Florence Style & Design: Past & Present

The cradle and muse of mythical masters of art, architecture and craft (Giotto, Donatello, Michelangelo—to name a few), Florence reverberates with a beauty and depth of feeling that is centuries-deep, and beyond compare. On this special trip, explore the city—past and present—through the stories of some of its great families and creatives. With Indagare founder Melissa Biggs Bradley—who scouted the itinerary this spring—you will explore the rich heritage of the Medici and spend time with Laudomia Pucci, who will share her family’s archives, legacy and continuing innovation during a visit to their 600-year-old palazzo, as well as their villa in Tuscany. Other special experiences include tours of the Galleria Continua and top collections with their curators, meetings with local artisans and other invitations behind closed doors—in a discovery of Florence that bridges the ancient and the modern.

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What to Expect

Highlights of this itinerary include the opportunity to:

  • Gain exclusive access to the Emilio Pucci Heritage, where you will explore the archives of the iconic Florentine brand and enjoy a private lunch at Palazzo Pucci, the residence of the Pucci family and previous headquarters of the Maison until 2017.
  • Visit Villa Pucci di Granaiolo, the Pucci family’s Tuscan estate, for behind-closed-doors access to Laudomia Pucci’s archives and private museum, as well as printings and fabrication of the renowned brand.
  • Join acclaimed art historian Elaine Ruffolo on a walking tour of central Florence to discover the unique architecture and history of the city.
  • Embark on a walking tour of the artisans of Florence, to meet the craftspeople and observe their skills. You will be introduced to hand-marbled paper makers, bookbinders, shoemakers, silversmiths and contemporary leather designers.
  • Experience opera arias and ensemble pieces performed by four of the Fondazione Mascarade Opera’s emerging artists, followed by a private farewell dinner in the state rooms of the Palazzo Corsini al Prato.
  • Enjoy luxury accommodations at The St. Regis Florence, a property situated in one of the most iconic positions in all of Florence.
  • Connect with fellow travelers who share your interests and passions over meals and tastings at some of the best restaurants and vineyards in Florence and Tuscany.
  • Worry less, experience more: Indagare’s expert team will help you navigate a safe and rewarding travel experience. Plus: you’ll have complimentary 24/7 access to the emergency medical, security and evacuation services of Global Rescue on the ground.

Please note that elements of the itinerary may change.

The health and safety of our travelers is our No. 1 priority. We are committed to upholding the highest safety standards, while providing world-class hospitality and a seamless travel experience. For any questions, please reach out to our team at insiderjourneys@indagare.com.

Past
  • When
    October 9 – 14, 2023
  • Length
    6 days / 5 nights
  • Type of Traveler
    Art Lovers , Style Mavens , Intellectuals

This Journey's Host

INDAGARE FOUNDER & CEO MELISSA BIGGS BRADLEY

After a successful career as an editor at Town & Country, Melissa founded Indagare in 2007 because she believed that creating a platform for exchange between passionate travelers would allow for more transformative journeys and meaningful global connections. Since then, she has been recognized as a pioneering entrepreneur in the luxury travel space, as well as one of the foremost experts on travel to Africa. She has visited more than 100 countries over the course of her travels and has scouted extensively in Italy. Melissa’s first book, Safari Style: Exceptional African Camps and Lodges, was released in the fall of 2021. This September, Melissa was named host of a new radio show and podcast on SiriusXM, Passport to Everywhere.

ON THIS TRIP, YOU WILL ALSO SPEND TIME TOURING WITH ART HISTORIAN ELAINE RUFFOLO

Elaine Ruffolo is a Renaissance art historian, with a special interest in 15th-century patronage. She has lectured for Syracuse and Stanford University in Florence, and she has designed academic travel programs for the Smithsonian, the Clark and Telfair Museums, Atlanta High Museum, Yale University Alumni, the College of William & Mary and the Patrons of the Vatican Museums.

Curious to receive the full itinerary and join the trip? Contact us and find out more.

Trip Details

In preparation for the journey, members will also receive a comprehensive departure package that includes an itinerary, packing list, accommodations overview and other important information.

  • When
    October 9 – 14, 2023
  • Length
    6 days / 5 nights
  • Group Size
    Up to 16 travelers
  • Host
    Melissa Biggs Bradley

Includes

  • Five nights’ accommodation at The St. Regis Florence. Indagare can arrange higher category accommodation upgrades, subject to availability.
  • All meals and beverages, as detailed in the itinerary
  • All guided touring, admission fees and activities, as detailed in the itinerary
  • All gratuities
  • Group transfers by car and plane throughout Italy to all included stops
  • Expert guides and drivers, including your host, Melissa Biggs Bradley, and the 24/7 support of Indagare’s partners on the ground
  • The services of Indagare’s expert travel team to plan all Journey details, international flights and trip extensions for those who want to arrive early or stay later in the arrival or departure cities (costs not included)
  • 24/7 access to Global Rescue emergency medical services for the duration of the trip

Excludes

  • Transportation to/from Florence and airport transfers to/from the hotel
  • Meals not specified and premium or alcoholic beverages
  • Optional activities and personal items and expenses
  • Trip insurance (highly recommended—please let us know if you would like to see quotes)
  • Custom trip planning for add-on travel to destinations not included in the Journey is available; please inquire
  • Liability for change in itinerary due to reasons beyond our control (such as flights, cancellations, natural phenomena)
Curious to receive the full itinerary and join the trip? Contact us and find out more.

What To Read

Indagare has selected articles from our website and magazine to prepare you for your journey. Peruse inspiring slideshows, insider tips, reading lists and more.

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