Florence: Day one

Transfer from Rome to Florence by Eurostar Train

After a short 1 1/2 hour transfer you will reach Florence, the jewel of the Italian Renaissance. Founded as “Florentia” in 59BC by Julius Caesar, Florence is today a vast and beautiful monument to the Renaissance and its history, art and ideas.

When seen from the hills that surround the city, Florence gives an impression of completeness of design. Medieval and Renaissance architecture blend together in harmony and dominate the city which is crowned by the Duomo, its cathedral dedicated to the Madonna of Florence.

This cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore, is Europe’s fourth largest church and its famous dome designed by Brunelleschi is one of the masterpieces and enigmas of the Renaissance and architecture in general. It was here, in Florence, that Cosimo de Medici started his banking empire and the Medici dynasty. Cosimo’s grandson Lorenzo the Magnificent (il Magnifico) became a major influence on the art, literature and science that fueled the Renaissance and was a strong supporter of the development of humanism.

The Medici office complex, now the Ufizzi Gallery, was to become the first public art museum and still houses one of the greatest collections of art in the world. Lorenzo the Magnificent was patron to all of the great artists of his time including Michelangelo, Botticelli and Da Vinci as well as the great thinkers like Niccolo Machiavelli. Florence embraces its rich historical past and gladly shares it with the many visitors that come here each year.

Check in at the Hotel followed by free time to relax and refresh with free lunch time.

Afternoon walking tour of Florence

Florence is extremely rich in art and well-preserved Renaissance architecture and was once home to the world’s most famous artists and writers. You will visit the world famous Duomo, with its cupola (dome) designed by Brunelleschi and the Baptistry which is one of the city’s oldest buildings, Piazza della Signoria and it’s Palazzo Vecchio, the Ponte Vecchio Bridge and Tornabuoni Street, with all of its famous, exclusive designer shops.

Cocktail in the Academy of Fine Arts followed by dine-around at local restaurants.

Experience a cocktail reception at the feet of Michelangelo’s David with a private visit to the Accademia. Commissioned by Granduca Pietro Leopoldo, it contains several masterpieces, including two pieces by Botticelli. However it is best known for the famous sculptures by Michelangelo, the most important of which are David and the unfinished prisoners. The WOW factor is guaranteed!

Dining around is one of the most popular and pleasant activities in Italy. The culinary tradition, the overwhelming variety, and the Italians' passion for abundant good food and wine, all combine to give you the eating opportunity of a lifetime. We will select the best restaurants and menus for your program.