Brunello, Pasta and Prada
Day 1 – Depart from the US.
Day 2 – Arrive in Florence. You will be met outside baggage claim and travel by taxi to the hotel. Begin the evening with a cocktail reception and a fabulous view of Florence on the rooftop our hotel.
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Day 3 – We jump right in to our wine education as we join Lawrence D’Almeida to travel to the beautiful region of Chianti where we will visit the history-filled Antinori winery. You will have a chance to taste some of the most exquisite wine produced by this world-famous winery. We will then venture on to a small, boutique winery followed by lunch at a restaurant with a view as close to heaven as you might ever find. If time permits, we will visit Greve before returning to Florence.
Day 4 – After breakfast, join our guide, Monica, for a walking tour of the sites of Florence including, Santa Croce, the Ponte Vecchio, Piazza de la Signoria, Brunelleschi’s world-famous Duomo, the Academia and Michelangelo’s incomparable masterpiece, David. Following our walking tour, Roz will introduce us to several of her curated artisans for shopping.
Day 5 – Today is a day of options. There is no disputing that wine is a key part of Tuscan history but don’t forget about the contributions made by Tuscan olive oil. You can take the opportunity to explore this subject in depth and learn what olive oil is best to use when. Depending on the harvest, we may be fortunate enough to taste the “new oil”, truly a special treat.
You may also choose to take a tour of the Ufizzi. On our walking tour of Florence with Monica, we saw the outside of the world-famous Ufizzi gallery and its incredible statues in the loggia. Today, we offer a chance to tour the gallery and see some of the masterpieces inside.
Another option is to go behind the scenes to discover an artisanal perfumery at AquaFlor. Perhaps you want to get a new scent for your home or a new scent for you. Design the day as you wish. Make it your day
Day 6 – Today is all about shopping as we head to Space Prada in Montevarchi and then venture on to The Mall where you will find additional luxury brands, including Gucci, Ferragamo, Fendi, and Armani, among others. But wait, there’s more. We will return to Florence and continue to shop on the “other side” or Oltrarno. Visit Angela Caputi, Jennifer Tatinelli and other artisans located on this side of the river.
Just in case shopping is not your thing, explore Florence on you own with our self-directed tour. Climb to the top of the Duomo, visit the Bargello or just wander the streets of Florence. Rejoin the group for dinner at Massimo Botura’s Michelin Star Restaurant at the Gucci Museum. Don’t worry about those calories. You will have walked several miles.
Day 7 – Today is all about Brunello, as we journey to the charming village of Montalcino. At two of the area’s finest small vineyards you will taste what is arguably the best wine in Italy: Brunello. Lunch will be at another delightful restaurant with a beautiful view. Free evening in Florence.
Day 8 – Today we meet our chef at the Mercado Centrale to tour the market and select items for our cooking class. We will then travel to a 13th century Tuscan villa for a hands-on cooking class where you will prepare a five course meal. Enjoy wine produced on the estate while learning the fine art of Tuscan cooking. Return to Florence in time to shop or rest and relax. Dinner is on your own.
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Day 9 – Don’t forget your camera as we spend the day in the beautiful Tuscan countryside visiting San Gimignano and Siena. In San Gimignano follow Roz through the streets of this charming Tuscan village to the little boutiques she has discovered. Pull yourself away from this village to travel on to Siena to visit the Piazza di Campo and the exquisite Duomo known for incredible mosaic tile floors. Return to Florence for dinner.
Day 10 – Today is the day to wrap up your shopping, find that special little jewelry shop, shop for that leather jacket or just look for the bargains at Piggy market. Use this day to pack orperhaps ship some purchases home. Reconvene for our farewell dinner. Don’t forget, Roz and M.A. are always available to help with whatever you need.
Day 11 – Arrivederci!
TOUR DATES
TUSCANY
October 1-11, 2023
