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21

For more information, call: 800-935-5000 or visit:

www.centralholidays.com

DAY 1

I

THU

I

FLORENCE

I

PISTOIA

Arrive at Florence airport and

transfer to your hotel located in the Tuscan countryside just outside of

Florence. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Gather this evening for our

welcome dinner. (D)

DAY 2

I

FRI

I

PISTOIA

I

SIENA

I

CHIANTI CLASSICO

I

SAN GIMIGNANO

I

PISTOIA

This morning we travel to Siena through Tuscany’s rolling hills

and Chianti’s Vineyards. Explore the maze of narrow streets and alleys

around the Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s oldest and most

spectacular public squares that is famous for the Palio bareback horse

race. Lunch today in the Chianti territory gives you the opportunity to

learn about local wines and culinary specialties during a wine tasting

session followed by lunch. In the afternoon visit medieval San

Gimignano known for its soaring towers. Delve into town’s center, called

“Medieval Manhattan;” stroll the quaint alleyways and its colorful

pottery shops and small museums; and sample one of the best Italian

gelato’s on the triangular-shaped Piazza della Cisterna. Return to your

hotel late in the afternoon. (B,L)

DAY 3

I

SAT

I

PISTOIA

I

FLORENCE

I

PISTOIA

This morning, depart for a

full day excursion to Florence. The tour begins at Michelangelo square

with its breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Your walking tour

takes you to Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery, Piazza della Signoria,

and the church of Santa Croce. You will also visit the Accademia Gallery

to view Michelangelo’s world-famous “David” statue. The tour

concludes with a visit to a leather shop where you will learn about

traditional leather gilding. Lunch at leisure gives you the opportunity to

delve into Florence’s Tuscan food scene. In the afternoon, take time to

enjoy the city center, Ponte Vecchio and opportunities for shopping in

the abundant Florentine boutiques and shops. This evening you will

share in a splendid included dinner at your villa in Pistoia. (B,D)

DAY 4

I

SUN

I

PISTOIA

I

CINQUE TERRE

I

SANTA MARGHERITA

Depart Pistoia this morning and drive through the Tuscan Apennine hills

towards the Italian Riviera’s rugged coastline. Revel in the day of

exploring Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Starting in La

Spezia, you will visit the most picturesque villages along the coast.

See Riomaggiore, where the famous “Love Trail” (La via dell'Amore)

begins; Vernazza, referred to as the most beautiful of these villages;

and Monterosso, known for its well-developed fishing and cultivating

on terraces. The area is acclaimed for the production of its light and

refreshing white wines and fresh basil used in authentic green pesto

sauce. Opt to try some of these local specialities as you venture off for

lunch on your own. In the afternoon, journey north and check in at your

hotel on the Italian Riviera. (B)

DAY 5

I

MON

I

SANTA MARGHERITA

I

PORTOFINO

I

SANTA

MARGHERITA

After breakfast, head to the port and board your vessel

to the spectacular resort town of Portofino. Once a simple fishing

village, Portofino today is a trendy vacation hot-spot, brimming with

countless sleek and palatial mega-yachts. Enjoy free time to explore

this breathtaking coastal gem and savor lunch on your own. Return to

your hotel in the afternoon. (B)

DAY 6

I

TUE

I

SANTA MARGHERITA

I

MILAN

I

STRESA

Check-out of

your Italian Riviera hotel and embark on today’s adventure, stopping

first in Milan. Depart on an insightful city tour, starting at the 15th

century Sforza Castle where you can admire the frescoes painted by

Leonardo Da Vinci. Continue along to the world famous Opera House

La Scala, founded by Empress Maria Theresa of Austria in 1778. Take

time to explore this vibrant cosmopolitan city at leisure and enjoy lunch

on your own. Later in the afternoon, head to Stresa in the Italian Lakes

District and check in to your hotel. (B)

Vineyard in Chianti, Tuscany

View of Siena city