Nice, Cinque Terre & the Flavors of Tuscany
Seaside cities and fairytale towns
Immerse yourself in medieval wonder and coastal charm on this partially guided journey from Nice to Rome. Explore Tuscany's picturesque countryside, lounge on the beaches of Cinque Terre and Nice, and sightsee through Florence, Siena, Lucca, Pisa, San Gimignano, Rome, and more. With tours, tastings, and transportation included, this fun-filled vacation is an adventure without the stress of navigating on your own.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Nice (NCE), out of Rome (FCO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in Nice at the Hotel Splendid & Spa or the Hotel Ellington
- 5 night escorted tour including the following:
- 1 night in La Spezia at the CDH Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Florence at the Residence Palazzo Ricasoli or similar
- 2 nights in Chianciano Terme (Tuscany) at the Grand Hotel Admiral Palace or similar
- Transportation by private modern 16 seater mini-coach
- Services of a professional, English-speaking diver/guide on days 3 through 8
- 2 nights in Rome at the Hotel Donna Laura Palace or similar
- Breakfast daily
Great Ways to Explore
-
Travel back in time as you visit the medieval cities of Lucca, Siena, and San Gimignano.
- Sip and sample your way through an organic cheese farm in rural Tuscany.
-
Take an iconic photo in-front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
-
Explore the colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre at your own pace.
-
Enjoy free time in Nice, Florence, and Rome!
This is a partially escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
Whether you're looking for breathtaking beaches, vast countryside, cute villages, or iconic cities, this incredible vacation has it all. Start your adventure in one of the French Riviera's most sought-after resort cities: Nice. Wander through the charming old town, blend in like a local, and gaze out turquoise water from sandy beaches. After 2 unforgettable nights in Nice, you will be whisked away by a knowledgeable tour guide who will introduce you to the beauty of Cinque Terre and Tuscany.
After a few scenic stops, you will arrive in La Spezia, a lovely port city at the base of the Cinque Terre. Hop on the Cinque Terre shuttle train and explore the five colorful fishing villages at your own pace! Separated by olive groves and vineyards, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso al Mare are all unique in their own ways. Take stunning pictures and enjoy a once in a lifetime sunset.
Say "see ya" to La Spezia and venture to some of Tuscany's most iconic hot-spots! Take an obligatory photo in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, get lost in the old-world beauty of Lucca, and gaze out at miles of photo-worthy countryside between stops. Once you arrive in Florence, enjoy two nights of exploring on your own! You may want to climb the Duomo, walk over the Ponte Vecchio, or relax in Boboli Gardens. While in the "Birthplace of the Renaissance," you may also want to visit famous art museums, like the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell'Accademia!
Following a fantastic stay in Florence, your guide will show off more of Tuscany's gems. Travel back in time as you stroll through the stone walls of San Gimignano, indulge in a delicious lunch in Siena, then relax at your next accommodation in Chianciano Terme. Immerse yourself in the beauty of rural Tuscany and enjoy wine tastings, as well as a visit to a local cheese farm!
Last, but certainly not least, Rome! On day 8, you will say goodbye to your tour guide in Rome. Settle into your final accommodation, then explore the city however you'd like! Visit the Colosseum, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and feel your eyes widen as you approach Vatican City. In the "Eternal City," the options are endless!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare into Nice (NCE), out of Rome (FCO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- 2 nights in Nice at the Hotel Splendid & Spa or the Hotel Ellington
- 5 night escorted tour including the following:
- 1 night in La Spezia at the CDH Hotel or similar
- 2 nights in Florence at the Residence Palazzo Ricasoli or similar
- 2 nights in Chianciano Terme (Tuscany) at the Grand Hotel Admiral Palace or similar
- Transportation by private modern 16 seater mini-coach
- Services of a professional, English-speaking diver/guide on days 3 through 8
- 2 nights in Rome at the Hotel Donna Laura Palace or similar
- Breakfast daily
-
Travel back in time as you visit the medieval cities of Lucca, Siena, and San Gimignano.
- Sip and sample your way through an organic cheese farm in rural Tuscany.
-
Take an iconic photo in-front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa!
-
Explore the colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre at your own pace.
-
Enjoy free time in Nice, Florence, and Rome!
This is a partially escorted tour. It’s perfect if you prefer not to do your own driving and want to see as many sights as you can during your vacation.
Whether you're looking for breathtaking beaches, vast countryside, cute villages, or iconic cities, this incredible vacation has it all. Start your adventure in one of the French Riviera's most sought-after resort cities: Nice. Wander through the charming old town, blend in like a local, and gaze out turquoise water from sandy beaches. After 2 unforgettable nights in Nice, you will be whisked away by a knowledgeable tour guide who will introduce you to the beauty of Cinque Terre and Tuscany.
After a few scenic stops, you will arrive in La Spezia, a lovely port city at the base of the Cinque Terre. Hop on the Cinque Terre shuttle train and explore the five colorful fishing villages at your own pace! Separated by olive groves and vineyards, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, Riomaggiore, and Monterosso al Mare are all unique in their own ways. Take stunning pictures and enjoy a once in a lifetime sunset.
Say "see ya" to La Spezia and venture to some of Tuscany's most iconic hot-spots! Take an obligatory photo in front of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, get lost in the old-world beauty of Lucca, and gaze out at miles of photo-worthy countryside between stops. Once you arrive in Florence, enjoy two nights of exploring on your own! You may want to climb the Duomo, walk over the Ponte Vecchio, or relax in Boboli Gardens. While in the "Birthplace of the Renaissance," you may also want to visit famous art museums, like the Uffizi Gallery and the Galleria dell'Accademia!
Following a fantastic stay in Florence, your guide will show off more of Tuscany's gems. Travel back in time as you stroll through the stone walls of San Gimignano, indulge in a delicious lunch in Siena, then relax at your next accommodation in Chianciano Terme. Immerse yourself in the beauty of rural Tuscany and enjoy wine tastings, as well as a visit to a local cheese farm!
Last, but certainly not least, Rome! On day 8, you will say goodbye to your tour guide in Rome. Settle into your final accommodation, then explore the city however you'd like! Visit the Colosseum, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and feel your eyes widen as you approach Vatican City. In the "Eternal City," the options are endless!
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to Nice!
There's nowhere like Nice! Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your first luxurious accommodation.Â
Once you settle in, begin exploring this beautiful city on the French Riviera. Treat yourself to a celebratory first-night dinner at a seaside restaurant!Â
Transfer to Nice hotel
The Splendid Hotel & Spa, located right in Nice's city center, is walking distance to a variety of bars, restaurants, shops, and beaches. It offers 128 rooms all equipped to meet your basic travel needs, including free WiFi, air-conditioning, and a minibar. The hotel boasts a luxurious spa with a sauna, steam room, swimming pool, and much more. The rooftop bar, L’EssenCiel, offers incredible views of the city and the sea. Dine on their tapas menu and sip on a gourmet cocktail while soaking up the sun. Guests staying at the Splendid Hotel & Spa receive a discount at the private "Le Sporting" beach, located 400 meters away.Â
Inspired by Duke Ellington and giving off a 1950s jazz vibe, the Hotel Ellington has recently been renovated and now features a 1920s style lounge, marble fireplace, and a black & white photo gallery of famous performers. Sitting in the excellent location of the center of Nice, the hotel is within walking distance of the beach, the Promenade des Anglais, the place Massena, and Promenade du Pallion Park.
Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, and the rooms offer contemporary decour, flatscreen TVs, an electric kettle, a safety deposit bos, a minibar, a desk, and a private bathroom with a bath. free toiletries, and a hairdryer. Breakfast is served up buffet style every morning and can be taken out on the terrace upon request, where you can look out over Nice's Old Town.
Day 2. Nice
Recharge with a delicious breakfast, then enjoy a day at leisure in the spectacular city of Nice. Stroll through the Place Massena, get lost in the Vieille Ville (Old Town), then take amazing photos from the Promenade des Anglais and Castle Hill.
In the mood for some R&R? Lounge on one of Nice's famous beaches!
Day 3. Nice - La Spezia (Begin escorted tour)
Enjoy one last morning in France and get ready to embark on your escorted tour through Italy! Say au revior to Nice and head east along the French Riviera toward the Italian border. Along the way, you'll stop in the charming seaside town of Porto Maurizio before stopping again for lunch in Recco. Known for its focaccia formaggio, Recco is the gastronomic capital of the area, so you'll want to try as many local specialties as possible.
In the afternoon, you'll arrive in La Spezia - the gateway city to the Cinque Terre! Check in to your hotel, then get ready to explore the five famous colorful gems of the Ligurian Coast: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. Hop on the Cinque Terre shuttle train and decide which town you'd like to visit first! Surrounded by breathtaking beaches, olive groves, and vineyards, these old-world fishing villages are one of a kind.
After a magical afternoon, you'll hop back on the train to La Spezia for a relaxing night.Â
A Tip For Your Trip: You will be responsible for reaching the meeting point of the escorted tour on your own
Check-in - CDH Hotel La Spezia
Resting comfortably in the shopping district and only a 10 minute walk away from La Spezia Centrale Station, the CDH Hotel La Spezia offers a respite from the bustling city. Rooms boast air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV, a safe, a private bathroom, and a hairdryer.Â
Full buffet breakfasts are offered daily, staff are available for help about the local area, and trains nearby are able to spirit you away to major cities like Genoa, Pisa, and Parma.Â
Day 4. La Spezia - Pisa - Lucca - Florence
Buongiorno! After a wonderful breakfast in La Spezia, you'll be off to Pisa. Explore the city, grab lunch, and - of course - take an iconic photo in-front of the Leaning Tower! You'll also find yourself marveling at the other architectural wonders in the Campo dei Miracoli.Â
Next, explore Lucca, the beloved "city of a hundred churches." Known for its Renaissance walls and pretty piazzas, walking through Lucca feels like walking through a postcard.
After an unforgettable day of Tuscan highlights, you'll arrive at the one and only "birthplace of the Renaissance" - Florence. Settle in to your next hotel and spend the evening exploring! Treat yourself to dinner at a lovely restaurant and try Bistecca Alla Fiorentina!
Check-in - Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli
The Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli combines historic charm with modern amenities. This stately 16th century palace sits on the historic Via San Gallo and once belonged to the famous Ricasoli family. Florence's best attractions are all within walking distance, from the Duomo to the Exposition Center (Palazzo Congressi and Fortezza da Basso) to the Accademia Gallery. Dine al fresco at one of the many Florentine trattorias and revel in the impressive architecture dotting the city.Â
This spacious hotel features 130 rooms equipped with free WI-FI, separate living areas and air conditioning, plus a free 120-car parking garage that can be easily reached from the city center. Savor the pleasing Tuscan air from the panoramic solarium and terrace while sipping a glass of Chianti. Before heading out for a day of sightseeing, enjoy the many works of art and sculpture from the hotel's private collection.
Day 5. Florence
After breakfast, enjoy a free day in Florence. Discover amazing architecture, artistic masterpieces, and culinary greatness around every corner! Looking for amazing views? Climb to the top of the Duomo, or take a hike up Piazzale Michelangelo. Want to see famous works of art? Check out the Uffizi Gallery and/or the Galleria dell'Accademia - where Michelangelo's renowned David statue stands. You may also want to visit the legendary Palazzo Pitti or find peace in Boboli Gardens.Â
No matter what you do, be sure to spend some time strolling through Florence's storybook streets and take a walk over the Ponte Vecchio at sunset!Â
Day 6. Florence - San Gimignano - Siena - Chianciano Terme
Wave goodbye to Florence - you've got much more to see! After breakfast, your guide will whisk you through the medieval hill-towns of Tuscany. Drive along winding country roads lined with Cypress trees, vineyards, and terracotta homes.Â
Your first stop will be San Gimignano, known for its impressive skyline of 14 medieval towers! This well-preserved fortified old center will take you centuries back in time. Wander through spectacular stone streets and treat yourself to gelato from one of the award-winning shops in town!
Next, you'll venture south to Siena. Known for its medieval brick buildings and fan-shaped central square, Piazza del Campo (yes, where the Palio horse race takes place), Siena is a highlight for every traveler who visits Tuscany. This city is also known for panforte and other yummy pastries, so make sure to bring your sweet tooth to Siena!Â
After a lovely lunch on the Piazza, you'll journey through breathtaking hills to Chianciano Terme in rural Tuscany - your home for the next two nights!Â
Check-in - Grand Hotel Admiral Palace
Surrounded by the stunning landscape of Val d'Orcia, this contemporary hotel offers comfortable rooms, spa amenities, onsite dining, and much more. Check-in with the friendly 24-hour reception team and take in the hotel's sleek decor. Open the door to your room and find free WiFi, lots of natural light, plush bedding, flat-screen TV, toiletries, and more.
Unpack your swimsuit and make a splash in the swimming pool, steam all your stresses away in the sauna, or keep up your workout routine in the fitness center. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to an unforgettable meal at the elegant Zafferano Restaurant!
Day 7. Chianciano Terme
Get ready for wine, cheese, and all things Tuscany! Today, your guide will take you through the curvy backroads of Val d'Orcia, a dreamy Tuscan region that happens to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Journey through rolling green hills to Bagno Vignoni, an ancient spa. Bring your swimsuit if you'd like to go for a dip in the hot springs!
After your relaxing therapeutic bath, you'll sip some local vino at a nearby winery. Visit historic wine cellars and discover the secrets of aging and producing wine!Â
Next, it's time to visit the medieval walled city of Montalcino. Surrounded by scenic vineyards, this is a perfect place for an unforgettable lunch! In the afternoon, your adventure takes you to Pienza, another UNESCO site. Known as the "Ideal City," Pienza is filled with piazzas, churches, and palaces to explore.Â
What better way to end your day than with a visit to an organic cheese farm? Enjoy a guided tour and learn about cheese production in Tuscany! Get ready to sip wine and sample scrumptious cheeses as you go.Â
Day 8. Chianciano Terme - Rome (Complete escorted tour)
Get one last look at Chianciano Terme as you travel south to Sorano in the Maremma region. Carved out of rock and built on a fortress, this hilltop city feels like a time capsule! Meander through the maze of small streets and marvel at the medieval castle towering over the city. From Sorano, you'll continue to another hilltop city, Pitigliano. Here, you'll enjoy lunch and explore cobblestone streets straight out of a fairytale!
This afternoon, journey off the beaten path to Bolsena Lake, the largest volcanic lake in Italy! Stop for a jaw-dropping photo-op, then continue along the edge of the lake to Capodimonte. Relax on the beach, roam the quaint town, and admire the castle. After a few more scenic stops, your guide will bring you to the gates of Rome!
Say ciao to your guide and travel companions; it's time to explore Rome on your own! Settle into your hotel, then begin sightseeing through the Eternal City. Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at a Roman trattoria, then make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, illuminated against the dark night sky!Â
Feel like royalty at Donna Laura Palace, ideally located in Rome's Prati district and just a few minutes away from Vatican City, Tiber River and the Spanish Steps. Easily walk to Piazza del Popolo, Via Margutta with its art galleries, and the gorgeous Trevi Fountain.Â
This charming and recently renovated boutique hotel provides a warm and hospitable atmosphere with wonderful views over the Tiber River. Each of the 64 finely furnished guest rooms feature free Wi-Fi, minibar, electronic safe and more. Sit down to a drink at the comfortable lobby bar and enjoy a Meditteranean meal at Bistrot restaurant. Additional amenities include an on-site wellness area with small fitness center, Turkish bath and Jacuzzi, and a summer roof garden with stunning views of the dome of St. Peter’s.Â
This 4-star boutique hotel offers guests an ideal location along with luxurious accommodations and services. Escape the bustling city life into one of the tranquil and relaxing guest rooms. There is a roof garden with incredible panoramic views of Rome and in the mornings there is a delicious buffet breakfast available here!
Unwind in elegance in the lovely Hotel Empire Rome. Feel like old royalty as you wander through the Venetian-styled building in the heart of Rome, which offer modern conveniences like an on-site gym, a classy bar and elegant restaurant. Air conditioning and Wi-Fi can be found throughout the classically styled hotel, as well as meeting rooms and a business center.Â
Rooms offer carpeted floors, a reading area, cherry wood furniture, a private bathroom, and a bathtub or shower. The hotel is just a 5 minute walk away from Via Veneto, and within walking distance of the Repubblica Metro Station.
Day 9. Rome
Check all the items off of your Roman bucket-list! Travel back in time at the Colosseum and Roman Forum, relax with an aperitivo in Piazza Navona, feel your eyes widen at the Pantheon, and visit St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. With so much to see and do, Rome will sweep you off your feet.Â
Day 10. Depart Italy
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and enjoy a convenient transfer to the airport. Spend your flight home replaying wonderful memories and dreaming about your next adventure!Â