Essential Italy
HIGHLIGHTS
🏛️ The Eternal City Walk through more than two thousand years of Roman history, from the Colosseum and Roman Forum to magnificent piazzas, fountains and Vatican treasures. 🎨 Renaissance Florence Experience the artistic heart of Italy through remarkable architecture, historic squares, the Arno and the timeless beauty of Tuscany. 🍷 A Taste of Tuscany Journey beyond Florence into the Tuscan countryside, discovering medieval towns, rolling landscapes and the flavours for which the region is celebrated. 🛶 Venice by Water Discover Venice from its atmospheric canals and bridges, complete with the quintessential experience of gliding through the city aboard a traditional gondola.
THE COLOSSEUM EXPERIENCE
Walk beneath the towering arches of the Colosseum, where tens of thousands once gathered to witness gladiatorial contests and extraordinary public spectacles. With an expert local guide, discover how this remarkable amphitheatre was designed, how its events were organised and what life was like for the gladiators who entered its arena. Stories of emperors, engineering and ancient Roman society transform the monument from an impressive ruin into a vivid chapter of history. Standing inside this extraordinary structure offers more than a view of Ancient Rome — it provides a powerful sense of the scale, ambition and influence of the Roman Empire.
VENICE BY GONDOLA
Step aboard one of Venice’s iconic gondolas and discover the city from the perspective that has defined it for centuries. As the gondola moves through the canals, admire elegant palaces, hidden waterways and historic bridges while experiencing a quieter and more intimate side of Venice away from the busiest pedestrian streets. The gentle rhythm of the canals, distinctive architecture and extraordinary setting make this one of the most memorable ways to experience the character and romance of Venice.
THE ROMAN FORUM EXPERIENCE
Step into the Roman Forum, the extraordinary archaeological landscape that once formed the political, religious and commercial heart of Ancient Rome. Walk along ancient routes once used by senators, citizens, soldiers and emperors, passing the remains of temples, basilicas and monumental arches that witnessed some of the most important moments in Roman history. With expert interpretation, the ruins begin to reveal the story of a city that governed an empire — from public ceremonies and political debates to religious traditions and everyday Roman life.
COLOURS OF THE VENETIAN LAGOON
Leave central Venice behind and travel across the lagoon towards Murano, an island internationally recognised for its centuries-old tradition of Venetian glassmaking. Visit a traditional glass workshop and watch skilled artisans demonstrate techniques passed down through generations before enjoying time to explore the island. Continue by boat to Burano, where brightly painted houses line peaceful canals and small artisan shops preserve the distinctive character of island life. Wander through its colourful streets, enjoy time for photography and experience a quieter side of the Venetian Lagoon before returning to Venice by boat.
RIALTO & THE CANALS OF VENICE
Continue through Venice’s narrow streets and hidden passageways towards the legendary Rialto Bridge, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks and a historic crossing over the Grand Canal. As you move through this lively district, discover the role Rialto once played in Venice’s commercial life, surrounded by traditional shops, waterfront views and atmospheric canals. The experience captures a more intimate side of Venice — away from the ceremonial grandeur of St. Mark’s Square and into the lanes, bridges and waterways that give the city its unmistakable rhythm.
TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE & CULINARY EXPERIENCE
Leave the historic cities behind and enter the landscapes that define Tuscany — rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves and traditional countryside estates. Settle into a carefully selected setting in the Chianti region and enjoy a Tuscan lunch inspired by local ingredients and regional culinary traditions. Depending on the selected venue, the experience may also introduce guests to locally produced olive oil and other traditional Tuscan specialities. More than simply a meal, this is an opportunity to slow the pace of the journey and experience Tuscany through its landscape, flavours and enduring relationship with the land.
THE VATICAN MUSEUMS EXPERIENCE
Step inside one of the world’s most remarkable museum complexes, where art, architecture and history unfold through a sequence of spectacular galleries and ceremonial spaces. With an expert guide, discover collections assembled over centuries by the popes, encountering classical sculptures, richly decorated halls, intricate tapestries and Renaissance masterpieces along the way. Beyond the individual works of art, the Vatican Museums reveal the extraordinary relationship between creativity, faith and power that shaped European history. Every corridor leads deeper into a cultural legacy that culminates in some of the most celebrated artistic spaces in the world.
DISCOVER THE TIMELESS ELEGANCE OF ETERNAL ROME
Leave the archaeological world behind and discover the Rome of grand piazzas, fountains and elegant streets. Begin around Piazza Venezia, where monumental architecture marks the transition between Ancient Rome and the historic city centre. Continue through atmospheric Roman streets toward the spectacular Trevi Fountain, one of the city’s most celebrated Baroque landmarks. The experience concludes at Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps, surrounded by historic façades, cafés and fashionable streets. Along the way, your guide reveals the stories, architecture and traditions that make central Rome as captivating today as it has been for centuries.
TOWERS OF TUSCANY
Arrive in one of Tuscany’s most distinctive medieval towns, where stone towers rise above vineyards and rolling hills to create an unmistakable skyline. Walk through San Gimignano’s historic centre, following narrow lanes into elegant piazzas surrounded by centuries-old architecture. Discover the remarkable tower houses that once represented the wealth and influence of powerful local families, while enjoying time to explore artisan shops, cafés and picturesque corners at a relaxed pace. Beyond its architecture, San Gimignano captures the romantic character travellers imagine when they think of Tuscany — medieval streets, warm stone, countryside views and a rhythm of life that feels wonderfully removed from the modern world.
THE SISTINE CHAPEL EXPERIENCE
Step into one of the most celebrated artistic spaces in the world and look upward to a ceiling that transformed the history of Western art. Michelangelo’s monumental frescoes surround visitors with dramatic biblical scenes, extraordinary figures and astonishing detail, culminating in the powerful Last Judgment behind the altar. Beyond its artistic importance, the Sistine Chapel remains a living part of Vatican tradition and the setting in which papal conclaves are held. The experience combines artistic genius, sacred heritage and centuries of history within one unforgettable room.
THE PALATINE HILL EXPERIENCE
Rise above the archaeological heart of Rome to Palatine Hill, a place woven deeply into the story of the Eternal City. According to Roman tradition, this was where Rome itself began. Centuries later, the hill became one of the most prestigious addresses in the ancient world, home to emperors and magnificent imperial residences. As you walk among the remains of palaces, courtyards and ancient structures, the scale and power of Imperial Rome become increasingly clear. The elevated setting also provides some of the most impressive views across the Roman Forum and surrounding archaeological landscape.
ST. PETER’S BASILICA EXPERIENCE
Enter the vast interior of St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most important churches in Christianity and an extraordinary achievement of Renaissance architecture. Discover remarkable artistic treasures including Michelangelo’s Pietà, Bernini’s monumental Baldachin and the soaring dome conceived by Michelangelo. As you explore the basilica, the combination of extraordinary scale, artistry and spiritual significance creates one of the defining experiences of Vatican City.
SIENA HISTORIC CENTRE
Enter the historic heart of Siena and wander through a remarkably preserved medieval cityscape shaped by narrow stone streets, grand civic buildings and distinctive Tuscan character. At the centre lies Piazza del Campo, Siena’s celebrated shell-shaped square and the stage for the city’s famous Palio tradition. Continue through atmospheric lanes towards the magnificent Siena Cathedral, admiring the city’s architecture and discovering the stories, rivalries and traditions that have defined Siena for generations. More intimate than Florence yet equally rich in character, Siena offers travellers a deeper glimpse into the medieval soul of Tuscany.
PIAZZA OF THE SERENISSIMA
Enter the magnificent Piazza San Marco, the ceremonial heart of Venice and a place that has welcomed merchants, rulers and travellers for centuries. Surrounded by the elegant façades of St. Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and historic arcades, the square reveals the grandeur of Venice at the height of its maritime power. With your guide, discover the stories behind the architecture, traditions and institutions that shaped the Venetian Republic while enjoying one of the city’s most atmospheric settings.
PACKAGE INFORMATION
8 Days / 7 Nights
Best Season: All Year Round
Daily Breakfast + Selected Culinary Experience
Solo Travelers • Families • Couples • Culture Buffs
Rome • Florence • Venice
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
Welcome to Rome
Arrival in the Eternal City
Your Italian journey begins in Rome, where ancient history, grand architecture and vibrant modern life come together. Upon arrival at Rome Fiumicino Airport, meet your local representative and transfer comfortably to your hotel. After check-in, the remainder of the day is intentionally kept at leisure, allowing you to relax after your journey and settle into the rhythm of the Italian capital. Depending on your arrival time, step out for your first glimpse of Rome — enjoy a coffee at a neighbourhood café, wander through an elegant piazza or simply spend the evening at your own pace. This relaxed first day prepares you for the discoveries ahead.
Imperial Rome
Colosseum, Ancient Rome & Iconic City Highlights
After breakfast, begin your first full day in Rome with a journey through the city's extraordinary ancient past. Start with the Colosseum, one of Italy's most recognizable landmarks and a powerful symbol of Imperial Rome. Continue through the archaeological heart of the city with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, discovering the remains of temples, public buildings and imperial residences that once shaped Roman life. Later, continue through central Rome to experience some of the city's most celebrated landmarks and piazzas.
Discover the monumental heart of Ancient Rome on a guided experience through the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. Explore the legendary amphitheatre, walk through the former political and commercial centre of the Roman Empire, and continue to Palatine Hill, once home to Rome’s emperors and offering impressive views across the archaeological area.
Explore the living heart of Rome on a guided walk connecting some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Beginning around Piazza Venezia, continue through atmospheric historic streets to the magnificent Trevi Fountain before concluding around Piazza di Spagna and the Spanish Steps. The experience combines architecture, local stories, photography and the everyday atmosphere of central Rome.
Vatican Treasures & Rome at Leisure
Art, Faith & the Heart of the Eternal City
After breakfast, begin the day with one of Rome’s most remarkable cultural experiences — a guided visit to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Walk through extraordinary galleries filled with centuries of art and history before entering the Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo’s celebrated frescoes. Continue towards St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s most significant religious and architectural landmarks. After the guided experience, the remainder of the afternoon is deliberately kept at leisure, giving guests time to discover Rome independently. Explore nearby neighbourhoods, enjoy lunch at a local trattoria, shop along Via del Corso, visit Piazza Navona and the Pantheon, or simply relax at a café and experience Roman life at your own pace.
Discover the artistic and spiritual treasures of Vatican City on a guided journey through the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica. Explore magnificent galleries filled with centuries of paintings, sculptures, tapestries and historic works before entering the legendary Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s extraordinary frescoes create one of the most memorable artistic experiences in Italy. Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, renowned for its monumental architecture, extraordinary interior and masterpieces of Renaissance art. Throughout the experience, an expert local guide brings the history, personalities and stories of the Vatican to life.
Rome to Florence
Journey into the Renaissance
After breakfast, check out from your Rome hotel and transfer to Roma Termini Station. Board the high-speed train to Florence, enjoying a comfortable journey into the heart of Tuscany. Upon arrival at Florence Santa Maria Novella Station, a transfer will be arranged to your hotel. After check-in and some time to refresh, begin your guided discovery of Florence’s historic centre. Explore the magnificent Piazza del Duomo, admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and continue through elegant Renaissance streets towards Piazza della Signoria and Ponte Vecchio.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, a private transfer will be arranged from the Rome hotel to Roma Termini Station. Guests will be assisted with the departure process and proceed to board the high-speed train for Florence.
Travel comfortably from Rome to Florence by high-speed train, connecting two of Italy’s most iconic cities in approximately 1.5 hours. Guests can relax during the journey before arriving in the heart of Tuscany.
Upon arrival at Florence Santa Maria Novella Station, guests will be met and a private transfer will be arranged to the hotel. After check-in, there will be time to refresh and enjoy lunch at leisure before the afternoon experience.
Discover the historic heart of Florence on a guided walking experience through the city’s most celebrated Renaissance landmarks. Explore Piazza del Duomo, Florence Cathedral, Piazza della Signoria and Ponte Vecchio, while learning about the artists, architecture and stories that shaped Florence into one of Europe’s great cultural capitals.
Tuscany Countryside Experience
Siena, San Gimignano & the Flavours of Chianti
After breakfast, depart Florence for a full-day journey through the Tuscan countryside, discovering medieval towns, rolling vineyards and some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes. Begin with Siena, known for its historic centre, elegant piazzas and distinctive medieval character. Continue to San Gimignano, famous for its hilltop setting and remarkable medieval towers. The journey then moves into the Chianti countryside, where guests will enjoy a selected Tuscan culinary experience with local flavours and regional products before returning to Florence.
Depart from the Florence hotel by arranged private/group transfer and journey through the beautiful Tuscan countryside towards Siena, passing rolling hills, vineyards, olive groves and traditional villages along the way.
Discover the medieval heart of Siena, exploring its atmospheric streets and celebrated historic centre. Visit Piazza del Campo, admire the exterior of Siena Cathedral and experience the architecture, local stories and distinctive character of one of Tuscany’s most beautiful cities.
Travel into the picturesque Chianti countryside for a relaxed Tuscan culinary experience. Enjoy a selected regional lunch featuring authentic local flavours in a countryside setting surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The experience may also include tastings of regional products such as olive oil and traditional Tuscan specialities.
Explore the enchanting hilltop town of San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers, stone streets and panoramic Tuscan views. Guests will have time to discover the historic centre, charming piazzas, artisan shops and picturesque lanes while enjoying the unique atmosphere of this beautifully preserved medieval town.
After the day’s discoveries, relax during the arranged transfer through the Tuscan countryside back to Florence, with arrival at the hotel in the early evening. The remainder of the evening is at leisure.
Florence to Venice
From Renaissance Florence to the City of Canals
After breakfast, check out from your Florence hotel and transfer to Florence Santa Maria Novella Station for the high-speed train journey to Venice. Upon arrival at Venezia Santa Lucia Station, a transfer will be arranged to the hotel. After check-in and some time to refresh, begin your first discovery of Venice with a guided walk through the historic centre. Explore St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica exterior, the Doge’s Palace area, Bridge of Sighs and Rialto Bridge, before concluding the afternoon with one of Venice’s most iconic experiences — a traditional gondola ride through the canals. Important Note: The Venice Icons Walking Experience and the onward movement to the gondola boarding point, if the gondola experience is selected, will be entirely on foot through Venice’s historic centre. No private vehicle or additional transfer will be provided for these activities. The only arranged transfer in Venice on this day will be from Venezia Santa Lucia Station to the hotel upon arrival.
After breakfast and hotel check-out, a private transfer will be arranged from the Florence hotel to Firenze Santa Maria Novella Station, where guests will board the high-speed train to Venice.
Travel comfortably from Florence to Venice by high-speed train, enjoying a smooth intercity journey from the heart of Tuscany to one of Italy’s most distinctive destinations.
Upon arrival at Venezia Santa Lucia Station, guests will be assisted with their onward transfer to the hotel. Depending on the hotel location, the transfer may involve a private water taxi or suitable local transfer arrangement.
Discover the historic heart of Venice on a guided walking experience through St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark’s Basilica area, Doge’s Palace exterior, Bridge of Sighs and Rialto Bridge. Explore atmospheric lanes, canals and historic squares while learning about Venice’s extraordinary maritime history and architecture.
Experience Venice from its most iconic perspective aboard a traditional gondola. Glide through atmospheric canals, beneath historic bridges and past elegant Venetian buildings during a memorable introduction to the city from the water.
Venetian Lagoon Discovery
Murano, Burano & a Leisurely Final Day in Venice
After breakfast, set out for a relaxed journey across the Venetian Lagoon, discovering two of its most distinctive islands. Begin with Murano, internationally known for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition. Visit a traditional glass workshop and watch skilled artisans demonstrate the techniques that have made Murano glass famous around the world. Continue by boat to Burano, one of the lagoon’s most colourful islands. Wander through picturesque streets lined with brightly painted houses, small canals and artisan shops, with time to enjoy the island at a relaxed pace. Return to Venice in the afternoon. The remainder of the day is left free for guests to revisit favourite neighbourhoods, shop for souvenirs, enjoy cafés or simply experience the atmosphere of Venice one final time.
Discover the character of the Venetian Lagoon on a half-day journey to Murano and Burano. Travel by boat from Venice to Murano, where guests can experience the island’s celebrated glassmaking tradition and watch a traditional artisan demonstration. Continue across the lagoon to colourful Burano, with time to explore its picturesque canals, brightly painted houses and artisan shops before returning to Venice. Walk from hotel to the designated departure point Lagoon boat transportation Murano Island visit Glassmaking demonstration Boat transfer from Murano to Burano Burano Island visit Return boat journey to Venice Tour coordination / guide where applicable
Farewell Venice
Departure from Italy
After breakfast, enjoy your final morning in Venice before checking out from the hotel. At the scheduled time, an arranged transfer will take guests from the hotel to Venice Marco Polo Airport. Depending on the hotel location, the journey may include a private water taxi, water transfer, or combined local transfer arrangement. Guests will arrive at the airport with sufficient time for check-in, security and departure formalities before their onward flight.
PACKAGE INCLUSIONS & ADD-ONS
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- ◆7 nights accommodation in carefully selected 4★ hotels 3 nights in Rome 2 nights in Florence 2 nights in Venice
- ◆Daily breakfast & 1 selected Tuscan lunch
- ◆Rome Fiumicino Airport to hotel transfer
- ◆Rome hotel to Vatican Museums transfer
- ◆Rome hotel to Roma Termini Station transfer
WHAT'S EXCLUDED
- ✕International and domestic flights
- ✕Visa fees and visa-processing charges
- ✕Travel and medical insurance
- ✕Meals and beverages not specifically included
- ✕Local city or tourist taxes
OPTIONAL ADD-ON EXPERIENCES
Icons of Rome Walking Experience
+€45 per personRenaissance Florence Walking Experience
+€45 per personTraditional Venice Gondola Experience
+€35 per personMurano & Burano Venetian Lagoon Experience
+€65 per personLOCATION & DIRECTIONS
Rome • Florence • Venice
Breakdown: 3 Nights Rome • 2 Nights Florence • 2 Nights Venice
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Transportation
Intercity travel between Rome, Florence and Venice is planned primarily by high-speed rail.
Train times, carriers and seat allocations are subject to operating schedules and availability.
Guests are responsible for being ready at designated meeting and departure points at the communicated times.
Missed transportation resulting from a traveller's late arrival may result in additional costs.
Sightseeing & Attractions
Admission to attractions is included only where specifically stated under Package Inclusions.
Opening hours, entry procedures, security restrictions and availability at major attractions may change. Certain monuments, museums, churches or archaeological sites may occasionally restrict access because of restoration, religious ceremonies, public events, capacity controls or other operational reasons.
Gondola & Water Experiences
Venice experiences are subject to local operating and weather conditions. Routes and operating arrangements may vary according to water levels, traffic management and local regulations.
City & Local Taxes
Local tourist, accommodation or city taxes may apply in Italy. Where these are not expressly shown as included in the final quotation, they are payable directly by the traveller at the accommodation or locally.
Flights
Unless expressly stated in the selected quotation, international and domestic flights are not included in the package price.
Where flights are arranged separately, travellers should ensure their arrival and departure times are compatible with the itinerary and transfer arrangements.
Passport, Visa & Entry Requirements
Each traveller is responsible for holding valid travel documentation appropriate to their nationality and personal circumstances.
Passport, visa, immigration and entry requirements may change. Travellers should verify the applicable requirements before departure and provide sufficient time for any required applications.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended, including appropriate cover for medical expenses, cancellation, interruption, baggage and other relevant travel risks.
Travellers should review their policy conditions and ensure that the coverage is suitable for their personal circumstances and planned activities.
Mobility & Accessibility
This itinerary involves walking, historic city centres, railway stations, bridges, steps, uneven surfaces and areas with restricted vehicle access, particularly in Venice and historic parts of
Rome and Florence.
Guests with reduced mobility, accessibility requirements or medical considerations that may materially affect participation should inform Travel by Twilight before booking so that the suitability of the itinerary and available assistance can be assessed.
Getting Here: The journey is designed as an efficient open-jaw itinerary, beginning in Rome and concluding in Venice. Guests travel between Rome → Florence → Venice by high-speed rail, avoiding unnecessary domestic flights and allowing more time to experience each destination.
Airport & Flight Transfers: The recommended arrival airport is Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO), with an arranged transfer to the Rome hotel. At the end of the journey, an arranged transfer will take guests from their Venice hotel to Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE). International flights are not included unless specifically added to the booking.
Private Helipad & Charters: Private aviation arrangements are available on request. Rome Ciampino, Florence Peretola and Venice Marco Polo support private/general aviation operations. Private jet or helicopter charter arrangements can be coordinated subject to aircraft availability, airport slots, landing permissions and local regulations. In Venice, premium onward transportation can also be coordinated by private water transfer where required.
PRIVACY & BOOKING POLICIES
Bespoke Privacy, Data Protection & Confidentiality Policies
We maintain strict confidentiality protocols, secure client profile management, and non-disclosure standards across all private aviation, bespoke villa stays, and personalized concierge arrangements.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Deposit Schedules, Cancellation Policies & Charter Rules
Review our standardized booking commitments, flexible reschedule options, force majeure protections, and private aviation charter regulations governing this luxury itinerary.