Florence, the spectacular capital of the region of Tuscany, is located on Italy’s northwest coast. It is a stunning medieval city divided into two parts by the River Arno that flows from the Apennines through Florence and Pisa and on to the Ligurian Sea. Florence is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world with its overflow of palaces, churches and museums filled with masterful paintings and sculptures. Apart from the overwhelming art and cultural treasures, the city offers one of the Italy’s most atmospheric and pleasant places to visit. The streets of Florence radiate the charm of Italian culture. It has a wonderful countryside, featuring picturesque villages and vineyards, making for a perfect day excursion. In close distance, you can visit Siena, once Florence’s rival in artistic and political dominance, and Pisa, world famous for it’s leaning tower. Plus, from Florence you can easily reach the Italian coast with its beautiful beaches, while Rome and Milan, the “capital of fashion”, are in short distance.
Day 1 arrival and day at leisure
Arrival at Florence airport, where you are met and transferred to the 4 star HotelPitti Palace al Ponte Vechio (or similar 4 star hotel) with accommodation in superior room including breakfast daily.
Day at leisure to explore the city center
Day 2 Best of Florence Tour
Skip the line to see Michelangelo’s ‘David’ at the Accademia Gallery before enjoying a 3-hour walking tour of Florence. Led by an expert guide, experience world-famous artwork and the Renaissance city’s top attractions, including the Florence Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio. As you go, gain insight about Florentine art and architecture from your guide, with audio headsets provided so that you hear everything clearly. Numbers are limited to 25 on this tour to ensure a small-group experience. Begin your walking tour with skip-the-line entrance inside the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s David. Marvel at the lifelike contours of the 17-foot sculpture and see why this creation has become of the most iconic in the world. Afterward, continue on a 3-hour walking tour of the city. Your guide will point out architecture from the Middle Ages and Renaissance, as well as provide historical commentary and local lore about the sites that you pass. See the Florence Duomo, peering up at Brunelleschi’s Dome, the most famous structure in the Florentine skyline. Enter inside the impressive Cathedral to explore (entry may be restricted on Sundays and religious holidays) before admiring Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery. Delve deeper into Florence’s rich history with a visit to the medieval Palazzo Vecchio and the Church of Orsanmichele to witness statues by famed artists such as Donatello, Ghiberti and Verrocchio. You’ll also pass the grand exterior of the Uffizi Gallery, filled with Renaissance masterpieces from Botticelli, da Vinci and other greats. Visit the former Ancient Forum, now Piazza della Repubblica. Don’t forget to rub the nose of the legendary boar statute, il Porcellino, promising your return to Florence! Your tour will conclude in Lungarno, facing the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge.