ITALIAN RIVIERA & FLORENCE
Savor Scrumptious Seafood & Magnificent Views
along the Italian Riviera
Liguria offers the exquisite seacoast of the Italian Riviera, including the colorful cliffside villages of the Cinque Terre which have inspired artists and vacationers for centuries due to their natural beauty. Enjoy a glass of local wine (the local vintages are always the best!) and unwind seaside at charming cove beach facing the turquoise waters! Round out your vacation in Tuscany with a look at Michelangelo's favorite haunts! And Florence, the city of the Renaissance, need we say more?! Excellent food choices abound! Oh, and the shopping, can’t be beat!
UNIQUELY BETHESDA TRAVEL CENTER
“It All Starts with a Conversation!”
Together, in our detailed consultation we create the vision of your very own personalized itinerary. We determine how much time to spend in each destination, choose from our favorite hotels, arrange appropriate transportation and create unique experiences with our dynamic local guides! Relax while our team brings everything to life. Our customized travel app gives you easy access to all itinerary details, plus suggestions for your free time and some dining ideas! We seamlessly integrate technology, experience and attention to detail to create your very own custom-tailored “Trip of a Lifetime!”
OUR SAMPLE ITINERARY
Day 1
Arrive Sestri Levante and Explore this Picturesque Resort Town
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Arrive in Genoa, where you will be met for the transfer to your centrally located hotel in Sestri Levante. Enjoy the sight of the rocky coastline with terraced hills and vineyards that curve down to the sea
Day
2, 3, 4
Immerse in the Beauty and Distinct Characters of the Italian Riviera
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These next few days are yours to enjoy. Plenty of opportunities for private guiding for a detailed visit to the Cinque Terre, comprised of five villages - can you name them? Hint: Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore, all easily accessible via train and boat (or private boat). ​Possible chance for a day trip to visit Portofino, Santa Margherita Ligure, Camogli or the charming fishing village of Boccadasse
Day 5
Discover Medieval Towns en Route to Florence
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Transfer down the coast with potential stops in Carrara known for the white mountains (hint: Marble), Pietrasanta, or the walled city of Lucca. Consider a stop in Pisa to visit the famous Leaning Tower and the Basilica, perhaps climb to the top for stunning views over the city. ​Proceed to Florence for check-in at your centrally located hotel. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore the local ristoranti and many leather, jewelry and gelato shops
Day 6
Explore Florence and its Famous Academy Gallery
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Detailed private sightseeing through the City of the Medici, including Michelangelo's David at the Academy Gallery, the Duomo, Basilica of Santa Croce and Ponte Vecchio. Free afternoon to shop or visit Palazzo Pitti or the Medici Chapels
Day 7
Admire the Hidden Gems at the Uffizi Gallery and the Bargello Museum
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Time to visit the famous Uffizi Gallery and the Bargello Museum. Enjoy your journey back to the days of the Renaissance through the priceless collections of paintings, sculptures and other masterpieces. The afternoon is at your leisure to relax and find your favorite Tuscan trattoria! We will of course share our favorites with you
Day 8
Depart Florence
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Transfer to the airport now for your home-bound flights. Same-day arrival in the USA. Welcome home!
Best time to travel
These are year round destinations - FYI boats in the Riviera are seasonal and weather dependent, however the convenient local trains run year-round, and some hotels do close seasonally, The huge advantage of traveling during the off season (Nov-Mar) is that you miss the summertime crowds! Florence has become a major year round destination with a mild winter climate and expanded European flight schedules operating all year
Call us now! Our experienced travel team is eager to listen to your interests and desires to craft a uniquely personalized itinerary. Remember! Our specialty is listening to YOU as we work together to craft the very best itinerary, pace and hotel selections for you and your family!
Buon Viaggio! We are just a phone call or an email away!