Your tour opens in the famous spa resort town of Montecatini Terme, nestled in the heart of the rolling hills of Tuscany. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers during a welcome dinner where regional foods and Italian wines kick off your adventure.

Enjoy a guided tour of Lucca, Tuscany’s best-kept secret. Discover Renaissance walls, Romanesque churches, and medieval streets flanked by towers. Explore on your own before setting off for Borgo a Mozzano. See the Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge) and the nearby remains of the Gothic Line – the Germans’ last defense during WWII. Visit the Museum of Liberation and see authentic fortifications and bunkers. Make your way to a Tuscan winery and learn about the art of winemaking as you taste local varieties.

An early morning takes you to Florence, the beautiful “Cradle of the Renaissance.” Join a local Florentine guide on an extensive walking tour and make your way through the city on foot. At the Piazza del Duomo, take in the sight of the impressive Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with its towering, octagonal terracotta-tiled dome, the Baptistery of St. John, and Giotto’s Bell Tower. Take in views of the Piazza della Signoria and Santa Croce Square before enjoying the remainder of your time in Florence to explore as you wish. Use the Ghiberti Pass available to you this afternoon to visit your pick of Florence’s iconic Duomo sights, including entry to the interior of the Baptistery, access to the excavations of the ancient basilica of Santa Reparata under the cathedral, and admission to the Opera del Duomo Museum, which houses the Baptistery’s original gilded bronze doors by Ghiberti, known as the Gates of Paradise, along with sculptures by Michelangelo and Donatello, and a terrace offering grand views of Brunelleschi’s Dome.

Today, it’s your choice! Learn more about Montecatini’s history during a half-day guided walking tour and visit to the historic Tettuccio Spa,* known for the health benefits in its mineral waters -OR- journey to Siena on a full day excursion and embark on a walking tour through its narrow Gothic streets, getting to know the local lifestyle in a contrada (neighborhood) whose community is centered around the colorful Palio horse race.

Explore historic sites in the ancient maritime Republic of Pisa, including the Piazza dei Miracoli, or “Field of Miracles” (UNESCO). Keep your camera handy at the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Visit the Baptistery, the largest in Italy. This evening, travel to the quiet countryside to learn the secrets of traditional Tuscan cuisine. Partake in a cooking class, using local ingredients and culinary techniques that have been passed down for generations. Enjoy your freshly-prepared meal for dinner.

The day is yours to relax and experience the local flavor. Take this opportunity to shop at the local boutiques and dine at one of Montecatini’s fine local restaurants. Or, perhaps you will choose an optional full day excursion to Cinque Terre with its rugged coastline dotted with terraced vineyards. Explore this string of fishing villages nestled between the mountains and the Mediterranean.

At a nearby cheese farm, learn how the famous pecorino cheese is made before sampling it for yourself. Soak in breathtaking views as you travel to the hilltop village of San Gimignano, one of Tuscany’s most picturesque places. Explore this enchanting medieval town, from its famous 14 towers to its magnificent vistas overlooking vineyards. Enjoy free time and perhaps indulge in some gelato. Later, attend a Tuscan feast of traditional cuisine and wines set in the countryside.

Your journey comes to a close today. Depart with many fond memories of Tuscany.