Rome & Tuscan Highlights
10 Days from $2,178 per person
Weave your way from Rome on an At Leisure jaunt past golden olive groves and lush green vineyards to medieval bastions that have preserved Tuscany's unforgettable charm for centuries. Stay in the popular thermal spa resort of Montecatini, admire the exquisite marble Cathedral in Siena and embrace la dolce vita in true Tuscan style, learning to cook Italian pasta like only Mamma can.
Overview
Weave your way from Rome on an At Leisure jaunt past golden olive groves and lush green vineyards to medieval bastions that have preserved Tuscany's unforgettable charm for centuries. Stay in the popular thermal spa resort of Montecatini, admire the exquisite marble Cathedral in Siena and embrace la dolce vita in true Tuscan style, learning to cook Italian pasta like only Mamma can.
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive Rome
Ciao Roma! On arrival to Rome Fiumicino Airport transfers will operate at 9.30am, 12.30pm and 3.30pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. The Eternal City opens its doors for an unforgettable At Leisure jaunt through Tuscany and two millennia of culture, history and fiery Italian verve. Spend the afternoon meandering through the city's fascinating streets before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception and an orientation drive past Rome's enchanting cityscapes, including views of the Colosseum and Circus Maximus, once the site of exhilarating chariot races that attracted thousands of enthusiastic spectators.
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Day 3: Rome Sightseeing – Montecatini (6 Nights)
Our journey through Rome begins in the center of Christendom, where we join a Local Specialist on an included sightseeing tour to visit the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica and Michelangelo's much-admired Pietà. This afternoon, we enjoy a leisurely drive through the scenic Tuscan hills to the thermal spa resort of Montecatini, the largest and most famous spa town in Italy and your home for the next six nights.
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Day 4: Siena and San Gimignano Excursion
Saunter through the beautifully preserved medieval city of Siena to the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo that hosts the biannual Palio horse race and is home to the 13th century marble Cathedral which dominates the cityscape. We venture to the walled medieval town of San Gimignano renowned for its ring of towers that can be seen as we meander up the hill on which this hilltop town is perched. Enjoy some free time ambling through its quaint cobblestone lanes, shopping for locally-produced delicacies and hand-painted Tuscan pottery - the alluring aromas of pecorino and cured meats around every turn.
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Day 5: Montecatini At Leisure or Optional Experience to the Cinque Terre
Relax in the soothing waters of Montecatini Thermal Spa on your day at leisure or join an Optional Experience to the famous Cinque Terre, with its quaint pastel-coloured villages that cling to the rugged cliffs of the scenic Ligurian Coast. -
Day 6: Pisa and Vinci Excursion
Traveling inland, we arrive in Pisa where we join a Local Specialist to view the famous Leaning Tower, finely sculpted marble Cathedral and the ornate Baptistery, said to be the largest in Italy. Meandering through the Tuscan countryside, we arrive in the town of Vinci where we will enjoy a Cultural Insight into the life of the talented master whose life and work are celebrated during a visit to the Museo Leonardiano. Admire Leonardo da Vinci's machines and models, his sketches and handwritten notes, as well as interactive exhibits during your visit. -
Day 7: Florence Excursion
Your Local Specialist gives you a fascinating account on the history of Renaissance Florence during your walking tour. View the magnificent Duomo and visit Piazza della Signoria. Perhaps in your free time visit the Ponte Vecchio bridge, one of the city's most famous landmarks and lined with goldsmiths and jewellers, a legacy of the 16th century decree which mandated that only jewellers and goldsmiths be allowed to ply their trade on the bridge. Tonight join your fellow travelers for a memorable Be My Guest dinner experience with beautiful views over the Tuscan hills. -
Day 8: Tuscan Lifestyle Experience
Feast your eyes on the vibrant colors and bustling stalls heaving with fresh produce at a local Florence food market where you will join a Local Specialist for a memorable introduction to Italian cuisine from a professional chef. Learn how to cook like only an Italian Mamma can, selecting your fresh produce from the market and preparing lunch which you will enjoy with a delicious glass of local wine. The tastes of Tuscany still lingering after an unforgettable Regional Meal, we return to our hotel in the Tuscan hills for the night, enjoying the evening at leisure. -
Day 9: Montecatini – Rome – Vatican Experience
Departing Tuscany, we travel south to Rome to explore the city's magnificent sites. This evening we enjoy an exclusive Farewell dining experience among the stunning artistry of Museo Gregoriano Profano, centuries of Roman and Ancient Greek sculptures and antiquities or the magnificent surrounds of the Salone di Raffaello in the Pinacoteca, with access to the Museum available pre-dining. Join a Local Specialist for a guided evening tour of the Vatican Museums including a visit to Michelangelo's magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel when it is less crowded.
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Day 10: Depart Rome
Today we bid a sad farewell to newfound friends and an epic At Leisure experience, departing Rome today. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport at 7am and 9.30am. Conditions apply.
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Jul 18 | 21 Jul 18 |
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$2,395pp | Call 1-877-622-9109 | |||
| 26 Jul 18 | 4 Aug 18 |
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$2,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 16 Aug 18 | 25 Aug 18 |
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$2,375pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 30 Aug 18 | 8 Sep 18 |
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$2,475$2,178pp | Last Minute DealPromo Code: PPLMDE349 | Call 1-877-622-9109 Book Now | ||
| 20 Sep 18 | 29 Sep 18 |
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$2,475pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 27 Sep 18 | 6 Oct 18 |
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$2,475pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 4 Oct 18 | 13 Oct 18 |
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$2,475pp | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 11 Oct 18 | 20 Oct 18 |
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$2,325pp | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: from $440 p.p.
Triple Discount: $70 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $88 per person.
Airport transfers: On arrival at Rome Fiumicino Airport transfers will operate at 9:30 am, 12:30 pm and 3:30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport at 7:00 am and 9:30 am.
Cruise Connection: This trip starts or ends in a popular cruise port, so you can combine a cruise with a more in-depth guided vacation in Europe.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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VIP Access
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Personal Flight Options
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Most Meals
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Hotel Tips
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Cultural Enrichment
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Meal Summary
13 meals: 8 buffet breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners, all with tea and coffee.
Included Highlights
Be My Guest
- Join the Callistri family at their ‘borgo' in the Hamlet of Limonaia for a delicious Italian meal, olive oil tasting and leisurely walk through their olive groves and lemon orchards
Cultural Insight
- Enjoy a private visit inside the Vatican where you will tour the Museo Gregoriano Profano featuring Roman and Ancient Greek antiquities before an exclusive private dinner.
- Visit the museum dedicated to the life of Leonardo da Vinci in his Tuscan birthplace
Local Specialist
- For included sightseeing in Rome, Pisa and Florence
Hidden Treasure
- Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Sightseeing Highlights
- City tour in Rome, Pisa, Florence
- Visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Tuscan city of Siena, the medieval town of San Gimignano, the Leonardiano Museum in the town of Vinci, the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel
- Views of the ancient sites of Rome including the Colosseum, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, Santa Croce Basilica, the Duomo in Florence
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
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Currency
The currency in Italy is the Euro (€). While it’s a good idea to bring some euros for when you first arrive in Italy, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate when you arrive in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in Italy. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Cuisine
While Italy is most famous for pizza and pasta, few travelers are aware of just how varied the country’s culinary offering actually are. In fact, each of the 20 regions has its own distinctive cuisine. Traditionally, lunch (pranzo) is the most substantial meal of the day. A full meal consists of antipasto (starter), a primo piatto (pasta, rice or soup), a secondo piatto (meat or fish) with a side, or contorno (vegetable or salad), then frutta (fresh fruit). Finish with espresso and maybe a limoncello or grappa. Wine is usually served with the meal, accompanied by mineral water. Tap water is safe to drink, but not always tasty. We recommend you buy bottled mineral water. ‘Acqua non potabile’ means the water is not safe to drink.
Food in Florence is simple and humble, and relies on the fresh ingredients of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Many of the local recipes have evolved from peasant dishes to international favorites. Bread is an important staple in Florentine cooking, and is featured in everything from antipasti (appetizers) such as bruschetta to traditional main dishes. Panzanella is a popular summer salad prepared with day old crusty bread and tomatoes. Papa al pomodoro is a delicious soup made with bread, tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. You’ll also find a variety of dishes featuring white beans, including the hearty ribollita soup. But the flagship of Florentine cuisine remains the famous bistecca alla fiorentina (T-bone steak). For a sweet finish, meals are topped off with traditional cantuccini (almond cookies) and the local vin santo dessert wine.
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Packing
In Italy, the weather changes very quickly, with temperatures varying from morning to night. We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. Keep in mind that your shoulders and knees should be covered while visiting religious sites. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Tipping
At bars and restaurants, tipping is less common or generous as in the U.S. When dining out, it’s appropriate, although not required, to leave an extra euro or two for your waiter.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Montecatini
Lunch Or Dinner Wine And Music In The Tuscan Hills
Adult Price: €62.00
Take a scenic drive through the beautiful Tuscan countryside to a delightful regional restaurant set among the pines and cypress trees. Here a feast of gastronomic specialities awaits, accompanied by song and music.
Montecatini
The Cinque Terre and Porto Venere
Adult Price: €60.00
We’ll visit the Bay of Poets and the beautiful Porto Venere, where we can admire the UNESCO protected Cinque Terre. Still to this day, the villages retain their charm and reputation for producing some of Italy's most exclusive wines.
Montecatini
The Walled City Of Lucca
Adult Price: €37.00
Join us as we explore the beautiful city of Lucca, birthplace of the composer Giacomo Puccini. You’ll explore with a Local Specialist as the monumental architecture transports you back to thirteenth century Tuscany.
Florence
Michelangelo's 'David' & Accademia
Adult Price: €41.00
Enjoy an insight into the world of Michelangelo and his masterpiece, David. We have fast track entry to the Academy of Fine Arts and its Michelangelo collection, where you’ll learn all about the life and works of this immortal Renaissance genius through the expert commentary of our Local Specialist.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
