Italy
Christmas in Florence
Program No. 24915RJ
Florence, Italy is known as the “Cradle of the Renaissance.” From local customs and cuisine to the renowned Uffizi Gallery, celebrate the holidays in this historic Italian city.
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800-454-5768
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9 days
8 nights
14 meals
7B 2L 5D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
7
Art Lecture, Uffizi, Free Time
Florence
8
Accademia, Free Time
Florence
9
Program Concludes
Florence
At a Glance
Art, Renaissance history, cuisine, music — Florence has it all, and there’s no better time to experience this fascinating city than during the holidays! Join experts as they lead you on field trips to renowned museums like the Uffizi to study the works of Botticelli and Caravaggio, offer a local’s look at Italian holiday customs and teach you their culinary secrets during a hands-on pasta-making workshop. Witness the magnificent architecture and history of the Synagogue of Florence and admire other architectural marvels like the Duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio. Local traditions and a long history of rich culture come together in Italy to create this immersive learning adventure.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to four miles a day. Extended standing during site visits with limited or no public seating. Uneven terrain, limited public handrails, unavoidable stairs, marble and terracotta flooring, cobblestones. Elevator use is limited or restricted in historic sites. Expect crowded conditions in pedestrian centers and museums.
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…
- Spend Christmas Day enjoying a festive kosher meal at one of Florence’s Jewish restaurants.
- Delve into some of Italy’s traditions that span the holiday season, from the Immacolata (the Feast of the Immaculate Conception) to Epifania (Epiphany, marked by a visit from La Befana and gifts for good children).
- Dive into the history of Florence, from its medieval origins to the Renaissance period, with expert-led visits to local landmarks like the Duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Suzanne Myers
Suzanne Myers originally hails from Lincoln, Nebraska and has been living in Florence since 2011. She has a BA in art history from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota and an MA in art history from Syracuse University. She works as a lecturer for several study away programs in Florence and as a licensed group leader. Suzanne specializes in Italian Renaissance art, but also loves to lecture on a wide range of subjects from the Medici family to the Black Death to Florentine fashion.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Suzanne Myers
View biography
Suzanne Myers originally hails from Lincoln, Nebraska and has been living in Florence since 2011. She has a BA in art history from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota and an MA in art history from Syracuse University. She works as a lecturer for several study away programs in Florence and as a licensed group leader. Suzanne specializes in Italian Renaissance art, but also loves to lecture on a wide range of subjects from the Medici family to the Black Death to Florentine fashion.
Elena Cappelli
View biography
Elena Cappelli was born in Florence and studied at the Università degli Studi di Firenze where she completed her degree in foreign languages. She worked for a number of years as an event planner for a cultural association. A few years ago, she decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps to showcase her city to visitors, soon becoming a licensed expert in Florence. Elena lives in the Oltrarno neighborhood, an old residential district on the other side of the Arno River, with her teenage children.
Suggested Reading List
(10 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.
Christmas in Florence
Program Number: 24915
Saving Italy: The Race to Rescue a Nation's Treasures from the Nazis
Focused on the period from 1943 to 1945, "Saving Italy" sheds light on the extensive looting and destruction perpetrated by the Nazis and their allies as they occupied Italy. Centered around the work of the Monuments, Fine Arts, and Archives program, a group of art experts and military personnel, the book tells the story of their race against time to locate, recover, and safeguard Italy's artistic treasures. The book highlights the determination of individuals who risked their lives to rescue masterpieces, including iconic works by artists like Michelangelo and da Vinci, from the clutches of the Nazis.
The Birth of Venus
A historical novel that transports readers to the vibrant and tumultuous world of 15th-century Florence. The story revolves around the life of Alessandra Cecchi, a young and talented artist living in a society that stifles women's ambitions and creativity. Alessandra's journey unfolds against the backdrop of the Italian Renaissance, a period of profound cultural, artistic, and political change. As she navigates the challenges of her time, Alessandra becomes embroiled in a web of forbidden love, political intrigue, and artistic passion. Dunant's novel skillfully weaves together art, history, and romance, offering a vivid portrayal of Renaissance Florence and the struggles faced by individuals who dared to defy societal norms.
A Room with a View
A classic novel that explores the themes of social conventions, love, and personal awakening. The story follows the journey of Lucy Honeychurch, a young Englishwoman who embarks on a journey of self-discovery during a trip to Italy. While staying at a pension in Florence, Lucy encounters a cast of memorable characters who challenge traditional Victorian values and open her eyes to a world of passion and romance. Through misadventures and unexpected encounters, Lucy must navigate the complexities of her heart and the societal expectations that threaten to confine her. The novel is known for its witty social commentary and beautifully evoked settings, making it a timeless exploration of human emotions and the clash between individual desires and societal norms.
Michelangelo: The Artist, the Man and his Times
"Michelangelo: The Artist, the Man, and His Times" by William E. Wallace offers a comprehensive exploration of the life and work of one of the most iconic figures in art history, Michelangelo Buonarroti. This biography goes beyond the surface to delve into the complex psyche of the artist and the turbulent times in which he lived. Wallace paints a vivid portrait of Michelangelo's early years in Florence, his tumultuous relationships with patrons and fellow artists, and his enduring legacy as a sculptor, painter, and architect. The book delves into Michelangelo's creative process, shedding light on his masterpieces like the Sistine Chapel ceiling and the Statue of David. At the same time, Wallace provides historical context, detailing the political and social upheavals of the Renaissance period. Readers gain insight into how these events influenced Michelangelo's work and worldview. With meticulous research and engaging storytelling, "Michelangelo" is a compelling biography that offers a deeper understanding of the man behind the art.
A Very Italian Christmas: The Greatest Italian Holiday Stories of All Time
"A Very Italian Christmas: The Greatest Italian Holiday Stories of All Time" is an anthology that captures the essence of Italian holiday traditions and emotions through a collection of heartwarming and diverse short stories. These tales, penned by some of Italy's most renowned authors, offer readers a glimpse into how Italians celebrate the holiday season. From tales of love and family to stories of reflection and nostalgia, this anthology weaves together a rich tapestry of Italian life during the festive season. The authors draw upon their cultural heritage and personal experiences to create narratives that resonate with universal themes of love, hope, and the importance of human connection.
Blue Guide Florence
This guidebook provides in-depth insights into Florence's art, history, and culture. Written by experts, it offers detailed information about the city's renowned museums, churches, and architectural treasures, including the Uffizi, Florence Cathedral, and the Palazzo Vecchio. The guide also covers lesser-known gems, hidden courtyards, and local eateries.
The House of Medici: Its Rise and Fall
This well-researched and engaging book provides readers with a detailed chronicle of the Medici family's ascent to power in Florence during the 15th century. It explores the family's origins, their role as bankers, and the astute political maneuvers that allowed them to become the de facto rulers of Florence. The Medici's patronage of the arts, particularly their support for artists like Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, is a central theme in the book, highlighting their significant impact on the Renaissance. Hibbert also delves into the tumultuous political landscape of Renaissance Italy, marked by power struggles, alliances, and rivalries between various city-states and noble families.
The Passion of Artemisia: A Novel
This novel takes readers on a captivating journey through the life and artistry of Artemisia Gentileschi, a remarkable painter in 17th-century Italy. Set against the backdrop of a male-dominated art world and the tumultuous Baroque period, the story explores Artemisia's struggles and triumphs as a pioneering artist. Artemisia Gentileschi, known for her vivid and dramatic paintings, was one of the first recognized female painters of her time. Vreeland's novel delves into Artemisia's personal and artistic evolution, her complex relationships with other artists and patrons, and the challenges she faced as a woman pursuing her passion in a society that often marginalized and oppressed women. "The Passion of Artemisia" offers a compelling blend of art history, historical fiction, and feminist exploration.
Inferno
The adventures of renowned Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon as he finds himself entangled in a deadly race against time. Set against the backdrop of Florence, Italy, Langdon must decipher a series of complex clues based on Dante Alighieri's "Divine Comedy" to prevent a global catastrophe. When Langdon wakes up in a Florence hospital with no memory of how he got there, he soon discovers that he is the target of a sinister plot. With the help of Sienna Brooks, a brilliant doctor, Langdon races through Florence's beautiful and historic streets, solving puzzles and unraveling a mystery that could change the course of human history.
Art in Renaissance Italy
A comprehensive and insightful exploration of the art and culture that defined the Italian Renaissance. The book provides a rich and detailed overview of the period from the 13th to the 16th century, during which Italy witnessed a flourishing artistic achievement. Readers are guided through the major artistic centers of the Renaissance, including Florence, Rome, Venice, and Siena, as they delve into the works of renowned artists such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raphael. The authors offer a deep analysis of the various artistic forms, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and decorative arts, while delving into the social, political, and religious contexts that shaped this remarkable period.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
9 days
Program Begins
Florence
Program Concludes
Florence
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
14
| 7B |
2L |
5D |
Activity Level
Art, Renaissance history, cuisine, music — Florence has it all, and there’s no better time to experience this fascinating city than during the holidays! Join experts as they lead you on field trips to renowned museums like the Uffizi to study the works of Botticelli and Caravaggio, offer a local’s look at Italian holiday customs and teach you their culinary secrets during a hands-on pasta-making workshop. Witness the magnificent architecture and history of the Synagogue of Florence and admire other architectural marvels like the Duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio. Local traditions and a long history of rich culture come together in Italy to create this immersive learning adventure.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Spend Christmas Day enjoying a festive kosher meal at one of Florence’s Jewish restaurants.
- Delve into some of Italy’s traditions that span the holiday season, from the Immacolata (the Feast of the Immaculate Conception) to Epifania (Epiphany, marked by a visit from La Befana and gifts for good children).
- Dive into the history of Florence, from its medieval origins to the Renaissance period, with expert-led visits to local landmarks like the Duomo and the Palazzo Vecchio.
Featured Expert
Suzanne Myers
Suzanne Myers originally hails from Lincoln, Nebraska and has been living in Florence since 2011. She has a BA in art history from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota and an MA in art history from Syracuse University. She works as a lecturer for several study away programs in Florence and as a licensed group leader. Suzanne specializes in Italian Renaissance art, but also loves to lecture on a wide range of subjects from the Medici family to the Black Death to Florentine fashion.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Elena Cappelli
Elena Cappelli was born in Florence and studied at the Università degli Studi di Firenze where she completed her degree in foreign languages. She worked for a number of years as an event planner for a cultural association. A few years ago, she decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps to showcase her city to visitors, soon becoming a licensed expert in Florence. Elena lives in the Oltrarno neighborhood, an old residential district on the other side of the Arno River, with her teenage children.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to four miles a day. Extended standing during site visits with limited or no public seating. Uneven terrain, limited public handrails, unavoidable stairs, marble and terracotta flooring, cobblestones. Elevator use is limited or restricted in historic sites. Expect crowded conditions in pedestrian centers and museums.
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
(10 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
9 days
8 nights
What's Included
14 meals | 7B | 2L | 5D |
4 expert-led lectures
8 expert-led field trips
1 hands-on experience
An experienced Group Leader
7 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Florence, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Florence
Meals:
D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m. Walking less than 1 mile; urban terrain and cobblestones.
Afternoon:
After you check in and have your room assignment, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation session. Orientation: 4:30 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 We will learn from the Group Leader and a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips. We will walk to and from field trips unless otherwise noted. 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. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Next, we will join our Group Leader for a welcome cocktail (or fruit juice).
Dinner:
At the hotel restaurant.
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
Medieval Origins, Duomo & Museum, Santa Maria Novella
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, extended periods of standing, mostly level urban stone sidewalks and streets, cobblestones, marble/tile flooring, elevator available at Opera del Duomo Museum, and unavoidable stairs. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
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. After a short break, we will set out on a field trip and walk to the Duomo where a museum docent will lead our exploration of Florence’s most famous landmark. It is officially known as the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, simply the Duomo. It is the third-largest church in the world. The magnificent dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and completed in 1434, was startlingly innovative at the time and is considered one of the wonders of the Renaissance. We will also explore the Duomo Museum complex, recently reopened after a significant renovation and modernization. It includes more than 750 works of art covering more than seven centuries of history, including medieval and Renaissance statues and marble, bronze, and silver reliefs by leading artists of the day. 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.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll meet at an appointed time and place to walk to the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella complex, located near the city’s main train station, to meet our local art historian. Santa Maria Novella is Florence’s Dominican church, built on land assigned to the Order in the early 13th century. The present basilica was constructed in the early 15th century; its famous façade was designed by famed Renaissance man, Leon Battista Alberti in the 1470s. The interior of the basilica contains astounding works of 15th-century frescoes, including Masaccio's Trinity and Domenico Ghirlandaio’s (and possibly young apprentice Michelangelo) Tornabuoni Chapel, not to mention works by Lorenzo Ghiberti, Giambologna, Bernardo Daddi, and Filippino Lippi.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Santa Croce, Pasta/Gelato Cooking Class
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 5 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits, cobblestones, marble/tile flooring, and some uneven urban stone sidewalks.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Our day begins with a walk to the Basilica of Santa Croce for a captivating expert-led visit. This historic Franciscan basilica, built in the 13th century, stands as a testament to the artistic brilliance of Giotto. Adorning the Bardi and Peruzzi Chapels are awe-inspiring frescoes credited to Giotto, which mesmerize visitors with their vivid hues and intricate storytelling. These masterpieces vividly depict biblical narratives and the life of St. Francis, showcasing unparalleled artistry and craftsmanship. Santa Croce is the final resting place for numerous luminaries, including Michelangelo, Galileo Galilei, and Niccolò Machiavelli, imbuing the basilica with profound historical significance and attracting pilgrims eager to honor these eminent figures.
Lunch:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Afternoon:
We will have some independent time to do as we like. Later in the afternoon, we’ll convene at a designated location to walk together to a delightful cooking class focused on the art of pasta and gelato making. Under the guidance of skilled instructors, we’ll dive into the intricacies of crafting authentic Italian delicacies. From kneading the dough to shaping it into delectable pasta shapes and from mastering the secrets of creamy gelato to infusing it with tantalizing flavors, we’ll immerse ourselves in the culinary traditions of Tuscany. The session’s highlight will undoubtedly be savoring the fruits of our labor, indulging in the rich flavors and textures of our freshly made pasta and velvety gelato creations.
Dinner:
At the cooking school.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Bargello, San Lorenzo, Free Time, Christmas Eve
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble/tile flooring, and mostly level urban stone sidewalks. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We begin the day in the hotel meeting room with a lecture on Florentine sculpture. The presentation by a local art historian examines the development of the art form from antiquity through the Renaissance with special emphasis on the works of Ghiberti, Donatello, and Michelangelo. We’ll walk to the Bargello where an art historian will lead us through the museum and examine the development of sculpture from antiquity through the Renaissance with special emphasis on the works of Ghiberti, Donatello, and Michelangelo. Notable works include Donatello’s David and bronzes by Cellini and Giambologna. Our local expert will then lead us back toward San Lorenzo where we’ll learn about this imposing structure and its unfinished facade.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
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:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. You will have the opportunity to attend a Midnight Mass on your own (not a group activity) at churches within walking distance of the hotel. Experience a quintessential Florentine Christmas by attending Midnight Mass at the Duomo on Christmas Eve! As entry is granted on a first-come, first-served basis, we suggest arriving by 10:30 p.m. to secure a spot. Mass will be held in Italian. Alternatively, consider St. Mark’s Anglican Church (v. Maggio 16) or St. James' Episcopal Church (v. Rucellai, 9) for an English-language Christmas Mass, both hosting mass at 11:00 p.m., accompanied by uplifting music. San Miniato al Monte also offers a Midnight Mass featuring Gregorian chant on December 24.
Day
6
Free Time, Florence Synagogue & Museum, Holiday Traditions
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble/tile flooring, and mostly level urban stone sidewalks. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Buon Natale! We will have free time this morning for those who wish to attend a Christmas service at a local church. We'll walk from our hotel to the small district north of Santa Croce, which is home to Florence's Jewish community.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will begin visiting the Great Synagogue of Florence, where a knowledgeable docent will direct us through the synagogue and museum. During our visit, we'll delve into the rich history of Florence’s Jewish community, exploring its cultural significance and contributions to the city's vibrant tapestry. Florence’s Jewish community has a long and storied history dating back to Roman times. Jews settled in Florence as early as the 1st century BCE, engaging in various trades and contributing to the city's cultural and economic life. During the Middle Ages, Florence became a hub for Jewish scholarship and commerce, with the community flourishing under the patronage of the powerful Medici family. However, periods of prosperity were often marred by persecution and discrimination. Despite these challenges, the Jewish community persevered, leaving a lasting imprint on Florence’s identity. Today, the community thrives, preserving its heritage while actively contributing to the city's cultural mosaic. We will gather in the hotel meeting room for an engaging lecture by our Group Leader as we delve into Italy’s rich tapestry of holiday traditions. From festive customs rooted in centuries-old traditions to modern-day celebrations infused with cultural significance, we’ll explore the diverse array of practices observed across the country during the holiday season.
Dinner:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Art Lecture, Uffizi, Free Time
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 3 miles total throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble/tile flooring, and mostly level urban stone sidewalks and streets. Elevator available at the Uffizi. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
In the meeting room of the hotel, an art historian will join us and give an overview of Renaissance Art and, with an illustrated presentation, describe highlighted works of art in the collection of the Uffizi. We set out on foot to the esteemed Galleria degli Uffizi for a timed and reserved entrance. Stepping through the doors, we will be enveloped in a world of artistic wonders during our self-directed journey in this world-renowned museum, where we can explore at our own pace. The arrangement of the works within the Uffizi follows a thoughtfully curated order, steering through a visual chronicle of artistic evolution. Witness the majestic progression from the intricate details of the International Gothic style to the audacious and innovative expressions of Baroque art. Glimpse the ethereal beauty of Botticelli's The Birth of Venus and Leonardo da Vinci's enigmatic Annunciation, delight in the vivid colors and dynamic energy of works by Michelangelo and Raphael, and marvel at the exquisite brushwork and emotive compositions that define the Baroque period, as exemplified by masterpieces crafted by luminaries such as Caravaggio and Artemisia Gentileschi. There is a coffee bar at the end of the corridor on the Second Floor (upper level) where you can relax and purchase refreshments while enjoying a commanding view of the bell tower of Palazzo Vecchio and the cupola of the Duomo. 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.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
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:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
8
Accademia, Free Time
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Rivoli Boutique Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day with extended periods of standing during site visits; cobblestones, marble/tile flooring, and mostly level urban stone sidewalks. Sculptures at the Accademia are on the ground floor; elevator available to the paintings on the first floor. Extent of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will walk to the Accademia for an expert-led visit to 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.
Lunch:
On your own to sample the local fare.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most.
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
9
Program Concludes
Location:
Florence
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. For those with early departures, the hotel will prepare a bag breakfast to take. 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 rewarding programs 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
14 Meals
7 Breakfasts
2 Lunches
5 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 28, 2025
- Dec 20, 2025 - Dec 28, 2025
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