Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy with our 7-day Art & History in Italy tour, showcasing the timeless beauty and cultural heritage of Rome, Florence, and Venice. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of history, art, and culinary delights as you explore ancient landmarks, iconic artwork, and charming local traditions. From the grandeur of Rome’s architectural wonders to the artistic legacy of Florence and the romantic allure of Venice’s winding canals.
Rome 2 nights | Florence 2 nights | Venice 2 nights
Art & History in Italy
Day 1: UK, Rome
Arrive in Rome and transfer to the hotel by private car. Check in and enjoy the day exploring at leisure. Evening welcome dinner with traditional local products from the Lazio region.
Overnight in Rome.
Day 2: Rome
Discover the Eternal City in a day! Admire some of the world’s most famous artistic treasures, including the highlights of the Vatican Museum and its galleries and Michelangelo’s frescoed masterpiece of the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Enter directly into St Peter’s Basilica, the largest in the world and renowned for its inspiring Bernini interior design and Michelangelo’s stunning “Pietà”.
Our guide will lead you through Rome’s treasures in the afternoon, depicting wonderful stories of the city’s most important squares, fountains, and monuments.
Day 3: Rome to Florence
Check out and depart to Florence by train. Upon arrival, make your own way to the hotel, either on foot or by taxi. Settle in at your accommodation before setting off to explore the jewels of Tuscany, discover the city on foot, and understand its launch of a thousand ideas.
Florence was home to the Medici family dynasty, the most significant art patrons of their time and creators of the Renaissance. Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Brunelleschi, Donatello, Dante, and Galileo are just a few of the geniuses who thrived in this unique city. Visit the many churches, galleries, narrow streets, and palaces that showcase their masterpieces.
In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the two-thousand-year-old history of the “Cradle of the Renaissance” through the eyes of an expert local guide. The guide will take you on an unforgettable journey to discover Florence’s most beautiful squares and monuments.
Florence is dotted with architectural wonders and works of art. On our tour, you will admire first-hand the sites and monuments that have made Florence one of the most visited destinations in the world. To start your tour, you will head to Repubblica Square, one of the most elegant and historically important “piazzas” in Florence, overflowing with refined cafés and luxury shopping.
Follow your guide through the streets and picturesque alleys until you reach Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, where your guide will demonstrate a symbol of good luck by caressing the nose of the famous Porcellino (wild boar) bronze statue. On this tour, you will learn all sorts of local legends, fascinating stories, and unexpected facts about Florence. Right around the corner, your guide will lead you to the intriguing Ponte Vecchio – a true icon of the city. This bridge is famous for its exclusive jewellery stores, unique structure, and for being the only bridge spared during the bombings during the Second World War.
Your journey through Florence will lead to San Giovanni Square, home of the wonderful Florence Cathedral and Brunelleschi’s Dome, as well as the Baptistery and Giotto’s Bell Tower.
Overnight stay in Florence.
Day 4: Florence (optional activities)
In the morning, meet your master perfumer and discover the techniques and secrets of the historical Florentine alchemic tradition. The lesson will take place in an ancient, atmospheric workshop. With centuries of experience, this historic lab has mixed the scientific knowledge of medical care with the healing knowledge and power of herbs, flowers and fruits. Take yourself back in time and imagine the magical atmosphere of alchemists and apothecaries residing in Florence during the Renaissance, surrounded by unique glassware, ampules and rare essences.
In the afternoon, join a small group tour to visit the secrets of the Accademia Gallery, the creation of Michelangelo’s world-renowned masterpieces, the original version of David, and the prisoner of Saint Matthew. The museum was built in 1784 and devoted to the preservation of the symbol of Florence. It is a must for anyone interested in Michelangelo.
Day 5: Florence to Venice
Check out and depart for Venice by train. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel by private water taxi. There will be time to settle in, and in the early afternoon, you will take part in a walking tour of the City of Doges. Overnight stay in Venice.
Day 6: Venice
Board a private water taxi with your guide for a 20-minute ride to Murano Island. We will first visit the VII Century Cathedral of Santa Maria e Donato with its original Roman mosaics. A 15-minute walk through the historical part of Murano will take us to a glass factory for a private visit.
Then, it’s back to our water taxi for a 30-minute ride through the northern part of the lagoon to reach Burano Island. The island is a fisherman’s village famous for its unique lace technique and gastronomic recipes. Explore the picturesque corner of the island and choose a restaurant for your seafood lunch.
In the evening, participate in a local pub crawl, with a tour of the best Venetian taverns and “cicchetterie” tapas bars to discover the local culinary traditions.
Overnight in Venice.
Day 7: Venice to the UK
Check out of your hotel and transfer to Venice airport for your return flight.
Indicative Holiday Prices
All of our holidays are individually tailored to suit your needs and timescale. As a guide, this 7-day suggested holiday will cost from £2,746 per person (two sharing), including international flights, and arrival and departure private transfers.