Jewels of Italy: Tuscany and the Italian Riviera

At 7:15 am, you will rendezvous with your tour guide and embark from Rome on a deluxe coach (the specific hotel meeting point will be determined at the time of booking). Your journey will lead you through the provinces of Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany to the enchanting town of Montepulciano, a medieval treasure trove steeped in history and art. Take a few hours to explore Montepulciano at your own pace, partaking in complimentary wine tastings at various establishments, and relishing in leisure time for shopping and lunch (not included).

Next, venture forth to the picturesque town of Pienza, often hailed as the crown jewel of the Val d’Orcia region. You'll have free time to meander through this delightful town.

In the afternoon, arrive in Montalcino, the hilltop town lending its name to both the region and its renowned wines. Here, you'll have the opportunity to stroll along the fortress walls. Your journey continues with an exclusive wine tasting at Enoteca la Fortezza. Established in 1980, Enoteca la Fortezza stands as one of the earliest wine bars in Montalcino. Relish the nuances of Brunello di Montalcino wine (including Rosso di Montalcino, 2017 Brunello di Montalcino, and 2018 Brunello di Montalcino), complemented by local gastronomic delights and the renowned Pecorino cheese.

Lastly, proceed to Siena for your overnight stay. Meals: B

After breakfast, set off into the enchanting Chianti hills, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of lush forests, endless vineyard rows, and picturesque medieval hamlets. The delightful town of Greve is celebrated for its triangular-shaped piazza. Enjoy your leisure time exploring local boutiques and vibrant market stalls.

Later, embark on a short drive to Poggio al Sole, where you'll partake in a guided tour of the cellars. Immerse yourself in a guided tasting session featuring some of the finest wines, accompanied by a delectable lunch showcasing gastronomic specialties crafted from locally sourced Tuscan ingredients. Delve into the winery's history and gain insight into the organic winemaking process. Throughout the tour, you'll trace the captivating journey of these wines from grape to bottle.

Following your satisfying lunch, dedicate your afternoon to the nearby medieval hill town of San Gimignano, an esteemed UNESCO World Heritage site. Take your time to explore the town at your own pace before returning to Siena for a restful overnight stay. Meals: B, L

After breakfast, get ready to be enchanted as you meander along the captivating medieval streets of Siena. Take in the sight of splendid palaces and the magnificent Piazza del Campo, renowned as one of the world's most beautiful town squares and famous for hosting the ancient 600-year-old horse race known as "Il Palio." Following this visit, unwind during a scenic drive to Florence, where you'll have the freedom to explore the "Cradle of the Renaissance." You'll find yourself enraptured by the city's wealth of historical monuments, churches, and architectural marvels, including the awe-inspiring Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly referred to as the Duomo. In the heart of the city, explore the renowned Piazza della Signoria, the imposing Palazzo della Signoria (also known as Palazzo Vecchio), and the majestic Basilica of Santa Croce. Delight in leisurely moments strolling along Florence's cobblestone streets at your own pace before making your way to Lucca. Conclude your day with a delectable dinner at the hotel, where you'll spend a restful overnight.

After breakfast, set off on an enchanting walking tour to explore one of Tuscany's most beloved and artistically rich cities: Lucca. Steeped in ancient history, Lucca's numerous attractions are a testament to its cultural heritage. During a comprehensive two-hour guided tour, you'll have the opportunity to visit the city's key monuments and squares, meandering along its narrow streets. As you bid farewell to Lucca, your next stop is Pisa, where you'll have ample time to explore the renowned Piazza dei Miracoli. Here, you'll be awe-struck by the Leaning Tower (exterior visit), have the opportunity to explore the Baptistery (exterior visit), and appreciate other significant monuments. Enjoy leisurely moments in this picturesque town before continuing your journey to your next destination, La Spezia, where you'll spend the night.

Indulge in a hearty breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an unforgettable journey to one of the Mediterranean's most pristine and expansive regions: the Cinque Terre. This area encompasses the charming villages of Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These villages, perched on cliffs and surrounded by verdant landscapes, boast some of the cleanest waters in the Mediterranean. From the vibrant hues of the houses to the winding paths, from the terraced vineyards and olive groves to the delectable local cuisine, this region stands as one of Italy's most breathtaking. Your journey commences with a bus ride to Levanto, followed by an exploration of the Cinque Terre aboard special local trains, providing you with ample free time to relish a delightful lunch (not included). In the afternoon, we return to La Spezia, where you'll spend another relaxing night.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, followed by a scenic bus ride to Rapallo. Upon arrival, take a leisurely stroll to the expansive harbor, framed by a charming medieval castle that now serves as an exhibition space. From Rapallo, embark on a picturesque boat journey to explore two exquisite destinations nestled within the Gulf of Tigullio. The first stop is Santa Margherita Ligure, affectionately known as "La Perla del Tigullio," a town embraced by the sea and cradled by mountains. Following this, a brief boat ride transports you to the enchanting town of Portofino, renowned for its glamour. The city boasts elegant luxury boutiques, and its colorful streets in the city center create a truly captivating atmosphere. In the afternoon, we return to Rapallo and later depart by bus for Sestri Levante, where you will savor a delightful wine and local food tasting. After this enriching experience, you will return to La Spezia, where you'll spend the night.

Savor a final breakfast at the hotel as your tour with us draws to an end. Feel free to inquire about arrangements for your return to Rome or any other Italian city for your departure.