Ultimate Italy
14 days, Rome to Venice
Itinerary
Day 1Rome
Arrive at any time.
There are no planned activities until tonight's welcome meeting.
We recommend booking pre-tour accommodation to fully explore this magnificent city. Please speak to a G Adventures representative about booking accommodations in Rome before Day 1 of this itinerary.
Please note that if Vatican City is on your must-see list, we highly recommend purchasing your tickets online several weeks prior to your trip. Advance tickets can be reserved online at https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home. Same-day entrance to St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) cannot be guaranteed without advance tickets.
We also recommend pre-booking your ticket to the Colosseum to guarantee entrance and avoid long queues:
https://ticketing.colosseo.it/en
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Optional Activities - Day 1 HideShow
Sistine Chapel
20-25EUR per personAlthough the Sistine Chapel is always very crowded, it is a must-see for any visitor to the Vatican. The magnificent frescoed ceiling of the chapel painted by Michelangelo depicts over 300 figures from the Book of Genesis, the most well-known being “The Creation of Adam,” showing God touching the finger of Adam. “The Last Judgment” on the west wall depicts a scene from the Book of Revelations. Art aficionados, get ready to cross one of your list!
Borghese Gallery
25EUR per personTake a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.
Colosseum Visit
24EUR per personEnjoy a guided tour of this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Learn from your expert guide and you wander the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please!
Accommodation
Below is an example of the hotel we may use in this city. For the actual hotel your specific departure will be using, please check your voucher.
Hotel San Marco Rome (or similar)
Day 2Rome
Enjoy a G Adventures supported migrant led walk of Rome before enjoying a free day to explore a myriad of options. Opt to tour Vatican City, cross the river to charming Trastevere, eat some gelato in Piazza Navona, or swing by the Colosseum and Forum.
While you're here, why not opt to rent a Vespa for the day? Live "la dolce vita" and opt to pre-book the Rome Vintage Vespa Tour on the checkout page ahead of time, to include this optional on your tour.
Your G for Good Moment: Migrantour Rome
Learn all about a different side of Rome with a newcomer to Italy as your guide with Migrantour, a social enterprise that trains immigrants to give tours of the city - with their own flair. G Adventures travellers receive a unique experience as guides give them rare insight into Italian society through an immigrant's eyes. From ancient landmarks to the history of migration to Rome, expect this to be a guided tour like no other.
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Rome, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like visiting the Colosseum, exploring the Pantheon, or sit down to a plate of pasta at a local trattoria. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 2 HideShow
Vatican City Visit
FreeGet ready to tick something off the bucket list. Visit the smallest country in the world—Vatican City! Stand in St Peter’s Square and be wowed by colossal colonnades, numerous statues, and the obelisk. Opt to take in the magnificence of St Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s Pietá, and the Sistine Chapel while you are in the area.
Sistine Chapel
20-25EUR per personAlthough the Sistine Chapel is always very crowded, it is a must-see for any visitor to the Vatican. The magnificent frescoed ceiling of the chapel painted by Michelangelo depicts over 300 figures from the Book of Genesis, the most well-known being “The Creation of Adam,” showing God touching the finger of Adam. “The Last Judgment” on the west wall depicts a scene from the Book of Revelations. Art aficionados, get ready to cross one of your list!
Borghese Gallery
25EUR per personTake a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.
Colosseum Visit
24EUR per personEnjoy a guided tour of this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Learn from your expert guide and you wander the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please!
Rome Vintage Vespa Tour
When in Rome... live "la dolce vita" and hop onto a Vespa! Make your way around the city (like the locals do) on a vintage Vespa scooter. Visit Rome's must-see landmarks with a local guide, who will also be your Vespa driver, on this 3-4 hour afternoon excursion.
Accommodation
Hotel San Marco Rome (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 3Rome/Montepulciano
Depart Rome by train then transfer to the town of Pienza for a visit and for some free time to explore. Continue on to Montepulciano in the heart of the Tuscan countryside and enjoy the medieval and renaissance hill town with an orientation walk and a local wine tasting.
Montepulciano is famous for producing delectable local pork, cheese, "Pici" pasta, and honey. It is also major wine producing area. Take in the stunning vistas, wander cobbled lanes, or opt to sample the local delicacies in small, family-run establishments.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Minibus
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Pienza
Visit Pienza with your CEO, a picturesque town in Tuscany which is a blend of Renaissance architecture and culinary delights. Stroll along Corso Rossellino, the main street, lined with charming shops and cafes.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation walk of Montepeluciano with Wine Tasting
Enjoy a walk with your CEO to get your bearings of this idyllic Tuscan town, and awaken your tastebuds with a wine tasting of some of the region's finest.
Optional Activities - Day 3 HideShow
Piazza Grande Visit
Make your way to the highest point in town to the Piazza Grande, the centre of day to day life in Montepulciano. You'll find some of the town's most impressive architecture, such as the Palazzo Comunale, and Town Hall. Climb to the tower in the Palazzo Comunale for great views of Lake Trasimeno and Val d'Orcia.
Bike Rental
Rent a bike from a local shop and head out to explore.
Accommodation
Albergo Duomo (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 4Montepulciano
Spend the day in the Italian countryside. The famous wine-producing region is the perfect place for an optional vineyard tour and wine tasting, or a bike ride in the rolling hills.
Opt to travel further afield to the thermal springs of Bagni San Filippo.
Free Time
Get out and explore this charming town by foot or bicycle.
Optional Activities - Day 4 HideShow
Montepulciano Wine Tour
Travel outside of Montepulciano through the rolling vineyards to one of the surrounding wineries, such as the legendary Avignonesi estate or Cantina Fattoria della Talosa. Enjoy strolling through the hectares of greenery, indulging in a sample of local wines, and a guided tour of the cellars.
Bagni San Filippo Thermal Springs
The Tuscan region is known for natural thermal springs. Take a 30min ride out of town to Bagni San Filippo and find yourself in a picturesque setting of calciferous formations, waterfalls, and natural pools; this scene is made more spectacular by the vivid colour of the water made bright blue by effect of the hot springs meeting the cool river water. Sit back, relax, and be healed.
Bike Rental
Rent a bike from a local shop and head out to explore.
Accommodation
Albergo Duomo (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 5Montepulciano/Florence
Travel to picturesque Siena. After an orientation walk around this medieval city, opt to visit Torre del Mangia, Battistero, il Campo, or the Duomo or to take a "passeggiata" and meet the Sienese locals. Continue on to Florence and enjoy an evening walk to Piazzale Michelangelo for a fantastic panoramic view of the city.
Arrive to the inimitable Firenze. Walk through the city catching a glimpse of the Duomo, Piazza Indipendenza, Piazza della Signoria, and the Ponte Vecchio. Head to Piazzale Michelangelo with your CEO for the most famous and photographed vista of the city.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Orientation Walk Siena
Wander through the medieval town of Siena, safely nestled in the heart of Tuscany. Feast your eyes on the gothic architecture while exploring the historic centre, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Piazzale Michelangelo Walk
Cross through the centre of the city and over the Arno. Climb to the top of the hill and check out the vista over the river from Piazzale Michelangelo. It's worth every step!
Optional Activities - Day 5 HideShow
Ponte Vecchio Visit
Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.
Il Duomo di Firenze Visit
Free-30EUR per personThis green, pink, and white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed. Wander through the cathedral or choose to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and be rewarded with extraordinary views of the city!
Accommodation
Hotel Meridiana (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 6Florence
Immerse yourself in the splendor of Florence on a guided walking tour this morning. Catch a glimpse of the intricate buildings that make Florence a favourite to travellers the world over, and better understand the rich history and local way of living, then enjoy lunch at the local market. With a free afternoon, the choices are endless. Opt to visit the Duomo, David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, Uffizi Gallery, medieval Ponte Vecchio, or the Medici Chapels, just to name a handful.
The afternoon is yours to explore. Check out the Mercato Centrale or any number of cafés and trattorias. If you came to shop, start at one end of the city and just keep going. There's beautiful architecture, famous museums, Renaissance art pieces, and charming cobblestone streets everywhere. If you wish to go further afield, take a wine tasting bike tour up to Fiesole and the vineyards of Chianti.
If you wish to visit popular museums like the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries, 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). Advance tickets can be reserved online at https://www.uffizi.it/en/tickets and https://www.galleriaaccademiafirenze.it/tickets/
Florence Guided Walking Tour
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Florence on a guided tour through its iconic streets and landmarks. This immersive experience, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Renaissance. Marvel at the architectural splendor of the Duomo, explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Learn about the city's illustrious past, from its Medici rulers to its world-renowned artists.
Free Time
There's plenty to see and do in Florence, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a visit to the Uffizi Gallery to see the works of the Renaissance masters. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 6 HideShow
David (Galleria dell'Accademia) Visit
22.50-26.50EUR per personVisit Michelangelo's most famous statue, 'David'. Marvel at the artistry on display in the intricately carved piece of marble. Please note that pre-booking your admission online will be 26.50EUR and booking on site will be 22.50EUR.
Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
17.75EUR per personVisiti the Pitti Palace and learn about history alongside modern art.
Ponte Vecchio Visit
Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.
National Museum of Bargello
15.75EUR per personExplore this museum, housed in one of the earliest buildings in Florence (dating to 1255). Stroll through the corridors to learn about the history of this site and its many uses, and see the fantastic works from master artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo.
Uffizi Gallery Visit
25EUR per personHead to the Uffizi Gallery to see spectacular Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci paintings in person.
Medici Chapels Visit
9-32EUR per personAdmire the opulence of the two Medici Chapels. The Sagrestia Nuova was designed by Michelangelo and built as a mausoleum for the powerful Medici family.
Il Duomo di Firenze Visit
Free-30EUR per personThis green, pink, and white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed. Wander through the cathedral or choose to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and be rewarded with extraordinary views of the city!
Accommodation
Hotel Meridiana (or similar)
Meals included:
Breakfast | LunchDay 7Florence
With a free day, the choices are endless. Opt to visit the Duomo, David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, Uffizi Gallery, medieval Ponte Vecchio, or the Medici Chapels, just to name a handful.
Your Discover Moment
There's plenty to see and do in Florence, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a visit to the Uffizi Gallery to see the works of the Renaissance masters, marvel at the Duomo and take in the panoramic view of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!
Optional Activities - Day 7 HideShow
Ponte Vecchio Visit
Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.
National Museum of Bargello
15.75EUR per personExplore this museum, housed in one of the earliest buildings in Florence (dating to 1255). Stroll through the corridors to learn about the history of this site and its many uses, and see the fantastic works from master artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo.
David (Galleria dell'Accademia) Visit
22.50-26.50EUR per personVisit Michelangelo's most famous statue, 'David'. Marvel at the artistry on display in the intricately carved piece of marble. Please note that pre-booking your admission online will be 26.50EUR and booking on site will be 22.50EUR.
Uffizi Gallery Visit
25EUR per personHead to the Uffizi Gallery to see spectacular Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci paintings in person.
Il Duomo di Firenze Visit
Free-30EUR per personThis green, pink, and white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed. Wander through the cathedral or choose to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and be rewarded with extraordinary views of the city!
Medici Chapels Visit
9-32EUR per personAdmire the opulence of the two Medici Chapels. The Sagrestia Nuova was designed by Michelangelo and built as a mausoleum for the powerful Medici family.
Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
17.75EUR per personVisiti the Pitti Palace and learn about history alongside modern art.
Accommodation
Hotel Meridiana (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 8Florence/Cinque Terre
Head out of Florence on a private bus and visit Pisa en route to the coast, with a bit of free time to explore. Settle into the colourful, charming town in the Cinque Terre region.
Travel to Pisa and stop for a visit at the Field of Miracles to see the famous leaning tower (entrance fee not included). Later, head on to the coastal paradise of Cinque Terre.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Pisa Visit
Visit Pisa and check out its famous leaning tower. Wander the area and take photos to your heart's content. Opt to enter the Pisa Cathedral, or enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Accommodation
Hotel Genova (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 9Cinque Terre
Lace up your hiking shoes today and walk one of the most scenic trails in the area, from Corniglia to Manarola. Visit charming, colourful towns along the way and take in the stunning vistas. Afterward, immerse yourself deeper in the Cinque Terre region with a short stop in the cliffside village of Riomaggiore.
The national park pass and daily unlimited train ticket is included. Opt to follow your CEO along centuries-old footpaths and mule tracks leading through olive groves, vineyards, and orchards on a full day hike, or hop on and off the train, experiencing each town on your own. Choose to rest in each of the 5 villages, sampling delicacies in each place, such as local pesto, espresso, or delicious gelato.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Cinque Terre Hike
Set out on one of the most scenic and rewarding trails in the Cinque Terre region. This moderately challenging hike through Cinque Terre National Park offers stunning views of vineyards and charming hillside villages.
National Park Pass and Unlimited Train Ticket
Use the included park fee and train ticket for this trip. Opt to follow your CEO along centuries—old footpaths and mule tracks leading through olive groves, vineyards and orchards on an exhilarating hike, or hop on-and-off the train, experiencing each town on your own.
Riomaggiore Visit
Set out to explore Riomaggiore, a quaint village nestled on the coastline of this beautiful region. Take in views of colourful houses, steep cliffs, and terraced vineyards.
Accommodation
Hotel Genova (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 10Cinque Terre/Lake Como
Travel to Lake Como, a perfectly picturesque region laden with villas and lush gardens. Arrive in the late afternoon then hop on the the historic Como-Brunate funicular. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Lake Como and the Alps. This quick 7-minute ride ascends to the charming village of Brunate, known as the "Balcony of the Alps."
Set out from Cinque Terre on a train journey with a few changes en route, passing through Milan and on to elegant Como Town, located on the shores of Lake Como. On the border with Switzerland, enjoy the spectacular backdrop of the snowy-peaked Alps.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Funicular Ride
Enjoy a funicular ride from Como town to the hilltop village of Brunate. In operation since 1894, the historic lift is the best way to get a bird's eye view of the stunning region.
Accommodation
B&B Hotel Como City Center (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 11Lake Como
Spend the day on Lake Como, enjoying the scenery via ferry. Return to town in the late afternoon and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Set out by ferry to explore the lake and the elegant towns of Menaggio and Bellagio. Explore shops, restaurants, and fine residences before spending the evening as you see fit. Soak up the elegant atmosphere in one of the lakeside cafés or restaurants. Take some time for shopping — some of the finest Italian designers are to be found in Como's chic boutiques.
Lake Como Ferry Excursion
Experience the beauty of Lake Como with a scenic ferry ride, stopping at the charming towns of Menaggio and Bellagio. Hop off at Menaggio to explore its beautiful hiking trails or wander the picturesque streets of Bellagio, discovering its quaint boutiques and artisan shops. Don't miss the walk to Punta Spartivento for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Free Time
Set out and explore this elegant lakeside town.
Optional Activities - Day 11 HideShow
Como Cathedral
FreeHead to the piazza in the historic part of the city to pay visit to one of the most stunning sites in Como. With its ornate and unique architecture, you won't be able to miss it.
Accommodation
B&B Hotel Como City Center (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 12Lake Como/Venice
Travel to Venice, the "city of canals," and enjoy a guided walking tour over bridges and canals, and view the Piazza San Marco.
Venice is truly unique and magificent to behold and explore.
There will be plenty of time to wander the narrow cobblestone streets and wide piazzas, crossing hundreds of tiny bridges over the canals and, of course, getting lost in Venice's labyrinth.
Local Train
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Free Time
Head out through the winding alleyways for your first taste of magical Venice.
Guided Walking Tour of Venice
Discover iconic Venetian landmarks on a guided walking tour. Revel in the labyrinth like alleyways, charming bridges, and bustling squares, while gondolas glide through serene canals. Enjoy the unique ambiance of this historic city where every corner tells a story.
Accommodation
Albergo Marin (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 13Venice
Spend the day getting lost in Venice. Opt for a vaporetto (water taxi) ride to the islands of Murano and Burano, take a gondola under the Ponte Rialto (Bridge of Lovers), explore the Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs, savour traditional Venetian cuisine on a food tour, or get lost in the twisting maze of the city.
Please note that special meal requirements cannot be accommodated on the optional Venice Food Tour.
Free Time
With so much to see and do, don't waste a minute.With so much to see and do, don't waste a minute -- get out and explore the "city of canals".
Optional Activities - Day 13 HideShow
Venice Food Tour
Explore Venice’s diverse culinary scene with a food tour through Cannaregio and the historic Jewish Ghetto. Enjoy a progressive meal that highlights Venetian flavours beginning with Esse biscuits and Orecchio di Haman, authentic venetian-Jewish baked goods, followed by Italian espresso and a classic spritz and tramezzino. Pair locally produced wine with creamy risotto, sample baccalà and polenta, and rinse it down with a glass of sparkling prosecco. Wander through charming alleyways, savor each dish, and uncover the rich history behind Venetian cuisine. Finish your culinary adventure with a choice of tiramisù or gelato.
Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Visit
17EUR per personVisit this former palace, rebuilt and restored numerous times, and admire the Gothic Venetian architecture. Once the seat of the government, the Palazzo Ducale is now a grand museum. Enjoy the stellar artwork, ornate chambers, and courtyards.
Gondola Ride
80EUR per groupSit back and enjoy a different point of view as you glide through the historic canals of Venice on a gondola.
Saint Mark's Square and Basilica Visit
FreeEnter the picture-perfect Piazza San Marco from one of the many winding alleyways and stare in awe at the grandeur. With the massive, ornate basilica standing tall at one end, pigeons gathering and flying around, and violinists playing a Vivaldi tune at a café table — this is Venice. Wander the square and people watch or duck inside the glittering basilica for more Venetian inspiration.
Murano and Burano Islands Visit
20EUR per personTake a quick trip across the lagoon and experience Venice’s artisanal roots. Explore the island of Murano, famous for its skilled glassblowers, and walk along the colourful streets of Burano, known for a centuries-old tradition of lacemaking.
Campanile San Marco Lookout
8EUR per personClimb to the top of the Campanile - Venice's tallest building - to take in a great bird's eye view of the cityscape and lagoon.
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
10EUR per personNoted for its collection of more than 60 paintings by Italian master Tintoretto, Scuola Grande di San Rocco is the last remaining "scuole" or confraternity dedicated to charitable works. The Upper Hall, which contains Tintoretto's ceiling masterpiece, allows visitors a peek into opulent Venetian court life.
Guggenheim Museum Visit
15EUR per personWhile walking down the Grand Canal, stop into this museum to see its extensive modern art collection.
Accommodation
Albergo Marin (or similar)
Meals included:
BreakfastDay 14Venice
Depart at any time.
We recommend staying an extra day or two to fully experience all this beautiful city has to offer.
Optional Activities - Day 14 HideShow
Scuola Grande di San Rocco
10EUR per personNoted for its collection of more than 60 paintings by Italian master Tintoretto, Scuola Grande di San Rocco is the last remaining "scuole" or confraternity dedicated to charitable works. The Upper Hall, which contains Tintoretto's ceiling masterpiece, allows visitors a peek into opulent Venetian court life.
Gondola Ride
80EUR per groupSit back and enjoy a different point of view as you glide through the historic canals of Venice on a gondola.
Gallerie dell'Accademia
12EUR per personFeaturing works from famed artists including Bellini, Tintoretto, and Veronese, there is no better place to delve into the history of Venetian art.
Campanile San Marco Lookout
8EUR per personClimb to the top of the Campanile - Venice's tallest building - to take in a great bird's eye view of the cityscape and lagoon.
Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Visit
17EUR per personVisit this former palace, rebuilt and restored numerous times, and admire the Gothic Venetian architecture. Once the seat of the government, the Palazzo Ducale is now a grand museum. Enjoy the stellar artwork, ornate chambers, and courtyards.
Guggenheim Museum Visit
15EUR per personWhile walking down the Grand Canal, stop into this museum to see its extensive modern art collection.