About This Trip
Traverse northern and central Italy and discover architectural and artistic treasures on this journey. Marvel at St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, a jewel of Byzantine architecture, and Rome's Colosseum, the world's largest amphitheater. Gain insight into Renaissance masters like Michelangelo and Raphael through Vatican Museums. Witness mask-making and glassblowing artisans in Venice.
Roam Lucca's well-preserved medieval walls encircling elegant Renaissance palazzos and stroll Pisa's riverfront dotted by the Leaning Tower. Top experiences off with a hands-on cooking class, learning authentic recipes from Italy's diverse regions.
Itinerary Summary
- DAYPLACE
- 1 - 2Venice
- 3Venice - Florence
- 4Florence
- 5Lucca, Pisa
- 6Florence - Rome
- 7 - 9Rome
Itinerary
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Day 1: Venice, Arrival
Upon arriving in Venice, a water taxi awaits to convey you into the heart of the floating city, gliding amongst palaces and gazing back from the lagoon's reflective waters.
A dedicated concierge will ensure your experience is seamlessly arranged from the moment of arrival. The rest of the day, wander leisurely through streets where history lives, stumbling upon treasures in tucked away corners.
- Venice
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Day 2: Venice City Highlights Tour
This morning, your guide shall escort you on foot to St. Mark's Square. Nearby stand the golden-domed Basilica and ornate Doge's Palace, whose interiors you will explore to soak in their storied splendor. Next, a memorable cultural experience awaits - a glassblowing demonstration, where artisans plied their fiery craft as you watch in awe.
In the afternoon, head to the mask atelier to discover the traditions and artisans' secrets behind Venice's most famous masks. Alternatively, meet your guide for a private boat ride to Burano Island. Take in lovely lacework at the museum and colorful homes lighting the shore.
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- Venice
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Day 3: Venic - Florence, Bologna Walking Tour
After transferring by private water taxi to Piazzale Roma, meet your driver for a transfer to Bologna.
Upon arrival, meet your local guide to discover the historic center's architectural treasures. Possible highlights include the Basilica di San Petronio with its impressive Gothic facade, and Piazza Maggiore, an elegant open-air square bordered by museums and arcaded cafes. Conclude the tour with a tasty lunch featuring regional delights like tortellini. Afterward, your driver will take you to Florence.
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- Florence
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Day 4: Florence City Exploration
Begin your day of Renaissance exploration by meeting your local guide at the hotel. Wind your way through narrow medieval streets and admire Michelangelo's masterpiece, David. As you continue through the historic center, marvel at elegant open piazzas such as Piazza della Repubblica, surrounded by neoclassical facades, and Piazza Santa Croce lined with arcaded buildings.
Next, stop upon the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge to take in charming scenes of gold and silver shops glittering between structures that overlook the idyllic Arno River flowing below. This afternoon, your guide will introduce you to two local artisans who will show you characteristic arts.
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- Florence
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Day 5: Lucca & Pisa Full Day Tour
Morning departure for your daily excursion with the driver. The first stop will be the medieval walled city of Lucca, renowned for its Renaissance architecture and leisurely pace of life, where you will be greeted by your first local guide. Have the chance to do a beautiful bike tour, circling Lucca's most magnificent villa along tree-lined lanes.
Then, the route continues to the riverside city of Pisa, fondly known for its iconic Leaning Tower yet filled with more medieval treasures hidden among its warren narrow streets.
Accompanied by a specialist food and wine guide, discover the history and contemporary scene of Pisan cuisine. Afterward, scale the iconic Leaning Tower for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Then, enjoy some free time then return to Florence.
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- Florence
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Day 6: Florence - Rome, Siena & Piazza del Campo
Meet your driver for a scenic journey to the medieval city of Siena. Upon arrival, your local guide will share the illustrious history during a fascinating tour of the historic center. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Piazza del Campo, the site of Siena's famous Palio horserace.
Next, Visit the city center and the Museum of the Palio (schedule permitting). Then, savor a Tuscan-style lunch with wine at a local winery nestled in the countryside near Siena and continue to Rome with your driver.
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- Rome
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Day 7: Vatican Walking Tour
You'll begin your day with a private tour of St. Peter's Basilica and the iconic Vatican Museums, led by your knowledgeable local guide. Wander through galleries housing classical sculptures, Renaissance works, and the extensive collection of Egyptian antiquities.
In the afternoon, continue your walking tour in the city Centre to discover the city's heart, exploring the most important squares and buildings.
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- Rome
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Day 8: Roman Forum With Colosseum, Cooking Class
Begin your day exploring one of the most iconic sites of ancient Rome alongside your dedicated private guide and driver. Marvel at the well-preserved ruins of the Roman Forum and towering Colosseum, where gladiators once fought. Learn about the glory of the Roman Empire during this fascinating walking tour.
After, spend your free time discovering Rome's treasures, perhaps visiting monuments or browsing boutiques. Cap your day experiencing Italian culture hands-on in a cooking class, whether tossing your pizza dough, crafting homemade pasta and tiramisu, or learning Gelato's sweet secrets.
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- Rome
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Day 9: Rome, Departure
It is now time to leave as your tour of Italy has come to an end. Before your private driver transfers you to the airport, be sure to do a final check that you have all of your Italian souvenirs for home.
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