Rome, Tuscany and Florence

After arriving in Rome and checking in to your centrally located hotel, we recommend getting to grips with the city by visiting one of the greatest attractions, like the mighty Colosseum, still the largest amphitheatre ever built. Afterwards, explore some of the atmospheric streets before enjoying your first Italian meal of the holiday.

This is your first full day in the Eternal City, so plan where you’re going and be sure to pre-book popular attractions to avoid queues. One of the most unmissable of these is a guided tour of the Vatican museums and Sistine chapel, where you can admire the beautiful spiral stairway and the gallery of tapestries before entering the famed Sistine Chapel and iconic St Peter's Basilica. Complete your day by heading across to the city’s inimitable piazzas, where you’ll find a great range of dining options.

Collect your car and leave Rome far behind, as you head across the stunning rural landscape into the heart of Tuscany. The first stop is the medieval hilltop town of Siena (approx. 2.5 hour's drive), where you can check in to one of our extensive range of nearby hotels, villas and apartments for three nights. Once checked in, stroll through the atmospheric streets leading to the impressive fan-shaped Piazza del Campo, and admire the many historic buildings before stopping for an aperitivo at an authentic osteria restaurant.

Today we recommend a visit to Siena Cathedral – one of Italy's finest examples of Gothic Architecture – in order to soak up the hushed ambience and dazzling interior mosaics, before heading off once more. Next stop: nearby San Gimignano (approx. 45 minutes drive), famous for its 14 soaring medieval towers, originally created as symbols of power during the 14th century. The town is packed with enticing trattorie and intriguing craft shops, so you’ll have plenty to see and do for the rest of the afternoon.

Today it’s back on the road as you head north through the Tuscan countryside to the great city of Pisa – famed for its remarkable Leaning Tower. Climb the 294 steps to the top and be rewarded with the panoramic views across the city, or stay on the ground and pose for a photo in front. There’s a lot more to see and do too, so explore at leisure for the rest of the day before heading back to your Tuscany accommodation for the final night.

Today you will be driving to the renowned city of Florence, known for its art and architectural treasures, drop off your car and check in to your centrally located hotel. Get to grips with this magical city by taking a stroll to Piazza della Signoria to admire the Romanesque Palazzo Vecchio with its crenulated rooftop and renaissance style statues. Much of the city is within easy reach from here, so explore at will and learn about some of Italy’s most remarkable sights.

Pre-book a morning tour of the fascinating Academy Gallery home to some of Michelangelo's most famous sculptures, the Prisoners, the St. Matthew and of course the renowned David, or opt for a guided tour around the Uffizi Gallery – boasting an even more impressive array of master artworks. Spend the afternoon admiring the views from the peaceful town of Fiesole, set in the hills just above the city. Ancient ruins and mesmerising panoramas of Florence are easily enjoyed, and it’s only a short drive back to Florence’s many charms.

Today spend the last of your time exploring the streets and sites of Florence, like it's impressive duomo, before transferring to Pisa airport (approx.1 hour) and head back to the UK after a great Italian escape.