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Italy

The Hidden Treasures of Florence

Program No. 18647RJ
See a side of Florence rarely shown to outsiders as you enjoy inside access to the Museo del Duomo, explore palaces and aristocratic mansions and attend lectures at private galleries.

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Feb 3 - Feb 12, 2025
Starting at
3,199
Filling Fast!
Mar 24 - Apr 2, 2025
Starting at
3,449
Apr 7 - Apr 16, 2025
Starting at
4,149
Filling Fast!
Apr 21 - Apr 30, 2025
Starting at
4,149
May 5 - May 14, 2025
Starting at
4,149
Sep 1 - Sep 10, 2025
Starting at
4,149
Sep 15 - Sep 24, 2025
Starting at
4,149
Sep 22 - Oct 1, 2025
Starting at
4,149
Nov 3 - Nov 12, 2025
Starting at
3,449
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Feb 3 - Feb 12, 2025
Starting at
3,929
Filling Fast!
Mar 24 - Apr 2, 2025
Starting at
4,319
Apr 7 - Apr 16, 2025
Starting at
5,339
Filling Fast!
Apr 21 - Apr 30, 2025
Starting at
5,339
Filling Fast!
May 5 - May 14, 2025
Starting at
5,339
Sep 1 - Sep 10, 2025
Starting at
5,339
Sep 15 - Sep 24, 2025
Starting at
5,339
Sep 22 - Oct 1, 2025
Starting at
5,339
Nov 3 - Nov 12, 2025
Starting at
4,319
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

This is a special opportunity to experience Florence at its absolute best — beyond the throngs of tourists in quiet neighborhoods where artisans and patricians live side by side amid colorful window boxes, cobblestone streets and churches with many hidden stories waiting to be told. View works by Michelangelo, Donatello and the great Renaissance masters.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 3 miles over the course of a day, uneven terrain; standing up to one hour at a time during on-site lectures.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Learn from top historians about lesser-known works of art in galleries and private collections not open to the public.
  • Visit the Scuola del Restauro and discover what it takes to preserve and repair invaluable masterpieces.
  • Enjoy Roman, Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic architecture over cocktails and apéritifs.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Mario Carniani
A native of Fiesole, Italy, Mario Carniani graduated with honors from the University of Florence with a focus on foreign languages and literature. After pursuing studies on Elizabethan drama in England, he moved on to teach Italian at the British Institute of Florence and English in Italian State schools. He has conducted courses on Italian literature and history for numerous international institutes based in Florence, including Georgetown University and Dartmouth University.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Mario Carniani
Mario Carniani View biography
A native of Fiesole, Italy, Mario Carniani graduated with honors from the University of Florence with a focus on foreign languages and literature. After pursuing studies on Elizabethan drama in England, he moved on to teach Italian at the British Institute of Florence and English in Italian State schools. He has conducted courses on Italian literature and history for numerous international institutes based in Florence, including Georgetown University and Dartmouth University.
Profile Image of Giovanni Guidetti
Giovanni Guidetti View biography
Giovanni Guidetti is an expert in travel with decades of experience. He specializes in Renaissance and Baroque Florentine art as an art historian with a Master’s in Art History from the University of Florence. Giovanni loves to share the beauty of the Tuscan landscape as a professional leader in Florence, Fiesole, and Prato. Currently, he is the Scientific Director at the Museum of Sacred Art of San Donnino. Giovanni has also led lectures and presentations on Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical artists and monuments.
Profile Image of Caterina Zanobetti
Caterina Zanobetti View biography
Caterina Zanobetti is a licensed group leader because she loves arts, history, and visitors' curiosity. She likes telling stories, legends, and sharing the emotion of discovering the towns and beautiful places of her country. She was born in Rome, but has lived in Florence since she was a teenager. After working several years in an import-export, she decided to turn her passion into a job, and studied to become a group leader.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
10 days
Program Begins
Florence
Program Concludes
Florence
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
16 | 8B | 5L | 3D |
Activity Level
This is a special opportunity to experience Florence at its absolute best — beyond the throngs of tourists in quiet neighborhoods where artisans and patricians live side by side amid colorful window boxes, cobblestone streets and churches with many hidden stories waiting to be told. View works by Michelangelo, Donatello and the great Renaissance masters.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Learn from top historians about lesser-known works of art in galleries and private collections not open to the public.
  • Visit the Scuola del Restauro and discover what it takes to preserve and repair invaluable masterpieces.
  • Enjoy Roman, Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic architecture over cocktails and apéritifs.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Mario Carniani
A native of Fiesole, Italy, Mario Carniani graduated with honors from the University of Florence with a focus on foreign languages and literature. After pursuing studies on Elizabethan drama in England, he moved on to teach Italian at the British Institute of Florence and English in Italian State schools. He has conducted courses on Italian literature and history for numerous international institutes based in Florence, including Georgetown University and Dartmouth University.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Caterina Zanobetti
Caterina Zanobetti
Caterina Zanobetti is a licensed group leader because she loves arts, history, and visitors' curiosity. She likes telling stories, legends, and sharing the emotion of discovering the towns and beautiful places of her country. She was born in Rome, but has lived in Florence since she was a teenager. After working several years in an import-export, she decided to turn her passion into a job, and studied to become a group leader.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to 3 miles over the course of a day, uneven terrain; standing up to one hour at a time during on-site lectures.
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (9 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
10 days
9 nights
What's Included
16 meals | 8B | 5L | 3D |
5 expert-led lectures
13 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
8 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 03:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After checking-in at the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax as the remaining participants arrive.< br> Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. All activities will be led by the Group Leader unless specified otherwise. Each day will have a minimum walking distance of 2 miles. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions to visit the Brunelleschi Dome. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Before dinner, we’ll enjoy a welcome cocktail together.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
We’ll continue getting to know each other, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the full day ahead.
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles on cobblestone streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will enjoy a lecture at the hotel given by a local professor focusing on Michelangelo, his genius, and his relationship with the town of Florence. We will walk with our professor through the Central Food Market of San Lorenzo, a unique experience of the senses.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant,
Afternoon:
We’ll continue our walk to the Cappelle Medicee, an astoundingly beautiful chapel. to see the monumental tombs of Giuliano and Lorenzo de’ Medici, realized by Michelangelo. Free Time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off minivan.Walking about 1.5 mile on cobblestone streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will start the day with a walking field trip to the Cathedral, Santa Maria del Fiore — known simply as the Duomo. The Brunelleschi dome crowning the Cathedral is for sure the most amazing construction of the Renaissance. It is a miracle of architecture, still the largest masonry dome ever built, nearly 150 feet across. We will visit the Museum of the Opera, where our local professor will give an on-site lecture on Gothic and Renaissance art, focusing on the Brunelleschi’s design for the dome, to learn more about Brunelleschi’s amazing achievement.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll walk to Santa Croce (Basilica of the Holy Cross). We will enjoy a lecture, given by our local professor on Florence war and flood. This is the richest medieval church in Florence and the largest Franciscan church in the world. This church features frescoes by Giotto, a chapel by Brunelleschi, and the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, Machiavelli, and a cenotaph to Dante Alighieri. It is considered the Italian Pantheon for the toms of so important people buried here. We will transfer by minivan with our Group Leader to the Church of San Francesco Poverino, to attend a private organ concert. After the concert we will walk to the hotel.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off minivan. Walking about 1.5 mile on cobblestone streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will transfer by minivan to the Palazzo Spinelli for field trip to the Scuola del Restauro, or School of Restoration, where we will learn from expert staff about some techniques and recent developments in the science of conserving and restoring works of art.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will walk with an expert-led to the Palazzo Medici Riccardi, the first Medici Palace, where Cosimo the Elder and Lorenzo the Magnificent lived and artists such as Donatello, Michelangelo, Paolo Uccello, Benozzo Gozzoli and Botticelli worked. The real jewel of the building is the Chapel of the Magi frescoed by Benozzo Gozzoli in the fifteenth century. We will enjoy a lecture given by our local professor on art and the works of Benozzo Gozzoli. We will then walk to visit the Church of Santo Spirito to admire Michelangelo's wooden crucifix. We will return to the hotel by minivan
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off minivan. Walking about 1.5 miles on cobblestone streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll travel by minivan to the Uffizi Gallery. We will hear a lecture about the artists who inspired Michelangelo by our local professor. Notable components of the gallery include Cimabue, Giotto, Masaccio, da Vinci, Botticelli and Titian.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
We’ll then enjoy some personal independent exploration at the Uffizi Gallery.
Dinner:
At the local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off minivan. Walking about 1 mile on cobblestone streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll travel by minivan to the Museo Horne with our Group Leader and a local professor. Once a private building it was donated by the owner Mr Herbert Percy Horne to the town of Florence. Entering the building is a real surprise, with Giotto, Simone Martini, Masaccio, Filippino Lippi, Domenico Beccafumi and Giambologna just displayed as at home. We will then walk to Casa Vasari and visit the Great Hall decorated by Giorgio Vasari round 1572. Since his death in 1574, The Great Hall has remained untouched by the countless renovation schemes to which the Home has been subjected down the centuries.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free Time.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off minivan. Walking about 1.5 miles on cobblestone streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will walk to Palazzo Gondi, where Marchese Gondi will take us on a field trip of this elegant renaissance palace with definitive architectural, historical and familial explanations. The palazzo was designed for the Gondi family in 1490 by Giuliano da Sangallo, a favorite architect of Lorenzo de Medici. The exterior of the Palazzo displays the classic layered design with each successive story a smoother, more subtle reflection of the one below. The open, central courtyard features a lovely fountain and columns with delicate and varied Corinthian capitals. A monumental staircase with detailed carvings on the steps leads to the upper stories with personal treasures of the Gondi family. A terrace garden on the top floor provides privileged rooftop views of the Duomo and the central city.
Lunch:
At Palazzo Gondi, we will be treated to a tasting of regional Tuscan wines from the family’s own vineyards, each specially paired with a light appetizer.
Afternoon:
We will walk to Palazzo Vecchio. Still used as the city hall of Florence, the famous Palazzo Vecchio, built in 1299, became Duke Cosimo de’ Medici’s palace and was highly renovated by Giorgio Vasari in the 17th century. Following a specially set itinerary thanks to private admittance, we will allow with our professor and a museum expert through the palace, to peep into rooms where the Grand Duke and his family lived, kept treasures, met spies and showed their power. Francesco I’s ‘Studiolo’, or study room, Eleonora and Bianca Cappello’s room overlooking the huge hall of the palace, and Giorgio Vasari’s amazing construction of Palazzi Vecchio’s wooden ceilings are only a few of the surprises one can experience inside the political heart of Florence. We will return to the hotel by minivan.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. We’ll share some of our favorite experiences from the program with fellow Road Scholars.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off minivan. Walking about 1.5 miles on cobblestone streets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Free Time.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
By minivan, we’ll travel to the Torrigiani Gardens, the largest private garden inside any European city hidden in the heart of Florence. Starting in the 16th century as a famed botanical garden, it was expanded in the 19th century into an English-style romantic park. The gracious Marchese Torrigiani will lead us walk through this enchanting landscape, pointing out the characteristic features of the Roman gardens. By minivan, we’ll travel to San Miniato al Monte to visit the church, and enjoy the view of Florence. We’ll then return to the hotel by minivan.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.Be sure to prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See the travel information section regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel depending on departure time. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
16 Meals
8 Breakfasts
5 Lunches
3 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Low Salt, Low Fat, Vegetarian, Gluten Free
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Apr 21, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
  • Apr 21, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
  • Feb 03, 2025 - Feb 12, 2025
  • Mar 24, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025
  • Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025
  • Apr 21, 2025 - Apr 30, 2025
  • May 05, 2025 - May 14, 2025
  • Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 10, 2025
  • Sep 15, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025
  • Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
  • Oct 06, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
  • Oct 20, 2025 - Oct 29, 2025
  • Nov 03, 2025 - Nov 12, 2025
  • Dec 01, 2025 - Dec 10, 2025
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
8 nights
Location: Firenze
Located in the heart of Florence near the San Lorenzo Central Market, Glance Hotel is housed in a building designed by renowned architect Italo Gamberini in the early 1950s. The name Glance refers to the attention to detail that makes the building so special. On each floor, space is given over to an iconic reworking of one of Florence’s most famous Renaissance sculptures. Details from Michelangelo’s David, Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabines, Ammannati’s Neptune, and Baccio Bandinelli’s Hercules and Cacus are therefore reproduced on entire walls, as the main themes of a narrative which is contemporary while also paying tribute to Florence’s artistic and historical heritage.
Participant Reviews
4.96
Based on 30 Reviews
Sort By:
Charles | Silverton, OR
If you didn't get enough art history in your life, this program will suffice; and Florence will fill your mind with wonder.
— Review left October 25, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
Roberta – Class of 2023 | Bristol, RI
The emphasis on art and architecture in this Florence program gave the perfect introduction to the city and its history, and to the role that the city and its artists, politicians, and civic and religious leaders played during the Renaissance and beyond. The art historians were excellent, providing insights far beyond what we might have expected.
— Review left October 12, 2024
Rosana | McAllen, TX
Highly recommend Road Scholar for your next trip. My trip to Italy was Amazing and unforgetable! I Love it!
— Review left May 16, 2024
Lisa – Class of 2022 | GOLDEN, CO
Road Scholar provides the perfect combination of teaching and enjoyment in their selection of guides, lecturers, sites, and lodging. I brag about my trips with them.
— Review left May 4, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
Vida – Class of 2018 | New York, NY
I'll start with the positives: The entire city of Florence is a treasure! Those with an added interest in seeing and learning more about Medieval and Renaissance art will be rewarded! The Glance Hotel was well situated ( although on a highly trafficked commercial street) with an easy walk to most sites. The staff was friendly and accommodating; the varied breakfast buffet was excellent; very clean rooms, modern decor. The negatives: The tour leader, Patrizia, did not exhibit good management skills overseeing her guides. Yes, she kept us on a timely scheduled but did the minimum in keeping track of the exhaustive detailed material the two guides were covering. There was so much overlap - duplicated facts and background information we had previously heard from one or the other. And way too much obscure info -- guides gently needed to be reminded that we were not a group of art/cultural historian scholars!! Giovanni was an excellent local guide, but Mario repeated himself, spent much precious time talking about the 1966 flood in Florence and in promoting his book. There were too many churches, (cold, drafty interiors) on the daily schedule, with fewer opportunities for visiting museums - some of us were disappointed that we hadn't be given adequate advance warning to buy online tickets for The Accademia. Nor were we properly alerted as to the opening/closing days of other art museums and collections. It would have been highly desirable to include a day trip to some of the Tuscan villages surrounding Florence. I certainly hope that Road Scholar makes some suggested changes as overall, believe me, this is a great tour worthy of 5 stars!
— Review left April 7, 2024
Reply from Road Scholar
Dear Vida, Florence really is a treasure and we hope you were able to create some wonderful memories during your travels. We appreciate the impact a leader can have on an adventure and are always looking for ways to improve. Patrizia is a seasoned group leader and has received positive feedback from past participants, however, we have passed along your comments regarding your experience in addition to the feedback about the itinerary and lectures. This will be reviewed and considered. We look forward to seeing you on your next adventure soon. Sincerely, Road Scholar
Terri | Laguna Woods, CA
Excellent immersion in art and history of early Renaissance in Florence. 5 stars
— Review left March 31, 2024
Jayne – Class of 2023 | Laramie, WY
The Hidden Treasures of Florence met and exceeded our every expectation.
— Review left March 28, 2024
Ralph – Class of 2005 | Bodega Bay, CA
Florence is one of the world’s destination tourist cities. This February tour avoids the crowded masses of summer.
— Review left March 10, 2024
Mary – Class of 2023 | Alexandria, VA
This program is so worthwhile even if you have visited Florence before! Great experiences and education!
— Review left December 1, 2023
Annie | Salem, OR
Road Scholar went far beyond my expectations in providing a welcoming atmosphere with highly competent and personable instructors who were immersed in and passionate about their subject matter. Our guide was excellent and the accommodations and meals were first class. This was the experience of a lifetime!!
— Review left November 14, 2023
Joellen – Class of 2012 | Kalamazoo, MI
As a participant who has done 18 programs, this is among the very best! A wonderful hotel in a city filled with opportunities to learn.
— Review left November 1, 2023
Sue – Class of 2001 | Highland Heights, OH
Florence is a glorious place to visit. If you love Italian Renaissance art and architecture, this is the trip for you. Incomparable learning experience.
— Review left October 26, 2023
Greg – Class of 2023 | Red Feather Lakes, CO
I don't have time to write it again, but feel free to select any parts of my glowing assessment of the program and share it publicly.
— Review left October 7, 2023
Robbi – Class of 2022 | Durham, NC
This tour was somewhat disappointing. The tour leader, Patrizia, was very weak and did not have good leadership abilities. Giovanni was an excellent local guide, but Mario overloaded with information and became easily distracted. There were too many churches on the agenda, with fewer opportunities for visiting museums. The visit to the Uffizi Gallery focused on the floor with the religious images and did not include the floor with the beautiful Renaissance portraits (which I saw by going to the Gallery before the start of the tour). It was also be more interesting to include a day trip to some of the Tuscan villages surrounding Florence. The Glance Hotel was excellent: quiet, clean, friendly staff, wonderful breakfasts. If Road Scholar made some of the changes suggested, this could be a great tour!
— Review left June 1, 2023
Dana – Class of 2022 | Alexandria, VA
Absolutely fabulous!!! The hotel was within walking distance of just about everything we did. Plenty of free time and evenings to explore on your own. Rained every single day we were there except one, but who cares?! It's Florence! The TL, Patrizia, was fabulous as were both lecturers/experts, Mario and Giovanni. Everything was well planned and executed.
— Review left May 18, 2023
This participant did not give a star rating.
Susan – Class of 2015 | Durham, NC
An utterly absorbing visit to the art and architecture of Florence. All tour leaders were very knowledgeable and inclusive.
— Review left April 5, 2023
Beverly – Class of 2019 | Saint Paul, MN
This program was well organized and very informative. I learned so much from the program instructors.
— Review left March 5, 2023
Lisa – Class of 2014 | Burlingame, CA
Hidden Florence was a fabulous tour! Because it is a deep dive into Renaissance art and architecture, we had one of two art historians with us at each sight and this made all the difference in the world. For a lover of art and history, it doesn't get any better than this tour.
— Review left October 27, 2022
Lawrence – Class of 2013 | ny, NY
This program is very special. By the program's conclusion you will have a new appreciation for Renaissance art and history in Florence. Don't be surprised if at the program's end you feel as if you've lived in 15th and early 16th century Firenze.
— Review left October 13, 2022
Madge – Class of 2018 | South Bend, IN
It's a good website, but does not give users the option of confirming changes in travel plans - just a continued stream of "please review your itinerary and travel plans" messages. That needs to be changed.
— Review left May 21, 2022
This participant did not give a star rating.
Paul – Class of 2019 | Sanibel, FL
This somewhat deep dive in Florence is the way to experience and enjoy the art capital of the world.
— Review left April 30, 2022
Pamela – Class of 2022 | Santa Fe, NM
This program was a wonderful experience and I definitely would recommend it. I loved how Road Scholar took care of everything, even scheduling covid tests before going home and Julie, the guide, was at the pharmacy to help out if needed. The instructors were very knowledgeable and taught the information in a very understandable way. We were on the go mornings and afternoons with very little free time for other activities.(For example, not enough time to stop in a gift shop after visiting a museum). I felt that I was ready for all the walking and standing but I was surprised at how difficult it was. I purchased a cane to help with the uneven cobblestones and worn down steps. Two people in our small group got injured on the steps (not Road Scholar's fault)-one had to use a wheel chair after and Florence is not handicap friendly, and one left since he had a broken shoulder. Julie took great care of these individuals, accommodating them. This is just to let you know it's quite rugged. My favorite part was the restoration school. It was very interesting and we saw their work in action at the Uffizi after we knew what to look for in the paintings. I felt we didn't need to purchase all the books suggested. Make sure you know the Medici line and it will help you with the time lines. Yes, I would recommend this program if you love art history and want to spend time in a gorgeous city.
— Review left April 17, 2022
Laura – Class of 2011 | Bellingham, WA
This was an excellent program led by a kind, caring Group Leader and simply marvelous, intellectually outstanding instructors, who, in the brief time we were together did an excellent job of explaining the Renaissance in Florence. Such an excellent program should be expanded by a few days!
— Review left April 17, 2022
John – Class of 2018 | Bowling Green, OH
What a great program. For someone who wants to learn about the art history of the Renaissance, this is the cat's meow!
— Review left November 1, 2021
Toni – Class of 2020 | Reisterstown, MD
This was my first Road Scholar trip and I am already planning my second. The trip to Florence was wonderful. I have never seen such beautiful art and learned a lot about the city, the artists and Italy. We got to see many places the average tourist can't visit, which was fascinating. Delicious food, great fellow travelers and experienced staff made my week unforgettable.
— Review left March 12, 2020
Sarah – Class of 2019 | Aledo, IL
This program was a great introduction to the beautiful architecture and art of Florence. I traveled as a single person and everyone was so friendly in this group.
— Review left March 6, 2020
Frances – Class of 2015 | Atlanta, GA
Wonderful trip for returning visitors to Florence. It is a city that has new and old sites around every corner!
— Review left June 16, 2019
Sharon – Class of 2017 | Sherman Oaks, CA
We enjoyed our tour in Florence enormously. The itinerary provided us with a generous overview of Florence's treasures plus time to explore on our own. In addition to the well-known sites, we especially appreciated the visits to Pallazzo Gondi, Torrigiani Garden,and to the School of Restoration. They are treasures in their own right. Patrizia (our leader), and our two "experts", Mario and Giovanni, brought their expertise, passion and engaging personalities to the tour. We appreciated their commitment to share their love of Florence. Sharon and Rick
— Review left May 14, 2019
This participant did not give a star rating.
Mignon | New York, NY
What better place to be than in Florence? Despite the crowds I would return as soon as possible..
— Review left May 5, 2019
This participant did not give a star rating.
Irina – Class of 2019 | Rockville, MD
If you like the art, Italy and would like to know more about Renaissance, - this trip is for you.
— Review left April 19, 2019





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