Experience the crown jewels of Italy during this eleven day Grand Tour of Italy package: Rome, Florence, and Venice. Historical Rome is best seen via a guided tour of the historical center that includes the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon before stopping at St. Peter's Basilica to experience the art of Michelangelo. Then take a train ride to gorgeous Florence to experience amazing masterpieces such as Michelangelo's sculpture, David, in the Galleria dell'Accadmia. Your last stop will be in the floating city of Venice to explore the cozy streets, romantic gondola rides, stunning architecture and local craftsmanship. If this is your first time traveling to Italy, this carefully planned itinerary will ensure that you do not miss any of the country's famous highlights.
Day 01: OUT-BOUND FLIGHT
Board your overnight flight to Italy.
Day 02: ROME
Upon your arrival at Rome Fiumicino Airport, meet with your driver and transfer to your hotel in the city center of Rome where you will check in. The rest of your day will be at leisure to relax and get acquainted with this ancient city.
Day 03 - ROME
After a good and healthy breakfast, the day begins with a half day guided city tour of the historical city center so that you can admire the famous Trevi Fountain, the historic Pantheon and beautiful Navona Square. Pass alongside Castel SantAngelo before arriving at St. Peter's Basilica where you will admire one of Michelangelo's most magnificent works of art, "La Piet" and the interior of St. Peter's Basilica. Rest of the day at leisure to shop and enjoy more sightseeing.
Day 04: ROME
Today, after breakfast you will have plenty of time to sight-see, shop, visit museums or just relax. Here are just a few suggestions to keep you busy: visit the impressive Colosseum and Roman Forum, walk down the Spanish Steps and, for fashion lovers, stroll down Via Condotti, the most fashionable and elegant street facing the Spanish Steps, or find a good and unique deal in one of the many outdoor markets. For art enthusiasts, you can discover the immense treasures of the Vatican Museums and enjoy a breathtaking visit of the Sistine Chapel (Please note: advance reservations to visit the Colosseum and Roman Forum as well as the Vatican Museums are strongly encouraged and can be arranged separately upon request).
Day 05: FLORENCE
Travel by high speed train from Rome to Florence and upon arrival check into your next hotel. Afterwards, you may stroll around the beautiful historic city center of Florence taking in the atmosphere of this timeless city.
Day 06: FLORENCE
After breakfast, you will enjoy a half day city tour. The first stop is Piazzale Michelangelo, where you will admire wonderful panoramas of Florence. Then proceed by coach to the historical city center where you will have exterior visits of the Duomo complex, Giottos bell tower and the Baptistery with its impressive bronze doors called Porta del Paradiso (Gate of Paradise). A short walk through the historic streets of the heart of Florence brings you to the renowned Galleria dellAccademia where you will admire the famous David sculpture by Michelangelo and other works by the great artist, such as a few unfinished sculptures, as well as works by other Florentine artists. After visiting the museum, you will have time at leisure to continue exploring Florence on your own.
Day 07: FLORENCE
Take advantage of your last day in Florence to shop for quality leather in Florence's leather district or gold as you stroll along the Ponte Vecchio, which famous all around the world for its jewelry shops. Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to visit one of the most important art museums in the world: the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by renowned renaissance artists such as Botticelli, Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, and much more.
Day 08: VENICE
After checking out of your hotel, you will travel by high speed train from Florence to Venice. Check into your new hotel located on Venice Island and then enjoy a half day guided walking tour of Venice's city center. Strolling through the characteristic narrow streets (called "calle"), the tour takes you into the historical center of the city and its magnificent monuments: St. Marks Square, St. Marks Basilica, the Doge's Palace, the Prisons and the Bridge of Sighs. Rest of the day at leisure to shop and enjoy a meal of fresh seafood.
Day 09: VENICE
After breakfast, you may take an optional excursion to Murano Island and visit a Glass workshop learning how the Local Artisans create a piece of glass art, or visit picturesque Burano Island renowned for its lace making. You could also discover some of Venice's secrets on your own by visiting the Fine Art Academy, the Guggenheim Museum, the old markets or enjoying a walk across the Rialto Bridge. For those of travelers looking to experience an authentic gondola ride, we recommend enjoying one at sunset; there is something magical about floating down the Venice Canals as the sun sets over the water and the lights of the city begin to turn on.
Day 10: VENICE
After breakfast at your hotel, spend your last day in Italy taking in a few more sights, shopping at local boutiques or snapping photos of the stunning canals and the unique landscape of this romantic city. We recommend wandering around Venice's tiny streets going in the direction that your heart takes you. Don't worry about getting lost, hidden treasures can be found all over this mysterious and enchanting city.
Day 11: RETURN FLIGHT
In the morning, you will transfer to Venice airport for your return flight home. Arrivederci!
PACKAGE START AT $2056.00 INCLUDES:
PACKAGE INCLUDES:
-Round trip flights in economy class with in-flight meals, drinks, and entertainment (*)
-3 nights accommodation in a premium 3 star Hotel (**) in Rome
-3 nights accommodation in a premium 3 star Hotel (**) in Florence
-3 nights accommodation in a premium 3 star Hotel (**) in Venice
-9 Daily Italian Buffet Breakfasts
-4 Half day guided city tour Ground transfer from/to Airport
-2nd Class train ticket from Rome to Florence and from Florence to Venice
-Vat Taxes and Service Charges (in Italy) included
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:
U.S. & Foreign Departure Taxes and Surcharges Fee(s) assessed by the Airlines.
Hospitality city tax which varies by city and hotel category. If applicable it has to be paid locally to the hotel.
All that is not listed under PACKAGE INCLUDES.
(*) Rate based on NYC departure gates. Alternative U.S. departure cities available upon request at 1-866-GO ITALY or Email Trips2italy .
(**) Rate based on two adult persons sharing a double or twin bedded room with private bathroom. Single rooms are available at an additional supplement. Childrens, triple room rates and alternative accommodation arrangements are available upon request. (Additional and different charges may apply).
For additional information about Rome, Florence, Venice Other hotels and destinations are available. Please dont hesitate to ask our Trips 2 Italy travel assistants.
