Indulge yourself in the unforgettable flavors and vistas of Italy as you travel through the hill-towns and vineyards of Tuscany and Umbria. From the Renaissance treasures of Florence to the grape-laden groves of Siena and all the way to the chocolate hub of Perugia, you will encounter only spectacular scenery and decadent cuisine every step of the way.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 - Florence

Your tour begins with an overnight flight to Florence.

Day 2 - Florence

Go Ahead representative welcomes you at the airport and escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for strolling the cobbled streets and bridges of Florence. This evening, become acquainted with your fellow travelers as well as the region’s famed cuisine at this evening’s Welcome Dinner. (B in flight, D)

Day 3 - Florence

Discover the timeless city of Florence, birthplace of opera and the Italian language. Today’s guided tour introduces you to the city’s Renaissance splendor. Marvel at Brunelleschi’s masterpiece—Florence’s massive pink, white and green Duomo. Then enter the church of Santa Croce, where the tombs of Galileo and Michelangelo as well as the Dante Memorial are displayed. This afternoon, learn to make cuisine the Italian way at a private Tuscan cooking class. Then enjoy the freshly prepared meal with your fellow chefs. (B, D)

Day 4 - Florence

Bask in a free day to explore the Renaissance City on your own. Browse the shops of the Ponte Vecchio or simply people-watch as you sample some tasty gelato. Or opt to join a pastoral excursion to the walled city of Lucca and Colle Verde, a rural farm where olive oil is pressed. Tonight, join an optional dinner at a historic trattoria-style restaurant in the heart of Florence’s old town. (B)

$115 USD

Florentine Dinner Sit back as you sip a glass of wine and are charmed by the rustic beauty that is Florence, the Tuscan capital, on this traditional Tuscan dinner.

$99 USD

Lucca & Colle Verde This half-day excursion brings you to Lucca, an inviting Italian town, then to Colle Verde, a rural retreat and farm. During your half-day excursion, learn about the process by which olive oil is extracted and refined. Then enjoy a light lunch and an olive oil tasting session.

Day 5 - Siena

En route to the enchanting city of Siena, stop in San Gimignano, “the city of beautiful towers.” Take in views of glorious scenery before continuing to a local wine tasting, where you’ll have the opportunity to sample some of the region’s finest wines. Arrive in Siena in time for this evening’s included dinner. (B, D)

Day 6 - Siena

Follow a local expert guide on this morning’s tour of Siena, longtime rival of nearby Florence. Visit Siena’s Romanesque Duomo, which houses major works of art by Donatello and Nicola Pisano. Walk along medieval streets to the Piazza del Campo. Each summer, daredevils race horses bareback around this main piazza during the famed Palio. This afternoon, travel through vineyards and olive groves to the hilltop town of Montalcino, famous for its Brunello di Montalcino wine. Enjoy the opportunity to taste this local treasure before continuing to the nearby Abbey of Sant’Antimo. (B)

Day 7 - Perugia

Continue your travels across the Italian landscape to reach Cortona, perched on a Tuscan hillside for panoramic views of the plains below. Meander through the steep, narrow streets and look for the remains of the original city wall before a visit to the city’s museum. After a visit to Lake Trasimeno, savor an included lunch of traditional Umbrian cuisine. Before reaching the Umbrian hub of Perugia, a town revered for its chocolate, pay a visit to the chocolate factory just outside of town. (B, L)

Day 8 - Perugia

A local guide introduces you to Perugia, the medieval town symbolized by the Etruscan Arch. See the Palazzo dei Priori, the gorgeous medieval palace begun in 1298, and the gothic Church of St. Pietro in Vincoli, which maintains its original, 10th-century layout. This afternoon, enjoy a guided sightseeing of the Eurochocolate festival where you'll indulge in a delicious chocolate tasting. (B)

Day 9 - Rome

Journey across the Umbrian valleys en route to Rome. Stop in Orvieto, where a local guide introduces you to this rustic city. Visit the town’s cathedral, then sample some of the region’s vintages during a wine tasting. Arrive in Rome in time for our Farewell Dinner. (B, D)

Day 10 - Rome

Extend your stay in Rome for two additional nights or board your flight home. (B)