For centuries Italy has drawn visitors in search of culture and romance with few countries comparing with its enormous Classical origins: its art, architecture, music, design, scenery, food or wine. Its contribution to art far surpasses that of any other nation being home to the most extensive ancient civilisation, the Renaissance, the Roman Catholic Church and the Vatican. Blend this with the striking natural beauty of the Tuscan countryside, the vitality of Rome, the effervescence inside every Italian and you have unbeatable ingredients for a tour.
Firstly we visit Tuscany and its great cities of Florence, Siena and Arezzo, then Umbria and Assisi and finally, the Eternal City of Rome. Birthplace of Dante and the Renaissance, Florence has been described, since its ‘rediscovery’ early in the last century, as the most beautiful city in Italy. It owes its wealth to the explosion of commerce during the Middle Ages. Principally wool and other textile industries, backed by powerful banks turned Florence into one of the world’s richest cities. Political control moved to the nobility, especially the Medici who then married into the leading royal families of Europe. The city became the cultural and intellectual heart of Europe for 300 years. Artists and sculptors flocked to the city diverting some of this new wealth in their own direction by filling the palaces and churches to bursting point with some of the world’s most outstanding works. Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Titian amongst others, created many of the masterpieces now on display in the Uffizi gallery, an absolute must. Another struggling but brilliant thinker found finance here too: Galileo, inventor of the telescope who, on discovering the first four moons of Jupiter named one of them Medici in honour of his patron.
We also visit Siena, the other great city of Tuscany. Beautifully medieval and enclosed behind vast defensive walls, it has rural parts even within the city creating a unique atmosphere. Indeed it is more a collection of cities being split into a series of parishes whose rivalries are still in evidence during the twice yearly Palio, the famous horse race where anything goes. However the city is quite outstanding and has arguably the most gracious square in the world, the Campo, and to be fair, when you see it, backed by the soaring Campanile, it is hard to disagree.
Assisi is principally famous as the city of Francis, Patron Saint of animals and one of the most famous figures in Christian history. Every house seems to be adorned with window boxes crammed with geraniums adding a splash of colour to the centuries old walls. The basilica of St. Francis is, as you would expect, outstanding in all its breathtaking detail.
Of all Italy’s historic cities, it is perhaps Rome which exerts the most compelling fascination. There is probably more to see here than in any other city on earth. Upwards of 2000 years of civilisation has given it a unique atmosphere. The grandeur of the Colosseum, scene of some of the cruellest acts ever committed, the Appian Way where Spartacus was crucified, the magnificence of St. Peter’s, the grandeur of the Vatican, the sheer brilliance of the Sistine Chapel, the Trevi Fountain and Baroque churches – the list is endless. Boasting one of the world’s great cuisines, far from being pizza and pasta, one of the first things which strikes you about visiting a restaurant, is how deeply embedded in the culture, food and drink really is. Fresh vegetables and salads, combined with succulent meats, seafood, a hint of garlic and the finest olive oil create simple, tasty, and healthy menus.
One of the greatest joys of visiting Italy is of course, being amongst the Italians themselves. Stylish, always ready to help and, if there is a single national characteristic – it is living life to the full, which creates the fantastic atmosphere so much in evidence.
Itinerary
Arrival in Rome
You should arrive at the airport to take your flight to Rome from your selected airport. On arrival, a coach will take you to delightful Arezzo in the heart of Tuscany and an ideal base for our series of visits during the next few days. We stay four nights on a half-board basis (2024 only - B&B for 2025 departures) at the four-star Hotel Minerva, located about half a mile from the medieval city walls. The rest of the day will be spent at leisure, allowing you time to settle into the hotel and start exploring if you wish.
Siena
After breakfast, we drive to lovely medieval Siena which was, during the 12th and 13th centuries, one of the world’s largest and richest cities and a similar size to Paris! An unrivalled period of building took place and the range of palaces, grandiose townhouses and piazzas were built. Without doubt the main square, the Campo is one of the most beautiful you will ever see. Unusually half-moon shaped and surrounded by tall, centuries-old buildings, they are all different embracing an overall harmonious and beautiful style. Just to sit here, enjoy a drink and reflect on lives gone by is a real pleasure.
Siena’s cathedral is absolutely outstanding, one of Italy’s greatest, built from black and white marble with the most intricate carvings imaginable some of which are by the great master himself, Michelangelo. The floor is a revelation with countless thousands of pieces of stone creating a unique inlaid pavement. It is impressive enough now but had a planned nave been completed during the 14th century, it would have created Christendom’s largest church. The city fell into rapid decline after the Black Death, accounting for the city’s astonishing preservation. During the journey to and from Siena we shall see some of the famous Tuscan countryside: this truly is a wonderfully scenic area.
Included experience:
Guided tour of Siena.
Signature experience:
After our guided tour of Siena, unwind and reflect on all that you have seen in this spectacular city over a refreshing local aperitivo, whilst admiring its unique medieval skyline and absorbing the wonderful colours and lines of its striking architecture from a stunning viewpoint.
Florence
Today we visit Florence, pearl of the Renaissance, a superb and beautiful city and deservedly on the map of the traveller since the days of the Grand Tour. During our guided tour you will see the principle monuments such as the famous Cathedral – which can house a congregation of 10,000 and boasts the largest brick dome roof to-date.
The Uffizi Gallery
This afternoon we enjoy a reserved visit to the Uffizi gallery, with entrance fees included, quite simply one of the world’s most monumental art collections. It contains work by Botticelli, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, Caravaggio, Michelangelo – the list is endless. Florence is not just about art though; it is a delightful place in its own right. Full of shops and colourful markets which delightfully complement the city’s artistic treasures.
Included experience:
Guided tour of Florence and timed entry to the Uffizi.
Arezzo
Arezzo is a wonderful old town that has nestled behind its imposing stone walls for centuries, hidden away from the tourists. On this morning’s walking tour we learn of the fascinating stories behind the many ravishing views you’ll encounter in Arezzo’s historic centre. In common with other places on this tour, the area flourished in medieval times, coming under the rule of the Medicis around the 15th century. The town contains a range of architectural styles which blend to produce a charming whole – Romanesque churches are juxtaposed with timber-beamed shops, linked by intimate cobbled squares. Arezzo’s Piazza Grande, lined by narrow-fronted multistorey buildings and with a steeply sloping pavement, is one of Europe’s most evocative and atmospheric main squares, while inside the Basilica di San Francesco are the Legends of the True Cross frescoes by Piero della Francesca.
Free time
This afternoon, you can enjoy free time exploring the city or relaxing in one of the local cafes while watching the world go by.
Assisi
Today we leave Tuscany after breakfast, driving firstly to Assisi, where we enjoy a guided tour. This delightful medieval town, with its flower-hung streets, lovely views over the Umbrian countryside and fountain-splashed piazzas is famous for a single event – the birth of Francis, the most revered saint in Italy. The man himself was one of the most extraordinary figures the Italian church has ever produced. He had a privileged upbringing, leading a very un-Christian lifestyle, but whilst imprisoned, God appeared to him. After release, he renounced his inheritance, living the life of a beggar, and mixed with lepers, but ultimately found his vocation founding the order of monks which bears his name, the Franciscans. Two years after his death, the basilica was built, financed by donations from all over Europe creating one of the most beautiful shrines in the Christian world adorned by arguably its greatest art collection outside an actual gallery. The building today is actually two churches, one on top of the other with St. Francis himself lying under the floor in the crypt. The mood inside is most respectful, being in tune with Franciscan principles - silence being the rule, quite plain around the tomb itself and accompanied by brown robed monks.
We have ample time to visit the basilica together with the town, arriving in Rome early evening. Our hotel in Rome is the four-star Welcome Piram Hotel where we stay on a bed and breakfast basis.
This evening, we will enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Included experience:
Visit to Assisi including a guided tour and dinner in Rome.
Rome
Rome is, without doubt, one of the most captivating cities in the world, where ancient and modern blend perfectly. This morning, we have a sightseeing tour during which you will see many of the principle sights and monuments such as the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain - the list is endless. Probably nowhere else on earth is there so much history in such a small area. It owes its grandeur obviously to the Roman Empire which held sway over much of the globe for nearly 500 years and then to the Papacy which for a large part of its existence, commanded as much political influence as religious. Wealth flooded in throughout the Renaissance and beyond. The result is the abundance of places of interest you see today. But it’s more than buildings and galleries, there are quiet areas, tiny little piazzas, lovely bars, cosy restaurants where the waiters will talk all day if you let them. All this combined gives the uniqueness which is Rome.
Tivoli
This afternoon we visit the historic town of Tivoli, just outside of Rome, here can choose to visit either the Renaissance palace of Villa d’Este or the ruins of Hadrian’s Villa (Villa Adriana). The Villa d’Este is a 16th-century villa, famous for its terraced hillside Italian Renaissance Garden and especially for its profusion of fountains.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hadrian’s Villa, is a large Roman archaeological complex with temples, theatres, and statues. Built by the request of the Emperor Hadrian, the Villa is a monumental living complex that even today continues to display the lavishness and enormous power of Ancient Rome.
Included experience:
Guided tour of Rome and visits to Villa d’Este or the ruins of Hadrian’s Villa.
Free day
This morning you’re free to explore as you desire. You may wish to visit the Vatican Museums the only part of the Papal Palace you can visit independently. Please note that pre-booking on the Vatican Museum website is essential (bookings can be made on the official Vatican website: m.museivaticani.va).This is one of the largest complexes of museums in the world, with collections to do justice to its dimensions. Many works by the finest artists of the Renaissance are on display, as are Egyptian antiquities and exquisite examples of furniture, sculpture and silverware. And, of course, there are Michelangelo’s wondrous ceiling frescoes on the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Alternatively you could take a walk along the Appian Way, where thousands of Spartacus’s slave army were crucified as brutal punishment for their rebellion, or admire the craftsmanship and scale of the Trevi Fountain. Just east of Rome is the Italian town of Tivoli, home to luxe residences, splendid villas, and two famous UNESCO World Heritage sites.
This afternoon you have time to explore the Eternal City further, the weight of the past is inescapable as you view the magnificent heart of the Roman Empire. Gazing at the Forum, the Colosseum, and the Pantheon, it's easy to let your mind wander and imagine those who have preceded you: Julius Caesar, Emperor Augustus, Cleopatra and Mark Antony. Take a stroll around the Piazza Navona, Rome's most picturesque square, lined with luxurious cafés where present-day Romans come to see and be seen. Walk down the Spanish Steps as Countless visitors have done since the 18th-century.
Signature experience:
This morning, experience the wonder of the Vatican with a guided tour of this world-famous attraction. You’ll enjoy a visit with time to immerse yourself in the majesty of its phenomenal art, architecture, sculpture and frescoes and of course, the extraordinary Sistine Chapel.
In the afternoon, we’ll partake in one of Rome’s most-treasured pre-dinner rituals – the aperitivo. Stroll through the city enjoying a light drink paired with delicious nibbles, such as salami and cheeseboards, olives, chips or taralli – a round cracker with a texture similar to a bread stick.
Return home
Today the coach will take you to Rome airport, at the appropriate time, for your flight home after a really memorable tour.
What's Included
Holiday Highlights
Guided tour of historic Rome, home to the Forum, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish steps and more
Guided tour of Siena, one of Europe’s finest medieval cities
Guided tour of Florence, 'Pearl of the Renaissance' with a timed visit to the Uffizi, one of the world’s finest art galleries - entrance fees included
Walking tour of Arezzo, one of Tuscany' most wonderfully unspoilt medieval cities
Visit to Tivoli with a choice of visiting the Renaissance Palace of Villa d'Este or the ruins of Hadrian's Villa
Experience Tuscany’s stunning countryside
Seven nights in 4-star accommodation inclusive of all local taxes, plus breakfast and five dinners (2024 only - 1 dinner in a local restaurant for 2025 departures)
Enjoy a guided tour of Assisi
The Signature Tour option includes all of the above as well as:
Experience a guided visit of the Vatican with an expert and admire its trove of artworks and sculptures
Relax and unwind whilst savouring the spectacular views of Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, over a refreshing aperitivo
Enjoy the gastronomic delights of Trastevere, the historic Jewish quarter with a tour including tastings of local wines and delicacies along with some lesser-known stories and insights from the Eternal City
Enjoy the more exclusive atmosphere of travelling in a small group with an average of 22 guests
Our Price Includes
The price of this Italian tour is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at the relevant supplement. The price includes: 
Return flights
Seven nights’ in three-star superior and four-star accommodation
Bed & Breakfast with 5 dinners included (2024)
Bed & Breakfast with dinner on night 5 (2025)
All local taxes
Transfers
All tours as mentioned
Entrance to the Uffizi gallery
The services of a Riviera Travel tour manager
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Dates and Prices
Accommodation
4* Hotel Minerva - Arezzo -
★★★★
Home to both a bar and restaurant serving local cuisine, the four-star Hotel Minerva unites modern comforts with traditional elements for a great stay just outside the historic city walls. All rooms are air conditioned and have a mini bar(local charges apply), telephone, TV, safe and hairdryer.
Please note the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
4* Golden Tulip Piram - Rome -
★★★★
Housed in a grand 19th century building, the hotel offers a restaurant and cocktail bar, along with spa and wellness facilities (local charges may be applicable). All rooms are furnished in a traditional style and include a safe, satellite tv, air conditioning and mini bar (local charges apply).
Please note the use of air-conditioning in hotels in Italy is at the hotel’s discretion and is normally restricted to the summer months (mid-May to mid-September), depending on the temperature.
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Other Information
Holiday code
R039
Holiday provided by Riviera Travel
BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Riviera Travel (ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430). These ABTA and ATOL bonds mean that, when you book a Riviera Travel holiday, you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.