In Venice, there is no more classic an experience than a gondola ride on the city’s iconic canals... and yours is serenaded! Your stay in the “city of canals” is further enhanced by an exclusive, after-hours guided visit to the Doge’s Palace, where you’ll explore its opulent Venetian interiors without the usual crowds...
8. THE TOWERS OF SAN GIMIGNANO In Tuscany, the beauty of nature has blended with the ingenuities of mankind for centuries; 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; the town’s famous medieval towers, built in the 12th century by the nobility as symbols of wealth, are visible from afar. Stroll along the quaint streets and visit Piazza della Cisterna, 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. A DAY IN CINQUE TERRE & ON TO FLORENCE For hun dreds of years, Cinque Terre was ac ces si ble only by sea – 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 on your own, before a cruise along the Italian Riviera for unparalleled views of this dramatic coast. Journey to Florence for a three-night stay in the heart of the city. Meals BD
10. THE ART OF FLORENCE, REVEALED Art and architecture whisper the history of the ages in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Your in-depth exploration of this remarkable 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 collections featuring works by many of the greatest artists of the 14th and 15th centuries – including Michelangelo’s famous sculpture of David as well as paintings by masters like Botticelli,
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Uccello, Ghirlandaio, del Sarto and others – at the inimitable Galleria dell’Accademia. Flourishing for more than four centuries, this world-renowned institution was established in 1563 as the first art school in Europe. The remainder of the day is free in Florence; enjoy lunch and dinner on your own. Meals B
11. MASTERPIECES OF THE UFFIZI GALLERY Embark with a local expert on a guided tour of Florence’s inspiring Uffizi Gallery. Originally a suite of administrative offices (uffizi), 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. Spend the rest of the day as you wish. Meals B
When describing our visit to the Colosseum, smiles speak louder than words
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