LUXURY TAILOR MADE TRAVEL

Tailor-Made Italy: The Vatican to Venice

10 days, 5-star from $16,495

Few countries enjoy as many alluring qualities as Italy, and as journey north from historically-significant Rome through the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany to romantic Venice, you will discover not only the most famous artworks and landmarks in history but also local traditions and flair that this part of the country is known for. Embark on a memorable 10-day curated trip highlighting the best Italian art, history, wine, and food in Lazio, Tuscany, and Veneto!

Italy at a Glance

For the most part, Italy is welcoming towards the LGBT community. You can enjoy a hassle-free vacation and express yourself rather freely yet respectfully if you visit the most popular destinations and surrounding areas. While generally safe, you’ll want to stay alert around the most popular tourist destinations, as pickpocketing is still quite common in Italy. Rome, Florence, and Venice are all known for their rich history, famous landmarks, vibrant local culture, and delectable cuisine. The best time to visit is between March and October, but you may want to avoid peak summer as the weather can get quite scorching.

Photo: Gloria Cretu

Photo: Canmandawe

10-day travel itinerary

DAY 1

Arrive in Rome

Receive a warm welcome in the capital city Rome and transfer to your accommodation.

DAY 2

Rome | Early Entry to The Vatican

Vatican City with no queueing? Start your morning with an early access entry and a light breakfast that will prepare you to explore some of the most iconic sites in art history. You and a handful of other guests will admire the legendary Sistine Chapel and its frescoed ceiling before moving on to the largest church in the world, St. Peter’s Basilica, to admire the most pristine examples of Renaissance and Baroque architecture and art.

DAY 3

Rome | Ancient Empire

Dive deep into Rome’s imperial history with the help of an experienced guide, who will take you to Capitoline Hill, a place of religious and political significance. It’s impossible not to appreciate the beautiful frescoes and impressive sculptures at Palazzo dei Conservatori and Palazzo Nuovo, so prepare to be awestruck. Continue to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill to marvel at building remains from a time gone by. Complete the day by visiting the historically significant Colesseum and the Arch of Constantine.

DAY 4

Orvieto | Wine Tasting In Tuscany

Today you’re heading to Florence, and this journey really is as wonderful as the destination itself. You will first stop at Orvieto, famous for Signorelli’s Cycle of the Apocalypse at the San Brizio Chapel. Continue through the picture-perfect Tuscan landscape, adorned with rolling hills and cypress trees, and stop at a local wine estate for an immersive wine-tasting experience.

DAY 5

Florence | Renaissance Restorations

Exploring Florence wouldn’t be complete without visiting the city’s renowned Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and seeing Michelangelo’s David at the Galleria dell'Accademia. Take a peek inside the delicate world of art restoration at Basilica of Santissima Annunziata and its Giambologna Chapel, where you will witness firsthand how Renaissance art is brought back to life by a team of skilled professionals.

DAY 6

Chianti | Tastings at a Medieval Abbey

Today indulge in Tuscany’s rich wine and food culture. Tuscany’s Chianti region invites you to first visit the Badia a Passignano Benedictine abbey and its wine cellars before enjoying an authentic Tuscan experience at the on-site Michelin-starred restaurant – tips and tricks on wine decanting and food pairing are guaranteed! Before returning to Florence, make a stop at the charming hilltop town of Montefioralle or the medieval market town of Greve.

DAY 7

Florence & Venice | Gallery of The Medici

Walking tours are a great way to explore any city, and today’s walking tour of Florence is no exception. Visit the famed Uffizi Gallery to see some of the most celebrated art in history by Botticelli, da Vinci, Raphael, and Caravaggio. Then explore the buzzing Mercato Centrale and sample some of the best street foods in Tuscany. In the afternoon, board a high-speed train to Venice, where a relaxing cruise of the Grand Canal awaits you before you finish the day at your hotel.

DAY 8

Venice | Murano Glass, Burano Lace, and St. Mark’s Basilica

Step onto a private motorboat for a quick trip across the Venetian Lagoon to the island of Murano, renowned for its glassware and witness the process of glassblowing. Then journey on to Burano, the island known for its intricate handmade lace. In the afternoon, a walking tour of Venice takes you to St. Mark’s Basilica, La Fenice Theatre, and the Accademia Bridge, which offers fantastic views of the Grand Canal.

DAY 9

Venice | Sampling Local Flavors

Start your day admiring the Basilica di Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari and the works of Bellini and Titian. Spend the rest of the day immersing yourself into Venetian flavours and local flair in the market district before heading on to one of the bacari or wine bars serving ombra and cicchetti – a small glass of wine with a pairing of traditional snacks. On your last evening in Venice, embark on a romantic gondola ride through the picture-perfect Grand Canal.

DAY 10

Depart Venice

Enjoy a coffee and breakfast before you leave for Venice airport to complete your 10-day trip to Italy.

Additional recommended experiences

Enhance your journey and elevate your experience by choosing from a selection of optional activities available at an additional cost. For history buffs, consider exploring the underground layers of Rome, including the Church of San Clemente and the catacombs of San Sebastian. Foodies may want to join a private cooking class in a Tuscan family home, where you'll learn how to prepare classic dishes and enjoy the lunch you made. Or, get creative with a visit to a Venetian mask-making studio. Learn about the history and significance of this art form from experienced artisans, and create your own mask, whether it be inspired by Carnival, theatre, modern times, or everyday Venetian life.

Let Us Book Your Luxury Italy Vacation

Get in touch if you would like us to arrange your Italy trip. Did you have a different Italy itinerary in mind? No problem. We tailor every trip to your individual travel style and budget so just let us know what you’re looking for.