Activities

The Medici family was one of the most important to ever live in Florence! This powerful Renaissance family resided in several majestic palaces and left behind tons of history. Learn more of their secrets with a local on a Florence Medici tour!

The Medici family’s economic and political success throughout the 1400s allowed Florence to become the cradle of the Renaissance.  In the mid-1500s the Medici family was made by the papacy into a royal dynasty and  it started ruling in Florence and Tuscany as Grand Dukes until the mid-1700s replacing the Florentine Republic. This walking tour takes you to the most important sights in town related to this family of Patrons of the Arts and allows you to discover the most significant art works and monuments the Medici Family commissioned to the Florentine Renaissance artists, including, among the others, Brunelleschi and Michelangelo.

Medici Riccardi Palace was their first residence in town and their business headquarters in the 1400s. Here is where Lorenzo the Magnificent was born and where Michelangelo was invited to stay with his family for a few months. Inside you will admire the famous Chapel of the Magi, featuring the detailed Benozzo Gozzoli’s fresco with faithful Medici’s portraits. Then, you will reach the parish church of San Lorenzo, which was commissioned to Brunelleschi by Cosimo il Vecchio de’ Medici in  the early 1400s. You will visit the two magnificent Medici’s Chapels. The Chapel of the Princes with its baroque semiprecious stone wall decoration and the New Sacristy by Michelangelo featuring a very unique architecture and statues in the original setting. Next you will visit the interior of Palazzo Vecchio, today’s City Hall of Florence. The Salone dei Cinquecento, still used for official  receptions, is the largest room in town featuring historical scenes on its wall and ceiling celebrating the Medici’s power. Da Vinci and Michelangelo were involved in its decoration.

This tour is available at 9am or 2pm on Monday, Friday and Saturday. This tour is available only in the morning on Thursday. Please request your preferred time slot at the time of booking.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. If you are staying at a centrally located hotel, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Otherwise, a meeting point will be arranged.

A great introduction to the artistic treasures of the Vatican. From the Vatican Museums to Michelangelo's ground-breaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, you will see how the Popes used art and culture to spread their message. Discover the history, the mystery and the masterpieces of Vatican City, a powerful town-state set in the center of Rome and be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, where the brilliance of human creativity and devotion converge. As there is no talking allowed in the Sistine Chapel your guide will prepare you here for the many fascinating details you otherwise might miss on your own. To reach the Chapel, your guide will lead you along the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Candelabra and through the Raphael Rooms. 

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

A great introduction to the artistic treasures of the Vatican. From the Vatican Museums to Michelangelo's ground-breaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, you will see how the Popes used art and culture to spread their message. Discover the history, the mystery and the masterpieces of Vatican City, a powerful town-state set in the center of Rome and be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, where the brilliance of human creativity and devotion converge. As there is no talking allowed in the Sistine Chapel your guide will prepare you here for the many fascinating details you otherwise might miss on your own. To reach the Chapel, your guide will lead you along the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Candelabra and through the Raphael Rooms. 

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

A great introduction to the artistic treasures of the Vatican. From the Vatican Museums to Michelangelo's ground-breaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, you will see how the Popes used art and culture to spread their message. Discover the history, the mystery and the masterpieces of Vatican City, a powerful town-state set in the center of Rome and be ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, where the brilliance of human creativity and devotion converge. As there is no talking allowed in the Sistine Chapel your guide will prepare you here for the many fascinating details you otherwise might miss on your own. To reach the Chapel, your guide will lead you along the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Candelabra and through the Raphael Rooms. 

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Embark on a journey to Umbria to discover the beautiful medieval town of Orvieto and the mystic and sacred town of Assisi.

Perched on a volcanic plateau, Orvieto showcases a captivating blend of history, art, and natural beauty. The town is crowned by the magnificent Orvieto Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Here, you will have some free time to walk around on your own.

Then continue onto Assisi, world-renowned as the home of Saint Francis. An English-speaking guide will lead you through the narrow streets of this medieval town and tell you about its charming history. Inside the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi, you will admire Giotto’s frescos and discover why it is a fundamental pilgrimage site. Next, you will visit the Basilica of Santa Chiara, dedicated to Saint Clare of Assisi, a follower of Saint Francis. After some free time to stroll around, the tour continues with a visit to Santa Maria degli Angeli Church, the birthplace of the Franciscan Order.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Take an intimate small group tour through Tuscany and discover the quintessence of Tuscan wines: the world-renowned Supertuscans.

A Supertuscan wine is the utmost expression of quality and winemaking skills of a wine producer and often his signature wine. A precious wine that sometimes is difficult to find outside the latest vintage - or even to get a taste of.

You will visit three wineries amidst the rolling hills of the Chianti wine region, well-known for their Supertuscan wines and learn about their different methods of wine production and distinct ways to combine modern techniques with ancient gestures. Your sommeliers will show you how to distinguish between the acidity and the aromas, the scents and the flavors of different grapes grown in the Tuscan region, as you taste various wines at the three wineries.

The tour also includes a typical Tuscan lunch.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Escape the crowds of Venice and explore Murano, a small island world-famous for its glass, and Burano, famous for its centuries old tradition of lace-making and for its houses huddled tightly together and each painted a different color. This tour also includes live demonstrations in the art of glassblowing and lace-making led by master artisans.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Enjoy a tour of the most famous sites in Venice: the Doge’s Palace and St. Mark’s Basilica. Once home to the Duke of Venice and the city’s courts, the Doge's Palace features the very best and the very worst of Venice’s history – from vast paintings by Tintoretto and Veronese to the wooden slot where accusations of treason were slipped to the fearsome Secret Police.

Next you will admire the heart of Venice – St. Mark’s Square, once pronounced the “finest drawing room in all of Europe” by Napoleon. Marvel at the diversity of Venetian culture, where eastern architecture and western design have blended to create a structure with an onion dome, before following your guide through the beautiful frescoes inside the basilica.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Cover all the Florence's highlights on this fun walking tour in just 2 hours.

Starting off from the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge, the Uffizi Courtyard, the sculptures at Piazza Signoria and the gold doors of the Baptistery, you will then visit the Duomo Square, where the magnificent Florence Cathedral is, known as Il Duomo. The entrance to the Duomo is free and you can visit independently if you wish, as the guide provided you with a full explanation of its inside and outside features. You’ll also see some less-visited gems of the city, such as the leather market where your guide will explain why Florence is so famous for its leather work, and quieter streets and piazzas of the city with incredible stories to tell.

For most visitors to Florence, visiting Michelangelo’s ‘David’ is a must-see. With a Skip the Line Access and a pre-reserved entry time at the Accademia Gallery, you will quickly enter the museum and admire the incredible statue of David with the help of an expert, English-speaking guide on hand.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Start the day on a private air-conditioned coach with a trip over the border into Switzerland where you will discover the incredible lake town of Lugano and even have the opportunity to take home some Swiss Chocolate! Then, continue onto Bellagio, known as “the pearl of Lake Como,” where you will have time to leisurely enjoy the town at your own pace and find winding medieval alleys, authentic shops, as well as lots of options for lunch. End your tour with a boat trip on Lake Como. You will be treated to postcard-worthy views of villages nestled on the coasts while you’re expert English-speaking guide points out the famous villas where Star Wars and James Bond movies have been filmed.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

See the best of Milan, from the iconic Duomo and the impressive Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a 19th century glass vaulted arcade, to the most famous shopping and dining areas of the city in the Brera District and the Castello Sforzesco, an imposing medieval castle and fortress. Plus get an intimate viewing of da Vinci's Last Supper.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Experience the Best of Tuscany in a Day: Visit Montepulciano, Pienza, and a Renowned Vineyard for a 3-Course Lunch & Wine Tasting. Enjoy the simplicity of Tuscan life with a local guide, see the Renaissance Church of St. Biagio, savor lunch with locally sourced products at a vineyard famous for Brunello di Montalcino, and end your day in Pienza for Pecorino cheese and stunning views.

Your first stop is the hilltop town of Montepulciano, for a walking tour with a local guide. You’ll discover narrow streets, theatrical clock towers and ancient wine cellars in this car-free town. Then, you'll have lunch with your group surrounded by vineyards. You’ll discover why Tuscany is Italy’s most renowned wine region as you enjoy a traditional 3-course lunch, with a local wine pairing including the world-famous Brunello di Montalcino wines.

The last stop is in Pienza, a World Heritage Site conceived by Pope Pius II with its two Renaissance palaces and the beautiful Duomo. Take some time to walk around the town on your own before heading back to Rome.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Explore the Sacred Christian Catacombs and discover the lesser known history of Rome.

Peel back the layers of history as you discover imperial and early Christian Rome via the Eternal city’s underground burial chambers, its long winding catacombs and its crypts. Begin your journey with Skip the Line Entrance to the Christian Catacombs, where generations of early Christians tunneled under the city to bury their dead in tombs carved out of the bedrock itself. Then, visit the Capuchin Crypt, an eerie monument to death, with the remains of over 4,000 monks decorating the walls. Here your expert English-speaking guide will draw your attention to many interesting details and explain to you the reasons behind such an unusual practice.

Finish the tour with a visit to the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere. Uncover the hidden stories and architectural wonders of this site, that make it the perfect complement to your journey into Rome’s underground.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

A must see for those who enjoy visiting Ancient Roman ruins and some experts are calling this site "The Better Pompeii" - Come see why! Ancient Ostia is reachable by local train from Rome and the buildings and sites are incredibly well preserved, better than favorites in the Roman Forum, Imperial Forum and Pompeii.

Highlights include, but are not limited to: Baths of Neptune, the main street Decumanus Maximus, Ostia's Amphitheater, Forum of the Corporations, the Collegiate Temple, the laundry shop and public baths.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Pompeii has inspired countless documentaries, movies and books and is an UNESCO World Heritage site. In the morning, you will take an air-conditioned bus from Rome to Pompeii (approx. 2.5 hrs). Sitting in the shadow of Vesuvius, the now ruined city of Pompeii was once a sprawling metropolis of shops and residences, restaurants, gyms and brothels. Entering with a Skip the Line, pre-booked access you’ll walk Pompeii’s main streets just as the ancient Romans did. The stones are still worn with tracks from the drawn carriages that tread them nearly 2000 years ago! You’ll visit the forum, the center of Pompeii’s political and social life, as well as view the startling plaster death casts of the victims of the catastrophic eruption that destroyed the city – freezing forever in time a moment that would live on in history.

After a break for a pizza lunch at a local restaurant, you will reach Mt Vesuvius and take in the incredible views of Naples. Infamous for the destruction of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79AD, Vesuvius has erupted many times since – and is today regarded as one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world due to the 3,000,000 people living directly in its path of destruction. Lava flows have scarred the sides of the volcano, and are visible on the winding road up to the top. From the parking area, it is a 20 minute upward hike to the crater through soft volcanic ash and pumice for which comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The view from the top is well worth the while. Once the tour is over, you will take the bus back to Rome, to the tour's original meeting point.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Make the most of your time and enjoy three of the most famous and beautiful sites in Italy in a single day trip from Rome. In a comfortable, air-conditioned coach you will be led by an enthusiastic tour guide to discover the wonders of Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Positano.

Enjoy Skip-the-Line entry to Pompeii where an expert, English speaking, local guide will bring to life the ancient city as you wander the streets that have been frozen in time since the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius. Then, discover the beauty of the Amalfi Coast as you leisurely drive down to one of the most beautiful seaside villages in Italy, Positano. Here you will have free time to explore the meandering streets lined with artisanal local shops or you may just sit back and enjoy the incredible view while sipping the local specialty, limoncello (tasting not included)!

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

A great introduction to the artistic treasures of the Vatican in an enjoyable and hassle-free manner. From the enormous Vatican Museums to Michelangelo's ground-breaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel, you will see how the Popes used art and culture to spread their message.

Your guide will take you out to the Vatican Gardens balcony for your first glimpse of the dome of St. Peters Basilica before strolling through the ancient statues and modern sculptures of the Pinecone Courtyard. As there is no talking allowed in the Sistine Chapel your guide will prepare you here for the many fascinating details you otherwise might miss on your own. To reach the Chapel, your guide will lead you along the Hall of Maps, the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Candelabra and through the Raphael Rooms.  These works of art will come to life as you follow your guide’s commentary on your dedicated headsets. At the Sistine Chapel, take some time to pick out the rich details on the walls and ceilings – from Michelangelo’s boneless self-portrait to the shields representing violent bible stories.

Then, you will enter St. Peter’s Basilica and your guide will provide an overview of this magnificent church. Here, you will see Michelangelo’s ‘Pietá’ which portrayed Mary as being as an eternal young mother. Spend some quiet time in this vast place of worship beneath the tallest dome in the world. When you finish, you are free to remain inside St. Peter’s Basilica to experience more of this amazing church at your leisure or return outside to St. Peter’s Square to admire Bernini’s clever optical illusion and the basilica’s heavenly façade.

On Wednesdays, access to St. Peter’s Basilica & Square may be closed at the time of the morning tour due to the Papal Audience.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Embark on a journey through history, where you'll step back in time to an era when royalty savored the same delectable treats still cherished by locals today. Discover the renowned dishes that define Naples, from the authentic Margherita pizza to the fresh, delectable sfogliatelle found in neighborhood cafes.

Relish the iconic Neapolitan pizza right in its place of origin, Naples. Sample local culinary treasures like deep-fried pasta and the luscious Caprese Salad featuring creamy buffalo mozzarella. Join our local guide as you explore the once-infamous Spanish Quarters, adorned with captivating street art. Treat yourself to traditional pastries such as the flaky sfogliatella, paired perfectly with a cappuccino or an espresso. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Naples and gain insights into the intricate history that has given rise to this diverse and sumptuous cuisine.

Please note: itinerary & tastings subject to change due to seasonal availability, individual closings or local holidays.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Discover the hidden treasures and abundant culinary heritage of Florence, including its historic Wine Windows and the finest Tuscan specialties.

Treat yourself to a delectable, freshly prepared pasta dish, masterfully crafted by a local chef, as well as the traditional Tuscan zero-waste soup, and an array of other local delicacies. All the while, immerse yourself in Florence's vibrant nightlife, savoring its rich culture and flavors. Don't miss the chance to explore a centuries-old wine cellar and sample innovative Super Tuscan wines, with a tasting featuring five remarkable Tuscan wine selections, from Chianti Classico to Super Tuscans.

Please note: itinerary & tastings subject to change due to seasonality, day of the week, departure time or local holidays. Regardless, your experience will be unforgettable! 

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Embark on a leisurely 3-hour walking tour as you stroll through the historic streets of the Oltrarno neighborhood in Florence. Uncover the essence of traditional Tuscan cuisine, explore street food treasures, and savor wine from a historic fiaschetteria. Make a stop at a local deli to relish Tuscan cheese and expertly cured meats, treat your taste buds to artisanal gelato, and get acquainted with the families that have been serving locals for generations. Enjoy a serene and authentic experience, far removed from the bustling crowds of the Duomo area!

Please note: itinerary & tastings subject to change due to seasonality, day of the week, departure time or local holidays. Regardless, your experience will be unforgettable! 

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

This Florence Market Food Tour will take you on a culinary journey at the San Lorenzo Market, the real heart of Tuscan food traditions. Here you’ll enjoy tasty local cheeses, mouthwatering cured meats, fresh olive oil, delicious panini, aged balsamic vinegar and much more. Once you’ve eaten our way through the market, you’ll pop over to one of Florence’s oldest wine shops for a private wine tasting and food pairing. End the tour just like a true Italian would finish their meal: with sweetness! After learning how to enjoy espresso and a digestif like an Italian, savor an authentic gelato and learn how to differentiate it from the imitations! 

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Be among the first to see Pope Leo XIV on a guided Papal Audience Service!

On this tour you will be provided with reserved tickets (which are free of cost and will get you inside early to ensure better seats) and headsets. You will be guided to your seats in St. Peter’s Square or the Sala of Paul VI by an expert, English-speaking guide.

Once seated, your tour guide will explain the origin of the Papacy from the first Christians through Constantine’s era and up to the current wonder of the Holy See. You will discover the history of St. Peter’s Square created by Bernini in the 17th century as you become familiar with the smallest sovereign state in the world.

Your guide will also provide a detailed explanation of the events of the Papal Audience and prepare you for your gathering with Pope Leo XIV.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Under the guidance of your fun and friendly Italian host, immerse yourself in the Italian life to discover the gastronomic delights of Rome.

The day begins with a walking tour of the chef's favorite food shops leading to the famous Rome outdoor food market - Campo de' Fiori.

Then go to the chef's private apartment where you’ll learn Italian cooking techniques and the skills to cook delicious Italian dishes with a focus on making fresh pasta dishes. The course will teach you the techniques needed to cook different pasta dishes as well as one meat dish (vegetarians can be catered for) that you will be able to use time after time at home.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Embark on a culinary journey in the enchanting medieval town of Mazzano Romano, a mere 40-50 minutes from Rome's bustling city center.

Your day commences with a scenic drive to Mazzano Romano, a medieval village nestled in a serene and picturesque landscape. This charming village offers a tranquil escape from the vibrant hustle and bustle of Rome's urban life, making it a favored retreat for local families.

Upon arrival in Mazzano, your expert chef will guide you on a leisurely walking tour through the village and its market offering you a glimpse into local life. Following the village exploration, you'll return to the cooking school for a hands-on culinary lesson. Subsequently, you'll relish the delicious meal you've prepared, complemented by regional wines. With your newfound culinary skills and knowledge, you'll be chauffeured back to the heart of Rome, ensuring that the memories of this experience endure long after your journey has concluded.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Under the guidance of your fun and friendly Italian host, immerse yourself in the Italian life to discover the gastronomic delights of Rome.

The day begins with a walking tour of the chef's favorite food shops leading to the famous Rome outdoor food market - Campo de' Fiori.

Then go to the chef's private apartment where you’ll learn Italian cooking techniques and the skills to cook delicious Italian dishes with a focus on making fresh pasta dishes. The course will teach you the techniques needed to cook different pasta dishes as well as one meat dish (vegetarians can be catered for) that you will be able to use time after time at home.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Enjoy this fun and kid-friendly class and learn the secrets of Italian Gelato during this hands-on cooking class at a beautiful loft-style cooking school in Verona’s historical center.  With an experienced Italian chef by your side, you will learn the secrets on how to make ice cream and fresh fruit sorbet from scratch.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Discover the authentic soul of Venice with a local guide, unlocking hidden gems and panoramic terraces inaccessible to most.

Explore the lively Sestiere San Polo, entering private Venetian palaces for a unique view. Your host will unveil the city's secret side, leading you through enchanting views over the lagoon, canals, and bridges. Experience the genuine Venice, away from crowds, in a small group. From rooftop vistas to Rialto market and the ancient Red Light District, immerse yourself in the city's rich history. Picture Casanova's footsteps and stroll through the smallest "calle" before indulging in a traditional Aperitivo with a Grand Canal panorama. Lose track of time in Venice's true beauty and access incredible places with a local host for an unforgettable experience.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Embark on a captivating 2-hour journey through the historical and artistic wonders of Doge's Palace, once the epicenter of political power in Venice. This magnificent building, adorned by renowned Italian artists of the 1500s, now stands as a museum preserving masterpieces by Tintoretto, Tiziano, and Veronese.

Join your local guide to unravel the secrets of Venice's governance, explore the intriguing prison quarters and the symbolic crossing of the Bridge of Sighs, and immerse yourself in the legends surrounding this iconic site. The tour offers an insider's perspective on the city's political history and artistic heritage.

Meeting point will be at a central location. Details will be provided in final documents.

Explore Rome's enchanting beauty aboard a golf cart, guided by a knowledgeable local. Venture through the city's vibrant alleys to uncover charming squares, secret fountains, and renowned Baroque churches adorned with masterpieces from Italy's finest artists.

With the golf cart, you'll effortlessly navigate the historical center, taking in the sights and sounds up close while reveling in the refreshing breeze. Your English-speaking guide will share insights about Rome's iconic landmarks like the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and the Spanish Steps. Moreover, your guide will unveil lesser-known, magical corners of Rome.

Places covered during this tour: Temple of Hadrian, Trevi Fountain, Piazza Venezia, Spanish Steps, Jewish Ghetto, Turtle Fountain, Column of Trajan, St. Ignazio church, Campo de Fiori, Piazza Navona, Piazza del Popolo, Pincian Hill, Pantheon.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. If you are staying at a centrally located hotel, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Otherwise, a meeting point will be arranged.

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of ancient Rome with this comprehensive tour, unveiling iconic landmarks and hidden gems that define the city's rich history and grandeur. Drive by the monumental Colosseum, witness the vast expanse of the Circus Maximus, and marvel at the Arch of Constantine. Ascend the Aventine Hill for breathtaking views from Michelangelo's Campidoglio Square and peer into the legendary Mouth of Truth. Continue your exploration to the historic Capitol Hill, discover the enchanting secret of the Knights of Malta Keyhole, and admire the spectacular view of the Roman Forum from a vantage point on the Palatine Hill.

This tour promises an immersive experience, offering much more than the mentioned landmarks, as you delve into the layers of Rome's captivating history and uncover hidden treasures that await your discovery.

Places covered during this tour: Colosseum (outside only), Circus Maximus, Arch of Constantine, Aventine Hill, Michelangelo’s Campidoglio square, Mouth of Truth, Capitol Hill, Knights of Malta keyhole, Emperor Trajan forum and Column, Spectacular View of the Roman forum, Great Palace on the Palatine hill, Arch of Janus, Vestal Temple, Panoramic view of Rome at the orange tree garden.

Exact time will be provided in final documents. If you are staying at a centrally located hotel, your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby. Otherwise, a meeting point will be arranged.