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DAY 3 – SUN – ROME – LA SPEZIA. Take the autostrada northwards through Tuscany, home of the famous Chianti wines, to medieval Siena, where you can explore narrow cobbled streets lined with palaces and patrician mansions, and the famous Campo Square. Twice a year, the Palio horse race takes place here to the accompaniment of great festivities. Continue to Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower in the 'Meadow of Miracles', and the 11th century Cathedral and Baptistery. Follow the Mediterranean coast past the marble quarries of Carrara to your hotel in La Spezia on the eastern end of the Italian Riviera. Hotel: Jolly. (BB,D)

DAY 4 – MON – LA SPEZIA – FLORENCE. Explore the Cinque Terre, or ‘five villages’, which were for years only accessible by donkey. Luckily, today you can take the train! A local expert will guide you around two of the villages, which both retain their charm and reputation for producing one of Italy’s most sought after and exclusive wines. Later, head to Florence, city of treasures and cradle of the Renaissance, for your two night stay. Hotel: Villa Gabriele D’Annunzio. (BB,D)

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DAY 3 – SUN – ROME – TUSCANY. Take the autostrada north to medieval Siena, where you can explore narrow cobbled streets lined with palaces and patrician mansions. Twice a year, in the famous Campo Square, the Palio horse race takes place to the accompaniment of great festivities. After some time to explore, continue to your elegant Tuscan villa near the walled town of Monteriggione. Having spent two days in the bustling metropolis of Rome, your villa is a welcome retreat. The meticulously manicured grounds, friendly staff and terrific food are out of this world. Relax by the pool, take in the tranquil surroundings, this is Tuscany at its best. Hotel: Borgo San Luigi. (BB,D)

DAY 4 – MON – CHIANTI EXCURSION. Drive to the delightful hill-top town of San Gimignano, nicknamed 'Tuscany's Medieval Manhattan' due to the towers which dominate the skyline. See the Piazza del Duomo and Palazzo del Popolo before some free time to stroll the cobbled streets and perhaps enjoy some lunch or shopping. Get your cameras ready now for a drive through the beautiful rolling countryside of Tuscany, the epitome of picture postcard Italy. Pass olive groves, old farmhouses, medieval towns and, of course, the famous Chianti vineyards on your way to taste some of the most famous products of Tuscany at a local winery. Later, return to the delightful setting of your Tuscan villa. (BB)