Tuscan Trails: Florence & Cinque Terre 2024

• Be charmed by Pietrasanta, the “City of Artists”
• Snap that iconic photo as the Leaning Tower of Pisa
• There’s plenty to do in the walled city of Lucca

We say farewell to La Spezia this morning and journey back in time to when narrow medieval streets, charming piazzas, and grand cathedrals were the norm. On the coast of northern Tuscany, you’ll find the sweet town of Pietrasanta, often referred to as the “City of Artists” thanks to its tradition as a hot spot of sculptors and artists. Perhaps that has something to do with the renowned Carrara marble quarries nearby, which have supplied marble for some of the world’s most iconic sculptures and buildings. This historically charming town is brimming with sculptures, an open-air gallery, and stunning buildings.

Next up is a place that needs little to no introduction. Many have journeyed to Pisa over the years to see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Now it’s your turn. You have time here to explore the other beauties of this wonderful city, including exploring the Piazza dei Miracoli (the Square of Miracles), take a jaunt along the Arno River, visit the Camposanto Monumentale, discover the many churches of Pisa, and simply enjoy the local cuisine.

Our final stop of the day is the charming walled city of Lucca. Here you’ll find a delightful blend of historical, cultural, and scenic attractions. Maybe you’ll walk along the city walls. Perhaps you’ll visit the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. Or find yourself in one of Lucca’s beautiful churches – perhaps the Cathedral of St Martin.

We then head into the bustling city of Florence, your overnight stay for the next two nights. (B)

Accommodation: Hotel Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio or similar, Florence

• After a guided walk of the city, you have the whole day to explore the wonderous Florence

Ah, Florence. An artistic masterpiece. The city of Florence is a treasure trove of art, architectural wonders, culinary delights, historic charm, and cultural richness. After a guided city walk in the morning, you have the rest of the day to explore and, trust us, you’ll want to plan ahead to make the most of your time.

Perhaps you’ll go to the Uffizi Gallery or the Accademia Gallery to gaze upon some of the world’s most celebrated pieces of artwork, works by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Maybe you’ll grab your camera and wander the charming, cobbled streets, snapping shots of medieval buildings, hidden squares, and charming locals. You turn a corner and are dwarfed by the Florence Duomo, taken in by its grandeur. Time to wander up to the top for the ultimate view of Florence. One thing that’s been on your list is to explore local markets and restaurants, and stuff your face with local delights like bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine Steak) and ribollita.

As the day comes to a close, you grab your favourite flavour of gelato and stroll across the Ponte Vecchio with a view of the lovely Arno River. (B)

Included Activities: Florence walking tour, local guide (2 hours)

Accommodation: Hotel Pitti Palace al Ponte Vecchio or similar, Florence

• Why not sample Bolognese sauce in the place it was invented… Bologna
• Enjoy a picturesque walk in the village of Grazzano Visconti

Our final day but there’s still so much to get through. We first head to the city of Bologna, where you have plenty of time to explore and grab a bite to eat for lunch. We know what you’re thinking… Bologna… as in Bolognese? Yes, as in rich, delicious Bolognese sauce. Where better to grab a pasta Bolognese than in the place where it was invented?

Bologna is a feast for the palette. Wander the winding market streets, pick out some fresh produce from cheese to cured meats, perfectly ripe fruit to a packet of handmade pasta to take home with you. Grab a snack and head to the Piazza Maggiore. Take a seat on the steps of impressive buildings like the Basilica di San Petronio and Palazzo Comunale. This city has a wealth of medieval and Renaissance architecture, not to mention museums and art galleries.

After a lively morning and delicious lunch in Bologna, we head to Grazzano Visconti. This picturesque medieval village was designed by Giuseppe Visconti in the 20th century as a way to glimpse into medieval Italian life. The architecture and layout of the village reflect the charm of the past, from cobblestoned streets to stone buildings, and Visconti Castle at its centre.

Time to say goodbye to the past and re-enter the present as we head back to Milan. But worry not, those memories and souvenirs and photos can take you back there any time. (B)