The Cradle of the Renaissance

Step off of your cruise ship and into the beautiful Renaissance city of Florence. With only one day, it is important to make sure you see the most important sights of the city. Our tour will begin at the Uffizi where you will see several galleries containing works by Botticelli, Giotto, Cimabue, Rafael, Titian, Caravaggio, Rafael, Da Vinci, and Michelangelo. The Uffizi contains masterpieces such as Botticelli's Birth of Venus and Primavera, Caravaggio's Medusa, and Da Vinci's Annunciation and Adoration of the Magi.

Step out of these breathtaking galleries and into the Palazzo Vecchio, the most important civic monument of Florence and one of the most significant buildings in Italy. Within the walls of this magnificent structure which was once the home of the Medici family, you will see the frescoed sale (rooms) such as the famous Salone di Cinquecento and the Sala di Verocchio. Palazzo Vecchio also contains three elegant courtyards you will have the opportunity to enjoy on your tour. Outside of Palazzo Vecchio you will see a copy of Michelangelo's David in the statue's original location.

Just a few steps away is the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence's Cathedral Church (Duomo). You will hear the history of the facade and this elaborate Church's construction, including the magnificent dome designed by Filippo Brunelleschi. The Duomo is located in the historical center of the city and stands as a sort of centerpiece of Florence.

We will then walk to the Accademia, stopping at some of Florence's most important historical points along the way. During the walk your guide will fill you in on interesting historical anecdotes about the city, and when we arrive at the Accademia, you will see the actual statue of Michelangelo's David, among other Florentine masterpieces. Your guide will discuss the history of the statue and give you interesting background on Michelangelo as he made the sculpture.

We will complete the tour with a visit to Ponte Vecchio, the beautiful medieval bridge over the Arno River with a glorious view of the city. Here you can take photos and eat at a traditional Florentine Restaurant overlooking the river before returning to your cruise.