Tuscany, Cinque Terre & the Portofino Coast

Tour begins: 6:30 PM, Helvetia & Bristol. A transfer is included from the Peretola Airport to the elegant Helvetia & Bristol. Join us this evening for a welcome reception followed by dinner. Stay Two Nights: Helvetia & Bristol (D)

Michelangelo's shadow looms large in Firenze. Sightseeing begins today with an early-opening, private morning visit of the 15th-century Basilica di Santa Croce. Dubbed the "Temple of Italian Glories," Florence's answer to London's Westminster Abbey is filled with the tombs of major Italian legends – including Michelangelo, Galileo, Rossini, Machiavelli, and more, along with a statue that inspired the Statue of Liberty.

Florence's Renaissance heart makes yours beat a little faster as you ramble through it with your Florentine guide, then discover some of the city's masterpieces on a guided visit to the fabulous Uffizi Galleries; the Uffizi is Europe's oldest art gallery, founded by the Medicis to display their countless treasures, today housing some of the world's most beloved art. Today you'll understand how art and history are inextricably intertwined in Florence. (B/L)

Your day begins with exploration of the Sienese countryside south of Florence with a local guide; you'll view some of the prettiest landscapes in Tuscany boasting rolling hills, vineyards, and hilltop towns, and visit the charming Renaissance town of Pienza (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).

This evening, join us for a special apericena at your hotel in the Wine Cellar, dating back to the 13th century. Stay Two Nights: Grand Hotel Continental (B/L/D)

Awaken in beautiful Siena; accompany your local guide to discover Siena's many architectural treasures on a walking tour – including its black-and-white Duomo, one of Italy's great cathedrals, with scenes inlaid in the marble floors and sculpture by Michelangelo. You'll see the Piazza del Campo – where the famous Palio bareback horse race has been held twice every year for centuries – Palazzo Salimbeni, Palazzo Tolomei, Torre di Mangia, Santa Maria della Scalla and more.

Spend the afternoon exploring as you please, or join us at Palazzo Pubblico in Piazza del Campo to view the world's first secular fresco, Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti, followed by free time. (B)

Head to the walled town of Lucca for either a bicycle* tour led by a local guide or a guided walk. This medieval city's surviving Renaissance-era, red-brick walls shut out traffic and the modern world… leaving a peaceful community that still revolves around its original Roman street plan, encircled by a delightful, tree-lined promenade. And because it's topographically flat – unlike most Tuscan towns – Lucca is a cyclist's dream.

One of the best ways to explore this historically powerful and culturally rich city is by bicycle... and, led by your local guide, you'll do just that – down its narrow lanes… across its ancient piazzas… even along the top of its massive walls. At a local agriturismo, enjoy a hands-on lesson with local chefs, an olive oil and wine tasting, and a pasta-making class. Stay: Grand Universe Lucca (B/L)

Weather permitting, ride a ferry along the coast to Vernazza, one of five remote fishing villages strung like jewels along the coast – Cinque Terre National Park, "the five lands." They're now linked to the outside world by rail, but for centuries were accessible only by sea… or on foot, the best way to appreciate life in what is truly a world of its own. Disembark for a walking tour of the village followed by lunch at a local trattoria.

This afternoon, you'll have a choice of activities. You may either stay in Vernazza for free time to do as you wish, or embark by train to explore another village. Arrive in the town of Rapallo on the Italian Riviera for a two-night stay. Stay Two Nights: Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa (B/L)

Ferry this morning to the small fishing village of Portofino, revered by artists and writers for its stunning Mediterranean setting; if you wish, walk up the steep climb to Castello Brown for amazing views overlooking the port.

This afternoon, enjoy a docent-led visit at La Cervara, a 14th-century abbey renowned for its stunning gardens overlooking the sea. Join us this evening for a farewell reception at your hotel, followed by dinner. (B/L/D)

Tour ends: Genoa. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Grand Hotel Bristol Resort & Spa to Genoa Airport or Genoa train station, or you can post-stay in Genoa (ask at booking). Allow three hours for flight check-in at the airport. (B)