A PERFECT WEEK IN FLORENCE:
ART, CUISINE & WINE
ITALY
July 11-18, 2026
From the Uffizi Gallery to
World-Class Cuisine
Ahhhh Florence. Everyone's favorite. A lifetime spent in Florence wouldn't be enough but if all you have is a week, here's an itinerary that helps you maximize your time and enjoyment. From iconic landmarks like the Duomo and Uffizi Gallery to artisan neighborhoods and world-class cuisine.
With a few day trips into the countryside, you'll see what all the fuss is about and fall head over heels in love with Tuscany. While wandering Florence, if you don't get distracted by the endless spritzes al fresco in the piazza, you'll discover Renaissance masterpieces, stroll through historic gardens, and savor authentic Tuscan flavors while enjoying breathtaking city views. Cin cin!
Highlights
✦ Day Trip to Val d'Orcia for UNESCO World Heritage Castle-Winery Tour, Cooking Class and Wine tasting
✦ Skip-the-line entry to Uffizi Gallery
✦ Guided Food Tour of Florence
✦ Day trip to Chianti & San Gimignano with lunch at a renowned winery with a tasting
The Experience
Get a Taste of the Daily Life
of Florentine People
By drinking and eating with your local guide, you’ll discover a side of Firenze’s historic center that goes beyond the standard tourist destinations.
You’ll take a journey through Tuscany’s vibrant history and hear local food stories from your private guide.
Your guide will reveal the city’s history and share local legends, with a few surprises along the way to make the experience truly unforgettable!
The Experience
Uncover the Living History
of Florentine Craft
By stepping behind the heavy wooden doors of the city's historic workshops, you’ll connect with a side of Florence’s heritage that remains hidden from the average traveler.
Guided by a local expert, you will wander through the quieter corners of the historic center to encounter the city’s living legacy—from the aromatic secrets of Europe’s oldest apothecary to the steady rhythm of traditional leather and jewelry ateliers.
As you explore the shadow of Renaissance palaces and medieval towers, your guide will share the stories of the artisans and friars who have shaped the city’s identity for centuries.
It is an intimate journey through the art of the handmade, where the timeless techniques of the Renaissance are still very much alive, waiting to be discovered.
The Excursions
Explore the
Timeless Treasures of Tuscany
You’ll immerse yourselves in the rich history and breathtaking beauty of these iconic Tuscan towns. From medieval towers to Renaissance ideals, San Gimignano, and Pienza each offer a unique journey through Italy’s cultural heritage.
Pienza
Uncover the charm of Pienza, known as the "ideal Renaissance town," crafted by Enea Silvio Piccolomini, later Pope Pius II. He transformed his humble birthplace, Corsignano, into a Utopian city reflecting the classical ideals and spirit of the Italian Renaissance.
San Gimignano
Discover the medieval charm of San Gimignano, famous for its iconic skyline of ancient towers, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its unique architecture and exceptional 14th- and 15th-century frescoes. Wander its cobblestone streets, where history and beauty meet at every turn. With rich heritage, art, and culture, San Gimignano offers an unforgettable journey back in time.
Want to go at a different time?
Any of our trips can be tailored to suit your needs. Click on the button below and fill out our simple easy form and we’ll send you a quote.
The Accommodation
A Private Palazzo
in the Heart of Florence
Experience the charm of Florence in a prestigious palazzo where history meets modern comfort. Situated in the city center, you can easily explore landmarks like the Florence Cathedral and Uffizi Gallery.
Enjoy stunning city views from select rooms and immerse yourself in the rich historical significance that surrounds this classic accommodation.
FAQs
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We recommend you fly into Florence as it's a small, easy airport to navigate and well connected to the city center. It's also where we're all going to meet in Piazza Santa Maria Novella on the first day of the retreat for private transfer to the villa. Alternatively, you can fly into Rome or Milan and take a train to Florence.
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Yes, absolutely. Write to us at duende@duenderetreats.com and we'll help with a bespoke itinerary suited to exactly what you're looking for.
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All are welcome! It's an itinerary that would be enjoyable for anyone who likes to eat, laugh, walk, cook, wine taste and explore. (Children not permitted.)
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Yes. When you register and pay your 30% nonrefundable deposit, you can opt into setting up a payment plan.
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Deposits are nonrefundable unless there's a waiting list and someone would like to take your spot. In the case we are able to sell your spot, you will be refunded your deposit, less £250 admin / transaction fees.
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The full itinerary will be sent to you about a month prior to departure. If you have specific questions regarding the excursions, please do reach out to us.
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Either June 1st or when the trip is fully booked, whichever comes first. (We expect it to fully book first so don’t wait if you’re interested!)
