A PERFECT WEEK IN FLORENCE:
ART, CUISINE & WINE
ITALY
July 11-18, 2026
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!
✦ 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
Harvest, Heritage & Harmony
This is Tuscany seen through the eyes of insiders — not rushed, but rich in taste, texture, and connection. It’s ideal for travelers who want to slow down, savour authentic places and food, and return home with a deeper understanding of Italian culture and hospitality.
Evening Jazz Soirees
We have secured exclusive access to private venues usually closed to the public. Picture Stella Cole performing an intimate concert within the walls of a historic Renaissance masterpiece in Pienza, or singing in an organic 'Pagoda' cellar where the music resonates not only with the audience but also with the vines themselves.
The Green Gold of Chianti
November in Italy is the month of the olive. During the week we’ll have the chance to head to an olive grove for an olive harvest experience where we’ll learn the ancestral art of pressing "green gold." And of course after a tasting of the young oil —a unique, peppery flavor — lunch will follow in the heart of the Chianti hills.
The Table & The Terroir
From a guided tour of the medieval towers of San Gimignano to a private cooking masterclass at a historic estate, every meal is a journey into mindful and immersive experiences. We dine at family-run cheese farms and Tuscany’s top-tier wineries, ensuring every bottle opened is as significant as the music played.
The Excursions
Explore the
Timeless Treasures of Tuscany
We’ll immerse ourselves in the rich history and breathtaking beauty of three iconic Tuscan towns. From medieval towers to Renaissance ideals, Montepulciano, 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. 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.
Montepulciano
Wander Montepulciano’s narrow streets, where history, art, and tradition blend seamlessly. With its renowned wine and cultural treasures, Montepulciano offers a captivating experience that echoes through the ages.
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
Private Palazzo
in the Heart of Florence
Inclusions
Prices are per person and include:
Shared rooms starting at
£3950 per person
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!)
