Program Overview

Program Overview

The Experience Tuscany program is an immersive exploration of Tuscany's art, cuisine, and music, offered by Gonzaga University. The program takes place in October and is based in Florence, Italy, with excursions to the Tuscan countryside.

Program Itinerary

The program itinerary includes:

• Sunday, October 4: Arrival in Florence and welcome reception at Gonzaga in Florence
• Monday, October 5: Visit to Mercato San Ambrogio and hands-on cooking class at Pasta Class Florence
• Tuesday, October 6: Guided visit to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo and live classical concert in a historic oratory
• Wednesday, October 7: Visit to Azienda Gualandi, a family-run olive farm, and arrival at La Certosa di Pontignano, a 14th-century Carthusian monastery
• Thursday, October 8: Tour of La Certosa di Pontignano and visit to Azienda Agricola Losi Querciavalle, a family-owned winery and olive farm
• Friday, October 9: Exploration of Siena with a local guide and intimate musical performance in the chapel at La Certosa di Pontignano
• Saturday, October 10: Visit to Antinori nel Chianti Classico, a globally renowned winery, and farewell dinner in Florence
• Sunday, October 11: Departure from Florence

Program Details

The program includes:

• 4 nights in Florence at the 4-star Hotel Orto de' Medici
• 3 nights in Pontignano at the Certosa di Pontignano
• Local transportation (group coach transfers)
• 2-3 meals per day (approximately 3 meals will be on your own)
• Daily activities (cooking class, concert, tours, wine tastings, etc.)

Pricing and Accommodations

The program pricing is as follows:

• Single Traveler: $4,100 (single accommodations are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis)
• Double Traveler: $3,300 (double rooms are perfect for couples or those traveling with a companion)
• Triple Traveler: $3,100 (triple rooms are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis)

Optional Excursion

An optional excursion to Monteriggioni, a tiny walled medieval town, is available for $100 per person.

Eligibility and Requirements

The program is open to all individuals aged 18 and older. There is no requirement to be a Gonzaga alumnus to attend. The maximum group size is 24 people, and participants must be comfortable walking, standing, and climbing stairs during tours and excursions. COVID vaccination is not required, but Gonzaga University recommends that all travelers be vaccinated for COVID. Airfare and international health insurance are not included.

Additional Information

The program is designed to provide a deeply personal and immersive Tuscan experience, with a focus on cultural immersion, local cuisine, and historic sites. Participants will have the opportunity to form lasting connections with fellow travelers and experience the beauty and charm of Tuscany.