This itinerary will be altered to accommodate the performance, gallery opening times and the availability of guides.  However the essential content of the itinerary will remain the same.
B L D means that breakfast, lunch and/or dinner will be included that day.

Sun 28 Dec          Transfer to Florence                                          B D
This morning we drive by coach from Umbria to Florence. We will stop at Cortona on the way to view the town and the works of Signorelli and Fra Angelico, arriving at our accommodation in the centre of Florence in the late afternoon. We have an orientation walk around the area near our hotel, including Piazza della Signoria, the Straw Markets, and Ponte Vecchio. Welcome dinner in a favourite spot near our hotel.

Mon 29 Dec          Piazza Duomo & Medici Riccardi     B
This morning we stroll to the magnificent Piazza of the Duomo of Florence. as well as the Medici-Riccardi chapel with its fresco cycle by Benozzo Gozzoli of the Journey of the Magi. We are in the area near to the famous San Lorenzo leather markets, so we will leave you here to explore.

Tue 30 Dec          Bargello,  Pitti                          B
There will be a guided visit of the Bargello sculpture museum containing works by Michelangelo, Donatello and Verocchio. In thre afternoon we include the famous portrait gallery in the Pitti Palace containing stunning works by Raphael, Titian, and Van Dyck.

Wed 31 Dec        New Year's Eve                                                        B D
 In the morning accompanied gallery visits  including the church of San Lorenzo with its extraordinary marble inlay work and the sculptures by Michelangelo for the Medici tombs.

Thu Jan 1           New Year's Day  -  Day at Leisure
A day at leisure with an optional guided afternoon walk up to Piazza Michaelangelo for photo opportunites with the city as a backdrop.

Fri  Jan 2          Fiesole, Medici Villas, Gardens & Performance
We drive out of the city to nearby Fiesole to visit Medici villas and gardens. In the evening we attend the opera in the city. Exact performance details are to be advised. 

Sat  Jan 3         
 A farewell dinner is included in a characteristic Florentine restaurant.

Sun Jan 4    Transfer to Florence Airport or railway station        B