9-Day Rome, Florence, Venice: The Big 3 Small Group Tour

Day 01: Friday – Arrival to Rome (Included Airport Transfer, Walking Tour, Welcome Dinner)

Tour Physical Requirements and Accessibility Advisory

Kindly note that our comprehensive Italy tour is a physically engaging experience designed for travelers comfortable with extended periods of walking and moderate physical activities. The tour includes multiple walking excursions through historical city centers with cobblestone streets, nature hikes in picturesque terrains, and navigating through narrow lanes in quaint villages. Because of these elements, the tour may not be accessible or enjoyable for those with limited mobility or those requiring walking assistance. We aim to deliver a memorable and enriching experience for all our guests, but please consider the physical demands of this tour when choosing your Italian adventure package.

Welcome to Rome: Your First Day of a Spectacular Italian Journey

Arrival & Check-in: Meet and Greet at Rome’s Airport
Upon your touchdown at Rome’s bustling airport, you’ll be welcomed by a **personalized driver service**, setting the tone for an exceptional travel experience ahead. You will be chauffeured in comfort to your **luxury hotel** situated in the heart of Rome, where excellence and attention to detail are the order of the day.

The Orientation Session: Your Gateway to Italian Adventures
In the early afternoon, rendezvous in your hotel’s exclusive meeting area to become acquainted with your Tour Host and like-minded travelers. This is more than a mere briefing—consider it your gateway to unlocking the mysteries and marvels of Italy. Your Tour Host will engage you with vital information, covering everything you need to know for the journey that awaits.

A Guided Exploration: Discovering Rome’s Baroque Elegance
Later, your Roman escapade commences with a **guided walking tour of Baroque Rome**, an experience not to be missed. Marvel at the:

Captivating Piazza Navona
Here, art and architecture fuse in a public space, making it one of Rome’s most popular squares, punctuated by fountains, palaces, and bustling cafes.

Majestic Pantheon
A towering masterpiece of Roman architecture, the Pantheon will captivate you with its intricate dome and ancient history.

Iconic Spanish Steps
Admire the elegant design and social atmosphere of these legendary steps, a hub for both locals and tourists alike.

Historic Italian Parliament Building
Witness the grandeur of Italy’s political epicenter, steeped in history and adorned with architectural finesse.

As you meander through the narrow, cobblestone streets, your professional guide will imbue your exploration with tales, historical context, and local insights, painting a vivid portrait of Rome’s rich cultural tapestry.

Culinary Delights: An Authentic Roman Dinner
As dusk envelops the city, the group will reconvene at a **quaint local restaurant** that epitomizes Roman hospitality. Relish an exquisite welcome dinner, featuring authentic Italian dishes that tantalize the palate. This is the perfect setting to raise your glasses for a spirited toast to the exhilarating adventures yet to come.

Rest & Recharge: A Tranquil Night in Rome
After a day filled with awe and splendor, retire to your luxurious hotel room for a tranquil overnight stay. As you drift into sleep, let your dreams be filled with the promise of more Italian wonders waiting to be explored.

Overnight Rome

Day 02: Saturday – The Vatican & Cooking Experience (Breakfast, Guided Vatican Tour, Cooking Class)

Rome – Vatican Museums – Sistine Chapel – Cooking Class

Embark on a Day Filled with Artistic Splendor and Culinary Delight

Morning: Journey Through the Vatican’s Cultural Riches

Prepare for a riveting day of unmatched art, storied history, and Italian culinary magic. Start your day with a nourishing breakfast at your upscale hotel before setting off for the treasure trove that is the Vatican Museum. Bypass the daunting queues with your pre-reserved tickets and follow your insightful guide through a maze of awe-inspiring galleries. Each room is a time capsule, preserving priceless artifacts and art pieces from various epochs. Gaze at magnificent sculptures like the Apollo Belvedere and the tragic beauty of Laocoön & His Sons. Be equally enchanted by the opulent Raphael Rooms, each a tableau of exquisite Renaissance artistry.

The Unforgettable Sistine Chapel Experience

The pièce de résistance of your Vatican sojourn awaits—the Sistine Chapel. Stand beneath Michelangelo’s celestial ceiling frescoes and feel the weight of human genius as you behold the iconic “Creation of Adam.” This awe-filled moment, surrounded by some of the world’s greatest artistic achievements, is one that you’ll cherish forever. Cap off your Vatican escapade with a stroll into the monumental St. Peter’s Square, and stand awestruck at the architectural magnificence of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Afternoon: Leisure Time and Culinary Anticipation

Retreat to your luxurious hotel quarters to unwind and perhaps even reflect on the morning’s artistic adventures. Use this time to relax and gear up for the evening’s gastronomic escapade.

Evening: Master the Art of Italian Cooking in Trastevere

As the sun starts to dip below the Roman skyline, make your way to the charming district of Trastevere, a locale celebrated for its authentic Italian culture. Here, you’ll meet a seasoned local chef who will unveil the time-honored traditions and secrets behind authentic Italian cuisine. Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on pasta-making class while sipping on effervescent Prosecco and nibbling on classic Roman aperitivi.

Conclude this delightful culinary experience by sharing the meal you’ve just prepared with your fellow amateur chefs. Relish the complex flavors, fresh ingredients, and the sheer joy of having created an authentic Italian dish. Your momentous day draws to a close as you return to your hotel, your heart and belly full, ready for a night of peaceful slumber.

Overnight Rome.

Day 03: Sunday – Free day in Rome (Breakfast)

Rome Free Day

Today, you have the freedom to tailor your day according to your interests and desires. While the tour offers plenty of exciting experiences, this day is designed to provide you with the flexibility to explore Rome independently. You will have access to our exclusive online Rome City Guide as part of your package for plenty of free time ideas.

OR

There are numerous options available for you to make the most of your time in the Eternal City. You might choose to delve deeper into Rome’s history by exploring the Colosseum and Roman Forum with a small group tour or just skip the line tickets, two iconic ancient landmarks that bring the past to life. Alternatively, art enthusiasts may opt to visit the splendid collections at Palazzo Borghese, home to some of Europe’s most renowned artworks.

Add an optional trip to the South’s most famous site: Pompeii. 

Embrace an epic journey through time and escape the city’s hustle and bustle for a day by taking an enthralling day trip to Pompeii from Rome. This archaeological wonder is not just a relic but a hauntingly beautiful portal into a bygone era. As you step onto a comfortable, climate-controlled train, prepare for a scenic rail journey through the Italian countryside, which serves as a prelude to the awe-inspiring history that awaits you.

Upon arrival to Pompeii, you have the choice between a private guide showing you the sights or just entrance tickets to explore on your own…

Upon arriving in Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll be greeted by an expert guide who will bring to life the well-preserved ruins of this ancient Roman city, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Each cobblestone and fresco has a story to tell, and your guide will expertly unveil the tapestry of daily life and the civilization that once thrived here.

As you wander through the labyrinthine streets, you’ll encounter the city’s Forum, the social, economic, and political center of Pompeii. Marvel at the meticulously crafted columns and envision the bustling marketplace that would have been filled with townspeople over a millennium ago. From here, a visit to the ancient amphitheater offers you a glimpse into the entertainment and social practices of a civilization long past.

Next, discover the villas and homes that still stand in haunting elegance, their rooms adorned with well-preserved frescoes and mosaics. Walk through the Thermae, the ancient Roman bathhouses, where the intricate heating systems and the communal bathing culture will fascinate you. It’s not just a ruin, but a living museum where each corner whispers secrets of a life halted in its tracks.

As the sun dips low in the sky, reflecting off the ancient stones and casting elongated shadows, you’ll have a chance to reflect on the impermanence of life and the eternity of beauty and culture. The visit to Pompeii is not just a tour but a poignant experience that leaves you with a newfound appreciation for the rich tapestry of human history.

As you make your way back to Rome, the setting sun will cast its golden hues over the Italian landscape, allowing you quiet moments to internalize the incredible journey through history you’ve just experienced. You’ll arrive back in Rome with a sense of fulfillment, your soul enriched by an unforgettable sojourn into Italy’s storied past.

Overnight in Rome.

Day 04: Monday – Private transfer, Tuscany and Florence (Breakfast, Winery Visit + Lunch)

Rome – Tuscan Wine Towns Montepulciano & Montalcino – Lunch – Wine Tasting –  Florence

Journey from Rome to Florence: A Tapestry of Italian Wonders

Bid a heartfelt farewell to Rome, the Eternal City, as you set forth on a captivating journey to Florence, Italy’s Renaissance jewel. Experience the epitome of comfort as you step into your luxury minicoach, furnished with sumptuous seats and state-of-the-art amenities. As you traverse the enchanting landscapes of Tuscany, lose yourself in panoramic vistas of rolling hills blanketed with lush vineyards, olive groves swaying in the breeze, and picture-perfect hamlets that punctuate the landscape like jewels in a crown.

Wine and Time Travel in Montepulciano

The Italian countryside reveals itself in chapters, each more compelling than the last. Your first memorable stop is Montepulciano, a sanctuary for wine aficionados and history buffs alike. Guided by a local expert, navigate the ancient, cobblestone pathways and discover secluded squares framed by grandiose Renaissance buildings. Each façade, worn yet majestic, tells a story of a rich, layered history. Here, immerse yourself in the craft of viticulture, gaining insights into the mineral-rich soil and unique climate that give birth to the renowned Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Montalcino: A Symphony of Flavors and Aromas

Your Tuscan odyssey continues in Montalcino, a town globally celebrated for its world-class Brunello di Montalcino wines. At an award-winning vineyard, meet the dedicated vintners behind these exquisite creations. Partake in an expertly curated wine-tasting session where each sip unfolds layers of intricate flavors and aromatic nuances. Complement this ethereal experience with a sumptuous, farm-to-table Tuscan lunch, featuring delectable offerings such as Pecorino cheese, locally sourced meats, and oven-fresh breads.

Evening Arrival in Florence: A Renaissance Wonderland

As the golden hues of the Tuscan sun begin to wane, you’ll make your triumphant entry into Florence. Check into your luxurious hotel, an oasis crafted with an unerring attention to comfort and elegance, setting the stage for an unforgettable stay.

Discover Florence: An Evening of Romance and Culinary Delights

The night is your canvas, and Florence offers a palette of endless possibilities. Traverse cobblestone streets under the glow of antique lanterns, allowing Florence’s artistic and historical essence to sweep you off your feet. Perhaps opt for a sumptuous dinner at a cozy trattoria where Florentine steak and perfectly al dente pasta are menu staples.

Retreat to the comfort of your plush hotel room to cap off the night. As you lay your head on your luxurious pillow, let the day’s unforgettable experiences solidify into treasured memories, knowing that Florence still has numerous wonders in store for you.

Overnight Florence.

Day 05: Tuesday – Exploring Florence (Breakfast, Guided Florence Walk, Skip the Line Michelangelo’s David)

Florence

Morning: Gastronomic Exploration at San Lorenzo Market
Begin your day at Florence’s bustling San Lorenzo Market, a culinary sanctuary that’s a hit among both locals and travelers. Navigate through a maze of vibrant stalls filled with an array of local produce. Treat your palate to delectable artisanal cheeses, savor the natural sweetness of seasonally ripe fruits, and sample an assortment of bread varieties, each baked to Tuscan perfection.

Afternoon: Journey Through Florence’s Historic Core
As afternoon arrives, an expert guide will shepherd you through the historical heartbeat of Florence. First on your itinerary is the captivating Piazza della Signoria. This public square is a living museum, adorned with remarkable sculptures and presided over by the grandiose Palazzo Vecchio. Feel the essence of Florence’s past and present converge in this iconic location.

Within walking distance lies the majestic Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, commonly known as Florence’s Cathedral. While today’s tour allows for external admiration only, the intricate facades and towering spires are sufficient to convey its monumental significance. Nearby, Giotto’s Bell Tower stands tall, offering those who climb it a panoramic view over a sea of terracotta rooftops.

Highlight: The Accademia Gallery and Michelangelo’s David
Your day reaches its zenith at the revered Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s unparalleled masterpiece—the statue of David. As you stand before this sublime work of art, absorb the meticulous details that bring this marble giant to life. David is more than just a statue; it’s a testament to artistic prowess and an enduring symbol of human potential.

Optional Tour: An Evening in Siena & San Gimignano
For those who wish to extend the day’s exploration, an optional tour to Siena and San Gimignano beckons. These medieval havens offer a journey back in time, complete with cobblestone streets, timeless architecture, and a treasure trove of historical art. The day culminates with a curated dinner at a charming boutique winery, nestled amidst the rolling Tuscan hills. Ask for pricing when booking your tour.

Overnight Stay in Florence
Retire to your luxury accommodation in Florence, allowing the richness of the day’s experiences to settle into your memory as you anticipate the next chapter in your grand Italian escapade.

Day 06: Wednesday – Florence Free Day (Breakfast, Optional Day Trip to Cinque Terre)

Florence Free Day or Optional Tour to Cinque Terre

Today is a Free Day in Florence. Use your included Florence City Guide for free time ideas OR join our optional tour to Cinque Terre. Ask about pricing when booking.

Unveil the Enchanting Beauty of Cinque Terre: A Day of Scenic Splendors and Culinary Treats

Morning: A Picturesque Journey from Florence to Cinque Terre

Today presents a golden opportunity to experience the Cinque Terre, one of Italy’s most visually arresting destinations. Your excursion begins with a serene drive from the art-rich city of Florence to the rugged, cliff-hugging Cinque Terre coastline. Feel your anticipation build as the urban landscape transforms into idyllic coastal views and verdant hillsides.

Embark on an Intimate Coastal Train Ride

Once you arrive, hop onto a charming local train that serves as the lifeline between these five quaint, colorful fishing villages. This is no ordinary train ride; it’s a mini-cruise on rails offering panoramic vistas of the shimmering Ligurian Sea. Every tunnel exit unveils a new awe-inspiring view, making each moment aboard an exciting revelation.

Discover the Cultural Tapestry of Each Unique Village

As you alight at each village, you’ll take leisurely strolls through labyrinthine lanes that defy the constraints of two dimensions. Cobblestone streets meander through old stone houses, each bearing unique façades adorned with vibrant hues of cerulean blue, sunshine yellow, and terracotta. Your knowledgeable guide will regale you with fascinating tales and histories unique to each village, adding layers of understanding to your sensory experiences.

Indulgent Seafood Luncheon by the Azure Sea

Midday brings with it the opportunity for a gastronomic interlude. Relish a sumptuous seafood feast that captures the essence of Mediterranean culinary traditions. Every bite promises an explosion of flavor, freshly caught and perfectly seasoned. All this, while you bask in the views of the azure Ligurian waters, providing a multi-sensory dining experience unlike any other.

Afternoon: A Hike Through Cinque Terre’s Vine-Cloaked Hillsides

The afternoon portion of your Cinque Terre adventure invites you to meander through sun-drenched vineyards that blanket the terraced cliffs. This is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through a natural canvas that has fueled the imaginations of artists and travelers for generations. The panorama of endless sea meeting colorful cliffside hamlets will leave you spellbound, justifying every superlative ever penned about this magical locale.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility Notice

Please be advised that this Cinque Terre tour involves a considerable amount of walking, including navigating through narrow, cobblestone streets and embarking on nature hikes across terraced vineyards. Due to the terrain and the nature of the tour, it may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who require assisted walking aids. We strive to provide the most fulfilling experience for all our travelers; however, the physical demands of this specific tour should be considered when planning your Italian adventure.

For those interested in this captivating optional tour, be sure to inquire about pricing during your booking process.

Day 07: Thursday – Venice (Breakfast, High Speed Train)

A Seamless Transition: From Florence’s Artistry to Venice’s Waterways

Departing Florence: The First-Class High-Speed Journey
After enjoying an Italian breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to Florence, the city of art and history. Head to the train station where a high-speed train awaits to take you to Venice. As you sit back in the comfortable seats, gaze out the window at the changing landscapes—from Tuscan hills to serene fields, each moment is a painting come to life.

Venice Awaits: Your Arrival in the City of Canals
As you arrive in the late morning, you’ll instantly notice that Venice is not just a city; it’s a **fantasy world built on water**. Say goodbye to cars and roads, and enter a mesmerizing labyrinth of **canals, small islands, and hundreds of bridges**. A seamless transfer will take you to your elegant hotel in the peaceful Laguna area, a place where Venetian charm emanates from every corner.

Unveiling Venice: A Day at Your Own Pace
Once you’re comfortably settled in your luxurious accommodations, the day is yours to shape as you please. Feel free to explore Venice’s enchanting nooks and crannies. Wander through its narrow maze-like alleys, stumble upon secret squares, and immerse yourself in the unique Venetian culture. Venice offers a myriad of experiences that promise to beguile your senses and capture your heart.

A Venetian Night: Restful Sleep Amidst Serene Canals
As the day concludes, and the Venetian sky transforms into shades of twilight, make your way back to your hotel for a peaceful night’s sleep. Let the **melodic sounds of the canals lull you into dreams of more Italian wonders to discover on your journey.

Overnight Venice.

Day 08: Friday – Venice (Breakfast, Guided Venice Tour, Gondola Ride, Farewell Dinner)

A Day in Venice: From Historic Markets to Serene Gondola Rides

Morning Beginnings: Rendezvous at Rialto Bridge
Start your day early with the rising Venetian sun to set forth on a journey through Venice’s soul and heritage. Meet your expert guide near the iconic Rialto Bridge, a testament to Venice’s maritime legacy and architectural prowess. Here, you’ll delve into the fascinating origins of a city sculpted by lagoon mud and shaped by centuries of sea-borne trade.

Rialto Fish Market: A Vibrant Culinary Hub
Your day will take a sensory turn as you traverse through the bustling Rialto Fish Market. Experience the ambiance where both professional chefs and everyday Venetians converge in search of the freshest marine offerings. It’s an intoxicating blend of sights, smells, and colors that reflect the city’s intimate relationship with the sea.

Venetian Backstreets: The Quiet Allure
Venture into the enchanting labyrinthine alleys of Venice, crossing timeless bridges and discovering tranquil piazzas that offer a slice of Venetian serenity. Your guide will augment your journey with captivating stories and historical snippets, punctuating the tour with landmarks like the childhood home of Marco Polo, the famed Venetian explorer.

Gondola Dreams: Float Through Venice
Next, board a gondola for a 30-minute ride that promises both spectacle and serenity. Drift through bustling canals as well as hushed residential waterways, absorbing the unique Venetian atmosphere that merges the city’s liveliness with an inexplicable tranquility.

Afternoon Wonders: The Treasures of St. Mark’s Square
Following a well-deserved lunch break, assemble in St. Mark’s Square for another chapter of exploration. Inside the magnificent St. Mark’s Basilica, witness Byzantine brilliance in the form of golden mosaics that grace the towering ceilings. Here, you’ll learn about the basilica’s transformation into Venice’s most iconic landmark.

Doge’s Palace: An Empire’s Epicenter
Extend your Venetian journey into the Doge’s Palace, once the political and maritime command center of the Venetian empire. Your guide will unfold the chronicles of the Doge and an empire that commanded respect and influence across both the Mediterranean and Asia, despite possessing a minuscule footprint on the Italian peninsula.

Evening Grace: Farewell Dinner and Overnight Stay
As twilight wraps the city in a magical glow, return to your hotel to unwind and reminisce. In the evening, unite with fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner at a charming Venetian restaurant. Raise your glasses to a well-traveled journey through Italy as you prepare for a restful

overnight stay in Venice.

Day 09: Saturday – Venice (Breakfast, Optional Private Airport Transfer)

The Final Chapter: Concluding Your Italian Odyssey in Venice with Optional Departure Services

Morning Farewell: A Last Taste of Venice
Start your day in Venice with a **leisurely breakfast**, letting the flavors of authentic Italian cuisine serve as a fond farewell. Reflect on the memories you’ve made in Rome, Florence, and Venice as you enjoy your final meal in this magical city.

Self-Guided Departure: Important Transfer Information
After breakfast, it’s time to independently make your way to Venice’s airport or railway station for your onward journey. Please note that airport transfers in Venice are not included in the package. However, if you’d like to add a touch of convenience to your departure, we offer an optional transfer service with assistance to the Venice airport for an additional cost. The cost of this service varies and is based on the departure time of your flight.

Parting Thoughts: Inviting You for More Italian Adventures
As you set off on your next adventure, we hope you carry with you not just photographs, but treasured memories of your time exploring Rome, Florence, and Venice. Although this chapter of your Italian journey is coming to a close, the story is far from over. We eagerly await the opportunity to welcome you back for **more unforgettable experiences in Italy and all of Western Europe. Arrivederci!

2024 Departure Dates

Spring

Friday, April 05, 2024
Friday, April 12, 2024
Friday April 26, 2024
Friday, May 10, 2024
Friday, May 24, 2024
Friday, May 31, 2024
Friday, June 02, 2024

Summer

Friday, June 14, 2024
Friday, June 28, 2024
Friday, July 12, 2024
Friday, July 19, 2024

Fall

Friday, September 13, 2024
Friday, September 27, 2024
Friday, October 11, 2024

Winter

Friday, October 25, 2024
Friday, November 01, 2024
Friday, November 08, 2024
Friday, November 15, 2024

2024 Prices

Prices are per person, land only in Euro Dollars.

Key

Double = Two people per room in one or two beds
Single = One person in a double room
Triple = Three people sharing a room
HD = Half Day
FD = Full Day

April

Friday, April 05, 2024
Friday, April 12, 2024
Friday April 26, 2024

Double: Euro 3,256.90
Single Use: Euro 4,020.70
Triple: Euro 2,968.80

May

Friday, May 10, 2024
Friday, May 24, 2024
Friday, May 31, 2024

Double: Euro 3,330.60
Single Use: Euro 4,141.30
Triple: Euro 3,022.40

June

Friday, June 02, 2024
Friday, June 14, 2024
Friday, June 28, 2024

Double: Euro 3,431.10
Single Use: Euro 4,328.90
Triple: Euro 3,115.20

July

Friday, July 12, 2024
Friday, July 19, 2024

Double: Euro 3,096.10
Single Use: Euro 3,739.30
Triple: Euro 2,827.10

August

Friday, August 02, 2024

Double: Euro 2,889.74
Single Use: Euro 3,360.75
Triple: Euro 2,649.11

September

Friday, September 13, 2024
Friday, September 27, 2024

Double: Euro 3,330.60
Single Use: Euro 4,141.30
Triple: Euro 3,022.40

October

Friday, October 11, 2024
Friday, October 25, 2024

Double: Euro 3,330.60
Single Use: Euro 4,141.30
Triple: Euro 3,022.40

November

Friday, November 01, 2024
Friday, November 08, 2024
Friday, November 15, 2024

Double: Euro 3,065.95
Single Use: Euro 3,674.98
Triple: Euro 2,800.53

Custom Option Pricing 

Customized pricing is based on exact dates of travel, level of accommodation, sightseeing and number of people. To get a custom quote of this tour, please email us at info@italy4Real.com and ask for a custom Big 3 quote.

All prices are per person in Euro dollars to avoid any hidden exchange rate charges. Euro rate is locked at time of full payment

Use our Currency Converter to convert Euro to US Dollars HERE