Florence & Tuscany: Art, Cuisine, and Wine in Italy's Renaissance Heart

Upon your arrival in Florence reach the hotel on your own and check in (transfer available as an optional extra). In the afternoon, join a small group tour (the tour starts at 13.00 hrs and 16.00 hrs). Meet your guide to enter the Accademia Gallery Museum with a fast-track priority entrance ticket and discover the original Michelangelo masterpiece that has become the symbol of Renaissance splendor, the David. Admire it from every perspective, gaze in awe at David that dominates the central gallery of the museum. The 5.17 meters tall David was sculpted by a very young Michelangelo entirely from a single block of local Carrara marble. It represents the biblical hero David that killed Goliath and when it was unveiled, in 1504, it soon became a symbol of the defence of the civil liberties embodied in the Florentine Republic. The Accademia Gallery also houses many other masterpieces, both paintings and sculptures, from the Middle Ages to Renaissance, by the greatest artists, like Botticelli, Paolo Uccello, and many more.

Overnight in Florence.

After breakfast enjoy a small group tour to visit the beautiful city of Florence and its must, the Uffizi Gallery.

The first part of the tour is devoted to the heart of Florence - its historic center with its wonderful squares and landmarks. Start with an enlightening walking tour led by a local guide, who will unveil the secrets of the city, from local legends to interesting facts. The tour finishes inside the world-famous Uffizi Gallery. Admire the unique Renaissance masterpieces of great Italian artists and celebrate the intricate beauty of works such as Botticelli's “Birth of Venus”, Leonardo's “Annunciation”, and Michelangelo's “Tondo Doni.” At the end of the guided tour, you can remain in the Uffizi Gallery or go out for lunch to taste all the delicious dishes of Florentine cuisine (own expense).

In the late evening join a small group to visit the Duomo. Entering with a skip-the-line ticket, with your passionate guide first focus on Florence Duomo: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, which is also often considered the symbol of the city. Discover masterpieces such as Paolo Uccello’s clock, Vasari’s frescoes and Bandinelli’s marble choir. Then, begin your ascent to Florence Heaven: the staircase climb, through narrow and open air corridors that have been closed to the public for centuries, will be rewarded by an incomparable view of the city from the Duomo Terraces, on the cathedral rooftop. A skywalk that will feel like floating between the city landscape, with its ancient roofs and towers, and the imposing Dome standing just a few meters above your head. This is an exclusive visit to the Terraces, which are normally not open to the public. Then, if you feel like continuing your climb, you can reach the top of Brunelleschi's Cupola. Skipping the endless long lines, you will have the opportunity to reach the 91-metre-high panoramic viewpoint for the highest level of this Florentine Heaven and breathtaking views. Take your time and enjoy an unforgettable sunset above the city. 

Overnight in Florence.

After breakfast at the hotel reach the meeting point to enjoy a day trip to the Tuscany Countryside area.

The first stop will be Monteriggioni, with its ancient walls still perfectly intact. As you stroll through the rustic streets, you will feel as though you are travelling through time into the Renaissance era. Enjoy a more modern espresso or cappuccino before heading to your next destination! Your tour will continue to the symbolic town of Siena, famous for its splendid examples of Gothic architecture and its Palio horse race, an annual tradition. Follow your local guide to the intriguing Piazza del Campo, where the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico and Torre del Mangia stand. Next, head to Piazza del Duomo and admire the imposing Cathedral, one of the finest achievements of Italian Gothic architecture. Before leaving Siena, enjoy some free time to explore its historic centre at your leisure. Next, head to San Gimignano, famous for its white wine - the world-renowned Vernaccia, and its skyscrapers, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO! Enjoy some free time for independent sightseeing, strolling around the narrow streets, and admiring the beautiful, panoramic landscapes from the hilltop viewpoints. Finally, spend some time in the heart of Chianti, with its picture-perfect landscapes. After learning the secrets of the Chianti wine production process from the expert owner of the wine estate, indulge in a tasting of the high-quality wines, local snacks, and fresh olive oils.

Overnight in Florence.

Enjoy your last breakfast in Florence and if time permits take the last walk to say “arrivederci” to the city or do some shopping. Transfer to the airport or train station is available as an optional extra.