13 activitati in Florence, Tuscany, ITALY

Peel back the layers on the darker side to Florence’s history and see past the grand appearance into the legends and mysteries surrounding the city. Highlights - Hear of sordid tales from Florence in the medieval ages - Your guide will shed light on mysteries and legends surrounding the most important sites - Discover the cause of their mysterious deaths Many visitors to Florence are dazzled by its beautiful architecture and artwork. Wandering the halls of the Uffizi and gazing on Michelangelo’s ‘David’, it’s hard to imagine the scandal and violence that characterized Florence before the Renaissance. On this night walking tour we peel back the layers to uncover an older, darker side of the city, telling you the legends and mysteries that shed new light on some of the city’s most important sites. Our tour reveals sordid tales of the true Florence from the Medieval Ages. For two hours your guide will lead you around the city of Florence, uncovering the history hidden behind stone walls. You’ll see Palazzo di Bianca Cappello, a palace built by the Grand Duke for his mistress, and discover the cause of their mysterious deaths, only recently brought to light through the use of modern technology. With Piazza Signoria and Ponte Vecchio on our route, you’ll see some of the most famous sites of Florence.

Join our VIP Bites of Florence walking tour to discover the intrigues of Medici Family. Along the way you will taste some of the most typical delicatessen of the Renaissance City, such as a Salumi (cold cuts) plate, a Gottino, an excellent glass of the famous Chianti wine and a hand made Gelato. You want to join the Foodie Medici Family walking tour but you are not sure when you can go? This solution is your best opportunity to take part at our tour in total liberty. Purchase now the tour and when you decide to go ... just arrive at the meeting point at the right time. No reservation is required... just bring your ticket. Medici Family in Florence. Banking, commerce, and religious influence led the Medici Family to become one of the most powerful families in Florence, while tasting some of the best products of the Florentine food culture such as a Gottino (glass of Chianti wine), a selection of traditional Salami, coccoli (deep-fried dough bites) and last a delicious home-made Gelato. The Medici story began when they migrated to Florence from a little town in Tuscany. Our professional guide will escort you on a tour across years of history safely preserved within the architecture, palaces, churches and art that were sponsored by the Medici Family. During the tour we will have the opportunity to observe Palazzo Medici, Palazzo Vecchio the most important civil building in the city; where will also discuss the open air sculptures found within the Loggia della Signoria. We will also observe the Pitti Palace which was home to the Medici family. Strolling along the banks of the Arno will bring us to Ponte Vecchio, a bridge famous for its beautiful gold jewelry; on the top of the bridge is the hidden Vasari Corridor, which allowed the Medici family to travel secretly and safely from their home at Pitti Palace to the government building, Palazzo Vecchio. HIGHLIGHTS Fully Refundable if not used Special price for Kids: a bargain for families! VIP experience in our Monolingual Small Group tour: 25 people or less 3 Food Stops to taste the traditional local flavors Take pleasure sipping Chianti wine and tasting typical Tuscan Salami, coccoli (deep-fried dough bites) and Gelato Hear about the history of Medici Family, and much more! Languages English and Spanish

Discover the natural beauty of Tuscany with a tour of some of its most charming places. Highlights - Stroll through San Gimignano, considered the most beautiful village in Italy - Admire the stunning architecture at the Piazza del Campo in Siena - Enjoy local Tuscan product and wine tasting Encounter the enchanting medieval cities of San Gimignano, Siena and Monteriggioni and escape to the Chianti Hills to find out what makes these rural landscapes so special. Wind through the typical Tuscan countryside before reaching San Gimignano, a small walled town which embraces a medieval environment of unspoilt splendour. Located on a hill, San Gimignano is known worldwide for its tall towers, murals and many other illustrious works of art. Upon arrival in the historic centre of the town, make the most of your free time to discover its hidden secrets before continuing the on to Siena. After free time for lunch (not included) you will meet with a local guide who will show you the old town, starting with its magnificent Piazza del Campo (Piazza del Campo) and the Palazzo Pubblico, the City Hall of Siena. Wander through the narrow medieval streets surrounded by majestic palaces and historic shops before reaching the Museum and the Oratory of a Contrada de Palio (exclusive opening), where you can enjoy the authentic atmosphere of the city. The “Contrade” (17 contrade of Siena districts) is the heart of local social life, where the inhabitants of each district compete with each other as they prepare for the well-known Palio horse race. The Museum of the Contrada, as well as its Oratory, is, therefore, the heart of the neighbourhood. It is an intimate and secret place, with exclusive access, containing historical documents and wonderful relics of the famous Palio, as well as magnificent works of art that are not normally on show to the public. Then head over to the spectacular Cathedral of Siena, a 12th century Catholic cult temple to admire its magnificent architecture and the splendour of the polychromatic marbles. In the afternoon stop at the charming old town of Monteriggioni, a beautiful medieval town surrounded by walls whose appearance has remained mostly intact. Enjoy free time to visit inside these ancient walls that are sure to hold many secrets. Finally, cross the beautiful hills of Chianti through vineyards, hills and picturesque villages to reach a traditional winery where you will enjoy a tasting of four delicious wines, balsamic vinegar and local products. A perfect way to put an end to a memorable experience in the heart of Tuscany. Others Please note that the order of the visits may change When the Museum and the Oratory of the Contrada are not accessible, it will be replaced with another site of historic and cultural interest

Come aboard this “Florentine Gondola” for a romantic and unique cruise and "Aperitivo" on the Arno river! See Florence from a totally different perspective. A leisurely cruise down the River Arno is a great way to see Florence. After you meet the guide you will enjoy a nice short walk through Piazza Signoria and under the Uffizi Gallery, seeing the Pontevecchio (old bridge) from the bank, all the way through to the “embarcadero”. You will then get on board the “Barchetto”, the Florentine Gondola, one of the only 4 original traditional wooden boats left in Florence, conducted by a “Barcaiolo”, a true Florentine tradition holder that will guide the boat with his long-reaching pole. No noisy engines, only the charm of tradition and the voice of your expert guide to unveil the secrets of the Arno river as you stroll on its calm waters and discover its history and the beautiful Palazzos that frame its ancient riverbed. You will pass in front of the Uffizi gallery, the beautiful caretaker of many artistic historical treasures, pass under the unique Ponte Vecchio bridge and you will find out more about the mysterious Vasari Corridor. You will also have the chance to discover the Santa Trinita Bridge and the amazing Palazzo Corsini. You will then enjoy a refreshing “aperitivo” with a glass of cool wine, to celebrate on board your romantic stay in Florence! The commentary is informative but very entertaining and may include a few colorful local stories. The tour is safe and very enjoyable. See and experience the splendor of this special city from the relaxed comfort of an old, gondola style, traditional boat. Language English Others Mini Cruise on the Arno River aboard a Florentine Gondola (approx. 50 min) Free subscription to our Food & Wine Club (25-Euro value), to access special discounts online on wine and typical products

Explore the secret passages and pathways of one of Florence’s most majestic and historic buildings, the Palazzo Vecchio. Highlights - Discover an intriguing network of tunnels and hiding places - Rarely open to the public - Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch in a historic restaurant Transport yourself back in time to the days when Florence’s wealthy families would use any means to seize power and secret escape routes were essential. This intriguing network of tunnels and hiding spaces is normally not available to the general public and guided groups are deliberately kept very small. The tour also includes a typical Florentine lunch in the ancient merchant gallery in the heart of the Medicean district. Ascend the narrow passages of Duke Gualtieri’s medieval stairway and be amazed as a large painting is removed to reveal a secret passage. This is just one of the hidden pathways and chambers that can be found within the walls of this medieval palace. Your expert guide will lead you through the building’s labyrinth of hallways and rooms, pausing to enlighten the group with stories and anecdotes of the palace’s history and its Machiavellian inhabitants throughout the ages. View beautiful paintings and chambers that are usually off limits to the public and climb the palace tower to see incredible views of the city. Admire the coffered ceiling of the impressive Salone dei Cinquecento before heading outside to the famous Medicean district. Enjoy a delicious typical Tuscan lunch in a restaurant full of charm and character in the vibrant ancient merchant open gallery. Start/opening time At 10am between May and October on Saturday and Sunday, and between November and April on Saturdays. End/closing time At 11:45 am plus lunch time. Others Children up to 2 years old are granted free access (lunch not included). For children between 3 and 8 years, child fee applies.

Come and discover Pisa and its famous Leaning Tower! Travel from Florence and lay your eyes on the beautiful Renaissance piazzas and Romanesque buildings of Pisa. Highlights - Guided tour of the well-known Piazza dei Miracoli, monumental cemetery and cathedral Discover another Tuscan treasure and take a trip to Pisa. Known worldwide for its famous Leaning Tower, this tour will take you beyond its iconic symbol to the equally fascinating streets, alleyways and squares that run through the city. We depart from Florence by coach or minivan to Pisa and once we arrive an authorised city guide will accompany you to the exterior of the Leaning Tower and monumental cemetery. Discover the charm of the famous Piazza dei Miracoli and visit the interior of the cathedral before having some free time to roam the Renaissance piazzas and Romanesque buildings of Pisa. As you wander the streets, you’ll get a sense of what Pisa is truly known for in Italy: its education. It is home to one of the most prestigious higher learning institutions in Europe, and you’ll see the many students and student hang-outs once you venture off the Piazza dei Miracoli.

Flexibility and Saving: With Open Voucher Accademia Gallery tour you can feel free to decide the best day for you to enjoy the tour. You don’t need reservation, just arrive at the meeting point 1 h prior to departure, and if not used it is Fully Refundable! Furthermore thanks to the lowest ever price for kids, this is a real bargain for Families! Join our Monolingual Small group tour to admire the imposing statue of Michelangelo, the David the symbol of the Republic of Florence, and other important sculptures. You want to visit the Accademia Gallery but you are not sure when you can go? This solution is your best opportunity to take part at our tour in total liberty. Purchase now the tour and when you decide to go ... just arrive at the meeting point at the right time. No reservation is required... just bring your ticket. In this tour you will have the opportunity to discover more about this imposing statue of a young hero, the David, which became the symbol of the Republic of Florence. This museum displays other important sculptures by Michelangelo, such as I Prigioni (The Incarcerated) and San Matteo (St Matthew), together with an interesting collection of religious paintings and panels. A special section of the Accademia gallery is dedicated to the musical instruments, showing an original Stradivari’s viola belonged to one of the Medici’s members, the Prince Ferdinando, Grand Duke of Tuscany. After the tour, if you’d like, you can remain inside the gallery until closing time. Highlights Skip - the -line to Accademia Gallery Special price for Kids: a bargain for families! VIP experience in our onolingual Small Group tours: 25 people or less Admire the Michelangelo’s David, I Prigioni and much more… Languages English, Spanish

Morning: Total immersion in the Accademia Gallery and in the art of Michelangelo to know his most renowned work, the “David” and other important works of art such as "I Prigioni" and "San Matteo" and the “Palestrina Pietà”. The young Michelangelo carved the David from a huge block of rough marble in three years, creating an imposing sculpture of absolute beauty, an icon of the renaissance model. He depicted a magnificent nude young man at the height of his physical vigor, whose intense expression of strength and courage, which originated from an absolute faith in God, roses as a symbol of power and invincibility of the Florentine Republic at the time of its maximum splendor. Afternoon: The appointment with your guide is in the heart of the historic centre, the splendid gothic Loggia del Bigallo overlooking Piazza Duomo. From here begins your discovery of the amazing complex of monuments that characterise the religious centre of Florence: the Cathedral with its incredible Brunelleschi dome, the Baptistery of San Giovanni with the Porta del Paradiso (Gates of Paradise) and the elegant Giotto bell tower, the loveliest in all of Italy. The walk continues along lively Via Calzaioli in the heart of the city, where you can admire the imposing and singular Orsanmichele Church, a masterpiece of Florentine gothic art, decorated with shrines with statues of the patron saints of the powerful medieval trade guilds. Then we reach the bustling Mercato della Paglia (Straw Market): don’t forget to rub the nose of the famous "porcellino" (pig) and toss a coin into the fountain to bring you good luck! Continuing on, you can admire the romantic, picturesque Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in Florence, with its renowned jewellery shops. Finally we arrive in Piazza Signoria, one of the most beautiful squares in the world and the political centre of the city. In this true “outdoor museum”, you’ll be amazed as you admire the beautiful Fountain of Neptune with the marvellous and imposing marble statue by Ammannati and then, looking around, the sculptural masterpieces of the Loggia dei Lanzi, including the Cellini’s Perseus and the Gianbologna’s Rape of the Sabines. Dominating all this is the majestic Palazzo Vecchio with its crenellated Arnolfo tower, one of the most famous symbols of Florence that you will be able to admire in all its magnificence. Duration 5 hours and 45 minutes Languages English.

Experience the magic of Cinque Terre: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Vernazza and Monterosso. Highlights - Enjoy the colours of fishermen’s houses and a boat ride Walking from village to village admiring the cultivated terraces and the pastel coloured villages hovering between the sky and the sea: this is the best and only way to experience the unique magic of the Cinque Terre. On this tour you will walk through the villages of the Cinque Terre in one day, admiring and exploring these picturesque small towns. The Cinque Terre is a beautiful stretch of rugged coast and the only unspoilt part left of the lovely Italian Riviera. It takes its name from the five picturesque fishing villages of Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. Cinque Terre have been inaccessible from the land for centuries, isolated by steep mountains and valleys on one side and by the sea itself on the other. Thanks to its isolation, the unspoilt charm of the Cinque Terre is a protected World Heritage Site and a National Park. Led by our knowledgeable guides, you will discover the spectacular coastline. We first visit the Cinque Terre village of MANAROLA, at the beginning of the famous path “Via dell’Amore” – or lover’s Lane (if accessible to the public)*, a track winding along the cliff-tops, high above the sea. The visit continues with a short train ride to RIOMAGGIORE where you will have some free time before the lovely boat journey (weather permitting) which take us to MONTEROSSO, which is renowned for its beautiful beach and small craftsmen’s shops. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the Mediterranean or popping into some of the picturesque shops. Lunch by your own (not included in the price). After lunch, we continue our itinerary by train to VERNAZZA one of the prettiest of all, where we will have free time to sit in one of the cheerful bars and cafés. From Vernazza a train ride takes us back to La Spezia concluding our Cinque Terre visit, before returning to Florence by coach. (*) If the “Via dell’Amore” will not be accessible, a longer boat ride will be provided. You also can enjoy a semi-independent tour to pass your free time at your disposal, (lunch not included) If you just want to discover to Florence on your own, you have an excellent option with Round-Trip Transport. Main tour Inclusions: Staff Assistance at the Meeting Point, Transport, Tour Escort, Lunch and Drinks, Boat and Train Tickets (weather permitting) Semi-independent option Inclusions: Staff Assistance at the Meeting Point, Transport, Tour Escort, Boat and Train Tickets (weather permitting) Excluding: Lunch and Drinks Round Trip Transport Option Inclusions: Staff Assistance at the Meeting Point, Transport Excluding: Tour Escort, Lunch and Drinks, Boat and Train Tickets (weather permitting) Languages English

Highlights - All Florence's Top Attractions with a complete Guided Walk - The City's most beautiful Churches, Palaces, Streets and Squares - History, Curiosities and Anecdotes regarding the celebrated Medici Dinasty - Led by a passionate local Guide A fascinating walking tour along the history and the residences of Medici Family The history, the richness and the secrets of the powerful dynasty which made possible the great Renaissance season This fascinating walk winds along an enchanting itinerary of a mile, which crosses for the whole duration a UNESCO World Heritage area: a mile with the highest concentration in the world of wonderful monuments and open-air works of art! Led by a professional local guide, it will be possible to discover the most important sights of the city, retracing the fascinating history of the Medici dynasty, the family which put its power and wealth at the service of the patronage and art, laying so the foundations of Renaissance. You will learn stories and anecdotes of intrigues, power struggles, secrets and betrayals, but also tales of incredible foresight, which made possible to leave to the city and to the whole world, a priceless artistic and cultural heritage. You will be able to admire the palaces, the monuments, the streets and the squares where the members of the Medici family lived and used their political and economic power over the city. You will walk along the same narrow streets where they walked, touch the stones used to build their residences and see the same monuments that they were used to see every day: Palazzo Medici Riccardi, their first residence in San Lorenzo district, where you can find as well their Church and mausoleum: Medici Chapels. A few steps away you will reach then, the magnificent Cathedral, with its imposing Brunelleschi’s Dome and the stunning Palazzo Vecchio, their second residence, which dominates the marvelous Piazza della Signoria. Further on you will follow from the outside the whole path of the Vasari Corridor, the spectacular elevated passageway which connects the two banks of the river Arno, passing along the enchanting Ponte Vecchio and crossing houses and Santa Felicita Church: a secret and comfortable corridor used by the Medici Grand Dukes of Tuscany, to move between the Palazzo Pitti, their third residence, and their offices located inside the Palazzo Vecchio, without being seen by the citizens. The majestic Pitti Palace, which hides the marvelous Boboli Gardens, is the last Florentine residence of the Medici and is also the last stage of your incredible journey into the art and history of a city unique in the world. Include the entrance ticket to the last magnificent Medici’s Residence: Pitti Palace. With your ticket you will be able to visit on your own Palatine Gallery, Gallery of Modern Art, the Museum of Fashion and Costume, Treasure of the Grand Dukes. Languages English, Spanish, Italian, German, French. Between April and October - Portuguese available ​​​​​​on Saturdays and Sundays, (minimum 2 people required)

Discover all the hidden gems of Florence in this three-hour walking tour that ensures you can admire Florence in all its continued glory. The tour includes time to wander through the timeless streets of the historic centre as well as taking in all the key attractions all in one morning Highlights - Marvel at the elegance of Uffizi Square - Skip the queue access to the Accademia Gallery - Visit Duomo Square, home of the world famous Il Duomo It is hard not to be captivated by the Renaissance Architecture and Middle Age History of this enchanting city. Admire the 17ft masterpiece that is Michelangelo´s David as well as listen to the exciting need-to-know information from your expert guide as you learn about the intriguing history tour of Florence. Visit the Duomo Square, home to the magnificent Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral, known locally as Il Duomo, for the stunning dome that crowns it. This incredible feat of engineering required a whole new process for its construction, which your guide will explain to you from the square as you view the marvellous architecture from outside. Before leaving the square, take time to admire the golden "Gates of Paradise". During the walking tour, you will learn about the fascinating history of Florence by visiting the heart of politics and renaissance, famous for its ancient statues and glorious fountains. You'll make your way to the famous Uffizi Gallery and the medieval Palazzo Vecchio. The journey continues as you enter the city´s religious center, stopping at the Church of Orsanmichele, where you can admire the ingenious statues of famous artists such as Donatello, Ghiberti and Verrocchio. Come face to face with of the legendary boar, '' il Porcellino '' and rub his nose to guarantee your return to Florence. Carry on to Piazza della Repubblica, once an ancient Forum, now a meeting place for famous writers, artists and locals alike. The tour ends at Lungarno leaving you facing the Ponte Vecchio Bridge by which point you will undoubtedly by seduced by the beauty of this city, and with the rest of the day ahead of you to explore further. Others The tour does not enter inside the Duomo, however after the tour has finished, you can visit this beautiful Cathedral at your leisure. Please bear in mind that as academy is open to the public on Sundays, you can’t queue jump. So instead of this visit, set out across the city on foot and get to see San Lorenzo Market, Ponte Vecchio, the surroundings of Pitti Palace and Santo Spirito.

Highlights - Explore Florence’s most vibrant local grower’s market. -Try a mouth-watering assortment of local foods such as pecorino cheese, prosciutto di parma, wild boar salami, finocchiona, Chianti wine, typical Italian coffee, biscotti and fresh fruits. -Meet local food experts and growers and find out about how some of these delicious products are grown, made and or produced. -Discover the local secrets behind one of the most well-known food scenes in the world Live Florence like a true Florentine with this colourful guided walk of the city’s most vibrant marketplaces. Watch the locals and the stallholders interact in their own inimitable ways. Marvel at the variety of fresh produce and cured meats. But it’s not all temptation; you will get to try some of these delicious products. The cacophony of sounds in the market as sellers tout their wares and buyers make inquiries is a show in itself while the vast selection of mouthwatering products will tantalise your taste buds. We’ll make stops at local farmers’ stands and check out fresh buffalo mozzarella, ricotta, and other cheeses. You will taste cured Tuscan ham – sliced by hand to preserve its flavour – fresh bread and roasted porchetta. You will sample savoury olives direct from the farmer’s estate on the Amalfi Coast. In the indoor part of the market, feast your eyes on handmade pasta, cheeses, fish, meat, and poultry. Tempt yourself as we wander from stand to stand bursting with delicious and fresh local fare. We’ll end this taste of Florence with a glass of wine (or Italian soda) accompanied by delectable toasted bread with seasonal toppings made by Marco, who owns the final stall on our itinerary. You would never have thought that toast could taste so good. Many come to Italy to enjoy the cuisine, here’s your chance to savour it the way locals do!

Admire the magical AERIAL PANORAMA of the cradle of Renaissance and learn the secrets of the Duomo from a different point of view. An exclusive and neverseen before perspective: admire Florence panorama from Duomoʼs32 metres high TERRACES and climb up to the top of the Dome! Do not miss the chance to take a closer look at the incredible BRUNELLESCHI “CUPOLA”, a masterpiece of art and architecture that still remains unmatched and whose techniques of building are covered with a veil of mystery. An unmissable opportunity to visit this top attraction of Florence which is often fully booked due to its unparalleled beauty and allure. Avoid the queues with our exclusive skip the line access and follow our professional guides inside the immense wonders of the ancient Cathedral of Florence: be impressed by the unique frescoes by Giorgio Vasari and Federico Zuccari, admire the magical colossal clock by Paolo Uccello and discover the beauty of the marble floor with its intricate patterns. Take advantage of your guided tour to discover the fascinating Crypt, which contains the archeological remains of the ancient Cathedral of Santa Reparata. Walk amidst its ruins and admire the floor's fine polychrome mosaic with geometrical decorations. Then, climb the Northern terrace of the Cathedral rooftop, a suggestive walk through narrow and openair corridors that have been closed to the public for centuries. The panorama from up there will take your breath away! We are giving you the chance to join an elite tour within art and history and to discover the hidden Duomo Nort Terrace: the majority of tourists (as well as Florentines!) do not even know that they were planned! The guided tour will end in the exclusive circular room (accessible only with our tour!) where you will have the opportunity to see the old statues which standed in the façade of the Duomo. In the room you can find the restorers at work with their spatulas and chisels still dirty and smelling of stucco. The surprises for you are not over yet: use your ticket to reach the top of the Cupola admiring up close the stunning Last Judgment frescoes, and finally enjoy an amazing 360° view from the top! Language English Others Please note the number of steps to reach the top of each monument: Terraces: 153 Terraces + Brunelleschi's Dome: 153 + 310 from the Terraces