First International Scholar’s Trip to Vinci!

After an early morning at Gatwick we arrived at Pisa and got on a coach heading to the beautiful village of Vinci. As the name suggests it is the birthplace of Leonardo Da Vinci, which we got to explore with a guided tour. Then we continued on our journey to Florence, checking into the hotel and having a lovely dinner. Then we went out in the dark to have our first look at the Duomo. On the way back we stopped at a supermarket and bought supplies for a charcuterie board which proved to be very popular with the other guests at the hotel!
The next day, following breakfast, we made our way to the Galleria dell’Accademia, walking through narrow streets and beautiful architecture. Inside the gallery we were surrounded by renaissance artworks – lots of babies and halos! The main attraction was the statue of David by Michelangelo, standing at the end of a long hallway, the crowds moved in an almost religious precession to stand at his feet. We had some free time during lunch to explore Florence, then in the afternoon we climbed Giotto’s Bell Tower, and even though it was 414 steps to the top the views were worth it! We rounded the day off well, in the pool and gelato by the river.
Saturday began with a trip to the Uffuzi Gallery, with seemingly unending halls of statues and paintings, followed by a break for lunch where we ate more gelato than I would like to admit. Next a walking tour of the city before going into the Museo Galileo. Finally, a return to the hostel for some time in the pool and the return of the evening charcuterie board.
Soon enough, the last day came, and after packing up our luggage and having our last breakfast at the hostel, we headed back into the centre of Florence to take a trip photo in front of the iconic Ponte Vecchio. Then, we were given a few hours of free time before getting onto the coach to Pisa, our final port of call. After a little while sat on the coach, we finally saw the famous figure of the Leaning Tower of Pisa, 294 steps tall! At the top, we marvelled at the breathtaking panoramic view of the rolling hills and lush greenery of the Tuscan landscape. Our awe was soon interrupted by the deafening ringing of the seven huge bells right next to us at the top of the tower. After descending the tower, we were given a bit of free time before needing to head off to the airport. Then, marking the end of our trip, we headed to the airport and back to England, full of wonderful memories of our time in Florence.