Italian Escape 2024 - Small-Group Tour

Upon your arrival in Rome, you will be greeted by your private driver who will transfer you to your hotel. In the early afternoon, meet with your Tour Host at the hotel. Here, you'll receive more information about your tour and have the opportunity to get to know your fellow travelers.

Later, embark on a delightful walking tour of the Baroque Town, exploring iconic sites such as Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Piazza di Spagna, the Italian Parliament, and the enchanting narrow streets of ancient Rome. To conclude the day, we'll take a leisurely stroll to a local restaurant where you'll savor a delectable welcome dinner. Your night will be spent in Rome, ensuring a restful start to your adventure.

Following a delicious breakfast, you'll be chauffeured from your hotel to the Vatican Museum for a guided tour. Thanks to your skip-the-line tickets, access will be a breeze. Your visit promises to be truly memorable, as our expert guides have crafted a route that encompasses all the major highlights, along with a few delightful surprises. Conclude your visit with the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. Afterward, exit onto St. Peter’s Square to savor a breathtaking view of the grand Cathedral.

Returning to your hotel, take some time to unwind after an engaging morning.

In the early evening, delve into the art of pasta-making during a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef. After a few delightful sips of Prosecco and a taste of Roman specialties, receive a crash course in crafting authentic pasta that you can replicate at home. Brush off any residual flour from your fingertips and cleanse your palate with the perfect wine as you sit down with your fellow classmates to relish your culinary creations.

Conclude the evening with a return transfer to your hotel for a restful overnight stay in Rome.

Today is a day for you to enjoy at your own pace. This tour has been thoughtfully crafted to provide you with the finest highlights of each city, along with ample free time for you to tailor your travel experience to your preferences and unwind.

We highly recommend immersing yourself in the grandeur of Imperial Rome by exploring the Colosseum and Forum. Alternatively, you might want to indulge in one of Europe's most captivating art collections at Palazzo Borghese, or venture to the nearby Tivoli to marvel at the astounding Villa Hadriana, commissioned by Emperor Hadrian, and the enchanting Villa d’Este, a true masterpiece. The choice is yours!

Enjoy a private transfer to your hotel in Florence, with a scenic route passing through the picturesque towns of Montepulciano and Montalcino.

In Montepulciano, you'll meet your guide for an enriching walking tour of the town. Montepulciano is a charming town located in the Tuscany region of Italy. It is renowned for its stunning medieval architecture, picturesque landscapes, and, of course, its exquisite wines, including the famous Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Following that, venture to Montalcino for a delightful wine-tasting experience paired with a delectable lunch. You'll reach Florence in the late evening, where you'll spend the night.

Embark on your Florence adventure by discovering the city's hidden gems and most picturesque corners. Begin at the vibrant San Lorenzo Market, where you can witness the bounty of the Tuscan countryside produce. It's a delightful opportunity to savor a variety of local cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and breads. If you're still feeling peckish, there's some free time for lunch.

Later in the afternoon, convene with your guide at the hotel and prepare to delve into the heart of Florence's rich history. You'll explore iconic sites like Piazza della Signoria, pass by the impressive Palazzo Vecchio, admire the Duomo with Giotto's bell tower (from the exterior), and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio.

Our journey through Florence culminates with a visit to the Accademia, where you'll have the privilege of beholding Michelangelo's masterpiece, the statue of David.

Later in the afternoon, you have the option to join a tour of Siena and San Gimignano, topped off with a memorable dinner at a boutique winery.

Today, you have the freedom to plan as you please. Consider joining a small group tour to Cinque Terre for a truly special experience. You'll have the chance to explore the stunning villages of Cinque Terre, wandering through lush panoramic vineyards overlooking the sea, and indulging in a delightful seafood lunch paired with local Cinque Terre wine. Cap off the day with a memorable boat excursion, capturing the most breathtaking views of Cinque Terre from the sea. It promises to be an unforgettable adventure.

Following a satisfying breakfast, you'll be chauffeured to the Florence train station, where you'll board a high-speed train bound for Venice. As you journey to Venice, you'll have the opportunity to savor the picturesque scenery along the way. Venice, a city devoid of roads and cars, relies solely on boats and canals for transportation. Spread across multiple small islands, the city is connected by a network of hundreds of picturesque bridges.

Upon your mid-morning arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel. You'll have some free time to explore Venice at your own pace, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the city's captivating atmosphere and distinctive beauty.

Embark on your day with an early morning rendezvous near the iconic Rialto Bridge. Here, you'll uncover the intriguing tale of how Venice emerged from the lagoon's depths, and come to understand how its maritime origins have left an indelible mark on its history and culture.

Begin your leisurely stroll at the vibrant Rialto Fish Market, where both seasoned chefs and home cooks alike vie for the freshest catch of the day. Wandering through the charming backstreets of Venice, you'll encounter serene piazzas and picturesque bridges, occasionally pausing at landmarks such as Marco Polo's childhood abode.

Later, delight in a 30-minute gondola ride that will carry you through bustling waterways and tranquil residential canals.

Following a well-deserved break for lunch, reconvene at St. Mark's Square. Enter the hallowed halls of St. Mark's Basilica with pre-reserved, skip-the-line tickets. Finally, step into the historic Doge's Palace, once the epicenter of political power for an empire spanning the Mediterranean and Asia. Within these walls, the Doge, or Duke of Venice, governed an empire of boundless wealth but minimal territorial expanse.

As the day concludes, make your way back to your hotel at your own pace.

In the evening, relish a heartwarming farewell dinner at a charming restaurant, savoring the last moments of your Venetian sojourn.

On the day of your departure, you will independently make your way from the hotel to the airport or train station. Safe travels! (optional private transfer is available).