
Recommended Excursions
Uffizi Gallery
Pre-booking is advised to jump the queues as this is an extremely popular destination for art lovers and tourists alike. Every room, corridor and hallway of the Uffizi is covered in artwork and sculptures all beautifully presented against the subtle interior.
Bargello Museum
Sculptures are prevalent throughout this museum most notably works by Michaelangelo and Donatello, there are also some fine examples of jewellery, Venetian glass and Islamic sculptures.
Duomo
The Basilica di Santa Maria Del Fiore is one of Italy’s largest churches and the dome itself is the second largest in the world. The Gothic style cathedral complex includes the Baptistry and Giotto’s Campinalle, the free standing bell tower that has some great views of the city.
Ponte Vecchio
This was the only bridge not to be destroyed during WWII, hence the name (vecchio means old in Italian). Jewellers and goldsmiths line the medieval crossing and the wealthy noblemen and women used to walk above the stores to avoid any brushes with the general public.
Pitti Palace & Boboli Gardens
The palace of the Pitti family empire contains works by Rubens and Raphael and is renowned for costumes and a fine collection of modern art. The adjacent Boboli gardens present some fabulous views of the city and a peaceful oasis of sculptures and hedges where your group can pause for thought.
Sienna
This is the home of the famous and dangerous Palio horserace that takes place every year in the Piazza del Campo, a circular bowl like piazza in the centre of the city. The medieval cobbled streets, courtyards and cafes make Sienna a ‘must see’ excursion for anyone interested in Italian medieval history and typical Tuscan vistas.
San Gimignano
Taking its name from the man who saved it from the Barbarians, San Gimignano is best-known for its most visible symbols, the 7 medieval bell-towers, the 12th century cathedral, and the narrow streets at the heart of its historic centre. Podesta‘s Tower can be climbed for incredible views of the town and surrounding countryside.
Pisa
Intended to be an embellishment of the neighbouring basilica, the tower has become the main attraction of Pisa thanks to its famous foundation issues. This Italian icon is once again open to the public following extensive renovations to stabilise it.