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£ 1,517 / adult
Immerse yourself in the art, food and culture of Italy
Itinerary
Depart MIlan and fall for Cinque Terre and Florence
Day 1 - Explore the iconic Cinque Terre
Pick up time: 8.15am
Location: Milan Pick Up, Hotel AC SESTO, Via Luciano Lama, 10, Milan, 20099
Cinque Terre
Milan to La Spezia
It’s time to say goodbye (for now) to major city life and embrace the beautiful coastline of Italy. We depart Milan and travel through lush valleys and dramatic mountainous terrain before reaching the stunning Ligurian coast, or the Riviera di Levante – “the coast of the rising sun”. This region has been a popular destination for travellers for hundreds of years and it will come as no surprise once you lay eyes on its scenery. Terraces are carved into the hillsides, olive trees and grapevines extend out around you, and the air becomes infused with the salty tang of the sea.
La Spezia
We arrive at our first main stop of La Spezia, a port city known as the gateway to Cinque Terre. Whether you’re interested in its naval and maritime heritage or its strong art culture, La Spezia is a lively place you’ll be thrilled to explore. This will also be your first overnight stay but before we get too settled, we check in at our accommodation and head to the train station together. Why? Because Cinque Terre awaits.
Free time to explore Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre. The name itself means ‘five lands’, and these five coastal villages have their own personality. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. It’s up to you which ones you want to visit. Nested against the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera, everywhere you look you’ll spot colourful houses, winding streets, stunning panoramas, hiking trails, local produce and specialities, vineyards and terraced landscapes, quaint fishing harbours, and too many opportunities for a killer photo.
Cinque Terre and free evening in La Spezia
Your evening can be whatever you’d like it to be. Perhaps you’ll linger in Cinque Terre a bit longer and have a bite to eat as the sun sets over a glorious ocean. Or maybe you’ll opt to return to La Spezia for your evening indulgences before settling in for the night.
Accommodation
CDH Hotel La Spezia, La Spezia (or similar)
Accommodation is included in the price of your tour. Simply select your preferred room type(s) during checkout.
Day 2 - Pisa and the walled city of Lucca
Pick up time: 8.15am
Location: Milan Pick Up, Hotel AC SESTO, Via Luciano Lama, 10, Milan, 20099
Pisa
Pietrasanta
We say farewell to La Spezia this morning and journey back in time to when narrow medieval streets, charming piazzas, and grand cathedrals were the norm. On the coast of northern Tuscany, you’ll find the sweet town of Pietrasanta, often referred to as the “City of Artists” thanks to its tradition as a hot spot of sculptors and artists. Perhaps that has something to do with the renowned Carrara marble quarries nearby, which have supplied marble for some of the world’s most iconic sculptures and buildings. This historically charming town is brimming with sculptures, an open-air gallery, and stunning buildings.
Lunch in Pisa
Next up is a place that needs little to no introduction. Many have journeyed to Pisa over the years to see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Now it’s your turn. You have time here to explore the other beauties of this wonderful city, including exploring the Piazza dei Miracoli (the Square of Miracles), take a jaunt along the Arno River, visit the Camposanto Monumentale, discover the many churches of Pisa, and simply enjoy the local cuisine.
Lucca
Our final stop of the day is the charming walled city of Lucca. Here you’ll find a delightful blend of historical, cultural, and scenic attractions. Maybe you’ll walk along the city walls. Perhaps you’ll visit the Piazza dell’Anfiteatro. Or find yourself in one of Lucca’s beautiful churches – perhaps the Cathedral of St Martin.
Free evening in Florence
We then head into the bustling city of Florence, your overnight stay for the next two nights. Fashion, culture, history, architecture, cuisine... Florence has a lot going for it. Surrounded by gentle rolling hills, farms and orchards, villas and vineyards, Firenze (as it’s known to the locals) is an indulgence. How will you spend your first night here? Wandering the streets and taking in the incredible duomos, bridges and buildings? Or sitting in a cobbled courtyard somewhere with a plate of Ragu di Cinghiale and a glass of Chianti?
We recommend our guests pre-book tickets to popular Florence attractions: Uffizi, Academia, Duomo
Accommodation
4* B&B Hotel Firenze Laurus Al Duomo, Florence (or similar)
Accommodation is included in the price of your tour. Simply select your preferred room type(s) during checkout.
Day 3 - Explore the masterpieces of Florence
Pick up time: 8.15am
Location: Milan Pick Up, Hotel AC SESTO, Via Luciano Lama, 10, Milan, 20099
Florence
Guided Tour of Florence
Buongiorno Firenze, and what a beautiful morning it is because today you indulge in the passion that is Florence. It might be worth learning a few local phrases to help navigate your adventures around the city today, and to help set your bearings, we start with an included guided tour around Florence’s cobbled streets. Your guide will point out some of the city’s most impressive features while telling you a bit about its history.
Free Time in Florence
After the guided tour finishes, the rest of the day is yours to do as you please. Florence is a masterpiece, and, as the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region, it's the home to a range of Renaissance art and architecture. It brims with life and excitement, fashion and culture, food and all manner of treats. There’s far too much to choose from. So, what’s on your list?
Perhaps you’ll stroll across Ponte Vecchio and get an iconic shot of this famous medieval stone arch bridge crossing the Arno River. Or maybe you’ll head inside the the Uffizi Gallery, an iconic art gallery housing Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Caravaggio’s Medusa. Wherever you end up, you’ll see echoes of Florence’s history and stories etched into every nook and cranny.
Free Time in Florence
Exploring a new place is the best way to build up an appetite, and you’re in Florence now, a city known for more than its striking architecture. We’re talking about cibo – food. Perhaps you’ll partake in a Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a T-bone steak seasoned with salt, pepper and olive oil. This traditional Florentine dish pairs well with a glass of Chianti, just saying.
If you’ve been snacking throughout the day (as is custom when gelato and Cannoli tempt you at every corner), perhaps you’ll go for something lighter like Ribollita, a classic Tuscan vegetable soup. Or maybe a simple (yet incredible) slice of pizza while you wander is more up your alley.
Free evening in Florence
And as the sun sets on another gorgeous day in Italy, it's time to settle down for another romantic and historic city. You’ll go to sleep tonight knowing you’re surrounded by fine Italian wine, quiet medieval streets, and the memory and influence of famous artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
Accommodation
4* B&B Hotel Firenze Laurus Al Duomo, Florence (or similar)
Accommodation is included in the price of your tour. Simply select your preferred room type(s) during checkout.
Day 4 - Bologna
Pick up time: 8.15am
Location: Milan Pick Up, Hotel AC SESTO, Via Luciano Lama, 10, Milan, 20099
Bologna
Scenic drive through Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna
Farewell Florence, we’ve had a wonderful time. And with memories of Raphael's La Velata in your mind and the taste of Ribollita lingering on your tongue, we head back into the landscapes of Italy. We journey through the heart of Tuscany, where cypress trees line the hills like soldiers watching over their most beloved landscape. We then pass through the region of Emilia-Romagna, known as the "food valley" thanks to its rich food and wine production, before arriving at our next destination: Bologna.
Bolonga
We know what you’re thinking... Bologna... as in Bolognese? Yes, as in rich, delicious Bolognese sauce. Where better to grab a pasta Bolognese than in the place where it was invented? Bologna is a feast for the palette. Wander the winding market streets, pick out some fresh produce from cheese to cured meats, perfectly ripe fruit to a packet of handmade pasta to take home with you. Grab a snack and head to the Piazza Maggiore. Take a seat on the steps of impressive buildings like the Basilica di San Petronio and Palazzo Comunale. This city has a wealth of medieval and Renaissance architecture, not to mention museums and art galleries.
Grazzano Visconti
After a lively morning and delicious lunch in Bologna, we head to Grazzano Visconti. This picturesque medieval village was designed by Giuseppe Visconti in the 20th century as a way to glimpse into medieval Italian life. The architecture and layout of the village reflect the charm of the past, from cobblestoned streets to stone buildings, and Visconti Castle at its centre.
Return to Milan
Time to say goodbye to the past and re-enter the present as we head back to Milan. We depart the fairytale-like village of Grazzano Visconti, rich and fertile farmland stretching out around you as we continue to pass small villages and towns, soaking up the last few hours of an Italian countryside. But don't despair at the end of your adventure, your memories and souvenirs and photos can take you back there any time you wish.
What our customers say
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Pick-up & drop-off
Milan Pick Up, Hotel AC SESTO, Via Luciano Lama, 10, Milan, 20099
Boarding closes at 8.15am
Milan Drop Off, Hotel AC SESTO, Via Luciano Lama, 10, Milan, 20099
Luggage
All passengers are entitled to 1 piece of checked luggage & 1 small carry on bag. Checked luggage will be stowed in the luggage compartment (not assessable until drop off) while smaller bags for personal items (eg medication, water etc) may be taken on board.
Weather
Italy’s weather is as diverse as its regions, offering sunny beaches, mild springs, and even snowy mountain escapes. Each season brings new opportunities to explore the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-famous cuisine. Embrace every forecast and discover Italy’s endless charm!
Spring (March - May)
Spring in Italy is fresh and lively, with average temperatures ranging from 50-65°F (10-18°C). Rain showers are common, especially in April, but sunny days are frequent. Expect monthly rainfall of 2-3 inches and humidity levels around 70-80%.
Summer (June - August)
Summers are warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from 70-90°F (21-32°C), though coastal areas enjoy refreshing breezes. Inland areas can be hotter. Monthly rainfall is around 1-2 inches, and humidity is moderate at 60-70%.
Autumn (September - November)
Autumn is mild and pleasant, with temperatures between 55-75°F (13-24°C). Rainfall increases to 2-4 inches, especially in November, and humidity levels remain moderate at 60-70%. The countryside is beautiful with fall foliage, making it a perfect time to explore.
Winter (December - February)
Italian winters are mild, with coastal regions enjoying temperatures around 45-60°F (7-15°C), while northern areas can experience colder temperatures and snowfall. Rain is more common in the south, and humidity levels hover around 70-80%.
Accessibility
We aim to make your tour as comfortable as possible and accommodate accessibility requirements to the best of our ability. Our buses are maintained to a high standard and our drive guides are trained to provide support to passengers.
- Vehicle Types
- European tours use 19-seat mini-coaches without toilets
- Entry & Exit
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Front left passenger door with three 150mm steps.
- Grab handles on both sides, non-slip treads, and clearly marked step edges.
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- Seating
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Standard coach seats, with a step up to the back row.
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Seat configuration: single seats on the passenger side, double seats on the driver’s side.
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Three-point seatbelts on all seats (must be worn when moving). Seatbelt extenders available on request.
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- Mobility or special requirements
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Mobility or special requirements should be made clear at the time of booking to ensure the most appropriate accommodation is allocated to you.
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Buses are not wheelchair accessible.
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Large luggage compartments for manual folding wheelchairs or walking frames (no battery-operated wheelchairs allowed).
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Staff cannot provide physical assistance. Guests must be able to board and exit independently or with companion assistance.
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- Accommodation
We’ve hand-picked three-star to four-star hotels in remote coastal villages, bustling towns, and mountain valleys. Please let us know when you make your booking of any specific requirements you have and we will try to do our best to work with our hotel providers to accommodate it.
- Lifts and elevators
Lifts and elevators are generally available in hotels, but please state such a need in specific requirements when you make your booking or contact us.
FAQ
Hello curious traveller, are you ready to go beyond with us? Whether you're heading to the iconic cities of Andalucía, the Italian Lakes, or further; we know you might have a few questions before setting off on your adventure. Our FAQs are here to help make your journey smooth and stress-free.
- Do I need a visa to take this tour?
Entry requirements vary depending on your nationality, personal circumstances, and the country or countries you will travel to and transit through. It is your responsibility to ensure you have all relevant documentation required for your selected itinerary and that you meet all formal entry requirements before travelling.
Check the official tourism website of the country you’re visiting for up-to-date and reliable information. Travel between countries is easy because there are no passport checks at the borders.
- Do you offer hotel pickups in the departure cities?
Europe's historic city centres are full of narrow streets and winding roads. So, to speed up your departure and avoid contributing to congestion issues, we start our trip from hotels located conveniently on the edge of cities. We choose hotels with good public transport connections to the city centre, so you can enjoy your evening explorations.
To make your tour more convenient, you can contact us and add an optional pre and post-departure accommodation in the hotel we use as a pick up or a drop off point. Email our friendly team tours@rabbies.com.com and they will arrange this for you.
- When should I get to the departure point?
Arrive at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before your departure time. Unfortunately, we’re unable to wait for you if you’re late due to vehicle restrictions. But depending on your situation, we may be able to help you catch up with your tour.
- What are your cancellation policies?
We have a cancellation period of 56 days for our Europe tours. If you cancel your trip before this period, we give you a full refund minus a 10% admin charge. If you cancel inside this time frame, you’re liable for the cost of the tour package.
Click here to view full terms and conditions.
- What is a guaranteed departure?
It's simple: you book, you go. This means we'll never cancel your tour because of a minimum numbers policy.
- Can routes change?
Your friendly driver and guide are passionate about the places they visit and know all the local gossip. This means your tour itinerary can change a little due to festivities, attraction opening hour changes, and spontaneous photo opportunities.
- Can I pre-book a specific seat?
Due to logistical reasons, we're unable to let you pre-book a seat on the bus. But our comfortable mini-coaches offer a good view.
- Are there toilets on the bus?
We like to keep our coaches small and nimble. This means we have no on-board toilet facilities, but you frequently stop in local towns and villages for comfort breaks.
- How much time do I get off the bus?
We want you to enjoy your trip to Europe. And we believe the best way to do this is to get you off the mini-coach and out exploring. So, we give you plenty of stops to take photos, go walking, and explore ancient ruins.
- Do you take children on your tours?
We're unable to permit children under 18 years old on our Europe tours due to the nature of the activities that are included.
- What are 'included activities' and 'optional activities'?
We've arranged experiences for you on your tour. The 'included activities' are already booked and paid for as part of your trip, whereas you can purchase 'optional activities' while on your tour. You also have free time in many destinations to pick and choose which attractions you visit.
- Do we need to bring our own lunch?
You don't need to pack or bring along food on the mini-coach. We stop in small European towns, villages, and rural eateries where you can choose whatever meal pleases both your taste buds and your budget.
- What should I do if I have too much luggage?
It’s more enjoyable to travel with light luggage. You can take less by cleaning clothes along the way. Most hotels provide affordable laundry service.
But if you're travelling with more than 20kg, don't worry! There are left luggage facilities close to the majority of our departure points, and courier companies who could ship your excess luggage on to your chosen destination. Our team are happy to help if you need any suggestions or recommendations.
- Should I tip the driver and the guide?
Let's be honest, our drivers and guides would never refuse a cheeky bonus. But it's up to you, and the amount is entirely at your discretion.
- What about travel insurance?
We highly recommend you take out travel insurance, so you can enjoy a stress-free journey.
UK and EU customers have financial protection against our insolvency when booking packages or linked travel arrangements, for more details click HERE.
- What is ABTOT?
You're protected by ABTOT when you book a tour with us. This means you can claim back anything you've paid us if we run into any issues. Read our terms and conditions for more information.
Our packages are covered by the Package Travel Regulations. For full details of your key rights please click here
- I have more questions, who can help me?
If you have any more questions, call us on +44(0)131 226 3133, email tours@rabbies.com , or check out our full FAQs .
Tour Reviews
We're very proud of our tours - but don't just take our word for it. Read our favorite Trustpilot reviews below.