4 Days in Florence and Tuscany: Mixing History, Wine & Adventure

3pm: Check in at Casa Botticelli in San Felice, an innovative boutique hotel in the heart of Florence, close to Palazzo Pitti, immersed in the fascinating atmosphere of the Santo Spirito district. Take some time to unwind after your travels.

5pm: Check out the boutiques and jewelry shops of Ponte Vecchio, a picturesque medieval arched river bridge with Roman origins.

6pm: Time for an Aperitif with a view!

The word aperitif has a charming origin, coming from the Italian word 'Aperitivo,' which, in a nutshell, means 'appetizer.' It's all about setting the mood for a delicious dining experience! A great option where to enjoy aperitif with a great view of the city and Duomo is Divina Terraza at Grand Hotel Cavour.

8pm: Dinner Reservation at La Buchetta Restaurant, a cozy, old-timey bistro with a traditional menu, matched by an extensive wine. Servers are helpful in making suggestions based on the types of wines you prefer. La Buchetta is known for its Florentine steak. Also, try the Gnocchi Angeli e Demoni (Gnocchi Angels and Demons). For dessert, the cheesecake is served warm.

Wake up early today and skip breakfast for an amazing hot air balloon ride over Tuscany!

7:30am: A hot air balloon ride in Florence. Observe this wonderful city from a privileged perspective, as its famous landmarks unveil themselves one by one before you. After the flight, you will enjoy a toast with Prosecco and breakfast.

10am: Time to explore! Once back at the city, explore a bit at your own pace. Some options are the great markets like: Saint Ambrogio Market (the oldest market in Florence). There are also amazing museums like: Uffizi Gallery, where you can see famous masterpieces like the Michelangelo's Holy Family, the Botticelli's Birth of Venus and the Spring.

12pm: Lunch. Check out All'antico Vinaio. Voted one of the best sandwiches in the world numerous times. The lines get long, so go early. Favorites are: L'Italiana, La Paradiso and La Favolosa. (Closed on Mondays)

1pm: Try one of Florence's famous gelaterias! Gelateria La Carraia is located right in front of the namesake bridge crossing the Arno river. It offers daily fresh and top quality products. Easy to find because there will be a line of people out the door!

2:15pm: Best of Florence Walking Tour with David & the Duomo. An incredible Florence walking tour that covers all the must-see gems of this Tuscan capital! From the iconic Ponte Vecchio to breezing past the lines at the stunning Duomo. Also included is a skip-the-line visit to Michelangelo's David, you'll make the most of every moment alongside a knowledgeable local guide, who will weave captivating stories and fascinating facts, bringing this city to life before your very eyes.

6pm: Order from the famous Babae Wine Window.. Drink wine (or Aperol Spritz) handed out through a window as part of an age-old tradition. While most buchette del vino have long been sealed up, buying wine through a window was once a regular part of local life. There is often a line to order, but the festive mood will make it go quick.

7pm: Watch the sunset at Piazzale Michelangelo. Grab a bottle of your favorite wine and watch the sunset in this 19th-century piazza with a bronze replica of Michelangelo's David and panoramic views over the city. Usually a popular spot with a lively crowd in the evenings.

Dinner Options

• Trattoria Marione - Famous for its boar sauce, old-school style in ambience and cooking techniques. Order the Florentine Ribollita.

• Osteria dell’Agnolo - Open since 1580. Iconic local dishes are reminiscent of those cooked by rural housewives back in the day. Try the traditional lampredotto (boiled cow stomach) and handmade pici short pasta.

Enjoy breakfast in the hotel and head out to your tour meeting point.

9am: Small Group Tuscany Vespa Tour. This incredible Vespa tour is the best way to see Tuscany in a fun and easy way. Join the Italian Vespa Club and live the Dolce Vita as you take in panoramic views of the Tuscan Hills, rounding off the trip with a guided visit to wine cellars and a traditional Tuscan lunch.

(There are other Tuscan Wineries and Olive Oil tasting tours available if riding Vespas isn’t your thing!)

5pm: Back in the city with a little time to chill or explore some more.

7pm: Traditional Tuscan Cooking Class in Florence. Get ready for an authentic culinary adventure! Join some locals with whom you'll be rolling out and stretching fresh pasta and pizza dough with your own floury fingers and the best part? You get to savor the delicious fruits of your labor, just like a true Tuscan!

10pm: Time for a nightcap.

Some of the best bars in Florence:

• Mad - Souls & Spirits - A quintessential dive bar with great craft cocktails.

• Manifattura - A made-in Italy 50s theme emphasizes Italian-made spirits and liqueurs and classic drinks like Negronis and bellinis.

• Enoteca Pitti Gola e Cantina - Located opposite the grandiose 15th-century Pitti Palace. This small enoteca or wine bar, has a loyal local following.

Enjoy your last breakfast at the hotel and head out for an early morning walk.

8:30am: Boboli Park. Time permitting, take a walk through Boboli Park. It is located a few steps away from your hotel. Formal gardens laid out in the 16th and 17th centuries, with Renaissance statues and ornate fountains.

11am: Time to check out at Casa Botticelli in San Felice and continue your adventures elsewhere!