DAY 1 UK/Pisa
Meet your travelling companions at the airport and depart on your scheduled flight to Pisa. On arrival transfer to Marina di Cecina for a seven night stay. In the evening enjoy a welcome drink followed by dinner.
DAYS 2 TO 7 Marina Di Cecina
Free to enjoy your seaside setting and join our included excursions as follows:
Florence - A guided tour of the ‘Art City’ and cultural capital of Italy, home to Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, the Ponte Vecchio bridge, a wonderful cathedral and some fine shopping. Built beside the River Arno, the compact historic centre of Florence is easily explored on foot. Use your time to discover glorious works of art in the Uffizi Gallery, climb the steps of the Duomo or visit ‘Il Porcellino’, the statue of a boar located in Mercato Nuovo, throw a coin into the grating at its feet and rub its shiny nose to ensure your return to this artistic city.
Pisa - Surely one of Italy’s most instantly recognisable sights, no trip to Pisa would be complete without seeing the amazing 180ft Leaning Tower, which is found in the Field of Miracles. Building work on the tower began in 1173, and it took 176 years to complete.
San Gimignano & Siena - San Gimignano is one of the loveliest hilltop towns in Tuscany with its beautiful palaces and churches, ornate frescoes and a fine baptistry within the ancient walls. It is known as the ‘town of beautiful towers’ because of the towers built as status symbols by feuding families in medieval times. We then move on to Siena, one of the most perfectly preserved medieval cities in Europe. Its enchanting narrow streets, lined with palaces and mansions, lead to the spectacular Piazza del Campo, setting for the colourful Palio horse race held each year between the seventeen Contrade, or city wards.
The following excursions are optional:
Elba - A full day excursion sailing from Piombino to Portoferraio on the beautiful island of Elba. Located just off the coast of Tuscany, it is Italy’s third largest island, home to picturesque fishing villages and stunning mountain scenery. We will enjoy the island’s splendid views over the Bay of Biodola and explore the harbour of Marciana and beautiful Marina di Campo. The island is dotted with scenic walking routes and there is a fantastic variety of wild flowers to be found here.
Lucca - A half day trip to this impressive medieval walled town with its magnificent walkable ramparts, beautiful botanical gardens, the Basilica of San Frediano and countless works of art. With some fascinating architecture, including a tree-topped tower, this is a beautiful place to visit.
On the final evening enjoy a farewell get-together with live music.
DAY 8 Pisa/UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.