7 Days - Local Living Italy—Tuscany San Gimignano - A one of a kind National Geographic Journeys by G Adventures
There's so much to do - visit local vineyards, explore the medieval highlights, and embrace your inner artist while walking amongst the picturesque Tuscan countryside. There are day trips to Siena and Florence for an even deeper dive into the Italian cities. You'll be staying with like-minded travelers and our very own CEO (Chief Experience Officer) who will be there to guide you every step of the way. Get ready to fall head over heels in love with Italy!
Get ready to immerse yourself in the heart of central Tuscany, in the lovely town of San Gimignano.. This unique Local Living adventure places you in the heart of central Tuscany. You’re free to explore the town, visit vineyards, discover medieval highlights, or embrace your inner artist wandering the Tuscan countryside. If you’re looking for a deeper dive into Italian cities, there’ll be day trips to visit Siena and Florence. Prepare to fall in love with Italy.
- Share an apartment in our local friend Ugo's home, You’ll share the main accommodation with like-minded travelers and a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) there to point you in the right direction.
- Eat delicious Tuscan cuisine and sample regional wines
- Stroll the lanes of medieval San Gimignano
- Walk along the beautiful Tuscan countryside
- Make new friends at your home away from home
ITINERARY
Day 1Rome
Arrive at any time.
We highly recommend booking pre-tour accommodations in Rome to fully experience all this amazing city has to offer. There's lots to explore!
Please note that if Vatican City is on your must-see list, we highly recommend purchasing your tickets online several weeks prior to your trip. Same-day entrance to St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) cannot be guaranteed without advance tickets.
Accommodation :Hotel San Marco Rome (or similar)
Optional Activities - Day 1
- Vatican Museum VisitVatican City 2h-3h 20 EUR per person - The Vatican Museums are near St Peter's Basilica and contain priceless works of art from ancient to modern times. There are many different galleries but seeing all of them is definitely not possible in one day, so do a little research before visiting and decide what you really want to see. Two of the most well-known exhibits in the Vatican Museums are the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael rooms.
- Sistine Chapel Vatican City 1h-2h 10 EUR per person - Although the Sistine Chapel is always very crowded, it is a must-see for any visitor to the Vatican. The magnificent frescoed ceiling of the chapel painted by Michelangelo depicts over 300 figures from the Book of Genesis, the most well-known being “The Creation of Adam,” showing God touching the finger of Adam. “The Last Judgment” on the west wall depicts a scene from the Book of Revelations. Art aficionados, get ready to cross one of your list!
- Pantheon Visit Rome - The Pantheon is one of the most famous buildings in Rome. Originally built during the reign of Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the building was rebuilt under Hadrian in 126 AD. The roof is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, and it contains a circular opening (an oculus). It is easily one of the best-preserved of all the ancient Roman buildings.
- St Peter's Basilica Visit Rome Free - Borghese Gallery Rome 1h-2h 25 EUR per person - Take a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.
- Christian Catacombs Rome 30m-1h 8 EUR per person - Follow a guide through this ancient underground cemetery.
- Colosseum Visit Rome 24 EUR per person - Enjoy a visit to this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Take a tour of the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please! Please note that this must be booked in combination with the Roman Forum Visit and will include a visit to Palatine Hill.
- Trevi Fountain Rome Free - Built above an ancient water source, Trevi Fountain takes its name from the three streets (tre vie) that intersect at this world-famous fountain. Sculpted from travertine stone, the fountain as we know it today was completed in the 18th century. Work your way through the crowds to toss a coin in (with your right hand, over your left shoulder) for good luck - it's also your best chance to see the fountain's marvelous detail.
- Spanish Steps Rome Free - Built to connect the hilltop Trinità dei Monti church with the Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Square) below, the Spanish Steps are a colourful example of Baroque architecture from 18th century Rome. Opt to climb its 136 steps, or simply watch the crowds weave through this popular tourist attraction.
- Trastevere Visit Rome 2h-4h - Cross the Tiber river to reach the quaint medieval neighbourhood of Trastevere. This is a great opportunity to escape the crowds and get a glimpse into local life.
Accommodation : Hotel San Marco Rome (or similar)
Day 2 Rome/San Gimignano
Enjoy a morning orientation walk in Rome, then travel in the afternoon via train and bus to your home for the week. Take an orientation stroll with the CEO for a first glance at San Gimignano.
Transfer by train and bus to San Gimignano and walk to your home for the week, which is located just outside the beautiful medieval hill town of San Gimignano. The property owner, Ugo, is a San Gimignano native and is a fountain of information about the area. He lives in one of the apartments in his remodeled medieval house.
- Orientation Walk 30m-1h - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
- TrainRome – Poggibonsi 2h30m - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Local Bus Poggibonsi – San Gimignano 30m - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Accommodation : Agriturismo Casa Florelia (or similar)
Day 3 San Gimignano
Walk on top of the medieval city walls of San Gimignano for a new perspective on the town and sweeping views of the area. Enjoy an included half-day cooking class in the afternoon.
Medieval City Wall
Take a walk with your CEO around San Gimignano's medieval walls dating back to the 13th century and enjoy sweeping views both outside the walls and down little backstreets within the town. Walk all 7km (4.3 mi) or opt out partway.
Your Foodie Moment: Half-day Cooking Class
Expand your culinary skills with a cooking class. Learn how to prepare typical Tuscan dishes and enjoy the fruits of your labour.
Optional Activities - Day 3
- Wine Museum San Gimignano Free - Learn about the history of San Gimignano's famous wine, Vernaccia. Opt to indulge in a sommelier-guided tasting and enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace.
- San Gimignano 1300 Museum San Gimignano - Catch a glimpse into the past with a visit to this gallery. Tour the hand-sculpted reconstruction of medieval street life scenes, representing a culmination of more than 20,000 man hours to complete.
- Collegiate Church of San GimignanoSan Gimignano - Explore the frescos and towers of this beautiful medieval Roman Catholic collegiate.
- Torre Grossa San Gimignano Free- Climb up San Gimignano's highest tower, and enjoy the panoramic views over the town.
- Francigena Walk San Gimignano - Considered to be one of the most scenic routes in the region, the walk between San Gimignano to Montalcino is part of the Camino di Santiago pilgrimage route. Walk through a portion of this route and enjoy the rolling Tuscan hills.
Day 4 Florence Day Trip
Enjoy a day trip to Florence with plenty of free time to check out local museums and plazas. Opt to go out for a group dinner back in San Gimignano or cook together at the apartments.
While the group will travel together to Florence, the return time is flexible and can vary by each person's touristing stamina. The return ticket is provided, but you decide when to leave.
- Local Bus San Gimignano – Poggibonsi 30m - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Train Poggibonsi – Florence 1h30m-2h - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Free Time Florence - Get out and explore Florence's many museums and plazas.
- Train Florence – Poggibonsi 1h30m-2h - Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
- Local Bus Poggibonsi – San Gimignano 30m - Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Optional Activities - Day 4
- Il Duomo di Firenze Visit Florence (Free) -This green-pink-white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed.
- Medici Chapels Visit Florence 8 EUR per person - Admire the opulence of the two Medici Chapels. The Sagrestia Nuova was designed by Michelangelo and built as a mausoleum for the powerful Medici family.
- David (Galleria dell'Accademia) Visit Florence 22.50-26.50 EUR per person - Visit Michelangelo's most famous statue, 'David'. Marvel at the artistry on display in the intricately carved piece of marble. Please note that pre-booking your admission online will be 26.50EUR and booking on site will be 22.50EUR.
- Mercato Centrale (Mercato di San Lorenzo) Visit Florence - Pick up a purse (or several!), leatherbound journals, Florentine paper, and any off-colour David statue souvenirs you wish.
- Uffizi Gallery Visit Florence 20.75EUR per person - Head to the Uffizi Gallery to see spectacular Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci paintings in person.
- Ponte Vecchio Visit Florence - Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.
- National Museum of Bargello Florence 15.75 EUR per person - Explore this museum, housed in one of the earliest buildings in Florence (dating to 1255). Stroll through the corridors to learn about the history of this site and its many uses, and see the fantastic works from master artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo.
- Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern ArtFlorence 1h-2h 17.75 EUR per person - Visiti the Pitti Palace and learn about history alongside modern art.
Accommodation :Agriturismo Casa Florelia (or similar)
Day 5 San Gimignano
Enjoy free time to visit the San Gimignano market in the morning before a leisurely walk through the Tuscan countryside along the historical Via Francigena path to Montauto, where great views of San Gimignano from afar await. In the evening, enjoy a tasting of some local wines.
The Via Francigena, a historical path in use approximately 1,000 years ago by those making pilgrimage between Canterbury, England, and Rome, runs very close to the Local Living house. It is great path for those who wish to explore the Tuscan countryside by foot.
Tuscan Countryside Walk San Gimignano 2h30m-3h 12km
Take the ancient Via Francigena path, which passes alongside our accommodation, and walk through some woods, across a stream, and then through vineyards up to Montauto, which offers outstanding views of San Gimignano. Head back down the hill and along a country road.
Your Local Living Moment: Local Wine Tasting
What's a Tuscan holiday without sampling its renowned wines? Sample local wine varieties (provided by Ugo) upon returning to the rustic farmhouse for the night.
Accommodation :Agriturismo Casa Florelia (or similar)
Day 6 Siena Day Trip
Enjoy a day trip to Siena including an orientation walk with the CEO. In the evening, sit down to a home cooked dinner with your Local Living host, Ugo.
Siena Visit Siena 75km
Head to nearby Siena and wander this medieval walled city. Options abound! Visit the gorgeous Duomo and the Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio horse race is held each summer. Climb the Torre del Mangia for fantastic views of the Tuscan landscape.
Orientation Walk 30m-1h
Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Your Local Living Moment: Home Cooked Dinner with Ugo
Enjoy a dinner prepared by your host, Ugo. Sit back, relax and take in the aromas and flavours of delicious Italian home-cooking.
Optional Activities - Day 6
- Torre del Mangia Visit Siena 8 EUR per person - Torre del Mangia stands tall in the centre of the famous Piazza del Campo. Visit this medieval building and climb the tower for fantastic views over the Tuscan countryside.
- Il Campo Visit Siena - Visit the Piazza del Campo, the main public square in the centre of Siena. One of the best examples of medieval European squares, the architecture of this area is striking. The Torre del Mangia is in the centre of the shell-shaped piazza and is worth climbing for the beautiful views it affords. Twice a year, the tiny square is transformed by the ancient Palio horse race.
- Duomo di Siena Siena 4 EUR per person - The Duomo of Siena is one of the most stunning cathedrals in Italy. The green and white marble running around the sides is highlighted by red marble in front, and detailed carvings adorn the entire structure. Originally built between 1215 and 1263, this ancient edifice is a must see.
Optional Activities - Day 7
- Vatican Museum Visit Vatican City 2h-3h20 EUR per person - The Vatican Museums are near St Peter's Basilica and contain priceless works of art from ancient to modern times. There are many different galleries but seeing all of them is definitely not possible in one day, so do a little research before visiting and decide what you really want to see. Two of the most well-known exhibits in the Vatican Museums are the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael rooms.
- Roman Forum Visit Rome1h-2h 24EUR per person - Even with the bustle of modern day Rome whizzing past on Vespas, you can still lose yourself in the fragmented columns and ancient ruins of this plaza, conjuring images of the rich Romans sauntering by in togas. Please note, this must be booked in combination with the Colosseum Visit and will include a visit to Palatine Hill.
- Sistine Chapel Vatican City 1h-2h 10EUR per person - Although the Sistine Chapel is always very crowded, it is a must-see for any visitor to the Vatican. The magnificent frescoed ceiling of the chapel painted by Michelangelo depicts over 300 figures from the Book of Genesis, the most well-known being “The Creation of Adam,” showing God touching the finger of Adam. “The Last Judgment” on the west wall depicts a scene from the Book of Revelations. Art aficionados, get ready to cross one of your list!
- Borghese Gallery Rome 1h-2h 25EUR per person - Take a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.
- Christian Catacombs Rome 30m-1h 8EUR per person - Follow a guide through this ancient underground cemetary.
- Pantheon Visit Rome - The Pantheon is one of the most famous buildings in Rome. Originally built during the reign of Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the building was rebuilt under Hadrian in 126 AD. The roof is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, and it contains a circular opening (an oculus). It is easily one of the best-preserved of all the ancient Roman buildings.
- St Peter's Basilica Visit Rome Free
- Colosseum Visit Rome 24EUR per person - Enjoy a visit to this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Take a tour of the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please! Please note that this must be booked in combination with the Roman Forum Visit and will include a visit to Palatine Hill.
- Trevi Fountain Rome Free - Built above an ancient water source, Trevi Fountain takes its name from the three streets (tre vie) that intersect at this world-famous fountain. Sculpted from travertine stone, the fountain as we know it today was completed in the 18th century. Work your way through the crowds to toss a coin in (with your right hand, over your left shoulder) for good luck - it's also your best chance to see the fountain's marvelous detail.
- Spanish Steps Rome Free - Built to connect the hilltop Trinità dei Monti church with the Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Square) below, the Spanish Steps are a colourful example of Baroque architecture from 18th century Rome. Opt to climb its 136 steps, or simply watch the crowds weave through this popular tourist attraction.
- Trastevere Visit Rome 2h-4h - Cross the Tiber river to reach the quaint medieval neighbourhood of Trastevere. This is a great opportunity to escape the crowds and get a glimpse into local life.
Pricing is available upon request. Tour runs throughout the year.
Tour Details
- Duration: 7 days
- Start/Finish City: Rome to Rome
- Service Level: Standard
- Comfortable tourist-class accommodations with character; mix of public and private transport.
- Physical Grading: 2 - Light
- Light walking and hiking suitable for most fitness levels. Nothing too challenging.
- Travel Style: Local Living
- Intimate unpack-just-once adventures that bring out the best of the world’s best destinations.
- Trip Type: Small Group
- Small group experience; Max 8, Avg 6
What's Included
- Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group
- Your Foodie Moment: Half-day Cooking Class, San Gimignano
- Your Local Living Moment: Local Wine Tasting, San Gimignano
- Your Local Living Moment: Home Cooked Dinner with Ugo, San Gimignano. Orientation walks in Rome, San Gimignano, and Siena. Walk along San Gimignano's medieval wall. Quarter-day walk through the Tuscan countryside to Montauto. Day trips to Siena and Florence. Transport between destinations and included activities.
Highlights
Share an apartment in our local friend Ugo's home, eat delicious Tuscan cuisine and sample regional wines, stroll the lanes of medieval San Gimignano, walk along the beautiful Tuscan countryside, make new friends at your home away from home.
Required Passenger Details for booking:
- Full name as it appears on passport
- Gender
- Date of Birth
- Passport number
- Passport expiry date
- Nationality
It is mandatory for all G Adventures trip travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers for both emergency evacuation and repatriation. We also strongly recommend purchasing an all inclusive plan that covers cancellation/interruption insurance as well. We will send a quote over on request and add this for you once your booking is made.
Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.
Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances. Entrance fees and prices shown are to be used as an approximate guide only and are subject to change by local authorities at any time.
Important Notes
1. It is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places.
2. In Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. We use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses etc. and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.
3.Please note that if during your visit to Italy you wish to visit popular museums such as the Uffizi or Accademia Galleries in Florence, to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially in high season May-September when it could be a question of hours!), it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. Tickets can be reserved online at various websites including www.florenceart.it or www.virtualuffizi.com for Florence and www.tickitaly.com for all.
Group Leader - Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout and local guides.
Group Leader Details: All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our group leaders, a G Adventures representative, or an expedition team. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
Transport: Private van, train, plane, walking.
Solo Travelers - We believe single travelers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travelers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Solo accommodation is available at supplemental cost if preferred (limited availability)
Pricing starting at 7 days Rome to Rome From $ 1317 with current promos applied on certain travel dates. Subject to change and availability by tour operator.
For Booking information - Claire Maguire +1 714-822-8647 Claire.Maguire@Cruiseplanners.com
Credits:
www.bucketlisttraveltrips.com