Tuscany & the Italian Riviera - WTAJ TV

Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, this city was the world capital of art in the 15th century! On our walking tour, we admire one of the most famous sculptures in the world, Michelangelo’s David, and observe the architectural beauty of the Duomo. See how it dominates Florence’s skyline and view Giorgio Vasari’s fresco painting, Last Judgment, beneath the dome. We also spend time shopping at the famous Ponte Vecchio Bridge, a medieval arched bridge constructed of stone that was astonishingly spared during World War II.

Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands,” is a collection of five coastal villages perched on terraced hillsides high above the Ligurian coast. Together, they make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s famous for its natural and cultural history. Arrive by rail on the Cinque Terre Express to visit the villages of Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Discover pastel and brightly painted buildings, picturesque harbors filled with traditional fishing boats, winding cliff pathways, and quaint, cobbled streets. During leisure time, you may enjoy walking along clear-water beaches or sipping a local dry white specialty wine from a patio overlooking the sea.

Take a relaxing boat ride to the Pearl of The Italian Riviera. Located on its own peninsula, this popular resort town boasts bright vegetation, pastel-colored houses, high-end boutiques, and a small harbor. Time at leisure can be spent seeing the yellow-bricked Church of San Giorgio, the castle and hanging gardens at Castello Brown, the lighthouse beside the Gulf of Tigullio, and the 14th-century Gothic Oratory of Santa Maria Assunta.

Known as the Piazza dei Miracoli in Italian, this iconic site is a stunning blend of history and architectural beauty with timeless white marble buildings, such as the Piazza del Duomo. At the heart of the square stands the worldfamous Leaning Tower of Pisa, one of Italy’s most significant landmarks that has captured attention around the globe for centuries due to its gravity-defying tilt.

Step back in time while exploring this medieval hilltop town that predates the 8th century with ancient fortress walls. Visit the Palazzo dei Priori to see medieval frescoes and a bell tower with unbeatable views, admire the cathedral’s marble entrance, and wander the well-preserved Roman Theatre from the 1st century BC. We also watch a skilled alabaster carving, a centuries-old tradition that involves sculpting exquisite works of art from translucent rock!