Your day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Florence

We'll meet in the hotel lobby around 3 p.m. to get acquainted, take an orientation walk through our neighborhood and plunge into the heart of Florence by visiting Michelangelo's sublime David. Then we'll enjoy an introduction to hearty Tuscan cuisine at a favorite local restaurant. Walking: light.

Day 2: Renaissance Walk

Today we'll tackle the historic riches of Florence as your guide leads you on a Renaissance walk across town. We'll see the magnificent Duomo (cathedral) and Duomo Museum, as well as the Orsanmichele Church. By now it will be clear…you are immersed in the art capital of Europe. Dinner is on your own this evening. Walking: moderate.

Day 3: Uffizi and San Marco Museums

We begin the day touring the Museum of San Marco, the best collection of frescoes and paintings by the early Renaissance master Fra Angelico. Then we'll devote our afternoon to the Uffizi Gallery, home to the finest collection of Italian paintings anywhere. Walking: strenuous.

Day 4: Oltrarno: Back Door Florence

A local scholar will join us this morning to take us across the Arno River to the untouristy, working-class Oltrarno district. We'll go beyond the Renaissance, with a fascinating walk and peek into Roman, medieval, and 19th century Florence (when the city suddenly found itself the capital of a new country called Italy). After a free afternoon, we'll kick off the evening with a wine and cheese tasting. Walking: strenuous.

Day 5: Drive into the Tuscan Countryside

Today is for rural Tuscany, an escape from the city and a chance to commune with this region's quieter side. As we meander through the beautiful Tuscan countryside, we'll find unspoiled villages to stroll, viewpoints to savor and Chianti wine to sample. Bus: 3 hrs. Walking: moderate.

Day 6: Bargello and Time to Wander

After a morning tour of the Bargello Museum and its collection of breathtaking Renaissance statues, you're free to explore Florence's other sights (and there are plenty), navigate its many tempting shops or go back for more gelato. After a free afternoon we'll celebrate our last night in Tuscany and many new friendships with a farewell dinner in a classic Florentine restaurant. Salute! Walking: moderate.

Day 7: Tour Over After Breakfast

We'll say our final goodbyes and head for home or on to another exciting destination. Arrivederci, Firenze!

Itinerary specifics subject to change.

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