Discover Bella Tuscany
Journey with us to the beautiful birthplace of the Italian Renaissance!
Tuscany is known for amazing landscapes, rich art and history, fine wine and mouthwatering cuisine.
November 2 - 10, 2012
To begin our journey, we tour the famous cultural sites of Pisa and browse through the lively shopping stalls before departing for Lucca, a city whose ancient Roman origins are still evident. Our tour highlights the 11th century Duomo, built in the fantastic Pisan Romanesque style; the church of San Michele in Foro, which stands on the site of the ancient forum; the Piazza del Mercato; and the Torre dei Guinigi, a medieval tower with oak trees growing on top. Next stop, Florence for a guided stroll to Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery with its Gates of Paradise by Ghiberti, and the Cathedral of St. Maria del Fiore and a visit to the Academy of Fine Arts to view Michelangelo’s David. Then on to the “Eternal City”, Rome to tour the Coliseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill.
Pienza, our next destination, is a pristine Renaissance jewel created in 1458, specializing in Pecorino, a delicious sheep milk cheese. Here, we enjoy a tasting of local olives and cheese before continuing to the lovely village of Montalcino famous for its Brunello wine for a wine tasting. Next we visit the charming medieval town of San Gimignano, named after the Bishop of Modena, who is reputed to have saved its people from the Barbarians and then to Siena, a city devised entirely as a work of art that blends into the surrounding landscape. Our walking tour of Siena takes us to the church of San Domenico, Loggia della Mercanzia, Piazza del Campo, and the Palazzo Publico.
Travelers then have the option of a self guided day in Florence or a road trip to Venice to visit St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. We stay in Montecatini, a village known for its thermal spas and lovely vistas. Take our trip to Tuscany; interspersed with expertly guided tours, you’ll have ample time to explore on your own or relax at the pristine hotel on this alumni trip.
Montecatini * Florence * Pisa * Lucca * Pienza * Montalcino *
San Gimignano * Siena * Rome
9- Day Tour Includes:
*Roundtrip Airfare
*Seven (7) Night Accommodation
*Luxury Motor Coach
*Professional Tour Manager
*Breakfast Daily
*Welcome & Farewell Dinner
*Three (3) Additional Dinners
*Sightseeing per Itinerary
*Air Taxes Up to $200
$2,299 P/P Db. Occ.
(Pending Air Confirmation,
Plus Air Taxes Exceeding $200)