Florence, Siena and the Treasures of Tuscany
Sat, 09 Oct 2010
Enjoy a wonderful chance to relax in a rolling land of vineyards and olive groves, clusters of dark cypress trees and ancient hill-top towns. One of Italy's most attractive regions, Tuscany offers a magical blend of unspoiled scenic beauty, history, culture and fine food and wine.
- Return flights from Isle of Man to Naples
- Return airport-to-hotel transfers
- Seven nights' half-board accommodation at your chosen hotel
- A full-day visit to Florence
- A visit to Siena and San Gimignano
- The services of a Newmarket Tour Manager
- Government taxes and service charges
Single rooms are available for a supplement
The spa-resort of Chianciano Terme, 60 miles from Florence, boasts a wonderful climate. It comprises two settlements: the old hill-town and the modern spa town below it, and offers some excellent shops as well as many small gelaterie, bars, cafes and restaurants.
Day One
Fly to Naples and transfer to Chianciano Terme (journey approximately four hours) and your hotel.
Day Two
Spend the day relaxing at the hotel, or explore the surrounding area. Our Tour Manager will be happy to suggest places to visit and things to do.
Day Three
Siena, our destination on today's included excursion, is one of the most perfectly preserved medieval cities in Europe - its centrepiece the shell-shaped piazza where the traditional 'Palio' horse race is held each year. From here, we head to spectacular, hill-top San Gimignano, with its beautiful towers, medieval walls and cathedral.
Day Four
Our first optional excursion offers a wonderful introduction to the Eternal City, Rome. Discover the Vatican, St Peter's Basilica, Michelangelo's sublime Sistine Chapel ceiling, the Colosseum, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps. Afterwards, you're free to soak up the atmosphere of the city that gave us "la dolce vita".
Day Five
On today's optional excursion you'll discover the delights of 'Chianti-shire', a region of rolling hills and walled towns usually bathed in golden sunlight. Visit ancient Castelnuovo Berardenga; beautiful, fortified Monteriggioni; and Radda in the region's very heart. You'll also have opportunities for wine tasting and sampling local delicacies at two working Chianti vineyards.
Day Six
Revel in the wonders of Florence, Italy's beautiful Renaissance capital, on our second included excursion. See the magnificent Florentine skyline, explore Santa Croce and cross the medieval Ponte Vecchio. For art lovers, the Accademia houses Michelangelo's peerless statue of David, and the Uffizi, Botticelli's exquisite 'Birth of Venus' (gallery entrances payable locally).
Day Seven
On our final optional excursion we'll travel to ancient Perugia in neighbouring Umbria. Stroll its famous people-watching street, the Corso Vannucci, and see its cathedral and medieval centre before heading on to Assisi, birthplace of Italy's patron Saint, and home to Umbria's greatest glory - the magnificent Basilica.
Day Eight
Transfer back to Naples for check-in and your flight home.
Wining and dining
Fresh fish, fruit and vegetables are plentiful, as well as typically Italian pasta, soups and meat dishes. There are also many excellent, well-priced wines to enjoy during your stay.
