Active pace with longer touring days. Expect intermittent walking at a moderate pace for 2–3 hours over a variety of terrain, including cobblestones, hills and uneven pavements. Must be able to negotiate stairs of varying heights, sometimes without handrails. Can tolerate periods of standing during guided tours and be able to climb in/out of various modes of transportation. Some days may include 5–7 km of walking over the course of the day.
We depart for Milan.
We arrive in Milan and transfer to our hotel on the shores of Lake Maggiore.
This morning we enjoy a guided tour of the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore, including Isola Bella with the amazing Borromeo Palace, and the nearby Isola dei Pescatori where we will have free time for lunch. The afternoon is at leisure to explore Stresa and the lakeside promenade.
On our morning tour of Milan we see the Cathedral, Duomo, the castle, the Galleria and the famous opera house La Scala. After free time for lunch we depart for the Ligurian coast for a 4-night stay.
We enjoy a boat ride along one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines, stopping in Portofino, a beautiful port town and a long-time favourite destination for the rich and famous. We then continue to the picturesque fishing village of Camogli by train, known as the “City of the Thousand White Sailing Ships” for its maritime tradition.
We board the local train for Cinque Terre— 5 villages that cling dramatically to the cliffs along the rocky coastline. Upon arrival at the village of Manarola we have time to explore before taking the train to Vernazza. A scenic boat ride takes us to Monterosso, one of the most beautiful of the five villages. After our visit we return to our hotel by train.
A free day to explore the town and stroll the lovely promenade.
We depart for the village of Portovenere, situated on a rocky coastline. The village was dear to Lord Byron for its tranquility. The 12th century village centre still preserves the original coloured houses overlooking the harbour and the Tinetto Islands. We will see 13th century St. Peter’s Church, built on rocks, then continue to Montecatini. After a welcome drink, there will be an entertaining talk on history, art, local traditions and present-day rivalries in Tuscany.
We first visit Siena, one of the most important cities in medieval Europe. Its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which contains buildings from the 13th and 14th centuries. The city is famous for its Palio—a horse race held twice a year in Piazza del Campo. Later we’ll enjoy some wine tasting in the Chianti district
Morning at leisure. Tuscany is well known for its agricultural products, so this afternoon we’ll visit a local farm. The visit is followed by dinner with a selection of local produce and wines.
Morning at leisure. In the afternoon we’ll enjoy the lovely Tuscan scenery as we travel to the amazing walled city of Lucca to explore the medieval centre. We’ll see the Piazza Anfiteatro—the square where the Roman amphitheater used to be, as well as Piazza San Michele. The little shops in this town are a delight. Dinner will be in a local typical restaurant in the city centre.
A full day touring in Florence - the "Cradle of the Renaissance". We visit the Academia Gallery to see the magnificent statue of David by Michelangelo. We then have a walking tour and see the multi-coloured marble cathedral, Signoria Square, the Baptistery and Piazzale Michelangelo from where we have the best view over the city.
Optional excursions will be offered to Bolgheri, Castagneto. Pisa, or Pistoia.
A full day to explore the unique hilltop towns set among the Tuscan vineyards and cypress trees. These small towns, with their medieval buildings and monuments have existed since 1155.
A final day to explore Tuscany. This evening we will enjoy our Farewell Dinner at a local farmhouse.
We transfer to the Florence airport for our return to Canada.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (90 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
