Expedition Details

Immerse yourself in the lively rhythms of life in Italy on an unforgettable journey to some of its lesser known treasures. Walk between the picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, explore the Carrara quarries where Michelangelo chose his blocks of marble, and settle into a restored medieval castle to discover traditional Tuscany. Delve into the cultural centers of Florence and Siena, and step behind the scenes on an insider's tour of Rome.

Trip Highlights

• Walk through terraced vineyards and charming seaside villages tucked into the dramatic slopes of Cinque Terre.
• Gaze at Michelangelo's astonishing Sistine Chapel frescoes on an after-hours visit to the Vatican Museums.
• Stay in a private 13th-century castle in Tuscany while exploring the surrounding towns.
• Discover the town of Lucca on foot or ride a bike ride atop its medieval city walls.

Itinerary - 11 Days

Days 1 & 2 — U.S./Pisa, Italy/Portovenere

Depart for Pisa and arrive the next morning. Drive to the charming town of Portovenere on Italy's Ligurian coast and check in to our hotel. Take a stroll through town before our welcome reception and dinner.
Grand Hotel Portovenere (D)

Day 3 — Cinque Terre

Nestled in the folds of a rugged coastline, the five pastel-hued villages of Cinque Terre tumble picturesquely from the rocky cliffs to the sea. Travel through steep, vine-covered hills to Manarolo, and set out along a coastal walking path that links the villages. Follow the trail as it winds along the hillside to Riomaggiore, offering incomparable views, and learn about the history and geology of this rugged region from our guide. In Riomaggiore, board a local ferry and cruise north to Vernazza to take in the stunning coastline from a different perspective. Enjoy lunch on your own in Vernazza — a village open to pedestrians only. This afternoon, take a more vigorous hike or return to Portovenere for time at leisure.
Grand Hotel Portovenere (B,D)

Day 4 — Carrara/Lucca/Florence

Begin the day in Carrara, home to the marble quarries where Michelangelo selected the massive blocks that he transformed into masterpieces. Here, walls of shining white marble soar skyward, cut out of the mountains and accessible only by narrow switchbacks. Continue to the lovely walled city of Lucca and set out on a walking tour highlighting its Romanesque churches. Ride a bicycle atop the city walls or take advantage of free time to explore the town. Arrive in Florence, and enjoy an evening on your own.
Hotel Brunelleschi (B)

Day 5 — Florence

Take a morning walking tour of the historic center of Florence. In Piazza della Repubblica, discover the city's beginnings as a Roman settlement. Stroll through narrow streets past the fortified houses and towers that marked the medieval town, and emerge onto the open Piazza della Signoria, the political center of the city since the Middle Ages. Immerse yourself in the world of Michelangelo this afternoon. Visit San Lorenzo, the parish church of the Medici family — Michelangelo's patrons — to view the Medici Tombs and the Chapel of the Princes. Finally, encounter Michelangelo's peerless "David" and the evocative "Prisoners" at the Accademia.
Hotel Brunelleschi (B,D)

Day 6 — Florence/Gargonza

Travel south into the Chianti region, stopping to explore some of its most charming villages. Visit the renowned Badia a Coltibuono vineyard for a wine tasting and lunch. Then continue to Gargonza, a medieval hamlet superbly situated in the Tuscan countryside. This afternoon, settle into the private 13th-century castle of Count and Countess Guicciardini — your home for the next three nights. Take the rest of the day to read; relax; and enjoy the swimming pool, tucked into an olive grove with a glorious view.
Castello di Gargonza (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Siena

A short drive brings us to the Tuscan gem of Siena. Soak up the medieval flavor of the city on a walking tour that includes the Piazza del Campo; the Palazzo Pubblico; and the colorful, marble-clad cathedral. Stop for lunch on your own in one of Siena's many trattorias, and spend the afternoon exploring at leisure.
Castello di Gargonza (B,D)

Day 8 — Tuscan Countryside

Venture into the Tuscan countryside on a morning hike through the scenic landscape around the castle. During a free afternoon at the castle, stroll the gardens, relax by the pool, or try your hand at a game of bocce. Later, you may join the castle's chef for a cooking lesson and a tasting of several fine local vintages.
Castello di Gargonza (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Pienza/Rome

Drive through gorgeous scenery on the way to Pienza, an architectural treasure trove. Stroll through the heart of the town before sampling local specialties such as pici (hand-rolled pasta) and fresh pecorino cheese. Continue to Rome, arriving in the afternoon. Head into Vatican City to visit massive St. Peter's Basilica. Within its walls are the priceless works of Renaissance and baroque masters, including Raphael, Michelangelo, and Bernini. Take advantage of a rare opportunity to visit the Vatican Museums after hours and examine the masterpieces without the crowds. Our specially arranged visit culminates in the breathtaking, fully restored Sistine Chapel.
Grand Hotel de la Minerve (B,L)

Day 10 — Rome

On a morning walking tour, visit the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, and the Trevi Fountain. Then examine archaeological finds on a tour inspired by the July 2006 National Geographic magazine article "In Rome's Basement." After lunch on your own, stroll through the ancient Forum and the Colosseum. Toast your journey at a grand Roman farewell dinner tonight.
Grand Hotel de la Minerve (B,D)

Day 11 — Rome/U.S.

Transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
(B)

Optional Extension

• Rome and Venice - Post-Trip Extension, 4 Days

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• Sicily's Ancient Treasures
• Tuscany Family Adventure

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