Infos

1. Arrival - Overnight in Montecatini Terme
Guests arrive in Montecatini Terme, a renowned spa town in Tuscany, known for its thermal waters and elegant early 20th-century architecture. The first overnight stay provides time to settle in and prepare for the journey ahead.

2. San Gimignano & Volterra - Overnight in Montecatini Terme
San Gimignano, often called the “Town of Fine Towers,” has preserved its medieval architecture, effectively functioning as an open-air museum. The town is also home to one of Italy’s oldest gelaterias, where the celebrated gelato maker, Mr. Dondoli, produces distinctive flavors famour worldwide. A lunch stop at a family-run farmhouse introduces guests to saffron cultivation and regional dishes flavored with this prized spice. The day continues to Volterra, an ancient Etruscan settlement situated on a hilltop, offering expansive views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside and a rich historical atmosphere.

3. Tasting the Chianti Valley - Overnight in Montecatini Terme
The Chianti region is renowned for its rolling vineyards and picturesque landscapes. The day includes a visit to a local farmhouse, where guests can tour the wine cellar and explore the vineyards. A tasting session follows, featuring homemade olive oil with bruschetta, regional wines, assorted salumi, and Pecorino cheese, highlighting the culinary heritage of the area.

4. Florence - Overnight in Montecatini Terme
Florence inspires with its Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, the Uffizi and Accademia museums, markets, gardens and squares (entrance fee can be added upon request). Following your walking tour, the balance of the day is at your leisure for shopping. Florence offers a concentration of Renaissance art and architecture, including landmarks such as Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, and the Duomo, as well as the Uffizi and Accademia museums. Markets, gardens, and public squares add to the city’s cultural richness. These highlights are explored during a guided walking tour, with the option to arrange museum admissions upon request. The remainder of the day allows time for shopping or independent exploration.

5. Pisa and Europe’s smallest pasta, change of hotel  - Overnight on the Riviera di Levante
Pisa is home to the Leaning Tower, one of the world’s most iconic architectural landmarks. The guided visit also includes the Piazza dei Miracoli, with its historic cathedral, baptistery, and monument. The program continues to Lari, a lesser-known Tuscan town enclosed by castle walls. At the Martelli family’s pasta factory, established in 1926, the group can observe the production of traditional pasta in Europe’s smallest operational factory and acquire local products as souvenirs. This day concludes with a transfer to accommodations on the Riviera di Levante.

6. Cinque Terre - Overnight on the Riviera di Levante
The five fishing villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore form a UNESCO World Heritage site, nestled between steep hillsides and the Ligurian Sea. Each village has a distinct character and historical identity. Travel between the villages combines train and boat, adapted to weather and sea conditions, allowing for a full appreciation of their colorful architecture and coastal landscapes.

7. Gulf of Poets and pesto-making class - Overnight on the Riviera di Levante
A scenic boat ride along the Ligurian coast connects Rapallo with Portofino, a renowned destination favored by an international elite for its picturesque harbor and exclusive atmosphere. Time in Portofino allows for leisurely exploration of the waterfront and local surroundings. The day also includes a hands-on pesto-making experience, offering insight into the region’s culinary traditions and concluding with a meal featuring the freshly prepared dish. The return to Santa Margherita is made by boat.

8. Departure 

4 x nights in Montecatini Terme
3 x nights on the Riviera di Levante