A SUMMER DREAM

From ancient Roman celebrities to contemporary Hollywood stars, no one has been able to resist the allure of Lake Como. A timeless tourist destination, after 2,000 years this heavenly spot keeps luring prominent visitors to its shores with a one-of-a-kind combination of architectural marvels, artistic treasures and fabulous landscapes. Set at the foot of the Rhaetian Alps, Lake Como is the third largest Italian lake, the deepest and unarguably the most spectacular. Its shoreline is studded with a succession of charming sights: dark green forested slopes rising against a backdrop of majestic snow-covered peaks, lush terraced gardens cascading right down to the waters, pretty towns sprinkled with pastel-hued buildings, lakeshore restaurants shaded by blooming pergolas. Soak up the beauties of Lake Como on this full-day tour. In the morning you will explore a historic villa surrounded by splendid botanical gardens. In the afternoon you will enjoy a stroll around the two lakeside towns of Bellagio and Varenna.

After breakfast your private guide will meet you at your hotel and accompany you to Villa Carlotta. Built between 1690 and 1743 for the pleasure-seeking marquis Giorgio Clerici, the villa now houses an exquisite museum. Sculpted masterpieces by Antonio Canova and Bertel Thorvaldsen are on display together with a fine collection of paintings, cameos, furniture and decorative pieces from the mid-19th century. The eight-hectare neighbouring garden is a triumph of colour and variety and provides a magnificent backdrop to the palazzo. Five hundred different botanical species, including azaleas, rhododendrons, palms, tropical plants and aromatic herbs flourish in this romantic oasis, rated among Italy’s most beautiful gardens by prestigious local and international magazines.

After visiting the villa and grounds hop aboard a taxi boat and sail to nearby Bellagio to enjoy some free time for lunch followed by a pleasant walk through town to discover its major landmarks.

The final stop on your tour will bring you to the beguiling town of Varenna. You will weave your way up steep stone stairways lined with shops, cosy cafes and flowering balconies, step inside the 14th century Church of San Giorgio to see its precious frescoes, and take in stunning views by the waterfront promenade, romantically named passeggiata degli innamorati – lover’s walk.

After the tour take a taxi boat back to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast meet your private driver at your accommodation and relax on the ride to Como. Here your guide will be waiting ready to lead you on a trail through Como’s elegant streets, across charming piazzas, inside splendid churches, while filling you in on the history of this lakeside town. From its early days as an ancient Roman colony, through its rise in the Renaissance as a prosperous trading hub and major silk production centre, to today’s glamorous role as Italy’s prime tourist destination… you’ll have 2,000 years to cover.

You begin your day with a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, the pride of Como, boasting a brilliant blend of different artistic styles, stretching from the Middles Ages through to the Renaissance and Baroque eras. Construction work started in 1396 and ended more than three hundred years later, in 1740, when architect Filippo Juvarra crowned the queen of Como’s churches with an imposing dome. The 14th century facade is a Gothic marvel featuring elaborately sculpted portals, pinnacles, stone carvings and a rose window. Before stepping inside don’t forget to pay homage to two prominent ancient Roman residents of Como, Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger, who surprise visitors with their welcome from either side of the main entrance, a gesture traditionally performed by saints. The interior proudly safeguards 16th and 17th century tapestries made in Ferrara, Florence and Antwerp, together with paintings by masters Bernardino Luini and Gaudenzio Ferrari, a precious wooden altar from the 1500s and 19th century stained glass windows.

Another of Como’s landmarks, the polychromatic Broletto, has been sitting sedately in the same square of Piazza Duomo ever since 1215. Formerly the seat of Como’s town hall, this building is situated right next to the grandiose cathedral, material evidence of the close connection between religious and political power in the Middle Ages. In 1477 the unfortunate Broletto suffered a reduction in size in order to make room for an enlargement of the cathedral – a heartfelt blow for lay institutions.

From here make your way through Como’s alleys, taking in the sights of handsome palazzi, on a quest for some of the town’s most striking monuments. You will certainly come across the Church of San Fedele, whose simple Romanesque facade conceals a graciously decorated interior, the 40-metre-high Porta Torre erected in 1192 as a defence against enemy attacks, and the extraordinarily well preserved portions of medieval walls. Not to be missed are also the Neoclassical-style facade of the Teatro Sociale and the Casa del Fascio, an example of 1930s rationalist architecture.

After some free time for lunch reach the dock, hop aboard your private boat and set sail for Villa del Balbianello. As you cruise along watch the delightful views of Lake Como’s winding shoreline unravel in front of you: dark green forested slopes rising against a backdrop of majestic snowy peaks, historic mansions set amongst lush Mediterranean foliage, lavish terraced gardens tumbling right down to the banks, pretty villages sprinkled with pastel-hued buildings. Here natural beauty, botanical rarities, art treasures and architectural marvels merge perfectly, creating one of Italy’s finest landscapes. Poet Percy Shelley navigated these waters, enjoying the very same sights you admire today, as he cruised from Como to Tremezzina: “The union of culture and the untameable profusion and loveliness of nature is here so close that the line where they are divided can hardly be discovered”, he noted in a letter dated 1818. You will sail by Villa d’Este, once a Renaissance residence and today a 5-star hotel, glimpse views of the privately owned exclusive Villa Oleandra and Villa La Cassinella, glide past the tiny Comacina Island and dock at Villa del Balbianello.

Perched on the tip of a peninsula jutting out over the lake, this is one of the area’s most stunning estates. Built in 1787 at the request of pleasure-seeking Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, on the site of an earlier 13th century Franciscan monastery, today the premises host magnificent gardens and a house museum dedicated to the villa’s last owner, Count Guido Monzino. Collector, entrepreneur, insatiable traveller and also the first Italian ever to climb Mount Everest, Count Monzino bequeathed the villa to the Italian National Trust so that memories of his thrilling adventures could live on for posterity. Here you may enjoy a 1-hour guided tour of the mansion – which is exactly how the owner left it on his death in 1988 – led by an official guide from the museum. On display are 18th and 19th century furniture, French boiseries, Beauvais tapestries and oriental carpets as well as maps, books, collections of prehistoric artefacts and relics of Count Monzino’s travels, including a dog sleigh from his 1971 expedition to the North Pole. The gardens surrounding the villa are a true masterpiece of landscaping and design. Follow the paths that meander across carefully manicured lawns, bordered with hedges of laurel, magnolias and cypress trees, leading to the lakefront loggia where one of the most fabulous views awaits guests.

Take a last long look at the gorgeous lakescapes before returning to your hotel by taxi boat.

Have you ever wondered which wine George Clooney likes to drink on Lake Como? Discover it along a special biking itinerary! You will have the opportunity to visit a one-of-a-kind agriturismo on Lake Como, one of the very few places that produces wine in the area, and it’s family owned and managed!

Great food, the local elixir, a friendly environment and a fabulous panorama… what could be better than savouring all of this after an energising bike ride?

After breakfast you will meet your guide at your hotel, hop on your bike and start cycling toward the northern tip of the lake for a 28 kilometre one-way ride on traffic-free roads and paths. The terrain is mixed between bike paths, old mule tracks and lakeside trails, with a continuous up and down elevation and constant lake views as you pass through old villages and hidden streets.

The bike ride will end at an agriturismo, set in an enchanting hillside location offering superb views of the lake below. Founded in 1997 by a dedicated husband-and-wife team, this farm aims at promoting the heritage and flavours of this idyllic corner of Lombardy by reviving native grape varieties of Verdesa and Rosseia. Ubiquitous and international Sangiovese and Merlot are also cultivated to please the palate of a satisfied and ever-growing clientele. Here IGT designated red, white and rosé wines are created along with extra virgin olive oil, grappa and blueberry liqueur.

Upon arrival take a seat on the outdoor patio and lap up the wonderful panorama while you enjoy a delicious meal accompanied with the estate’s wines.

In the early afternoon your chauffeur will pick you up and drive you back to your hotel where you may spend the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast and check out meet your driver outside your accommodation on Lake Como and relax on the ride to your hotel on the Riviera. En route, stop to enjoy a private shopping tour of Italy’s fashion capital. You will discover how this northern industrial centre rose to become the country’s main design and sartorial hub, world-renowned for elegance, style and refinement.

Milan has been a famous production centre of luxury goods since the Middle Ages. You may not know that in the 16th century the city’s name gave origin to the English word “milliner”, meaning hat maker, owing to the purchase and importation of women’s finery from Milan. In the 19th and 20th centuries Milan flourished as a major centre of production of silk and textiles but it was only in the 1970s that the city took over the title of Queen of Fashion from its rivals Florence and Rome and became the capital of prêt-à-porter. Designer Elio Fiorucci, who promoted jeans for women in a period of social revolution and protest against the political system, is among the forerunners of Milan’s new trendsetting style. But the city’s fashion stars are numerous and your shopping expert will enrich your experience by recounting historical facts and curiosities about Milan’s major designers and powerhouses. Today the city continues to be the pulsing heart of Italian fashion, attracting hundreds of journalists, buyers and fans from around the world for the traditional Milan fashion week, as here they are sure to find the best of Made in Italy.

This personal shopping tour will be led by a professional fashionista and can be tailored to suit all needs and budgets. Send us your shopping wish list and we’ll create a customised itinerary just for you. Looking for a brand new pair of shoes? A hand-made leather bag? An outfit for an upcoming special event? Precious jewellery for your partner? A sweet scented perfume? Or just some prezzies to take back home? From haute couture boutiques to vintage shops, from artisan ateliers to popular clothing stores, your fashion expert will give you tips on where to find the perfect item. First-time visitors might not want to miss the city’s most important shopping streets and districts such as Piazza del Duomo, with the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and the Quadrilatero della Moda, including Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga, Corso Venezia and Via Manzoni, where prestigious Italian and international brands can be found.

Your personal shopper will provide you with useful styling tricks, show you which colours, fabrics and shapes enhance your features and teach you how to emphasize your strengths. You will also hear the latest on fashion industry secrets, newest looks and upcoming trends.

After the experience and some free time for lunch rejoin your driver and reach your hotel on the Ligurian Riviera where you will be staying for 4 nights. Following check in spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Jump aboard your private boat and enjoy a memorable day at sea. Your skipper will meet you at the port and lead you on a boat excursion along the Gulf of Paradise. Sit back, relax and watch the glorious spectacle of the Riviera as it unfolds before your eyes. You will bathe in crystal-clear waters, explore a quaint coastal town and soak up fabulous views of the Ligurian landscape.

Weigh your anchor and reach your first port of call, Camogli, stopping en route for a refreshing dip in Punta Chiappa. In olden times a thriving harbour, boasting a fleet of almost seven hundred ships at the peak of its glory, today Camogli is a charming fishing village and a popular summer resort. The town’s history is inextricably linked to the sea. According to a local belief, its etymology derives from the shortened words Casa delle mogli, meaning house of the wives, which is thought to be a reference to the women who guarded the town while their husbands – fishermen, sailors or captains – were away at sea. Rows of houses painted in shades of red, pink, apricot and amber once helped sea workers find their way back to the port and today provide a delightful pastime for visitors who enjoy spotting the illusions that decorate their facades. Lifelike inhabitants peer out of the windows, a graceful cat perches perilously on the window sill… and are those real shutters casting shadows on the wall?

After a leisurely stroll through town, set sail for the secluded – though much sought-after – bay of San Fruttuoso. This inlet, tucked away between the sea and woodland slopes, can only be accessed by boat or by descending a steep trail from the mountain above. As far back as the 700s this isolated corner was chosen as the ideal location for a church. According to legend Saint Fructuosus himself, martyred in the 3rd century, indicated this spot as his final resting place. He is said to have appeared in a dream to 8th century Archbishop of Tarragon Prospero who had fled from Spain and the Moors in search of a site on which to preserve the ashes of the saint. The church was rebuilt by the Benedictine monks in the 11th century and from the 13th century to 1983 the noble Genoese Doria dynasty patronized the abbey, renovating its design and transferring the family’s burial ground here. Also located in this cove are a handful of restaurants, a 16th century watchtower and an underwater bronze statue of Christ of the Abyss, protector of all those who venture out to sea.

After some free time for lunch and a healthy dose of “vitamin sea”, rejoin your skipper and cruise back to the port.

Discover one of Italy’s most spectacular destinations on this full-day excursion to the Cinque Terre. This rugged, scenic portion of coastline on the Ligurian Riviera, stretching for eighteen kilometres to the west of the city of La Spezia, comprises five enchanting seaside villages. Along the sharply rising cliffs lie Riomaggiore, a jumble of narrow alleys flanked by pastel-hued tower-houses; Manarola, a splash of colour clinging to a rocky headland; Corniglia, perched precariously on the edge of a 100-metre-high promontory; Vernazza, with its tiny port dominated by the ruins of a medieval castle; Monterosso al Mare, the largest of the five fabulous jewels, graced by a sandy bay and famed for its lemon orchards and anchovies. Breathtaking views, crystal blue waters, gastronomic delicacies and a unique historic and artistic heritage have all contributed to the worldwide popularity of the Cinque Terre since the 1970s when they became a much sought-after vacation hub.

The earliest core of these towns dates back to the 11th century when the tribes that had settled on the hills further inland were prompted to move towards the shore as a consequence of their growing numbers and because Saracen incursions were no longer a threat. It is at this point in history that the heroic populations of the Cinque Terre began erecting dry stone walls, planting vineyards and transforming the rough, unpromising, steep slopes into bountiful cultivated terraces, thus forging the stunning scenery we can still admire today. Thanks to their gargantuan efforts this splendid corner of Liguria earned its World Heritage status in 1997 as an expression of “the harmonious interaction between people and nature to produce a landscape of exceptional scenic quality that illustrates a traditional way of life that has existed for a thousand years and continues to play an important socio-economic role in the life of the community”.

While exploring these fishing and farming villages, visitors may gain a feel for the difficulties and challenges of living in this still unspoiled, once remote pocket of land. Can you imagine how life must have been here before the late 1800s when the railway was first built? Dramatically strung between sea and rock, the Cinque Terre are today linked by trains, ferries and panoramic coastal and hillside hiking trails and are mostly inaccessible to vehicles. These circumstances have helped to preserve their distinctive atmosphere and timeless, magical appeal.

Your chauffeur will pick you up at your accommodation and drive you to the train station in Levanto. Here your private guide will be waiting ready to lead you on an unforgettable tour of three of the Cinque Terre’s villages. Depending on weather, sea conditions and the number of visitors present, you may travel either by train or public ferry boat – or both. You will gain an overview of the region’s fascinating history, from its beginnings in the Middle Ages up to the present day, when the pressing need to protect this precious but geologically fragile heritage site from the onslaughts of extreme or inclement weather are felt with particular urgency. Your guide will be ready to show and tell you all you could wish to know about the fabulous five – from the unparalleled seascapes to culinary delicacies, from local legends to documented facts – ensuring a truly enlightening, enjoyable visit.

After the tour your chauffeur will drive you back to your hotel on the Ligurian Riviera.

After breakfast and check out meet your driver outside your accommodation on the Ligurian Riviera and relax on the ride to your hotel in Tuscany. En route, stop to enjoy a private tour of Pisa.

Pisa, with its 3,000 years of history, record-breaking academic and scientific achievements, culinary feats and artistic wonders is an obligatory stop on every trip to Tuscany. Your guide will be waiting for you in the city centre ready to lead you back down the centuries on an exciting discovery journey of this once powerful maritime republic, feared ruler of the Mediterranean Sea and Italian trade routes. You will retrace the history of Pisa, from its Etruscan origins, through its development and growth as a Roman port, to the city’s rise and expansion in the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries, when many of its striking, much praised monuments were built and the city’s commercial and military might reached an unprecedented pinnacle.

As you wander through the UNESCO-listed Field of Miracles, your guide will paint a vivid scene of life in Pisa in medieval times and explain to which gifted artists and enlightened patrons the city owes this celebrated complex. You will take a peek inside the 11th century Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta to admire the precious mosaic of Saint John the Evangelist by Cimabue and Giovanni Pisano’s skilfully carved pulpit, a true masterpiece of Gothic sculpture. You will also explore the grandiose Baptistery of St. John, the largest in Italy, housing Bigarelli’s splendid baptismal font and Nicola Pisano’s proto-Renaissance pulpit.

But what draws thousands of enthusiasts to Pisa every year is the 12th century Leaning Tower, the town’s most cherished jewel, one of Italy’s most iconic monuments and an authentic miracle of statics known worldwide for its extraordinary tilt. Who’s up for a climb to the top of its 251 spiralling steps? From here, 55 metres above the ground, you’ll have earned a privileged 360-degree view over this remarkable city which has itself become a monument to human genius and creativity.

After the tour and some free time for lunch rejoin your driver and reach your hotel in Tuscany where you will be staying for 4 nights. Following check in spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Raise your glass to Tuscany’s triumphs on this full-day excursion to Chianti and Siena. You will learn all about the production of one of Italy’s most iconic wines and explore the charms of a UNESCO-listed town.

You may not know that the word Chianti originates from the Latin term clangor meaning “clamour”, which refers to the noise produced by the blasts of trumpets, rolling drums and clashing swords that resonated throughout the countless battles that shook the area. As a border territory between the two rival cities of Florence and Siena, Chianti often found itself at the centre of tumultuous events and was far from being the peaceful Eden you can admire today!

Beautiful landscapes, charming towns and fine red wines have made Chianti a must-see for visitors to Tuscany. The region boasts an age-old tradition of vine cultivation that dates back to Etruscan times but it was only in 1716 that Grand Duke of Tuscany Cosimo III de’ Medici officially established the boundaries of the Chianti wine area. Today, a true Chianti must contain at least 80% Sangiovese grapes and can be recognised by its distinctive label, the black rooster – a symbol steeped in a curious legend. Florence and Siena agreed to put an end to their long quarrel over the borders of their territories by each sending out a knight on horseback when the rooster crowed, at daybreak on a given date. The place they met would become the new border between them. The two cities both did their best to outwit their rival. In Siena, the white rooster was treated to a lavish meal in the hope that a full stomach would produce a vigorous morning crow, while in Florence, the black rooster was left hungry so that it would rise earlier, allowing their knight a head start. The latter strategy proved to be the right one for the Florentine knight set off long before his opposite number in Siena and successfully claimed most of Chianti for Florence. Since then the black rooster has been the emblem of the region.

You begin your day with a scenic ride, through the gently rolling Tuscan hills, to a Chianti wine estate. Here, on a tour of the property, you will get to know about wine-making and ageing methods, become familiar with the particular features and regulations that define Chianti Classico and discover the unique characteristics of the terroir and climate that make wines produced here so special. After the visit sit down to a delicious Tuscan meal made with prime quality ingredients and accompanied with the estate’s wines.

Later, rejoin your driver and set off for one of central Italy’s most enchanting medieval towns. Your private guide will be waiting at the meeting point and make sure no fascinating detail eludes you as you follow a stirring trail. No doubt you will notice the symbol of Siena, the she-wolf and twins, which links the town with its Roman origins, though it was not until rather later that this centre bloomed into the glorious gem you see today. Legend has it that Remus’ sons escaped to safety here after the murder of their father by the children’s uncle Romulus, the founder of Rome. Siena is indeed immersed in legends, steeped in ancient traditions and replete with true stories of battles and bravery. The town is also richly peppered with wondrously preserved monuments, churches and architectural marvels, attesting to its extraordinarily rich and riveting past. Between the 13th and 16th centuries the town revelled in a golden age becoming one of the most powerful banking centres on the continent. A number of great artists were called upon to embellish its piazze and buildings securing its lasting fame.

Your guide will certainly show you around the 13th century Church of San Domenico, one of Siena’s best-loved landmarks, and explain why this site is closely associated with the life and miracles of beloved Saint Catherine. A collection of priceless works of art, including what is believed to be the only existing portrait of the saint, embellish the walls of the church but what draws thousands of visitors and pilgrims here is the much venerated relic of Saint Catherine’s holy head, carefully safeguarded in a chapel surrounded by master Sodoma’s remarkable frescoes.

Countless treasures await you inside the black-and-white striped Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta: the wonderfully inlaid marble flooring, the rose window by Duccio di Buoninsegna, the marble pulpit by Nicola Pisano, Donatello’s statue of St. John the Baptist and the gorgeous Piccolomini Library. Well-known for its illustrated hymn books and beautifully preserved Renaissance paintings by Perugian painter Pinturicchio, the library was built at the request of Cardinal Francesco Piccolomini, Archbishop of Siena, to honour the memory and manuscript collection of his uncle Pope Pius II. A radiant fresco cycle depicts a glorified version of the life of the pope as well as mythological scenes and ornate decorative motifs, all rendered with the greatest skill and painstaking attention to detail.

No tour of Siena would be complete without exploring the shell-shaped Piazza Del Campo, for centuries the pulsing heart of the town’s social and political life and known the world over as the atmospheric setting of the Palio. Your guide will elucidate the origins of this famous horse race that still takes place regularly twice a year in July and August and help you understand why the event continues to play a significant role in fostering a Siennese sense of belonging, re-evoking the rivalry that flourished among its seventeen contrade and its legacy of ward-centric culture.

The looming Torre del Mangia, the elegant red-brick buildings and the medieval aura of the city’s narrow winding streets are among the unforgettable impressions to be savoured in this delightful wellspring of wonders.

In the afternoon your private chauffeur will drive you back to your accommodation where you will spend the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast meet your private driver at your accommodation and relax on the ride to Florence. Here your guide will be waiting ready to lead you on an unforgettable Segway tour.

What a glorious way to get a close look at the squares and bridges, the monuments and magnificent facades of the city’s favourite buildings as you sail along smoothly and silently on your own personal transporter! You will enjoy the best of Florence’s iconic attractions together with a tailor-made commentary from your expert guide while cruising around aboard the very latest and greenest motorized vehicle. This carefully planned tour will lead you past picture-perfect piazze, down fashionable streets and hidden alleys, allowing you to gain a real feel for the texture of life in Florence, past and present, in record time. There’ll be ample opportunities for snapping shots of the city’s major landmarks as well as everyday scenes and bustle that take your fancy.

You begin your day with a brief orientation session on how to manoeuvre this 2-wheeled, easy-to-handle, electric vehicle. Once you’re ready, hop on your Segway and begin your exciting ride back down the centuries. You’ll roll across charming squares, beside the River Arno, past glorious churches and noble palazzi, while learning about the most significant events in the history of the city. From its early days as an ancient Roman military settlement, through its rise in the Renaissance as a prosperous trading centre and thriving artistic hub, to today’s prestigious role as one of Italy’s major travel destinations… you’ll have 2,000 years to cover.

Make your way to Piazza del Duomo, the city’s religious heart, graced by three striking monuments: the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence’s best-known landmark and an astonishing feat of engineering; Giotto’s Bell Tower, a fine example of Gothic architecture; the Baptistery, the city’s oldest religious site where poet Dante Alighieri himself was baptized. As you lap up views of the square, you will discover how architect Filippo Brunelleschi, back in the 15th century, built the largest masonry dome still in existence and hear about the competition for the creation of a bronze door that, according to tradition, marked the beginning of the Renaissance era in 1401.

Gripping tales of capture, conspiracy and coups await you in Piazza della Signoria. The square is dominated by the towering Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of political power and intrigue for over seven hundred years. Here, in the out-door sculpture gallery of the Loggia dei Lanzi, you will come face to face with Greek heroes Hercules and Perseus, brought vividly to life on the cusp of their triumphs by Giambologna and Benvenuto Cellini.

Highlights of your tour also include Piazza San Lorenzo with its imposing basilica, once the ruling family’s private place of worship and mausoleum; the popular shopping street of Via Tornabuoni; the superbly decorated exterior of the Church of Orsanmichele… And don’t forget to rub the boar’s snout as you wheel through the Porcellino Market so that you will – as legend has it – one day return to Florence.

After some free time for lunch it’s time to learn more about the exceptional life, extraordinary career and priceless legacy of art history’s leading light on a visit to one of Florence’s most remarkable collections.

Founded in 1784 by the enlightened Grand Duke of Tuscany Pietro Leopoldo, the Accademia has been home to the statue of David since 1873. Michelangelo was only 26 years old when he carved this exquisite work of craftsmanship out of a massive block of marble. The sculpture was originally intended to adorn the buttresses of the cathedral but when David was unveiled in 1504, it became clear that the grandeur and intensity of the masterpiece demanded the more prestigious setting of Piazza della Signoria where a copy stands today. Your guide will throw light on the history behind this colossal 5.17 metre marble statue and explain how David embodies Renaissance criteria of perfection and was immediately reputed by the artist’s contemporaries to be a symbol of strength and heroism – an emblem of the city of Florence itself.

The Accademia also preserves Michelangelo’s unfinished Prisoners and the statue of Saint Matthew along with a fabulous collection of paintings from the 13th through to the 16th centuries.

After the tour rejoin your driver and return to your accommodation in Tuscany.

Language and proverbs reflect the customs, culture and tastes of a territory. It may come as no surprise that many traditional Tuscan expressions are inspired by gastronomy, culinary habits and the act of eating or sharing food, revealing the age-old origins of the region’s food-focused way of life.

Here are three sayings that are evidence of how food has always been central to the hearts and minds of Tuscans and is an essential component of the territory’s culture. Né amico riconciliato, né pietanza due volte cucinata conveys Tuscans’ belief that once your trust in a friend has been broken, your relationship will never be the same again – just like a dish never tastes the same after it has been reheated. Più vale un pan con amore che un cappone con dolore means that a simple piece of bread made with love is better than a succulent capon made with anger, as love is the best of ingredients. A tavola non si invecchia – translating as “one never grows old at the table” – is a tribute to the dinner table and to long-lasting Sunday lunches. An unbroken flow of wine, food and good conversation enlivens spirits, raises energy levels and increases pleasure for all dining companions.

Dip further into Tuscan lifestyle and unlock the secrets behind the region’s celebrated cuisine on a private cooking lesson. Your chef will guide you through the preparation of a delicious meal in true Tuscan style. You will be taught how to match different flavours, discover local recipes and culinary traditions, try out infallible cooking techniques and pick up tips you can use to impress your friends back home at the dinner table. After the cooking class tuck into the meal you just prepared… Buon appetito!

After breakfast and check out meet your private driver outside your hotel and relax on the ride to Rome. En route, stop in Civita di Bagnoregio for some independent sightseeing around this delightful borgo.

Perched precariously on a pinnacle of rock that can only be reached by a narrow footbridge, Civita di Bagnoregio is just about as near as you can get to a fairy-tale village. Centuries of wind and rain have washed away the volcanic rock of the cliff on which it sits and the path that once linked it to the neighbouring town, so that Civita is now completely isolated. The views across the surrounding hills and valley are simply breathtaking.

As you step through the imposing stone gateway, you leave the modern world behind and enter another dimension. Though so much of the foundations has worn away, you can still make out the medieval layout of the town. The old stone tower rises proudly beside the Romanesque church of San Donato. You’ll see picturesque buildings, their steps leading up to old wooden doors; tiny courtyards lined with creepers and flowering plants; picture postcard balconies set out with wrought iron chairs; the elegant, Renaissance facade of a nobleman’s home with nothing but blue sky behind it; cobblestone streets leading off the square past a cluster of huddled workshops to a stone wall and then a sheer drop where the side of the hill has crumbled and rolled down into the valley.

Civita warmly welcomes visitors with a choice of charming eateries, a handful of little shops selling crafts and several enchanting places to stay. The remaining buildings have been beautifully maintained and renovated in keeping with the peaceful atmosphere of this remote, exquisite and most fragile of hamlets. Several projects, conferences and impassioned pleas have been launched to preserve this rare gem from the assaults of time, but despite these efforts, the future of Civita, known as la città che muore, the dying town, still hangs precariously in the balance.

After a leisurely stroll enjoy some free time for lunch then rejoin your driver and head for your hotel in Rome where you will be staying for 4 nights. Following check in spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Relive the astonishing feats and glories of the Roman Empire on a private tour of the capital’s ancient wonders. Accompanied by your expert guide, you will travel down the centuries and find out how this small city-state – by dint of perfectly planned military campaigns, outstanding organisation and technological genius – conquered lands far and wide and spread its influence over vast swathes of the globe, rightfully gaining the title of Caput Mundi – Capital of the World.

Specially designed to provide guests with an overview of ancient Roman history, society and culture, this tour encompasses the most significant and iconic archaeological sites. While you follow a time-worn route, past triumphal arches and majestic temples, your guide will bring the ancient city back to life, conjuring up the epic figures who walked along its streets and the world-shaking events that originated on this very spot. Take a deep breath and what you’ve only read about in books now appears right before your eyes!

Your journey begins as you access the Colosseum, the best-known symbol of the mighty Roman Empire and most visited monument in the whole of Italy. This masterpiece of ancient engineering is evidence of the Romans’ brilliant construction skills and provides an eloquent example of their ingenuity and innovation in the fields of technology, science and architecture, achievements which remained unequalled for centuries. The first stone of the amphitheatre was laid in 72 AD at the request of Emperor Vespasian whose intention was to appease public discontent and control the masses by donating a gift to his citizens and win their support with panem et circenses – bread and circuses. The cruel yet spectacular shows of great popular appeal staged inside the Colosseum were like nothing seen before or since, and included mass executions, warrior fights, wild animal hunts and even naval battles. Here, ill-fated prisoners fought to the death before ecstatic crowds and exotic beasts were butchered in the name of entertainment. While you roam through the ruins of stone walls and bleachers, imagine how a gladiator must have felt as he prepared for combat and awaited his destiny, stirred by the roars and cheers of 60,000 blood-thirsty spectators echoing through the arena.

Next, enjoy the myths and stories that took root in Rome on your climb up to Palatine Hill, the oldest part of the Caput Mundi. According to legend, this is where the baby twins Romulus and Remus are said to have been rescued and raised by the she-wolf and it is here that Rome was founded in 753 BC, after a boundary dispute between the two brothers and a fratricide. For centuries this was the city’s most coveted neighbourhood, owing to the stunning views of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus – Rome’s grandiose chariot-racing stadium – to be admired from the top of the hill. The luxurious villas of the patricians were gradually replaced by the emperor’s awe-inspiring palaces. The impressive remains of the Domus Flavia, the Palatine Stadium and the Baths of Septimius Severus still provide an extraordinary glimpse of the opulent lifestyle and excesses enjoyed by the ancient Roman courts.

Your tour will end with a leisurely stroll through the Roman Forum. Originally the social, commercial and political hub of the ancient city, the Forum was a grandiose district of temples and vibrant public spaces where trials, business dealings and elections took place. The marks of the Roman carriage wheels are still visible along its cobbled streets. As you retrace the footsteps of busy market traders and faithful temple-goers, you will learn about the everyday customs of these city dwellers as well as the rituals and beliefs of their pagan creed. Your guide will certainly point out the Curia Iulia, an imposing building that once echoed with the fierce debates of the senators and the rousing speeches of the great orators. You will also see the Temple of Divus Iulius and find out more about the extraordinary achievements and brutal murder of Julius Caesar, the first Roman citizen to be deified after the mythical founder Romulus. Statues of the priestesses who were tasked with ensuring Rome’s sacred flame remained forever lit still line the hall of the House of the Vestal Virgins. Here, you’ll hear moving stories of their lives and sometimes premature, tragic deaths and discuss the role of women in Roman society. Not to be missed are also the Basilica Julia and the Basilica of Maxentius, the most important courthouses of the ancient city.

What was once a busy centre of Roman city life is now still alive and pulsing with visitors eager to step back into history.

In the afternoon, following lunch and time at leisure, your chauffeur will pick you up and drive you to the Via Appia Antica where you will experience the thrill of cantering along the Regina Viarum – meaning Queen of Roads – just like the ancient Romans did – on horseback.

Located just ten kilometres from the Colosseum, the Ancient Appian Way offers visitors a breath of fresh air in the lush green area outside the centre as well as a unique opportunity to plunge into the capital’s centuries-old history. As the Latin expression goes Omnes viae Romam ducunt – meaning “all roads lead to Rome”. Have you ever wondered how this saying originated? This is where it all began. Running from Rome to the port of Brindisi, the Via Appia Antica was the earliest, widest and strategically most important road in the ancient Roman Republic. Flanked by extraordinary monuments, including mausoleums, ruins of patrician villas and traces of a thermal complex, today this 2,300-year-old cobblestone path continues to impress visitors and is known to be the best-preserved surviving Roman road.

Appropriate for horse riders with experience at any level, from beginners to seasoned cowboys, this activity is led by an expert instructor who can customise itineraries to suit different ages, needs and skills. The owner of the riding school has worked for twenty years in equestrian tourism and his family has lived on a property bordering the Ancient Appian Way for over a century, a guarantee of his in-depth knowledge of the area.

Enjoy the splendid views the Eternal City has to offer from the saddle. As you ride through history along the Ancient Appian Way, imagine chariots whizzing by and the Equites, the ancient Roman knights, galloping off to defend the borders of far-flung corners of the Empire. Just beyond the 5th milestone, you will come across the stunning archaeological remains of the Villa dei Quintili. Built by two wealthy brothers in the 2nd century AD, this prestigious ancient suburban residence was so spectacular that even Emperor Commodus, one of Rome’s most wicked rulers, was impressed by its grandiosity. Commodus grew so envious that he came up with a plan to claim the villa for himself. He charged the brothers with treason, had them sentenced to death and confiscated the property. As luck would have it, Commodus himself was killed ten years later in a conspiracy on this very spot. The imposing ruins of the villa’s thermal baths can still be admired and stand as a potent reminder: Covet all, lose all.

After the horseback ride return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Get ready for a thrilling Roman adventure. From the passenger seats of a stylish Vespa sidecar you will enjoy the ride of a lifetime as you cruise along cobbled alleys, taking in glorious views of the Eternal City.

Rome can claim the highest concentration of scooters in Europe. Locals are totally in love with their buzzing motorini and, while you roam the capital’s hectic streets, the reason immediately becomes clear: they allow you to move with ease through traffic jams. Vespas, in particular, are one of the country’s most iconic brands. First created in 1946, Piaggio’s genial, ultra-practical, revolutionary invention has enjoyed increasing popularity ever since, becoming a symbol of the Italian way of life.

But the sidecar is something truly special. These vehicles are custom-made, a rarity, therefore difficult to find. Compared to 2-wheeled scooters they are more stable. Complete with seat belts for sidecar passengers, they also ensure a safe trip ideal for both adults and children aged 6+. Furthermore, unlike classic Vespas, sidecars can accommodate two guests (one on the back of the Vespa scooter and the other on the passenger seat of the sidecar), allowing you and your travel companion to sit close to each other and share the unforgettable moments of an exhilarating day in Rome.

After breakfast your private chauffeur will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to a centrally located meeting point. Here your Vespa sidecar driver will be waiting ready to lead you on a fun ride through centuries of history. Hop aboard and hit the streets of Bella Roma! Travelling at a maximum speed of 40 kilometres per hour, your Vespa driver will whisk you smoothly along a carefully prepared route taking you past many of the centre’s picture postcard locations. Headsets will allow you to hear a live, detailed commentary from your driver. You’ll get to know the layout of the capital’s historic districts, roll by the archaeological monuments, see the squares and well known buildings, admire the obelisks and fountains, take in the views – all from the pillion and passenger seat of your modern Vespa sidecar. You will also have the opportunity to venture through neighbourhoods that you might have missed or never found time to explore on foot and lap up the most amazing panorama of Rome from the top of one of its highest hills. Along the way you’ll enjoy several stops to record your visit to the capital’s world-famous landmarks and build up your album of Roman memories.

After the ride your private chauffeur will drive you to a restaurant where you may enjoy some free time for lunch. Your guide will join you in the early afternoon and together you will reach Rome’s favourite art gallery, known internationally as the “Queen of art collections”.

Villa Borghese was conceived as a showcase for Cardinal Scipione Borghese’s extraordinarily rich and wide-ranging collection. Volumes have been written about the artworks displayed here and the mastermind behind the impressive purchases. Nephew of the powerful Pope Paul V, from whom he received numerous honours and appointments, Cardinal Scipione Borghese invested his ever-increasing fortune in developing, extending and embellishing the family’s hunting grounds and transforming their suburban residence into a beautifully decorated villa. His passion, or better obsession, for art led him to play the part of patron of acclaimed and controversial artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Caravaggio. Through remarkable acquisitions, exquisite taste and an impeccable eye, Cardinal Scipione created one of the world’s most outstanding private art collections.

As you wander through the gallery’s halls, gazing up at the works of art, enjoy true tales and anecdotes about famous representatives of the Borghese family and the artists who contributed to the splendour of the collection. With the help of your guide you will learn to pick out the qualities and techniques of some of these masters, examine at close quarters the brushstrokes and fine detail that make up the compositions and discover the hidden meanings relating to their iconography. You will also discuss the relationship between art, power, politics and propaganda and understand how the display of artistic treasures was used as a means of affirming social prestige in the 17th century.

Who could resist the sinuous beauty of Bernini’s David as he prepares to strike Goliath or the astonishing virtuosity and elegance of his Apollo and Daphne, caught and held for all time in the very moment she turns into a tree? Works by Raphael, Perugino, Titian and many more will be admired as you amble through the various rooms. Not only Italian masters but Flemish painters such as Brueghel and Rubens are also present in this exquisite collection. The grace of Canova’s life-size Paolina reclining on the sofa, golden apple in her hand or the drama and vivid detail of Bassano’s Last Supper are among the lasting Roman memories you will take away with you.

After the tour your private chauffeur will drive you back to your hotel.

Admire some of the greatest works of art ever created on a private tour of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Follow your guide right to the core of the Christian world and uncover the fascinating history preserved within the walls of the Vatican City. You will gain an understanding of the origins and development of a remarkable 500-year-old collection, retrace the lives of the artists who worked at the papal court and reconstruct the context in which the Vatican’s masterpieces were produced. Your guide will enrich your exploration by recounting intriguing tales about the protagonists of what was once one of the West’s most influential seats of power – and is today the smallest independent state in the world.

The beginnings of this unrivalled collection date back to 1506 when art lover Pope Julius II first started arranging his acquisitions of classical sculptures in the Octagonal Courtyard. This extraordinary – though originally modest – assembly of works was enhanced and extended throughout the centuries by successive pontiffs and evolved into the 7-kilometre-long treasure trove you see today. The dazzling array of wonders on display includes artefacts from so many different eras, traditions and artistic styles ranging from Egyptian steles to Renaissance fresco paintings, from Etruscan bronzes to 16th century maps. Where else can you find the finest sculptures of antiquity, priceless tapestries, Michelangelo and Raphael’s supreme achievements, all hanging out in the same space? Your guide will lead you back down the centuries, along a carefully planned trail, through the museum’s corridors and halls – impossible to cover all 1,400 of them! – and introduce you to the masterpieces no visitor should miss.

While you weave your way through the Pinecone Courtyard, the Belvedere Courtyard, the Gallery of the Candelabra, the Hall of Maps and the Tapestries Gallery you will pick up a sense of this encyclopaedic collection spanning thousands of years. No doubt you will be moved at the sight of the Laocoon – a poignant representation of the anguish and agony suffered by a doomed family – and inspired by the aesthetic perfection of the Apollo del Belvedere and Torso del Belvedere. Your guided encounter with these ancient statues will give you a better understanding of Greek and Roman art and the ways in which Renaissance masters were later influenced by their muscular anatomies and emotional intensity.

Among the unmissable highlights of your tour are also Raphael’s Rooms, four exquisitely decorated chambers once belonging to Pope Julius II’s private apartments. Find out why a young painter from Urbino was chosen for such a prestigious commission and enjoy an introduction to the refined iconography of the School of Athens, Raphael’s best-known fresco depicting antiquity’s most illustrious philosophers.

But what draws millions of visitors to the Vatican Museums every year is the spectacular Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo spent eight years of his life in this sacred room painting what would become the most renowned and iconic images in the whole of Western art. As you gaze up at the stunning frescoes of the Creation of Adam and inspect the intricate composition of the Last Judgement your guide will help you spot fascinating details and decipher the secret messages left here by the Renaissance master in the 16th century. An account of Michelangelo’s life, career and priceless legacy will allow you to gain a deeper appreciation of his unparalleled genius.

The final stop on your tour will lead you to St. Peter’s Basilica, located on the site of what is believed to be the burial place of the apostle and topped by one of the largest masonry domes ever built. Michelangelo’s moving Pietà, a universal icon of maternal tenderness and sorrow, and Bernini’s bronze baldachin cast a deep impression on all those who visit this magnificent church.

Walk out into St. Peters Square, this unique centre of power and glory, where the faithful have gathered for centuries to celebrate great Christian events and catch a glimpse of their Pope, embraced in the curve of its open arms.

After the tour return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast and check out meet your private driver outside your hotel and set off for Positano. En route stop to enjoy some free time for lunch followed by a tour of Pompeii. Your guide will be waiting at the excavations ready to lead you on an exciting exploration of one of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites.

Buried in deadly volcanic ash after the sudden eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and accidentally discovered in 1748, Pompeii is an absolute must for first-time visitors to Italy. Your guide will take you on a carefully planned trail through this incredible ancient settlement and explain the purpose and function of the foundations and buildings you will see along the way. You will also find out about the lifestyle and customs of those who inhabited them, the techniques used to uncover and interpret findings made here and the evidence that has been pieced together to give us such a stunningly vivid and accurate picture of Roman Campania. Although much excavation work remains to be done and conservation presents the curators with a massive challenge, what you can still see and touch here is simply astounding.

Step back in time as you access the excavations through the city gate of Porta Marina. Once inside, follow your guide through the ruins of the ancient city and conjure up scenes of Pompeii’s inhabitants while they go about their daily chores. Can you imagine how life must have been in this once thriving agricultural and trading centre peacefully perched in the shadow of mighty Mount Vesuvius, unaware of the imminent disaster, 2,000 years ago? How did Pompeii’s 15,000 residents spend their time? What were their occupations, beliefs and traditions? What did they eat? Which leisure activities did they enjoy? The answers to these and many more questions are securely safeguarded within Pompeii’s crumbling walls, jigsaw pieces in a tantalizing, real life puzzle just waiting to be reassembled – with a little help from your guide.

When you walk along the well-planned streets, taking the very same route once trodden by faithful temple-goers and busy market traders, you’ll notice the road building skills that were needed to set the large paving blocks in place and the high kerbs and stepping stones conveniently arranged to allow people to cross without getting their feet wet and dirty. This is just one small but significant example of the ingenuity of the ancient Romans in the fields of engineering and urban planning, achievements which remained unequalled for centuries and whose remarkable legacy continues to guide us to this day. Our culinary habits, pastimes and vices too may well have their roots here. From fast foods to spas, from red light districts to gambling the ancient Romans of Pompeii were already seasoned experts in the pleasures and transgressions of the city.

Your guide will certainly point out Pompeii’s age-old venues for public meetings: the forum, once the site of the market, administrative offices and court; the thermal baths where citizens came to relax, play sports and socialize; the temples, a source of precious clues to our understanding of the creed and religious rituals of yesteryear’s worshippers. Theatres were popular with the locals who gathered here to watch a varied calendar of shows, such as Greek tragedies, musical performances, poetry readings and the much-loved light-hearted plays that featured frauds, betrayals and brawls. You will also take a peek inside a private residential villa which provides a wonderful example of the layout of a wealthy citizen’s dwelling and the decorative tastes of the age.

Casts of the bodies of the ill-fated population, trapped forever at the very moment of death, leave the visitor with a particularly haunting memory of a cataclysmic event that has meticulously secured for us so much priceless knowledge about the Roman way of life.

After the tour rejoin your driver and reach your hotel in Positano where you will be staying for 4 nights. Following check in spend the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast meet your private chauffeur in Positano and enjoy a full day of sightseeing along the Amalfi Coast. Some of Italy’s most marvellous landscapes will unfold before your eyes on your visit to two popular summer resorts.

A 1-hour drive will bring you to Ravello. With its beguiling hilltop location, unparalleled panoramas and splendid gardens, this pocket-size town has captivated countless artists, writers and musicians throughout the centuries. Founded in the 400s as a refuge from the Barbarian invasions, Ravello flourished under the rule of Amalfi when wealthy merchants built its most famous villas. Highlights include the Church of San Giovanni del Toro, home to the pulpit mosaics that prompted M.C. Escher to create his interlocking patterns; Villa Rufolo, whose atmospheric setting inspired the enchanted Garden of Klingsor of Wagner’s Parsifal; Villa Cimbrone, world-known for its belvedere poetically named Terrace of the Infinite. Ravello also prides itself on a thriving tradition of ceramic-making. As you wander through its streets you’ll encounter a number of pottery ateliers selling beautifully displayed and exquisitely hand-painted goods, including plates, vases, fruit bowls, mugs and limoncello cups. You’ll find much to feast your eyes on in this delightful town!

After lunch rejoin your driver and reach your next destination. Set at the foot of Monte Cerreto, the small town of Amalfi is, nonetheless, the largest on the coast. It may be hard to believe that in its 10th and 11th century heyday this tiny jewel of a town was a maritime superpower that successfully dominated Mediterranean trade routes, rivalling Genoa, Pisa and Venice. Folklore claims that Amalfi owes its name to a beautiful nymph with whom Hercules had fallen in love. After her premature and tragic death, the Roman hero searched the world over to locate a place that could match her splendour and decided to bury her on this very spot. Above her tomb he built a town in her honour ensuring her name and charm would live for eternity. A plaque welcomes visitors to Amalfi with the following poetic statement: “The day of judgment, for Amalfitans that go to Heaven will be a day like any other”. A treasure trove of artistic and architectural wonders, the town is sure to impress. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Amalfi’s lively streets, revel in breathtaking views from the waterfront and take a peek inside the medieval Cathedral of Sant’Andrea, sitting proudly atop a steep flight of steps on the main square. The mortal remains of Saint Andrew, stolen from Constantinople in 1206, lie under the altar in the lavishly decorated crypt. The adjoining Cloister of Paradise, with its interlaced Moorish-style arches enclosing a garden, is well worth a visit. Originally built in 1266 as a burial place for the local aristocracy, today this peaceful corner offers a shady retreat to visitors basking in the beauty of sunny coastal sights.

In the afternoon your private chauffeur will drive you back to Positano where you will spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Spend a full day at leisure in Positano.

In the evening a delicious tasting menu featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients will be served at a Michelin-star restaurant in Sant’Agata sui Due Golfi, located a 35-minute drive away from Positano.

After breakfast and check out, which will take place before 10:00 or 11:00 AM, meet your private driver in Positano and head for the airport or your next travel destination.