FLORENCE

Full day - Approximately 15 hours

Florence; the cradle of the Renaissance period, where you breath art in the Medieval streets, the craftsmens' workshops and in the Renaissance Palaces. Here, the memories of the Medici Family are united with the splendour of the works of the artists: Michelangelo, Leonardo and Botticelli.

Leaving Rome in a northerly direction and crossing the green valley of the Tevere, you will pass the slopes of the Apennines which are covered with olive groves and vineyards before seeing the famous valley of Chianti and finally arriving in Florence bordering the banks of the river Arno.

The city tour will commence with a visit to the Academy Museum where you will see the magnificent David by Michelangelo and then, continuing on foot with your local guide to see the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore with the beautiful dome of Brunelleschi. Other treasures, the Baptistery and Giotto's Bell Tower will also be admired before arriving at Piazza della Signoria, the "heart" of Florence. Your included lunch will be served in a typical Florentine restaurant before continuing the afternoon promenade.

After lunch, you will then continue to the Piazza Santa Croce where the Church of the same name is situated and great artists like Michelangelo are buried. Then you will have the opportunity to visit one of the leather schools in order to admire one of the typical crafts of the city, here you will also have some free time to discover some of the other ancient crafts such as mosaics and goldsmiths. Departure from Florence at approximately 5.00 pm for the return journey to Rome.

Useful Information: We suggest that you wear comfortable shoes, and remember that it is not permitted to visit churches in shorts, miniskirts or with uncovered shoulders.