The quintessence of Italy is the combined stories of history, art, and nature that spread throughout the country. On this 11-day custom tailored tour you will be shown Italy’s magnificent spirit through the storied ruins, the Renaissance masterworks, romantic canals, and whispered flavors. From celebrated artists such as Leonardo da Vinci to coveted museums including the Uffizi Gallery, you will be taken into and beyond the cities of Rome, Florence, and Venice finding the allure of architecture,...
Customizable Itinerary
Day 1
Rome - Essential Rome
Welcome to Rome, a city that has seen history from the Etruscans to the Visigoths and the modern European Union. The city is expansive, filled with ruins and luxuries; you can see the remnants of Roman grandeur along the cobblestone streets. You will be met at the airport and taken to your luxurious accommodation situated within the city center. Venture out onto a guided walk through the ancient buildings to get acquainted with the “Eternal City.” The city is boisterous with joviality. Vespas buzz as they weave through the wide streets. The buildings help guide you through the maze-like walkways to an open square where you find the large stone façade of the Pantheon.
The imposing building was built during the reign of Hadrian around the second century to replace the once burnt down Pantheon commissioned by Emperor Augustus. The portico boasts magnificent Corinthian columns made of granite, while the structure itself continues to have the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world. When you enter you find an interior that was once dedicated to the many gods of pagan Rome. Look up and find a series of intersecting arches that help maintain the weight of the structure while circles and squares create a decorative theme throughout. Within the wonder of the Pantheon you have found a quintessential part of the city.
What's Included:
Day 2
Rome - Charming Past
Day 3
Rome - The Quintessential Flavors of Rome
Day 4
Rome - Southern Pearls
Day 5
Perugia - In and Around Piety
Day 6
Florence - The Tuscan Marvels
Day 7
Florence - Essential Secretes Revealed
Day 8
Venice - Northern Capitals
Day 9
Venice - Beside the Storied Canals
Day 10
Rome - Roman Returns
Day 11
Rome - The Essence Continues
Trip Highlights
- Traverse the canals of Venice on a gondola ride through the city
- Visit the collection of Renaissance masterworks at the Uffizi Gallery
- Witness the grandeur of Michelangelo’s David
- Sample the tremendous flavor of Sagrantino wine
- Follow in the footsteps of the revered St. Francis of Assisi in his home town
- Discover the majesty hidden within the ash of Pompeii
- Tour through the antiquity of Rome including the majesty of the Vatican Museum home to the Sistine Chapel
- Wander through a secret Medici passageway in the Uffizi, a unique tour not offered to the general public
Detailed Description
The essence of Italy shines through the scenery, whether landscapes or churches, skylines or museums, on this 11-day tour through Renaissance cities and rolling hills. Nearly every step you take in Rome will be surrounded by ancient ruins and perseverant architecture while Florence’s amazing collection of Renaissance artistry will captivate you. From Pompeii’s history frozen in ash to Venice’s famous canals that create labyrinthine streets, you will find the diversity of the cities and countryside shaping what the world calls the essence of Italy.
Your journey through Italy begins with your arrival in Rome. The “Eternal City” takes on a life of its own with energetic locals, the quiet Tiber River, and the endless ruins that date back millennia. Tour through the city exploring the iconic images that spring to life, from the Colosseum to the Roman Forum, even Saint Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museum. The following day you will explore the delectable local markets with a guide who will soon lead you into cuisine ecstasy, cooking and tasting Roman delights.
Journey Southbound to Naples and find yourself at the nearby historical marvel of Pompeii. The large ancient city continues to mesmerize visitors, from its expansive streets to its exceptional preservation. Reach the trundling hills of Umbria and find yourself traversing the artisan town of Deruta, and the medieval cities of Montefalco, and Assisi, located within the same region but worlds apart in their cultural differences.
Once in Florence you will find the Tuscan hills surrounding the city are filled with Renaissance pomp. Walking through the streets to view the Duomo and visiting the immense collection of masterworks, from Michelangelo’s David to Botticelli, will inspire you. Stop in Ravenna to see the Byzantine churches that continue to add elegance to the forested lands surrounding the city. Once in Venice you will find the celebrated skyline and treasured Saint Mark’s Square. The Doge’s Palace is a pillar of Venetian architecture standing proudly against the watery border. You will find the hidden niches located along the maze-like streets that take you to Chiesa dei Frari before returning to Rome.
For additional options for luxury tours to Europe, you may want to browse the travel reviews of European vacations.
Starting Price
$3,020 per person (excluding international flights)
What's Included
- Accommodations
- In-country transportation
- Some or all activities and tours
- Expert trip planning
- 24x7 support during your trip
Your final trip cost will vary based on your selected accommodations, activities, meals, and other trip elements that you opt to include.
Reviews of Zicasso's Referral Service
4.89 stars based on 4167 reviews.
Reviewed By Kristin D.
Reviewed By Philip V.
Reviewed By Steven B.
Reviewed By Jean Y.
Reviewed By christine G.
Reviewed By Sue H.