Let the splendor of the art and landscape in Tuscany, Liguria, and Lombardy enrapture you as the cobalt lakes turn to turquoise seas and the lifelike sculptures and churches glow with gilded frescos. Your custom tailored tour lets you experience the captivating refinement of the most recognizable regions of Italy. Sip espresso on a seaside promenade and wander through Baroque palace gardens with views to the snow-capped Alps. Witness decorative gargoyles at eye level and discover a secluded abbey...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Florence – Arrive in Renaissance Florence and Enjoy an Introductory Tour
Florence maintains its connection to the Renaissance, along with its Roman roots, as highlighted along the Arno River and in the stunning architecture that lines the streets. Your private transfer will greet you at the Florence Airport and escort you into the heart of Tuscany’s capital city. The scent of rich steaks emanates from the crowded restaurants as cafes set out umbrellas to shade the patrons from the warm, drifting sunlight. Locals watch passersby and sip their fresh-brewed espresso. Your guide will meet you in the bright lobby of your hotel ready to introduce you to the beauty of Florence.
Start with the 14th-century Piazza della Signoria that has always been the political center of the city since its inception and then the Neptune Fountain as it edges the corner of Piazza Vecchio, which stands for the Old Palace. The fountain remains the centerpiece of the piazza, built to celebrate the wedding of Francesco de’Medici in the mid 16th-century. Four horses and three Tritons surround Neptune, who rises above the heart of the fountain with a dramatic gaze. While passersby stroll through the piazza, your guide will points you to a granite disc feet from the fountain’s edge. The plaque commemorates where the zealous cleric Savonarola was executed after trying to force inhabitants of the city into righteousness during the Renaissance. The elegant statues in the Loggia dei Lanzi embody the choices of Florentines, who chose beauty and expression in their art over religious virtue.
What's Included:
Day 2
Florence – Discover the Treasures of Florence on a Private Museum Tour
Day 3
Florence – Explore the Hidden and Overlooked History and Art of Florence
Day 4
La Spezia – Travel to La Spezia and Delight in a Wine Tour of Cinque Terre
Day 5
La Spezia – Relish a Scenic Cruise of the Coastline and Relax in Monterosso
Day 6
Milan – Venture to the Bustling City of Milan for a Half-Day Tour of the City
Day 7
Lake Como – Transfer into the Mountains to Revel in the Beauty of Como
Day 8
Milan – Experience the Art and Fashionable Culture of the Northern City
Day 9
Milan – Depart for Home
Trip Highlights
- Learn the secrets of producing authentic hand-decorated marbled paper and bookbinding during a private lesson taught by a master artisan decorator
- Relish a scenic cruise on the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea providing stunning views to the pastel villages of Cinque Terre
- Witness the incredible art for which Italy is most famous, including Michelangelo’s David, da Vinci’s Last Supper, and the works of Botticelli, along with other masters
- Relax on the charming shores of Lake Como, home to enchanting villages and gorgeous scenery
- Sample the unique flavors of Ligurian wines produced on the terraced hills of Cinque Terre
- Experience the sensational acoustics and opulent architecture of the Teatro alla Scala in Milan, one of the most famous opera houses in Italy
- Revel the tranquil walkways and local culture along the canals of Milan
- Discover the often overlooked wonders of Florence during your guided tour of the city’s art, architecture, and history located both indoors and outdoors
Detailed Description
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but the majesty of Italy is always undeniably beautiful. Your 9-day tour encompasses the best of Florence, Cinque Terre, Milan, and Lake Como for an unforgettable vacation of artistry set in museums, on the historical streets, and embodied in the landscape. Your private transfer will meet you at the Florence airport and escort you to your hotel in the heart of the city. Your guide will lead you on a fabulous introductory tour of the Renaissance streets and buildings to visit the Duomo, Santa Croce, and take in the views of the skyline at Piazza Michelangelo.
Continue the next day as you embark on an artistic exploration of Florence by visiting the treasured museums that house some of the city’s most notable works, from the Uffizi to the Galleria dell’Accademia. Florence feels lively and enriching and offers secrets to reveal and luxuries to indulge in during every day of the week. Meander next through the charming Tuscan countryside to visit small medieval towns or choose to spend more time in Florence on a guided tour in search of the overlooked history and splendor of the Renaissance, including Medici’s former church in San Lorenzo. Transfer next to La Spezia, a coastal city near the edge of Cinque Terre. The brief train ride to Riomaggiore allows you to step into the Italian Riviera for an immersive experience.
Wander along the trail to the neighboring town of Corniglia and enjoy a marvelous tour of the vineyards, followed by a tasting. Next day, cruise along the Ligurian Sea for a view of the five towns of Cinque Terre before you arrive in Monterosso. Relax in the northernmost town of Cinque Terre or take the walking path to the visit the towns of Vernazza and Manarola. Continue as your private guide escorts you to Milan, the fast-paced northern city. Your guide will provide a tour that allows you to settle into the city like a local to take in the history and modernity of the city all at once.
Next, travel north into the mountains to relish the charms of Lake Como and its scattered villages. In the morning, take your time to visit the villas and gardens around Lake Como before your return to Milan. The city welcomes you back with vigor as your local guide once again opens the world of Milan’s art and architecture. Conclude as your private transfer will meet you at your hotel and escort you to Malpensa Airport for your flight home.
Starting Price
$4,100 per person (excluding international flights)
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
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