Italy
New Year's In Florence
Program No. 19221RJ
Ring in the New Year in Florence, enjoying cuisine, culture, and artistic traditions as you learn about Renaissance architecture and the region’s fascinating history.
Enroll with Confidence
We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. Learn more
Protecting the Environment
We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Not seeing the date you're looking for?
To be notified if dates of this program become available, click the button below.
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
9 days
8 nights
15 meals
7B 3L 5D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
3
Palazzo Pitti, Free Time
Florence
8
Accademia, Free Time
Florence
9
Program Concludes
Florence
At a Glance
Embrace the birth of a new year in the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Florence. Absorb the incredible wealth of artistic treasures in the city that Cimabue, Giotto, Donatello, Michelangelo and da Vinci called home. Delve into the Tuscan capital’s fascinating political history from its Roman origins to the Medici dynasty to Machiavelli. And celebrate the dawning of a new year in true Italian style.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to four miles a day. Extended standing during site visits with limited or no public seating. Uneven terrain, limited public handrails, unavoidable stairs, marble and terracotta flooring, cobblestones. Elevator use is limited or restricted in historic sites. Expect crowded conditions in pedestrian centers and museums.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Discover the collections of the Uffizi, one of the world’s finest museums boasting works by Titian, Michelangelo, da Vinci, Botticelli, and many more.
- Learn about the genius of Michelangelo at the Accademia and admire the "David."
- Experience the Tuscan countryside on an excursion to where Chianti wine is produced.
General Notes
Give us a call to combine this learning adventure with, "Christmas in Sorrento" (#23713) or "Christmas in Rome" (#19115) for even more learning in Italy! We'll even transfer you for free between locations.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Bianca Obradovic
Bianca is originally from the former Yugoslavia, but after studying at the American Business School in Rome 30 years ago, she decided to make Italy her home. She is fluent in English, Italian, French, and Arabic among other languages. Bianca has worked as the site coordinator and group leader for numerous educational travel companies in Italy and in the Mediterranean.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Bianca Obradovic
View biography
Bianca is originally from the former Yugoslavia, but after studying at the American Business School in Rome 30 years ago, she decided to make Italy her home. She is fluent in English, Italian, French, and Arabic among other languages. Bianca has worked as the site coordinator and group leader for numerous educational travel companies in Italy and in the Mediterranean.
Suzanne Myers
View biography
Suzanne Myers originally hails from Lincoln, Nebraska and has been living in Florence since 2011. She has a BA in art history from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota and an MA in art history from Syracuse University. She works as a lecturer for several study away programs in Florence and as a licensed group leader. Suzanne specializes in Italian Renaissance art, but also loves to lecture on a wide range of subjects from the Medici family to the Black Death to Florentine fashion.
Elena Cappelli
View biography
Elena Cappelli was born in Florence and studied at the Università degli Studi di Firenze where she completed her degree in foreign languages. She worked for a number of years as an event planner for a cultural association. A few years ago, she decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps to showcase her city to visitors, soon becoming a licensed expert in Florence. Elena lives in the Oltrarno neighborhood, an old residential district on the other side of the Arno River, with her teenage children.
Suggested Reading List
(10 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
New Year's In Florence
Program Number: 19221
Art in Renaissance Italy
A comprehensive and insightful exploration of the art and culture that defined the Italian Renaissance. The book provides a rich and detailed overview of the period from the 13th to the 16th century, during which Italy witnessed a flourishing artistic achievement. Readers are guided through the major artistic centers of the Renaissance, including Florence, Rome, Venice, and Siena, as they delve into the works of renowned artists such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raphael. The authors offer a deep analysis of the various artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and decorative arts, while delving into the social, political, and religious contexts that shaped this remarkable period.
Saving Italy: The Race to Rescue a Nation's Treasures from the Nazis
Focused on the period from 1943 to 1945, "Saving Italy" sheds light on the extensive looting and destruction perpetrated by the Nazis and their allies as they occupied Italy. Centered around the work of the Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives program, a group of art experts and military personnel, the book tells the story of their race against time to locate, recover, and safeguard Italy's artistic treasures. The book highlights the determination of individuals who risked their lives to rescue masterpieces, including iconic works by artists like Michelangelo and da Vinci, from the clutches of the Nazis.
A Room with a View
A classic novel that explores the themes of social conventions, love, and personal awakening. The story follows the journey of Lucy Honeychurch, a young Englishwoman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery during a trip to Italy. While staying at a pension in Florence, Lucy encounters a cast of memorable characters who challenge traditional Victorian values and open her eyes to a world of passion and romance. Through misadventures and unexpected encounters, Lucy must navigate the complexities of her heart and the societal expectations that threaten to confine her. The novel is known for its witty social commentary and beautifully evoked settings, making it a timeless exploration of human emotions and the clash between individual desires and societal norms.
Blue Guide Florence
This guidebook provides in-depth insights into Florence's art, history, and culture. Written by experts, it offers detailed information about the city's renowned museums, churches, and architectural treasures, including the Uffizi, Florence Cathedral, and the Palazzo Vecchio. The guide also covers lesser-known gems, hidden courtyards, and local eateries.
Inferno
The adventures of renowned Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon as he finds himself entangled in a deadly race against time. Set against the backdrop of Florence, Italy, Langdon must decipher a series of complex clues based on Dante Alighieri's "Divine Comedy" to prevent a global catastrophe. When Langdon wakes up in a Florence hospital with no memory of how he got there, he soon discovers that he is the target of a sinister plot. With the help of Sienna Brooks, a brilliant doctor, Langdon races through Florence's beautiful and historic streets, solving puzzles and unraveling a mystery that could change the course of human history.
The Birth of Venus
A historical novel that transports readers to the vibrant and tumultuous world of 15th-century Florence. The story revolves around the life of Alessandra Cecchi, a young and talented artist living in a society that stifles women's ambitions and creativity. Alessandra's journey unfolds against the backdrop of the Italian Renaissance, a period of profound cultural, artistic, and political change. As she navigates the challenges of her time, Alessandra becomes embroiled in a web of forbidden love, political intrigue, and artistic passion. Dunant's novel skillfully weaves together art, history, and romance, offering a vivid portrayal of Renaissance Florence and the struggles faced by individuals who dared to defy societal norms.
Michelangelo: The Artist, the Man and his Times
"Michelangelo: The Artist, the Man, and His Times" by William E. Wallace offers a comprehensive exploration of the life and work of one of the most iconic figures in art history, Michelangelo Buonarroti. This biography goes beyond the surface to delve into the complex psyche of the artist and the turbulent times in which he lived. Wallace paints a vivid portrait of Michelangelo's early years in Florence, his tumultuous relationships with patrons and fellow artists, and his enduring legacy as a sculptor, painter, and architect. The book delves into Michelangelo's creative process, shedding light on his masterpieces like the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the Statue of David. At the same time, Wallace provides historical context, detailing the political and social upheavals of the Renaissance period. Readers gain insight into how these events influenced Michelangelo's work and worldview. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, "Michelangelo" is a compelling biography that offers a deeper understanding of the man behind the art.
The House of Medici: Its Rise and Fall
This well-researched and engaging book provides readers with a detailed chronicle of the Medici family's ascent to power in Florence during the 15th century. It explores the family's origins, their role as bankers, and the astute political maneuvers that allowed them to become the de facto rulers of Florence. The Medici's patronage of the arts, particularly their support for artists like Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, is a central theme in the book, highlighting their significant impact on the Renaissance. Hibbert also delves into the tumultuous political landscape of Renaissance Italy, marked by power struggles, alliances, and rivalries between various city-states and noble families.
A Very Italian Christmas: The Greatest Italian Holiday Stories of All Time
"A Very Italian Christmas: The Greatest Italian Holiday Stories of All Time" is an anthology that captures the essence of Italian holiday traditions and emotions through a collection of heartwarming and diverse short stories. These tales, penned by some of Italy's most renowned authors, offer readers a glimpse into how Italians celebrate the holiday season. From tales of love and family to stories of reflection and nostalgia, this anthology weaves together a rich tapestry of Italian life during the festive season. The authors draw upon their cultural heritage and personal experiences to create narratives that resonate with universal themes of love, hope, and the importance of human connection.
The Passion of Artemisia: A Novel
This novel takes readers on a captivating journey through the life and artistry of Artemisia Gentileschi, a remarkable painter in 17th-century Italy. Set against the backdrop of a male-dominated art world and the tumultuous Baroque period, the story explores Artemisia's struggles and triumphs as a pioneering artist. Artemisia Gentileschi, known for her vivid and dramatic paintings, was one of the first recognized female painters of her time. Vreeland's novel delves into Artemisia's personal and artistic evolution, her complex relationships with other artists and patrons, and the challenges she faced as a woman pursuing her passion in a society that often marginalized and oppressed women. "The Passion of Artemisia" offers a compelling blend of art history, historical fiction, and feminist exploration.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
9 days
8 nights
What's Included
15 meals (
7B, 3L, 5D
)
3 expert-led lectures
10 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
7 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Florence, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Florence
Meals:
D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 2:00 p.m. Transfer from Florence Airport to hotel is 4 miles (20-minute ride). Walking less than 1 mile; urban terrain and cobblestones.
Afternoon:
Check-in and settle in. At 4:30 p.m., we gather in the meeting room for an Orientation session. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Breakfasts will be buffets. Other included meals will be plated and served from a set menu unless indicated otherwise; water is included, other beverages will be available for purchase. Evenings at leisure offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable through personal independent exploration, attending performances or other events, or simply relaxing and making new friends among fellow participants. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions. Transportation will be provided primarily by motorcoach and vans. Periods in the schedule designated as "Free time" and "At leisure" offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times might change due to local circumstances/conditions. We will alert you as quickly as possible in the event of changes. Thank you for being so understanding. Next, we will join our Group Leader in a welcome cocktail (or fruit juice).
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Palazzo Pitti, Free Time
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones and some uneven urban stone sidewalks. Elevator available in the Palazzo Pitti.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll set out on foot for our expert-led field trip to the Palazzo Pitti on the other side of the Arno. This former palace was inhabited by members of the Medici family from 1589 until the last, Anna Maria Luisa de' Medici, died in 1743. The palace was home to Napoleon when Tuscany was under French control and later was a residence of the House of Savoy under the period of Italian Unification. Today, the palace is home to works by Antonio Canova, Artemisia Gentileschi, Raphael, Tiziano, and Rubens.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Medieval Origins, Duomo & Museum, Oltrarno, Cooking Class
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day, extended periods of standing; mostly level urban stone sidewalks and streets, cobblestones; elevator available at Opera del Duomo Museum, unavoidable stairs. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will gather in the hotel meeting room for a presentation by a local expert on medieval Florence. We’ll learn of the Roman origins of the city and how, by the end of the 15th century, the Medici family had established a powerful dynasty and went on to rule Florence, transforming it into a cradle of the Renaissance. The Medici rebuilt large areas of the city in Renaissance style; became patrons of the humanities, arts, and science; and collected art treasures. After a short break, we will set out on a field trip and walk to the Duomo where a museum docent will lead our exploration of Florence’s most famous landmark. Known officially as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, it is called simply the Duomo. It is the third-largest church in the world. The magnificent dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and completed in 1434, was startlingly innovative at the time and is considered one of the wonders of the Renaissance. We will also explore the Duomo Museum complex, recently reopened after a major renovation and modernization. It includes more than 750 works of art covering more than seven centuries of history including medieval and Renaissance statues and reliefs in marble, bronze, and silver by leading artists of the day.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
We'll embark on an expert-led visit to the vibrant Oltrarno, often called the "left bank" of the Arno River. This charming and historic area is known for its artisanal heritage, and as we stroll along the narrow, cobblestone streets of this residential neighborhood, we’ll have the chance to observe skilled artisans at work. Depending on the open shops, we may encounter a variety of craftspeople, from potters carefully shaping their clay to furniture restorers meticulously preserving antique pieces. We might also see leather workers fashioning intricate goods or bookbinders preserving the art of traditional bookmaking. The Oltrarno is a charming window into Florence’s rich artisan culture, allowing us to witness firsthand the craftsmanship passed down through generations. Later in the afternoon, we will walk to a renowned culinary school and cooking experience provider, where we will learn how to make a typical Italian dish and dessert. Our passionate and experienced chef provides a hands-on, immersive, and enjoyable way to teach us how to make an authentic Italian dish and dessert.
Dinner:
At the cooking school.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Art Lecture, Uffizi, Free Time, New Year's Eve Dinner
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles total throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones and mostly level urban stone sidewalks and streets. Elevator available at the Uffizi. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In the meeting room of the hotel, an art historian will join us and give an overview of Renaissance Art and, with an illustrated presentation, describe highlighted works of art in the collection of the Uffizi. We will walk to the Uffizi; once inside, we’ll take in a self-directed visit of the many rooms of artistic treasures at your own pace. In the Uffizi, works are arranged in an order that illustrates the progression from the International Gothic style to Mannerist and examples of Baroque art with pieces by Caravaggio and Artemisia Gentilleschi. There is a coffee bar at the end of the corridor on the upper level where you can relax and purchase refreshments while enjoying a commanding view of the bell tower of Palazzo Vecchio and the Cupola of the Duomo.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
We will celebrate New Year’s Eve at a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
San Gimignano, Organic Farm, Chianti, Concert
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 40 miles one way to San Gimignano, under 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with periods of standing during site visits; uneven paths, cobblestones, mostly level urban stone sidewalks, pedestrian-only roads with inclines and descents. Gravel walkways at the agriturismo.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In the late morning, we’ll board a bus and make our way south of Florence, venturing into the picturesque hills of the Chianti region. Known for its rolling vineyards and olive groves, this area is the heart of Tuscany’s wine production, where the famous Chianti red wine is made. Upon arrival in the charming medieval town of San Gimignano, we will enjoy some free time to explore independently. With our Group Leader available to provide guidance, you can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the town’s iconic towers that have earned it the nickname “Medieval Manhattan.” San Gimignano is renowned for its preserved medieval architecture, offering a perfect setting for a leisurely exploration of its historic sites, quaint shops, and local eateries. Whether you visit the Collegiate Church, enjoy panoramic countryside views, or immerse yourself in the town’s medieval charm, San Gimignano offers a memorable experience that perfectly complements our journey through Tuscany. A few miles outside of San Gimignano, we will drive to an organic farm where you can visit the farm and wine cellar. The host explains the production of extra virgin olive oil, wine, saffron, and the characteristics of Chianina cattle.
Lunch:
We’ll enjoy a farm-to-table lunch and wine tasting at an agriturismo.
Afternoon:
We'll board the bus for the return journey to our hotel in Florence.
Dinner:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At a venue in the heart of the Oltrarno, we’ll attend a performance of opera arias by Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini, native son of the nearby city of Lucca. The live performance is by a solo artist with piano accompaniment.
Day
7
Sculpture, Bargello, San Lorenzo, Santa Maria Novella
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones and mostly level urban stone sidewalks.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We begin the day in the hotel meeting room with a lecture on Florentine sculpture. The presentation by a local art historian examines the development of the art form from antiquity through the Renaissance with special emphasis on the works of Ghiberti, Donatello, and Michelangelo. We'll walk to the Bargello where an art historian will lead us through the museum and examine the development of sculpture from antiquity through the Renaissance with special emphasis on the works of Ghiberti, Donatello, and Michelangelo. Notable works include Donatello's David and bronzes by Cellini and Giambologna. Our local expert will then lead us back toward San Lorenzo where we'll learn about this imposing structure and its unfinished facade.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll meet at an appointed time and place to walk to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella complex, located near the city's central train station, to meet our local art historian. Santa Maria Novella is Florence’s Dominican church, built on land assigned to the Order in the early 13th century. The basilica was constructed in the early 15th century; its famous façade was designed by famed Renaissance man, Leon Battista Alberti in the 1470s. The interior of the basilica contains astounding works of 15th-century frescoes, including Masaccio's Trinity and Domenico Ghirlandaio's (and possibly young apprentice Michelangelo) Tornabuoni Chapel, not to mention works by Lorenzo Ghiberti, Giambologna, Bernardo Daddi, and Filippino Lippi. Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Accademia, Free Time
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones and mostly level urban stone sidewalks. Sculptures at the Accademia are on the ground floor; elevator available to the paintings on the first floor. Walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Our day begins with a walk to the Accademia delle Belle Arti where we will marvel at Michelangelo's David. A local expert will lead the field trip through the sculpture collection in the main hall which includes the David as well as the unfinished pieces called the Prisoners, which seem to be still imprisoned in the block of Carrara marble. There are other small collections in the museum that you might want to browse on your own, such as the collection of early musical instruments or the painting gallery with works from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and early 17th century.
Lunch:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most.
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
9
Program Concludes
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. For those with early departures, the hotel will prepare a bag breakfast to take. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Please select a day to update the map
Map details are not available for this location.
MEALS
15 Meals
7 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Dec 27, 2024 - Jan 04, 2025
- Dec 27, 2025 - Jan 04, 2026
Participant Reviews
Based on 8 Reviews
Sort By:
Florence was amazing. The speakers were fantastic, I really cannot speak highly enough of her. She was very knowledgeable, witty, personable, and was able to communicate her knowledge easily. I would have missed a good bit had i not attended her lectures.
The hotel was perfectly placed and it's staff exceedingly helpful, up to, and including getting me a doctor. They called and the doctor was at my room a few hours later. The doctor was thorough and professional. He diagnosed me with untreated bronchitis that had developed into pneumonia. He provided me with prescriptions that were very helpful.
The restaurants were good as were the selections of museums and sights. The Duomo, the Uffizi, and all else were just breath taking.
— Review left February 16, 2024
In the past the review questionnaire has been very specific. This completely open-ended questionnaire is not as useful.
We enjoyed the trip very much. Part of it could have been better, but overall, we had a great time. The order of the museums is great and should stay the same. The lecturer was great. The timing of the cooking class was good (at the beginning of the trip while we were just getting to know each other)- even if the chef didn't speak any English ?!?
I think you are right to emphasize the treacherous nature of the sidewalks. They were.
The New Year's Eve restraurant was particularly good.
Great trip.
— Review left January 11, 2024
Florence was a delightful somewhat less urban experience than Rome. Full of beauty and good food.
— Review left January 9, 2024
Florence at New Years was gorgeous and less crowded than Rome with many Italian families active on the street which was a delight. The stunning exterior of the Duomo left me gasping when I first glimpsed it. It is one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen.
— Review left January 9, 2024
My wife and I, along with another couple, attended the New Year's In Florence program and we couldn't be happier. Our tour leader, Bianca, attended to every need or question with a smile. She was thorough and patient, making sure we reached each destination and no one was left behind. The guided tours of the museums and churches both entertained and educated. Tour guides Suzanne and Elena could not have been better. They possessed a deep understanding of the works of art and architecture we were seeing. The food was excellent, but hey, it's Florence.
Overall, we felt we received great value for our money and would recommend this program to anyone interested.
— Review left January 7, 2024
This is a great way to experience Florence for the first time! I highly recommend it.
— Review left January 20, 2019
I had been to Florence a few years ago and what I mostly wanted from this trip was free time for independent exploring. I was not disappointed. As a group we hit the major attractions like the Duomo museum (closed the last time I was there, the Bargello, and the Uffizi. There were three afternoons with free time so my choices were St. Croce which most everyone else also went to, the Brancacci Chapel for its frescoes, and the National Archeology Museum for its Etruscan collection. Several people choose the Pitti palace. The hotel could not be in a better location. It is on a busy street with lots of shops and restaurants but just away from the large crowds, and it is walking distance to all the major attractions. As a single traveler I had no intention of staying in my room, so in the evening it was an easy 10 minute walk to go out and have a beer, watch the crowds, and enjoy the spectacular Christmas lighting. The provided dinners to me seemed more "gourmet" than authentic, so although they were excellent I enjoyed the chances to walk in a restaurant and just pick something off the menu. I did get up enough courage to have a Lampredotto sandwich, but you need a cast iron stomach or a bottle of Tums to handle it. Marco provided very informative lectures before going out. I had taken some art history courses before, but he gave me a new perspective on how the splitting of the Roman empire, divisions in the church, a rigid system of art, and the rise of the merchant class led to the art of the Renaissance. The New Years day trip to San Gimignano, lunch at a farm, and evening concert of opera selections added to the enjoyment of the trip. Oh, and this is my second Road Scholar trip, and I remain very impressed with the organization.
— Review left January 13, 2019
The combination of the most famous art works of the Italian Renaissance plus an amazingly learned and articulate group leader made this a 5-star experience. Throughout the trip, my friend and I kept saying “Weren’t we smart to choose this trip!” Definitely recommended if you love art and love to learn. Well-paced. Excellent food. Comfortable hotel in a safe area and the group leaders made sure we were oriented so we could explore on our own.
— Review left January 5, 2019
