Veni, Vidi, Vici: Umbria & Tuscany By Design

Day 1

ARRIVE IN OSTIA Welcome to Ostia! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

Day 2

OSTIA–VITERBO–SPOLETO VITERBO Guided walking tour and free time for lunch.
SPOLETO Orientation. (B)

Day 3

SPOLETO SPOLETO YourChoice Excursions include one of the following activities of your choice:

TREK: Chasing Waterfalls

Among the highest cataracts in Europe, Marmore Falls is the highest man-made waterfall in the world. Created by the ancient Romans to drain the swamps above the Nera River, these spectacular falls remain an engineering feat and one of the most spectacular natural attractions of Umbria. Follow an expert natural guide on a short and easy path through the park's pristine natural setting leading up to the falls. You'll get close enough to almost touch the thundering falls. Try not to get soaked!

GAZE: Isn't it Romantic?

The excellent location of the city of Terni has ensured that it was an important trading and transport center for goods of all kinds throughout history. So, it's no wonder that Terni was not a very small city, even during Rome's world power. See the Roman amphitheater, where concerts are still performed today a perfect example of Roman legacy. Terni is also the birthplace of St. Valentine, protector of lovers. Visit the saint's tomb at Basilica San Valentino and learn all about his life.

STROLL: Diamonds in the Rough

Wild truffles have been called the diamonds of the kitchen. These jewels of haute cuisine are hard to come by and in great demand by elite chefs across Europe who pay top dollar (or Euro) for this flavorful delicacy. During an unforgettable cultural experience in the hills of Umbria, you'll learn the art of truffle hunting with local farmers who share everything you need to know about finding, collecting, and cultivating truffles. A great experience for foodies and wine lovers, this excursion to Umbria will also delight you with its spectacular countryside and lovely people.

Day 4

SPOLETO–PERUGIA–SIENA PERUGIA Orientation and free time.
SIENA Guided walking tour includes sights of the Duomo and Piazza del Campo. (B)

Day 5

SIENA SIENA YourChoice Excursions include one of the following activities of your choice:

PEDAL: Firenze in Bicicletta

Discover the soul of Florence on a small-group bike tour through its maze of quaint cobblestone alleys and small piazzas. Breathe in fresh air and the city's most impressive landmarks, including historic city center and Oltrarno. On this guided bike ride, uncover Florence's hidden views and secret spots only the locals know and love. Take a break, park your bike, and relax with lunch at a local restaurant!

FEAST: Like Mama Used to Make!

Learn how to prepare an authentic Tuscan meal from the freshest seasonal ingredients. Under the instruction of a professional chef, you'll learn the secret techniques for preparing wonderful dishes using fresh, organic ingredients. Your personal chef instructor will assist you in preparing a delicious Italian meal, including appetizers, a made-from-scratch pasta dish and dessert. Mangia!

GAZE: When in Florence

Follow your expert Local Guide through a maze of must-see-sights and legendary landmarks. You'll hear a secret or two about the stunning sights that only locals know, and celebrate your day with a traditional T-bone steak for lunch in one of the best ristoranti in Florence.

Day 6

SIENA SIENA YourChoice Excursions include one of the following activities of your choice:

DELVE: Time Travel in Tuscany

Located on a hill 550 meters above sea level. the ancient city of Volterra is visible from afar and dominates the entire area with a magnificent view from its legendary fortress walls and gates. On a clear day, you'll see as far as the Apuan Alps and across the Mediterranean Sea 50 km away to Corsica. Discover nearly 3000 years of history in one of Italy's oldest cities with a visit to the Museo Etrusco Guarnacci for an in-depth look at its extraordinary Etruscan culture.

CREATE: Color Your World

Find your inner artist in Siena. Follow your painting instructor to learn how to draw with free-flowing lines and stir your imagination while mixing and brushing translucent watercolors onto the canvas to create a masterpiece of your own to take home.

PLAY: Golf Swings

Take your pick of a day on the links or working out the kinks at Royal Golf La Bagnaia. Serenely situated on more than 130 hectares of wooded hills and tranquil landscapes, this prestigious golf course was designed by renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. to skillfully blend with the ancient ambience of the surrounding area. La Bagnaia Resort has risen to the top in Tuscan golfing circles, offering one of the most thoughtful course designs in Italy.

Day 7

SIENA–CIVITA DI BAGNOREGIO–NETTUNO–OSTIA CIVITA DI BAGNOREGIO Guided walking tour.
NETTUNO Visit the American Cemetery.
OSTIA Farewell dinner at local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 8

OSTIA Your vacation ends with breakfast in the morning. (The nearest airport is Rome.) (B)