Explore the cradle of the Italian Renaissance.
FLAVORS OF FLORENCE
Discover the authentic flavors of the most peculiar Florentine specialties and explore the city with a highlights of its typical dishes. Your Access Italy guide will take you through a unique discovery of the city center that will bring you to explore the local market and a few other shops that will surprise you with their unique flavors. You will be able to taste many traditional snacks while at the same time your guide will provide insights both on the local food culture and the beautiful city of Florence, allowing you to conclude this experience with a full heart and, most importantly, with a full stomach.
TRUFFLE HUNTING EXPERIENCE
Search for truffles in the Tuscan countryside and discover the history and production of these prized culinary delicacies. Your Access Italy Truffle Hunter will take you on walking truffle tour, where you’ll learn to scout this rare, edible mushroom with the help of a truffle-hunting dog. Tuscany is one of the most important regions in Italy for truffle production, and after the hunt, you will learn more about what many consider to be the most prized cooking ingredient in the world, “the diamonds of the kitchen” by some gourmet chefs. You will learn the best methods of cleaning, packing, storing and cooking the truffle mushroom before the day finishes with a tasting of fresh truffle-infused dishes.
TUSCAN HILLS: LUCCA & PISA
Immerse yourself into the Tuscan Hills, visiting the picturesque towns of Lucca and Pisa. Your Access Italy driver will take you to Lucca, a small Tuscan town famous for its Renaissance city walls and Romanesque churches. You’ll walk on its fortified walls and discover the Duomo, an 11th-century Cathedral decorated with black-and-white marble, typical of this architectural period. Next is the visit of a local Villa, one of the most important houses in the Lucchese territory. Walk around the peaceful gardens, with their beautiful fountains and trees. After lunch, you will continue onto Pisa and step into the famous Medieval Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), home to the unforgettable Leaning Tower.
FLORENCE ARTISANS AND BOTTEGAS
Discover the ancient art of crafting and modeling precious jewels, woven fabrics and pieces of art. Your Access Italy guide will lead you through a journey along the ancient streets of Florence, where you will visit the shops of local artisans and admire them at work. Learn some tips and tools used by master craftsmen and admire the traditional minute techniques used by the best in the field. During your exploration, you will be shown a variety of antiques, models and artifacts that are renowned among the collectors in the world.
