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Panorama of Florence and Saint Mary cathedral
Ponte Vecchio bridge over the Arno River in Florence, Italy
Fountain Neptune in Piazza della Signoria in Florence, Italy.
Square of Signoria in Florence, Italy at sunrise
Ponte Vecchio bridge in Florence, Italy
Charming side street in Florence, Italy with sun setting in background
Duration
9 Days
Activity Level
Moderate
Group Size
22

Florence

September 15 – September 17, 2023

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
Friday, September 15, 2023
Upon arriving in Florence, meet a local art historian guide and set out on a walking tour of the Florence historic 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 food treasures for generations. Stop and taste different local specialties, such as the not-to-be-missed finocchiona salami or the Tuscan crostino, paired with a glass of fine Chianti. Then, enjoy a delightful, sweet break with an Italian cappuccino or an artisanal gelato.

In the afternoon, explore the hidden craft workshops that create artisanal jewels and leather products—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 delight in the views of the Uffizi Galleries and many palaces that are part of the history of Florence while sipping a glass of Prosecco.

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

Day 10: Florence
Saturday, September 16, 2023
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.

At the end of the tour, savor lunch and an afternoon at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. 
Overnight: Hotel De La Ville (B)

Day 11: Florence / Depart for U.S.
Sunday, September 17, 2023
After breakfast, transfer to Florence's Peretola Airport for flights home. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch

This post-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide. Space is limited, so it's recommended to reserve early for best availability.

(Itinerary subject to change.)


Activity Level

Moderate

It is our expectation that guests on this program are able to walk a mile at a moderate pace, board a motor coach, and walk up a flight of stairs without assistance.


Accommodations

Hotel De La Ville

September 15 - September 16

Guests of the Hotel De La Ville are provided comfort and convenience in a romantic setting. The property is the result of a union of two buildings in the historic center of Florence, and today it retains charm and history while offering an array of amenities. 

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

(Accommodations subject to change.)

Post-Tour Rate***

Double: $1,395
Single: $1,895

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 accommodations at the Hotel De La Ville (or similar), with breakfast each morning
  • Guided art history and cultural tour, plus a panoramic walking tour of Florence's historical highlights
  • Local market experience and tasting, featuring three courses and a glass of wine
  • 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