Independent Florence: From Medieval to Modern Culture

After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation session. 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. Educational content will be provided by local experts. We will get around the city on foot unless indicated differently. Road Scholars will receive a "Firenzecard" — the official museum pass of the city — included in the program cost. It provides admission 80+ museums in Florence and is valid for the duration of our program. Except for breakfast, meals will be plated (each dish served to guests by a waitstaff) from a set menu unless specified otherwise. Water is included with all meals, and other beverages, including wine, tea, and coffee, will be available for purchase unless specified otherwise. 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. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. We will alert you as quickly as possible in the event of changes. Thank you for your understanding. Next, we will set out on a neighborhood walk to locate ATMs, pharmacies, grocery stores, restaurants, etc. Returning to the hotel, we’ll gather for a Welcome Reception to mingle with our Group Leader and fellow Road Scholars.

At a local restaurant.

At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead. This is a Road Scholar Independent program. It is designed for participants who want high-level Road Scholar instruction, a few group activities, and who are capable and comfortable setting out on their own for a significant part of the day/night. There will be several hours each day of educational content. Most meals will be on your own (excluded from the program cost) to have what you like, and there will be substantial free time for personal independent exploration. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

At the hotel.

We begin our day in Florence with an enlightening walk through the city's historic streets, along with our knowledgeable Study Leader. As you stroll through the charming narrow streets and past iconic landmarks, immerse yourself in Florence's rich history and cultural heritage. Marvel at the architectural wonders of the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria while our Study Leader provides fascinating insights into their significance and historical context. Following the invigorating walk, embark on a Group Leader-led visit to the Mercato Centrale, Florence's bustling central market. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this culinary hub as you wander through rows of stalls brimming with fresh produce, local delicacies, and artisanal products. Engage with passionate vendors and sample authentic Tuscan flavors, from fragrant herbs and spices to aged cheeses and cured meats. Enjoy the opportunity to learn about traditional ingredients and cooking techniques, gaining insights into the culinary traditions that have shaped Tuscan cuisine for centuries.

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.

Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration. We highly recommend utilizing the Firenzecard to immerse yourself in the captivating Palazzo Vecchio, nestled in the heart of medieval Florence. Dating back to its construction in 1299, this architectural gem still functions as a vital center for local Florentine and Tuscan governments, making it a vibrant hub of civic activity. Inside its walls, you will discover a treasure trove of historical artifacts and masterful artworks, offering a glimpse into the city's rich heritage. For those seeking an extra dose of adventure, consider embarking on the exhilarating climb up the 233 steps of the Palazzo Vecchio tower, soaring 311 feet into the sky. This impressive ascent will reward you with awe-inspiring panoramic vistas of Florence, where the enchanting cityscape unfolds. From the summit, you can marvel at the iconic landmarks, terracotta rooftops, and breathtaking landscapes that make Florence genuinely magical. We will gather in the hotel meeting room for a presentation by a local expert on medieval Florence. We’ll learn of the Roman origins of the city and how, by the end of the 15th century, the Medici family had established a powerful dynasty and went on to rule Florence, transforming it into a cradle of the Renaissance. The Medici rebuilt large areas of the city in Renaissance style; became patrons of the humanities, arts, and science; and collected art treasures.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

We will convene in the hotel's meeting room, where an esteemed art historian will join us. This expert will provide a captivating overview of medieval and Renaissance art, preparing us for our upcoming field trip to the renowned Uffizi Gallery. We will walk to the Accademia for a lecture on one of the most famous statues in the world, Michelangelo's David. The David stands as an enduring masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture and one of the world's most iconic works of art. Housed within the Galleria dell'Accademia, this awe-inspiring statue mesmerizes visitors with its exceptional craftsmanship and powerful depiction of the biblical figure. Carved by Michelangelo from a single block of marble between 1501 and 1504, David stands tall at over 17 feet and captivates viewers with its remarkable level of detail and lifelike representation. From the intricate musculature to the intense gaze and the poised stance, David embodies the physical and spiritual strength that epitomized the Renaissance era. Beyond the David, we can explore an impressive collection of Renaissance artworks, including sculptures, paintings, and musical instruments. The museum also houses Michelangelo's unfinished sculptures, known as the Prisoners, which provide valuable insights into the artist's creative process. It has been suggested that Michelangelo left them in their incomplete state to symbolize the struggle of humankind to free the spirit from matter. Kindly note that the significant volume of visitors may present difficulties in obtaining an unobstructed view of the most renowned works; anticipate encountering crowded conditions during our visit.

On your own to sample the local fare.

Free time. Take this opportunity to see and do what interests each of us most. We recommend utilizing the Firenzecard to discover the Museum of San Marco, renowned for its remarkable collection of paintings by Fra' Angelico (1395-1455), a prominent artist of the early Renaissance who adorned extensive parts of the convent with his frescoes. Please take a moment to soak in the serene atmosphere as you stroll through the cloister, immersing yourself in its tranquility. Nearby, you'll find the Ospedale degli Innocenti, Florence's original foundling hospital, which houses a poignant museum filled with artifacts from the building's past, Renaissance artworks, and informative exhibits about its present-day function as the UNICEF Office of Research. Don't miss the captivating outer façade showcasing Brunellescian architecture, adorned with ceramic rondelles crafted by the renowned della Robbia workshop. As the afternoon unfolds, we cap off the day with an expert-led wine-tasting experience at a charming "enoteca" or wine bar near the vibrant Piazza del Duomo. Savor the flavors of exquisite Tuscan wines while gaining insights from our knowledgeable host, who will enhance your appreciation for the region's renowned wine-making traditions.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

We will assemble in the cozy confines of the hotel meeting room for an enriching lecture on Renaissance art, setting the stage for our upcoming exploration of the renowned Gallerie degli Uffizi. Led by our knowledgeable art historian, we delve into the captivating world of Renaissance masterpieces, tracing the evolution of artistic techniques, themes, and styles that defined this pivotal period in European art history. From the revolutionary works of Giotto and Masaccio to the sublime creations of Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Raphael, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and profound symbolism of Renaissance paintings, sculptures, and architecture.

On your own to sample the local fare.

Free time for independent exploration. We suggest using the Firenzecard to explore Palazzo Pitti, a large museum complex housing several important collections of paintings, sculptures, porcelain, furniture, costumes, jewelry, and objects. Its Boboli Gardens are one of the most famous of all Italian gardens. The Renaissance-style Palazzo dates from the mid-15th century. In the mid-16th century, the Medici acquired the palace, after which it was the residence of the Grand Dukes of Tuscany for almost four centuries. After the unification of Italy, it became the royal palace until 1919, when King Vittorio Emanuele III donated the palace and its precious collections to the Italian people. The Palazzo Medici-Riccardi, a palatial home commissioned by Cosimo de' Medici in 1444, is centrally located on via Cavour. Admire the Renaissance-style inner courtyard and cloister and Benozzo Gozzoli's Chapel of the Magi with stunningly detailed frescoes of nature and brocade dress of the time. There is also a collection of late Baroque art. In the late afternoon, we'll gather at a local bar for a satisfying drink and an engaging chat with the Group Leader. It's a perfect opportunity to unwind, share stories, and foster camaraderie with your fellow Road Scholars.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

We will walk to the reserved entrance of the Galleria degli Uffizi for our self-directed field trip, where we are free to venture through the museum at our own pace, and explore according to our individual interests. Renowned as the most extensive collection of Renaissance art worldwide, the Uffizi showcases a remarkable journey through various artistic periods, from Gothic to medieval, Renaissance to Mannerist, encompassing painting, architecture, and sculpture. Within its hallowed halls, we will encounter a multitude of iconic masterpieces, including Leonardo da Vinci's mesmerizing Annunciation, Botticelli's ethereal Birth of Venus and enchanting Primavera, captivating works by Titian, Michelangelo's poignant Holy Family, as well as a selection of Caravaggios and Artemisia Gentileschi's compelling artworks. It is worth noting that a coffee bar awaits us at the end of the second corridor, atop the Loggia. Here, we can relish a moment of refreshment while marveling at the splendid view of the Palazzo Vecchio and the magnificent Duomo. This provides an ideal opportunity to rejuvenate, sip a delightful beverage, and enjoy a well-deserved rest amidst the artistic wonders that surround us. Kindly note that the significant volume of visitors may present difficulties in obtaining an unobstructed view of the most renowned works; anticipate encountering crowded conditions during our visit.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Free time for independent exploration. We suggest using the Firenzecard to explore the Museo Galileo, where you can marvel at astrolabes, globes, and scientific instruments that date back centuries. The collection boasts a remarkable highlight: the very telescope Galileo Galilei (1564-1642) employed to observe the celestial wonders above. Detailed storyboards accompany the exhibits, providing captivating narratives and explanations of the objects' functions and significance. Conveniently nearby is the Basilica of Santa Croce, a magnificent Franciscan church renowned for its funerary monuments dedicated to Italy's esteemed artists and writers. Within its walls, you can discover awe-inspiring artworks by renowned masters such as Cimabue, Giotto, Filippo Brunelleschi, Donatello, Vasari, Ghiberti, della Robbia, and many more. The Basilica of Santa Croce offers a remarkable blend of artistic treasures and historic reverence that will captivate your senses.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

We will gather in the hotel lobby as we meet to walk together to the Chiesa di Santa Monaca. Embark on a journey through the enchanting world of Italian opera as professional singers grace the stage with stirring performances of beloved arias. Set within the timeless splendor of a 15th-century church, immerse yourself in iconic operas' captivating melodies and emotive storytelling.

At the hotel.

We will walk to Florence's most renowned landmark, officially named the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore but affectionately known as the Duomo for a visit led by a museum docent. Designed by the brilliant Filippo Brunelleschi (1377-1444) and completed in 1434, the magnificent dome was a remarkable feat of innovation during its time, leaving a lasting impression as one of the crowning achievements of the era. In addition to our exploration of the Duomo itself, we will have the privilege of delving into the Duomo Museum, recently reopened after undergoing a comprehensive renovation and modernization. Within this captivating space, we will encounter a treasure trove of artistic brilliance, with over 750 works of art spanning more than seven centuries of history. The museum's extensive collection showcases a captivating array of medieval and Renaissance statues and reliefs meticulously crafted from marble, bronze, and silver by the celebrated artists of their time. Kindly note that the significant volume of visitors may present difficulties in obtaining an unobstructed view of the most renowned works; anticipate encountering crowded conditions during our visit. Please be aware that, due to an extensive restoration project, the mosaics within the Florence Baptistery may not be accessible for viewing during our visit.

On your own to sample the local cuisine.

Free time for independent exploration. We recommend utilizing your Firenzecard to discover the magnificent Basilica of San Lorenzo, a stunning 15th-century church meticulously designed by the renowned architect Filippo Brunelleschi. This basilica holds special significance as the family church of the influential Medici family. Adjacent to the basilica, you'll find the Medici chapels, which house the private tombs of notable Medici family members. These chapels showcase exceptional architecture and sculptures created by the masterful hands of Michelangelo.

At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

At the hotel. For those with early departures, the hotel will prepare a bag breakfast to take. This concludes our program.

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 rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!