Departures: any dates through April, May, June, September and October

The Italian Renaissance began the period of European history more commonly known as the Renaissance and marked the transition from the medieval to modern Europe. The Italian Renaissance truly began in Florence and Siena, before having a significant impact on Venice and the rest of Europe, notably France and England.

This tour takes you through the cities of Florence, Siena, Venice and Verona, taking in such masterpieces of literature by Petrarch, Castiglione and Machiavelli as well as works of art by household names such as Michaelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci all surrounded by the fantastic architecture of this region, including the Duomo in Florence and St Mark's Square in Venice.

This tour has been split into 3 distinct regions:

Days 1 to 4 - Tuscany

4 days in the beautiful Tuscan countryside with visits to Florence and Siena. Stay at Florence, Siena, San Vincento or Cecina.

Days 5 to 9 - Venice

Five days in cosmopolitan Venice, taking in the sights and sounds of this historical city. Stay at Ca'Savio or Caorle.

Days 10 to 13 - Verona/Lake Garda

Four days in the surroundings of beautiful Verona and Italy's largest lake. Stay at Bella Italia, Weekend, Europa Silvella, Cisano/San Vito or Fontanelle.

Travel

A return Dover to Calais crossing has been included in the price, however, there are many more ways to reach the starting point for this tour.

Fly-Drive - fly into Florence, Pisa or any of the Rome airports and collect your car upon arrival.

Rail Drive - take the Eurostar to Paris and travel overnight in style to Florence on board the Artesia. Collect you car at Florence.

Self Drive - choose from any of the ferry crossings between the UK and the continent and drive at your own pace. Overnight stops can be organised at a wide selection of campsites "en route".