The Essence of Italy: From Ancient Wonders to Scenic Beauty

14 Day Tour of Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan

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Trip Map
Itinerary
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14 Days 13 Nights

Best Time: Jan-Dec

Exploring Scenic Countryside

Churches & Sacred Sites

Experience Italy’s rich history and breathtaking landscapes on a carefully planned journey from Rome to Milan, with stops in Florence and Venice. Travel at a relaxed pace, enjoying private tours, the rolling hills of Chianti, and the artistic heritage of each city. Go Real Travel’s mobile app provides detailed guidance throughout your trip, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience across Italy’s historic cities and scenic countryside.

Explore the streets of Rome, from the Colosseum to the Vatican, and uncover the city’s rich history
Savor Florence’s artisanal flavors and explore the Duomo and Renaissance wonders with expert guides
Glide through Venice canals on a private tour, admiring its serene beauty and grand palaces.
Discover Milan’s splendor, from the iconic Duomo to the Last Supper, where art and history meet.
Savor Chianti’s lush landscapes and wines, embracing Tuscany’s tranquility and culinary delights

Explore the streets of Rome, from the Colosseum to the Vatican, and uncover the city’s rich history
Savor Florence’s artisanal flavors and explore the Duomo and Renaissance wonders with expert guides
Glide through Venice canals on a private tour, admiring its serene beauty and grand palaces.
Discover Milan’s splendor, from the iconic Duomo to the Last Supper, where art and history meet.
Savor Chianti’s lush landscapes and wines, embracing Tuscany’s tranquility and culinary delights

Colosseum

Historic Landmarks

Vatican City

Churches & Monasteries

Piazza del Duomo

Churches & Monasteries

Galleria dell'Accademia

Museums & Galleries

Oltrarno & Piazzale Michelangelo

Cultural

Grand Canal

European History

Saint Mark's Basilica

Architecture

Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper

Museums & Galleries

Duomo

Churches & Monasteries

Must see sights

Colosseum

Historic Landmarks

Vatican City

Churches & Monasteries

Piazza del Duomo

Churches & Monasteries

Galleria dell'Accademia

Museums & Galleries

Oltrarno & Piazzale Michelangelo

Cultural

Grand Canal

European History

Saint Mark's Basilica

Architecture

Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper

Museums & Galleries

Duomo

Churches & Monasteries

Starting from

$3847

per person

Not included

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Essence of Italy Trip - Map & Itinerary

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Essence of Italy Trip Timeline

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Arrival

4 nights

Rome

Italy

Train: 2h

3 nights

Florence

Italy

Train: 2.5h

3 nights

Venice

Italy

Train: 2.5h

3 nights

Milan

Italy

Departure

Day-By-Day Itinerary of Essence of Italy Trip

Day 1

Arrive Rome

Day 1

Arrive Rome

To Be Determined

Private Transfer to your Hotel

For your arrival in Rome, we will provide information on the customs and passport procedures. We will schedule a pick up for your flight's arrival time. You will be met at arrivals inside the terminal by a driver holding a sign with your name on it. The transfer is for your party only - you will not be sharing a vehicle. The cost of the ride will be included in your itinerary package and you will be taken directly to your hotel. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please be aware the car service can fit up to 1 checked item of luggage and 1 personal item per person, such as a purse or small backpack. If you think you will have more baggage, please inform your travel consultant as this may result in an additional fee.

Private Transfer from Rome Fiumicino to Hotel

To Be Determined — Private Transfer to your Hotel

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Rome's Historic Center

Rome's tangled historical center is packed full of some of the most fascinating and incredible sights. Explore elegant squares and piazzas, centuries-year-old churches, and baroque fountains and wander at leisure the labyrinth of ancient Roman cobbled lanes. Highlights include the Baroque grandeur of Piazza Navona and the great and endlessly copied Roman Pantheon.

Piazza Navona

Stand in one of the most beautiful squares in Rome, home to the famous Fontana dei Fiumi Fountain by Bernini.

A Roman rendezvous, Piazza Navona is, for many people, the most beautiful square in the world. Like many of Rome's landmarks, Piazza Navona is located over the foundations of an ancient monument, a 30,000 seat stadium of Domitian. The former tiers of seats have since made way for ornate fountains, exuberant baroque palazzi, and bustling pavement cafes. The square has long been the hub for local life, hosting Rome's main market for over 300 years. Today it attracts a colorful circus of tourists, performers, hawkers, street artists, and pigeons. The first visit to Piazza Navona might well result in a stiff neck from gazing up at all the sumptuous Baroque beauty.

Pantheon

Visit this iconic former pagan temple converted into a Christian church.

This sanctuary of impressive dimensions is one of the best-preserved buildings of ancient Rome. Erected on the foundations of an earlier temple dating back to 27 BC, its construction was ordered by the Emporer Hadrian in the second century AD. The Pantheon was originally a Pagan temple dedidated to all of the gods. The building's consecration as a church in 609 AD saved it from the abandonment, destruction, and the worst of the spoliation that befell the majority of ancient Rome's buildings during the early medieval period. Its greying exterior may look its age, but inside, a spectacular experience awaits. With light streaming through its oculus, the marble-clad interior seems vast. The Pantheon is home to some notable tombs, including those of painters Annibale Carracci and Raphael and King Vittorio Emanuele II.

Column of Marcus Aurelius

Column formerly dedicated to Emperor Marcus Aurelius; a statue of St. Paul now stands in place of his.

If you turn left at the far end of the Temple of Adrian, you'll arrive at the Column of Marcus Aurelius (Colonna di Marco Aurelio). The column located on Piazza Colonna commemorates the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius and his victories over the Germanic tribes in Danubian and Marcomannic wars. It was modeled on Trajan's Column (which is located in Trajan's Forum). The column consists of 27 or 28 blocks of Carrara marble, each of 3.7 meters (12 ft) diameter, and was nicknamed the Centenaria, "hundred-footer" because it was 100 Roman feet or 29.60 meters high. On the top of the column was a statue of Marcus Aurelius; today, the apostle Paul stands there.

Via del Corso

One of the main streets in Rome.

The main street running alongside the Piazza Colonna is one of the main streets in Rome, called the Via del Corso. It is remarkable for being absolutely straight in an area characterized by narrow meandering alleys and small piazzas. Its runs 1.5km from Piazza del Popolo all the way to Piazza Venezia and is one of the busiest shopping streets in Rome. You’ll find lots of large international stores all over the street including major retailers such as Nike and Zara, as well as smaller Italian retailers where bargains on boutique pieces of Italian clothing and souvenirs can be found.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Spanish Steps

The streets spreading out from grand Piazza del Popolo (People's Square) form a trident that hosts some of the most popular shopping and tourist sights in Rome. These include the Spanish Steps, the adjacent Keats-Shelley House where Keats died of tuberculosis in 1821, Trevi Fountain where Anita Ekberg jumped into the water in the famous scene from Frederico Fellini's La Dolce Vita, and the Mausoleum of Emperor Augustus.

Spanish Steps

Take a scenic walk up the 18th-century stairway where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck set out on their Roman Holiday.

The majestically balustraded Spanish Steps were built in 1723-6 to connect the piazza with the church of the Trinita dei Monti and the Pincio. It quickly became a favorite spot of poets, artists, and writers who gathered on its 137 steps, and it's now a favorite stop for tourists from all over the world. Yet this highly attractive stairway still somehow manages to retain a sense of romance even at the height of the tourist season, and if you happen to get there at the beginning of May you’ll find it laden with tubs of magnificent azaleas. A masterpiece of 18th-century town planning, the steps actually contain a religious message – the three flights and three landings are an allusion to the Holy Trinity.

Keats-Shelly House

Visit the last residence of poet John Keats, now a memorial museum.

The Keats-Shelley House at the foot of the Spanish Steps to the right contains the apartment where the poet John Keats spent the last three months of his life. The House is essentially an archive of English-language literary and historical works and a museum of manuscripts and literary mementoes relating to the Keats circle of the early 19th century, i.e. Keats himself, Percy and Mary Shelley and Byron (who at one time lived across the square).

The Trevi Fountain

Admire one of the most iconic sights in Rome, made famous by Anita Ekberg in La Dolce Vita.

The Trevi Fountain is one of the most iconic sights in Rome thanks to the antics of the shapely Anita Ekberg casting herself into its waters in Frederico Fellini’s cinematic masterpiece, La Dolce Vita. The fountain curiously seems to appear out of virtually nowhere within a warren of backstreets but is nevertheless discovered reasonably early each day by endless crowds of tourists looking to ensure their future return to Rome by tossing a coin back over their should into its crystal clear water (the coins are raked up each morning and donated to the Church organization Caritas). 

Mausoleum of Augustus

Visit the tomb of the first Roman Emperor and his family, which is finally being restored after more than a millenium of neglect.

The huge circular Mausoleum of Augustus, holding the tomb of the Emperor and the principal members of his family was one of the most sacred monuments of the ancient city, but has been somewhat neglected in recent decades, though it has undergone recent restoration. Erected in 28 BC and originally surrounded by a huge public park, it has a diameter of 87m (330 Roman feet), the largest circular mausoleum in the world. 

Piazza del Popolo

Take some time to admire this elegant square that once served as an impressive main entry point into the city of Rome.

The Piazza del Popolo was created in 1538 for Paul III in strict alignment with the three long straight streets which penetrate the city here as a trident. The piazza once acted as one the primary entrances into Rome, and many travelers recorded their first arrival in Rome through the monumental Porta del Popolo, which may have been designed by Michelangelo. An obelisk, 24m high, rises in the center and on the side of the piazza opposite the porta are the twin decorative 17th-century Baroque churches, Santa Maria dei Miracoli and Santa Maria in Montesanto.

Day 1

Arrive Rome

To Be Determined:

Private Transfer to your Hotel

Mid-Day/Afternoon:

Rome's Historic Center

Late Afternoon/Early Evening:

Spanish Steps

Private Transfer to your Hotel

Overview

Private Transfer to your Hotel

Overview

Private Transfer to your Hotel

Overview

Private Transfer to your Hotel

Overview

Private Transfer to your Hotel

Overview

Private Transfer to your Hotel

To Be Determined — Private Transfer to your Hotel

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Rome's Historic Center

Piazza Navona

Stand in one of the most beautiful squares in Rome, home to the famous Fontana dei Fiumi Fountain by Bernini.

Pantheon

Visit this iconic former pagan temple converted into a Christian church.

Column of Marcus Aurelius

Column formerly dedicated to Emperor Marcus Aurelius; a statue of St. Paul now stands in place of his.

Via del Corso

One of the main streets in Rome.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps

Take a scenic walk up the 18th-century stairway where Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck set out on their Roman Holiday.

Keats-Shelly House

Visit the last residence of poet John Keats, now a memorial museum.

The Trevi Fountain

Admire one of the most iconic sights in Rome, made famous by Anita Ekberg in La Dolce Vita.

Mausoleum of Augustus

Visit the tomb of the first Roman Emperor and his family, which is finally being restored after more than a millenium of neglect.

Piazza del Popolo

Take some time to admire this elegant square that once served as an impressive main entry point into the city of Rome.

Day 2

Rome

Day 2

Rome

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Ancient Rome Guided Walk

On this 3-hour private guided tour, you will explore the imposing remains of ancient Rome. Your guide will explain the extraordinary history of the birth of Rome, life in the city and everything about the fall of the Empire. Visit the Colosseum, the monumental ruins of the Roman Forum, and end the tour on the Capitoline Hill, the smallest and most important of the seven hills of Ancient Rome.

Heart of the Empire - Private Tour of Ancient Rome & the Colosseum

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Colosseum

Ancient Roman Ampitheater

Heart of the Empire - Private Tour of Ancient Rome & the Colosseum

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Colosseum

Ancient Roman Ampitheater

Heart of the Empire - Private Tour of Ancient Rome & the Colosseum

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Colosseum

Ancient Roman Ampitheater

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM — Ancient Rome Guided Walk

Colosseum

Ancient Roman Ampitheater

Monumental Roman amphitheater once used for gladiatorial games

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon — Piazza Venezia

The Piazza Venezia is not only the central hub of Rome, but is also located at the foot of the Capitoline Hill, which is the ancient heart of Rome. Thus it was chosen as a fitting space for a memorial to the first king of modern Italy, Victor Emmanuel II, who led the unification of the Italian states in the 1860s. The gigantic monument now overlooks the Piazza Venezia in overwhelming marble glory, standing as an unmissable symbol of Italian unity. The open space and dramatic setting were used to great effect by Mussolini, who staged rallies here. However, the monument is just one of the several sights that can be found around Piazza Venezia, an area often overlooked by tourists who pass from the historic center directly to the Colosseum further down the street. For instance, just below it you'll find Trajan's Forum, containing some of Rome's most notable ruins, and just above it on the Capitoline Hill, an elegant square designed by Michelangelo.

Vittorio Emanuele II Monument

Visit this grand monument and ascend to the roof through an elevator at the back for the wonderful views of the Roman Forum and Colosseum.

Standing grand and mighty on Capitoline Hill overlooking Piazza Venezia, the monumental marble temple honouring Italy's first king Vittorio Emanuele II is a sight often overlooked by tourists. The impressive wedding cake-like building is home to one of the best views in Rome. Ascend to its rooftop and you can enjoy amazing views over the Roman Forum and Colosseum.  The monument is also the sight of the Altar of the Fatherland (Altare della Patria), which includes an altar to the goddess Rome, and a shrine to the Italian Unknown Soldier, thus making the monument a sort of secular temple dedicated to the country. However, it's unlikely the relatively modest and unassuming Vittorio would have appreciated this massive monument built to his legacy. Inaugurated in 1911 to symbolize the achievement of Italian unity, it irrevocably changed the aspect of the city, throwing out of scale the Capitoline hill itself and causing indiscriminate damage. Familiarly known as ‘Mussolini’s typewriter’ (it was finished during his regime in 1937), it is thought by some locals to be a colossal monstrosity, although for others its symbolic importance makes it a place of reverence, regardless of any architectural criticism.

Capitoline Square & Capitoline Museums

See the square Michelangelo designed to mark the spot of Rome's legendary origins.

This square at the top of the Capitoline Hill, Piazza del Campidoglio, is a lovely piece of town planning designed by Michelangelo. It is surrounded on three sides by stately palaces and an open-end featuring a balustrade. This is the historical center of ancient Rome, and to reflect this fact, Pope Paul III ordered that the famous gilded bronze equestrian statue of Marcus Aurelius be moved here from the Lateran hill.  Off of one corner of the square you will find a reproduction of the famous Lupa Capitolina, that is, the statue of the she-wolf that suckled the legendary founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus. Wander just a bit further and you will be rewarded with an amazing view over the Forum. You'll also find the Capitoline Museums in one of the 15th century palaces fronting the square. These are some of the oldest collections in Rome, containing Classical Roman, Greek, and Egyptian sculptures, as well as Renaissance art.

Markets of Trajan

Take a look around the world's first shopping mall.

Trajan's Forum was the last great forum built in Rome and rivaled the original Forum in scale and grandiosity. However, the only significant structure that remains now is the semicircular ruins of the Trajan Markets, which are often described as the world's first shopping mall. Arcaded passageways led to offices, shops, and apartments, situated in a multi-story structure. It is still possible to visit some of these levels. Within Trajan's Market you will find the Museum of Imperial Fora, one of the best interactive museums covering Ancient Rome. The labeling in English is unsurpassed and the exhibition rooms both in the museum and the rooms of the markets provide a superb introduction to Roman life and the architecture and building methods that were lost for centuries after the fall of the Roman Empire. Two or three hours spent here is time well invested.

Trajan's Column

Relive a saga of war and conquest on this carved frieze as it winds its way up a 140-foot high ancient column.

Built in 113 AD out of 18 massive blocks of marble, the column is decorated with exquisitely executed reliefs which spiral up around it. There are over 2,500 carved figures, and the column tells a detailed and highly visual tale of the Emperor Trajan’s Dacian wars. At the top of the column once stood a statue of the victorious Emperor (replaced by St Peter in 1588), and a spiral stone staircase inside led to a platform from which extensive views could be enjoyed over the rooftops of the city. Today the column is visible from the Piazza Venezia without a ticket, but those with a particular interest in Roman history might consider hiring a private guide who can explain the story depicted by the column in more detail.

Early Evening to Late Evening — Trastevere

Stroll around Trastevere, a formerly working-class district which has now been transformed into one of its hippest neighborhoods. You'll discover a heady nightlife mostly free of the tourist traps which mar other parts of the center, and you'll discover hidden corners beloved by locals and visitors alike. We highly recommend dining out in one of the district's top-rated restaurants or cafes, but beware, this is Rome's most popular spot for dinner, so booking ahead or dining early is highly advised. If you don't make a reservation, here's one tip for finding a restaurant: if someone is standing outside trying to convince you to come in, it's not popular with the locals.

Basilica di Santa Maria

Step inside this mosaic-covered gem of Rome, and then linger for a while to people watch on the square its located on.

Said to be the oldest church dedicated to the Virgin Mary in Rome, it dates back to the 3rd Century. Despite being located on the central square of one of Rome's most popular neighborhoods for dining and nightlife, the Basilica di Santa Maria is often missed by visitors. Most just stop outside to admire its 12th-century facade and its glittering mosaic depicting Mary feeding Jesus. Its interior though is the true draw, as it is home to impressive golden mosaics from the 13th century by Pietro Cavallini, and its nave is held up by 21 ancient Roman columns pillaged from the Baths of Caracalla.  After visiting the church, be sure to hang out for a little while on the square to appreciate the lively vibe of the Trastevere neighborhood.

Day 2

Rome

Day 3

Rome

Day 3

Rome

Early Morning to Late Afternoon

Vatican City

Rome is unique in the world in that it contains an independent country within its city limits - the Vatican City, from where the Pope administers the Catholic Church. The symbolic center of Catholicism is St Peter's Basilica, the second-largest Catholic church in the world and among the most beautiful. The Vatican Museum contains one of the greatest collections of art in existence, including Michelangelo's jaw-dropping Sistine Chapel. The popes had a bigger influence on Rome than just the collection of art. The Pope's title is actually Bishop of Rome, and popes administed the city for centuries, shaping its architecture & public spaces. Rome was re-built to be an example of urban beauty, and the Vatican was meant to be the showcase within the showcase. Their success is evident from the throngs of visitors who flock here even today.

Vatican Museums

Book early if you want to see the Vatican Museum's monumental works of art from the greatest Italian artists of the Renaissance.

St Peter’s Basilica

Explore the gigantic and incredibly beautiful church known as "the greatest of all churches of Christendom".

Vatican Gardens

Escape the crowds in this oasis of green hidden behind the walls of the Vatican.

Explore the Vatican City's Many Wonders

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

St Peter's Square

Stand in the middle of this famous square in which the faithful gather to hear the Pope give audiences and celebrate mass.

Sistine Chapel

Gaze up at the world's most famous ceiling, the masterpiece of Michelangelo.

Vatican Museums

Book early if you want to see the Vatican Museum's monumental works of art from the greatest Italian artists of the Renaissance.

St Peter’s Basilica

Explore the gigantic and incredibly beautiful church known as "the greatest of all churches of Christendom".

Vatican Gardens

Escape the crowds in this oasis of green hidden behind the walls of the Vatican.

Explore the Vatican City's Many Wonders

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

St Peter's Square

Stand in the middle of this famous square in which the faithful gather to hear the Pope give audiences and celebrate mass.

Sistine Chapel

Gaze up at the world's most famous ceiling, the masterpiece of Michelangelo.

Early Morning to Late Afternoon — Vatican City

St Peter's Square

Stand in the middle of this famous square in which the faithful gather to hear the Pope give audiences and celebrate mass.

As one of the most superb conceptions of its kind in civic architecture, St Peter’s Square is the masterpiece of Gian Lorenzo Bernini and makes a wonderful approach to one of the world’s most magnificent churches, St Peter's Basilica. An oval rather than an actual square, the piazza, laid out in 1656-67, is partially enclosed by two semi-circular colonnades on which stand 96 statues of saints and martyrs. At the center of the oval stands an 84-foot (26m) tall Egyptian obelisk of red granite.

Sistine Chapel

Gaze up at the world's most famous ceiling, the masterpiece of Michelangelo.

This famous chapel inside the Vatican Museums is best known for Michelangelo's 16th-century painted ceiling of "The Creation of Adam" and "The Last Judgement" fresco that covers the whole altar wall of the chapel. The jaw-dropping sight is not to be missed, considered one of the top highlights of visiting the Vatican Museums and one of the top artistic wonders of the world. 

Vatican Museums

Book early if you want to see the Vatican Museum's monumental works of art from the greatest Italian artists of the Renaissance.

The Vatican Museum is actually 26 different museums, which include not only exhibitions but chapels, apartments, and other rooms of the Vatican palace, covering a huge range of fine and applied arts patronized by the popes. There's also an outstanding collection of ancient antiquities (including even the Emperor Nero's red stone bathtub), a gallery of hand-painted maps, and whole rooms turned into works of art. In addition to ancient and medieval works of art, you'll see masterpieces by the "who's who" of the Italian Renaissance, including Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, Titian, and Caravaggio. Other highlights include panels by the brilliant monk-artist Fra Angelico, works from the Venetian school, including Vavarini, and much, much more.  Booking in advance is highly recommended as otherwise you can wait for hours or not even be able to get in at all.

St Peter’s Basilica

Explore the gigantic and incredibly beautiful church known as "the greatest of all churches of Christendom".

The basilica is one of the chief pilgrimage sites in the Christian world, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rome. The basilica is the symbolic center of the church not only because the Pope frequently celebrates Mass there, but because it is believed that the apostle St. Peter is buried beneath it. Catholics consider Peter as the first Bishop of Rome and "the rock" upon which the Catholic Church was built, in accordance with Christ's instructions. Inside you can admire sculptures by Bernini as well as Michelangelo's famous sculpture of the Virgin Mary holding the crucified Jesus, known as The Pietà. The church's elaborate and impressive golden interior is a sight to behold. Other sights include St Peter's tomb, the Papal crypts in the necropolis under the basilica, as well as the dome, which rewards visitors with views over Rome.  Entry is free, but queues to visit the Basilica can be lengthy, so it is highly advised to either get there early or to purchase a skip the line entrance. The dome is also paid entry. 

Vatican Gardens

Escape the crowds in this oasis of green hidden behind the walls of the Vatican.

Accessible only via a guided tour, the gardens are definitely worth a visit. Just as the Popes have for hundreds of years, you can stroll the gardens and relax amidst the greenery, while taking in the perfect view of St. Peter's. 

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Castel Sant'Angelo

Designed and built by Emperor Hadrian as his own mausoleum, the great circular hulk of Castel Sant'Angelo provides one of the best routes to the Vatican and St Peter's via the Ponte Sant'Angelo bridge. Appropriated by the popes, the mausoleum was turned into a fortress and attached to the Vatican with a passageway for the popes to use as a refuge in times of siege or invasion - this is where Pope Clement VII sheltered during the Sack of Rome in 1527.

Mausoleum of Hadrian

Visit this iconic 2nd Century Castle built as the Mausoleum For Emperor Hadrian.

Known as Hadrian's Tomb, the Castel Sant'Angelo is a fortress on the banks of the River Tiber. Originally built as a tomb for the Emperor, it has evolved over the centuries and today it is one of Rome's most underrated museums. Inside you can see the historic Papal apartments, decorated with frescoes from the Renaissance period. Outside you can admire the castle's bastion and rooftop with beautiful views over the river and the Vatican. 

Ponte Sant'Angelo

Walk across this pedestrian bridge that was built in 134 A.D. by Emperor Hadrian.

Hadrian had the bridge built as an approach to his mausoleum, but it didn't gain its magnificent angel statues by Bernini until late in the 17th century. Spanning the River Tiber, it is completely pedestrianised, which allows for great photo opportunities of the castle and St Peter's Basilica in the near distance. 

Day 3

Rome

Day 4

Rome

Day 4

Rome

Morning/Mid-Day

Esquilino District

Upon first glance, this urban neighborhood of Rome may seem busy and overwhelming, but hidden among its traffic-noisy streets are some of Rome's most beautiful churches, artistic treasures, and cultural museums, including the Baths of Diocletian.

Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli

See a Michelangelo-designed church built within the former Baths of Diocletian.

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Visit one of Rome's greatest but most unheralded museums of antiquity.

Visit Rome's Esquilino District

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Baths of Diocletian

Walk the ruins of what was once the largest themal baths in the ancient Roman world.

Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli

See a Michelangelo-designed church built within the former Baths of Diocletian.

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Visit one of Rome's greatest but most unheralded museums of antiquity.

Visit Rome's Esquilino District

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Baths of Diocletian

Walk the ruins of what was once the largest themal baths in the ancient Roman world.

Morning/Mid-Day — Esquilino District

Baths of Diocletian

Walk the ruins of what was once the largest themal baths in the ancient Roman world.

Covering an area of more than 13 hectares (some 32 acres), the bath complex was commissioned by Emperor Diocletian in 298 AD, with a capacity to host over 3,000 people (twice as many as the Baths of Caracalla). The baths were made of bricks, coated in marble and decorated with mosaics and sculptures. The complex included a gymnasium, a library, a large outdoor swimming pool and cold, hot, and tepid public baths. They remained open until 537 when the Goths cut off the aqueducts in an attempt to conquer Rome. After they fell into disrepair and were left abandoned. Even though only a small part of the public bath complex can be seen and visited, it is extremely impressive, with the possibility to see at some points the high ceilings the baths possessed. The interior includes part of the National Museum of Rome and a permanent exhibition on pre-historic populations of the area. In the outdoor part of the baths, it is possible to stroll through a sixteenth-century garden with nearly 400 works of art, including statues, sarcophagi and reliefs. 

Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli

See a Michelangelo-designed church built within the former Baths of Diocletian.

In 1561, almost 1000 years after the baths of Diocletian fell into disuse, Pope Pius IV decided to build a basilica consecrated to Our Lady of the Angels within the baths. He commisioned the 86-year-old Michelangelo to plan the church, making use of some of the existing structures of the baths. Today a visit to the basilica gives you an idea of the enormous size of the baths. The church was constructed at the site of the former frigidarium (a large cold pool which would be used to close the pores after using the hot baths) and incorporates several elements of the former thermae. The vestibule occupies the former tepidarium (a Roman-style relaxation room) and the imposing entrance is an exedra of the caldarium (a room with a hot plunge bath). Other highlights include the meridian solar line running across the floor, which still accurately calculates the length of the year and the summer and winter solstices. There is also an impressive organ with 5,400 tubes. It is capable of leaving those visitors lucky enough to hear it spellbound.

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Visit one of Rome's greatest but most unheralded museums of antiquity.

This light-filled museum holds one of the best classical art collections in the world. The ground and first-floor feature famous Greek and Roman sculptures, mosaics and statues, as well as impressive sarcophagi and high reliefs. The second floor showcases the best preserved Roman frescoes in the world, which are considered the highlight of the museum. Originally located in Villa of Livia (the wife of Augustus) and Villa Farnesina, these colourful frescoes, sometimes covering an entire room, offer a unique view into life in ancient Rome and the critical importance of gardens, nature, and the villa atmosphere to upper echelon Romans. A must visit room is the painted garden room of Villa Livia. There is also a cinema room with a video showing a 3D reconstruction of the Villa Farnesina as it would have been, showing the layout of the rooms in the villa and the frescoes you had seen just moments before. 

Afternoon to Evening — Ostia Antica

Just 20 miles from Rome lies one of the largest and most interesting excavation sites and preserved ruins of the Roman Empire outside of Pompeii; the former port city of Ostia Antica. As one of Rome’s most overlooked and undervalued site by tourists visiting the city, it's a must-do day trip for anyone interested in the Roman history and life as it was in one of Rome's original port cities. It is especially nice to be able to enjoy the ruins in quiet and contemplation without the crowds which fill the ruins of Pompeii. Getting there is easy. A suburban commuter train service (or overground metro) runs several times an hour from central Rome to the coast and stops at Ostia Antica station. Since the train is part of Rome's Metro Network, you won't even need to purchase additional tickets if you have a Roma Pass.

Bath of Neptune

Admire the mosaic floors of this once luxurious bath built for the people of Ostia.

Built by Emperor Hadrian in 139 AD, these luxurious bathhouses were a gift to the people of Ostia. Bathhouses were a very important aspect of Roman culture, a place where the common man could mingle with senators and centurions on a daily basis. Like most grand bathhouses, the floors of the Ostia bathhouse were adorned with beautiful mosaics. Many of the black and white mosaics have been relatively well preserved with the largest mosaic of Neptune riding four horses through the sea being the most impressive.

Square of Guilds

Take a peaceful stroll through a place which was once filled with the hubbub of business dealings.

This open-air market was essential for Rome, with merchants from foreign lands gathering here to sell anything from grain and shipping services to elephants and giraffes. The most notable detail of the Square of Guilds are the intricate black and white mosaics that lie in front and inside of each shop. These mosaics indicated the professional associations of each vendor as well as inspired a sense of nostalgia for the distant homes of each of the merchants. It is important to note that these shops did not have any merchandise in them (they were too small). Instead, they functioned more as offices where people could meet and create deals.

Theater

Stare down at the theater stage as the audience did two milennia ago.

Originally built during the reign of Emperor Augustus, it was later enlarged to seat up to 2,700 spectators. Most of the theater's structure remains visible, and you can climb to the top level (where women would have typically sat thanks to the gender division rules of Ancient Rome) to get a good overview. Musicians and typically performed in the ground floor semi-circle, while actors would have used the wooden stage. In ancient times, there would have been a large brick wall behind the stage where scenery would be hung.

Ostia Antica Museum

Visit a museum filled with sculptures and artwork rescued from the ruins.

This splendid Renaissance building was originally built to store salt supplies from the nearby salt pans. Today, it is home to a rich collection of sculptures, busts, paintings and mosaics which have been discovered during the numerous excavations at Ostia. Among the museum's highlights are a large marble statue of Minerva that was probably from Porta Romana; a relief from the Temple of Hercules dating from between 80 and 65 BC; a statue of Perseus holding the head of Medusa found in a villa outside Porta Laurentina; and a portrait of Trajan, a rare masterpiece that was found in the theater.

Day 4

Rome

Day 5

Rome to Florence

Day 5

Rome to Florence

Morning

Villa Borghese Gardens

The Villa Borghese Park acts as the main respite and sanctuary for Romans and tourists alike away from the din of central Rome. Overlooking Piazza del Popolo and only a stone's throw from the Spanish Steps, the area was a district of market gardens, olive groves, and patrician villas until taken over as summer estates by the city's wealthy during the Renaissance. The most notable is Villa Borghese, which now houses one of the city's best non-Vatican art collections. The adjacent Pincio Gardens offer a grand vista over Rome.

Galleria Borghese

Visit Rome's most famous art gallery outside of the Vatican Museums.

National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art

National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art

See the most important collection in existence of Italian modern art.

Exploring the Villa Borghese Gardens

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Medici Villa

Take a peak at a 16th-century cardinal's villa that was once considered one of the grandest residences in the city.

Galleria Borghese

Visit Rome's most famous art gallery outside of the Vatican Museums.

National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art

See the most important collection in existence of Italian modern art.

Exploring the Villa Borghese Gardens

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Medici Villa

Take a peak at a 16th-century cardinal's villa that was once considered one of the grandest residences in the city.

Morning — Villa Borghese Gardens

Medici Villa

Take a peak at a 16th-century cardinal's villa that was once considered one of the grandest residences in the city.

Built-in 1564-74 and bought by Cardinal Ferdinando de'Medici in 1576, who further enlarged it, the Medici Villa was considered one of the grandest residences in the city. Galileo was held under house arrest here by the Inquisition in 1630-3. In 1801, the villa was bought by Napoleon and the French Academy was transferred here where it has remained to this day, meaning it is closed to the general public. French students who win the Prix de Rome are sent to study here for periods of six months to two years at the expense of the French government. Well-known scholars include Berlioz, Debussy, and Ingres. It remains one of the most important cultural institutions in Europe and the most beautiful villas to have preserved its garden in the center of Rome.

Galleria Borghese

Visit Rome's most famous art gallery outside of the Vatican Museums.

The gallery started out as the private family collection of the powerful Borghese family, who poured much of their wealth into the patronage of the best Renaissance-era artists. It contains masterpieces not only by Bernini and Caravaggio, but also Raphael, Rubens, and Titian. Don't miss in particular Caravaggio's David with the Head of Goliath - the head is said to be a self-portrait. It's obligatory to book your visit in advance, you'll need a printable confirmation and a booking number.

National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art

See the most important collection in existence of Italian modern art.

The gallery was founded in 1883, although the current museum building was purpose-built for it in 1911. It displays paintings and sculptures of the nineteenth and twentieth centuries and is the largest such collection in Italy. In addition to Italian artists such as Giorgio de Chirico and Giorgio Morandi, you'll find works from non-Italian artists including Degas, Monet, and Jackson Pollock.

12:10 PM — Private Transfer to Rome Train Station

A private transfer service will pick you up from the N/A and deliver you to Rome Termini Train Station. Your itinerary will provide detailed information on navigating the train station and finding your train, making the whole process simple and stress-free.

13:10 - 14:46 — Train to Florence

Your approximately hour-and-a-half-hour rail journey to Florence will leave Rome behind and shortly enter the picturesque region of Umbria, where you can watch for the medieval hilltop town of Orvieto. You'll then travel through the famously beautiful countryside of of Tuscany, where you'll enjoy a landscape of green hills covered by vineyards, fields, and forests, and see winding roads lined by the iconic cypress trees. Be sure to keep an eye out for more medieval hilltop towns, such as Montepulciano and Arrezo. The journey is especially convenient since you can take a direct, high-speed train - the Frecciarossa, which reaches speeds of up to 250 miles per hour (400 km/h) and offers maximum comfort.

2:46 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Most trains arrive in Firenza S.M.N. (i.e. Florence Santa Maria Novella Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option, and trams and buses pick up next to the station. Uber is not available in Florence, but taxis are available at all rail stations and are usually honest (but certainly not always). Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags.

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Santa Croce

Piazza Santa Croce, is one of Florence's largest squares and traditionally one of its main arenas for ceremonies and festivities. It is also home to the church of Santa Croce, famous for its extraordinary fresco cycles and its monuments to more than 270 prominent Italians, including Dante, Michelangelo, Machiavelli, and Galileo. Casa Buonarotti, a homage to Michelangelo, is nearby. The area around Santa Croce is also one of the best al fresco dining localities in the city.

Basilica of Santa Croce

Visit a church famous for its frescoes and as a national pantheon holding the remains of many of Italy's greatest historical figures .

The basilica of Santa Croce is the Franciscans' principal church in Florence. Some of the city's wealthiest plutocrats funded the church's construction and sponsored the extraordinary frescos that decorate the chapels. The interior, with its open timber roof, is one of the most richly decorated in Florence. Santa Croce also serves as a national pantheon, with tombs and/or monuments to more than 270 famous Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo, Machiavelli and Dante. The latter has only a monument, as he was exiled from Florence and died in Ravenna. Michelangelo's tomb is said to have been positioned close to the entrance at his own request, so that when on the Day of Judgement the graves fly open, the first thing to catch his eye will be the cathedral dome.

Casa Buonarroti

Visit a 17th-century palace museum housing Michelangelo's early marble reliefs & drawings.

Michelangelo probably resided in this palace between 1516 and 1525, and today it contains a smart but low-key museum devoted to him. Most contents, however, were created in homage and only a handful are by the great man. The highlights are Madonna della Scale, Michelangelo's earliest-known work created when he was 16, and the torso of a River God. There are also a few Michelangelo drawings.

Synagogue

Visit this 1882 Moorish-style synagogue to learn about the rich history of Florence's Jewish population.

The enormous domed synagogue was built in the 19th century after the Jewish ghetto established by Cosimo I was demolished. The style of the synagogue is an extravagant hybrid of Moorish and Byzantine styles. It contains a museum illustrating the history of the Florentine Jewish community on the first floor, divided into two sections: one illustrates the history of the Jews in Florence, the other displays religious and ceremonial objects. The doors of the Holy Ark, before which a light burns in perpetuity, still bear scars inflicted by the bayonets of fascist desecrators. During the Nazi occupation, the synagogue was used as a garage and was also mined by the Germans as they retreated. The names of 248 Florentine Jews put to death by the Nazis are recorded in a large inscription in the garden of the temple, where a smaller plaque lists Jews who fell fighting for Italy during the First World War.

English cemetery

Find a beautiful, neglected, and mostly undiscovered cemetery secluded within a traffic circle.

Located atop a mound within a traffic island and somewhat neglected, the English cemetery still remains a sense of peace and beauty amidst the cypress trees and wonderful carvings of the tombs. Despite its name, the cemetery was set aside for Protestants, not just Englishmen. However, the most famous permanent resident of the cemetery is indeed English - the poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning. The cemetery inspired the painting the Isle of the Dead, the best-known painting of the artist Arnold Böcklin.

Early Evening/Evening — Concert

Florence is well-known as the home of the Renaissance but many are unaware that it also lies at the heart of the Western musical tradition, as it was here that the first operas were performed in the mid-16th century. Today, the musical tradition remains strong, and you can see a performance in one of several theaters. Notable among them are the Teatro Niccolini, the oldest in Florence and one of the oldest in Europe, and the stunning Teatro della Pergola, one of the first theaters to use box seating. Famous Florentine festivals include Estate Fiesolana from mid-June to late August and the Maggio Musicale Fiorentino (i.e. the Florence Musical May).

Day 5

Rome to Florence

Day 6

Florence

Day 6

Florence

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Private Walking Tour

Enjoy a 3-hour private walking tour of Florence, the perfect introduction to the masterpieces of this city. Stroll around the historic center and take in sights such as the Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza Della Signora and end your tour at the famous Galleria dell'Accademia, where you can choose to enter to see Michelangelo's marble masterpiece, the statue of David. Please note that entry tickets to the gallery is not included and you must purchase them in advance.

Florence in Half a Day: Guided Highlights Walk

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Galleria dell'Accademia

Art museum and home to Michelangelo's famous David

Florence in Half a Day: Guided Highlights Walk

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Galleria dell'Accademia

Art museum and home to Michelangelo's famous David

Florence in Half a Day: Guided Highlights Walk

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Galleria dell'Accademia

Art museum and home to Michelangelo's famous David

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM — Private Walking Tour

Galleria dell'Accademia

Art museum and home to Michelangelo's famous David

The Gallery's prized exhibits are naturally its works by Michelangelo, including in addition to David his unfinished Slaves (or Prisoners). 

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon — Piazza del Duomo

Discover the medieval marvel of the Duomo, Santa Maria del Fiore, with its iconic dome offering panoramic views of Florence. Founded in 1296, it aimed to be the world's largest church, showcasing unmatched Renaissance grandeur in Piazza del Duomo. While entry to the Duomo is free, dome access requires a reservation. Consider a Firenze Card for easy access to other sites.

Campanile (i.e. the Bell Tower)

Climb 414 steps to the top of Italy's most famous bell tower.

The campanile, or bell tower, is at 278ft/84.7m tall and approximately 49ft/15m in breadth the most eloquent example of 14th century Gothic architecture in Florence. Clad in white, red and green marble like the cathedral directly adjacent to it, the majestic square bell tower is considered to be the most beautiful campanile in Italy. There are 414 steps to climb and no elevator available.

Opera Duomo Museum

See how the master architect Brunelleschi planned and built the cathedral, as well as many sculptural masterpieces.

The museum contains the largest concentration of Florentine sculpture in the world, including medieval and Renaissance works in marble, bronze, and silver by the leading artists of the era. Most of the masterpieces on display were designed to adorn the religious monuments that still stand on the Piazza del Duomo. You'll find a number of sculptures by Donatello, a forerunner of Michelangelo, as well as a mock-up of Brunelleschi's building site, complete with broken bricks, wooden scaffolding and some of the tools that were used to build the dome. Plus there are displays of various proposals for completing parts of the dome, as well as the original wooden model of the cathedral lantern presumably made by Brunelleschi himself.

Loggia del Bigallo & Museo della Misericordia

Discover these hidden-in-plain-sight gems and learn about a noble organization which has done much to alleviate the suffering of Florence's population over the centuries.

The Loggia del Bigallo is a small museum in a medieval building. It is home to several jewels of Florentine Gothic painting. It was built in the 1350s for the Compagnia della Misericordia (the Company of Mercy), a religious charitable organization founded in 1244 to aid the sick and bury the dead. It still exists today and you can see their ambulances parked just across the street at the Museo della Misericordia, which was originally an orphanage. The building was commissioned as a place to display abandoned babies in the hope they might be recognized before being given to foster parents. Today it houses a small museum which tells the history of the charity.

Baptistery of St John

Stand before the "Gate of Paradise".

The Baptistery of San Giovanni (St. John) is one of the most ancient churches in Florence, sitting opposite the Duomo. It is the most conspicuous illustration of the special relationship between Florence and ancient Rome, as the Florentines believe the Baptistery is actually a converted Roman temple to Mars. The granite columns inside were probably taken from the city's old Roman Capitol. But it's the doors to the Baptistery which are the primary attraction. They took 27 years to complete and were so beautiful that they became known as the "Gate of Paradise". 

Late Afternoon to Evening — Santa Maria Novella

You can step back in time as you explore the narrow streets near the River Arno, around the Piazza Santa Trinita. This area of Florence best retains its former medieval character and taking a stroll here will give you some idea of how Florence felt in when every big house was an urban fortress (although the tall defensive towers that rich families built to protect against attacks from their neighbors have long gone). You'll squeeze your way through streets with names like Via dell'Inferno and Via del Purgatorio. Once done exploring, admire the fresco masterpieces of the Church of Santa Maria Novella juxtaposed next to the 1930s Italian rationalist architecture of the railway station of the same name. A few minutes' walk away there's also the church of Ogissanti where you can see masterpieces by the likes of Botticelli.

Basilica of Santa Maria Novella

Stand before the magnificent high altar and stare up at the beautiful frescoes telling the stories of St. John the Baptist and the Virgin Mary.

The church of Santa Maria Novella is the Florentine base of the Dominican order. You won’t be disappointed by the works of art within it, especially the masterpiece frescoes and the high altar. The frescoes depict scenes from the lives of the Virgin and St John the Baptist and are liberally sprinkled with the likenesses of certain ladies from the family which commissioned the paintings. Just outside the church you'll find its cemetery, which is ringed by an arcade containing the burial vaults of upper-class families.

Day 6

Florence

Day 7

Florence

Day 7

Florence

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM

Chianti Excursion

Spend a wonderful afternoon with in the Chianti wine region near Florence on a half-day guided deluxe van tour. With hotel pick-up and drop-off you can relax and enjoy the scenery and the Chianti Classico wine region.

Half Day Guided Excursion to Chianti

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM — Chianti Excursion

Afternoon to Early Evening — Country Villas

The Medicis and other powerful families of Renaissance Florence constructed magnificent country villas in the foothills surrounding the city and surrounded them with elaborate gardens populated with rose bushes, manicured hedgerows, and citrus trees. You can explore these beautiful villas which are concentrated in an area just a short bus ride from the city center of Florence. The villas served several functions, first and foremost as country palaces demonstrating power and wealth. They were also recreational resorts for the leisure and pleasure of their owners; and, more prosaically, they were the center of agricultural activities on the surrounding estates.

Villa di Castello

See the villa where Tuscany's first Grand Duke spent his childhood.

Villa di Castello is a 15th century Medici villa mostly famous as the residence where Duke Cosimo I de’Medici spent his childhood. Cosimo, who was later called the Father of the Nation, was the first member of the Medici political dynasty. Not surprisingly, Villa di Castello was his favourite villa and as an adult he expanded it with an extensive garden second only to the Boboli Gardens that included footpaths, fountains and the world famous Animal Grotto. The Villa is not accessible to the public since it has been the home of the prestigious Crusca Academy since 1583, a school dedicated to the study of the Italian language. You can, however, visit the splendid gardens without paying.

Villa La Petraia

Experience an amazing view of Florence as you stroll the gardens of this Medici family villa.

This fortified hilltop mansion was purchased by the Medici in the 16th century and transformed into a princely residence by Cardinal Ferdinando. The villa is richly decorated in the interior and has a beautiful Italian garden that attracts visitors from all around the world. The courtyard that is decorated with frescoes by Cosimo Daddi is probably the most impressive part of the villa, while a series of rooms you can visit present a later style. Both the structured Italian garden and the villa are open to visitors and the admission is free, with guided visits.

Day 7

Florence

Day 8

Florence to Venice

Day 8

Florence to Venice

Morning

San Marco Museum

The devil, they say, is in the details, but so are the better angels. Case in point, the faces of Fra Angelico's cherubs and saints (and sinners) at his former friary, the Museum of San Marco. An inspiration to the later giants of the Renaissance, Fra Angelico mastered light and human expression. Every character in his paintings is unique, and they express their joy, sorrow, or wonder uniquely. Even with the overwhelming number of masterpieces in Florence, a visit to San Marco merits a visit; the gentleness of Fra Angelico's work will bring you gentle down to earth, even as it lifts your heart.

The Quiet Mastery in San Marco Museum

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Museo di San Marco

Painting as an Act of Love: Fra Angelico in the San Marco Friary

The Quiet Mastery in San Marco Museum

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Museo di San Marco

Painting as an Act of Love: Fra Angelico in the San Marco Friary

The Quiet Mastery in San Marco Museum

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Museo di San Marco

Painting as an Act of Love: Fra Angelico in the San Marco Friary

Morning — San Marco Museum

Museo di San Marco

Painting as an Act of Love: Fra Angelico in the San Marco Friary

The crowds thin out slightly beyond the Galleria dell'Accademia, and not far beyond it rests the superlative frescos of Fra Angelico, in the Museum of San Marco.  Tender, but never saccharin, gentle, but never sentimental, his paintings grace the walls of this former friary and expose another side of the Renaissance. Fra Angelico's subjects are always treated respectfully, and the breadth of facial expressions is remarkable, if subtle. With a peaceful atmosphere, and a lesser amount of people, this museum might provide the most intimate experience you will find with Renaissance masterpieces in Florence. 

11:20 AM — Transfer to Rail Station

Most trains depart from Firenza S.M.N. (i.e. Florence Santa Maria Novella Station) station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option; trams and buses drop off next to the station. Uber is available in Florence, and if staying at a hotel, they can order a reliable taxi. Some private transfers will even help with your bags.

12:20 - 14:34 — Train to Venice

Your approximately two-hour rail journey to Venice will travel through the famously beautiful countryside of Tuscany and cross the also picturesque regions of Emilia Romagna and Veneto, traversing the Apennine Mountains and passing through historical cities such as Bologna and Padua. The journey is especially convenient since you can take a direct, high-speed train - the Frecciarossa, which reaches speeds of up to 250 miles per hour (400 km/h) and offers maximum comfort.

2:34 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

All trains should arrive in Venice Santa Lucia (Venezia S Lucia) station, the main station in Venice. If by chance your train ends in Venice Mestre Railway Station, that means you have not actually arrived in Venice, and must switch to a train that takes you across the water to Santa Lucia station. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also, consider that there is no wheeled traffic in Venice. That means you will either need to take a public water bus or pre-book a private water taxi to the dock nearest your hotel. Water buses are very reliable and one-way tickets can be purchased on the spot. Better yet, you can also purchase Venezia Unica Cards or another city pass which includes transport. Private Water Taxis are generally expensive (around 70 euros depending on the distance) but they will take you nearer to your hotel, or if your hotel has a dock, directly to the dock.

Late Afternoon — The Grand Canal

Snaking through the heart of Venice, the Grand Canal is the main artery of Venice. Flanked by Gothic, Renaissance and Moorish palaces, a trip down the Canal is often the highlight of many people's trip. While the Gondola is the most romantic option, many opt for the less glamorous but equally as enjoyable ride on the 3.8 kilometres Water Bus Line 1, which passes some 50 palazzi and passes underneath the famous Rialto Bridge.

Rialto Bridge

Walk over or ride under the most famous bridge on the Grand Canal.

The 16th-century Rialto Bridge is the most iconic bridge in Venice. With a width of other 75 feet (23m) and span of over 100 feet (31m), the wide stone footbridge crosses over the Grand Canal and connects the San Marco and San Polo districts. It stands on the spot of an earlier wooden drawbridge which collapsed under the weight of a crowd gathered on it to watch a wedding procession. It took almost 150 years before the current Rialto bridge was built, this time in stone, and thus still stands as a symbol of the city. Surrounded by tourist shops and pricey restaurants, it sits on 12,000 wooden pilings and will be forever immortalised in millions of photographs as the backdrop to the classic Venetian photo shot, which captures the city's gondolas as they ferry lovers around the Grand Canal. While for many a gondola ride is a must-do experience in Venice, it's also possible to admire the bridge on foot. For a less-pricey way of seeing it from the water, you can always take the Number 1 local Vaporetto (water bus) and see the bridge as you pass underneath. 

Ca'd'Oro

Admire the elaborate 15th-century Gothic facade of this famous building along the Grand Canal.

The fifteenth-century Gothic and Renaissance style building is known as the house of gold because it once covered in gold leaf decoration. Despite the loss of the gilt facade, it is still one of the Venice’s most striking buildings and its best preserved Gothic palace. It can be appreciated from the Grand Canal but for those who want a closer look, it also houses the Galleria Giorgio Franchetti, a small art museum with a lovely restored interior. Just as good as the art is the opportunity to admire the lovely courtyard and to stand on the loggia above the Grand Canal and take in the view.

Early Evening/Evening — Zattere

The Fondamenta delle Zattere in the Dorsoduro sestiere (district) is a beautiful promenade with many bars, restaurants and ice cream parlors. It has a great view across the Giudecca Canal and therefore makes for a lovely evening out to enjoy some Venetian cuisine and wines from the Veneto region. The nearby canals of Dorsoduro are also home to myriad bars and al fresco dining venues in the summer months.

Day 8

Florence to Venice

Day 9

Venice

Day 9

Venice

9:30 AM - 12:30 PM

'First Walk', Guided Tour in Venice

If you are a first-time visitor to Venice, the best approach is an introductory tour. This 3-hour private guided walking excursion begins with a selection of the “must sees,” including St. Mark's Square, the former political center of the Venetian Republic, with its many famous buildings: the Doges' Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, the Marciana Library, the Bell Tower, and the Clock Tower. You'll end your tour in the Rialto neighborhood next to the famous Rialto Bridge.

'First Walk' Guided Tour in Venice

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Doges' Palace

Explore the staterooms and masterpieces inside this famous Gothic-style Palace.

'First Walk' Guided Tour in Venice

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Doges' Palace

Explore the staterooms and masterpieces inside this famous Gothic-style Palace.

'First Walk' Guided Tour in Venice

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Doges' Palace

Explore the staterooms and masterpieces inside this famous Gothic-style Palace.

9:30 AM - 12:30 PM — 'First Walk', Guided Tour in Venice

Doges' Palace

Explore the staterooms and masterpieces inside this famous Gothic-style Palace.

Important Note: Entry lines can be very long. We suggest taking advantage of skip the line entry. As the name suggests, the Palace was the official residence of the Venetian rulers, the Doges, and the chief magistrates. The building was founded in the 9th century, but the present one dates from the 14th century. Tour its elaborate staterooms, grand halls and the 24-carat golden staircase before seeking out its collection of priceless masterpieces by Venetian artists including Titan, Veronese and Tintoretto. Be sure to spend some time in the most incredible room of all, the Chamber of the Great Council, the assembly hall where all Venetian patricians gathered to participate in the running of the city - up to 2,500 at any one time. There you will find the Doge's throne and the world's longest canvas painting in the world, Tintoretto's Il Paradiso.

Afternoon — St Mark's Square

St Mark's Square was the embodiment of The Most Serene Republic of Venice's power and prestige, and as such contains its most magnificent public buildings: the extraordinary golden mosaic-encrusted basilica of St Mark's, the exquisite Doge's Palace, the all-seeing bell tower, the Bibliotecca Marciana library, and what is nowadays the famous Correr Museum. If timed correctly, it is possible to see all these sights on your own within half a day, although a guide can make the process much more efficient (and more educational as well). Keep in mind that the square is one of the most heavily touristed places in the world, so crowds and lines can be an issue. St Mark the Evangelist was not the patrion saint of Venice until 829 AD, when two Venetian merchants stole St. Mark's remains from their original resting place in a chuch in Alexandria, Egypt, and then smuggled the relics home trussed up in a canvas sheet. The pretext for the theft was that the Muslim conquerors of Alexandria were expected to defile and plunder the church. While this may have been true, it is no coincidence that bringing such an important saint's relics to Venice was hugely important politically and signaled Venice's place as a rising independent power. A church was built to house the relics, and St. Mark's Square was established as the spiritual and political heart of the city.

St Mark's Square Campanile

Ascend this reconstructed cathedral bell tower for amazing views over St Marks Square, St Mark's Basilica and the Venetian lagoon.

Standing at 325 feet (99m) high, the Campanile, i.e. bell tower, of St. Mark's Basilica dominates the city's iconic square. Crowned by a spire that once acted as a lighthouse for Venice's naval ships, the cathedral tower was first built in the 10th century AD but underwent repeated repairs, reconstructions, and additions until reaching its current form in the 16th century. It was also a prominent part of the Venetian penal system as criminals were sometimes subjected to the Supplizio della Cheba (Torture of the Cage), which involved being incarcerated inside a crate that was hoisted up the south side of the tower to be left dangling there for several days or more in all weather. The tower collapsed in 1902, and what you see today is actually an exact replica (with the convenient addition of an elevator). The bell tower is now one of the most visited sights in Venice, offering some incredible panoramic views over the city and its canals. Lines are long, but a ticket can be reserved in advance for an extra few Euros.

St Marks Basilica

Step inside Venice's most sacred and famous landmark and admire the glittering mosaics of the basilica's domes.

Important Note: Entry to the basilica itself is free, but there are huge crowds queuing up outside to see the interior at almost any time of year (waiting times are on average 45min), so we very strongly advise you to purchase a 'skip the line' ticket A private chapel for the use of the Doges, the rulers of Venice, was purpose-built on the site and consecrated in 832 to house the stolen relics of St Mark. Destroyed in a fire, a replica was soon built, but this was in turn superseded by a third structure in 1063-94; the Basilica of St Mark. Today, it is one of the most iconic landmarks in Venice and a sight to behold for all visitors. The glittering mosaics, the golden altar behind St Mark's sarcophagus, its beautiful chapels, and treasury make it a sight you absolutely can not afford to miss.  The stunning golden mosaics lining the interior were begun in the 12th century and work continued on them over the intervening centuries, but much of the exterior and interior decoration is actually art and monuments looted from cities defeated by Venice in its many wars. Many trophies seem out of place in a church, such as the Four Horses of San Marco, which were taken from Constantinople where they had once stood in the Hippodrome (the chariot racing arena). But the Venetians felt that anything which glorified Venice also reflected the glory and intercession of their patron saint, and thus belonged in the Basilica.

Doges' Palace

Explore the staterooms and masterpieces inside this famous Gothic-style Palace.

Torre dell'Orologio

Check out a renaissance clock tower dating from 1499.

St Mark's Clocktower or the Moors' Clocktower is one of the most famous historical landmarks in Venice. Originally built during the 15th century, the clocktower features an elaborate clock that displays the signs of the Zodiac and the current phase of the moon. It played an essential part of daily life in historical Venice, with seafarers setting out from the Grand Canal replying on its time to decide when to head out to sea. You'll notice at the top of the tower, two bronze wild men. They ring the bell on the hour. One of the men is old, the other is young, representing the passing of time.

Correr Museum

Take a fascinating journey through the history and art of Venice inside one of its most important museums.

Established in 1830, 33 years after Venice lost its independence, the Museo Correr depicts life and culture in Venice during its glory days of wealth and strength. Somewhat ironically given that the museum is dedicated to Venice's glory, the city's loss of independence made the collection possible, as many formerly wealthy Venetian families were forced to sell their treasures in the difficult conditions. Highlights in the museum include works by the famed Neoclassical sculptor Antonio Canova and a fine art collection that covers the work of many famous Venetian painters of the 13th to 16th centuries. Also fascinating are the collected antiquities from the city's long history, such as ship flags, nautical instruments, books, maps, and coins. 

Library of St Mark

Visit the magnificent monumental rooms of the Marciana Library, one of the oldest public libraries in Venice.

The Sansoviniana library, also referred to as National Marciana Library, is one of the biggest and most important libraries in Italy. Located in a beautiful Renaissance building opposite the Doge's Palace, it holds a number of valuable Greek and Latin manuscripts. The interior is richly decorated, with an impressive ceiling and a collection of Venetian paintings including works by Tintoretto and Veronese. 

Late Afternoon — The Dorsoduro District

Discover the less well-known sestiere (district) of Dorsoduro and visit its world-famous art collections at Gallerie dell'Academia, the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, and Cà Rezzonico. Once a haven for artists before rising rents drove them out, it is still a charming and unique district with many lively spots, such as the Campo Santa Margherita, one of Venice's largest squares. Be sure to take a walk along its enchanting waterfront promenade known as Zattere and explore the cafes along its canals.

Gallerie Dell'Accademia

See the incredible masterpieces held within Venice's most renowned art gallery.

Filled with some of the very best 13th- to 18th-century Venetian artwork, this is one of the most important art galleries in Italy. Here you can see masterpieces by Giovanni Bellini, Carpaccio, Titian, Tintoretto, Veronese, and Giambattista Tiepolo. There are too many masterpieces to list here, but if time allows you should definitely rent the audioguide and spend some serious time acquainting yourself with Venice's glorious art heritage. The galleries occupy the former church and convent of Santa Maria della Carità and the adjoining Scuola Grande della Carità, which was the oldest of the six "scuole grandi" – lay confraternities dedicated to charitable works. Dating back to 1343 AD, the Carità was mostly destroyed by fire, but two of its richly decorated rooms can still be seen. The other scuole grandi were also important art patrons and collectors, and many of their greatest works have also ended up in the Accademia. 

The Gesuati

Watch the sun set from the steps of this beautifully decorated 18th-century church.

The Church of Gesuati, or Santa Maria del Rosario, sits directly on the large Giudecca Canal and its steps are a favorite spot to catch the last of the sun's rays. Located on the waterfront area known as the Zattere, its a lively scene with several vaporetto stops and many nearby al fresco cafes. The interior gives you a good opportunity to acquaint yourself with the best known and successful of Venice's 18th-century painters, Giambattista Tiepolo, who frescoed the ceiling and painted the scene on the first south altar. Almost all its sculpture and paintings were created within a thirty-year period, making it an excellent time capsule of the mid-1700's. Construction began in 1725, the church was consecrated in 1743, and the last sculptural decoration was in place by 1755. Its highlight is the preserved ceiling paintings and the four large sculptures on the exterior facade, that represent Prudence, Justice, Fortitude and Temperance. 

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

See the rich collection of 20th-century art inside one of Europe's most important museums.

The Peggy Guggenheim Museum is one of the top sights in Venice, not just for art lovers. Housed in the Palazzo Venier dei Leoni, this was the former residence of the flamboyant copper heiress Peggy Guggenheim from 1949 until her death 30 years later. It houses masterpieces ranging from Cubism and Surrealism to Abstract Expressionism from artists such as Magritte, Picasso, Ernst and Miro.

Ca' Rezzonico

Acquaint yourself with Venetian art of the 18th century and get a taste of what it was like to live in a fabulously ornate palace.

Ca' Rezzonico is one of the most important 17th-18th-century palaces in Venice, abd it now houses the Museo del Settecento Veneziano, the city's collection of 18th-century art. Apart from some wonderful paintings by Tiepolo in addition to his ceiling frescoes, the museum also contains Venetian scenes painted by the brilliant landscape artist, Canaletto. Of course it is not just the art hanging on the walls that visitors come for, but the artistry of the building itself. The beautifully decorated interior, including colorful frescoes and ornate marble staircases, is well worth seeing in its own right.

Ponte dell'Accademia

Catch the iconic photo of the Grand Canal from the this attractive wood and metal bridge.

As one of only four bridges to span the Grand Canal, the Ponte dell'Accademia bridge, located right next to the Gallerie Dell'Accademia, is an important pedestrian thoroughfare and a popular spot for taking the iconic Grand Canal photograph. 

Day 9

Venice

Day 10

Venice

Day 10

Venice

Morning/Mid-Day

San Polo District

The graceful arch of the Rialto Bridge is perhaps the single most iconic sight in Venice since nearly everyone passes beneath it on their journey along the Grand Canal. It connects Venice's two most visited districts, San Marco and San Polo. While San Marco is famous for St. Mark's Square, San Polo more than holds its own as a must-see destination, as it contains some of the city's oldest neighborhoods and most picturesque canals and bridges. It is also home to some of the best restaurants in Venice, and admittedly some of its worst tourist traps as well. Among many highlights is the bustling Rialto Market, which was once one of medieval Europe's busiest financial and trade markets, and still does a brisk trade in fresh seafood and produce.

Rialto Markets

Experience the sights, tastes, and smells of Venice's historic "Pescaria" fish market, as well as the fresh produce market.

Frari Church

Step inside this inconspicuous Gothic 15th-century church to discover some of Venice's most famous tombs and artwork.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Visit this underrated art museum featuring works by the famed Renaissance artist Tintoretto.

Rialto Bridge & San Polo District

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Rialto Bridge

Walk over or ride under the most famous bridge on the Grand Canal.

Rialto Markets

Experience the sights, tastes, and smells of Venice's historic "Pescaria" fish market, as well as the fresh produce market.

Frari Church

Step inside this inconspicuous Gothic 15th-century church to discover some of Venice's most famous tombs and artwork.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Visit this underrated art museum featuring works by the famed Renaissance artist Tintoretto.

Rialto Bridge & San Polo District

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Rialto Bridge

Walk over or ride under the most famous bridge on the Grand Canal.

Rialto Markets

Experience the sights, tastes, and smells of Venice's historic "Pescaria" fish market, as well as the fresh produce market.

Morning/Mid-Day — San Polo District

Rialto Bridge

Walk over or ride under the most famous bridge on the Grand Canal.

Rialto Markets

Experience the sights, tastes, and smells of Venice's historic "Pescaria" fish market, as well as the fresh produce market.

Located close to the Rialto Bridge stands the Rialto Market, "the incomparable fish market of Venice, a glorious wet, colorful, high-smelling concourse of the sea, to which in the down hours fleets of barges bring the day's supply of sea-foods" (Jan Morris). Established well before the bridge was built, Venice's iconic market is a sight to behold, with colourful vegetable stalls and loud market vendors touting for business. It is a great spot for photographs and of course for a taste of the freshly caught fish with a host of appetising snacks on offer. Adjacent to the fish market you'll find a produce market, which is also important for a city which demands fresh ingredients for its cuisine. Keep in mind that the markets close at 1pm, and both markets are closed on Sundays (the fish market is also closed on Mondays).

Frari Church

Step inside this inconspicuous Gothic 15th-century church to discover some of Venice's most famous tombs and artwork.

The relatively austere brick Gothic Church of Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari holds many surprises. It has the second tallest campanile in Venice after St Mark's, and contains numerous masterpieces of painting and sculpture by the likes of Titian, Bellini and Donatello, plus a number of important doges' tombs, as well as Titian's tomb. Titian's majestic painting of The Assumption in the sanctuary, with its dramatic movement and coloring, is the work that established Titian's reputation as one of the greatest of all Italian painters. Even if you feel you've seen too many churches already, this one is definitely worth visiting and we recommend investing in the audio guide to get the best out of your time here.

Scuola Grande di San Rocco

Visit this underrated art museum featuring works by the famed Renaissance artist Tintoretto.

Next door to the Frari, one of the most magnificent of Venice's charitable associations, The Scuola Grande di San Rocco is one of the most magnificent of Venice's charitable associations. The building was completed in 1560, and Tintoretto won a competition held to select an artist to decorate the interior. Over the next 23 years, he executed an incomparable series of paintings that cover the walls and ceilings. According to the writer Jan Morris, "no collection of sacred pictures is more overwhelming of impact than the immense series of Tintorettos in the Scuola [...] - often dark, often grandiose, often incomprehensible, but culminating in the huge masterpiece of the Crucifixion, which Velazquez humbly copied, and before which, to this day, you may still see strong men moved to tears."

Afternoon/Late Afternoon — San Marco District

The sestiere (district) of San Marco is much more than just St Mark's Square. It's also home to some of Venice's more unusual churches and stunning alfresco artwork, and the world-famous concert venue, La Fenice, which you can visit during the day prior to performances. As the district surrounded the political center of the Venetian Republic, St. Mark's Square, the neighborhood also has more than its fair share of impressive palaces which were owned by many of the most powerful families. Neither is St. Mark's Square the only square in the district. Wander about and you'll discover several nice squares in San Marco, including the large and pleasant Campo Santo Stefano (Santo Stefano Square), which has a much more relaxed vibe than St. Mark's. The statue in the middle of it is of Niccolo Tommaseo, an eminent man of letters who attacked censorship laws. However, the unfortunate positioning of the pile of books behind (representing his voluminous literally output) has earned the statue the nickname il Cagalibri - the Book-Shitter.

Church of Santa Stefano

Pop into this oft-missed gothic church and check out its unusual ship's-keel roof.

The Church of Santa Stefano has a canal running right under it and can be reached directly by gondola when the tide is low enough. Inside Santo Stefano, you will find a beautiful roof built like a ship's keel and some noteworthy paintings in the sacristy, including three late works by Tintoretto and a couple by Vivarini. The large bronze badge in the center of the nave marks the tomb of Francesco Morosini, the Venetian military commander and subsequent doge best known for driving the Ottomans out of Athens in 1687 when he lobbed a mortar into the Parthenon, which the Turks were using as a munitions dump, and blew the structure up.

Teatro La Fenice

Experience one of the world's most famous and beautiful opera houses.

Originally built in 1790-92, La Fenice is one of the most beautiful opera houses in Europe. It was the site of many famous opera debuts and it premiered the works of Bellini, Donizetti and Verdi. Verdi operas were so popular in the 1840s that Rigoletto, La Traviata, and Simon Boccanegra were commissioned directly by the theatre. The opera house suffered greatly over its history though. It was severely damaged by a fire in 1836, but rose from the ashes like a Phoenix (La Fenice means Phoenix in Italian). It was rebuilt within a year, only to be burnt down again 160 years later in an act of arson committed by the Mafia in 1996, requiring the theater to be rebuilt yet again. You can visit its ornate interior on a guided tour without watching a performance, but if you manage to grab tickets for a performance during your stay, you'll experience the wonderful acoustics and elegant atmosphere for which the theater is known.

Church of Saint Mary of the Lily

Take a gander at how a wealthy family redesigned this church's facade to burnish their family name and reputation.

Take a close look at the façade of the Church of Santa Maria Del Giglio and see if you can spot any overtly religious symbolism. You’ll have a hard time as this 9th-century church was given an extensive makeover in the 17th century, and it was paid for by the powerful Barbaro family as a means of celebrating the family's accomplishments. In its unending battle against conspicuous immodesty, the Venetian Republic didn’t allow commemorative statues to be erected to its citizens. So wealthy families resorted to the workaround of donating money to churches and having statues of themselves installed as donors. San Marie Del Giglio is perhaps the most striking example of this trend. Relief maps at eye level represent the locations where the family’s military and diplomatic reputations were made. The inside of the church compensates for its exterior impiety with many devotional pictures and sculptures, including Tintoretto’s Evangelists behind the altar.

Harry's Bar

Enjoy a cocktail in the legendary bar where Ernest Hemingway once hung out.

Harry's Bar, opened in the 1920s, is the most famous in the city thanks to its international clientele, including the flamboyant figures of Ernest Hemingway, Orson Welles, and Truman Copote. Inside, the bar was intentionally placed right at the entrance so that more timid clients could immediately find a place to 'lean on'. The original owner, Guiseppe Cipriana, created the dish called carpaccio - raw strips of thin beef - as well as the cocktail known as the Bellini - a mix of fresh white peach juice and prosecco. It was recently granted 'national monument' status, meaning that its original furnishings will be preserved intact. Make sure you pre-book your table and that your credit card is loaded up before you go, as it's one of the most expensive eateries in the city.

Early Evening to Late Evening — Concert Evening

Venice is a city with a number of amazing concert venues, and what better way to spend an evening than listening to the melodies of one of Italy's great composers, or watching a famous Italian opera. Two very popular venues include The Pieta and the Teatro La Fenice, one of the world's greatest opera houses. Tickets for both venues sell out fast, so it is advisable to book well in advance and dress accordingly. Venice is the city of Vivaldi, so there are always multiple Vivaldi concerts being staged throughout the year. Several of Venice's palaces, churches and scuola act as concert venues, so you're sure to find something to your liking and in the most exquisite setting imaginable.

Teatro La Fenice

Experience one of the world's most famous and beautiful opera houses.

La Pietà

Church where Vivaldi taught

The Pietà achieved fame throughout Europe in the 17th century for its music through the choral and orchestral performances give by the orphans taught by Vivaldi.

Day 10

Venice

Day 11

Venice to Milan

Day 11

Venice to Milan

Early Morning/Morning

Open Time

This is open time in Venice when there is nothing specific scheduled for you, but which you can use to retrace your steps and see more of the city in detail, head off on an excursion further afield, or perhaps catch up with relatives or old friends in an amazing and unforgettable setting.

Open Time in Venice

Early Morning/Morning — Open Time

11:20 AM — Transfer to Rail Station

Because it's impossible to travel by a land taxi in Venice you will need to take a water bus (Vaporetto) from the nearest dock on the Grand Canal to Santa Lucia train station. You can use a Venezia Unica card or other travel pass, or simply buy a one-way ticket on the spot. If you do not want to take the Vaporetto, you can arrange a private transfer by water taxi or ask your hotel front desk to arrange one for you. Be sure to give your front desk some advance notice though, as it can be difficult to get a water taxi on the spot. Water taxis are expensive (about 75 EUR +), but they should be able to pick you up much closer to your place of lodging, or if your hotel has its own dock, directly from the dock.

12:48 - 15:15 — Train from Venice to Milan

Your train journey from Venice to Milan should take about 2.5 hours if you are travelling by the direct high-speed trains which can reach speeds of up to 155 miles per hour (250km/h). As you leave Venice, you will travel across the lagoon by bridge before you reach the mainland. You will then travel through the countryside of Veneto and Lombardy, passing Vicenza, Verona and Lake Garda on your right. Definitely, a pleasant way to spend a few hours on a train!

3:15 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Most trains arrive in Milano Centrale station, the largest station in the city. Before spending money on a transfer, be sure to check whether your hotel is within easy walking distance. Also, consider that public transport is the cheapest and sometimes fastest option. Taxis are available at all rail stations but some are known for taking advantage of tourists so you may want to agree on a price before getting into the taxi or choose public transport during peak hours when there may be heavy traffic if you want to save money. However, if you prefer the convenience of not carrying your bags on public transport, they are an option. Some private transfers even meet you directly on the platform to help with bags. Uber is also available for those with the app.

Late Afternoon — Milan Cathedral

The Duomo of Milan is the last of Italy's great Gothic structures. Standing proud in the spacious Piazza del Duomo, this behemoth church is one of the world's largest Gothic cathedrals, and by far the most visited sights in Milan for tourists. Step inside and visit its interior before climbing up its stairs or riding the elevator to its terraces, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Milan cityscape and spires up close. Note that entrance to the Duomo and Terraces are by paid admission only. During high season, we recommend purchasing advanced tickets to save you time in Milan.

Museum of the Milan Cathedral

Learn about the history of Milan's Duomo's and see some of its statues and tapestries up close.

Museo del Duomo (Duomo Museum) is the museum of Milan’s striking cathedral. The duomo-centric museum which was inaugurated in 1953 features an impressive collection of statues, tapestries, embossed pieces, terracotta scale models, graphic material, paintings and wooden models from the six centuries of the Duomo's inestimable heritage. Completely refurbished in 2013, the Museo del Duomo extends over a surface area of two thousand square meters in the building next to the Palazzo Reale.

Early Evening — The Navigli Canals

Although far from Italy's surrounding seas, Milan, much like Venice, was for many centuries a navigatable city due to an intricate system of canals. In their heyday, the Navigli canals formed a 100 mile (150 km) long network that connected the city with the rivers and lakes in the Lombardian region, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, the Ticino River and the Po River. Built between 1177 and 1257, the canals were primarily used for transporting goods, such as blocks of marble that were used to construct the city’s marvellous buildings. Today, little remains of its waterway history, but the first stretch of the Naviglio Grande can still be visited. It is now lined by canal-side cafes, making it one of the city's trendiest areas. The Navigli neighborhood as a whole was until recently a working-class district with a few rough edges, but now you'll find small boutique shops alongside popular pubs and excellent restaurants serving authentic Milanese cuisine. You'll also find plenty of outdoor bars perfect for a late afternoon aperitivo and numerous art studios and little galleries hidden amongst small courtyards and side streets. Sunset on the Naviglio is one of the most popular times to visit, therefore it may be wise to book a table ahead of time if you are planning on visiting in the summer seasons.

Antico Lavatoio

Check out an intact centuries-old laundry washhouse that was used up until the 1950s.

Running alongside a small ravine, this small historic wash-house remains relatively intact. Women would kneel beside the stone stalls that are still visible to clean the clothes before washing and rinsing in the stream that is fed by the waters of the main Naviglio Grande Canal. Its an understated but beautiful reminder of the daily life of "old Milan". 

Day 11

Venice to Milan

Day 12

Milan

Day 12

Milan

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Guided Walk in Milan

Milan is the center of business and the capital of Italian fashion, but it also has an ancient heritage and a fascinating history; here you find some of the greatest masterpieces of Italian art! Together with your guide, you’ll explore the magnificent Duomo, Galleria, Scala opera house, merchant square, financial district, food street, and Sforza Castle.

La Scala Opera House

Take a tour or experience an opera or ballet in this world-famous opera house.

Sforzesco Castle

A huge Medieval-Renaissance fortress with a number of interesting history and art museums

Best of Milan Private Walking Tour

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Take a stroll through this ornate covered shopping mall that was completed in 1877.

La Scala Opera House

Take a tour or experience an opera or ballet in this world-famous opera house.

Sforzesco Castle

A huge Medieval-Renaissance fortress with a number of interesting history and art museums

Best of Milan Private Walking Tour

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Take a stroll through this ornate covered shopping mall that was completed in 1877.

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM — Guided Walk in Milan

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Take a stroll through this ornate covered shopping mall that was completed in 1877.

Known as the "drawing room" of Milan, due to its numerous shops and importance as a common Milanese meeting and dining place, the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is Italy's oldest active shopping mall and a major landmark in the city. It is one of the most magnificent shopping arcades in the world, home to some of the most luxurious boutiques and brands including Prada, Armani, Gucci.

La Scala Opera House

Take a tour or experience an opera or ballet in this world-famous opera house.

Considered one of the most important and famous theatres in the world, known as the ‘Temple of Opera’, La Scala has hosted the most revered names in the world of music and theatre. Many famous operas have had their first production in La Scala, such as Othello, Nabucco by Verdi or Madame Butterfly by Giacomo Puccini. While seeing a performance is the best way to experience the theater, visiting the Theatre Museum or taking a guided tour which includes the museum are also great options. In addition to a large collection of paintings, busts, costumes, and other objects related to the world of opera and theater, you will get to see parts of La Scala which are otherwise off limits, like the boxes. Unless a rehearsal or show is in progress, visitors can even watch the set-moving machinery in action. 

Sforzesco Castle

A huge Medieval-Renaissance fortress with a number of interesting history and art museums

The Sforzesco Castle, one of the most popular monuments in Milan, has undergone various and complex transformations over the centuries; it has been defense fortress, military barracks, private residence and now a center of cultural institutions with several specialized museums and galleries that hold important fragments of Milan's cultural and civic history.

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon — Sforzesco Castle

The Sforzesco Castle is one of the most popular monuments in Milan. It has undergone various transformations over the centuries; it has been a defensive fortress, a military barracks, and a private residence. Today it is a center of cultural institutions and contains several specialized museums that hold important fragments of Milan's cultural and civic history. Located behind the castle is Parco Sempione, Milan's largest English style park, where you'll also find one of the best lookout towers in the city.

Fontana di Piazza Castello

Check out the "wedding cake", a large fountain located in front of the Sforzesco Castle.

In the center of Piazza Castello you cannot miss the fountain called "turta di spus” (a nickname derived from its round, flat shape topped with a fan-shaped jet that makes it look like a wedding cake). Not only a beautiful site, the fountain is also a historical reminder of a troubled era. It was constructed and placed in the piazza in the late thirties in the height of Fascist rule. The original fountain was commissioned by the electricity company AEM for Mussolini's visit to Milan. It was removed in 1959 and stored away so the red metro line could be built underneath, and was restored to its original glory in 1999. 

Parco Sempione

Relax in Milan's garden oasis located behind the grand Castello Sforzesco.

Parco Sempione is the biggest park in the heart of the city. This large English-style park is entirely fenced in and includes numerous recreational areas. It owes its name to its position along the line that leads through the Arco della Pace from the Milano Duomo to the high mountain pass between the Pennine Alps and the Lepontine Alps in Switzerland. The park has an overall area of over 47 hectares with various species of trees, bushes and flowers dispersed among its many vivid green lawns and a pretty artificial lake, which houses numerous kinds of birds.

Torre Branca

Ascend to the top for sweeping city views of Milan, and on clear days, even the Alps!

An often overlooked sight but one that provides the best view over Milan is the Torre Branca located to the west of the Parco Sempione. The tower is one of the highest structures in the city at 108 meters tall. The modern lift within the tower allows people to ride to the top in less than one minute. On clear days, from the 18,5-meter-wide platform, you can see a nice portion of the Lombard plains, the Alps, and the Apennines, in addition to the entire Milanese skyline. 

Late Afternoon to Evening — City Center

Milan's city center is by no means small, but it is conveniently compact, making it very easy to explore a multiple of attractions one after the other. It is also home to some of the city's blockbuster sights, with the magnificent Duomo sat right at its heart. From its large piazza, you can choose to explore its luxurious shopping scene, visit some of the city's world-class art, see Milan's famous Scala theatre or simply sit in one of the street side cafes and watch some of Milan's best-dressed citizens come and go.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II

Take a stroll through this ornate covered shopping mall that was completed in 1877.

La Scala Opera House

Take a tour or experience an opera or ballet in this world-famous opera house.

Corso Vittorio Emanuele II

Stroll down one of Milan's longest shopping streets, home to a plethora of high street brands.

One of the fashion capitals of Europe, Milan is as stylish as they come, so its no wonder that it is a haven for shopping. While there are numerous shopping streets in Milan Corso Vittorio Emanuele II holds the 1st place as the most popular place to shop in the city. Named after the great Vittorio Emanuele II, the first king of United Italy, its spacious porticoed pavements in a wholly pedestrianized area means it has become the favorite city stroll for citizens and tourists alike.

Museo del Novecento

Take your time in this fascinating 3-floor modern art museum located on the Piazza del Duomo.

Opened in 2010, the Museo del Novecento houses a dedicated exhibition displaying Milan’s superb collection of 20th-century art. Built around a futuristic spiral ramp (an ode to the Guggenheim), the lower floors are cramped, but the heady collection features over 4000 masterpieces from Italian and international artists. On view are paintings by Picasso, Modigliani, Mondrian, Kandinsky, Boccioni, Carrà, Soffici, de Chirico, Sironi, Martini, Morandi, Fontana, Manzoni and Kounellis to name a few. There is even a highly-rated bistro on the 3rd floor with good views of the Duomo of Milan. 

Day 12

Milan

Day 13

Milan

Day 13

Milan

Morning to Late Afternoon

Excursion to Lake Como

Often cited as the most picturesque lake in Europe, Lake Como has enchanted artists and travelers for centuries and it's easy to see why. Tucked away in the foothills of the northern Italian Alps, Lake Como is the perfect day trip destination from Milan, offering the perfect chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Discover some of the picturesque lakeside villages, take a thrilling boat ride across the lake, or explore the many grand villas and beautiful gardens.

Villa Cipressi

Explore the lush gardens surrounding this villa and enjoy stunning lake views from its terraces.

Lake Como Funicular

Ride a 19th Century funicular up the mountainside above Como to enjoy beautiful views over Lake Como.

Cruise on Lake Como

Take a liesurely private sail, enjoy a lake cruise, or villa hop by ferry.

Bellagio

Visit Lake Como's most famously beautiful lakeside town.

Self Guided Excursion to Lake Como

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Cathedral of Como

Admire the wonderful details of this grand Duomo which incorporates architectural styles from across five centuries.

Villa Melzi

Wander through the magnificent lakeside gardens which surround this beautiful white villa in Bellagio.

Villa Monastero

Visit a villa that began as a peaceful lakeside convent and was later transformed into a luxurious residence.

Villa Cipressi

Explore the lush gardens surrounding this villa and enjoy stunning lake views from its terraces.

Lake Como Funicular

Ride a 19th Century funicular up the mountainside above Como to enjoy beautiful views over Lake Como.

Cruise on Lake Como

Take a liesurely private sail, enjoy a lake cruise, or villa hop by ferry.

Bellagio

Visit Lake Como's most famously beautiful lakeside town.

Self Guided Excursion to Lake Como

Browse the gallery to see some of the highlights

Cathedral of Como

Admire the wonderful details of this grand Duomo which incorporates architectural styles from across five centuries.

Villa Melzi

Wander through the magnificent lakeside gardens which surround this beautiful white villa in Bellagio.

Villa Monastero

Visit a villa that began as a peaceful lakeside convent and was later transformed into a luxurious residence.

Morning to Late Afternoon — Excursion to Lake Como

Cathedral of Como

Admire the wonderful details of this grand Duomo which incorporates architectural styles from across five centuries.

The imposing cathedral (Duomo) is located in the heart of Como's medieval walled city. Built between 1300 and 1744, the cathedral brings together elements of several architectural styles, including the late Gothic structure, the Renaissance facade, and the imposing Baroque dome. The front façade boasts an abundance of ornate stonework and stone statues, and is topped with a series of small decorative towers. The interior is also lavishly decorated. The standout feature is a central dome covered with gold artwork and other beautiful decor.

Villa Melzi

Wander through the magnificent lakeside gardens which surround this beautiful white villa in Bellagio.

The town of Bellagio was fought over in wars between Como and Milan, but most of the time, it has been a destination of pleasure and leisure since late Roman times. For this reason, Napoleon decided to reward one of his generals, Francesco Melzi, with the white neo-Classical Villa Melzi. Located to the south of the Bellagio, it is visited primarily for its spectacular gardens, embellished with ancient artefacts such as an Etruscan urn that dates back to the 3rd Century BC and two ancient Egyptian sculptures.

Villa Monastero

Visit a villa that began as a peaceful lakeside convent and was later transformed into a luxurious residence.

Built-in various styles (Baroque, Classic and Moresque), the origins of the Villa Monastero in the town of Varenna stretch back to the 12th century, when it was founded as a Cistercian convent. The estate was purchased by Paolo Mornico in 1569, using his fortune amassed through iron mining. He then transformed it into a very elaborate aristocratic residence, while retaining some beautiful elements from the convent. These days the villa is now used as an international conference center and wedding venue. Luckily for visitors, the gardens are open to the public and there is also a House Museum, which features 14 lavish rooms filled with period furniture, refined decorations, and luxurious furnishings.

Villa Cipressi

Explore the lush gardens surrounding this villa and enjoy stunning lake views from its terraces.

Just a short distance from Villa Monastero, you'll find the Villa Cirpressi, a grand villa built between the 15th and 19th century which offers great architectural elements of late Renaissance and fine Neoclassical features. Aside from the villa which is now a 4-star hotel, it is home to another manicured lakeside garden. Smaller in size, the centuries-old gardens are open to the public to visit, offering a journey of perfumes and magical sensations that go beyond a normal botanical garden. The terraced garden overlooking the lake deserves a visit, especially for anyone interested in nature. 

Lake Como Funicular

Ride a 19th Century funicular up the mountainside above Como to enjoy beautiful views over Lake Como.

Lake Como is surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, and while it’s definitely possible to hike up the steep incline on foot, most people opt to ride on the Brunate Funicular, which brings riders to the small town of Brunate in just 7 minutes. The Funicular Railway has linked Lake Como and Brunate since 1894 and is still the quickest way of travelling between these two towns. A trip on the railway offers stunning views and an opportunity to see panoramic views of rural Como, all whilst having an enjoyable jaunt on a train!

Cruise on Lake Como

Take a liesurely private sail, enjoy a lake cruise, or villa hop by ferry.

One good way to combine a lake cruise with visits to the best villas and prettiest towns is to use the lake ferries. Just take the train from Milan to Varenna and then when you're done there, catch a ferry across the lake to Bellagio. From Bellagio you can take another ferry to Como, where you can catch a train back to Milan. If you go straight to Como, from April to October there are leisure boats offering 30-minute journeys along the nearby shoreline. With a high number of tourists, boats leave quite frequently and are very affordable at around 5 Euros per person. The better boats will point out sites of interest along the way, including spots where famous movies were filmed. If you want a truly special experience, you can also hire a private tour on a sail boat or small motor yacht. You'll feel like a real movie star as the you glide across the blue waters of the lake and wave to your fellow celebrities in the passing boats.

Bellagio

Visit Lake Como's most famously beautiful lakeside town.

It is impossible not to be smitten by Bellagio's picturesque waterfront, bobbing boats and its maze of stone staircases, alleys, and cypress tree groves, and you may want to spend the most time during your day trip here. Bellagio has been a favored summertime resort since the Roman Times, and very little has changed, with Italians and tourists heading to the lakes for a cooler (but still incredibly warm) climate, away from the sweltering heat of the cities.

Early Evening to Late Evening — Concert, Self Guided

Milan knows how to satisfy all types of tastes; lyric, theatre, entertainment, music, and all sorts of artistic expression find their place in the city. As the city of Verdi, Milan has welcomed some of the world's most famous classical musicians for over two centuries and boasts one of the most famous opera houses in the world, the La Scala Theatre. You can enjoy a night out at this iconic theatre where famous opera singers such as Maria Callas, Renata Tebaldi, Giulietta Simionato, Mirella Freni and Luciano Pavarotti have performed. Milan also hosts a variety of music festivals and fashion events during the year and for those interested. You may also wish to head to nearby Verona for the annual Opera Festival.

La Scala Opera House

Take a tour or experience an opera or ballet in this world-famous opera house.

Day 13

Milan

Day 14

Depart Milan

Day 14

Depart Milan

To Be Determined

Taxi, Train or Bus Transfer to Airport

There are three main airports in Milan. You will likely depart from Malpensa although you may also depart from Milano Bergamo or Milano Linate if you are flying within Europe. The most affordable and fast way to reach Milan Malpensa airport is by train. The Malpensa Express train takes only 35 minutes and leaves directly from the main Centrale station in central Milan. The most affordable way to reach Milan Bergamo airport is by bus. The bus takes about 1 hour and leaves directly from Milano Centrale Train Station in central Milan. To reach Linate Airport you are best taking a taxi as it is only 10km from the city center. Your hotel can arrange a reliable taxi or if you have the app, Uber is also a good option. You can also arrange a private transfer. If you are picked up about 4 hours before your departure time, you should arrive at the Malpensa or Bergamo airport with about 3 hours to spare, depending on traffic. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra fifteen to thirty minutes.

Transfer to Airport by Taxi. Train or Bus

To Be Determined — Taxi, Train or Bus Transfer to Airport

Day 14

Depart Milan

What's Included In Essence of Italy Trip

Pre-Paid Tours and Activities:

Heart of the Empire - Private Tour of Ancient Rome & the Colosseum
Florence in Half a Day: Guided Highlights Walk
Half Day Guided Excursion to Chianti
'First Walk' Guided Tour in Venice
Best of Milan Private Walking Tour
City Card for Rome, including discounts to many popular attractions

Add or Drop Tours

Pre-Paid Transportation:

2nd Class Train Tickets from Roma Termini to Firenze S.M.N.
2nd Class Train Tickets from Firenze S.M.N. to Venezia Santa Lucia
2nd Class Train Tickets from Venezia Santa Lucia to Milano Centrale
Public Transport Tickets for Venice and Rome
Private Transfer from Rome Fiumicino to Hotel
Private Transfer to Rome Termini Train Station

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Accommodation:

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3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Florence
3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Venice
3 nights at a hotel of your choice in Milan

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Explore cities in more detail

Rome

One of the must-sees of Italy, and indeed all of Europe, Rome is a city with history flowing through its veins. There is an endless amount to see, do, and learn here, with something for every taste and disposition. Rome was the center of Western civilization for a Millenium and during that time, accumulated a list of historical and cultural treasures that no other destination can truly match. The Pantheon, Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Cirus of Maxentius are just a few examples of what can be seen and experienced in Rome, which at times feels more like a giant outdoor museum than a city. At Rome’s heart, you’ll find the Vatican, home of the Roman Catholic Church and the Pope. Here visitors can see the legendary Sistine Chapel. Transcending a mere building, the chapel is a walk-in work of art. Although historical sights can be found on just about every corner, it’s entirely possible to fill a day just wandering around Rome. The city’s charming streets and open Piazzas are filled with beautiful sights and places to sit, grab the best Cappuccino in the world, and enjoy the view.

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Florence

Culture and history are thick in the air in Florence. Located on the banks of the Arno River in Tuscany, Florence’s past is deeply compelling. The birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is where innovators like Dante, Machiavelli, Michelangelo, and Da Vinci made their fortunes. Centuries of art, politics, and commerce have left their mark on every stone in this Northern Italian city. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Florentine banks funded new enterprises that went on to change the history of the world. Powerful families like the Medici’s financed some of the finest art in history and pioneered new ways of doing statecraft and politics. As you stand in the Piazzale Michelangelo and gaze upon the city below it’s hard to take it all in at once. It feels like behind every door in Florence might hide a work of genius. Michelangelo’s David and Botticelli’s Primavera can be found just a short walk away. After a long day wandering the streets and gazing at art, fueled by exquisite coffee and gelato, relax like the locals do: with a glass of some of the best wine in the world.

Learn About Florence

Venice

Venice is a city with no equal. Built on a series of islands on a lagoon, it was once a powerful city-state. Echoes of that old magnificence can be seen everywhere here, from the stunning buildings that rise out of the canals, to the bridges that arc across them. Take a Gondola ride through the canals that form the city’s veins, or wander through the winding streets drinking in the sights. You’ll see Venice attracts tourists in huge numbers, and that’s with good reason. It’s home to a seemingly limitless amount of art, culture, history, and architecture. St Mark’s Basilica, the Doge’s Palace, and the Campanile di San Marco just barely scratch the surface. There’s a 700-year-old market, Rialto, which is still open today. The Ponte di Rialto bridge connects the neighborhoods of San Marco and San Polo, stretching across the Grand Canal. Venice has weathered the last several centuries with elegance and pride, a place that will surpass even your highest expectations.

Learn About Venice

Milan

Milan is Italy’s most forward-looking city. An international center for fashion, fine dining, and design, it seems as though Milanese people breathe style. From the gleam on your wine glass to the twists of its cathedral’s spires, everything in Milan is finished to perfection. Home to the Italian stock exchange, a world-famous fashion industry, and a frantic business district, Milan is fast-paced and commercially minded. The shopping in Milan is second to none. At the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world’s oldest shopping malls, a glass-iron ceiling soars over brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Massimo Dutti, and Amani. Along with the fashion, Milan’s cathedral, castle, and canals are also must-sees. But to view the city’s most prized possession - Leonardo da Vinci’s Last Supper, you must make an appointment. Tickets to view this mural sell out weeks in advance. It is truly a bucket-list worthy work of art. After a day taking in all the glamor and culture, take a seat in one of Milan’s well-appointed eateries. The Navigli Quarter is packed with restaurants, bars, and cafes, perfect for a relaxed Aperol spritz or pizza along the city’s canals.

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Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, a string of five fishing villages in the Liguria region of Italy, is a rare snapshot of a traditional way of life. Rustic and charming, these clusters of pastel houses clinging to steep Mediterranean cliffs hold a special allure. Hiking between the five villages is a popular way to experience the rugged Mediterranean landscape close up. There are no roads here — the only other way to get between the villages is by boat or train. Seafood, hauled in from the azure waters of the sea that laps against the rocky shore, is abundant and delicious here. It pairs well with the local wine, and perhaps a plate of olives. Cinque Terre is a place to take it slow, to breathe in the fresh sea air and bask in the balmy climate, many miles from the chaos and frenzy of the modern world.

Learn About Cinque Terre

Naples

Gritty and chaotic Naples calls to travelers who want to experience the real Italy. Pressed along the coast of Campania, hilly Naples is jammed with maze-like streets, strung with outdoor clotheslines, descending toward the sea below. A much deserved UNESCO World Heritage site, Naples is famous for its churches, museums, castles, and catacombs. As you navigate the city, you’ll find yourself immersed by its culture and history. You can easily occupy a full day gazing at churches like the Naples Cathedral, San Francesco di Paola, and Cappella Sansevero. If you cast your eyes toward the Gulf of Naples, you’ll see Mount Vesuvius looming over the harbor. This foreboding volcano erupted in AD 79. Not far from the inner city — less than an hour by train — you’ll find the ancient town of Pompeii, its dramatic ruins still preserved in ash from the eruption. One of the best things you can do in Naples is to eat. This is the city where pizza was born. Propped up by its ripe tomatoes, local cheeses, and fresh fish, food from Naples has come to define what many see as the height of Italian cuisine. Everything you taste in Naples seems like a delicacy. Authentic and vivid, Naples is a true Italian city where the ancient world meets the modern-day with a bang.

Learn About Naples

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The Essence of Italy: From Ancient Wonders to Scenic Beauty

14 Day Tour of Rome, Florence, Venice and Milan

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Essence of Italy Trip - Map & Itinerary

Essence of Italy Trip Timeline

Day-By-Day Itinerary of Essence of Italy Trip

Private Transfer to your Hotel

To Be Determined — Private Transfer to your Hotel

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Rome's Historic Center

Piazza Navona

Pantheon

Column of Marcus Aurelius

Via del Corso

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps

Keats-Shelly House

The Trevi Fountain

Mausoleum of Augustus

Piazza del Popolo

To Be Determined — Private Transfer to your Hotel

Mid-Day/Afternoon — Rome's Historic Center

Piazza Navona

Pantheon

Column of Marcus Aurelius

Via del Corso

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Spanish Steps

Spanish Steps

Keats-Shelly House

The Trevi Fountain

Mausoleum of Augustus

Piazza del Popolo

Ancient Rome Guided Walk

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM — Ancient Rome Guided Walk

Colosseum

Mid-Day to Late Afternoon — Piazza Venezia

Vittorio Emanuele II Monument

Capitoline Square & Capitoline Museums

Markets of Trajan

Trajan's Column

Early Evening to Late Evening — Trastevere

Basilica di Santa Maria

Vatican City

Early Morning to Late Afternoon — Vatican City

St Peter's Square

Sistine Chapel

Vatican Museums

St Peter’s Basilica

Vatican Gardens

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Castel Sant'Angelo

Mausoleum of Hadrian

Ponte Sant'Angelo

Esquilino District

Morning/Mid-Day — Esquilino District

Baths of Diocletian

Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli

Palazzo Massimo alle Terme

Afternoon to Evening — Ostia Antica

Bath of Neptune

Square of Guilds

Theater

Ostia Antica Museum

Villa Borghese Gardens

Morning — Villa Borghese Gardens

Medici Villa

Galleria Borghese

National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art

12:10 PM — Private Transfer to Rome Train Station

13:10 - 14:46 — Train to Florence

2:46 PM — Transfer from Rail Station

Late Afternoon/Early Evening — Santa Croce

Basilica of Santa Croce

Casa Buonarroti

Synagogue

Secure Your Customizable Trip
Enter your details to embark on a journey that can be tailored just for you.

Craft Your Own Itinerary
Select your interests and destinations for a trip plan inspired by you.