Away Game Travel 2008 Tour List 2009 Tour List Photo Gallery Request Information Testimonials 2009 Tour Flyer pdf Travel Insurance Events Away Game Activities Tiger Tour Tournament

Tuscany-Cortona, Italy

October 21-29, 2009

From the innovations of the Etruscans to the enlightenment of the Renaissance, Tuscany is a region steeped in history and human achievement. Let the charming village of Cortona be your base as you travel through the surrounding Tuscan hill country, admiring the beauty of the land. In Siena, navigate narrow cobblestone streets lined with Gothic buildings, visit the city’s magnificent Duomo and stroll the Piazza del Campo, one of the loveliest squares in Italy. In Umbria, explore two walled cities—medieval Assisi, home to the exquisite Basilica of St. Francis, and Perugia, an ancient Etruscan city-state. Then, journey to tiny Montepulciano, set in the heart of Chianti Country. Finally, experience the brilliant artistic and architectural heritage of Florence, the “Cradle of the Renaissance.”

Day-by-Day Itinerary*
Day 1 Depart your gateway city for Florence, Italy. (Flight provided for Air Package participants only.)
Day 2 Upon arrival, transfer to Hotel San Luca in Cortona. (Transfer provided for Air Package participants only.) This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome reception and dinner.
Day 3 Educational Focus: Cortona and Environs. Excursion: Walking Tour of Cortona. Admire the treasures of Cortona as you stroll past historic palazzi and charming piazzas. Visit the Romanesque cathedral and Diocesan Museum. Excursion: The Tuscan Countryside. Travel through the hill country surrounding Cortona and admire the breathtaking scenery. Local Flavor: Tour a winery and sample its superb vintages and fine local cheeses.
Day 4 Excursion: Assisi. Visit the magnificent walled city of Assisi. Embrace its treasures, including the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli and the Basilica of St. Francis. Local Flavor: Savor a delicious lunch served at a restaurant in Assisi. Excursion: Perugia. See the Fontana Maggiore and the Prior’s Palace, which houses the National Gallery of Umbria.
Day 5 Excursion: Montepulciano. Travel to Montepulciano, a town of Renaissance-style palazzi and churches. Stroll along the main street. Chat with artisans and peek into wine cellars filled with famous Vino Nobile. Educational Focus: Etruscan and Medieval History. Excursion: Museum of the Etruscan Academy. Visit Cortona’s 14th-century Praetorian Palace, where the Museum of the Etruscan Academy will astound you with archaeological finds and ancient works of art.
Day 6 Educational Focus: Renaissance Art. Excursion: Siena. See the Piazza del Campo, one of the loveliest squares in Italy, and the 14th-century Torre del Mangia. Visit the Gaia Fountain and the dramatic Gothic Duomo. Educational Focus: Meet the People.
Day 7 Excursion: Florence. Embrace the heart of Tuscany and the “Cradle of the Renaissance” with a full day in Firenze! A guided tour highlights the city’s art and architecture. Independent Exploration: Spend some time at leisure to pursue your own interests in Florence.
Day 8 Educational Focus: A Contemporary View of Italy. Local Flavor: Attend a presentation of Tuscan cooking and cuisine given by the skilled staff of the Restaurant Tonino. This evening, attend a special graduation ceremony, followed by a festive farewell reception and dinner.
Day 9 Transfer to the Florence airport for the return flight to your gateway city. (Transfer and flight provided for Air Package participants only.)

* Itinerary is subject to change due to local conditions. Excursions in this program may involve an element of walking as some of the finest attractions are not always located in areas closely accessible by motorcoach.

Cost: approximately $2,295 per person, plus airfare and V.A.T., based on double occupancy.