Italy Family Journey: Venice to Rome - 8 Days

Frequently asked questions

• What kind of tour is the "Italy Family Journey: Venice to Rome"?

  This is a National Geographic Family Journey designed for families to discover Italy's top highlights, from Venice through Tuscany to Rome, focusing on ancient ruins, artistic masterpieces, and immersive cultural experiences like art and cooking lessons.

• What are the main highlights of this trip?

  The main highlights include exploring Venice’s canals, creating your own Venetian mask, experiencing Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions, following in the footsteps of gladiators at the Roman Colosseum, and learning to make pasta from scratch in Florence.

• What are the age requirements for this family journey?

  This Family Journey is designed for groups traveling with children between the ages of 7 and 17. Your group must include a child to book, and anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The maximum age for participants is 100.

• What is the typical group size for this tour?

  The maximum group size is 20 travelers, with an average group size of 18.

• What type of accommodation can I expect?

  You will stay in hotels for all 7 nights. Accommodations in Europe can vary, often being older buildings in central locations with traditional character. Rooms may be smaller than expected, and not all hotels will have elevators or air-conditioning.

• What meals are included in the tour?

  The tour includes 7 breakfasts and 2 dinners.

• What activities are included in the tour price?

  Included activities are a welcome meeting, Venetian mask making for kids, a Florence pasta cooking class, a Gladiator School lesson in Rome, an arrival transfer, a guided Venice city tour and glass blowing demonstration, a visit to the Leonardo Da Vinci museum, a walking tour of Florence, a visit to the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo, and entrance to the Colosseum. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities is also covered.

• Are there any optional activities I can choose to do?

  Yes, optional activities include a Venice Food Tour and a Gondola Ride in Venice; visits to Medici Chapels, Il Duomo di Firenze, Uffizi Gallery, and Galleria dell'Accademia in Florence; an excursion to Pisa; and visits to the Roman Forum, St. Peter's Square, and the Vatican Museum in Rome. Please note some popular attractions may require advance ticket booking.

• Is travel insurance compulsory for this trip?

  Yes, travel insurance is compulsory. You must be covered for medical expenses, including emergency evacuation and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of USD200,000. It is strongly recommended to also cover personal liability, cancellation, curtailment, and loss of luggage/personal effects.

• Are international and local flights included in the tour price?

  International flights are generally not included. However, all required local flights within the itinerary are included unless otherwise noted.

• What modes of transportation will be used during the trip?

  The tour primarily uses trains, and also includes boats, taxis, metros, and walking. Be prepared to carry your own luggage on and off trains and up/down stairs, as elevators are rare in European train stations.

• Is there an extra cost for solo travelers?

  Group trips are designed for shared accommodation without a single supplement. Odd numbers of adult travelers in a family will be paired with another adult of the same sex. If you book the "My Own Room" option, you will receive a single room for all night stops, though these may be smaller in European hotels.

• Are there any health considerations or medical advice for this trip?

  It is your responsibility to consult with your travel doctor for up-to-date medical travel information and required inoculations well before departure. We recommend carrying a First Aid kit and hand sanitizers. Expedition Leaders are prohibited from administering any medication.

• What is the recommended dress code for local customs?

  When visiting churches and cathedrals in Italy, shoulders should be covered. Your Expedition Leader can provide more specific advice.

• Is tipping expected on this trip?

  Local tipping for local guides, drivers, and gratuity for included meals is covered. If you feel your two National Geographic Expedition Leaders did an outstanding job, a tip of €8-10 per person, per day, per Expedition Leader is a guideline. For non-included meals, a guideline is 5-10% of the bill.

• What should I know about currency and payment methods in Italy?

  Italy uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted for cash advances (ensure you have your 4-digit PIN), but it's best to have a combination of Euros, traveler's cheques, and cards. Do not rely solely on cards.

• How much emergency money should I bring?

  It is recommended to have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an emergency fund for unforeseen circumstances.

• What is Planeterra?

  Planeterra International Foundation is a non-profit organization that helps local communities earn income from tourism by developing and supporting community-owned businesses, empowering local people, and protecting the environment. 100% of donations go directly to Planeterra projects.

• What are the rules regarding illegal drugs on the trip?

  Illegal drugs will not be tolerated. Possession or use of drugs, or utilizing the services of paid sex workers, will result in expulsion from the trip without refund, as it contravenes local laws and the tour's philosophy of respect.