4-Star Luxury Regional Tour: Florence (9 Days - 8 Nights) Region: Toscana

Why Choose This Trip:

Renaissance Art:
Florence, the heart of the Renaissance, showcases masterpieces like Michelangelo's David and the Uffizi Gallery.

Enchanting Landscapes:
The Tuscan countryside, with its rolling hills, vineyards, and sunflower fields, is perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Traditional Cuisine:
Savor famous Tuscan dishes such as Florentine steak, ribollita, and cantucci.

Prestigious Wines:
Experience the region's renowned wines, including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Historic Cities:
Explore the rich history and culture of cities like Siena, Pisa, and Lucca.

Medieval Villages:
Visit picturesque villages like San Gimignano and Monteriggioni, which are prime examples of preserved medieval architecture.

Thermal Baths and Relaxation:
Relax in Tuscany's natural hot springs, such as those in Saturnia, known for their healing sulfuric waters.

Festivals and Traditions:
Enjoy cultural events such as the Palio di Siena and the Viareggio Carnival.

Local Craftsmanship:
Appreciate Tuscan craftsmanship, especially in leatherworking and ceramics, which is renowned worldwide.

Nature Excursions:
Discover wonderful nature trails, including those in the Apuan Alps and Chianti.

Historic Architecture:
Admire numerous examples of historic architecture, from Romanesque churches to Renaissance palaces.

Authentic Culture:
Experience the authentic Italian culture and traditions that Tuscany preserves.

UNESCO Sites in Tuscany:

• Historic Centre of Florence
• Piazza del Duomo in Pisa
• Historic Centre of San Gimignano
• Historic Centre of Siena
• Historic Centre of Pienza
• Val d'Orcia
• Medici Villas and Gardens in Tuscany (including several sites across the region)
• Mercury Mines of Monte Amiata (part of the transnational site "Heritage of Mercury. Almadén and Idrija")

Tuscany offers an authentically Italian experience, preserving its rich traditions and culture.

Description Tuscany: A Tapestry of History, Art, and Nature

Located in the heart of Italy, Tuscany is a true treasure trove of natural beauty, historical richness, and artistic brilliance. The air here is filled with history, the scent of vineyards and olive groves, and a cultural heritage that has profoundly influenced the world of art.

The Cities of Tuscany: Architectural Gems

Florence:
Known as the cradle of the Renaissance, Florence stands proudly along the Arno River, featuring the iconic Duomo with Brunelleschi's dome, the historic Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery, home to priceless artworks by Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Botticelli.

Pisa:
Famous for its Leaning Tower and the stunning Piazza dei Miracoli.

Lucca:
Enchants with its ancient Renaissance walls, now a lively boulevard perfect for walking or cycling.

Beyond Florence:

Siena:
Renowned for its distinctive skyline dominated by the Duomo's bell tower and the Torre del Mangia. The Piazza del Campo, known for the Palio, serves as a magnificent open-air theatre reflecting ancient traditions.

Val d'Orcia:
A region of breathtaking landscapes with rolling hills, cypress trees, and medieval villages. Montepulciano and Pienza are prime examples, with their stone streets, Renaissance palaces, and stunning vistas.

Volterra:
An ancient Etruscan city, celebrated for its rich history and alabaster craftsmanship.

Arezzo:
Home to the Piazza Grande, Romanesque churches, and masterpieces by Piero della Francesca, adding another piece to the Tuscan mosaic.

Tuscany Beyond the Art Cities:

The coastline offers golden beaches and dramatic cliffs, while the inland areas reveal treasures like the Casentino forests or the natural hot springs of Saturnia, where rejuvenating warm waters emerge from the earth.

Culinary Excellence:

Indulge in the gastronomic delights, from fine wines like Chianti and Brunello to culinary specialties such as ribollita, Florentine steak, and cantucci with vin santo.

Conclusion:
Tuscany is a land of contrasts and harmonies, where every place tells a story, each flavor evokes tradition, and every landscape sings a hymn to beauty. Visiting Tuscany means immersing oneself in a rich sensory experience, a journey through centuries of history, art, and nature. It’s a journey that, once taken, remains etched in the heart forever.

Program:

Flexibility and Customization for a Tailored Experience

Our itinerary has been carefully designed to offer you a rich and engaging experience, featuring visits to fascinating and culturally significant destinations. However, we understand that every traveler is unique, and flexibility is key to ensuring your vacation is enjoyable and relaxing.

We are always available to make any necessary adjustments so that the itinerary perfectly aligns with your pace and preferences or to accommodate unforeseen circumstances such as traffic delays or other unexpected events. Our goal is to maintain the highest standards of quality, allowing you to savor every moment of your journey.

Additionally, you can choose to have lunch whenever it is most convenient for you, ensuring that your experience remains comfortable and enjoyable in every aspect.

1st DAY: HOME - ROME

Morning:
A personal driver-guide will be waiting for you at Fiumicino International Airport - Rome. Check-in at a 4-star luxury hotel in a superior room.

Afternoon:
Relax and enjoy some free time to explore or unwind.

Evening:
Gourmet dinner at the hotel or a high-class restaurant. Rome by Night: Private car tour with a guide, featuring monuments such as the Colosseum, Arch of Constantine, Aventine Hill, Circus Maximus, Mouth of Truth, and more.

After Dinner:
Enjoy a tasting of a traditional Roman dessert at one of the most renowned pastry shops.

Night:
Overnight stay in a luxury hotel. The guide is always available for any needs.

2nd DAY: FLORENCE "The UNESCO World Heritage Historic Center"

Morning:
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel. Departure for Florence with our driver-guide. Walking tour of the historic center: Explore the Basilica of Santa Croce, Pazzi Chapel, and the historic Piazza della Signoria.

Afternoon:
Tuscan lunch at a traditional restaurant. Continue your visit: Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Basilica of Santa Maria Novella, San Marco Museum with frescoes by Beato Angelico.

Evening:
Check-in at a 4-star luxury hotel in a superior room in Florence. Dinner at the hotel or an option for dinner at a high-class restaurant recommended by the Gambero Rosso guide. Alternatively, enjoy dinner at a traditional Tuscan restaurant to experience local cuisine.

After Dinner:
Florence by Night: Private panoramic car tour. Visit Piazzale Michelangelo, San Miniato al Monte, and other enchanting places like Scandicci, the Certosa, and Fiesole.

Night:
Overnight stay in a luxury hotel in Florence. The driver-guide is always available for any needs.

3rd DAY: FLORENCE "The Uffizi Gallery and Pitti Palace"

Morning:
Wake up in a Superior room in a 4-star luxury hotel in Florence.
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel.
Guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery, one of the world's most prestigious museums, showcasing masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and many others.

Afternoon:
Tuscan lunch at a high-class traditional restaurant.
Guided tour of some of Florence's most iconic landmarks: the Ponte Vecchio, Pitti Palace, and the magnificent Boboli Gardens.

Evening:
Return to your Superior room in your 4-star luxury hotel.
Dinner at the hotel or choose to dine at a high-class restaurant. For meat lovers, there's an option for a traditional restaurant to savor the famous Florentine steak.
Free evening to explore the city or relax at the hotel. A guide is always available.

Night:
Overnight stay in a Superior room in Florence.

4th DAY: LUCCA and PISA "The Leaning Tower"

Morning:
Wake up in a Superior room of a 4-star luxury hotel in Florence.
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel.
Depart for Lucca, the city of 100 churches, and a guided tour through its historic walls and squares.

Afternoon:
Lunch in one of Lucca's typical trattorias.
Visit to Pisa, famous for its iconic Leaning Tower and the Cathedral complex.
Continue to Siena, the medieval heart of Tuscany.

Evening:
Check-in to a Superior room at a 4-star luxury hotel in Montepulciano (Siena).
Dinner at the hotel or opt for a meal at a high-class restaurant.
Free evening to explore the city or relax at the hotel. A guide is always available.

Night:
Overnight stay in a Superior room in Montepulciano.

5th DAY: VOLTERRA & SIENA, THE MEDIEVAL SOUL OF TUSCANY

Morning:
Wake up in a Superior room of a 4-star luxury hotel in Montepulciano (Siena).
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel.
Departure for Volterra with a guide.
Guided tour of Volterra, exploring the Roman Theatre, Art Gallery, and the Etruscan Museum.
Tasting Experience: Dive into the flavors of Volterra by savoring traditional sweets like "panforte" and "ricciarelli" in a historic pastry shop.

Afternoon:
Lunch in a typical Volterran restaurant with breathtaking views of the valley.
Depart for Siena and a guided tour of the city, visiting the famous Cathedral, Piazza del Campo, and the Public Palace.
Relax with a traditional coffee in the historic center of Siena.

Evening:
Return to your room in Montepulciano.
Dinner at the hotel or choose a high-class restaurant. Alternatively, dine in a typical Sienese restaurant and savor "pici" pasta.
After Dinner: Discover Siena by night with a private car, admiring the city under a starry sky.

Night:
Overnight stay in a Superior room in Montepulciano (Siena).

6th DAY: AREZZO & MONTEPULCIANO

Morning:
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel.
Destination Arezzo: Visit the city with its historic squares and fascinating churches.

Afternoon:
Tuscan lunch in a traditional Arezzo restaurant.
Journey to Montepulciano, renowned for its wine and Renaissance architecture.
Tasting Experience: Savor the authentic flavors of Montepulciano through a tasting of local products and wines.

Evening:
Return to your room in Montepulciano.
Dinner at the hotel or choose a high-class restaurant. Alternatively, dine in a gourmet restaurant to relish refined dishes.
After Dinner: Enjoy the magic of Arezzo by night, with a car tour to admire the city's lights and charm.

Night:
Overnight stay in a Superior room in Montepulciano (Siena).

7th DAY: SAN GIMIGNANO & SURROUNDINGS

Morning:
Wake up in your hotel in Montepulciano.
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel.
Destination San Gimignano: Visit the famous medieval village, explore its towers, and stroll through Piazza della Cisterna and Piazza del Duomo.

Afternoon:
Typical Tuscan lunch in a traditional restaurant in Casole D'Elsa.
Journey to Colle Val D'Elsa, the "City of Crystal."
Tasting Experience: Savor the authentic flavors of Colle Val D'Elsa with a visit to the Crystal Museum and a walk in the historic center.

Evening:
Return to your room in Montepulciano.
Dinner at the hotel or opt for a high-class restaurant recommended by the Gambero Rosso guide. Alternatively, dine in a gourmet restaurant to enjoy traditional Tuscan dishes.
After Dinner: Enjoy the magic of Siena by night, with a car tour admiring the city's lights and charm.

Night:
Overnight stay in a Superior room in Montepulciano (Siena) at your 4-star luxury hotel.

8th DAY: VAL D'ORCIA, PIENZA, SAN QUIRICO D'ORCIA, SANT'ANTIMO, MONTALCINO

Morning:
Wake up in your Superior room at a 4-star luxury hotel in Montepulciano (Siena).
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel.
With your guide, start your day exploring the splendid Pienza, known as the "ideal city" of the Renaissance, followed by a visit to San Quirico d’Orcia, with its impeccably maintained gardens and historic churches.

Afternoon:
Tuscan lunch in a panoramic restaurant in Val d'Orcia.
Visit the Abbey of Sant’Antimo, known for its Gregorian chants and the serenity it offers. Continue to Montalcino, the heart of Brunello.
Tasting Experience: Dive into the world of Tuscan wine with a Brunello di Montalcino DOCG tasting in a historic cellar.

Evening:
Return to your room in Montepulciano (Siena).
Dinner at the hotel or opt for a high-class restaurant recommended by the famous Gambero Rosso guide. Alternatively, experience dinner in a typical restaurant to savor traditional dishes.
Free evening to relax or further explore the city with your ever-available guide.

Night:
Overnight stay at the hotel in Montepulciano (Siena).

9th Day: Rome - The End of a Magnificent Adventure

Morning (if departure is in the morning or late morning):
Wake up in your Superior room at a 4-star luxury hotel in Casole D'Elsa (Siena).
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast, you will have time to prepare for your departure to Rome at your leisure.
Transfer to the Airport: We will accompany you to Rome airport, ensuring a comfortable and carefree journey.

Morning (if departure is in the afternoon or late afternoon):
Wake up in your Superior room at a 4-star luxury hotel in Casole D'Elsa (Siena).
Gourmet breakfast at the hotel.
Free Time in Casole D'Elsa: Take advantage of the morning hours to explore the surroundings, take a relaxing walk, or simply enjoy the comfort of your hotel.
Lunch Offered by Elite Italy Getaways: We invite you to a special lunch, on us, in a selected restaurant to savor the tastes of local cuisine.
Transfer to the Airport: For those departing in the afternoon, we will ensure a comfortable transfer to Rome airport.

For All Guests:
Guide at Your Disposal: Our driver-guide will be at your disposal until 21:00 to assist you with every need, both during the transfer to the airport and for any other requirement.
Important Note: As a token of gratitude for choosing Elite Italy Getaways, all expenses for this day, including lunch and any visits, will be entirely on us. We hope these small gestures contribute to making your trip unforgettable.

Thank you for traveling with us, and we hope to welcome you again on another extraordinary Italian adventure.

Warm regards, Elite Italy Getaways

A Hug from Tuscany

Dear Future Guests,

As you prepare to immerse yourselves in the magic of Tuscany, let me give you a glimpse of what awaits you in this legendary land. Tuscany is more than just a region; it's an experience for the soul, a mosaic of sensations blending into a single, unforgettable symphony.

Your steps will lead you through golden vineyards and ancient olive groves, where the robust flavor of the oil and the enveloping bouquet of our wines will speak to you of centuries of tradition and passion. Breathe in the air of the small hilltop villages, where each stone, each corner, whispers tales of love and ancient legends.

Let yourselves be seduced by the art cities, such as Florence, Siena, and Pisa, where every artistic masterpiece, from a Botticelli fresco to a Michelangelo statue, tells the epic story of the Renaissance that changed the world. Listen to the silence of the countryside, broken only by the song of birds or the sound of a distant bell.

But Tuscany is not just landscapes and art. It's an encounter with genuine people, who will welcome you with pride and warmth, sharing with you the secrets of a cuisine that has won over palates in every corner of the globe. It's the scent of freshly baked focaccia, the warmth of a village festival, the joy of a dance under the stars.

I invite you, then, to be not just visitors, but to become part of this enchanting tale, to weave your own story in the heart of Tuscany. And as we await you with eager anticipation, we wish you a journey that is a hug for the soul, a song for the heart, and an eternal memory to carry with you.

With all the love and passion that our land can offer,

Elite Italy Getaways

Participation Fee for a Luxury 4-Star Hotel Stay in a Superior Room

Number of Participants: Minimum: 2 people Maximum: 8 people

Cost Per Person: $15,670.00 for a party of 2

Additional Costs: Single Supplement $1,150.00 for those desiring a single room

 

Included in the Rate:

• Accommodation in a Luxury 4-Star Hotel in a Superior room as scheduled.
• Buffet breakfasts.
• 8 lunches in typical restaurants.
• 8 gourmet dinners at the hotels where you will stay or, if otherwise indicated, in upscale restaurants selected from the "Il Gambero Rosso" guide.
• A bilingual driver-guide  with a luxury car, available for the entire duration of the tour.
• All the entrances planned in the Tour are included in the price.
• Taxes and VAT.
• City taxes.
• Evening excursions.

Not Included: Beverages and anything not expressly mentioned in the "Included in the Rate" section.

 

 

 

 

Entrace Schedule for Florence and Surrounding Areas

Florence:

• Pazzi Chapel
• Palazzo Vecchio
• Giotto's Bell Tower
• San Marco Museum
• Uffizi Gallery
• Pitti Palace
• Boboli Gardens
• Santa Maria Novella

Arezzo:

• Petrarch's House
• Roman Amphitheatre

Pienza:

• Palazzo Piccolomini

Siena:

• Cathedral
• Baptistry
• Piccolomini Library
• Crypt

Pisa:

• Baptistry

Lucca:

• Palazzo Pfanner

Note: The scheduled visits may be inverted over the various days depending on the opening hours of the museums or for technical needs, but the program remains unchanged.

Our 4-Star Luxury Hotels in Superior Rooms

Rome: Hotel Artemide or a similar establishment
This 4-star luxury hotel, nestled in the heart of Rome, offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Hotel Artemide is known for its elegant rooms, each designed with a focus on comfort and style. Guests can indulge in a rich breakfast buffet, relax in the rooftop bar with panoramic views of the city, and unwind in the exclusive spa. The hotel's central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Rome's iconic landmarks, ensuring a memorable stay.

Florence: Hotel Palazzo Castri 1874 or a similar establishment
Hotel Palazzo Castri 1874, a 4-star luxury hotel in Florence, provides a perfect blend of historic elegance and contemporary luxury. Located close to Florence's main attractions, it features beautifully restored rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the lush garden, relax in the spa with its indoor pool, and start their day with a sumptuous breakfast overlooking the courtyard. This hotel ensures a tranquil and luxurious retreat in the heart of Florence.

Montepulciano: Hotel Sicille Relais or a similar establishment
This 4-star luxury hotel in Montepulciano offers a unique Tuscan experience. Hotel Sicille Relais is set amidst rolling hills and vineyards, providing a peaceful and picturesque setting. Each Superior room is tastefully decorated, combining rustic charm with modern comfort. Guests can savor local wines and cuisine in the hotel's restaurant, enjoy scenic views from the terrace, and explore the surrounding countryside. The hotel's serene environment and high-quality service make it a perfect choice for a relaxing getaway.

These 4-star luxury hotels, or similar establishments, ensure an extraordinary travel experience, combining maximum luxury with exclusive locations and impeccable services. If one of the mentioned hotels is not available, a 4-star luxury hotel in a Superior room of similar quality will be provided to ensure an equally pleasant stay.

Our Fleet for Your 4-Star Luxury Tour:

Experience an exclusive and serene journey aboard our luxury vehicles. Each car is accompanied by an attendant available for 12 hours a day, ensuring a refined experience and superior comfort.

Enjoy the refined elegance of our transport services as you explore your destination in style.

Luxury Cars:

Mercedes-Benz E
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

BMW 5 Series
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

Audi A6
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

Jaguar XF
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

Volvo S90
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

Lexus GS
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

8-Seater Cars:

Mercedes-Benz Van V Class Luxury
Specifications: 8 Passengers – 8 Suitcases – 10 Hand Luggage

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 315 Luxury
Specifications: 8 Passengers – 8 Suitcases – 10 Hand Luggage

Extra Luxury Cars (With Separate Quote):

Mercedes Class 300
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

BMW 740 XD
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

Audi A8
Specifications: 2 Passengers – 2 Suitcases – 3 Hand Luggage

The vehicles we offer are carefully selected to represent the utmost in luxury, comfort, and safety. Paired with our expert bilingual attendants, we guarantee a service tailored to your preferences, making your tour through the enchanting regions of Italy truly unforgettable.

Preferences and Special Requests:
We recognize that individual tastes vary. Therefore, we encourage our guests to specify their preferred vehicle and we will strive to meet every request. Our goal is to customize your journey according to your desires, taking care of every detail with the highest level of attention, ensuring an extraordinary and impeccable travel experience.

 

 

I certify that my review is my honest opinion and have no personal or professional relationships.