Just a taste of what’s in store for you on Tauck’s ultimate Italian vacation: a close-up look at the iconic Colosseum in Rome... a serenade during a gondola ride on the canals of Venice... stopping for gelato... stunning views from cliff-top Ravello on the Amalfi Coast... and romantic Florence
8. UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN Tuscany is an enchanting region, where for centuries the beauty of nature has blended with the ingenuities of mankind; your travels through the rolling Tuscan hills take you through golden landscapes dotted with olive and fig trees. Arrive in the hilltop town of San Gimignano, one of its gems. The town’s famous medieval towers, built in the 12th century by the nobility, are visible from afar. Stroll along the quaint streets and visit Piazza della Cister na, one of Italy’s most picturesque town squares. Continue your journey through lush Tuscan countryside to the seaside resort town of Viareggio for an overnight stay. Meals BD
9. CINQUE TERRE / FLORENCE Cinque Terre was ac ces si ble only by sea for hun dreds of years, five picture-book fishing villages nestled between the Medi ter ra nean’s blue waters and the rugged coastal moun tains. Travel by train through the mountains to one of the villages, where you’ll experience daily life – from colorful fishing boats home from the sea, to the wine, olives, and citrus fruit produced locally. You’ll have some time to explore the cobblestone streets and alleyways, perhaps sampling the unique flavors of the local cuisine for lunch. Aboard a private boat, cruise the shores of the Italian Riviera for unparalleled views of this dramatic coast. Journey to the Renaissance city of Florence for a three-night stay at the Grand Hotel, Florence in the heart of the city. Meals BD
10. EXPERIENCE THE ART OF FLORENCE Art and architecture whisper the history of the ages in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Tauck’s in-depth exploration of this beautiful city begins with a briefing by an art history lecturer, whose insights prepare you for a guided walking tour of Florence’s Renaissance heart. Then enjoy a guided visit through the collections of works by many of the greatest artists of the 14th and 15th centuries – including Michelangelo’s famous sculpture of David and paintings by Botticelli, Uccello, Ghirlandaio, del Sarto and others – at the inimitable Galleria dell’Accademia. Flourishing for more than four centuries, this world-renowned
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institution was established in 1563 as the first art school in Europe. The rest of the afternoon and evening are free. Meals B
11. TREASURES OF THE UFFIZI GALLERY Join a local expert for a guided tour of Florence’s inspiring Uffizi Gallery. Originally a suite of offices, it was first used to display the Medici family’s private art treasures in 1581 – thereby making it the oldest art gallery in the world. Its vast collection includes some of the most revered works of the Italian Renaissance, such as Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus, Michelangelo’s The Holy Family, da Vinci’s unfinished Adoration of the Magi, Bellini’s Allegory and Raphael’s Madonna of the Goldfinch. Meals B
12. RIDE THE EUROSTAR TO VENICE The high-speed Eurostar train whisks you from Florence to Venice, traversed by some 100 canals. Transfer by canal boat to your hotel, conveniently located near St. Mark’s Square; after lunch, embark on a walking tour. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica as well as the sumptuous Doges’ Palace, once the official residence of the elected officials of the Venetian Republic. Indulge in the quintessential Venetian experience – a serenade aboard a gondola on the canals. Dinner tonight is on your own in Venice, a city well-known for its many fine restaurants! Meals BL
13. VENICE AT LEISURE The entire day is free to do as you please in Venice, truly one of the world’s most remarkable cities. You’ve got a lot to choose from – perhaps visiting the museums, walking along the narrow streets, lanes, and countless bridges – or taking a boat to explore one of the unique islands in the Venetian lagoon. Please join us this evening for a farewell cocktail re cep tion and dinner. Meals BD
14. JOURNEY HOME Tour ends: Venice. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from The Westin Europa & Regina to Marco Polo Airport. Allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in. Meals B
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