DAY 1: UK - Florence.
Fly to Florence and make your own way to your hotel. Alternatively, a transfer is pre-bookable at a supplement.

DAY 2-4: Florence. At Leisure.
The Tuscan capital is a living breathing museum overflowing with art, architecture and history. Florence owes much of its heritage to its patrons, the Medicis who guided the city and encouraged the renaissance movement for which the city is so well known. Their influence is overwhelming, proven by their family crest being proudly displayed all over the city.

Much of this compact city is pedestrianised so it's ideal for visitors who want to wander at leisure and stroll amongst the narrow, winding streets to discover one stunning landmark after another.

The most striking is the fabulous Duomo, the red-domed cathedral is the most predominant structure on the Florence skyline, however, close-up the building is just as beautiful and the intricate design will take your breath away.

Continuing your exploration, be sure to visit the Piazza del Signoria and the Piazza San Lorenzo. Both flanked on all sides by fabulous buildings and each home to numerous, priceless works of art. Such highlights include the Medici family chapels in the Piazza San Lorenzo or the Fountain of Neptune in the Piazza del Signoria. As well as being home to wonderful works of art and architecture these squares also represent the cosmopolitan side of Florence where you can while away hours people-watching while sipping coffee in a pavement café.

The city is divided by the River Arno, crossing this is another of Florence's main attractions the Ponte Vecchio. A unique and enthralling structure, it was the only bridge in Florence to survive an attack by the Germans during World War 2. Inside the structure is a lively maze, with fascinating market stalls and an old world ambience.

On the south bank of the Arno is the Pitti Palace. A huge collection of art and architecture which lay testament to the wealth and extravagance of the Medicis. At the rear of the Palace the exquisite Boboli Gardens are home to wonderful array of fountains and flowers offering a wonderful example of renaissance landscaping.

The breathtaking church of Santa Croce is the high point for many visitors to Florence. Containing 276 tombs the church is the final resting place for such distinguished figures as Michelangelo, Macciavelli and Galileo and is decorated by works by artists such as Giotto.

Then of course there are the art galleries. The Uffizi and the Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David are the first stop for most visitors, but there are so many to choose from all home to breathtaking works of art.

Of course if the art and architecture become too overwhelming, escape the city and discover the rolling hills of Tuscany, famous for their olive groves, Chianti vineyards and relaxed pace of life. (B)

DAY 5: Florence - UK.
Make your own way back to Florence airport for your flight to the UK. Alternatively, a transfer is available at a supplement and should be pre-booked prior to departure. (B)