Local Living Italy—Tuscany San Gimignano
Local Living Italy—Tuscany San Gimignano map

Local Living Italy—Tuscany San Gimignano

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If you’ve ever wanted to forge a deeper bond with a destination, this is your chance. Centred in San Gimignano, this Local Living adventure places you in the heart of central Tuscany. You’re free to explore the town, visit vineyards, discover medieval highlights, or embrace your inner artist wandering the Tuscan countryside. If you’re looking for a deeper dive into Italian cities, there’ll be day trips to visit Siena and Florence. You’ll share the main accommodation with like-minded travellers and a CEO (Chief Experience Officer) there to point you in the right direction. Prepare to fall in love with Italy.

  • Service Level Standard
  • Travel Style Local Living
  • Physical Grading 2 - Light
  • Group Size Small Group
Share an apartment in our local friend Ugo's home, eat delicious Tuscan cuisine and sample regional wines, stroll the lanes of medieval San Gimignano, walk along the beautiful Tuscan countryside, make new friends at your home away from home.
Brief Itinerary
Accommodation Hotel (1 nt), apartments in a locally owned home (5 nts).

Our home for the week is just outside the beautiful medieval hill town of San Gimignano. The property owner and San Gimignano native Ugo is a fountain of information about the area and lives in one of the apartments of his remodeled medieval house. We will stay in two apartments in his home. While you're here, relax on the private terrace and feel free to use fresh herbs and produce that are ripe from the garden. Located minutes from a supermarket and 600 meters to the town's medieval gate, the location is ideal as a base of exploration and relaxation.

PLEASE NOTE: If you would like to share a room with your travelling companion, please make sure you book together. If you are unable to book at the same time as your travelling companion, please contact us directly as soon as possible so that we can check availability and, if possible, assign you to the correct room type.

Whats included in this tour

Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Half-day Cooking Class, San Gimignano
Your Local Living Moment: Home Cooked Dinner with Ugo, San Gimignano
Your Local Living Moment: Local Wine Tasting, San Gimignano. Orientation walks in Rome, San Gimignano, and Siena. Walk along San Gimignano's medieval wall. Quarter-day walk through the Tuscan countryside to Montauto. Day trips to Siena and Florence. Transport between destinations and included activities.

Meals Included

6 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Group Leader

Chief Experience Officer (CEO) throughout.

Group Leader Description

This Travel There Co group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

Transport Local bus, train, walking

Intercity transport on this trip will mostly be by train and occasionally by local bus. The bus and train systems in Italy are generally good with seat reservations and toilet/snack facilities on longer journeys.

Please note that you MUST be comfortable carrying your own luggage as there will be a lot of up and down stairs on this trip due to the nature of station layouts in Italy (very few are equipped with escalators or elevators). Between public transport and hotels you may be required to carry your luggage short distances (up to 20 mins walk), in larger cities you may travel by metro or city bus, and occasionally the group will take taxis to and from hotels.

Solo Travellers

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Local Living Italy—Tuscany San Gimignano

Days:Rome toRome

What's Included

Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Half-day Cooking Class, San Gimignano
Your Local Living Moment: Home Cooked Dinner with Ugo, San Gimignano
Your Local Living Moment: Local Wine Tasting, San Gimignano. Orientation walks in Rome, San Gimignano, and Siena. Walk along San Gimignano's medieval wall. Quarter-day walk through the Tuscan countryside to Montauto. Day trips to Siena and Florence. Transport between destinations and included activities.

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Itinerary

Day1Rome

Arrive at any time.

We highly recommend booking pre-tour accommodations in Rome to fully experience all this amazing city has to offer. There's lots to explore! Please note that if Vatican City is on your must-see list, we highly recommend purchasing your tickets online several weeks prior to your trip. Same-day entrance to St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) cannot be guaranteed without advance tickets. Please speak to a G Adventures representative about booking accommodations in Rome before Day 1 of this itinerary.
Meet Your CEO and Group
1h

Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Optional Activities - Day1
Vatican Museum Visit
2h-3h
Vatican City
20.00EUR per person

The Vatican Museums are near St Peter's Basilica and contain priceless works of art from ancient to modern times. There are many different galleries but seeing all of them is definitely not possible in one day, so do a little research before visiting and decide what you really want to see. Two of the most well-known exhibits in the Vatican Museums are the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael rooms.

Optional Activities - Day1
Sistine Chapel
1h-2h
Vatican City
10.00EUR per person

Keep in mind pickpockets love the Vatican. Keep a close eye on all your belongings.

Optional Activities - Day1
Pantheon Visit
Rome

The Pantheon is one of the most famous buildings in Rome. Originally built during the reign of Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the building was rebuilt under Hadrian in 126 AD. The roof is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, and it contains a circular opening (an oculus). It is easily one of the best-preserved of all the ancient Roman buildings.

Optional Activities - Day1
St Peter's Basilica Visit
1h
Rome
FREE
Optional Activities - Day1
Borghese Gallery
1h-2h
Rome
25.00EUR per person

Take a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.

Optional Activities - Day1
Christian Catacombs
1h-1h
Rome
8.00EUR per person

Follow a guide through this ancient underground cemetary.

Optional Activities - Day1
Colosseum Visit
Rome
24.00EUR per person

Enjoy a visit to this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Take a tour of the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please! Please note that this must be booked in combination with the Roman Forum Visit and will include a visit to Palatine Hill.

Optional Activities - Day1
Trevi Fountain
0h
Rome
FREE

Optional Activities - Day1
Spanish Steps
0h
Rome
FREE

Built to connect the hilltop Trinità dei Monti church with the Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Square) below, the Spanish Steps are a colourful example of Baroque architecture from 18th century Rome. Opt to climb its 136 steps, or simply watch the crowds weave through this popular tourist attraction.

Optional Activities - Day1
Trastevere Visit
2h-4h
Rome

Cross the Tiber river to reach the quaint medieval neighbourhood of Trastevere. This is a great opportunity to escape the crowds and get a glimpse into local life.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Hotel Stella (or similar)

 

Day2Rome/San Gimignano

Enjoy a morning orientation walk in Rome, then travel in the afternoon via train and bus to your home for the week. Take an orientation stroll with the CEO for a first glance at San Gimignano.

Transfer by train and bus to San Gimignano and walk to your home for the week, which is located just outside the beautiful medieval hill town of San Gimignano. The property owner, Ugo, is a San Gimignano native and is a fountain of information about the area. He lives in one of the apartments in his remodeled medieval house.

Orientation Walk
1h-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Train
Rome -Poggibonsi

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Local Bus
Poggibonsi -San Gimignano

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Orientation Walk
1h-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

ACCOMMODATION
Agriturismo

Agriturismo Casa Florelia (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day3San Gimignano

Walk on top of the medieval city walls of San Gimignano for a new perspective on the town and sweeping views of the area. Enjoy an included half-day cooking class in the afternoon.

Medieval City Wall Walk
San Gimignano

Take a walk with your CEO around San Gimignano's medieval walls dating back to the 13th century and enjoy sweeping views both outside the walls and down little backstreets within the town. Walk all 7km (4.3 mi) or opt out partway.

Optional Activities - Day3
Wine Museum
1h
San Gimignano
FREE

Learn about the history of San Gimignano's famous wine, Vernaccia. Opt to indulge in a sommelier-guided tasting and enjoy the panoramic views from the terrace.

Optional Activities - Day3
San Gimignano 1300 Museum
San Gimignano

Catch a glimpse into the past with a visit to this gallery. Tour the hand-sculpted reconstruction of medieval street life scenes, representing a culmination of more than 20,000 man hours to complete.

Optional Activities - Day3
Collegiate Church of San Gimignano
1h
San Gimignano

Explore the frescos and towers of this beautiful medieval Roman Catholic collegiate.

Optional Activities - Day3
Torre Grossa
1h
San Gimignano
FREE

Climb up San Gimignano's highest tower, and enjoy the panoramic views over the town.

Optional Activities - Day3
Francigena Walk
San Gimignano

Considered to be one of the most scenic routes in the region, the walk between San Gimignano to Montalcino is part of the Camino di Santiago pilgrimage route. Walk through a portion of this route and enjoy the rolling Tuscan hills.

Half-day Cooking Class
4h
San Gimignano

Expand your culinary skills with a cooking class. Learn how to prepare typical Tuscan dishes and enjoy the fruits of your labour.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Agriturismo Casa Florelia (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day4San Gimignano

Enjoy a day trip to Siena including an orientation walk with the CEO. In the evening, sit down to a home cooked dinner with your Local Living host, Ugo.

Siena Visit
Siena

Head to nearby Siena and wander this medieval walled city. Options abound! Visit the gorgeous Duomo and the Piazza del Campo, where the famous Palio horse race is held each summer. Climb the Torre del Mangia for fantastic views of the Tuscan landscape.

Optional Activities - Day4
Torre del Mangia Visit
1h
Siena
8.00EUR per person

Torre del Mangia stands tall in the centre of the famous Piazza del Campo. Visit this medieval building and climb the tower for fantastic views over the Tuscan countryside.

Optional Activities - Day4
Il Campo Visit
0h
Siena

Visit the Piazza del Campo, the main public square in the centre of Siena. One of the best examples of medieval European squares, the architecture of this area is striking. The Torre del Mangia is in the centre of the shell-shaped piazza and is worth climbing for the beautiful views it affords. Twice a year, the tiny square is transformed by the ancient Palio horse race.

Optional Activities - Day4
Duomo di Siena
Siena
4.00EUR per person

The Duomo of Siena is one of the most stunning cathedrals in Italy. The green and white marble running around the sides is highlighted by red marble in front, and detailed carvings adorn the entire structure. Originally built between 1215 and 1263, this ancient edifice is a must see.

Orientation Walk
1h-1h

Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.

Home Cooked Dinner with Ugo
San Gimignano

Enjoy a dinner prepared by your host, Ugo. Sit back, relax and take in the aromas and flavours of delicious Italian home-cooking.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Agriturismo Casa Florelia (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST|DINNER

 

Day5San Gimignano

Enjoy free time to visit the San Gimignano market in the morning before a leisurely walk through the Tuscan countryside along the historical Via Francigena path to Montauto, where great views of San Gimignano from afar await. In the evening, enjoy a tasting of some local wines.

The Via Francigena, a historical path in use approximately 1,000 years ago by those making pilgrimage between Canterbury, England, and Rome, runs very close to the Local Living house. It is great path for those who wish to explore the Tuscan countryside by foot.

Tuscan Countryside Walk
3h-3h
San Gimignano

Take the ancient Via Francigena path, which passes alongside our accommodation, and walk through some woods, across a stream, and then through vineyards up to Montauto, which offers outstanding views of San Gimignano. Head back down the hill and along a country road.

Local Wine Tasting
San Gimignano

What's a Tuscan holiday without sampling its renowned wines? Sample local wine varieties (provided by Ugo) upon returning to the rustic farmhouse for the night.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Agriturismo Casa Florelia (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day6Florence

Enjoy a day trip to Florence with plenty of free time to check out local museums and plazas. Opt to go out for a final group dinner back in San Gimignano or cook together at the apartments.

While the group will travel together to Florence, the return time is flexible and can vary by each person's touristing stamina. The return ticket is provided, but you decide when to leave.
Optional Activities - Day6
Il Duomo di Firenze Visit
Florence
FREE

This green-pink-white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed.

Optional Activities - Day6
Medici Chapels Visit
Florence
8.00EUR per person

Admire the opulence of the two Medici Chapels. The Sagrestia Nuova was designed by Michelangelo and built as a mausoleum for the powerful Medici family.

Optional Activities - Day6
David (Galleria dell'Accademia) Visit
Florence
22.50EUR per person

Visit Michelangelo's most famous statue, 'David'. Marvel at the artistry on display in the intricately carved piece of marble. Please note that pre-booking your admission online will be 26.50EUR and booking on site will be 22.50EUR.

Optional Activities - Day6
Mercato Centrale (Mercato di San Lorenzo) Visit
Florence

Pick up a purse (or several!), leatherbound journals, Florentine paper, and any off-colour David statue souvenirs you wish.

Optional Activities - Day6
Uffizi Gallery Visit
Florence
20.75EUR per person

Head to the Uffizi Gallery to see spectacular Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci paintings in person.

Optional Activities - Day6
Ponte Vecchio Visit
Florence

Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.

Optional Activities - Day6
National Museum of Bargello
Florence
15.75EUR per person

Explore this museum, housed in one of the earliest buildings in Florence (dating to 1255). Stroll through the corridors to learn about the history of this site and its many uses, and see the fantastic works from master artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo.

Optional Activities - Day6
Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
1h-2h
Florence
17.75EUR per person
Local Bus
San Gimignano -Poggibonsi

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Train
Poggibonsi -Florence

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Free Time
Florence

Get out and explore Florence's many museums and plazas. (or similar)

Train
Florence -Poggibonsi

Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Local Bus
Poggibonsi -San Gimignano

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

ACCOMMODATION
Hotel

Agriturismo Casa Florelia (or similar)


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Day7San Gimignano/Rome

Transfer by bus and train to Rome. Depart in the early afternoon from the Rome train station (Termini). Book flights for no earlier than 6 pm.

If you wish to extend your stay in Rome, consider booking post-tour accommodation with us. Please speak to a G Adventures representative about booking accommodations in Rome after your tour ends.
Optional Activities - Day7
Vatican Museum Visit
2h-3h
Vatican City
20.00EUR per person

The Vatican Museums are near St Peter's Basilica and contain priceless works of art from ancient to modern times. There are many different galleries but seeing all of them is definitely not possible in one day, so do a little research before visiting and decide what you really want to see. Two of the most well-known exhibits in the Vatican Museums are the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael rooms.

Optional Activities - Day7
Roman Forum Visit
1h-2h
Rome
24.00EUR per person

Optional Activities - Day7
Sistine Chapel
1h-2h
Vatican City
10.00EUR per person

Keep in mind pickpockets love the Vatican. Keep a close eye on all your belongings.

Optional Activities - Day7
Pantheon Visit
Rome

The Pantheon is one of the most famous buildings in Rome. Originally built during the reign of Augustus (27 BC - 14 AD), the building was rebuilt under Hadrian in 126 AD. The roof is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome, and it contains a circular opening (an oculus). It is easily one of the best-preserved of all the ancient Roman buildings.

Optional Activities - Day7
Christian Catacombs
1h-1h
Rome
8.00EUR per person

Follow a guide through this ancient underground cemetary.

Optional Activities - Day7
Borghese Gallery
1h-2h
Rome
25.00EUR per person

Take a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.

Optional Activities - Day7
St Peter's Basilica Visit
1h
Rome
FREE
Optional Activities - Day7
Colosseum Visit
Rome
24.00EUR per person

Enjoy a visit to this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Take a tour of the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please! Please note that this must be booked in combination with the Roman Forum Visit and will include a visit to Palatine Hill.

Optional Activities - Day7
Trevi Fountain
0h
Rome
FREE

Optional Activities - Day7
Spanish Steps
0h
Rome
FREE

Built to connect the hilltop Trinità dei Monti church with the Piazza di Spagna (or Spanish Square) below, the Spanish Steps are a colourful example of Baroque architecture from 18th century Rome. Opt to climb its 136 steps, or simply watch the crowds weave through this popular tourist attraction.

Optional Activities - Day7
Trastevere Visit
2h-4h
Rome

Cross the Tiber river to reach the quaint medieval neighbourhood of Trastevere. This is a great opportunity to escape the crowds and get a glimpse into local life.

Local Bus
San Gimignano -Poggibonsi

Climb aboard, grab a seat, and enjoy the ride.

Local Train
Poggibonsi -Termini

Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.

Departure Day (Activities)

Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.


Meals included:BREAKFAST

 

Highlights

Share an apartment in our local friend Ugo's home, eat delicious Tuscan cuisine and sample regional wines, stroll the lanes of medieval San Gimignano, walk along the beautiful Tuscan countryside, make new friends at your home away from home.

Dossier Disclaimer

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Itinerary Disclaimer

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Important Notes

1. It is important to note that in Europe, all guiding is based around local guides all of whom are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places.
2. In Europe it is very rare to find elevators in train stations, hotels or other public places. We use public transport on this trip, which means you will need to carry your luggage from platform to platform, in and out of trains and buses etc. and also possibly up several flights of stairs. You will also need to be able to stow your luggage safely on trains and buses. It is therefore essential that you pack light and bring luggage which is compact and lightweight, and which you can easily transport. The carrying of your luggage remains your responsibility at all times.
3.Please note that if during your visit to Italy you wish to visit popular museums such as the Uffizi or Accademia Galleries in Florence, to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially in high season May-September when it could be a question of hours!), it is advisable to reserve tickets in advance. Tickets can be reserved online at various websites including www.florenceart.it or www.virtualuffizi.com for Florence and www.tickitaly.com for all.

Group Leader Description

This Travel There Co group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

Group Size Notes

Max 8, Avg 6

Meals Included

6 breakfasts, 2 dinners

Meals

Eating is a big part of traveling. Travelling with Travel There Co you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to Travel There Co group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.

Transport

Local bus, train, walking

About our Transportation

Intercity transport on this trip will mostly be by train and occasionally by local bus. The bus and train systems in Italy are generally good with seat reservations and toilet/snack facilities on longer journeys.

Please note that you MUST be comfortable carrying your own luggage as there will be a lot of up and down stairs on this trip due to the nature of station layouts in Italy (very few are equipped with escalators or elevators). Between public transport and hotels you may be required to carry your luggage short distances (up to 20 mins walk), in larger cities you may travel by metro or city bus, and occasionally the group will take taxis to and from hotels.

Local Flights

Solo Travellers

We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and single travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

Accommodation

Hotel (1 nt), apartments in a locally owned home (5 nts).

About Accommodation

Our home for the week is just outside the beautiful medieval hill town of San Gimignano. The property owner and San Gimignano native Ugo is a fountain of information about the area and lives in one of the apartments of his remodeled medieval house. We will stay in two apartments in his home. While you're here, relax on the private terrace and feel free to use fresh herbs and produce that are ripe from the garden. Located minutes from a supermarket and 600 meters to the town's medieval gate, the location is ideal as a base of exploration and relaxation.

PLEASE NOTE: If you would like to share a room with your travelling companion, please make sure you book together. If you are unable to book at the same time as your travelling companion, please contact us directly as soon as possible so that we can check availability and, if possible, assign you to the correct room type.

Joining Hotel

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the Travel There Co App or contact your travel agent.

Joining Instructions

Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day. Upon arrival to the city on day 1 (or earlier if you have booked pre-accommodation), please make your way to the joining hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon). Once you arrive at the hotel, look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!

If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.

Getting to Hotel Stella (please check your vouchers to ensure this is your start hotel):

By Bus from the Airport:

Shuttle buses run from Fiumicino airport and Ciampino Airport to Termini station in the city centre approximately every half hour. Look for the Terravision stand at the arrival terminal. Cost is €5 one way and takes approximately 1 hour.

By Train from the Airport:

The Leonardo Express is the name of the train that will shuttle you from Rome's main international airport, Fiumicino, to central Rome's Termini station. A Leonardo Express train leaves every half hour in each direction.

Trains to Roma Termini Station start at 6:35 in the morning with trains running at 5 and 35 minutes after the hour. The last train of the day departs at 11.35pm. The train station is open 4am to 1am and covers 35 km in around 30 minutes. Cost is 14 Euros per person. Tickets for Leonardo Express are available at rail ticket office, newspaper seller tobacconist's, and self-service tellers, each located in the railway station atrium.

NOTE:
You must always stamp tickets in the machines on the platform before starting your journey.

To find the hotel, exit Termini train station via the right hand exit, if you have your back to the trains, and walk toward the sign posted Via Marsala. Cross the street into Via Marghera and then take the third street on your left, Via Varese. Coninue straight across piazza Indipendenza At the end of the piazza, the street will become Via Castelfidardo. Hotel Stella is at number 51.

By Taxi from the Airport:

Taxis run fixed rates to and from airports. The rate is 40 EUR. The rate for designated Fiumicino taxi drivers is 60 EUR and are inclusive of luggage, for a maximum of four passengers.

Arrival Complications

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO (if you are not on a group tour please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier). If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details.

Emergency Contact

Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the Travel There Co Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our Travel There Co Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.

EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS

Travel There Co Office London, United Kingdom
During Office hours (Weekdays, 9am-5:30pm Local Time)
+44 20 7243 9870

For absolute emergencies after office hours please contact: +44 7817 262 559

If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below, which will connect you directly with our 24 hour Sales team, who will happily assist you:

Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999

What to Take

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, as well as on and off transportation.

Checklist

Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Rubber gloves

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Laundry

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap. Aboard the expedition ship Explorer laundry facilities are provided at a charge. Aboard the Amazon Explorer laundry facilities are provided free of charge for each passenger once a week.

Visas and Entry Requirements

Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.

All visitors to the EU (European Union) and EEC (European Economic Community) countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand passport holders do not need a visa to visit the Schengen area (see below), however they may not stay longer than three months in any 6-month period.

For other nationalities, travelling in Europe has been simplified with the introduction of the Schengen visa. As a visitor to the Schengen area (Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Portugal, Finland, Italy, Spain, France, Luxembourg, Sweden, Czech Republic, Hungary, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland) you will enjoy the many advantages of this unified visa system. Generally speaking with a Schengen visa, you may enter one Schengen country and travel freely throughout the Schengen region during the validity of your visa. There are limited border controls at Schengen borders, if any at all.

Please note that the UK and Ireland are NOT part of the Schengen agreement.

A Schengen visa is applied for at the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country in which you will be spending the most nights on your trip to the Schengen space. If you are only visiting one country on your trip then you apply for your visa at the Consulate of this Schengen country.

Spending Money

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

Money Exchange

Italy is in the Eurozone and the unit of the currency is the Euro.

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Visa cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Italy - check with your bank. You should be aware when purchasing products or services on a credit card, that a fee usually applies.

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Euros, traveller’s cheques and cards is best. Avoid relying on traveller's cheques alone as these are less and less readily cashed as clients use them very little.

Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Emergency Fund

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Departure Tax

Usually included in international air ticket, please check with your airline before flying.

Tipping

While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers.

Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

At the end of each trip, if you felt your Travel There Co CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €30-€40 per person, per week can be used as a guideline.

Optional Activities

Vatican City
- Vatican Museum Visit (20EUR per person)
- Sistine Chapel (10EUR per person)

Rome
- Pantheon Visit
- St Peter's Basilica Visit (Free)
- Borghese Gallery (25EUR per person)
- Christian Catacombs (8EUR per person)
- Colosseum Visit (24EUR per person)
- Trevi Fountain (Free)
- Spanish Steps (Free)
- Trastevere Visit
- Roman Forum Visit (24EUR per person)

San Gimignano
- Wine Museum (Free)
- San Gimignano 1300 Museum
- Collegiate Church of San Gimignano
- Torre Grossa (Free)
- Francigena Walk

Siena
- Torre del Mangia Visit (8EUR per person)
- Il Campo Visit
- Duomo di Siena (4EUR per person)

Florence
- Il Duomo di Firenze Visit (Free)
- Medici Chapels Visit (8EUR per person)
- David (Galleria dell'Accademia) Visit (22.50-26.50EUR per person)
- Mercato Centrale (Mercato di San Lorenzo) Visit
- Uffizi Gallery Visit (20.75EUR per person)
- Ponte Vecchio Visit
- National Museum of Bargello (15.75EUR per person)
- Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (17.75EUR per person)

Health

Please note inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up to date medical travel information well before departure.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. Please refer to the Physical and Culture Shock ratings in this dossier for trip specific information. For travellers over 70 years a completed Medical Form is required. Travel There Co reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if in the reasonable opinion of our CEO they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

Safety and Security

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it is deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Your CEO will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy or explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgment when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Protests and Demonstrations- Protests and demonstrations, even those that are well intended, have the potential to turn violent with no warning. Counter protests can also turn violent. Action by security forces to disperse demonstrators and protesters may occur at any time. If you are in an area where demonstrators or protesters are gathering, avoid the temptation of staying for a good photo opportunity and leave the area immediately.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards) have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk.

We take all prudent measures in relation to your safety. For ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling, please visit:

<a href="http://www.travelthereco.com/travel-resources/safety/">
www.travelthereco.com/travel-resources/safety/</a>

Trip Specific Safety

Like anywhere in the world, major cities have areas safer than others, use common sense, be aware of your surroundings and mind your personal belongings.

Medical Form

A Couple of Rules

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter, and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of prostitutes is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they use prostitutes.

A Word of Warning

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

Planeterra-The G Adventures Foundation

Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into Travel There Co’ itineraries globally.
Travel There Co is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need.

Travel There Co Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with <a href="https://www.planeterra.org">Planeterra Foundation</a>.

Did you know? Most communities around the world do not benefit from tourism. Give back to the places you visit on your travels by creating opportunities for local people to earn an income, and protect the environment.

Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

Local Dress

In Italy, shoulders should be covered while visiting churches and cathedrals. Ask your CEO for more specific advice.

Feedback

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next Travel There Co trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@travelthereco.com and we will send it on to you.

Newsletter

Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from Travel There Co, subscribe at <a href="https://www.travelthereco.com/newsletters/">www.travelthereco.com/newsletters/</a>

Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for <a href="http://letsgo.travelthereco.com/Planeterra-Consumers_Planeterra-Newsletter-Signup-Page.html">Planeterra's monthly news</a> to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.

Minimum Age

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a Travel There Co tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

International Flights

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Hotel (1 nt), apartments in a locally owned home (5 nts).

Our home for the week is just outside the beautiful medieval hill town of San Gimignano. The property owner and San Gimignano native Ugo is a fountain of information about the area and lives in one of the apartments of his remodeled medieval house. We will stay in two apartments in his home. While you're here, relax on the private terrace and feel free to use fresh herbs and produce that are ripe from the garden. Located minutes from a supermarket and 600 meters to the town's medieval gate, the location is ideal as a base of exploration and relaxation.

PLEASE NOTE: If you would like to share a room with your travelling companion, please make sure you book together. If you are unable to book at the same time as your travelling companion, please contact us directly as soon as possible so that we can check availability and, if possible, assign you to the correct room type.

Departure Dates Confirmed Dates Trip Status Trip Status Seats Available Seats Available Price Per Traveller