Tuscany & the Italian Riviera

Travel across the Italian countryside, over the rolling hills of Tuscany and to the enchanting Italian Riviera. Relax with a three-night stay in a Tuscan estate and savor the sprawling vineyards and charming medieval hill towns of the region. Enjoy a private winery tour on an interactive pasta-making demonstration. Spend a day exploring the Cinque Terre’s rugged coastline by train. Visit the Uffizi Gallery and marvel at some of the Renaissance’s most important works. Visit Siena, Pisa, and Lucca. Take a boat ride from Santa Margherita Ligure to visit glamorous Portofino. Revel in a three-night stay on the stunning Riviera. Stroll along the streets of the walled town of Monteriggioni and take a guided tour of the treasures of Florence. Throughout your journey, discover a land rich in history, culture and cuisine.

Day 1 – Overnight Flight-Set out to experience two of Italy’s great regions.

Day 2 – Italy – Tuscan Estate – Tour Begins
Begin your trip with a relaxing three-night stay in a traditional Tuscan estate*. This evening, enjoy a private tour of the estate’s winery in the heart of Tuscany that showcases the wine cellar and the splendid grounds. Prior to enjoying an authentic Tuscan dinner expertly paired with wines produced on site, experience an interactive pasta-making demonstration with the winery’s chef. (D)

Day 3 – Tuscan Estate – Florence – Tuscan Estate
In Florence, the “Cradle of the Italian Renaissance,” visit the world-famous Uffizi Gallery with a local expert to see some of the most important works from the Renaissance period. During your cultural tour, you’ll also view Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria Del Fiore and the Palazzo Vecchio. Complete your tour with an informative explanation of Florentine gold and the fascinating techniques behind it at a local gold shop. Finally, enjoy time at leisure to relax or discover this thrilling city on your own. (B)

Day 4 – Tuscan Estate – Siena – Monteriggioni – Tuscan Estate
A scenic journey through Tuscany’s graceful low-lying hills brings you to the mystical city of Siena. Delight in its narrow Gothic streets, magnificent palaces and historic Piazza del Campo. After a walking tour with a local expert, take some time to explore the medieval corners of Siena with its great shops and outdoor cafés. Continue to the walled town of Monteriggioni for a stroll along quaint streets. Return to your countryside estate where you may take time to explore the Medici Villa on-site. (B/D)

Day  5 – Tuscan Estate – Lucca – Pisa – Italian Riviera
As you head towards Italy’s picturesque Riviera, make a stop in the medieval city of Lucca, encircled by 16th-century Renaissance walls. A guide takes you on an informative tour including a visit to the Cathedral of San Martino and the Piazza Napoleone. Next, visit the ancient maritime Republic of Pisa to discover the Piazza Dei Miracoli, the Duomo (Cathedral) and, of course, the famous Leaning Tower. Continue on to the Italian Riviera, your home for three spectacular nights. (B/D)

Day 6 – Italian Riviera – Cinque Terre – Italian Riviera
Spend a day exploring the Cinque Terre with its rugged coastline dotted with terraced vineyards. Travel by rail through this nearly inaccessible string of fishing villages nestled between the mountains and the Mediterranean. Your Tour Manager is on hand to help plan your day and make the most of your time in these five towns. (B)

Day 7 – Italian Riviera-Santa Margherita Ligure-Portofino-Italian Riviera
Travel to the seaside town of Santa Margherita Ligure for a boat ride** to glamorous Portofino. Take in the town’s colorful harbor, dotted by fishing boats and yachts, set against a backdrop of pastel-colored buildings. Return to Santa Margherita Ligure where you may enjoy a lovely lunch or peruse its charming streets and boutiques. Enjoy a free afternoon in the area before your farewell dinner. (B/D)

Day 8 – Italian Riviera – Tour Ends
Today you depart for home. (B)

Starting from $2,069 per person  double (single supplement available)

Trip dates 2016:
Monthly departures March – November 

Contact us for more information or to book this getaway! Tour Code: VC