Day 1, October 4: Florence
- Depart from North America or from other home ports on a day that allows you to arrive in Florence, Italy (airport code FLR), on this date. Take a taxi for the short ride to the hotel, settle in, and rest after the long flight. We meet as a group for the first time at 6 p.m. in the lobby of the hotel for a meet and greet, an orientation to the tour, and any photography questions you may have can be answered at this time. We then enjoy a welcome dinner, followed by twilight photography. Overnight Florence.
Day 2, October 5: Florence
- We have a full day to explore this incredible Renaissance city. Photograph the stunning tombs of the Medici family, the sumptuous interior of the famous Baptistry, Ponte Vecchio over the Arno River, Santa Croce Church, Palazzo Vecchio and, of course, the classic overview of the city from Michelangelo Plaza at dusk and twilight. Overnight Florence.
Day 3, October 6: San Gimignano
- After breakfast we drive to the heart of Tuscanny and arrive at 13th century San Gimignano. Its skyline is comprised of medieval stone towers. The quaint streets, so artfully constructed, are a photographer’s delight. We’ll have lunch here, and then in the afternoon we’ll have more time to explore this ancient town. We will then drive to our hotel and overnight.
Arrive at the hotel
Day 4, October 7: Pienza and San Quirico d'Orcia
- After breakfast, we drive into the heart of Tuscany, arriving at the 15th-century town of Pienza. This is our first exposure to the classic Tuscan rolling hills, beautiful farmhouses, stands of cypress trees, and Medieval architecture. Hilltop views offer fantastic photographs. We will explore the town, and then drive a short distance to San Quirico d’Orcia. This is a small village surrounded by stunning landscapes. We'll have lunch here. In the afternoon, we photograph one of the classic shots in Tuscany -- the Belvedere farmhouse. Within walking distance is another classic picture of a farmhouse used in the film, Gladiator.
Day 5, October 8: Siena
- In the early morning we photograph sunrise on a beautiful farm in Asciano with a classic S-curve driveway flanked by cypress trees. Following breakfast, we drive to the beautiful city of Siena. Built in the 13th century, Siena is Italy’s medieval heart and soul. The impressive Piazza del Campo is the site of the imposing gothic town hall and the Torre del Mangia, a slender 14th-century tower that offers sweeping views of the countryside. The huge cathedral in the center of the town is nothing less than spectacular. It opened in 1215, and its dramatic interior is something you’ll never forget. The photography here is amazing. Siena is also a center for food lovers, and you will especially love the incredible creations in chocolate. This will be a wonderful day!
Day 6, October 9: Montalcino and a cooking class
- This morning we drive to Montalcino, another beautiful Tuscan town, to take part in a cooking class. You will learn to prepare traditional Tuscan dishes so you can impress your friends and family back home with your culinary prowess.
- Afterwards, we explore Montalcino, including the beautiful 11th century Sant Antimo abbey. This evening, we’ll photograph sunset lighting on the lovely Tuscan landscape.
Day 7, October 10: Montepulciano
- We get up early this morning to photograph sunrise at the 16th-century Chapel Vitaleta, a small, lone building surrounded by rolling hills. It’s an award-winning shot. We then return to the hotel for breakfast. In the middle of the of the morning, we drive to Montepulciano to photograph this charming village known as the City of Renaissance. At the base of the village is spectacular San Bioagio church, and we'll be able to take shots from stunning perspectives. After lunch, we will have a wonderful wine tasting experience where you'll be able to sample Tuscany's finest wines. This will be followed by our farewell dinner.
Day 8, October 11: Departure
- This morning, after breakfast, we drive back to Florence for our return flight home.
- Tour cost: $4880
- Single supplement: $965
- Limited to 6 participants
- Activity:
- Very easy, walking involved and fun
- Includes: all lodging on a double occupancy basis, all breakfasts, welcome dinner, farewell dinner, entrance fees, all ground transportation, cooking classes, wine testing, cocktail experience, and an English-speaking guide.
- Not included: International airfare, travel cancellation and medical evacuation.insurance, tips to local driver, and items of a personal nature.
- Payment Terms:
- Deposit to hold spot $1000.
- Payment options:
- Check, Credit card, Venmo or Zelle
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