Tuscany is known equally as the cradle of the Renaissance and a center of culinary delights and astounding wines. Throughout this emerald-green countryside dotted with cypress trees, endless delights unfold. Among them is Florence, a living museum of the Renaissance. Brunelleschi’s famous Duomo dominates the medieval cityscape—an architectural achievement. Another Tuscan treasure, the Square of Miracles, unfolds in Pisa. Here, a trinity of masterpieces—the Leaning Tower, Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery—comprise some of Europe’s finest art and architecture.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
From Tuscany to Pisa
See the famous Leaning Tower and its magnificent Square of Miracles on this included tour.
Florence & the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Witness the splendors of the Renaissance in two of Tuscany’s most renowned cultural centers: Florence and Pisa.
Florence & the Pitti Palace
Discover why Florence has been called a work of art as you explore the city and one of its beautiful museums.
Italy’s Art & Architecture
Explore the Renaissance treasures of Florence, including Michelangelo’s famous David, on an enlightening excursion.
The Renaissance Treasures of Florence
See Florence’s treasured works of art in its spectacular public architecture and at one of its renowned museums.
Scenic Lucca & Pisa
Admire one of Tuscany’s best-preserved medieval cities and marvel at the architecture in Pisa’s Square of Miracles.
A Day in Tuscany
Indulge in two enchanting experiences: a stroll through the hill town of San Gimignano and lunch at a Tuscan farm.
Florence On Your Own
Follow your own interests on this independent excursion, whether visiting must-see treasures or lesser-known gems.
Cooking in a Tuscan Castle
Experience pure Tuscany with a private tour of a castle’s wine cellar and a cooking lesson in its modern kitchen.
Lucca On Your Own
Explore Lucca, a small medieval town steeped in history and culture.
Fiat 500 Experience & Florence On Your Own
Discover Florence on your own and enjoy two hours touring the Tuscan hills with a local in an iconic Fiat 500.
Leonardo da Vinci’s Museum & Historic Lucca
Admire the Leonardo da Vinci Museum’s displays showcasing his works as a scholar, inventor and genius of his time.
Carrara Marble Quarry & Mining Town
Visit the Carrara marble quarry, which has long been a favorite of some of the world’s most famous sculptors.
Chianti Wine
Bask in the beauty of Tuscany during visits to the village of San Miniato and an elegant wine estate.
A Taste of Florence
Spend time in the heart of Florence and join a culinary guide on a gourmet journey through Tuscan cuisine.
Private Excursion: Florence & the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Witness the splendors of the Renaissance in Florence and Pisa during a private, small group experience.
Videos
Anne Diamond interviews Baroness Caterina de Renzis Sonnino
Join British journalist Anne Diamond for an interview with Baroness Caterina de Renzis Sonnino, cultural ambassador for Castello Sonnino, a historic farm and winery that overlooks the Chianti Hills near Florence. Since taking over the running of the estate with her husband in the late 1980s, the Baroness has worked tirelessly to preserve its history for future generations. Along with producing fine wines and olive oils, the farm is also home to the Castello Sonnino International Education Centre, which welcomes exchange students from around the world to learn about enology and sustainable tourism. Watch as the Baroness shares what life is like on the estate and recounts the story of Sidney Sonnino, who twice served as Prime Minister of Italy, as well as Foreign Minister during World War I.
The Origins of Opera
What has made opera such a popular and enduring art form? Join Karine as she takes you behind the scenes of this distinctly Italian creation at its source—the opera houses of Italy.
Restoring Michelangelo’s David
Get closer to Michelangelo’s towering David, a masterpiece both revered and reviled by Florentine citizens over the centuries. Join Karine in Galleria dell'Accademia as she meets the woman behind the restoration of this remarkable sculpture.
Pisa’s Leaning Tower: A Galileo Laboratory?
Climb up this iconic landmark with Karine and learn about the bell tower’s intriguing history, including the legend of Galileo and his test of a key hypothesis from the top of this slanted structure.
Italian Language Lesson
Learn a few useful Italian words and phrases with Elena, your Viking tutor. Salute!
Inside Italy’s Coffee Culture
If you cannot tell your macchiato from your espresso corto or you do not know why you should drink your coffee standing, join Karine and friends to explore Italy’s thriving coffee culture.
Fresh Pasta: Fast, Fun and Easy!
Venture into the Tuscan countryside to learn the art of making fresh pasta. Under the watchful eye of a delightful Italian mama, Karine learns the secrets of this Italian favorite.
Discover Italy’s Magnificent Formal Gardens
Join Karine as she explores several exquisite Italian gardens, where contours and textures, order and nature, mingle in the midst of verdant beauty.
