Tuscany
Itinerary
Transatlantic Flight
Today depart the U.S. on an international flight to Italy.
Arrive in Italy
Upon arrival, proceed to baggage claim. After clearing customs, you will be met by your English-speaking Discovery Program Guide who will assist you onto your deluxe motorcoach. You will arrive at the nearby spa resort town of Montecatini, your home for the next seven nights. Montecatini is situated in the northern part of Tuscany, just outside of Florence, in the heart of the Italian art cradle. One of the many highlights of this tour is that there is no “packing and unpacking” . . . a relaxed way to experience this wonderful region of Italy. Have a Welcome Cocktail and briefing this evening at the hotel. Then enjoy your first real Italian meal this evening in the dining room. Dinner is at the hotel. (D)
Pisa
In the morning, you will visit Pisa. The square of Mirades contains some breathtaking monuments: the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, the Baptistry, the monumental cemetery and the Opa Museum. Exploring is easy as everything is located within a few hundred yards of each other. Maybe taste a local cappuccino at one of the cafes on the square. (B, D)
Florence
After breakfast, you’ll travel to the heart of the Tuscan region and the city of Florence, which has produced famous artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Dante and Michelangelo. Your tour of Florence will include a visit to the Piazza del Duomo to see its massive bronze “Gates of Paradise,” Signoria Square, the 13th century Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, the Giotto Tower and the Church of Santa Croce where Michelangelo is buried. The aft ernoon will be free to sightsee or shop in Florence. (B)
Montecatini (Cinque Terre)
Today, enjoy an Optional Tour of Cinque Terre where you’ll find rugged beauty and a slow pace. Named for the five towns of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, this portion of the Italian Riviera is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with a string of centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. In each of the five towns, colorful houses and ancient vineyards cling to steep terraces, fishing boats bob in harbors and trattorias turn out seafood specialties along with the Liguria region’s famous sauce, pesto. (B)
Montecatini (San Gimignano - Chianti)
After breakfast we travel into the heart of Tuscany. As we travel south you will recognize many of the landscapes from the movie “Under the Tuscan Sun,” filmed in this area. Visiting the walled city of San Gimignano, the bestoreserved medieval village in Italy, you will admire the many towers that once served as the skyscrapers of the 13th and 14th centuries. We will stroll around the tiny streets leading to the top of the village, maybe stop in one of the many cafes and small trattorias for a sandwich and a “gelato”... Italian ice cream. [Chamber Experience] As you drive south through the wine country of Chianti this afternoon, your stop will include a winery to taste the local superb wine. Enjoy local wines and an educational program as brought to you by the leaders of the local wine industry. This evening enjoy cooking class with home-made pasta making and dinner with wine tasting. (B, D)
Montecatini (Venice)
Day at leisure or take an optional full day tour and visit the Ferrari Museum. (B)
Montecatini (Siena)
Day at leisure or take an optional tour to Siena, in the heart of Tuscany. Your escort will lead you to the Piazza del Campo, the ancient Tuscan capitol, a fascinating art town. This is the site of the most famous “palio” in all of Italy. This race of men on horseback, held twice a year, is charged with electricity as the competitors race around the town square at a furious pace. Take the time to explore the museums and churches of Siena and the glamorous shops of the Via dei Banchi de Sopra. This evening enjoy a delicious Tuscan feast with your fellow travelers as a tribute to your new fond memories of Italy. (B, DB)
Flight Home
Breakfast at your hotel Transfer to the airport and fly homeExtensions
Three Nights in Rome
Begin your stay with 3 extra nights in Rome, Italy’s majestic capital! Includes transportation, hotel, breakfast, and city tour. Optional tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel.
Three Nights in Venice
Continue your trip with 3 nights on Venice Island! Includes transportation, breakfast each day and a 3 course dinner. Enjoy a guided city tour and gondola ride and free time to explore the city!Accommodations
MONTECATINI, ITALY
Hotel Tettucio
Accommodations
MONTECATINI, ITALY
Hotel Tettucio