Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Setting out from our hotel, we'll enjoy a walk to Montecatini station, where we'll board a regional train bound for Florence. Once we arrive at the city's main station, a fascinating adventure awaits as we rendezvous with a knowledgeable local historian for a captivating walking field trip, immersing ourselves in the charming ambiance of this enchanting Renaissance city. Florence, the beautiful capital of Tuscany, boasts a history that spans over two millennia. Founded by the ancient Romans in the 1st century BCE, the city evolved into a flourishing medieval center during the Middle Ages. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Florence became the cradle of the Italian Renaissance, nurturing extraordinary talents like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. The powerful Medici family was pivotal in shaping the city's cultural and political landscape during this period. Florence also became an influential center of banking and commerce, fostering wealth and artistic patronage. The city has witnessed its share of political upheavals through the centuries, but its enduring legacy as a hub of art, culture, and humanism remains intact. Today, Florence continues to enchant visitors with its magnificent architecture, world-class museums, and a timeless charm that echoes its illustrious past. Following our walk, our next destination will be the Museo Galileo, where an experienced docent will lead us through the museum's walls. We'll be privileged to witness centuries-old astrolabes, globes, and a fascinating array of scientific instruments. A true standout in the collection is the telescope Galileo Galilei once used to gaze upon the heavens, a testament to his groundbreaking discoveries. Detailed storyboards will enlighten us with the captivating narratives behind these artifacts and provide insights into their remarkable functionalities. Please note that there is a possibility of encountering crowded conditions during our visit.
Lunch:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Afternoon:
Between 12:00 p.m. and 3:45 p.m., you will have the opportunity for independent exploration, allowing you to discover Florence at your own pace. Later, we will regroup at the iconic Piazza della Signoria and take a pleasant stroll to the Oltrarno neighborhood, crossing the historic Ponte Vecchio. The highlight of our evening will be attending a delightful cooking school led by a skilled local artisan. Here, we will learn the art of crafting authentic pasta and mouthwatering gelato using the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients. It promises to be a hands-on culinary experience where you'll be able to savor the authentic flavors of Tuscany.
Dinner:
At the cooking school, we will enjoy the foods we helped to prepare.
Evening:
After our eventful day in Florence, we will be transported back to the hotel comfortably aboard a motorcoach.