Venice, Florence and Rome

Fly into Venice and upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in this enchanting and one-of-a-kind city.

Accommodation: Any hotels in central Venice, either near the station like the 3* Carlton Capri or 4* Hotel Canal Grande or near the city centre like 3* UnaHotels Ala Venezia or 4* Saturnia & International

This morning, embark on a guided walking tour of Venice. You'll meet the guide and the rest of the group at the iconic St. Mark's Square, making your way to the Rialto Bridge, while discovering the city's most significant landmarks. Your guides will reveal the intriguing secrets behind the renowned Venetian gondolas and their skilled gondoliers.

Following this, enjoy a gondola ride, which typically accommodates up to five guests. Glide gracefully beneath the Bridge of Sighs, into the enchanting San Marco Basin, and enjoy views of the picturesque San Giorgio Island.

In the afternoon, you have the option to either relax or join an optional excursion to the renowned islands of Murano and Burano. These enchanting islands are celebrated globally for their stunning landscapes, traditional crafts, and rich history.

Departing from the iconic St. Mark’s Square by motorboat, your first stop is Murano. Here, you’ll witness the ancient art of glassmaking and lampworking, a tradition that dates back to the 13th century when the Venetian Republic relocated glassmakers to Murano due to fire hazards. The island’s artisans quickly became leading figures in the community.

The next stop is Burano, famous for its exquisite lacework and vibrant, colourful houses. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the island, including its historical visit by Leonardo da Vinci.

Accommodation: Any hotels in central Venice, either near the station like the 3* Carlton Capri or 4* Hotel Canal Grande or near the city centre like 3* UnaHotels Ala Venezia or 4* Saturnia & International

This morning, head to Venice train station to catch the fast train, 2 hours, to Florence, travelling in the serene comfort of 1st class.

Upon arrival in Florence, make your way to your selected hotel.

The rest of the day is yours to explore Florence at your leisure. Florence's vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and stunning architecture promise an unforgettable afternoon. Whether you're wandering through its art-filled museums, savouring authentic Italian gelato, or simply soaking up the ambiance of this enchanting city, Florence is sure to captivate your heart.

Accommodation: Any hotels in central Florence, near the station like the 3* Delle Nazioni, or 4* C-Hotels Club

This morning, enjoy an included small group guided walking tour of the fascinating city of Florence. Known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is home to an array of stunning architecture, world-class art, and rich history. Marvel at the grandeur of the Duomo, explore the many boutiques, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Your guide will reveal the stories and secrets of Florence's illustrious past, making your visit an unforgettable experience.

The rest of the day is free to explore Florence more. Or join our optional small group excursion to the Uffizi Gallery. The Uffizi Gallery in Florence is one of the world's most renowned art museums, offering an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces. Visitors can marvel at Botticelli's "The Birth of Venus" and "Primavera," which showcase his exquisite use of colour and mythological themes. The gallery also houses Leonardo da Vinci's "Annunciation," a stunning example of his early work, and Michelangelo's "Doni Tondo," a unique tondo painting depicting the Holy Family. Caravaggio's dramatic "Medusa" and Titian's evocative "Venus of Urbino" are other highlights, alongside works by Raphael, Giotto, and Rembrandt. Each room in the Uffizi is a treasure trove of artistic brilliance, offering a profound insight into the evolution of Western art.

Accommodation: Any hotels in central Florence, near the station like the 3* Delle Nazioni, or 4* C-Hotels Club

This morning, head to the Florence train station to catch the fast train to Rome, traveling in the serene comfort of 1st class. In less than two hours, you'll find yourself in the heart of Rome. Upon arrival, make your way to your chosen hotel and settle in.

The afternoon is yours to familiarise yourself with the many delights of Rome. Wander through the charming streets of Trastevere, sample authentic Italian cuisine at a local trattoria, or toss a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the Eternal City. Rome's vibrant atmosphere and historical wonders promise an unforgettable start to your visit.

Accommodation: Any hotels in central Rome near the station like the 3* Al Viminale Hill or 4* Best Western Hotel ArtDeco

Enjoy a free morning to explore Rome at your own pace, or choose to join our optional excursion to the Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Sistine Chapel.

This guided tour, starting at the Vatican Museum will take you through the Vatican's extraordinary collection of art and artifacts, showcasing masterpieces from antiquity to the Renaissance. Marvel at Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, and experience the grandeur of St. Peter's Basilica, one of the largest and most significant churches in the world.

In the afternoon make your way to the famous Spanish Steps and join an included guided walking group tour of some of the highlights of Rome. Let Rome enchant you as you visit some of the world’s most famous sites, including the Pantheon, which is so well preserved it has been in constant use throughout its history.

Stroll through the Piazza Navona, home to the Fountain of the Four Rivers with an Egyptian obelisk, and the Spanish Steps, the impressive feature of 135 steps which takes you up to one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the city; Pincio Terrace. Throw a coin into the one of the most famous Baroque features in the world and a favourite with filmmakers, the Trevi Fountain, and wish yourself back in time, allowing the history and atmosphere of one of the world’s most revered cities to wash over you. During the tour, which includes a short break, your guide ensures that you learn the myths and legends of the land, and that you notice every element of your surroundings.

Accommodation: Any hotels in central Rome near the station like the 3* Al Viminale Hill or 4* Best Western Hotel ArtDeco

Free day in Rome to carry on your explorations. Or join an optional excursions to the Colosseum, Roman Forum with a ticket for the City Sightseeing Hop On Hop Off Bus.

Travel through history and the places that made Rome great from onboard a double-decker bus. With stops all around the city, you can comfortably get from one attraction to the next and simply hop off when you want to explore an area further. And with multilingual commentary, you can learn as you go around the city.

Included with this package is a ticket to the most imposing of all Roman monuments: the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the political heart of Ancient Rome and one of the most ancient parts of the city as well as a 25-minute Ancient Rome Multimedia Video.

Accommodation: Any hotels in central Rome near the station like the 3* Al Viminale Hill or 4* Best Western Hotel ArtDeco

Transfer included back to Rome airport in time for your flight home.