A Taste of Tuscany & the Italian Riviera

After a delightful breakfast, set off in small groups on a captivating tour of Lucca, led by a local guide who will bring the city's rich history vividly to life. Founded by the ancient Etruscans, Lucca is a treasure trove of heritage, with its remarkably preserved Renaissance walls offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

As you wander through the charming city centre, notice the distinctive rectangular grid of streets, a legacy of its Roman origins. Don't miss the fascinating oval-shaped Roman amphitheatre, a reminiscent relic that whispers stories from the antiquated past.

Then in the afternoon, immerse yourself in Lucca at your own pace, the city is brimming with delightful discoveries. Take a leisurely stroll along the shaded promenades or wander its lanes of cobbles, lined with historic facades. Pause to unwind in one of the classical piazzas, where the ambiance is as inviting as the scenery.

As the legendary composer Puccini's birthplace, Lucca is alive with music. Concerts celebrating his masterpieces are a regular feature, and if you're lucky, you might hear the enchanting voices of talented vocalists rehearsing, filling the air with a magical acoustic harmony that enhances the allure of this captivating city. Lucca's timeless charm promises to leave an indelible impression on your journey through Tuscany.

After a pleasant breakfast, we take a short drive to Pisa for a guided tour that reveals the essence of this extraordinary historic city.

Prepare to be amazed by how much grandeur is packed into such little space. The world-famous Leaning Tower, with its instantly recognisable silhouette, serves as your dramatic introduction to the splendour of the Piazza dei Miracoli. This landmark is just the beginning of your journey through this architectural treasure trove.

We end our visit at the Camposanto, a remarkable cemetery steeped in legend, said to contain sacred soil from Golgotha - the site of the crucifixion of Christ. This hallowed ground was the final resting place for Pisa's elite, and the surrounding arched Gothic cloister is adorned with intricate sarcophagi and vast frescoes. Many of these masterpieces are being meticulous restored, offering a glimpse of their original brilliance and adding to the magic of this unforgettable experience.

In the afternoon it's back to Lucca to relax and explore before savouring an unforgettable dining experience at one of Lucca's charming, authentic restaurants, where the flavours of the region come alive. Delight in local delicacies crafted with care and tradition, perfectly paired with a glass of exquisite Tuscan wine. Each bite and sip are a celebration of the region's rich culinary heritage, set against the enchanting backdrop of this celebrated city.

Our morning journey takes us northward through a landscape steeped in artistry and history, passing the majestic Carrara quarries. These dazzling white marble cliffs have supplied the world's finest stone for centuries, inspiring sculptors from Michelangelo to Henry Moore and gracing monuments across Italy and beyond since Roman times.

Continuing to the stunning Ligurian coastline, we arrive at the beautiful Gulf of the Poets, a name as evocative as the scenery itself. Here, we discover the charming village of Portovenere, where a hilltop fortress gazes over a harbour framed by a palette of vibrant multi-storey houses.

Promenade along the waterfront and meander through a labyrinth of narrow Medieval lanes to find the ancient church and castle, each steeped in history.

After soaking in the village's unique charm, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before our journey concludes in Genoa, where we'll settle in for the remainder of our tour, ready to explore even more of Italy's treasures. 

This morning, take a captivating, guided tour of Genoa, in a small group of your fellow travellers. This city was once celebrated as "La Superba" during its maritime golden age. As one of Italy's four great maritime republics, Genoa boasts a storied history and remains home to the largest port in the country. 

Delve into the culinary heritage of Genoa by visiting the greenhouses where the fragrant Genoese basil has been lovingly grown for hundreds of years. Discover the secrets behind the regions world-renowned pesto, learning how it's traditionally crafted with a mortar and pestle. Indulge in a tasting of freshly made pesto and focaccia, perfectly complemented by a glass of local wine - a feast for the senses that captures the essence of Ligurian flavours.

Later, enjoy time at leisure as you wander through the heart of Medieval genoa, where narrow winding lanes known as caruggi weave through the cityscape. These atmospheric alleys are punctuated by magnificent palaces of the late Renaissance, constructed by Genoa's wealthiest families of the 16th and 17th Centuries. Genoa is an energetic, diverse destination offering an enticing blend of history and modernity. From its revitalised port to its acclaimed museums and opulent palazzi, the city is brimming with cultural riches waiting to be uncovered.

Over the next two days, we'll discover the staggering beauty of the Ligurian coastline as locals have for centuries - by the water. A private charter will take you to the outstanding Cinque Terre, or 'Five Lands', a collection of charming villages nestled between dramatic cliffs and the sparkling Mediterranean.

You'll visit a selection of these iconic hamlets - Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, and Riomaggiore - each uniquely picturesque and accessible only by sea or rugged trails. Their striking locations, vivid hues, and seamless integration with the rugged landscape create a scene of unparalleled beauty, making this one of Europe's most captivating coastal destinations.

The region's culinary heritage is as alluring as its landscape. Fresh seafood takes centre stage on local menus, with anchovies as a prized specialty. The steep terraced hillsides yield exquisite olives and fragrant basil, the perfect ingredients for Liguria's famed pesto.

Immerse yourself in the timeless enchantment of the Cinque Terre, where life moves to a gentle rhythm and traditions endure unchanged, offering a glimpse of an authentic, unspoiled way of life.

Glide across glimmering waters, watching watercraft go about their tranquil business, as we sail the short distance to the quaint village of Portofino. Arriving by boat, you'll gain a true appreciation of how this fishing village thrived, it's serene life centred around a stunning natural harbour framed by olive groves and cypress trees.

Once ashore, unwind with a delightful Italian aperitif in hand, savouring the idyllic views of Portofino's charming Piazzetta and placid harbour, where colourful boats bob gently in the water. The enduring beauty of this coastal gem invites you to relax and take in its simple elegance.

For those feeling venturesome, a walk to the nearby headland rewards you with spectacular, invigorating vistas, accompanied by the fragrant scents of pine trees and wildflowers carried on the sea breeze.

In the afternoon, return to Genoa where you'll have a bit of free time to explore this intriguing coastal city further. Venture the streets to uncover hidden treasures, or simply settle into the cosy local restaurant to enjoy a leisurely dinner, soaking up the vibrant ambiance of this fascinating destination.