The Tuscan cities of Pisa and Lucca are full of breathtaking architectural treasures and the echoes of history. In Pisa, a mesmerising medieval treasure trove on the banks of the River Arno, the green lawns of the Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles) are home to arguably Italy's most enduring landmark - the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa – and to the huge circular Baptistery, the marble- and mosaic-decorated Duomo and the elegant arcades of the Campo Santo cemetery. Discover the sights and sample cecina - a local focaccia-like bread made with chickpea flour. Elegant, walled Lucca was the birthplace of the composer Puccini, and the museum at his former home, its ancient cathedral, the Torre delle Ore clock tower and the exquisite Piazza Anfiteatro, built around the city's Roman amphitheatre, are among the must-sees in this charming city. Visitors with a sweet tooth can try a slice of Buccellato - a ring-shaped cake filled with sultanas and raisins, and delicately flavoured with aniseed. You'll round off your wonderful day with a visit to Volterra, high above the Cecina and Dell’Era valleys. Here ancient Etruscan walls surround beautifully preserved medieval streets and houses, at the heart of which you'll find a stunning Romanesque cathedral and the ornate Piazza del Priori, lined with beautiful palazzi. The city also boasts one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in Italy.

Today’s included excursion takes you into the Tuscan countryside. Here, the charming farmhouse of Podere La Marronaia stands amid vineyards and olive groves beneath the watchful gaze of San Gimignano and its iconic tower-houses. You'll be treated to samples of locally produced wines, including crisp Vernaccia di San Gimignano, one of Italy’s finest whites, and a hand-harvested Chianti Colli Senesi red. There'll also be an opportunity to taste several organic olive oils (both extra virgin and flavoured) as you enjoy appetisers and snacks designed to complement the produce. After your wine-tasting you'll have the afternoon free to explore San Gimignano, where 14 of what were formerly 72 towers rise above the town’s maze of medieval streets and piazzas, and look out across the exquisite rolling countryside around the town.

The final food-lovers highlight of your Tuscan holiday will be a typical Tuscan lunch served in the heart of Tavarnelle Val di Pesa. This pretty hill village's mix of ancient fortifications, crumbling monasteries, beautiful churches and ornate palazzi make it a perfect place for a pre-lunch wander. You'll be welcomed to lunch by Chef Tosca, who will prepare a delicious three-course menu of local specialities - a final delightful taste of Tuscany as your tour comes to an end. The rest of the day will be left free, leaving you plenty of time to rest and relax at the hotel.

Bid "Arrivederci" to your hosts and transfer to the airport to board your flight home at the end of a marvellous tour crammed with unforgettable sights and gourmet experiences.