Florence and Rome

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Monday April 17: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Tuesday April 18: Florence

Benvenuti in Italia! Upon arrival in Florence, meet your Encore Tour Manager and begin your Italian adventure in the heart of Tuscany. Enjoy time to explore this magnificent Renaissance city, taking in its charming piazzas, historic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere. Later, travel to the elegant spa town of Montecatini Terme, your home for the next several nights. After checking into your hotel, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner and an introduction to the exciting days ahead. (D)

Day 3, Wednesday April 19: Florence

Today, journey through the heart of Tuscany on a full-day excursion to Siena and San Gimignano. Begin in Siena, one of Italy’s most beautiful medieval cities, where you’ll explore its winding streets, stunning cathedral, and the famous Piazza del Campo. Continue to the hilltop town of San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its impressive medieval towers and breathtaking views of the Tuscan countryside. Enjoy a memorable farm-to-table lunch featuring fresh regional specialties and local flavors before returning to Montecatini for your overnight stay. (B,L) *Alternative Excursion:* Travel to Pisa to admire the iconic Leaning Tower and Piazza dei Miracoli before continuing to the charming walled city of Lucca, where you can stroll along its historic ramparts and picturesque streets. Return to Montecatini for overnight. (B,L)

Day 4, Thursday April 20: Florence

This morning, enjoy a guided city sightseeing tour of Florence to include Ghiberti's Baptistery doors, the Duomo, Santa Croce, and entrance to the Accademia Museum to see Michelangelo's David. Have some free time for lunch and sightseeing on your own. This evening you will have dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Day 5, Friday April 21: Rome

Depart Tuscany this morning and travel south toward Rome. En route, stop in the captivating hilltop city of Orvieto, renowned for its striking Gothic cathedral, charming medieval streets, and panoramic views of the Umbrian countryside. Enjoy time to explore before presenting an early evening concert in this beautiful and historic setting. Following the performance, continue to Rome and check in to your hotel. Gather with your fellow travelers for dinner and reflect on the day’s memorable musical experiences. (B,D)

Day 6, Saturday April 22: Rome

This morning, take a tour of the Colosseum, followed by the Roman Forum to learn more about the Roman Empire's lasting legacy in this historic city. Later today, prepare for the second concert of the tour at a local venue such as Sant'Agnese Church. Enjoy a pizza making dinner together this evening. (B,D)

Day 7, Sunday April 23: Rome

This morning, you will transfer to St. Peter's Basilica to attend the Papal Blessing at noon. Afterwards, have a full day to explore the Vatican and Vatican museum ending with the choir singing mass at one of the Vatican alters. Enjoy a farewell dinner together this evening! (B,D)

Day 8, Monday April 24: Departure

Transfer to the airport for return flight to the United States. (B)