Inside our itineraries - Live la dolce vita with our Italy experts

Make the most of your next Mediterranean escape with insider knowledge courtesy of our Portofino, Florence and Tuscany tour managers, Elisabetta Bricali and Anna Volpi.

Italy is a destination which needs no introduction, and few of its regions match the timeless allure of wine-making Tuscany and the glittering towns of the Italian Riviera. There are a few things to consider, though, before you make your trip and, whether you’re an Italy afficionado or are new to this part of Europe, knowing the ins-and-outs of your chosen destination can make a world of difference.  

What better way to get to grips with the finer details, must-sees and lesser-known secrets of this delightful area that in conversation with two local experts? Our team has recently sat down with our tour managers, Elisabetta and Anna, for a chat about their top travel tips for travellers. Here are just a few of the insights they had to share.

What drew you to managing this tour? 

Elisabetta: I was born in Florence, I live in Pistoia, and I love the sea, especially Portofino and the Cinque Terre! What more could I ask for? 

Anna: The leisurely pace and how it involves all the senses. Tuscany is known for its beautiful scenery, good food and wine, and gorgeous art. What's not to love? Besides all this, Montecatini is a relaxing town where one can indulge in strolls in the park or a spa day. It’s a tour that leaves you satisfied, relaxed, and curious to know more about Italy.

How long have you been managing tours in this region?

Elisabetta: I love my job and have been managing these tours in Tuscany for more than 20 years. 

Anna: I started bringing people through Tuscany in 2018 – it never gets old.

What aspects of this itinerary stand out most to you?

Elisabetta: This itinerary gives me the chance to change scenery every day, like in a theatre! That means history, villages, and the sea. 

Anna: I enjoy the blend it offers: cities, towns, nature, hills, and the sea.

What’s your favourite part of guiding customers through this tour? 

Elisabetta: I am very much in love with the Tuscan countryside in Siena and San Gimignano, the real Tuscany, with friendly people and great food. 

Anna: Their amazement. Even people who have already been to Italy, and maybe even to Tuscany, still find something that makes their day. Listening to them speak about the beauty they discover is heartwarming.

Can you share a standout moment or unforgettable experience from this tour? 

Elisabetta: Arriving by boat in the small bay of Portofino, between the Brown Castle and the Church of San Giorgio, is certainly unforgettable. The ferry ride from Santa Margherita, with its beautiful shops and painted houses, is another highlight. 

Anna: A couple once asked me about a particular restaurant in Lucca and couldn’t believe what I told them until they saw it with their own eyes. They laughed so much on the way back to Montecatini talking about their experience. But I won’t give any spoilers here – you’ll have to see for yourself!

Are there any local secrets or hidden gems in Portofino, Florence, or Tuscany that customers should look out for? 

Elisabetta: I recommend medieval Florence, via S. Elisabetta and Piazza S. Elisabetta, a little gem between Piazza Duomo and Piazza Signoria, where you can walk along narrow, shaded streets, avoiding the crowds, and enjoy street food. 

Anna: Try Cialde di Montecatini di Bargilli (almond cookies), the bignès with homemade whipped cream at an unassuming bar near the port in Santa Margherita, the taproom with friendly staff in Montecatini, and the handmade and used trinkets market in San Gimignano.

What advice do you have for customers to make the most of their time in these destinations?

Elisabetta: Establish a good rapport with the tour manager, who can provide valuable advice. Listen to the local guides. Rest in the evening at the hotel and take the opportunity to meet new people. If you have a free day, I recommend visiting Pistoia, a lovely city not on the itinerary but reachable by train from Montecatini in just 10 minutes. 

Anna: Some people like to do research beforehand, but if you don’t, please ask the tour managers for advice when you arrive. Tell them what you’re interested in and see if they have any suggestions. However, don’t overfill your days – pick one or two must-see places and leave the rest of the time for spontaneous discoveries. 

How do you ensure customers feel connected and engaged during the tour? 

Elisabetta: It’s essential to establish a connection at the welcome reception in Montecatini. I introduce myself, assist with check-in, and have dinner with the group to make sure everyone is comfortable. The next day, at the welcome meeting, I ensure they know they can trust me. 

Anna: I ask questions! Did you enjoy the food? What was your favourite moment today? Did you learn something new? These conversations happen on the bus, while walking, or at dinner. Every tour is unique because the guests change, so listening to their experiences is always interesting. I also like to teach Italian hand gestures on the bus – it’s always fun!

How do you approach balancing scheduled activities with free time for customers? 

Elisabetta: It’s not easy to find the right balance if guests choose to do all the optional excursions, as we leave early and return late. However, Montecatini offers shops open until 8pm, stunning views from Montecatini Alto via the historic funicular, and a fantastic opera season every Friday evening. 

Anna: Some guests ask about specific activities they want to do on their own, like an opera concert at Tettuccio, Puccini’s house museum in Lucca, or museums in Florence. I help them figure out the logistics and the best timing so they can enjoy everything without feeling rushed. Others just want to wander, and I offer suggestions based on their interests. 

What’s one item you recommend customers pack for this tour to enhance their experience? 

Elisabetta: Rain gear, because sometimes it rains in Italy too, especially in spring. 

Anna: A portable tea kettle! Italy isn’t big on tea, so if you want hot water in your room, pack accordingly. On a fun note: bring a disposable film camera. Yes, take digital pictures, but shooting on film means you’ll go home, wait for it to be developed, and then relive your memories in a special way. 

Enjoy a wish-list escape to the Italian Riviera with Newmarket Holidays 

Now equipped with expert insight from our tour managers, Elisabetta and Anna, why not put some of these tips to the test with your own unforgettable Mediterranean holiday? To book your spot, or perhaps just talk through your options, give our team of holiday planners. You can also find our full itineraries, and a range of other Italian tours, on our website.