ROME and TUSCANY

6 nights

Land Only

For 2 persons

From Euro 2,765 using 3 star hotels of charm with all amenities

 

Prices to be confirmed based on time of year and hotel availability

 

 

Your special Italian Package includes:

v      6 nights charming hotels, country inns or manor houses with buffet breakfast, centrally located.

1.       2 nights in Rome;

·         3 star options:  REGNO, OXFORD, LOCARNO or similar

2.       3 nights in Florence;  

·         3 star options: IL GUELFO BIANCO, TORNABUONI BEACCI, LOGGIATO DEI SERVITI or similar

v      1 Last night in Rome to fly out

v      Champagne or  fruit basket upon arrival in Rome;

v      Train tickets in first class on the High Speed train from Rome to Florence, to then to Venice; reserved seating;

v      Private guide for a half day in Rome – itinerary of choice (walking itinerary);

v      Half-day tour of the Christian Rome with chauffeur:  The itinerary includes Piazza dell’Esquilino, the Baths of Caracalla, the Appian Way, the oldest Roman Road  (312 B.C.), the historical town of  Albalonga, a modern village which looks across a volcanic lake, Castelgandolfo, the summer residence of the Pope. The tour continue to Ariccia, a small village once isolated high in the mountains but easily to get to by large bridge constructed by Pope Pio IX, Genzano, the birth place of Marco Antonio Colonna, the famous General of the battle of Lepanto in 1571, Nemi, famous in the world for its strawberries, Grottaferrata with its Monastery founded on the ruins of an old roman villa and the charming town of Frascati, famous for the production of white wine.  From the height of 400 meters it is possible to enjoy a beautiful panoramic view. Here you will stop to permit you to taste the local wine.

v      Reserved tickets to the Uffizi in Florence and Borghese Gallery in Rome so you don't wait in line;

v      FLORENCE BY NIGHT WALKING TOUR with DINNER AT TUSCAN RESTAURANT:  You will be picked up directly at your hotel at about 7:30 pm and the evening will start with a dinner (included) in the historic center in a typical Florentine restaurant, followed by an wonderful walk (about two hours), discovering some of the most suggestive and interesting corners  of the city. The tour ends in Piazza della Repubblica at the famous “Caffe’ Concerto” with a snack included.

v      All assistance in planning the itinerary to your specifications;

v      Not included are meals unless part of an excursion, airfare and anything not listed

v      Federal Express package to your home: containing all vouchers, hard copy itinerary, train tickets and any other bookings included in your package

 

Any services you do not with to use can be subtracted from the tour.

 

OPTIONALS

 

OPTIONALS

v      Private cooking course in Florence: you may select your own menu and type of regional cuisine.  

v      Private transfer by limousine and driver from airport to hotel in Rome

v      Extra Special:  Full Day Excursion of the Tuscan Countryside with chauffeur-guide – lunch and wine tasting included visiting private wineries, medieval hill towns, palaces, abbeys and visiting local farmers and cheese manufacturers to taste olive oil etc… Pick up direct at hotel in a Mercedes with expert local guide/chauffeur.  Itineraries are tailor made for each client.

v      Car rental for Tuscany:  based on best quote available and type of car you desire

v      All transfers to and from airport and hotel by limousine and driver.

v      Private Guided visit to the historical handcraft laboratories of Florence (ceramics, leather, perfume, mosaics) to see how the same arts of the Renaissance are still practiced today.  Private guided tour. The irresistible tour opens up the precious old caskets of artisanal Florence, which lie hidden from the hurrying tourists. You will visit only the most authentic and prestigious laboratories of the historic Florentine craftwork: rare perfumes from the past, precious embroideries and fine laces, artistic leather workmanship and the Medicean Art of mosaics of semi-precious stones. It is also possible to purchase exclusive items directly in the craft workshops. You will be picked up directly at your hotel at about 3 pm and return at about 6:30 pm.

v      Horseback riding excursion into the countryside for half a day: enjoy the Tuscan countryside on a leisurely horseback ride. Our guide will take you through woods, hills and plains to hidden castles and ancient ruins.

v      Tickets for a music or theatre performance in Rome or Venice; pending availability

v      Pottery/Ceramic Class in the wonderful Chianti region, a craftsman will share with you the art of ceramics, teaching you to pug, lathe, bake and colour, after which you will keep the object you made.

v      Various bus and guide tours visiting Rome, outside Rome, the Tuscan towns of Pisa and Lucca and similar options

v      Golfing in the dramatic setting of the Chianti region. Private transfer from hotel to Golf club and return The facilities include driving range, putting green, pro-shop, tennis court, swimming pool, bar and restaurant.

v      Seaside excursion unforgettable day sailing in the Mediterranean with an experienced skipper, feasting on fresh fish pasta and visiting one or more islands

v      Hiking for half a day in the Tuscan Countryside with expert guide: 

v      Hot balloon ride: A truly unique experience floating silently over the Tuscan landscape you will experience views of villages and towns, piazzas and castles, with luxury car and driving escort. The tour lasts about 8 hours.

v      Full day guided tour to the region of UMBRIA -  PERUGIA AND ASSISI:  An itinerary in the green Umbria region, discovering eternally fascinating cities. Perugia has one of the most beautiful squares in Europe in which it is possible to admire the Maggiore Fountain, the gothic Basilica of San Lorenzo and the Palazzo dei Priori, home of the town hall. The tour continues to Assisi, built by the white Subasio’s stone and home town of the most loved saint in Italy: San Francesco. Stop for a lunch at a top restaurant (already included in the tour).  In the afternoon a guided visit will follow and you will be able to know more about the Basilica of Saint Francis, which was partly destroyed during the earthquake of September 1997, but now completely brought back to its former beauty.  You will also visit the Basilica of Santa Chiara and enjoy an enchanting view over the Umbrian countryside from the small square in front of the church. Return to Florence in the late evening.

 

 

 

DAY 1 – EN ROUTE TO ROME – ARRIVE NEXT DAY

 

DAY 2 - ARRIVE IN ROME - ORIENTATION

AM

Arrive in Rome Fiumicino Airport and be met at the airport and taken to your hotel in Rome. The ride takes about 40 minutes.

Check in and relax and freshen up, then head for an orientation walk of Rome; your location will be central to all sights.  If you are hungry get a bite at one of the restaurant locations below.

 

PM

Walk around the Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo and Fountain of Trevi and the many streets around this bustling historic area.  This is the very heart of historic Rome and wherever you walk, you are sure to find a famous monument, palace or museum.  Everything is within a 1-mile walking radius making sightseeing easy.

 

The world-famous Piazza di Spagna owes its name to the presence of the Spanish Embassy in previous centuries. The stairway of the Church of Trinita dei Monti was built in 1720 and until the end of the 1800's was “the sitting room” of the city. There is a museum dedicated to Keats and Shelley in the piazza. In its entire splendor in the middle of the square is the Fontana della Barcaccia (Fountain of the Old Boat), designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini's father, Pietro.

From Piazza di Spagna it is possible to reach the terrace of Pincio, from where you can enjoy one of the most romantic views of the city.

CAFÉ'S - BREAK

Around the Spanish Steps on the number one shopping street in Rome - Via Condotti is the Antico Caffe' Greco - over 200 years old.  This is where Lord Byron, Goethe and Liszt would stop to have a pastry and coffee or drinks.  It is expensive.  Otherwise head for the next parallel street - Via Frattina and take a seat at one of the 2 main café's - this is where Rome comes strolling by.

 

Walk along the elegant Via del Corso in direction Piazza Venezia and then turn left at Via Muratte…you will arrive directly at the most famous and spectacular of the Roman fountains, THE TREVI FOUNTAIN, due to the incredible effect of its white marble and to the legends and the images connected to it.

Tradition says that if you throw a coin into the fountain over your left shoulder you will return to Rome again soon.

 

Palazzo Colonna - this palace is open to the public once a week only on Saturday mornings.  The Palace of the Quirinal is a steep walk upwards from the Fountain of Trevi (walk up with your back facing the fountain).  The Quirinal is the highest of Rome's seven hills - it is the official residence of the nation's president.

 

 

WHERE TO EAT IN ROME….

 

Le Grotte and Da Mario right off the Spanish Steps on Via della Vite - have your concierge reserve for Da Mario, Via della Vite 55. @ Tel. 06 678 3818.

Le Grotte is one of the most famous and traditional Roman restaurants. Excellent pizza and top antipasto choice.  Via della Vite 37.  Reserve @ Tel. 06 679 5336.

Da Giggetto in the historic heart of Rome, Via del Portico d'Ottavia, 21a/22  or Il Pompiere  Via S. M. Dei Calderari 38.  Tel. 686 83 77.  Cl. Sun.

Fortunato al Pantheon right near the Pantheon.  A survivor in the culinary Roman empire: politicians and yuppies are frequent visitors: Superb antipasto table and genuine food at good prices. A meal here should be about $40 if you want soup to nuts and drink the house wine.  You can eat for less. Via del Pantheon 55, Tel.06 67 92 788.

Al Moro Fellini's favorite, wine repertory and chic atmosphere. Vicolo delle Bollette 13. Tel. 06 67 83 495

Osteria dell’Antiquario P.tta S.Simeone, 27 00186 ROMA Tel.: 06-6879694. Another top suggestions is Cul de Sac one of the historical restaurants in Rome. Great wine list with over 1400 labels. Traditional roman cuisine. P.za Pasqualino 73, Te. 06 68801094.

BEST COFFEE IN ALL OF ROME - just steps from the Pantheon - Tazza D'Oro.

Da Lucia (near the Tiber as you cross over towards the Tiberina Island - cheap, Vicolo del Mattonato. Tel. 06 580 36 01. Very traditional simple fare, no frills.

 

FURTHER SUGGESTIONS…good for the taste and for the wallet!!!

For the BEST PIZZA IN ROME - Da Ivo, Via di San Francesco a Ripa ask concierge - there is usually a line outside….try also the Pizzeria near Piazza di Spagna, La Capricciosa Largo dei Lombardi 8.

 

DAY 3 - VATICAN - ST. PETER - THE SISTINE CHAPEL - ROMAN FORUM

 

 

AM      

Morning tour of the VATICAN, ST. PETERS, and SISTINE CHAPEL together with your private guide, who will pick you up directly at your hotel. You can of course also settle another itinerary with him/her based on your interests. Take the metro direct to the Vatican or a taxi. 

 

The S. Peter’s Dome is the largest, most famous and magnificent basilica in the world. Within it lie works of art (including Michelangelo’s “Pieta”) covering almost 2000 years of history. The Basilica was originally built where the Apostle Saint Peter was believed to have been buried. The current basilica was inaugurated in 1626 and only later the square in front was planned and completed with its colonnade by Bernini.

Open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Climb into the dome, entrance from the portico: open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

 

Explore the Vatican Museums’ collection of Egyptian, Etruscan, Roman, Renaissance and Baroque art, works by Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio and Canova as well as the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel.

 

LUNCH - I suggest you take a cab with guide to CAMPO DEI FIORI MARKET and eat at LA CARBONARA right on the square.  This is Rome's most colorful and lively outdoor market.  Around you are picturesque streets, squares and ancient buildings.

 

PM      

Continue with private guide or on your own to the ROMAN and IMPERIAL FORUM, COLISEUM, and CAPITOLINE MUSEUMS.

 

The rise of IMPERIAL FORUM marked the passage from Republic to Empire, thanks to Giulius Cesar that built the first forum of the complex in 46 b.C.; all Roman Imperators wanted to live a distinguishing mark taking its name from them. The archaeological area is one of the richest all over the world, and for who loves art and Roman civilization the Imperial forum is one of the most interesting examples Rome can offer. The most important forum of the complex is the Traianus one;

 

 

The Roman Forum on the other side of the has been for Roman civilization an important point of reference: the old market, the Tribunal, the most important holy buildings are all inside it.

 

At the end of the Via dei Fori Imperiali you will find the COLOSSEUM, the most famous monument of Ancient Rome. Its original name is Flavian Amphitheatre. Later it has been renamed with its popular name, the Colosseum, because it was built near where the Emperor Nero had erected a huge statue, or colossus of himself. It showed him as the god of the sun. It was 100 feet high, and it was the largest gilded bronze statue in antiquity. It was later moved away. It took 24 elephants to move it!

 

Nearby is the Roman Ghetto a very old part of Rome where the Jews still live.  If time allows your guide can take you there also. There are excellent restaurants serving authentic Roman cuisine among the old ruins of Rome.

 

The CAPITOLINE MUSEUM houses some very important Roman and Greek sculptures and the Capitoline Hill (one of the historical seven hills of Rome) itself was designed largely by Michelangelo (few know he was an excellent architect).  There is plenty of walking here.  The view over the Roman Forum is wonderful at sunset.

 

 

BORGHESE GALLERY - DORIA PAMPHILI PALACE

 

AM      

 

VILLA BORGHESE is the most beautiful public garden in Rome, created by Cardinal Borghese at the beginning of the 17th century. Two of the nicer areas of the park are the Giardino del Lago, where you can rent boats, and Piazza Siena, where international equestrian events take place each spring.

 

BORGHESE GALLERY. This is Rome's finest collection and a small, intimate museum.  The very best art can offer housed in what was one of the city's most elegant palaces, owned by the Borghese family surrounded by the vast park and gardens. It is near the Via Veneto.

We will reserve tickets for you and inform you at which time you should pick up your tickets. You then just need to give your reservation number, pay for the tickets (about $ 5 USD) and enjoy the visit.  Museum opens at 9:00 a.m. 

 

After, stroll through the gardens towards the center of town and down Piazza del Popolo with its huge Obelisks and Fountains.  If you didn't already, take a taxi-ride to CAMPO DEI FIORI - Rome's most colorful market shouldn't be missed.  It is the very essence of Rome.  Many wonderful trattorias and restaurants around there I can recommend. 

Other option is to walk down the Corso from Piazza del Popolo where there are several important churches and the main shopping hub.

 

PM      

HALF DAY TOUR IN ROME

 

Further suggestions…

 

DORIA PAMPHILI PALACE - Another sumptuous palace still owned by the Pamphili family.  Make sure you take the tour of the private apartments, which usually is every hour.  This is located on the CORSO the long shopping street that starts at Piazza del Popolo and ends at the Monument to VICTOR EMMANUEL and PIAZZA VENEZIA - where Mussolini used to give his speeches.  Address is Piazza del Collegio Romano 1/a open Mon; Tues; and Fri-Sunday (just off the Corso).

 

DORIA PAMPHILI GALLERY displays a rich collection of major works by Italian artists from the 1500s and 1600s: Titian, Raphael, Filippino Lippi, Correggio, Caravaggio, Guercino, Guido Reni, Lorenzo Bernini, Velazquez.

Piazza del Collegio Romano, 1A. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Thurs.

 

 

ICE CREAM STOP

Walk over to the PANTHEON, the area has some of the best Gelato/ice-cream in the country.  GIOLITTI however has been the undisputed champion since my grandmother's time.  From the Pantheon (closes @ 6:30 p.m.) walk over to the sprawling PIAZZA NAVONA and the surrounding side streets.  The café Tre Scalini has the most intense chocolate truffle ice cream in Rome.  Justifiably famous.

 

FURTHER SUGGESTIONS

 

CASTEL SANT'ANGELO - ROMAN WALKS

 

AM

CASTEL SANT'ANGELO was the Pope's wartime fortress.  An underground passageway connected the Vatican with the Castle.  It is built on the ruins of Emperor Hadrian's tomb and very unusual in shape and content, used for over 1,000 years by Popes.   A climb to the very top offers an unforgettable view of the city including St. Peter's dome, the Tiber River and the terracotta roof tiles of Rome. 

 

 

PM

UKNOWN ROME:  TRASTEVERE - TIBER ISLAND this area is known to be where "true Romans" are born and bred. Trastevere is the Italian form of the Latin expression trans Tiberim, i.e. "beyond the Tiber" and probably Rome's most typical quarter, where old houses and narrow streets remind us what the whole city must have looked like centuries ago.

The heart of this quarter is a charming square, piazza S.Maria in Trastevere, featuring an ancient church, whence the name of the place, and a fountain. Legend has it that a miraculous well of oil sprang from this spot when Christ was born, and flowed to the Tiber all day.

Although Trastevere has undergone a re-birth after having been forgotten it still (at least for now) retains an authentic charm and this is where to have a pizza and where to look for tiny boutiques along the way.

 

v      SPECIAL EVENING DINNER IN TRASTEVERE:  Another option for one of your dinners is to head for Trastevere in the heart of Rome, where the "real" Romans live.  Take a cab over there, see the Church of Santa Maria in Trastevere and the Piazza late afternoon, before dinner and reserve a table outside at ROMOLO nel GIARDINO della Fornarina.  Tel. 581 8284.  Closed Monday.

 

GREAT CHURCHES - THE BATH OF CARACALLA

 

 

 

AM

Rome is the only city in the world with the most churches. It would take months to visit all of them and at the end you would probably think they all look the same way! However every single church, chapel, basilica has a singular history…here are just some of the most important and beautiful… 

 

The beautiful Church of Santa Maria Maggiore is the largest Roman church dedicated to the Virgin and dates from the time of Sixtus III (432-40). Major restorations and changes are from the middle of the 16th century, although from the 13th to the 14th centuries the portico was added and the campanile (the highest of all Roman campaniles) was built. The façade is from the 18th century.

 

The Basilica of San Giovanni in Laterano is the cathedral of Rome and the mother church of the Catholic world. It was built during the time of Constantine and has often been restored and transformed and was completely rebuilt by Borromini in 1650 for the Jubilee year. The famous Galileo Galilei created the façade on Piazzale di Porta S. Giovanni (the main entrance of the basilica) and Fontana the one on Piazza di San Giovanni.

 

According to a legend, the church of Santa Maria in Aracoeli, which overlooks the magnificent Imperial Forum, was built on the site where a sibyl predicted to Augustus the birth of Christ.

 

Santa Maria in Cosmedin

Erected in the 6th century on the site of the food distribution center of ancient Rome, which existed among a group of temples dedicated to Hercules. The portico, which is of the 12th century, holds the famous BOCCA DELLA VERITA’ (the Mouth of Truth), originally a drain covering in the shape of a great face with an open mouth - the mask of a river god. The Mouth of Truth, it was said, would close on the hand of a liar, cutting off the fingers. There is an interesting 8th-century crypt (inquire in the Sacristy).

 

 

DAY 4 – FLORENCE

 

 

AM      

A High-speed train will whisk you to Florence to arrive before lunchtime. Take taxi to hotel - which is minutes from the station and settle in.  Just outside is the heart of the city.  Florence is a city to discover on foot and all the main sites are within easy walking distance.

 

RESTAURANTS

A hole in the wall near the Mercato di San Lorenzo called Gozzi - but don't get there too late, the food is cooked in the morning, it is a local's hang out and when its finished, its finished. It isn't open on week-ends, it doesn't have a sign, and it isn't in any guidebook so walk behind the leather displays until you see a small door with people eating inside or ask a shop owner. Al Cinghiale Bianco (the White Boar), your hotel can reserve and you must reserve.  Tell your concierge you want the table "in the tower" if available.

Hosteria da Ganino - between the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio on a little side street, Piazza dei Cimatori.  Must reserve: Tel.  214125. Closed Sunday.  Ask for a table outside. 

La Vecchia Taverna di Bacco - near Piazza del Campo.  Via Beccheria 9.  Tel. 0577/49331.  All credit cards.

Al Marsili (if you stay in Siena) - between the Piazza del Campo and Cathedral.  It is a 900 year old wine cellar.  Via del Castoro 3.  Tel. 0577/47154.  Closed Monday.

Angiolino  - on the Oltrearno district Via Santo Spirito - tel. 239-8976, closed Monday and Sunday dinner.  Order Ribollita - the soup of Tuscany.

 

PM      

Walk around and do the Duomo, Palazzo della Signoria, Piazza della Signoria and main sites with private guide.   Do either the Palazzo Vecchio or the Bargello or the Santa Maria Novella Church.  

 

PALAZZO VECCHIO is one of the symbols of Florence, which has made it through centuries of battles and rebirths, brought it through the hands of gentlemen and merchants. Its impressive figure gives the piazza a strange but beautiful perspective. In the fifteenth-century it was the seat of the Signori, the highest power figure in the Renaissance, until the Medici family moved to Palazzo Pitti: then, to distinguish it from the Grand Duke's residence, it was named Palazzo Vecchio.

Continue along the Via dei Calzaiuoli, one of the main shopping streets in Florence and arrive at Piazza San Giovanni where you will find the DUOMO portrayed in every postcard, book, painting that advertises Florence, the BATTISTERO and the CAMPANILE DI GIOTTO.

 

The BAPTISTERY is one of the oldest buildings in Florence, which was initially the city's cathedral before the Reparata. The three sets of gilded bronze doors have made the building very significant hence they are worth talking about.
So far it has been impossible to date beginnings of the Baptistery, one of the oldest architectural monuments of the city.

Opening Hours:
Dome: 10:00 - 17:00 , Mon-Sat, 13:00-15:00 Sundays and Religious Holidays
Church: Times vary according to type of services held.
Baptistery - 13:30 - 18:30 Mon-Sat; 8:30-13:30 Sun. Closed on Easter Sunday.

 

 

On the Piazza della Signoria later on sip an aperitif at Rivoire where you can sit on the world's greatest piazza, sip a Campari or have the richest hot chocolate in Italy.  “People watching” is the main sport of the day here and you really do see just about everything.   The best time is to come before dinner, around 6:30 p.m.  

 

 

 

DAY 5 - UFFIZI GALLERY – PRIVATE TOUR OF THE HANDCRAFT LABORATORIES

 

AM      

We will reserve tickets to the Uffizi Gallery for you - one of the finest collections of Renaissance art in the world.

 

There is no way that one can see everything showed in this art galleries in one visit, since it contains many masterpieces that have been collected all over Italy; however a visit to this incredible collection is a must in Florence. Take it slowly and try to concentrate on a couple of themes you are more interested in.

 

The gallery building contains rooms and rooms of art collections. Some of these rooms may be closed for a variety of reasons but surely one cannot visit all of them in detailed despite the eagerness. Each has its theme and features a specific artist or a type of art.

To mention just few highlights: Room 1 houses an assembly of antique sculptures, many of which were used as a sort of source by Renaissance artists. Room 10 to 14 are dedicated to the great painter, Botticelli , the autor of the famous Primavera with Venus coming out of a shell.

Leonardo da Vinci takes room 15's visitors by storm in his work appearing in the Baptism. As if there can be no other competition, Michelangelo presents his Doni Tondo in room 25, which is the only easel painting, he came close to completing but it still looks magnificent.

 

 

 

Entry to this most historic gallery is not that easy considering that this gallery is in every tourists' 'must see' list.

The Vasari's Corridor can be found on the right end, far north of the museum. This corridor leads to the Palazzo Vecchio going over the Ponte Vecchio bridge.

 

Intended by Cosimo I around the middle of the 16th century, the UFFIZI PALACE was designed by Giorgio Vasari. In order to realize the project, Vasari had many houses that surrounded the area demolished. Its construction also included the church of San Pier Scheraggio, which was reserved to worshipping until 1743. The purpose of the extraordinary building was to host the thirteen Magistratures or Uffizi, where the Palace later received its name from, at the time located in different seats. When Vasari died, the building of the Uffizi Palace was entrusted to Buontalenti and Alfonso Parigi.

 

The building has an unusual horseshoe shape formed by two parallel buildings united by a passageway. The two floors of the building stand over a portico sustained by two pillars and decorated by niches, where the statues of Florentines who distinguished themselves from the Middle Ages until the 19th century are placed.

 

PM

 

TOUR OF THE HISTORICAL HANDCRAFT SHOPS

You will be picked up directly at your hotel at about 3 pm and return at about 6:30 pm.

 

 

FURTHER SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUR SIGHTSEEING

 

SAN LORENZO CHURCH - MEDICI CHAPELS – ACCADEMIA – OSPEDALE DEGLI INNOCENTI

 

Consecrated by St. Ambrose in 393, the SAN LORENZO CHURCH is the oldest church in the city. It was then rebuilt along Romanesque lines in 1060. The present building dates to 1423 and was designed and built by Brunelleschi.

The simple bare facade lacks the marble revetment; Michelangelo's design was never carried out. The internal façade, which Michelangelo also designed is comprised of three doors between two pilasters with garlands of oak and laurel and a balcony on two Corinthian columns.
The interior has a nave separated from the side aisles by Corinthian columns. The ceiling has magnificent gilded rosettes in white-ground coffering.

 

MEDICI CHAPEL

 

The Medici Chapels form part of the monumental complex of San Lorenzo, whose building history lasts from the first years of the fifteenth century until the early seventeenth. The church of San Lorenzo was the official church of the Medici from their period as private residents in their palace in Via Larga (now via Cavour), becoming their mausoleum up to the time of the extinction of the line. Giovanni de' Bicci de' Medici (died 1429) was the first who wished to be buried there with his wife Piccarda in the small Sacristy of Brunelleschi. Later, his son Cosimo the Elder, was buried in the crossing of the church. The project for a family tomb was conceived in 1520 when Michelangelo began work on the New Sacristy, corresponding to the Old Sacristy by Brunelleschi on the other side of the church.

 

ACCADEMIA

The ACCADEMIA MUSEUM was for a long time considered the deposit of the other Florentine galleries, notably the Uffizi and the collection has changed through the years also owing to the accession of works from the suppressed monastic houses. For many years Botticelli's Primavera was shown here.

 

 

Nowadays the gallery can take its place among the finest museums of Florence thanks to the high quality of some of its exhibits, among them Giovanni da Milano's Pieta (fourteenth century), the Annunciation by Lorenzo Monaco (fifteenth century), the beautiful front called Adimari Cassone showing a sumptuous marriage procession (c. 1450) and the Madonna of the Sea attributed to Botticelli (1445-1510).

A recent rearrangement and restoration of some of the rooms have given more space for the display of paintings from the fourteenth to the seventeenth centuries and public admittance to a spectacular room where are arranged plaster models of Lorenzo Bartolini and Luigi Pampaloni, Famous Italian sculptors of the nineteenth century.

The gallery became the focus of more attention in 1873 when Michelangelo's David was exhibited there for the first time in a specially constructed tribune. Brought there for reasons of conservation from Piazza Signoria where for almost four centuries it had represented the power and dignity of the Florentine Republic, it was joined at the beginning of this century by other Michelangelo sculptures

 

INFO

ACCADEMIA, via Ricasoli 68
Phone: 055-216261

 

OSPEDALE DEGLI INNOCENTI

 

Located right near the Accademia Museum, the Ospedale degli Innocenti (Foundling Hospital) and its portico (gallery) is one of the best-known and most important architectural complexes of the early fifteenth century in Florence. This was commissioned and financed by the Arte della Lana to the designs of Filippo Brunelleschi. The "hospital" aimed to raise abandoned children and teach them some useful trade enabling them to take their place in society. In the buildings of the refectory, cloisters, dormitories, infirmary, nurses’ rooms and porticoes, Brunelleschi created a perfect example of rational and harmonious hospital architecture subsequently enlarged and decorated with frescoes documenting the continuing activities of the institution and the favours of the reigning Medici family.

 

DAY 7 - PITTI PALACE - BOBOLI GARDENS - PIAZZALE MICHELANGELO – SAN MINIATO AL MONTE

 

Situated in the first great square in the area that the Florentines call "Diladdarno" - beyond the Arno - PALAZZO PITTI dominates uncontested at the feet of the small hill Boboli.

Its construction was commissioned in the second half of the 15th century by the banker Luca Bonaccorso Pitti to the famous architect Filippo Brunelleschi. The palace has had a long history of works of construction and of extensions, which have lasted about four centuries.

The first version of Palazzo Pitti had smaller body dimensions compared to the present one. The architectural Renaissance style, austere and balanced, was enriched by classical elements from the Doric, Ionic and Corinthian orders. The following extensions gave the Palace its present appearance. Around 1550 the Grand-Duke Cosimo I de' Medici purchased it to become the residence of the family and in 1558 he commissioned the works of refinement to Bartolomeo Ammannati who included large windows in the façade, called inginocchiate, and created the portico and thed courtyard. The construction and the creation of the great garden, named Boboli from the homonymous hill, were commissioned to Niccolò Tribolo.

Palazzo Pitti, which through time assumed different functions, is today the seat of important museums (Silvers, Chinawares, Costumes, Carriages, Gallery of Modern Art and the Garden of Boboli) through which it is possible to visit its halls, the displays of the court and the splendour of a faraway epoch which managed to pass down faithful and unchanged through history.

Info:
Palazzo Pitti: Piazza Pitti

Closed on Mondays

Admission:

£ 8000 the Modern Art Gallery (Galleria d'Arte Moderna) and the Costume Gallery (Galleria del Costume)

£ 4000 the Museum of Silver (Museo degli Argenti);

£ 4000 the Museum of Chinaware (Museo delle Porcellane) and the Boboli Garden (Giardino di Boboli).

Phone: 055/2388710

 

 

The Boboli Gardens extend between Palazzo Pitti, Forte Belvedere and the Porta Romania. It's the typical Italian garden that mixes architecturalized nature and natural architecture, hosting sculptures and plastics from antiquity to the 19th century.

Info:
Piazza Pitti

Hour: from May to October 9:00 a.m.- 8:00 p.m.

Ticket L. 4.000

 

WALKING ITINERARY….

 

Complete your tour with the magnificent panorama view of Florence you will able to enjoy from PIAZZALE MICHELANGELO, looking down onto the Arno and its bridges; on the left the view includes the large 19th century Cascine Parks, lower down the districts of Santo Spirito and San Frediano, to the right the white BASILICA OF SAN MINIATO AL MONTE.

 

 

OPTIONAL SIENA and SAN GIMIGNANO + ABBEY OF MONTE OLIVETO MAGGIORE  (with bus and guide tour or with your own car rental)

Continue onwards towards Siena a jewel among medieval townships.  No cars are allowed, so strolling through its narrow streets is very pleasant.  The Circular Piazza del Campo is where the Palio is run each summer.  This is probably one of Italy's most beautiful medieval city and a must.  Visit the Palazzo Pubblico - the Town Hall where the frescos of Simone Martini are displayed.  If you love art, a stop at the Pinacoteca Nazionale contains a superb collection of pre-Renaissance art.  Finally the Duomo visible from everywhere, representing one of the most monumental Gothic cathedrals of Italy.  The interior alone took 200 years to complete and is renown for its marble floors.  (Siena is worth a full day to be seen in depth - you may choose to do so - it can also be very cold in winter with cutting winds).

 

About 23 miles southeast from Siena is the Benedictine Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore; the most famous of  Tuscany.  It lies among cypress trees and woodlands and is only accessible by car.  Inside the main cloister are frescoes by Signorinelli and Il Sodoma.  The position of the Abbey makes it most impressive.  The views from the top are breath taking.

 

If there is a town that typifies everything one expects from Tuscany it is San Gimignano. San Gimignano was built during the Middle Ages and is remarkable for its high towers (14 in all remain standing) built by rival families to symbolize their power and political standing.  Originally it had 70.  The town is pedestrians only, and yes, there are many tourists, best time to visit would be late afternoon after all the buses have gone, and perhaps stay overnight in the area when it returns to its original state.

 

 

DAY 6 - FULL DAY CHAUFFEURED DRIVEN TOUR IN THE TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE

 

Your guide/driver will meet you at your hotel and discuss with you the details of the trip. Here is a suggested itinerary, however we can of course customize and fine-tune the tour as you prefer. There is also a tour focused on the Brunello region, in the southern part of Tuscany or the medieval tour, the Etruscan tour and others. Please inquire for more information.

 

 

 

         This unique experience will surely be one of the most loved memories of this trip to Italy

The Chianti is a particularly beautiful area of Tuscany renowned for its wine appellation, one of the oldest in Europe. The tour could begin with a visit to Brolio Castle that today is one of the region’s finest wine producers where it is said the formula for Chianti Classico wine was developed. Then visit the medieval hill town of Radda and then in a ceramic studio where traditional throwing and coil construction methods are still used.

The tour includes the following services:

§         Driver/guide with car provided

§         Wine tasting

§         Lunch in a typical Tuscan trattoria or restaurant

§         Visits of ancient castles, villas, cellars as well as a complete experience of the countryside and medieval hill towns. 

 

These itineraries are custom designed for us only.

 

STOPS

SIENA

CASTELLINA IN CHIANTI*         (village of the 6th/7th centuries A.C)

RADDA IN CHIANTI*          

BORGO DI VOLPAIA                (visit to the vineyards, wine tasting, lunch at an inn)

BADIA A COLTIBUONO *          (abbey constructed in the 11th C.)

CASTELLO DI SPALTENNA *

CASTELLO DI MELETO *          (medieval castle of the 13 th C.)

CASTELLO DI BROLIO*            (you can admire a very nice view of Siena)

CASTELNUOVO BERARDENGA

PIANELLA

S.SANO *                                (photographic itineraries)

LECCHI IN CHIANTI                  (wine tasting)

CASTELLO DI BROLIO *

S.GUSME’

CASTELNUOVO BERARDENGA

 

Duration of the tour: approximate 8 hours, including the lunch break.

 

At the end of the day you will be driven to the train station to head back to Rome

 

DAY 7 – BACK TO ROME IN THE AFTERNOON OR EVENING

 

DAY 8 -  RETURN HOME