Feb 16 - Apr 1, 2025
Italy
Living and Learning in Siena: Independent Stay and Language Study
Program No. 2453660MEADV-1116-60
Live like a local in Siena, Italy! Stay in an apartment and take local language classes while experiencing the culture, people and history of this region of Tuscany.
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We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Learn more
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.
Feb 16 - Apr 1, 2025
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Apr 6 - May 20, 2025Filling Fast!
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
45 days
44 nights
19 meals
5B 8L 6D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
7
Free Day
Siena
8
Free Day
Siena
10
Free Day
Siena
12
Free Day
Siena
13
Free Day, Aperitif
Siena
21
Free Day
Siena
22
Free Day
Siena
At a Glance
If you have always dreamed of living in Tuscany, experience the very best of this Italian region as you live like a local in Siena! Located one hour from Florence, Siena is central to Tuscany while maintaining a small-town feel. Take in its medieval architecture and pedestrian-dedicated streets as you get an apartment and live like a true Siener for six weeks. Attend daily language classes to improve your conversational Italian, and use these skills as you navigate local markets, public transportation and museums. Join your fellow Road Scholars for lectures, occasional happy hours and meals, and embark on field trips to learn about local vineyards, olive oil mills, cheese factories and more. Become immersed in Tuscan cuisine, culture and way of life during this unforgettable living abroad experience!
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Get around the city on foot and via public transit daily; you’re likely to walk at least a mile or two per day. On field trips, walking up to two miles with some uneven terrain and stairs. Activity level is based on included program elements only.
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…
- Attend Italian language classes that will enhance your conversational skills and ability to navigate through daily life in Siena.
- Enjoy lectures that deepen your understanding of local life and culture on topics from local history to the art of Michelangelo.
- Embark on field trips to the medieval towns of Lucca and Pietrasanta, visit an olive oil mill in Gaiole in Chianti, and enjoy a cheese tasting in Poder il Casale and a wine tasting in Montalcino.
General Notes
Our “Living and Learning” programs give you the experience of living in a foreign country independently. Included: an apartment; a local, full-time Group Leader to support you; a few meals; 22 language classes; a weekly expert-led field trip; a weekly cafe social; weekend excursions to Florence, Lucca, Pietrasanta, Pienza, Montalcino, Perugia and Arezzo including hotel accommodations; a city handbook and public transit pass. Due to the special nature of this program, we regret that we are unable to match solo participants with roommates. One date of this program coincides with the “Palio di Siena.” This historic tradition dates back to 1633 and is a competition among the city’s districts. The event on July 2nd is rich in history and pageantry.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
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.
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.
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.
Erika Cennini
View biography
Erika Cennini has worked in travel since she graduated. In addition to being a Club Med children’s animator, she has been a hotel receptionist, travel agent in Paris where she lived for ten years, an exploration manager around her beloved Italy, a local expert in her native Tuscany, a hiking leader just for fun, and a teacher for Italian students. Erika likes to travel as much as she can and. when working, enriches herself with the stories of people she welcomes in Italy.
Suggested Reading List
(7 books)
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.
Living and Learning in Siena: Independent Stay and Language Study
Program Number: 24536
A day in Tuscany: more confessions of a chianti tour guide
Living in Tuscany
Under the Siena sun
Catherine of Siena: a life of passion and purpose
Living the Palio: a story of community and public life in Siena, Italy
Siena and the Sienese in the thirteenth century
Living in Tuscany
Program
At a Glance
Duration
45 days
Program Begins
Siena
Program Concludes
Siena
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
19
| 5B |
8L |
6D |
Activity Level
If you have always dreamed of living in Tuscany, experience the very best of this Italian region as you live like a local in Siena! Located one hour from Florence, Siena is central to Tuscany while maintaining a small-town feel. Take in its medieval architecture and pedestrian-dedicated streets as you get an apartment and live like a true Siener for six weeks. Attend daily language classes to improve your conversational Italian, and use these skills as you navigate local markets, public transportation and museums. Join your fellow Road Scholars for lectures, occasional happy hours and meals, and embark on field trips to learn about local vineyards, olive oil mills, cheese factories and more. Become immersed in Tuscan cuisine, culture and way of life during this unforgettable living abroad experience!)
Best of all, you'll...
- Attend Italian language classes that will enhance your conversational skills and ability to navigate through daily life in Siena.
- Enjoy lectures that deepen your understanding of local life and culture on topics from local history to the art of Michelangelo.
- Embark on field trips to the medieval towns of Lucca and Pietrasanta, visit an olive oil mill in Gaiole in Chianti, and enjoy a cheese tasting in Poder il Casale and a wine tasting in Montalcino.
General Notes
Our “Living and Learning” programs give you the experience of living in a foreign country independently. Included: an apartment; a local, full-time Group Leader to support you; a few meals; 22 language classes; a weekly expert-led field trip; a weekly cafe social; weekend excursions to Florence, Lucca, Pietrasanta, Pienza, Montalcino, Perugia and Arezzo including hotel accommodations; a city handbook and public transit pass. Due to the special nature of this program, we regret that we are unable to match solo participants with roommates. One date of this program coincides with the “Palio di Siena.” This historic tradition dates back to 1633 and is a competition among the city’s districts. The event on July 2nd is rich in history and pageantry.
Featured Expert
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
Erika Cennini
Erika Cennini has worked in travel since she graduated. In addition to being a Club Med children’s animator, she has been a hotel receptionist, travel agent in Paris where she lived for ten years, an exploration manager around her beloved Italy, a local expert in her native Tuscany, a hiking leader just for fun, and a teacher for Italian students. Erika likes to travel as much as she can and. when working, enriches herself with the stories of people she welcomes in Italy.
Activity Level
Let's Go!
Get around the city on foot and via public transit daily; you’re likely to walk at least a mile or two per day. On field trips, walking up to two miles with some uneven terrain and stairs. Activity level is based on included program elements only.
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
(7 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
Year
- 2025
Date
- Feb 16 - Apr 01
- Apr 06 - May 20
- May 25 - Jul 08
- Sep 14 - Oct 28
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Please Note: The program differs on certain dates.
Select trip year and date
- 2025
- Feb 16 - Apr 01
- Apr 06 - May 20
- May 25 - Jul 08
- Sep 14 - Oct 28
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
45 days
44 nights
What's Included
19 meals | 5B | 8L | 6D |
31 expert-led lectures
17 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
43 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Siena, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Siena
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel Athena
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation session. Orientation: 6:00 p.m. 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 a local expert and our knowledgeable Group Leader. Program-related travel will be primarily via motorcoach — requiring ascending and descending a few steps — unless specified otherwise. Meals will feature local cuisine and will include wine, coffee, and water with other beverages available for purchase. Periods in the daily 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. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Lecture, Historic Siena Walk, Local Cafe'
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Athena
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles in about 1 hour; even and uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will be joined at the hotel by a local expert who will give us a lecture on Siena and Palazzo Pubblico. We will set out on a walking field trip with our Group Leader to explore the historic center of Siena. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siena is famous for its monuments, palaces, museums, and art. We’ll learn about Siena’s long history, dating back to the ancient Etruscans, and we will be immerged in the town's Medieval architecture. Siena has an interesting connection to Rome; according to legend, Siena was founded by Senio and Aschio, who are descendants of the brothers — Romulus and Remus — who founded Rome.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue exploring the streets of Siena with our Group Leader. During our field trip of the city, we will stop at Pasticceria Nannini to taste a variety of cookies, such as traditional siennese Ricciarelli (almond cookies). The recipe for these traditional Italian cookies dates back to the 14th century.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Lectures, Siena Districts (Contrade)
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Athena
Activity Note
Walking about 2 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll set out on a walking field trip with our Group Leader to explore the Contrada Priora della Civetta (The Civetta Contrada) and its museum (Museo Contrada Priora della Civetta). The Group Leader will give an on-site lecture with the people of the contrada.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue our walking field trip with our Group Leader, and enjoy an on-site lecture on Valdimontone Contrada. We will then visit the charming Basilica di Santa Maria dei Servi. We will admire works by Coppo di Marovaldo, famous for the Madonna and Child.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
Lecture, Orientation & Overview of Siena, Residence
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off taxis. Walking about 1 mile throughout the day; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
At the hotel, we will be joined by a local expert who will give us a lecture on the foreign travelers on the grand tour: the itineraries, the seasons, and the motivations of a tour through Italy. The most famous places of Siena visited by celebrated European and American travelers and writers. We will check out from the hotel. The Group Leader will acquaint us with the local bakery, cleaners, market, drugstore, and all of the other services needed for our time in Siena. The Group Leader will hand out train and bus timetables and also discuss how to create a connection with the local community by pursuing a personal interest or hobby during our stay.
Lunch:
At the hotel.
Afternoon:
We will board taxis and transfer to the residence where we will check in. Free time.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
The University for Foreigners of Siena
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
We will take public transportation with our Group Leader to practice the route to the University for Foreigners of Siena. The University aims to promote the study of Italian language, culture and society through its connection with the cultural history and the centuries-old Italian heritage. The participants can take advantage of the most modern technologies available for language teaching, and audiovisual and IT resources. At the end of the course, the participants can understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type. They can introduce him/herself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details. They can interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly and is prepared to help.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Free Day
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Free Day
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Free Day, Confraternita di Misericordia, Aperitif
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 3 miles, less than 1/2 hour. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
In the late afternoon, we will meet our Group Leader and visit the Confraternita di Misericordia, the local assistance confraternity whose volunteers help every day the community. We will then enjoy an aperitif and snacks at a local bar.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
Free Day
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Local Market, Cooking Lesson
Location:
Siena
Meals:
L
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 2 miles, less than 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1.5 miles, approximately 1 hour; generally flat and downhill terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
We will walk and visit the local market with our Group Leader for and authentic experience of how people from Siena go food shopping in preparation for cooking. We will walk to the “Scuola di Cucina di Lella” for a cooking lesson. With an expert chef, we’ll prepare some local specialties.
Lunch:
At the cooking school, we will enjoy the results of our cooking lesson.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Free Day
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
Free Day, Aperitif
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 3 miles, approximately 1/2 hour. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free Time
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time. In the late afternoon, we will meet our Group Leader at a local cafe' for an aperitif and snacks. Share your experiences with new Road Scholar friends.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for transfer in the morning. Remember to pack a small bag with a change of clothes and toiletries to take with you for our 1-day adventure in Florence. We can leave the rest of our belongings at the Residence in Siena. Remember to bring your listening device.
Day
14
To Florence, Lecture, The Duomo, Uffizi Gallery
Location:
Florence
Meals:
D
Stay:
Grand Hotel Mediterraneo Firenze
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 40 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking about 3 miles; approximately 3 hours on even terrain.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
We will board our private motorcoach and transfer to the hotel in Florence. We will check-in after dinner. At the hotel, we will be joined by a local expert who will give us an on-site lecture on Michelangelo and his genius and relationship with the town of Florence. We will set out on a walking field trip with our Group Leader to explore the Uffizi Gallery. We’ll observe the gallery and see works by Cimabue, Giotto, Masaccio, Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli, and Titian.
Lunch:
On your own in Florence. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
We will continue our walking field trip with our local expert and Group Leader to the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (The Florence Cathedral). Commonly known as The Duomo, this elaborate cathedral was constructed from 1296 to 1436 with help from three different designers. With our local expert and Group Leader, we’ll observe the impressive gothic architecture and learn about its construction. Before dinner we will enjoy some free time.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
We will return to the hotel and check in. Prepare for transfer in the morning.
Day
15
Lucca, Pietrasanta, To Siena
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 178 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestone paths.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will board our motorcoach and transfer to Siena. We will stop en route to Lucca. We will embark on an expert-led walking field trip of the town. We’ll observe its intact Renaissance-era city walls. We’ll learn about this town’s impressive architectural legacy, from before the Roman Empire to the Renaissance period.
Lunch:
On your own in Lucca. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
We will ride to Pietrasanta. We’ll set out an expert-led walking field trip to explore the village. Pietrasanta is an international bohemian haven for artists and art lovers and is better known as the “Little Athens” or the “town of artists.” We’ll learn about the village’s history and observe artwork. We will then complete our transfer to Siena.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
16
The University for Foreigners of Siena, Placement Test
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
At the university, we will take a written and oral placement test in order to define our linguistic level. We'll attend the first course according to the standards of CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages).
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
17
1st Italian Language Course
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
1st language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
18
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
19
Italian Language Class, Aperitif, Concert
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, less than 1/2 hour. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time. In the late afternoon, we will meet our Group Leader at a local cafe' for an aperitif and snacks. Share your experiences with new Road Scholar friends.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
We will meet our Group Leader in the city center to attend a concert. Our program was planned far in advance when details of performances were not available. When confirmed, the information will be posted on the Road Scholar website under this program number and will also be included in preparatory materials sent following enrollment. You may want to bring one nice outfit for the concert.
Day
20
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
21
Free Day
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
22
Free Day
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
23
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
24
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
25
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
26
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
27
Italian Language Class, Aperitif
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, less than 1/2 hour. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time. In the late afternoon, we will meet our Group Leader at a local cafe' for an aperitif and snacks. Share your experiences with your Road Scholar friends.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
28
Olive Oil Mill and Winery, Lecture, Certosa di Pontignano
Location:
Siena
Meals:
L
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 30 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time throughout the day. Walking about 2 miles throughout the day; uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach and ride to a local olive oil mill and winery. We’ll learn about the production of olive oil from the estate expert.
Lunch:
At the winery.
Afternoon:
We will then ride to the Certosa di Pontignano. With our Group Leader and the local expert, we’ll visit an old charming monastery, now the most important academic and congress center of the University of Siena. We will return to Siena after our field trip.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
29
Pienza, Winery, Montalcino
Location:
Siena
Meals:
L
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 80 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles throughout the day; uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach and ride to a local cheese factory and learn about the production of pecorino cheese. We will then ride to Pienza. We’ll set out on a walking field trip with our Group Leader to explore this charming village. Designed in 1405 by Renaissance humanist Aeneas Silvius Piccolomini, it was built as an ideal Renaissance town and was the first example of humanist urban planning concepts. We will then ride to a local winery and learn about the tradition of the Tuscan wines.
Lunch:
At a local winery.
Afternoon:
We will ride to Montalcino with our Group Leader. On arrival, we’ll set out on a walking field trip to explore and learn about this historic town. The hamlet has remained almost intact since the 16th century. It’s famous for its production of Brunello wine and its rich art and culture. The historic center is dominated by the mighty fortress, built in 1361 to mark the end of its independence as it was absorbed into the larger city of Siena. We’ll walk along the fortress wall and take in the breathtaking panorama. We will return to Siena.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
30
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
31
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
32
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
33
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, less than 1/2 hour. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
34
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
35
Free Day
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice. Getting on/off a motorcoach.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
36
Free Day
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
37
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
38
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
39
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
40
Italian Language Class
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, approximately 1/2 hour throughout the day. Walking about 1 mile; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
41
Italian Language Class, Aperitif
Location:
Siena
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; traveling about 5 miles, less than 1/2 hour. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day; generally flat terrain. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Language class.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time. In the late afternoon, we will meet our Group Leader at a local cafe' for an aperitif and snacks. Share your experiences with your Road Scholar friends.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for transfer in the morning. Remember to pack a small bag with a change of clothes and toiletries to take with you for our 1 day adventure in Anghiari. We can leave the rest of our belongings at the Residence in Siena. Remember to bring your listening device.
Day
42
To Anghiari, Perugia, Lecture, Solomeo Hamlet
Location:
Anghiari (AR)
Meals:
L
Stay:
Hotel La Meridiana
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 140 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles throughout the day; even and uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
We will board a motorcoach and transfer to Anghiari. We will stop en route to Perugia. Built in the medieval period, this town is rich with historic buildings and architecture. We will set off to explore the town with local expert.
Lunch:
At a local family house restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will ride to the Solomeo Hamlet and enjoy an on-site lecture on Brunello Cucinelli, the philosopher of cashmere by our Group Leader. This medieval hamlet is also known as Hamlet of the Spirit. Italian designer and entrepreneur Brunello Cucinelli has invested millions of dollars into restoring and preserving this medieval village. With our Group Leader, we’ll set out on a walking field trip to explore the historic village and learn about Cucinelli’s life and mission. We will then complete our transfer to Anghiari and check into our next hotel.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
43
Arezzo, Lecture, To Siena
Location:
Siena
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 75 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time throughout the day. Walking about 2 miles throughout the day; even and uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we will board our motorcoach and transfer to Siena. We will stop en route at Arezzo. We will be joined by a local expert who will provide background information for our field trip. We'll visit the Cathedral, and the Church of San Francis, where will admire masterpieces of Piero della Francesca.
Lunch:
At a restaurant in Arezzo.
Afternoon:
Free time in Arezzo. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. We will expect to arrive in Siena in the late afternoon.
Dinner:
Independent meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
44
Free Day, Farewell Dinner
Location:
Siena
Meals:
D
Stay:
ApartHotel Anghel
Activity Note
Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice. Walking about 0.5 miles throughout the day; even and uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Independent meal.
Morning:
Free time.
Lunch:
Independent meal.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
45
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
In Flight
Activity Note
Residence check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program's “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Independent meal. 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
19 Meals
5 Breakfasts
8 Lunches
6 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Sep 14, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
- Feb 16, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025
- Apr 06, 2025 - May 20, 2025
- May 25, 2025 - Jul 08, 2025
- Sep 14, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 6 Reviews
Sort By:
45 days Independent living and learning in Siena Italy, is a fantastic program. It allows you to feel like a "local" and enjoy all that Tuscany has to offer. Plenty of free time to jump on a bus or train and explore many of the lovely small cities and towns within an hour to three from Siena. Amazing food, sites and company with knowledgeable guide(s). This is my 1st Road Scholar trip and look forward to many more!
— Review left July 19, 2024
I loved the challenge of the language classes, the field trips, the history, and the food!
— Review left July 12, 2024
Siena Italy. It's beautiful and the weather in April and May was perfect. The group leader was special and did a great job. We learned a lot about Italian art and history from excellent guides. Siena itself is beautiful and the outside trips were all fabulous. The preservation of medieval towns is amazing. We all loved shopping. You'll have fun, make many new friends as well as learning Italian!
— Review left June 6, 2024
Living in Siena, learning the language at the Universita per Stranieri di Siena , weekend excursions with professional and knowledgeable guides, such as Professor Mario (with his enthusiasm and expertise on art and history of the area) and our "leader" Erica, who took us under her wing and problem solved.....all experiences that were amazing. The only "down side" that I would say would be the location of the apartments. I wish that we were closer to the University and/or City Center, as transportation was an issue after 8:00 pm (busses didn't seem to operate after that time, and taxis were difficult to find.) Aside from the accommodation location, everything that I experienced in Siena was incredible. Highly recommend!
— Review left May 27, 2024
Siena is a gem. So much history and art and culture and tradition and religious spirit to experience. The university professors are excellent. The side trips went to absolutely wonderful places, and the lecturers and guides knowledgeable and enthusiastic. The group leader, Erika, is phenomenal. She handled every little thing beautifully and went above and beyond her job description. If the side trips were changed a bit (so I was not repeating everything I did on this experience), I'd sign up and do it again. In a heartbeat.
— Review left May 26, 2024
Siena becomes your home - you will come to know her streets, her shops, her trattorias, and her people. You'll learn her past and her secrets, and marvel at her timeless beauty, her art and architecture.
Living And Learning In Siena immerses you in the city - and the region - and it will become a part of you, never to be forgotten.
— Review left April 13, 2024
