Day 1: Montecatini Terme
Depart your hotel at 4:00 PM for an orientation tour of Montecatini Terme. Discover the town's rich history of restorative waters and baths dating back to Roman times, and see why it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your hotel is centrally located amid the town's elegant architecture and close to shopping and restaurants. Enjoy a welcome drink and dinner with your group at the hotel this evening.
(D)
Day 2: Pisa | Lucca
Visit the medieval town of Pisa to see the famed Leaning Tower and its neighboring buildings in the marvelous Piazza dei Miracoli: the grand white marble cathedral and the amazing round baptistry. Next go to Lucca, a beautiful walled city with cobblestone streets where you'll have time for independent exploration and lunch. You might choose to visit some of the hundred churches for which this small city is known, admire the medieval architecture of the towers, or buy a souvenir from the shops specializing in artisanal paper, ceramic, jewelry, and leather products. Back in Montecatini, your evening will be free to explore and dine as you wish.
(B)
Day 3: Florence | The Accademia Gallery
Discover the wonders of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, on a walking tour led by a local guide. Marvel at iconic sights like the Duomo, Palazzo Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria in the city center. Next, experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Michelangelo's David up close on a visit to the Accademia Gallery. Take some independent time to soak in the atmosphere of this beautiful city before savoring an early dinner at a local restaurant with your group.
(B, D)
Day 4: Montecatini | Fattoria il Poggio Farm
Your morning and early afternoon will be free to spend in Montecatini Terme as you wish. Perhaps you'll relax in your hotel's outdoor swimming pool or take the short walk to the funicular to Montecatini Alto, a small walled town on the hill above Montecatini Terme. For the evening, visit Fattorio il Poggio, an ‘agritourismo' farm that embodies the spirit of sustainability. Explore the vineyard and olive grove, savor wine and olive oil tastings, and indulge in traditional, home-cooked cuisine.
(B, D)
Day 5: Cinque Terre
Embark on a full day visiting the Cinque Terre, a string of five picturesque fishing villages perched on the Italian Riviera, accessible only by train and hiking trails. Take in the sights of fishing boats in the harbors and lemon trees on the hillsides, and stroll the streets with their stone houses, medieval churches, and small boutiques. Board the train between villages and enjoy free time to explore and relax as you wish: savor lunch in one of the local restaurants, explore the shops, or enjoy gelato on the harbor. Return to your hotel in Montecatini for dinner.
(B, D)
Day 6: Siena | San Gimignano | Castello di Verrazzano
Immerse yourself in the medieval allure of Siena on an orientation walk with your tour director, followed by time for independent exploration. Next, continue on to San Gimignano and behold its captivating skyline, adorned with its iconic medieval tower houses. Conclude the day with a tour, tasting and a gourmet dinner at Castello di Verrazzano, a renowned vineyard producing Chianti Classico wine.
(B, D)
Day 7: Vinci | San Miniato | Truffle Hunting | Farewell Lunch
Embark on a journey to Vinci, the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, the illustrious genius of the Italian Renaissance, as you make your way towards San Miniato. This charming medieval gem is famed for the wild truffles that flourish there. Join a local expert and his skilled truffle-hunting dog to search for these prized delicacies in their natural habitat. Delight in a farewell lunch at a local restaurant, savoring truffle specialties.
(B, L)
Day 8: Tour Ends in Montecatini Terme
Your tour ends after breakfast.
(B)
B: Breakfast; L: Lunch; D: Dinner
Authentic Local Experiences:
- Stay in a luxurious spa town to explore Tuscany’s medieval gems, enjoy gourmet food and wine, and discover the captivating villages of Cinque Terre.
Trip Highlights:
- Montecatini Terme
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Lucca
- Florence
- Michelangelo’s David
- Cinque Terre
- Siena
- San Gimignano
- Castello di Verrazzano wine tasting
- Truffle hunt in San Miniato
Hotels:
-
Grand Hotel Croce di Malta, Montecatini Terme (7)
INSIDER TIP! Extend your vacation with pre-nights and post-nights at the Montecatini hotel. We’ve negotiated special hotel rates to make it easy and affordable.
Meals:
- 7 Breakfast (B), 1 Lunch (L), and 5 Dinners (D)