Highlights of Tuscany

This week-long tour with Just You is a considered introduction to Tuscany, staying mainly in Montecatini Terme, a spa town known for its Art Nouveau buildings and thermal waters. After arriving in Pisa to meet the group, the second day takes in Fattoria Il Poggio, where vineyards and olive oil production combine with a hands-on lunch of local specialities.

Florence follows on day three, where the compact historic centre by the River Arno includes the soaring Duomo and the centuries-old Ponte Vecchio. The schedule allows plenty of leisure time in Montecatini Terme – ideal for a stroll along the ancient funicular to the castle at Montecatini Alto or simply watching the fountains celebrated for the healing waters.

Pisa returns on day five to see the Leaning Tower and the Field of Miracles, with an evening at the Montecatini Opera Festival arranged if schedules allow. Two more days at leisure give the option to visit Lucca, framed by impressive city walls and overlooked by a tree-topped tower, or simply relax and take things at your own pace.

New to Italy? Our Italy guide has the practical essentials: money, plugs, visas and when to go.