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Day-by-Day Itinerary
START IN FLORENCE. FINALE FOR A WEEK IN THE TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE.
IWe loved starting in Florence... But we found our beat, that gentle rhythm that can only be found under the Tuscan Sunshine... Our Journey continued to amaze with rolling green hills, golden sunlight, vineyards for miles, farmhouses and estates, olive groves and gelatto... We discovered beautiful names of Tuscan Hill Towns like Pienza, Montepulciano and Cortona... And the grand Tuscan city of Siena.
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On Treasures of Tuscany we know how and where to tour to avoid the crowds and the rush. We're different from the mainstream.
THIS IS WHY WE SUGGEST JOURNEY FOR YOUR ITALIAN VACATION:
See the complete Day-by-Day Itinerary
OPTIONAL BEGINNING: LAKE COMO, 2 Days/2 Nights
EXPLORING THE LAKES OF NORTHERN ITALY
Expand the Adventure with this Amazing Adventure
TRIP COMMENCES: FLORENCE, 2 Days/2 Nights
WELCOME TO FLORENCE
The perfect beginning to your Tuscan Adventure.
TRIP FINALE: TUSCAN VILLA RESORT, 7 Days/7 Nights
TUSCANY COUNTRYSIDE IS ALIVE WITH COLOR
Enjoy a grand balance of activity and leisure time to enjoy the villa estate.
OPTIONAL FINALE: AMALFI COAST, 2 Days/2 Nights
SUNSHINE LEMONY AMAZEMENT
You will want to add our amazing 2 Day Finale on the Amalfi Coast!
What's the Difference between Deluxe and Classic Package?
Journey's Deluxe package includes a full, hot daily breakfast (table service or buffet), 5 of the 9 dinners and 4+ to 5 Star hotel properties featuring large, air-conditioned guestrooms with ensuite bathrooms.
Journey's Classic package includes a daily continental breakfast, Florence Welcome Dinner (guests may upgrade to the total 5 dinners included for $390 per person), and 3 to 4 Star hotel properties featuring air-conditioned guestrooms with ensuite bathrooms.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions about this Journey
Answers to questions we've been asked about this trip and our approach to travel.
Choose from Deluxe or Classic Packages. Optional pre- and post-tour extensions available on these departures.
Deluxe Hotels from $6,875/adult
4+ to 5 Star Properties with Dinner Package
Classic Hotels from $5,875/person
3 to 4 Star Properties
Jump to Itinerary: Day-by-Day Itinerary
Inquire for other departure dates.
MAY 12-MAY 21: Tour commences in Florence, Concludes in Siena
Deluxe: $6,755 per person, Classic: $5,755 per person
MAY 22-MAY 30
Deluxe: $6,875 per person, Classic: $5,875 per person
((Special Departure)) JUNE 9-JUN 18
Deluxe: $6,875 per person, Classic: $5,875 per person
SEPTEMBER 11-SEP 19
Deluxe: $6,875 per person, Classic: $5,875 per person
OCTOBER 2-OCT 10
Deluxe: $6,755 per person, Classic: $5,755 per person
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ENJOY OUR UNIQUE APPROACH TO TRAVELING THROUGH ITALY
We don't do buses. We don't do large groups.
ARRIVING FLORENCE
Birthplace of the Renaisseance, we enjoy the city and its treasures.TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE
Our comfy micro-coach thru the Tuscan countryside leads us into a week-long immersion in beauty along with delicious cusine and wine.
Itinerary at a Glance
DAY 1-2: FLORENCE | DAY 3-4: VILLA | DAY 5: AREZZO | DAY 6: VILLA |DAY 7: PIENZE | DAY 8: SIENA | DAY 9: VILLA | DAY 10: DEPART
FIRST THINGS FIRST: Consider our Flight and Early Arrival Options
Your flight to Florence should arrive on Day 1 of the itinerary — this means you should depart your home airport the day prior — your round-trip travel time on this Journey is 11 Days (10 Days, 9 Nights Land). Airfare is not included. Inquire about our Business Class and Premium Economy Airfare.
CONSIDER EXPANDING YOUR JOURNEY
Expand the Journey: Many of our travelers arrive a "full day early" to recover from their overnight flight — inquire with us about a pre-tour overnight hotel room in Florence.
Make your way to our hotel located in the very heart of Florence. Check-in, freshen up and enjoy time at leisure until our Discovery Walk with your Journey Tour Director later today. Your rooms are guaranteed ready by 2PM.
Florence is the city of arts and the birthplace of the Renaissance and the family Medici.
Discovery Walk: Florence
Your Journey Tour Director will introduce you to Florence on our Discovery Walk throughout the cobblestoned streets of this beautiful city.
Welcome to Florence Dinner
Tonight, join your Journey Tour Director as they welcome you with a variety of regional culinary tastes, beverages and ample portions of fine local wines from Tuscany.
Journey Cuisine is authentically Italian: Family-owned restaurants farm to table
Journey’s approach to dining is unique in the travel world (just like the regions of Italy). We include Premium Beverages (wine, soda and cocktails) and you choose your dinner from the menu. The Italian chefs and families are proud of their delicious dishes which hail from each of the regions in which Journey travels. Tuscan inspired dishes will move you and satisfy you. You will enjoy a variety of dishes featuring pasta, seafood combined plates, vegetable inspired contorni and of course family-inspired dishes. While in Italy we will enjoy locally grown produce where the concept of nostrale, or home-grown, is so evident.
Preferred Property in Florence
Included in package: 4-Star Grand Hotel Cavour, 2 Nights with breakfast
Enjoy Florence at leisure or opt for our special tour of Florence focusing on the family Medici.
Option Today: Florence and the Medici
Consider joining our Local Guide on a special walking tour to explore the Florentine family, Medici. Florence boasts a variety of fine sights to see, including Santa Maria del Fiore, the Baptistery's Bronze "Gate of Paradise," Giotto's Bell Tower and more, but on this itinerary get ready for everything Medici. This interesting Florentine family affected Italy in a powerful way. Learn all about the family as you discover the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. Delight and inspire while the mystery and romance of the family Medici springs to life all around you.
A great morning tour allows you to enjoy the afternoon for shopping and sightseeing on your own. The balance of the day is at your leisure.
Journey Experience
Join your Journey Tour Director for a special sunset viewing over Florence — spectacular. The Tour Director will organize taxis for the trip up, and those who wish can walk down with the Tour Director (easy paved environment, not too steep hills).
Dinner Options: Tonight, optionally join your Journey Tour Director for dinner after sunset. Or explore at your leisure.
Today's Adventure: Into Tuscany
We make our way to the villa estate in Tuscany. Upon arrival, you are treated to a special welcome and tour of the estate. Welcome to the Tuscan countryside.
Later tonight you will enjoy an included dinner on the grounds of the villa prepared by the resident chef.
Welcome Dinner
Enjoy an included welcome dinner on the grounds of the villa by the Journey Chef. Made from scratch dinners are a hallmark of your villa experience. On certain departures we will be residing on a villa resort with other guests and a restaurant(s).
Accommodation in Tuscany
The Villa — The private villa farmhouse in Tuscany
The authentic Tuscan farmhouse is a producing olive farm with room for 17 guests (but we cap it at 10 guests). Our villa estate is set upon 2.5 acres and is located about 2.8 miles drive from a nearby medieval town relatively unkown to the modern tourist. Each of the bedrooms feature Italian air-conditioning units that are controlled by the guests. The restored farmhouse is well decorated with terracotta tiles, wooden beams and precious, but comfortable furniture. The grounds feature a very nice garden, and multiple areas scattered on the property for relaxation. Dining in the farmhouse along with al fresco options highlight our stay. From April through October the estate's pool provides entertainment as well as stunning scapes of the valley.
The Villa Resort — Alternative experiences at a multi-guest villa resort estate.
On certain departures we will enjoy residing on a villa estate resort with other guests and multiple rooms and buildings.
The first full day at the villa is designed for relaxation and enjoyment. Take in the grounds, enjoy our included but optional cooking class, go for a walk, lay by the pool, swim, go into town or just simply, be. But for those who are ready for some special activity, we've provided an optional but included at no extra charge Cooking Experience. You can alternatively enjoy this cooking experience on Day 6.
Today's Adventure: Cooking Tuscan Style
The Villa
Enjoy learning about the skill of cooking Tuscany-style. Discover the very best of Italy's countryside right with cuisine and wine paired perfectly as you experience our authentic private cooking experience in Tuscany. Enjoy a wine tasting with a sommelier, try fresh Tuscan produce from an organic Tuscan farm and then prepare and eat your Italian meal complete with wine and the dolce.
The Villa Resort
On certain departures you will be picked up from the villa resort and whisked away to a kitchen in the Tuscan countryside for a special cooking class complete with wine and dolce!
Today's Adventure: Discovering Arezzo
Today we will venture to amazing Arezzo and be entertained and guided by our Local Guide, Dr. Susanna Burrichi — she's Journey’s lead guide in all of Tuscany. Learn about the Etruscan, Roman and Modern histories of this amazing city.
We will enjoy some free time in this amazing city before we return to the villa late this afternoon.
Tonight’s Dining
The Villa
Each evening the Journey Chef will create something spectacular for our dinner or we will dine out - see the villa schedule upon arrival.
The Villa Resort
Optional dining tonight on the estate (reservations required) or perhaps you will venture out in Tuscany. We can help with reservations and round-trip transfers.
Enjoy a day at leisure or opt for one of our many optional experiences.
Discovery Walk: Village
The Villa
No charge to join the Journey Tour Director for a trip into the nearby town to explore its quaint nooks and crannies. Throughout the day, the Villa Shuttle will transfer you at your leisure.
The Villa Estate
Today, consider one of our optional experiences — just inquire with your trip specialist.
Tonight’s Dining
The Villa
Each evening the Journey Chef will create something spectacular for our dinner or we will dine out - see the villa schedule upon arrival.
The Villa Resort
Optional dining tonight on the estate (reservations required) or perhaps you will venture out in Tuscany. We can help with reservations and round-trip transfers.
Today's Adventure: Discovering Pienza
Today, venture to amazing Pienza for a walking tour with our guide, and then free time for lunch. A tiny hole-in-the-wall that boats excellent local fare and interesting vino (don't forget to try the olive oil). Pienza is also known as one of the filming locations for Gladiator, with the owner of this restaurant's Nonna owning the field of wheat where actor Russell Crowe walked through as Maximus.
We will return to our villa late afternoon.
Tonight’s Dining
The Villa
Each evening the Journey Chef will create something spectacular for our dinner or we will dine out - see the villa schedule upon arrival.
The Villa Resort
Optional dining tonight on the estate (reservations required) or perhaps you will venture out in Tuscany. We can help with reservations and round-trip transfers.
Today's Adventure: Discovering Siena
We make our way to Siena to take in a walking tour beginning in the impressive Piazza del Campo, in the heart of Siena. Enjoy a walking tour as we begin in the impressive Piazza del Campo, in the heart of Siena. The piazza is in the shape of the letter "D," and is divided into cloves to mimic the mantle of the Virgin Mary to whom the city honors. The tall tower, or Torre del Mangia, caps the Palazzo Pubblico, Siena's town hall. Then enjoy free time in the city before our included lunch in town.
Siena Lunch
Enjoy an included (both Deluxe and Classic) and truly delicious lunch in a special position in Siena.
We return late afternoon to the villa for the balance of the day at leisure.
Today, enjoy the Villa (or Villa Resort) and its grounds at your leisure.
We have optional activities for today if you so desire.
Tonight's Dining
The Villa
Meet your Journey Tour Director for our special celebration tonight. Our days have been filled with new sights, tastes and discoveries - tonight enjoy reflecting on the incredible journey we've had together.
The Villa Resort
Optional dining tonight on the estate (reservations required) or perhaps you will venture out in Tuscany. We can help with reservations and round-trip transfers.
After breakfast, your tour ends. Do you wish to extend your exploration of Italy or greater Europe? What about the Amalfi Coast or perhaps, Greece? — inquire with reservations on your options.
Passport, Visa and Electronic Authorities
A valid Passport is required for citizens from the USA and Canada (other countries: please speak with your consulates). The Passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your return date. We may suggest keeping a photo of your Passport in your email as an unsent draft.
Airfare Purchased through Eddie at Bella Vista
Airfare is not included in the tour price. However, you can book through our recommended air provider: Bella Vista. Any changes to flights booked through Bella Vista must be administered by Bella Vista. Eddie is the name of our colleague at Bella Vista who provides outstanding service and pricing. Bella Vista is not organically affiliated or connected to Now Journey LLC.
Airport and Included Arrival Transfer Details
Upon clearing customs, you will be met by our Journey driver who will whisk you along to the water taxi or hotel, all included.
Luggage On Tour
One (1) 50 pound suitcase is included in your portage throughout the tour. You are also entitled to a carry-on bag, and a purse or satchel. Remember, your airline or the airline on tour if applicable may have more restrictive limits — be advised you are responsible for any fees incurred on all flights.
Walking and Mobility on Tour
Be prepared to be standing and/or walking for up to 3 hours on various terrain including cobblestone streets, stairs and uneven surfaces. We walk a lot on our tours but we are unhurried and you may opt out of most sightseeing tours at just about any time (there are restrictions for example at the Vatican or on boat travel). The Journey Tour Director is unable to assist with mobility assistance. Please carefully read the Trip Agreement to understand your obligations and responsibilities.
What's the difference between Deluxe and Classic?
Deluxe package includes a full, hot daily breakfast (table service or buffet), 5 of the 9 dinners and 4+ to 5 Star hotel properties featuring large, air-conditioned guestrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Classic package includes a daily breakfast, Venice Welcome Dinner (guests may upgrade to the total 5 dinners included for $390 per person), and 3 to 4 Star hotel properties featuring air-conditioned guestrooms with ensuite bathrooms.
See detailed description about Deluxe and Classic here
COVID 19 Requirements
Please check with the Center for Disease Control website (https://www.cdc.gov) around 60 days prior to departure for the latest entry requirements. Also, please visit the Italian government's site: https://app.euplf.eu/#/
ADDITIONAL HELPFUL INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRAVELING TO ITALY - INQUIRE FOR OTHER DESTINATIONS
• All Now Journey guests should visit the official Italian Tourism website that describes the latest COVID-19 updates by clicking here: http://www.italia.it/en/useful-info/covid-19-updates-information-for-tourists.html
Hotel Guest Rooms: Air Conditioning, Electricity, Bathrooms and WiFi
Each of our guest rooms feature ensuite bathrooms, air conditioning and select amenities in Deluxe category. Daily breakfast is included in each hotel category. Italy utilizes the 220 Volt system, so you will need a converter for those devices that do not already have one, as well as an adapter for the physical US 2 or 3 prong to the Italian dual prong system. WiFi is included with your Journey vacation wherever available.
Journey Style Dining
Journey’s approach to dining is unique in the travel world (just like the regions of Italy we travel through). We include Premium Beverages (wine, soda and cocktails) and you choose your dinner from the menu. The Italian chefs and families are proud of their delicious dishes which hail from each of the regions in which Journey travels. From Lombardia and beautiful Lake Como to the Veneto region with Venice all the way through to the Amalfi Coast and Campania, you will enjoy a variety of dishes featuring pasta, seafood combined plates, vegetable inspired contorni and of course Tuscan inspired dishes. While in Tuscany we will eat from the land with locally grown produce where the concept of nostrale, or home-grown, is so evident.
Medicine and Health on Tour
Please do not pack essential medicines in your luggage, rather take them with you in your carry-on (alert: liquid medicines may need additional approval by the airline). Should you have any food restrictions or allergies, please ensure you note this on the Traveler Profile.
Currency
The Euro is used within Italy. We recommend you bring with you around €250 per person. To obtain more cash while on tour, use your Debit Card with your PIN memorized (we may suggest keeping this information in your email as an unsent draft).
Tipping in Italy
At the finalé of your Journey, you are invited to provide a gratuity to your Journey Tour Director. We recommend tipping $USD20 per person per day for your Journey Tour Director. Customary gratuities are included on your Journey for included dinners, drivers and local guides.
No Up-Sell on Tour: Rest Easy
Unlike most tour operators, we do not upsell to you while you're on tour. Your Journey Tour Director will assist you with any request while on tour, but will not proactively sell to you — this is not our culture or style of travel. We recommend you select your optional activities at least 90 days prior to your trip departure date.
Weather in Italy
Expect early spring showers possible in March and April with highs in the 60s to 70s. May and June, mostly clear patterns with highs in the 70s to 80s, July and August are the hot summer months, but still fun to explore with highs in the 80s to 90s. September is still considered high season with highs in the 70s, with October more of a shoulder season with high temps ranging from 70s to 80s in the first week to 10 days, and 60s to 70s in mid to late October.
Clothing Recommendations
March through April with October: Layer your clothing with warmer sunshine expected by 10am on most days. Have a rain jacket or umbrella just in case. May through June with September: Summer clothing is recommended with jeans, slacks, dresses, shorts, sneakers and caps/hats completely acceptable. July through August: It's hot, so dress accordingly with sunscreen on hand. Remember, entrance into the Vatican and certain other church buildings require shoulders to be covered and shorts down to the knees, generally.
