Colette's Florentine Excursions:

My name is Colette and I am a dual American and French citizen living in Florence. Fluent in Italian, English and French my excursions center on the significance of Florence through the history of art. I moved here as a student studying Medieval and Early Renaissance Art History and currently lead students on trips throughout Tuscany and Italy as the Art History TA for an American University program. On your tour you will discover many fascinating areas of the city as well as having the option to base the excursion on your interests which can be discussed via phone or email. I offer the 'Mystical Evening Excursion' below as one unique way of learning about and seeing the city. However, just let me know what you would like to get out of your trip and I will be your personal guide (and interpretor) through the winding streets of Florence.

Mystical Evening Excursion:

Baptistery, Colette's favorite Gelateria or Hot Cocoa, hill-top views of Florence and Gregorian chants at San Miniato (Baptistery admission and a Gelato or Hot Cocoa included).

We begin our excursion at the baptistery with a viewing of Florence's only large mosaic cycle from the Medieval or Renaissance period. Once learning its secrets we walk through the heart of the historic city, making our way to Piazza della Signoria. Here we discuss stories of the statues located in the Loggia, their violent presence and the artist's arrogance in creating them. From here you choose the best hot chocolate in town or Colette's favorite Gelateria. Both amazing, just depends on your mood and the weather. Once refueled we head up to Piazzale Michelangelo for a breathtaking view of Florence. From here we continue our ascent to San Miniato, a Benedictine church built in the Romanesque period, 1014 - 1207. We visit and learn about its significance before settling in to be transported back in time by the monks' Gregorian chants. By the time we leave dusk has settled over Florence and the views of the city are spectacular. From here we head back down to the old city gate and I show you where you can enjoy an aperitivo at Florence's best wine bar. If you are interested I can then easily arrange reservations at a wonderful restaurant close-by where they serve delicious appetizer platters with typical Tuscan fare, huge tasty salads, great Florentine steak, pasta and wooden-oven baked pizza. Mmm.

For full information please email us at info@tastetuscany.co.uk