Gay Group Trip: Tuscany Explorer

After breakfast we’ll take a train to the heart of Tuscany. The castle compound is truly spectacular – we’ll begin with a tour of the castle.

We’ll explore the village of 2000 inhabitants and explore nearby wineries and towns. Back at the castle it’ll be time to grab a Chianti and enjoy your first night in a Tuscan castle.

Today we’ll visit Pisa where you can take that mandatory selfie by the leaning tower. Who messed up that famed tower? We shall take a deep dive and find out. A local tour guide will show us around Pisa and help to unravel its 3000 history.

There’s so much more to Pisa than the architectural curiosity people take selfies in front of. It’s a great art city, full of charming alleys, squares and markets. After exploring Pisa, we’ll head to Lucca, a fabulous medieval city. Its distinctly Italian architecture is a must-see in Tuscany.

Siena is a 30-minute drive away. It’s famed for the Palio horse race. It’s quite brutal and it’s been going since the 11th century. Siena was a rich and independent city state, until it was defeated and descended into poverty. The original medieval buildings were left standing as they couldn’t afford to build new ones. Now it’s a must-see destination that gives you a glimpse of old world Italy.

Dinner in Siena in a beautiful patio restaurant.

Feel free to spend the day relaxing by the castle’s pool. If you’d like to explore some more, you can join us as we explore more local villages and delve deeper into Tuscan cuisine.

Florence is just 80-minutes away from the castle. It’s one of the most magical cities in Europe. Famed for its stunning Renaissance art and architecture, it’s a monument to Italian culture. Our local guide will take us for a tour and discover some of the great artworks. Florence is the birthplace of gelato and the modern Italian language itself.

In the evening, we’ll explore Florence’s nightlife have dinner. We’ll then head back to the castle for our last night in Tuscany.

It’s time to take the Roman road and say goodbye to our 14th-century castle. We can arrange an extension for you if you’d like to visit Venice, Milan or the Amalfi Coast.

You’ll stay at the Monti Palace Hotel in Rome. Nestled in the heart of the city, this recently unveiled establishment serves as an ideal launchpad for your explorations. A mere 10-minute stroll from the entrance, you’ll find yourself gazing up at the iconic Colosseum and the awe-inspiring Roman Forum. Inside the hotel, you’ll find contemporary design, a rooftop restaurant, and incredibly comfortable rooms.

What’s the Climate Like?
The period from June to September offers abundant sunshine in Italy. Daily temperatures are expected to range between 75°F and 85°F (24-30°C). With minimal rainfall during this dry season, it’s advisable to pack ample sun protection. Nevertheless, as weather can occasionally be unpredictable, it’s wise to include some ‘just in case’ rain gear in your packing list.

What’s the Currency?
The Euro is the primary currency in Italy. Having some cash on hand is recommended for purchases like souvenirs and tips. Most shops and restaurants accept Visa and Mastercard, though American Express is less widely accepted. ATMs are readily available throughout the trip for additional cash.

What Are The Excursions?
You’ll enjoy a series of thrilling excursions, including guided day trips to Siena, Florence, and Pisa, as well as enchanting dinners at the castle and the local village. Some of these are already covered in your trip expenses. Nevertheless, you’re free to deviate from the schedule if you have other specific interests.

What’s the Phone Service Like?
Many cell phone carriers offer international roaming on Italian networks. Contact your provider to confirm coverage and inquire about cost-effective international service plans. We will have data and call connectivity throughout the trip, and the accommodations provide complimentary WiFi.