Eternal Italy Rome to Venice Odyssey - 9 Days

Welcome to Rome! Upon your arrival, we'll arrange your transfer to the hotel, allowing you some time to unwind and explore at your leisure. This afternoon, check the hotel reception for details about the commencement of your tour. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

We begin our day in Rome with a captivating guided exploration of the Eternal City. Over three hours, we'll combine an informative walking tour around the historic Imperial Rome with a scenic bus journey, uncovering the treasures of one of the world's most influential cities. Our itinerary includes visits to the renowned Arch of Constantine, a glimpse at the majestic exterior of the Colosseum, and a walk through the Imperial Forums. We'll also see the expansive Circus Maximus, the well-preserved Baths of Caracalla, the beautiful Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the striking Pyramid of Cestius, and the iconic Castel Sant'Angelo.

Our morning tour concludes at Vatican City around 11:00 a.m., where you're invited to consider an optional guided visit to explore the Vatican Museums and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. As the day winds down, we’ll transport you to the vibrant Trastevere neighbourhood, famed for its delightful restaurants and spirited atmosphere. You'll have ample time to savour the local cuisine and ambiance before we return to the hotel at approximately 8:30 p.m.

On the third day, you have the freedom to create your own adventure in Rome. Should you wish to further enrich your experience, there is an optional excursion available. From April to October, you can choose to visit the picturesque island of Capri, renowned for its stunning landscapes and charming atmosphere. During the months from November to March, you may discover the historic cities of Naples and Pompeii, exploring their rich cultural heritage and historical treasures. Enjoy the day at your own pace, embracing the opportunity to indulge in these optional excursions if you desire.

We depart from Rome today, heading north through stunning landscapes en route to Florence. Our first stop in Florence is the Michelangelo Viewpoint, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. We then stroll to the historic city centre, where you’ll have some free time for lunch. Afterwards, we embark on a guided walking tour of Florence, the acclaimed birthplace of the Renaissance. Discover the artistic legacy of greats like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli and Raphael as we visit the city's treasures. Highlights include the magnificent Gothic Duomo, the ancient Ponte Vecchio famous for its artisan goldsmith shops, and Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city with its medieval town hall. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring Florence.

We depart Florence early, setting course for northern Italy, as we traverse the picturesque Apennine Mountains. Our destination is the enchanting city of Venice. Upon arrival, we'll embark on a boat ride to the heart of the city, where a walking tour awaits us in the San Marco district. Here, you can marvel at the stunning Basilica of San Marco and the towering Campanile. Our exploration continues with a visit to a Murano Glass Factory, where you'll witness the exceptional skill and artistry of traditional glass-making. Our accommodation for the night will be in the Mestre area, offering convenient access to the wonders of Venice.

Today offers a leisurely opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of Venice. With a day free from scheduled activities, you can choose how best to explore this iconic city at your own pace. Wander through the winding canals, stroll across the many picturesque bridges, and perhaps discover hidden gems nestled within its charming streets. Whether you wish to visit renowned attractions like the Rialto Bridge or simply enjoy a leisurely coffee at a café in a quiet piazza, the day is entirely yours to savour Venice's timeless beauty.

Today, we begin our journey by heading towards Padua, an important pilgrimage site known for the awe-inspiring Basilica of Saint Anthony. After exploring this esteemed landmark, we continue to the picturesque Adriatic Coast, where we visit San Marino. This charming independent country sits majestically atop a fortified mountain and offers a delightful break for lunch. In the afternoon, we journey through the scenic Apennines, enjoying the stunning mountain views as we make our way to the town of Gubbio. Known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, Gubbio is home to the striking Palace of Consuls and a 12th-century cathedral. Our day concludes as we reach the captivating city of Perugia, where you'll have the opportunity to explore at your leisure.

Today we start with a panoramic tour of Perugia, a charming historic city famously known as the city of chocolate. Accompanied by a local guide, we’ll navigate the hilly terrain via unique moving walkways that traverse a rocky outcrop. During our exploration, we’ll uncover the enchanting medieval underground city featuring its stone-paved streets and quaint squares. Once we’ve soaked in the sights of Perugia, we’ll continue our journey back to Rome, where we’ll arrive in the afternoon.

Following breakfast, our incredible journey draws to a close, leaving you with cherished memories of the experiences shared and places visited.