Embark on a journey through the timeless beauty of Italy with this 10-day classic tour. Get ready to be awestruck by the splendor of Venice and Florence before heading to the eternal city of Rome. Discover the magic of Venice as you glide through the grand canals on a traditional gondola ride while an expert guide regales you with exclusive stories about the palaces, churches, and other hidden gems that only Venetians know. Experience the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany while savoring the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine and indulging in a wine-tasting session that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the region's renowned winemaking traditions. Explore the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Square, and the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime as you embark on this unforgettable journey through Italy's most beloved destinations.
Highlights
Explore Venice's canals in a gondola and take in the picturesque sights
Experience Michelangelo's masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel
Explore the vast galleries of the Vatican Museums
Admire the stunning medieval architecture of Siena
Savor authentic Tuscan specialties and indulge in the flavors of Italy
Drive through the idyllic Tuscan region and admire rolling hills and vineyards
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
Upon your arrival at Venice airport, be greeted by the city's breathtaking beauty. Your journey begins with a private water taxi ride, taking you across the famous Grand Canal. You will then check into your hotel, where you can settle into your room and indulge in a local dinner at one of Venice's esteemed restaurants.
Take a private walking tour to the city's heart, Piazza San Marco. This square is so breathtaking that Napoleon called it the “most elegant drawing room in Europe.” Admire the stunning Medieval golden mosaics and treasures of the Basilica on an insider's visit. Afterward, enjoy some free time to have lunch on your own before continuing with a fascinating private workshop on the art of mask making. Learn this ancient craft's techniques and secrets from an expert artisan, and unleash your creativity while making your own Venetian mask.
Embark on a fascinating journey to Murano and discover the secrets of the island's ancient glassmaking traditions that date all the way back to the 13th century. Witness skilled artisans at work as they create exquisite glass objects during a private visit to an exclusive glassblowing factory. Afterward, indulge in a delightful wine-tasting experience on the idyllic island of Mazzorbo, where a local vineyard has thrived for centuries despite the challenges of the high tide, producing a unique wine with exceptional flavors. Take some time to explore the charming and colorful village of Burano during an independent lunch break, before returning to Venice for a relaxing afternoon at leisure.
Today, you step into the enchanting world of Florence after an exhilarating transfer on Italy's high-speed train. Upon arriving in Florence, check in to your hotel, where you can take a breather before embarking on a private walking tour of the historic center. Feel the city's rich history come alive while exploring the charming Piazza della Repubblica and discovering the city's ancient Roman roots. Meander through the labyrinthine streets, past medieval fortified houses and towers, and emerge onto the magnificent Piazza della Signoria - the political hub of Florence since the Middle Ages. Explore the renowned Accademia Gallery, one of the world’s premier sculpture museums, which is celebrated for its extraordinary collection of Michelangelo’s works. Among its treasures is the iconic David, a Renaissance masterpiece that symbolizes Florence, embodying the spirit and freedom of the Florentine Republic.
Join your expert local guide for a delightful two-hour culinary tour of Florence’s Central Market, a haven for food enthusiasts. Set within a striking cast-iron structure dating back to 1874, this vibrant market is home to countless vendors showcasing the finest ingredients of Tuscan cuisine. Immerse yourself in the rich flavors of the region as you explore and savor a selection of authentic local delicacies.
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to San Gimignano, a stunning hilltop town and UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its 14 iconic medieval towers. From there, journey into the heart of the Tuscan countryside to settle into your charming boutique hotel, surrounded by serene landscapes.
Step back in time and discover a Sienese district's hidden gems and traditions, known as a Contrada. Immerse yourself in the magic of this place, where the costumes are carefully maintained, and the drums are conserved. Watch skilled seamstresses sew the beautiful silk flags, just as they did over a century ago. This is a unique opportunity to experience the slow-paced life that still characterizes Siena. You can have the chance to meet and chat with friendly locals on a fascinating walking tour. Afterward, take some leisure time to explore Siena on your own, perhaps stopping for a delicious lunch at a local trattoria. In the evening, return to your hotel.
After breakfast, take a private transfer to Florence railway station to board a high-speed train to Rome. Arriving in the Eternal City, check into your accommodations located in the heart of Rome. In the afternoon, join an art historian guide to explore the Baroque historic center of the city. Stroll through the picturesque Piazza del Popolo, wander the charming via Margutta street lined with galleries and ateliers, marvel at the majestic Piazza di Spagna with its iconic Steps and the Barcaccia fountain, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for good luck, and admire the impressive Pantheon and Piazza Navona.
Begin your day in Vatican City with a visit to the renowned Vatican Museums. Admire two of Michelangelo's greatest masterpieces: the breathtaking Genesis ceiling frescoes and the dramatic Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel. Continue to St. Peter's Basilica, the heart of Christendom, and marvel at its grandeur.
After a leisurely lunch on your own, dive into the splendor of ancient Rome—step inside the iconic Colosseum, the monumental amphitheater that once hosted 50,000 spectators for gladiatorial battles. Conclude your journey at the Roman Forum, a sprawling complex of historic piazzas and structures, once the ancient empire's vibrant political and social epicenter.
Day 10: Return Home
1 Breakfast
As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, it's time to say farewell to the beautiful city of Rome. After indulging in a delicious breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
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Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$7,9912-3 travelers
Notes
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Pricing fluctuates by season. For the most current pricing and details, please request a quote from a Trip Planner.
Initial deposit is 20%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 70 days (10 weeks) prior to departure by bank transfer, check, or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and a maximum of $20,000 charge
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
The immediate response and knowledge of the tours. Jess was terrific with accessing our budget and type of tour.
Tiffani LoBue
6 hours ago
Easy to book
Matt Hunter
8 hours ago
This is the 5th trip Kassandra has planned for us, and if it is anything like the last four, it will be beyond perfect. Kassandra listens intently to each traveler's individual interests, and blends that information beautifully into a spectacular trip that is made to order. She is completely open to suggestions and uses her vast knowledge to enhance the experience. I am sure that as soon as we return from our latest adventure, Kassandra will be busy planning our next perfect excursion!
Sallie
3 days ago
Kassandra Magruder from Adventure Life planned an amazing trip for us again. She listens to what you want and makes suggestions concerning accommodations and activities. She is very responsive and timely concerning any questions I had.
We were choosing between two different places and she priced out both trips.
She is very happy to help!
Emily Shepard
5 days ago
Adventure Life has done a great job helping us plan both an Arctic and an Antarctic expedition cruise. We trust them completely!