Tuscany and Cortona (2010)

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From $2745.00, per person, plus air and V.A.T., based on double occupancy.

Operated by Alumni Holidays International (AHI). An Alumni Campus Abroad trip

From the innovations of the Etruscans to the enlightenment of the Renaissance, Tuscany is a region steeped in history and human achievement. Let the charming village of Cortona be your base as you travel through the surrounding Tuscan hill country, admiring the beauty of the land. In Siena, navigate narrow cobblestone streets lined with Gothic buildings, visit the magnificent Duomo, and stroll the Piazza del Campo, one of the loveliest squares in Italy. In the Umbria region, explore medieval Assisi, home to the exquisite Basilica of St. Francis, and Perugia, an ancient Etruscan city-state. Then, journey to tiny Montepulciano, set in the heart of Chianti Country. Finally, experience the brilliant artistic and architectural heritage of Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance.

Day 1
Depart your gateway city for Florence, Italy, aboard scheduled jet service. (Provided for Air Program participants only.)

Day 2
Upon arrival, transfer by motorcoach to Cortona and Hotel San Luca. (Transfer provided for Air Program participants only.)

This evening, gather with fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner at the hotel.

Day 3
Educational Focus: Cortona and Environs.

Excursion: Walking Tour of Cortona. Admire the treasures of Cortona as you stroll past historic palazzi and charming piazzas. Visit the Romanesque cathedral and the Diocesan Museum.

Excursion: The Tuscan Countryside.
Travel through the hill country surrounding Cortona and admire the breathtaking scenery.

Local Flavor: Tour a winery and sample its superb vintages and fine local cheeses.

Day 4
Excursion: Assisi.
Visit the magnificent walled city of Assisi. Experience its treasures, including the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli and the Basilica of St. Francis which stands against the towering backdrop of Monte Subasio.

Local Flavor: Induldge in a delicious lunch served at a restaurant in Assisi.

Excursion: Perugia.
See the Fontana Maggiore and the Prior’s Palace, which houses the National Gallery of Umbria.

Day 5
Excursion: Montepulciano.
Travel to walled Montepulciano, a town of Renaissance-style palazzi and churches. Stroll the main street, chat with artisans and peek into wine cellars filled with Vino Nobile.

Educational Focus: Etruscan and Medieval History.

Excursion: Museum of the Etruscan Academy. Visit Cortona’s 14th-century Praetorian Palace, where the Museum of the Etruscan Academy will astound you with ancient works of art.

Day 6
Educational Focus: Renaissance Art.
 
Excursion: Siena.
See the Piazza del Campo, one of the loveliest squares in Italy and the 14th-century Torre del Mangia that rises in the distance. Visit the Gaia Fountain and the dramatic black and gold striped Gothic Duomo.

Educational Focus: Meet the People.

Day 7
Excursion: Florence.
Embrace the heart of Tuscany and the Cradle of the Renaissance with a full day in Firenze! A guided tour highlights the city’s art and architecture.

Independent Exploration: Spend time at leisure pursuing your own interests in Florence.

Day 8
Educational Focus: A Contemporary View of Italy.

Local Flavor: Attend a presentation of Tuscan cooking and cuisine then sample the finished product.

This evening, attend a festive Graduation Ceremony and Farewell Reception followed by a special Farewell Dinner at a renowned local restaurant.

Day 9
Travel by motorcoach to Florence for the return flight(s) to your gateway city. (Provided for Air Program participants only.)

Updated July 26, 2009.