Discover the timeless beauty of Italy in winter on a journey through Venice, Florence and Rome. From Venice’s atmospheric canals to Florence’s Renaissance streets and Rome’s magnificent landmarks, experience three iconic cities at a more relaxed pace. Travel comfortably by high-speed train with private transfers, explore Venice with an included 48-hour vaporetto pass, then join expert-guided walking tours in Florence and Rome. With free time in each city, enjoy a balance of guided cultural discovery and the freedom to savour Italy’s winter atmosphere at your own pace.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Venice: Enjoy Venice in a different light during the winter months, when the soft seasonal light and quieter canals reveal the city's most intimate side.
Florence: Experience the enchanting atmosphere of Florence in winter, when its Renaissance streets, historic piazzas and elegant architecture take on a special charm.
Rome: Discover the timeless charm of Rome during the winter season, when cooler days and a quieter atmosphere offer a more relaxed way to explore the city's magnificent historic landmarks, ancient ruins and artistic treasures.
Day 1: ARRIVAL VENICE
Your Italian journey begins in Venice, where you’ll be welcomed by our assistant at the airport or railway station. From there, enjoy a private water taxi transfer to your hotel, travelling through the canals for a memorable first glimpse of the city. After checking in, spend the afternoon exploring Venice at your own pace. Wander through narrow streets, cross picturesque bridges and make your way towards St. Mark’s Square to admire its remarkable architecture. Continue towards the Rialto area, where you can browse local shops and stop at a traditional café for a warm drink or a Venetian pastry. As evening falls, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the canals and discover the city's atmospheric beauty after dark.
Overnight in Venice.
Day 2: VENICE: DISCOVERING BY VAPORETTO
Spend a full day exploring Venice with your included 48-hour Vaporetto pass. Travel along the Grand Canal, admire the historic palaces lining the water and discover the city’s most famous landmarks at your own pace. Visit the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square, then venture into neighbourhoods such as Cannaregio and Dorsoduro to discover quieter canals, historic churches and local cafés. The winter season offers a different perspective on Venice, with softer light, cooler air and opportunities to enjoy its streets at a more leisurely pace. Alternatively, take a vaporetto to Murano to discover its glassmaking heritage or continue to Burano, known for its colourful houses and traditional lace-making. In the evening, you can settle into a traditional restaurant and sample Venetian specialities such as cicchetti in a local bacaro.
Overnight in Venice.
Day 3: VENICE – FLORENCE (2.5hrs by train; included)
After breakfast and check-out, take your private water taxi to Venice railway station. Board the second-class high-speed train to Florence, enjoying a comfortable journey through the Italian countryside. On arrival at Santa Maria Novella railway station, a private transfer will take you to your hotel. Once you have checked in, begin exploring Florence’s historic centre on foot at your own pace. Make your way towards Piazza del Duomo to admire the cathedral’s striking architecture, continue to Piazza della Signoria and stroll towards Ponte Vecchio. Discover the elegant streets, historic buildings and artisan workshops that give Florence its distinctive character. As the temperature drops in the evening, take a break in a traditional café or enjoy Tuscan cuisine in a cosy trattoria.
Overnight in Florence.
Day 4: FLORENCE: A JOURNEY INTO THE HEART OF THE RENAISSANCE
After breakfast, get ready to discover the timeless beauty of Florence, the enchanting capital of Tuscany and the birthplace of the Renaissance. Embark on a fascinating half-day walking tour through the city's historic streets, where every square, palace and monument tells a story of art, genius and extraordinary heritage. Accompanied by your expert guide, immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of medieval Florence, stroll past charming artisan workshops and follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest artists in history, including Leonardo da Vinci, Botticelli and Michelangelo. Admire the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, crowned by Brunelleschi's iconic dome, together with the elegant Baptistery and Giotto's Bell Tower, masterpieces that define Florence's unforgettable skyline. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, the historic heart of Florentine political life since the 14th century. Here, art and history come together in a spectacular open-air setting. Discover the sculptures surrounding Palazzo Vecchio, including the replica of Michelangelo's David, symbolising the strength and independence of the Florentine Republic, as well as the impressive Fountain of Neptune and the celebrated Loggia dei Lanzi, an extraordinary open-air gallery featuring masterpieces such as Perseus with the Head of Medusa and The Rape of the Sabine Women. The walk culminates at the iconic Ponte Vecchio, one of Florence's most beloved landmarks. Once home to the city's traditional meat and fish markets, today it is renowned for its historic goldsmith workshops, where generations of Florentine artisans have preserved the art of fine jewellery making. Take a moment to admire the views over the Arno River, explore the elegant jewellery boutiques and perhaps find a unique souvenir to treasure as a memory of your time in Florence.
Overnight in Florence.
Day 5: FLORENCE – ROME (1hr by train; included)
After breakfast and check-out, your private transfer will take you to Florence Santa Maria Novella railway station. Board the high-speed train to Rome, and on arrival at Roma Termini, a private transfer will take you to your hotel. After checking in, head out to discover the Eternal City. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the historic centre, visiting Piazza Navona, the Pantheon area and the Trevi Fountain. Admire Rome’s grand architecture and discover its network of picturesque streets, where historic churches, traditional shops and inviting cafés create endless opportunities to pause and explore. In the evening, choose a traditional Roman restaurant and sample local specialities.
Overnight in Rome.
Day 6: ROME: THE GLORY OF ANCIENT ROME & THE COLOSSEUM
Get ready to step back in time and uncover the fascinating history of the Eternal City! Embark on an unforgettable half-day walking tour dedicated to the grandeur of Ancient Rome, exploring two of its most iconic landmarks: the Roman Forum and the legendary Colosseum. Meet your expert local guide at the designated meeting point and join your small group for an extraordinary journey through centuries of history, captivating stories and fascinating legends. Your adventure begins at the Roman Forum, once the vibrant political, social and religious heart of the Roman Empire. Walk along the legendary Via Sacra, the ancient road once used by victorious Roman generals during their triumphant processions towards the Capitol. As you explore this remarkable archaeological site, admire the remains of ancient basilicas, monumental triumphal arches, honorary columns and historic marketplaces that once witnessed the daily life and greatest events of the Roman Empire. The highlight of your experience awaits as you step inside the magnificent Colosseum, the world's most iconic amphitheatre. Marvel at its impressive architecture, monumental arches and extraordinary engineering, including the ingenious velarium system, designed to shelter thousands of spectators from the sun and rain. As you stand within this legendary arena, let your guide transport you back to the days of gladiatorial battles, spectacular public spectacles and roaring crowds. Discover the stories of the brave gladiators, the secrets of the amphitheatre and the remarkable ingenuity that made the Colosseum one of the greatest architectural achievements of the ancient world.
Note: As an alternative, you can opt for the Vatican Museums Tour with the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica instead of the Colosseum Tour with the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill.
Overnight in Rome.
Day 7: ROME DEPARTURE
Enjoy breakfast and check out of your hotel. At the agreed time, your private transfer will take you to Rome Fiumicino Airport for your departure. Leave Italy with wonderful memories of its winter charm, from Venice’s atmospheric canals to Florence’s Renaissance beauty and Rome’s timeless landmarks.
