Best of Northern Italy: Florence to Venice - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  Explore Florence's cobblestone streets and world-class art galleries, Explore the stunning landscapes and villages of Cinque Terre on foot and by train, Explore the elegant countryside of Lake Como by boat, Wander along the canals and bridges of Venice, Indulge in the Italian gastronomy and local wines as you move throughout the regions.

• What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?

  On this trip you can expect to stay in small family-run hotels or pensions (with the exception of the start and finish hotels, which are often larger city hotels), which will vary a little in standard and facilities: some may not have elevators, air-conditioning or English-speaking staff, but most importantly all are locally-run, with some traditional character, and in excellent central locations to give you maximum time for exploring the sights. You can expect to find clean, safe, simple accommodation in convenient locations. Note that most accommodation in Europe does not have air conditioning units in rooms. Air conditioning is not routinely installed in European homes and workplaces. However, nearly all hotels will provide a standing or desk fan for your room on hot nights. If you do not already have one in your room, please ask your CEO to organize one for you with reception. Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.

• What meals are included in the tour price?

  Seven breakfasts are included. Eating is a big part of traveling. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip.

• What are the modes of transportation on this trip?

  Intercity transport on this trip will mostly be by train and occasionally by local bus. The bus and train systems in Italy are generally good, with seat reservations and toilet/snack facilities on longer journeys. Keeping to schedules is notoriously not one of the Italian transport system's specialties, so queue up some music, a good book and some Italian phrases, and kick-back and enjoy the views with the locals. You MUST be comfortable carrying your own luggage as there will be a lot of up and down stairs on this trip due to the nature of station layouts in Italy (very few are equipped with escalators or elevators). Between public transport and hotels you may be required to carry your luggage short distances (up to 15mins walk), in larger cities you may travel by metro or city bus, and occasionally the group will take taxis to and from hotels. We highly recommend travelling with a backpack or duffel bag over any wheeled luggage options.

• Who will be leading the group on this tour?

  A CEO (Chief Experience Officer) will accompany you throughout the trip. The CEO's aim is to take the hassle out of your travels and help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. In Europe, all guiding is based around local guides who are licensed to work only in a particular city. As such, our leaders are able to provide orientation walks which will show you the layout of each town and city, as well as the location of local services such as post offices and laundromats, but are unable to legally share historical facts and figures in public places.

• What is the maximum group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 16, with an average of 12 travellers.

• What is the minimum age to join this trip?

  You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers, or can I share accommodation?

  We believe single travellers should not have to pay more to travel, so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. If you have booked the "My Own Room" option, you will receive your own single room for all night stops, though please be aware that single room accommodations in European hotels are often smaller and may not be to the same service level as double-occupancy rooms.

• Is travel insurance required for this trip?

  Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your CEO, who will take note of your insurance details. All clients must have medical coverage and a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance, we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt or credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

• How much spending money do I need for my trip?

  Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

• What currency is used and what should I know about money exchange and credit cards?

  Italy is in the Eurozone and the unit of the currency is the Euro. Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances, but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Visa cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Italy – check with your bank. You should be aware when purchasing products or services on a credit card that a fee usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Euros, traveller’s cheques and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds. As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often, we ask that you refer to www.xe.com for daily exchange rates.

• Is tipping customary in Europe, and what are the guidelines?

  While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers. Tipping is an expected – though not compulsory – component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture. At the end of each trip, if you felt your CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €30-€40 per person, per week can be used as a guideline.

• How should I dress to respect local customs, especially when visiting religious sites?

  In Italy, shoulders should be covered while visiting churches and cathedrals. Ask your CEO for more specific advice.

• What optional activities are available on this tour and what are their costs?

  Florence: Florence Food Tour. Como: Como Cathedral (Free). Venice: Venice Food Tour, Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Visit (17EUR per person), Gondola Ride (80EUR per group), Campanile San Marco Lookout (8EUR per person), Scuola Grande di San Rocco (10EUR per person), Guggenheim Museum Visit (15EUR per person), Gallerie dell'Accademia (12EUR per person). Piazza San Marco: Saint Mark's Square and Basilica Visit (Free). Murano: Murano and Burano Islands Visit (20EUR per person). During high season (May-October) we highly recommend booking reservations for any popular optional activities/museum tickets etc. in advance to avoid encountering sold-out activities on the ground while on tour. Special meal requirements cannot be accommodated on the optional Venice Food Tour.

• Should I reserve tickets for popular attractions in advance?

  Please note that if you wish to visit popular museums such as the Vatican Museums (Sistine Chapel) and Villa Borghese in Rome, or the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries in Florence, we strongly advise reserving tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially during the high season from May-September, where this can take several hours). Tickets can be reserved online through sites like https://www.weekendinitaly.com/en/rome and https://www.weekendinitaly.com/en/florence. Please refer to your Full itinerary to ensure you reserve tickets for the correct dates you will be in Rome and Florence. There may be the possibility of arranging tickets on arrival on Day 1, with the help of your CEO, but availability cannot be guaranteed at such short notice.

• Are there any health considerations I should know before travelling?

  Inoculations may be required for the country visited. It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information well before departure. We recommend that you carry a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers / antibacterial wipes as well as any personal medical requirements. Please be aware that quite often we are in remote areas and away from medical facilities, and for legal reasons our leaders are prohibited from administering any type of drug including headache tablets, antibiotics, etc. When selecting your trip, please carefully read the brochure and itinerary and assess your ability to cope with our style of travel. The tour operator reserves the right to exclude any traveller from all or part of a trip without refund if, in the reasonable opinion of our CEO, they are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group.

• What are the safety and security considerations for this trip?

  Always keep an eye on your belongings, especially in major cities, bus and train terminals. Many national governments provide regularly updated advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend checking your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. While the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions. Protests and demonstrations have the potential to turn violent with no warning; avoid such areas immediately. Water-based activities have an element of danger; we recommend participating only when accompanied by a guide(s). Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Your CEO has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

• What should LGBTQ+ travelers know about safety and travel considerations on this trip?

  The safety and well-being of all of our travelers is a priority at the tour operator and that includes our travelers who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community. We recognize that there are specific concerns and questions you may have about your adventure in terms of safety and security. We encourage you to visit our LGBTQ+ page for useful resources to ensure you feel safe and comfortable throughout the duration of your trip. The Equaldex tool linked on this page can be of particular help when deciding where you may want to visit next.

• Are there any specific rules of conduct or restrictions on this trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

• What should I do if I experience problems upon arrival?

  We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, as soon as possible please contact your starting point hotel, requesting that you speak to or leave a message for your CEO. If you are unable to get in touch with your leader, please refer to our emergency contact details.

• Who should I contact in case of an emergency during the tour?

  Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call our Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible. EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS: Office London, United Kingdom During Office hours (Weekdays, 9am-5:30pm Local Time) +44 20 7243 9870. For absolute emergencies after office hours please contact: +441858378000. If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100. Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000. Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000. Calls from Australia: 1300 796 618. Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307. Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999. Hours of operation by region can be found here.

• What are the visa and entry requirements for Italy, including the Venice Access Fee?

  All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. Travelling in Europe has been simplified with the introduction of the Schengen visa. As a visitor to the Schengen area (Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Portugal, Finland, Italy, Spain, France, Luxembourg, Sweden, Czech Republic, Hungary, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland) you will enjoy the many advantages of this unified visa system. Generally speaking with a Schengen visa, you may enter one Schengen country and travel freely throughout the Schengen region during the validity of your visa. There are limited border controls at Schengen borders, if any at all. Please note that the UK and Ireland are NOT part of the Schengen agreement. A Schengen visa is applied for at the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country in which you will be spending the most nights on your trip to the Schengen space. If you are only visiting one country on your trip then you apply for your visa at the Consulate of this Schengen country. VENICE ACCESS FEE: On April 25th 2024, Venice introduced a new tourist entry requirement. Travellers who are only visiting Venice for the day are charged a tourist fee imposed by the city. We kindly request that you visit the Venice Access Fee Homepage to complete the form prior to travel. Completing this form stating you are staying overnight will exempt you from this fee. Please check the specific dates on the link above - if your departure is affected, please follow the steps below: If your tour STARTS in Venice (this includes arriving into Venice prior to tour start date) you will need to complete this form prior to arrival. If your tour TRAVELS THROUGH Venice, your CEO will assist with this requirement on tour. If your tour FINISHES in Venice (this includes staying in Venice after the tour finish date), your CEO will assist with this requirement on tour. As of 2025, various European countries are introducing ETIAS travel authorisation as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals. We highly recommend you checking in advance how your nationality and country/s you are visiting may be affected. Further details can be found here. Last updated: January 27th 2025.

• Are laundry facilities available during the tour?

  Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge or ask your CEO where the closest laundromat is. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

• What is Planeterra and how does the tour operator support local communities?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization committed to turning travel into impact by helping local communities earn an income from tourism. Planeterra connects underserved local communities to the benefits of tourism by developing and supporting small community-owned businesses. These businesses support Indigenous people, empower women, grant youth access to employment opportunities, and protect the environment. Planeterra also works to ensure these businesses have a thriving customer base by integrating their projects into the tour operator’ itineraries globally. The tour operator is Planeterra’s largest corporate donor, covering all operating costs, so 100% of your donation will bring opportunity to people in need. The tour operator Dollar-a-day Program - Make Every Day Count - Turn your travel into impact with Planeterra Foundation. Make every day count by donating $1/day for the length of your trip, and join us in empowering the communities you will visit when you travel. 100% of your donation goes directly to Planeterra projects.

• Does the tour operator have an email newsletter I can subscribe to?

  Our adventure travel e-newsletter is full of travel news, trip information, interesting stories and contests. To avoid missing out on special offers and updates from the tour operator, subscribe at www.gadventures.com/newsletters/. Stay current on how our company invests in our global community through our foundation – Planeterra. Sign up for Planeterra's monthly news to learn more about how to give back and support the people and places we love to visit.