Florence

Florence is arguably the cultural capital of Europe and the showcase of Renaissance exuberance. Lovers of beauty, art and history can extend their experience in Tuscany to embrace the treasures of this magnificent city.

Itinerary

Day 9: Depart Castellina | Arrive in Florence
Upon arriving in Florence meet a local art historian guide and set out on a walking tour of the historic city center.

In Piazza della Repubblica discover the city’s beginnings as a Roman settlement. Wander through narrow streets past the fortified houses and towers that marked the medieval town, and emerge onto the open Piazza della Signoria, the political center of the city since the Middle Ages. See the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio then cap off the morning with lunch at the local market.

Walk through the market and meet in a local botteghe where families have been serving up culinary treasures for generations. Taste different local specialties, such as not-to-be-missed finocchiona salami or Tuscan crostino, paired with a glass of fine Chianti. Afterward enjoy a delightfully sweet break with an Italian cappuccino or scoop of gelato.

In the afternoon explore the hidden craft workshops of artisans who create jewels and leather goods—flagships of Tuscan local production. And finally, weather permitting, set out on a private boat excursion on the river Arno. Sail underneath the Ponte Vecchio and capture views of the Uffizi Gallery and many palaces that are part of Florence's history.

Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel De La Ville (L)

Day 10: Florence
Today join your guide and walk to the historic center to visit the Baptistery of San Giovanni, one of the oldest churches in Florence and a symbol of the city. With an octagonal plan, entirely covered with marble slabs and a dome decorated by a precious Byzantine mosaic, it represents a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture.

Next enjoy a tour of the Uffizi Gallery†. Commissioned in 1560 by Cosimo I de’ Medici and designed by the great architect Giorgio Vasari, the Uffizi has drawn visitors to view masterpieces by important artists of the Renaissance, including Leonardo Da Vinci, Giotto, Botticelli, Tiziano, and Michelangelo.

The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the city at your own pace.
Overnight: Hotel De La Ville (B)

Day 11: Florence | Depart for U.S.
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take the complimentary transfer to Florence's Peretola Airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

†The Uffizi Gallery tour is included in this itinerary because it holds a significant number of masterpieces. Touring will conclude at approximately 12:30 pm. Guests who would like to see Michelangelo’s statue of David at Accademia Gallery may additionally schedule their own visit during leisure time. We recommend securing a reservation in advance online at: https://www.galleriaaccademiafirenze.it/visita/.

Post-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This post-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.

(Itinerary subject to change.)

Activity Level: 3

Moderate

Tour days tend to be long, flow at a consistent pace and may include long periods of travel. Guests should be prepared to walk longer distances, climb stairs and tolerate periods of standing, for example on city walks, sightseeing stops or excursions, on sometimes uneven surfaces including cobblestones or unpaved pathways and trails. Some destinations may have variations in altitude and/or temperature. Daily pace and timing may vary significantly between longer and shorter travel days, with additional activities possibly occurring in the early morning or evening. Guests are expected to board transportation without assistance. Elevators are not always available at accommodations or sites visited.

• Historic areas are usually more accessible by foot than by vehicle. It may not always possible for the motor coach to drop guests off at site entrances.

Accommodations

Hotel De La Ville

Hotel de la Ville exudes an atmosphere of refined opulence—where classic Italian architecture and stylish contemporary décor creates an ambiance of understated luxury. Located just steps away from Florence's renowned attractions such as the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio, this property provides unparalleled access to the city's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the well-appointed rooms, inviting public lounge spaces and warm hospitality.

Room Amenities: Individual climate control, writing desk and chair, satellite LED TV, complimentary Wi-Fi, phone, minibar, safe, slippers, and en suite bathroom with sundries and hair dryer.

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Post-Tour Rate***

Double: $1,999
Single: $2,399

Post-tour rate is per person based on double occupancy except where noted as Single, in U.S. dollars. Single availability limited. Airfare not included.

What's Included

2 nights at Hotel De La Ville (or similar)
2 breakfasts and 1 lunch (a local market experience and tasting, featuring three courses and a glass of wine)
Guided art history and cultural tour, plus a panoramic walking tour of Florence's historical highlights
Visit to an artisanal workshop (leather or jewelry)
Private boat tour on the Arno River (dependent on river conditions)
Admission to the Uffizi Gallery and Baptistery of San Giovanni
Luggage porterage
Gratuities to local guide, drivers and porters
Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested times