Veni, Vidi, Vici: Umbria & Tuscany By Design

Welcome to Ostia! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)

VITERBO: Guided walking tour and free time for lunch.

SPOLETO: Orientation. (B)

YourChoice Excursions include one of the following activities of your choice:

• TREK: Chasing Waterfalls Among the highest cataracts in Europe, Marmore Falls is the highest man-made waterfall in the world. Created by the ancient Romans to drain the swamps above the Nera River, these spectacular falls remain an engineering feat and one of the most spectacular natural attractions of Umbria. Follow an expert natural guide on a short and easy path through the park's pristine natural setting leading up to the falls. You'll get close enough to almost touch the thundering falls. Try not to get soaked!
  
  
• GAZE: Isn't it Romantic? The excellent location of the city of Terni has ensured that it was an important trading and transport centre for goods of all kinds throughout history. So, it's no wonder that Terni was not a very small city, even during Rome's world power. Visit the Roman amphitheater, where concerts are still performed today—a perfect example of Roman legacy. Terni is also the birthplace of St. Valentine, protector of lovers. Spend some free time visiting the saint's tomb at Basilica San Valentino and, why not learn all about his life.
  
  
• STROLL: Diamonds in the Rough Wild truffles have been called the “diamonds of the kitchen.” These jewels of haute cuisine are hard to come by and in great demand by elite chefs across Europe who pay top dollar (or Euro) for this flavourful delicacy. During an unforgettable cultural experience in the hills of Umbria, you'll learn the art of truffle hunting with local farmers who share everything you need to know about finding, collecting, and cultivating truffles. A great experience for foodies and wine lovers, this excursion to Umbria will also delight you with its spectacular countryside and lovely people. (B)

PERUGIA: Orientation and free time.

SIENA: Guided walking tour includes sights of the Duomo and Piazza del Campo. (B)

YourChoice Excursions include one of the following activities of your choice:

• FEAST: Like Mama Used to Make! In Siena, learn how to prepare an authentic Tuscan meal from the freshest seasonal ingredients. Under the instruction of a professional chef, you'll learn the secret techniques for preparing wonderful dishes using fresh, organic ingredients. Your personal chef instructor will assist you in preparing a delicious Italian meal, including appetisers, a made-from-scratch pasta dish, main course, and dessert. Mangia!
  
  
• PEDAL: Firenze in Bicicletta Discover the soul of Florence on a small-group bike tour through its maze of quaint cobblestone alleys and small piazzas. Breathe in fresh air and the city's most impressive landmarks, including historic city centre and Oltrarno. On this guided bike ride, uncover Florence's hidden views and secret spots only the locals know and love. Take a break, park your bike, and relax with lunch at a local restaurant!
  
  
• GAZE: When in Florence Follow your expert Local Guide through a maze of must-see-sights and legendary landmarks. You'll hear a secret or two about the stunning sights that only locals know, and celebrate your day with a traditional T-bone steak for lunch in one of the best ristoranti in Florence. (B/L)

YourChoice Excursions include one of the following activities of your choice:

• DELVE: Time Travel in Tuscany Located on a hill 550 metres above sea level. the ancient city of Volterra is visible from afar and dominates the entire area with a magnificent view from its legendary fortress walls and gates. On a clear day, you'll see as far as the Apuan Alps and across the Mediterranean Sea—50 km away to Corsica. Discover nearly 3000 years of history in one of Italy's oldest cities with a visit to the Museo Etrusco Guarnacci for an in-depth look at its extraordinary Etruscan culture.
  
  
• PLAY: Golf Swings or Thermal Springs Take your pick of a day on the links or working out the kinks at Royal Golf La Bagnaia resort spa. Serenely situated on more than 130 hectares of wooded hills and tranquil landscapes, this prestigious golf course was designed by renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones Jr. to skillfully blend with the ancient ambience of the surrounding area. La Bagnaia Resort has risen to the top in Tuscan golfing circles, offering one of the most thoughtful course designs in Italy. If golfing is not your idea of relaxing, we'll treat you to a visit to the resort's world-class spa.
  
  
• CREATE: Colour Your World Find your inner artist in Siena. Follow your painting instructor to learn how to draw with free-flowing lines and stir your imagination while mixing and brushing translucent watercolors onto the canvas to create a masterpiece of your own to take home. (B)

CIVITA DI BAGNOREGIO: Guided walking tour.

NETTUNO: Visit the American Cemetery.

OSTIA: Farewell dinner at local restaurant. (B)

Your holiday ends with breakfast in the morning. (The nearest airport is Rome.) (B)