A TUSCAN VILLAGE CHRISTMAS
DECEMBER 7 - 13, 2023
When the scent of wood burning fires and roasted chestnuts fill the air, and the crowds of tourists are long gone, Tuscany shines even brighter.
Outdoor Christmas markets pop up in each village and their ancient streets are aglow with twinkling lights and nativity scenes.
Accommodations for this tour is "hotel diffuso" style, where you will spend 6 nights in your own apartment in the village. You can enjoy breakfast on your own at nearby cafes, and we will meet each day for our excursions, classes, and meals. All apartments are located in the historic center of the walled village, and are a short walk to shops, bars, and restaurants.
Sample accommodations in Cortona.
DAY 1 WELCOME TO ITALY
We will pick you up in Florence at the airport or Santa Maria Novella train station. Settle into your apartment and then meet for aperitivo before a welcome dinner at a local trattoria. Dinner together tonight at a trattoria in Cortona with wine pairing led by Sommelier Francesco Fratini.
DAY 2 VISIT ORVIETO
We start this week with a ride to the medieval village of Orvieto. Francesco will lead accompany you to lunch and lead you in an olive oil and balsamic tasting at a friend's restaurant in the village. Visit the impressive duomo with it's frescoed and hand crafted mosaic facade. On the way back to Cortona stop to see the Girafalco Fortress. Dinner together tonight.
DAY 3 MONTEPULCIANO WINE & CHRISTMAS MARKET
Free morning in Cortona before heading out for lunch and a wine tasting in Montepulciano, with free time to visit the village's Christmas market and explore the tiny streets and shops afterward. Dinner on your own tonight.
DAY 4 ITALIAN CHRISTMAS COOKING
Hands-on cooking class today at a organic farm hidden away in the Tuscan hills. Learn to make some of the most delicious Tuscan Christmas dishes. Switch things up with a seafood dinner tonight at a local trattoria.
DAY 5 FLORENCE
Hop the train with your guide for a short ride to the City of Flowers, Florence. Guided walking tour of the cityFree time in the city and free time to shop and explore on your own. Meet for lunch at Sophia Loren restaurant for a taste of the southern Italy with some of the best Neapolitan pizzas and street food around. Dinner on your own tonight back in Cortona.
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DAY 6 PIENZA
Hands-on cheese making class and lunch today with a local farmer in the hills of Cortona. Learn to make Tuscan pecorino with the milk from her sheep. Visit the Renaissance village of Pienza and shop for all types of cheese. If they are sealed you may take them back to America. (What a great stocking stuffer!) Farewell dinner tonight together.
DAY 7 A PRESTO!
After breakfast we will transport everyone to Rome airport or train station as needed. Until next time, arrividerci!
Meet Francesco Fratini, your host for this holiday tour in Tuscany. Francesco grew up in Cortona, Italy as did generations of his family before him. He is an experienced sommelier, driver, guide, and above all a gentleman, who knows the area inside and out.
Francesco also visits Philadelphia to host wine
dinners and classes at Cicala Restaurant to share his love of his region of Italy with Americans. You're in good hands. Sit back and enjoy Tuscany!
A Tuscan Village Christmas 6 night tour rate:
$3,950.00 per person
Included in price:
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6 nights accommodation in your own apartment
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in the historic center of Cortona
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5 Lunches & 4 Dinners
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Wine included with all meals
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Private transportation throughout the tour
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Train tickets for day in Florence
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All entrance fees to excursions outlined in itinerary
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2 Hands-on cooking classes
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All taxes and gratuities
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Transfers to and from Florence. Tour pick up is win Florence. If traveling in and out of Rome, direct trains are available, or private transportation can be arranged for a fee.
Not Included:
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International Airfare
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Travel insurance
