The Grand Tour of Italy

Day 1

Arrival in Rome
Stay in Palazzo Manfredi 5*

Welcome to the Eternal City! After arriving in Rome, you will settle into your hotel and take a moment to relax after your journey, with views over the Colosseum.

 In the afternoon, consider an introductory stroll around the Centro Storico, Rome’s historic centre. Admire the Piazza Navona, with its famous fountains by Bernini, and the Pantheon, a 2,000-year-old marvel of ancient engineering. Enjoy a gelato or espresso while soaking in the atmosphere of these iconic sites. As the evening sets in, explore the cobbled streets illuminated by the golden hues of sunset.

For dinner, indulge in traditional Roman cuisine at a charming trattoria. You might want to visit the Trevi Fountain to toss a coin, ensuring your return to Rome, and savour the vibrant energy of the city. Afterwards, rest up for the adventures ahead, knowing that Rome’s treasures await you.

Overnight: Rome

Day 2

Colosseum, Palatine Hill & Roman Forum Guided Tour

After breakfast, meet your guide at your hotel’s lobby, to delve into Rome’s most visited attraction! Dive into ancient Roman history with a guided tour of the Colosseum, the world’s largest ancient amphitheatre. Walk through the arena and imagine the gladiatorial battles that once took place here. Just outside, marvel at the Arch of Constantine before continuing to Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome. Explore the ruins of imperial palaces and enjoy sweeping views of the city. With your guide, visit the sprawling Roman Forum, once the centre of Roman public life. Wander among the remains of temples, basilicas, and triumphal arches.

Finish your afternoon with a scenic view from the Victor Emmanuel II Monument and a relaxing dinner in the trendy Monti District.

Overnight:  Rome

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 3

Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica Guided Tour

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of the Vatican, delving into one of the world’s most iconic cultural and spiritual centres. Begin at the Vatican Museums, home to an incredible collection of art and artefacts spanning centuries. Marvel at masterpieces by Michelangelo, Raphael, and other renowned artists as you explore the galleries.

Continue to the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes, including the iconic Creation of Adam, will leave you in awe. End your tour at St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, where you can admire its stunning architecture, the famous Pietà by Michelangelo, and the grandeur of the central dome. Your guide will share fascinating insights throughout, bringing the history and artistry of these legendary sites to life.

Overnight: Rome

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 4

Leisurely Day in Rome

Today is yours to explore Rome at your own pace. Start with a morning stroll through Villa Borghese Park, a lush green space featuring museums, sculptures, and panoramic views. Art lovers can visit the Galleria Borghese to see works by Bernini and Caravaggio. Alternatively, explore the Jewish Ghetto with its rich history, charming streets, and mouth-watering kosher bakeries.

In the afternoon, wander through the picturesque neighbourhood of Trastevere, known for its narrow alleys, colourful buildings, and lively piazzas. Visit the beautiful Santa Maria in Trastevere church or climb Janiculum Hill for stunning city views. As evening falls, enjoy a candlelit dinner at a local trattoria, savouring dishes like cacio e pepe or carbonara.

Overnight:  Rome

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 5

Train to Florence
Stay in Hotel Brunelleschi 4*

Board a high-speed train to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. The journey offers stunning views of the Italian countryside. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and take a moment to settle in, in your elegant boutique hotel in the heart of Florence.

 Spend the afternoon wandering the Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the magnificent Florence Cathedral and its famous dome designed by Brunelleschi. Admire Giotto’s Campanile and the exquisite bronze doors of the Baptistry. Enjoy dinner at a local trattoria, savouring Tuscan favourites like bistecca alla Fiorentina. Afterwards, stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio, with its charming goldsmith shops, and soak in the tranquil beauty of the Arno River at sunset.

Overnight: Florence

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 6

Essential Guided Walking Tour of Florence

Immerse yourself in the artistic and historical wonders of Florence with a guided walking tour. Begin at the Piazza della Signoria, the city’s political heart, where the Palazzo Vecchio stands as a testament to Florence's medieval and Renaissance past. Admire the Loggia dei Lanzi, an open-air sculpture gallery, and the replica of Michelangelo's David. Stroll over to the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Raphael.

After a delicious Tuscan lunch, cross the Ponte Vecchio to the Oltrarno district. Visit the Pitti Palace and relax in the lush Boboli Gardens. Climb up to Piazzale Michelangelo for a breathtaking panoramic view of Florence. As evening falls, savour a traditional Florentine dinner and a glass of Chianti wine.

Overnight:  Florence

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 7

Uffizi Galleries Visit

Today is dedicated to exploring one of the world’s greatest art collections: the Uffizi Galleries. With your reserved tickets, bypass the queues and step into a treasure trove of Renaissance art. Highlights include Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus and Primavera, Leonardo da Vinci’s Annunciation, and Titian’s Venus of Urbino. Take your time appreciating the intricate details and revolutionary techniques of these masterpieces.

After the gallery visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby café. Spend the rest of the day leisurely exploring Florence’s charming streets and artisanal shops. Consider a visit to the Bargello Museum or the Basilica of Santa Croce, where Michelangelo and Galileo are buried. End the day with a sunset stroll along the Arno River.

Overnight: Florence

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 8

Train to Venice
Stay In Al Ponte Antico 4*

This morning, enjoy a scenic train ride to Venice, the magical City of Canals. As you arrive at Santa Lucia Station, the stunning views of the Grand Canal will immediately enchant you. Check into your hotel, a romantic boutique hotel with views of the Rialto Bridge, and spend the afternoon exploring the labyrinthine streets and bridges of Venice. Visit the iconic Rialto Bridge and explore the bustling Rialto Market.

As evening falls, take a gondola ride along the Grand Canal, passing elegant palazzos and illuminated bridges. For dinner, indulge in Venetian cuisine at a canal-side osteria, sampling dishes like sarde in saor (sweet and sour sardines) and risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto).

Overnight: Venice

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 9

Venice’s Tale: Highlights, Gelato & Gondola Tour

Discover Venice’s highlights on a guided tour. Begin in Piazza San Marco, often called “the world’s most beautiful drawing room.” Visit the majestic St. Mark’s Basilica, adorned with glittering mosaics, and explore the Doge’s Palace, with its opulent chambers and the iconic Bridge of Sighs. Stop at Caffè Florian, Italy’s oldest café, for a rich hot chocolate or espresso.

In the afternoon, wander the charming San Polo district, exploring hidden squares and artisan shops. Treat yourself to a gelato as you stroll along the canals. Round off your day with a gondola ride at sunset, soaking in Venice’s romantic atmosphere.

Overnight: Venice

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 10

Leisurely Day in Venice

Enjoy a leisurely day exploring Venice at your own pace. Start with a visit to the Cannaregio district, known for its authentic charm and the historic Jewish Ghetto. Stop by the Church of Madonna dell’Orto to see works by Tintoretto. Take a vaporetto to the colorful island of Burano, famed for its brightly painted houses and lace-making tradition.

In the afternoon, explore Murano, renowned for its glassblowing workshops. Watch artisans create intricate glass pieces and perhaps take home a souvenir. Return to Venice and enjoy a relaxed dinner along the Zattere Promenade, overlooking the Giudecca Canal.

Overnight: Venice

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 11

Train to Milan & Leisurely Afternoon
Stay In Hotel Spadari Al Duomo 4*

 Board a train to Milan, Italy’s fashion and financial capital. After checking into your hotel - a stylish boutique hotel - spend a leisurely afternoon exploring Milan’s historic centre. Visit the stunning Duomo di Milano, one of the world’s largest Gothic cathedrals. Climb to the rooftop for sweeping views of the city’s skyline and the distant Alps. Stroll through the glamorous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the world’s oldest shopping mall, and perhaps indulge in some retail therapy.

Enjoy an evening aperitivo in the chic Brera District or the lively Navigli Canal area, known for its vibrant nightlife and picturesque waterways. End the day with a delightful dinner at a traditional Milanese trattoria.

Overnight: Milan

Meals included: Breakfast

Day 12

Departure

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure. Take with you memories of Italy’s unique blend of history, culture, and timeless charm.

Meals included: Breakfast