Tuscany and Cinque Terre

An Active Journey

TRIP DETAILS

10 days from $4,899

Apr. 19–28, May 17–26, Sept. 13–22, Oct. 4–13, 2024

Maximum Travelers: 16

Highlights

• Florence: Investigate the history and mysteries of Florence on a unique walking tour that highlights the city’s little-known stories and symbols.

• Cinque Terre: Go on and off the beaten trail during three full days in this World Heritage site, hiking to all five villages and exploring the island of Palmaria.

• Lucca: Pedal an e-bike around the Renaissance walls of Lucca and into the countryside along a historic aqueduct.

• Chianti Agriturismo Stay: Settle into daily rhythms at a traditional farm in Chianti. Hike through vineyards, enjoy wine tasting and a cooking class, and visit the hilltop towns of Certaldo and San Gimignano.

Itinerary

Days 1–2: Depart for Florence, Italy Fly overnight to Florence and transfer to your hotel in the city center upon arrival. In the evening, meet for an orientation walk and a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D) Hotel Albani Firenze

Day 3: Florence

On a morning walking tour, hear a unique perspective on Florence’s art and monuments and its legendary families. Enjoy free time to explore the city as you wish before gathering for dinner tonight. (B,D) Hotel Albani Firenze

Day 4: La Spezia and Cinque Terre

Transfer to La Spezia, your base for discovering the World Heritage site of Cinque Terre National Park. Take the train to Riomaggiore, then follow centuries-old footpaths to the five villages tucked at the water’s edge beneath vertical coastal mountains. Return by train from Monterosso. With an unlimited train pass, you’ll have the flexibility to hike at your own pace. (B,L) CDHHotelLaSpezia

Day 5: Cinque Terre

Take the train to Levanto and hike through coastal forests, climbing to the hilltop Hermitage of Sant’Antonio del Mesco for a panoramic view of the Cinque Terre coast. Continue to Monterosso and enjoy free time for lunch. Join an optional wine trek and wine-tasting this afternoon. (B)

CDHHotelLaSpezia

Day 6: Palmaria Island and Portovenere

Take the public ferry to Palmaria Island and set out on a circular hiking route that brings you to hidden caves, stunning coves, and ruined fortresses. Cool off with a swim at one of the island’s beaches if you choose. Spend a free afternoon in Portovenere. (B,D)

CDHHotelLaSpezia

Day 7: Lucca and Chianti

Travel to Lucca and join a local guide for an e-bike tour around the city’s Renaissance walls. Continue along Nottolini’s Aqueduct on a country cycle lane. After free time for lunch and exploration in Lucca, drive to the picturesque hills of Chianti. Settle into a family-owned agriturismo and sit down to a Tuscan dinner made with produce from the farm. (B,D) PoderiArcangelo

Day 8: Chianti and Certaldo

Take a walk in the vineyards and a wine cellar tour with an expert, and sample the farm’s wines, olive oils, and locally produced cured meats and bruschetta. Set out on an afternoon hike to Certaldo and ride the funicular to its medieval center.

After a guided tour of the village, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B,L,D) PoderiArcangelo

Day 9: Chianti and San Gimignano

Join a Tuscan chef for a cooking class, making fresh pasta, sauces, and more. Savor your meal with wine pairings on the terrace. Relax at the pool or go for a walk on your own this afternoon. Then visit the medieval hill town of San Gimignano and take a walking tour of this World Heritage site. Celebrate your Italian sojourn tonight during a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,L,D) PoderiArcangelo

Day 10: Florence/Return home

After breakfast, transfer to Florence for your flight home. (B)

Activity Level: Moderate

This journey includes hiking options from 3–6 miles per day, occasionally over steep and uneven terrain; as well as an e-biking option of up to 10 miles.