Retreat | Italy | The Renaissance Experience

Florence & Ferrara Italy
MAY 2027
The Renaissance Experience
Ferrara & Florence -May 26–30, 2027
Five Days of History, Art, Adventure, Italian Traditions & the Art of the Sword
Step into the extraordinary world of Renaissance Italy with Adrian Paul and The Sword Experience, where magnificent cities, artistic masterpieces, fascinating history and authentic Italian traditions await.
Your journey begins in Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where you’ll discover the magnificent Duomo, cross the iconic Ponte Vecchio (where Adrian’s grandfather worked as a goldsmith), and explore the grandeur of the Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens. You’ll not only stand before Michelangelo’s legendary David, admire the masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery and marvel at Leonardo da Vinci’s remarkable inventions, but also discover Florence’s irresistible charm as you wander its picturesque streets, explore lively markets and enjoy exceptional Tuscan cuisine.
Beyond its famous landmarks, Adrian will share personal memories of his childhood, including Piazza Santo Spirito, where his parents first met and where he spent countless summer days playing as a boy. And, of course, he’ll introduce you to some of his favorite gelato spots!
Ferrara, won’t disappoint you either. In one of Italy’s most beautifully preserved Renaissance cities, you’ll visit imposing castles, elegant palaces and atmospheric medieval streets. While exploring sites, such as the magnificent Castello Estense, the historic city walls, the enchanting Via delle Volte and Vicolo dei Duelli, once associated with the city’s dueling past, you’ll discover a world of noble families, intrigue and centuries-old traditions.
And no Sword Experience tour would be complete without the thrill of the sword! Imagine discovering the excitement of sword training in a setting steeped in history. And swordsmanship isn’t the only skill you’ll develop! You’ll try your hand at authentic Italian pasta-making, while tasting the mouth watering culinary traditions of Emilia-Romagna, beginning with the traditional Italian aperitivo, followed by delicious regional specialties and exceptional wines.
Far more than an ordinary tour, this is your opportunity to immerse yourself in the art, history, flavors and traditions of Renaissance Italy while witnessing the pageantry and excitement of Ferrara’s historic Palio horse races.
Places are limited, so secure yours and be part of an extraordinary adventure you won’t want to miss!
The Sword Experience: A Cut Above the Rest.
This is a preliminary tour overview. Activities, locations and sword training sessions are subject to confirmation.
Choose your tickets
Buying for a group? Add each attendee's name. Your receipt goes to the email you enter below.
EXCITING TOUR OVERVIEW
WHAT’S INCLUDED
The Renaissance Sword Experience – Ferrara & Florence, Italy 2027!
- Historic Italian Destinations: Explore the Renaissance cities of Ferrara and Florence.
- Unforgettable Historic Sites & Experiences:
- Ferrara Castle (Castello Estense)
- Strada della Morte (The Road of Death)
- Church of San Domenico and the Mark of the Devil
- Palazzo dei Diamanti
- Vicolo dei Duelli (The Alley of Duels)
- The Historic Walls of Ferrara
- Unique Cultural Experiences:
- Discover the legends, mysteries, and darker history of Renaissance Italy
- Explore traditional Italian taverns, including the historic Al Brindisi
- Experience the medieval atmosphere of La Mandragola
- Opportunities to explore Ferrara’s historic city walls by bicycle
- Potential live historical duel demonstration in costume
PLUS… An unforgettable adventure with memories to last a lifetime!
*Schedule is subject to change. Please check ticket options below to see all perks.*
$750 DEPOSIT (PER PERSON)
A $750 deposit per person reserves your priority place on the Highlander Tour.
Once tickets are released, you’ll have 10 days to confirm your participation by email. Your deposit remains fully refundable until you do, after which it becomes non-refundable. If you decline or don’t respond, you’ll receive a full refund.
If the tour is unable to proceed as planned, all reservation deposits will be refunded in full.
Final payment for tickets will be due between January 1st and January 15th.
For monthly installments, email-contact@swordxp.com.
Learn about Payment Plan options through PayPal Credit HERE.
Please note that an additional 7% service fee will be reflected at checkout.
.
$3900-$4100 TOUR SINGLE (Double Bed or upgrade)
Accommodation for 1 person
All breakfasts and minimum 2 lunches
Please note: this ticket includes 1 room with 1 double bed at each location.
Transportation to tour locations
Sword Training with Adrian Paul at iconic locations
Your own bokken to take home (if participating in training)
A short edited video of the tour
SXP T-Shirt
1 Pre-Selected Signed Highlander Photo
Learn about Payment Plan options through PayPal Credit HERE.
Please note that an additional 7% service fee will be reflected at checkout.
double bed or upgrade
$7200-$7300 TOUR DELUXE 2 people (1 shared double bed or upgrade)
Accommodation for 2 people
All breakfasts and minimum 2 lunches
Please note: this ticket includes 1 room up to 2 people. Double or King bed at each location.
Transportation to tour locations
Sword Training with Adrian Paul at iconic locations
Your own bokken to take home (if participating)
A short edited video of the tour
SXP T-Shirt
1 Pre-Selected Signed Highlander Photo
Learn about Payment Plan options through PayPal Credit HERE.
Please note that an additional 7% service fee will be reflected at checkout.
double bed or upgrade
$7450 TOUR TWIN 2 people Separate Beds
Accommodation for 2 people
All breakfasts and minimum 2 lunches
Please note: this ticket includes 1 room with 2 twin size beds at each location or upgrade if available for larger bed options.
Transportation to tour locations
Sword Training with Adrian Paul at iconic locations
Your own bokken to take home (if participating)
A short edited video of the tour
SXP T-Shirt
1 Pre-Selected Signed Highlander Photo
Learn about Payment Plan options through PayPal Credit HERE.
Please note that an additional 7% service fee will be reflected at checkout.
double bed or upgrade
FAQ
**All answers listed are ONLY recommendations and we encourage all travelers to do their own due diligence in research before making any purchases**
Q) Where does the Italy tour begin?
A) The tour begins in Florence.
Q)What airport is recommended?
A) We recommend flying into Florence Airport.
Q)Is there transportation from the hotels to locations?
A)The transportation for the arrival and departure of the tour to the hotel is up to each individual as everyone will be arriving and departing at varying times.
Q) What nights are included at hotels?
A) May 26th, 27th, 28th, & 29th
Q) Can I make my own way on the Italy Tour?
A) This is not currently an available option but may be added later on.
Q)Can I take photos and videos on the tours?
A)Yes!
Q)Will Adrian Paul be teaching at the SXP events?
A)Yes!
Q) What Kind of Currency Should I Bring?
A) It’s always advisable to have cash in addition to cards. Whether you choose to withdraw cash from an ATM or bring U.S. dollars to exchange for Euros (€) is a personal choice. Italy uses the Euro as its official currency.
Q) What Size Luggage Can I Bring?
A) Due to limited luggage space when traveling by taxi and train, each guest is allowed one medium-sized suitcase and one small personal bag or purse. Please keep in mind that guests will be responsible for handling and transporting their own luggage throughout the tour.
.
EVENT DETAILS & RESTRICTIONS:
- All Participants must READ, DIGITALLY SIGN, & SUBMIT the following three forms before purchase:
1. TERMS & CONDITIONS
2. RELEASE OF LIABILITY
3. IMAGE RELEASE - No photos or videos are allowed during the Sword event.
- Participants must be 18 years old. 15-18 years olds can participate with parental consent and a minimum height of 4 feet, 6 inches tall. PARENTAL CONSENT FORMS must be filled out and submitted prior to the event.
- Photos taken by The Sword Experience staff will be sent and posted after the event for participants to download.Learn about Payment Plan options through PayPal Credit HERE.
Please note that an additional 7% service fee will be reflected at checkout.
Our Return Policy is listed under Terms of Use page.
