum
  • Admire Galileo’s telescopes and Renaissance inventions
• Afternoon Chianti wine-tasting tour at Foresteria Villa Cerna, one of the renowned Cecchi estates.
• Transfer to a carefully selected four-star hotel in the Tuscan countryside for four nights. Options include:
  • Park Hotel Le Fonti, set on the edge of Volterra with spectacular countryside views.
  • Palazzo San Lorenzo, located in the historic town of Colle di Val d’Elsa, featuring a winter garden and local specialty restaurant.
  • Hotel Il Piccolo Castello, situated near Monteriggioni with a central garden and Tuscan-style décor.
• Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 5: San Gimignano & Volterra

• Explore the Tuscan countryside, passing rolling hills, cypress trees, and historic farmhouses.
• Visit San Gimignano, famous for its thirteen medieval towers and well-preserved streets.
• Continue to Volterra, a dramatic hilltop town known for its:
  • Stone ramparts and medieval architecture
  • Alabaster craftsmanship, with artisan shops showcasing their work
  • Archaeological museum featuring Etruscan artifacts
• Free time in the evening to soak in the local atmosphere.

Day 6: Siena

• Visit Siena, one of the finest medieval cities in the world.
• Guided tour of the city, including:
  • The Piazza del Campo, a unique shell-shaped square lined with historic buildings and cafes
  • Siena Cathedral, built from black and white marble, featuring intricate carvings and artwork by Michelangelo
  • The city’s medieval streets, still preserving their centuries-old charm
• Free time in the afternoon for personal exploration.

Day 7: Free Day in Tuscany

• Enjoy a day at leisure to relax or explore at your own pace.
• Options include:
  • A stroll through a local village
  • Relaxing at the hotel pool
  • Sampling local food and wine in a traditional trattoria

Day 8: Return Flight

• Transfer to the airport for the return flight home.

Accommodation Highlights

Hotel Corona D’Italia (3-star superior) – Florence

• Centrally located in the San Lorenzo district
• Comfortable rooms with modern amenities

Grand Hotel Mediterraneo (4-star) – Florence

• Overlooks the River Arno, near historic sites
• Choice of restaurants and a summer terrace

Park Hotel Le Fonti (4-star) – Volterra

• Converted from an old farmhouse
• Panoramic terrace with countryside views

Palazzo San Lorenzo (4-star) – Colle di Val d’Elsa

• Set in the historic center of town
• Features a beautiful winter garden and a local restaurant

Hotel Il Piccolo Castello (4-star) – Monteriggioni

• Surrounded by gardens with traditional Tuscan décor
• Spacious lounge and a relaxing atmosphere

Extras & Upgrades

• Optional guided tour of Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia Gallery
• Additional wine tastings and cooking experiences available
• Door-to-door transfers upon request