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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

June 14 – June 16, 2024

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, June 14, 2024
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
Saturday, June 15, 2024
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.
Sunday, June 16, 2024
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

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. Historic city centers are usually more accessible by foot than vehicle. Due to the structure of some buildings, facilities for the disabled may be limited.


Accommodations

Hotel De La Ville

June 14 - June 15

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.

Hotel de la Ville exterior
Hotel de la Ville guest room
Hotel de la Ville guest bathroom
Hotel de la Ville cuisine
Hotel de la Ville lounge
Hotel de la Ville lobby
(Accommodations subject to change.)

Post-Tour Rate***

Double: $1,595
Single: $1,995

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)
  • 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch (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