Highlights of Italy

10 Days

Highlights of Italy Upgrade

Explore Venice, Florence and Rome

Italy is home to countless beautiful cities, but perhaps none more famous than Venice, Florence and Rome. This 6 or 9-night vacation gives you the opportunity to explore these three iconic cities and travel through the Italian countryside by rail.

Unique Explorations

  • Explore the off-the-beaten path sites in Venice during your included gondola tour!
  • Stare into the eyes of Michelangelo’s David with a visit to the Accademia in Florence.
  • Indulge in a decadent serving of gelato in its home city of Florence!
  • Legend has it if you toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, you will be guaranteed a return trip to Rome; toss one in and find out!
  • Take a walk through history as you visit the ruins of the ancient Roman civilization.

This vacation has been carefully crafted for a great independent travel experience. This isn’t a bus, group, or tour guide vacation but one where you can set your own pace of discovery every day. However, you’re not alone – if you need any help during your trip, we’re just a phone call or an email away.

Your Italian adventure awaits! You’ll start in the floating city of Venice, where your days will be spent exploring Gothic palaces and navigating the water-laden streets. You’ll enjoy a guided walking tour which will take you to some of the city’s most iconic sights, as well as a unique gondola tour, so you can see the sights from land and water!

After a comfortable train ride, you’ll then arrive in Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance. Your special Medieval and Renaissance walking tour will take you on a tour through time as you visit the city’s most famous sights. From discovering the remnants of its Medieval past to staring into the eyes of Michelangelo’s David, you can do it all!

Just one more rail ride and you’ll arrive in a city filled with ancient ruins and some of the world’s most iconic works of art: Rome. Pay a visit to the Colosseum or experience the Sistine Chapel and its famous ceiling for yourself – the choice is yours!

PRICES FROM: $2,417*PER PERSON

*Vacation is round-trip, per person, based on 2 travelers departing from
Atlanta. Includes air, airport taxes, hotel, transfers, daily breakfast and more. Additional baggage charges may apply. Rates are available for 1 to 9 travelers. Sceptre

Rates are not guaranteed until booked.

Terms and Conditions apply.

Arrive at Venice Airport and enjoy an airport transfer straight to your Venice accommodation. The rest of your day is to enjoy at leisure; consider celebrating your first night in Venice by treating yourself to a glass of Prosecco Champagne, a specialty of the Veneto region.

Transfer to Venice hotel

You’ll be in one of these hotels, depending on availability

Hotel Principe

VENICE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

The services are the best among those proposed by hotels in Venice and are up to international standards: fax, internet point and wi-fi connection, laundry and ironing service, room service, restaurant and conference room and visitor information.

Hotel Ca’ dei Conti

VENICE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Overlooking a picturesque canal and just few minutes walk from St. Mark’s Square, Hotel Ca’ dei Conti is the perfect place to explore Venice.

Hotel Palazzo Stern

VENICE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Few Steps from Saint Mark’s Square and from Accademia, surrounded by the artistic beauties and by the peacefulness and quietness of an everyday Venice.

Hotel Amadeus-Venice

VENICE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Hotel Amadeus in Venice showcases the best of Venetian style with refreshing bursts of contemporary elements. The roomy accommodations are well-appointed with traditional design and are conveniently furnished to make your stay comfortable and convenient. Start your morning with the hotel’s sumptuous breakfast buffet and indulge in a variety of espresso and cappuccino drinks before you make your way into the city. Enjoy your dinners out in the city, or return to the hotel to experience the on-site Japanese restaurant.

Day 02 :
Venice

Let your guide lead you through the winding streets of Venice, visiting spectacular historic landmarks such as the Piazza San Marco, Basilica San Marco, Marco Polo’s house, the Mercerie, and much more.

Enjoy shopping down the main street, and have your camera ready for the architecture, art, and unique culture this city presents.

A Tip For Your Trip: Comfortable shoes are suggested for your walking tour today.

Walking Tour of Venice

Embark on your included Venice walking tour today. An experienced guide will escort you through the Most Serene Republic of Venice (“Serenissima Republic”), detailing the charm and history of this unique city. Your route will include Piazza San Marco, Basilica San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Santa Maria Formosa, Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo, Marco Polo’s house and the Mercerie, the vital connection between Rialto and San Marco, and the main street for shopping.

Day 03 :
Venice

No trip to Venice is complete without a ride on a gondola! Enjoy your included tour which provides the best way to visit the off the beaten track corners of Venice, where time seems to have stood still centuries ago.

On your last night in Venice, treat yourself to an iconic Italian dessert that has its roots in the Venuto region: tiramisu!

Discover Venice & Gondola Ride

Any trip to Venice must be accompanied by a ride on a gondola. This tour provides the best way to explore the real Venice, off the beaten track.

Wander through it’s labyrinthine streets, packed with history and artistic significance. Visit special sites like famous opera houses, the Rialto Bridge, Scala del Bovolo, and more!

Then, unwind on a 35-minute gondola ride on the Grand Canal and a few minor ones. The gentle movements on the water, combined with the beautiful architecture of the city that mingles with the business of everyday city life makes for an unforgettable atmosphere.

After a leisurely morning in the stunning city of Venice, make your way to the train station to embark on the journey to your next destination. Be sure to look out the window during your train ride, you’ll drive through the picturesque region of Tuscany before reaching Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance.

Train to Florence!

You’ll be in one of these hotels, depending on availability

Hotel Adler Cavalieri

FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Immerse yourself in the art and culture of Florence at the historic Hotel Adler Cavalieri. Enjoy the elegant Italian decor, wooden paneling, Tuscan marble, and frescoed ceilings of this former monastery that dates back to the 1300s.

The J & J Historic House Hotel Florence

FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Feel right at home at the rustic, charming J & J Historic House Hotel in Florence. A former 16th-century Florentine monastery, the hotel has since been transformed into an elegant 4-star hotel exuding tranquility and peace.

Grand Hotel Adriatico

FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Enjoy an elegant stay in Florence by spending your nights in the Grand Hotel Adriatico. Beautifully designed with hardwood floors and furniture, warm color schemes that make you feel at home, and an attentive staff to handle all questions and needs.

Roma Hotel, Florence

FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Immerse yourself in the artistic beauty of Florence at the elegant 4-star Hotel Roma. Step into its sophisticated lobby and admire rich colors and traditional decor.

Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli

FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

The Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli combines historic charm with modern amenities. This stately 16th century palace sits on the historic Via San Gallo and once belonged to the famous Ricasoli family. Florence’s best attractions are all within walking distance, from the Duomo to the Exposition Center (Palazzo Congressi and Fortezza da Basso) to the Accademia Gallery. Dine al fresco at one of the many Florentine trattorias and revel in the impressive architecture dotting the city.

This spacious hotel features 130 rooms equipped with free WI-FI, separate living areas and air conditioning, plus a free 120-car parking garage that can be easily reached from the city center. Savor the pleasing Tuscan air from the panoramic solarium and terrace while sipping a glass of Chianti. Before heading out for a day of sightseeing, enjoy the many works of art and sculpture from the hotel’s private collection.

Day 05 :
Florence

Discover the unparalleled beauty and history of the birthplace of the Renaissance during your included Florence Medieval & Renaissance walking tour!/p>

Best of Medieval & Renaissance Florence Walking Tour (half-day/morning)

Discover the unparalleled beauty and history of the birthplace of the Renaissance during your included Florence Medieval & Renaissance walking tour! This guided walking tour starts from the famous San Lorenzo Central market area, teeming with workshops and brightly decorative stalls, which surround the Medici Chapels and the Basilica of San Lorenzo.

You’ll then continue to Piazza del Duomo, where the triumphant bulk of the Cathedral greets your eyes with its dome by Brunelleschi, the bell-tower by Giotto, and the Baptistery of St. John with its Doors of Paradise.

Next, you’ll thread through the medieval quarters where Dante Alighieri and Beatrice Portinari lived, until you reach the road covering the old Roman eastern wall and look up at the Bargello Palace. The next stop is Piazza della Signoria, a great open-air sculpture museum, dominated by the imposing Palazzo della Signoria.

You’ll continue onward to the picturesque Straw Market to see the famous Porcellino (Little Wild Boar) Fountain. Next you’ll walk down the street that leads to the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge), to be dazzled by the gold and jewels in the little medieval shops, as you cross the River Arno.

After enjoying the lovely views up and down river, on the south bank, you’ll walk along Via Guicciardini until emerging into the sloping square that leads up to the enormous Pitti Palace with its six museums, where the tour ends.

Day 06 :
Florence

Florence is home to some of the world’s most moving masterpieces. Consider exploring the Accademia, where you can get up close and personal with Michelangelo’s David. Or you can pay a trip to the Uffizi Gallery, where you can gaze at the works of Botticelli, Michelangelo, da Vinci, and more.

After a long day of exploring, treat yourself to a serving of mouth-watering gelato – invented in the 16th century by a Florence native!

After one more train ride, you’ll arrive in The Eternal City, Rome! After nightfall, consider taking a stroll to the Trevi Fountain to see it illuminated in the evening.

Train to Rome!

You’ll be in one of these hotels, depending on availability

Hotel Marcella Royal

ROME, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

This 4-star boutique hotel offers guests an ideal location along with luxurious accommodations and services. Escape the bustling city life into one of the tranquil and relaxing guest rooms. There is a roof garden with incredible panoramic views of Rome and in the mornings there is a delicious buffet breakfast available here!

Empire Palace Hotel

ROME, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Unwind in elegance in the lovely Empire Palace Hotel. Feel like old royalty as you wander through the Venetian-styled building in the heart of Rome, which offer modern conveniences like an on-site gym, a classy bar and elegant restaurant.

Hotel Victoria

ROME, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Stay in style at the 4-star boutique Hotel Victoria, built in 1899. Located in the historical center of Rome, the famous Via Veneto, Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, and Piazza del Popolo are all within easy walking distance.

Hotel dei Mellini

ROME, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars

Escape to this luxurious retreat that will make you feel right at home in Rome. As soon as you walk through the doors of Hotel dei Mellini, you’ll enter a peaceful atmosphere filled with elegant decor, incredible natural light, and tons of classic artwork. Settle into your stylish, soundproof room where you’ll notice a Smart TV, air conditioning, and a gorgeous Carrara marble bathroom. Once you put your luggage down, get exploring! In just steps, find yourself at Vatican City, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain.

Back at the hotel, relax on the sunning deck or sip a cappuccino on the lush rooftop garden overlooking the historic city below. Keep up your active lifestyle and work all your stresses away in the on-site fitness center. When you work up an appetite, head to the elegant dining room and indulge in delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Sip on a glass of local wine as you dine over candlelight and plan your next day of adventure.

Day 08 :
Rome

Enjoy a leisurely morning before your included 3-hour Glory of Ancient Rome Tour. You’ll enjoy a complete tour of Ancient Rome’s major sights, like a guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, and the Ampitheater.

Walk on the original path along the Via Sacra and see the Temples of Vesta, Antonino and Faustina, the ancient Basilica Julia and Aemilia. Your tour will end in the Roman Forum area from which you can continue to explore on your own.

A Tip For Your Trip: Visitors wearing shorts, sleeveless tops or uncovered shoulders will not be permitted in the churches.

Rome Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour (48 hours) – all year

Visiting the capital of Italy has never been so easy and exciting! Get on CitySightseeing open top red bus and admire this wonderful city from another “higher” perspective! Onboard you will find an interesting commentary which will provide you with information about everything around you. Bus Line A gives you the opportunity to explore the main places of interest, like the Colosseum, the Vatican City and the Trevi Fountain.

The Glory of Ancient Rome (afternoon)

Take a complete tour of Ancient Rome’s major sights, with skip the line access to the Colosseum and Archaeological Area! You will start in the Archaeological Area, enjoy an expertly guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.

Discover where Rome was founded, be amazed by the incredible Colosseum that is an iconic symbol of Rome world-wide, and learn about the Ampitheater, created to entertain Roman citizens with dramatic Gladiator games.

Walk on the original path of ancient Rome along the Via Sacra and see the Temples of Vesta, Antonino and Faustina, the ancient Basilica Julia and Aemilia – and re-live the glorious past of the Roman Empire. Shorts, sleeveless tops and uncovered shoulders are not permitted in churches and at many historical sites

Day 09 :
Rome

Continue using your sightseeing bus pass today. Hop off at Vatican City and spend the day exploring the highlights of this Italian city-state. You’ll want to leave some time to explore the Vatican Museums; here you’ll find the Sistine Chapel and its famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo.

In accordance with your flight, enjoy an airport transfer from your hotel to Rome Airport (FCO).

Transfer to airport

Fly home!

What's Included

  • Round-trip airfare into Venice (VCE), out of Rome (FCO)
  • Round-trip airport transfers on arrival and departure
  • High-speed rail between cities
  • 3 nights in Venice at the Hotel Amadeus or similar
  • Venice Walking Tour
  • 3 nights in Florence at the Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli or similar
  • Florence Medieval & Renaissance Walking Tour
  • 3 nights in Rome at the Hotel Dei Mellini or similar
  • Rome Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour (48-hours)
  • Breakfast daily
  • Discover Venice Gondola Ride
  • Glory of Ancient Rome Tour

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Highlights of Italy