Travel day and the anticipation of all that awaits you!

Once landed, meet your private English-speaking driver for the transfer to Florence city center.

Florence may be one of the world’s most popular destinations year-round, but it’s possible to experience local life just steps from the main attractions. Leave the crowds behind at the Duomo, cross the Ponte Vecchio and wander over to Oltrarno, a vibrant neighborhood where Florentines have long enjoyed the area’s artisanal boutiques, art galleries, and trendy eateries – not to mention ample parks and gardens. There’s something for culture hunters and nature enthusiasts alike.

Local suggestions provided to your taste by our local team

Your private guide in Florence is Massimo Russo, a celebrated designer whose creations have been worn by global luminaries such as Miley Cyrus, Nick Jonas, Stevie Wonder, and other icons from the worlds of sports and entertainment. In addition to fashion, Russo designs striking home furnishings, with both disciplines deeply rooted in the materials and motifs of the Italian Renaissance — leather, velvet, marble, and other timeless elements.

A former international model, Russo walked for prestigious houses including Gucci, Etro, Prada, Jil Sander, Salvatore Ferragamo, and Moncler. As a native Florentine, he offers rare insider access and a deeply personal perspective on the city’s design heritage.

The journey begins where even most Florentines have never set foot: on the top of the central balcony of Palazzo Vecchio. This special vantage point grants exclusive access to overlook one of the most famous squares in the world and admire La Fontana del Nettuno e il David from a much different perspective.

Next, you’ll step inside the invitation-only atelier of Profumoire — an olfactory library founded by Daniele Cavalli, son of Roberto Cavalli — where a master perfumer crafts bespoke fragrances that evoke the forgotten scents of the Renaissance — from the leather of ancient workshops to the garden herbs once used by Medici alchemists.

As the afternoon light gilds the city, we make our way to Il Giardino delle Rose — Florence’s famed rose garden — where Russo once found inspiration for his collections amid rare botanical species brought from the Orient during the Renaissance. Ancient terraces cascade beneath Piazzale Michelangelo, and every bloom here tells a quiet story of renewal.

The day culminates in an exclusive after-hours visit to the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum, complete with a welcome cocktail.

Return “home” to Palazzo Portinari Salviati, free to enjoy a meal and your own time at leisure.

Dawn breaks as we step into Palazzo Pitti’s Costume Museum, Il Museo della Moda e del Costume. Home to more than 6,000 artifacts—some dating back to the 16th century—it stands as one of the most important fashion museums in the world.

Next, on Via delle Belle Donne, we discover why the Kennedy women and Windsor royals have long favored Loretta Caponi’s atelier. Beneath vaulted, frescoed ceilings, we run our fingers across the finest Italian linens, each piece whispering its story through exquisite, handcrafted details.

For lunch, we’ll indulge in the legendary truffle dishes of Procacci—an institution that defines the culinary heart of Florence.

Afterward, we’re welcomed into PaparOne, a remarkable Florentine workshop accessible only by private invitation. Here, the maestro of paper brings the soul of the Renaissance to life, one handcrafted piece at a time.

Then it’s on to the Museo del Bargello, housed in Florence’s oldest public building. Today, it showcases the world’s most important collection of Italian Renaissance sculpture, with masterpieces by Donatello, Verrocchio, the Della Robbias, Michelangelo, Giambologna, Cellini, and more.

Dinner reservations complete the day at Enoteca Pinchiorri, followed by your final evening at Palazzo Portinari Salviati.

Today, you’ll bid farewell to Florence and journey to Lucca — a hidden gem of Tuscany, brimming with history and timeless charm.

Your morning begins with a private, English-speaking guide leading you on a leisurely bicycle ride along Lucca’s iconic Renaissance-era walls, offering a unique vantage point over the city’s medieval towers, hidden gardens, and quiet piazzas.

After your ride, enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional trattoria, savoring local flavors in the heart of town.

In the afternoon, your journey continues toward the picturesque Versilia Region — known for its coastal elegance, artistic legacy, and relaxed seaside atmosphere.

The afternoon is yours to settle into Il Bottaccio, an intimate and artistic Relais & Châteaux retreat with just eight individually styled accommodations — a true hidden gem near the Tuscan seaside. Once an 18th-century olive mill, the property is now a haven of refined tranquility where history, design, and nature harmonize.

Unwind in the serene gardens, take a moment for reflection by the spring-fed pool, or indulge in the wellness offerings — from a rejuvenating Hammam to bespoke spa treatments designed to restore body and spirit after your active morning in Lucca.

In the evening, we recommend dining on property — a truly memorable culinary experience awaits, where the chef transforms the region’s finest ingredients into works of art served in a setting as elegant as the cuisine.

Today, we journey to Versilia—a region renowned for its sun-soaked seaside resorts, rich artistic legacy, and the majestic marble mountains that once captivated Michelangelo himself. You’ll begin the day with your private driver, heading to Carrara for a thrilling 4×4 Jeep tour of its legendary marble quarries. It’s here that Michelangelo discovered the perfect block of marble for his David.

Next, we’ll stop in Colonnata for a surprising and memorable tasting you won’t soon forget. Then it’s off to Pietrasanta, a town beloved by artists and where Botero created many of his most iconic works—some of which still grace the streets and piazzas.

You’ll explore Pietrasanta’s charming historic center, visit the main cathedral, stroll through local galleries and boutiques, and enjoy a private visit to Botero’s studio. The day continues with a scenic drive to the elegant coastal town of Forte dei Marmi.

This evening, enjoy a seafood dinner at a beloved local restaurant along the sea in Forte dei Marmi—famed for its cuisine and frequented by local resident Andrea Bocelli. In summer, his nearby beach club also makes for a stylish daytime escape. After dinner, your private driver will escort you back to the hotel – full on wonderful food, good company, and meaningful new memories.

This morning, you’ll journey toward the countryside of Pisa, where you’ll meet your local guide for an introduction to one of Italy’s most iconic landmarks.

Pause in Pisa’s charming city center to explore the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the world-famous Leaning Tower. Stroll through this UNESCO World Heritage Site with your expert guide, who will bring its history and artistry to life.

After your visit, enjoy lunch at leisure in one of Pisa’s delightful trattorias before continuing your journey into the heart of Tuscany.

Your home for the next two nights is the acclaimed Castelfalfi Resort, voted Travel + Leisure’s Favorite Italian Resort in 2025.

True to the Tuscan Couture theme, you’ll stay in the Stefano Ricci-designed La Rocca Suite—a pinnacle of design and craftsmanship personally curated by the iconic Florentine designer himself.

Spend the afternoon at leisure, embracing the relaxed rhythm of Tuscan countryside life and the exceptional amenities of Castelfalfi Resort.

Once a Lombard garrison and later a Florentine stronghold, Castelfalfi dates back to the 14th century. Today, it anchors a beautifully restored Tuscan village turned luxury retreat—where timeless landscapes meet refined living.

Whether you’re indulging in a spa treatment, exploring the organic vineyards and olive groves, or enjoying hands-on experiences like cooking or wine tasting, the estate invites you to unwind and savor Tuscany at your own pace. With six dining venues and more than forty immersive activities—from truffle hunting to pizza-making—every moment can be as leisurely or as lively as you choose.

Dinner is at leisure this evening, with the resort’s culinary offerings just steps away.

Today you’ll set off for a half-day excursion to Volterra, one of Tuscany’s most atmospheric hill towns. Once a powerful city-state of ancient Etruria, Volterra is known for its dramatic medieval skyline and centuries-old tradition of alabaster carving. As you explore its winding streets and artisan workshops, you’ll experience the enduring character of this historic village—at once refined and rooted in its past.

After your self-guided visit, continue to the Badia di Morrona, a beautifully preserved abbey and working winery just a short drive away. Begin with a visit to the historic abbey grounds, then delve into the estate’s winemaking process. An expert host will walk you through the journey from grape to glass, finishing with a guided tasting of their signature wines, paired with Tuscan specialties sourced from the surrounding countryside.

Return to Castelfalfi for a leisurely afternoon. Whether you prefer time at the spa, a curated experience, or simply soaking in the view, the balance of the day is yours to enjoy.

Meals at leisure. Overnight in Castelfalfi.

Bid arrivederci to Castelfalfi and journey south, through landscapes that only seem to grow more timeless. En route, pause in the storied city of Siena, famed for its preserved medieval character and the legendary Palio horse race.

Meet your local English-speaking guide and wander Siena’s narrow, sun-washed streets—exploring the majestic Duomo, the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, and perhaps sampling traditional treats like Ricciarelli, the city’s beloved almond pastry.

Enjoy lunch at leisure in a charming trattoria overlooking the Campo, where every view feels like a painting come to life.

After lunch, continue into the heart of Southern Tuscany’s wine country and settle in at your journey’s next seconda casa—a place that feels like a home-away-from-home.

Meals at leisure.

Castello di Vicarello is a romantic, 12th-century castle retreat offering just ten exquisite suites. Blending rustic charm with refined design, you’ll stay in a Double Suite Torre Room (breakfast included, of course.)

Delve into the rich flavors of Tuscany and uncover the time-honored secrets of authentic Tuscan cuisine meeting with your local English-speaking and passionate chef, who champion the use of natural, home-grown ingredients.

You will start with a visit to the organic vegetable gardens, where you’ll hand-pick fresh produce to use in your dishes. Guided by family recipes from Aurora Baccheschi Berti’s celebrated cookbook, you’ll then learn to master dishes such as pappa al pomodoro, fresh pasta, focaccia, and tiramisu—perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner gathering. You will then enjoy lunch based on your efforts.

NOTE: the class is a group experience.

Afternoon at leisure to enjoy Castello di Vicarello’s lovely facilities.

At Castello di Vicarello the therapists offer wellbeing and massage therapies using organic oils and ingredients from the castle gardens.

Treatments can be enjoyed in the privacy of your suite or set within the beautiful gardens surrounded by the heady scents of lavender and jasmine. There are many wellbeing, spa and beauty treatments available and each session is tailored to your personal requirements.

Dinner at leisure and overnight in Tuscany.

This morning meet in the hotel lobby with your private English speaking driver with deluxe A/C vehicle and transfer to Il Borro.

This afternoon you will enjoy a private wine tour of Il Borro cellar and final tasting of Il Borro wine selection reserved. All Borro wines have a strong sense of territory. Native vines such as Sangiovese are cultivated together with the international vines such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah so that our labels are the most authentic expression of Il Borro Estate.

In 1993 Ferruccio Ferragamo became the owner of Il Borro Estate where, in previous years, he had hunted and vacationed with his family and friends. From that time on major work was undertaken in the medieval hamlet which was completely restored for the purpose of enhancing the history, traditions and natural surroundings, special attention was paid to the vineyards. Today, the entire Estate is managed by two of his six children: Salvatore, CEO and Vittoria who is responsible for Il Borro’s Garden and special projects.

This afternoon you will have the chance to meet Vittoria Ferragamo in person and enjoy a stroll with her around the property. Authenticity, respect for the environment, culture and enhancement of the local expertise are the pillars of the Estate’s sustainable philosophy which dominate each and every decision.

Dinner at leisure.

This morning, meet your private English-speaking driver in the hotel lobby, at your disposal for the activity of the day. Live the experience of being a truffle hunter for a day: a truly unique and engaging activity led by a “master truffle hunter”!

Immersed in the pure heart of Tuscany, discover the treasures of the wonderful land during a truffle hunt.

Enjoy fresh nature while strolling through the lush Tuscan woods: our expert truffle hunter, together with one of man’s best friends, the expertly trained dog, will be ready to guide you to discover the secrets of the refined world of truffles. You can even learn how to distinguish good truffles from bad ones!

Finally, it’s time to taste what you have found: enjoy a delicious truffle-based lunch!

After lunch return to your hotel in the afternoon, escorted by your private driver.

Tonight you will end your fabulous program enjoying a tasting dinner with wine pairing at the fine-dining Restaurant Osteria del Borro with a private chef.

This morning, meet your private driver in the hotel lobby and transfer by deluxe AC vehicle to Rome FCO Airport for your departure.

Arrivederci!

END OF ESSENCE OF ITALY SERVICES.