Compare Italy by Rail by Friendly Planet vs Premium Tuscany by Intrepid Travel
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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4.5 | Great
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| Duration | 8 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 1,749 | $ 6,112 |
| Price Per Day | $ 219 | $ 764 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Self-guided tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Ground transport included |
| Activities |
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N/A |
| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Who doesn't want to spend time in Italy? Here is an opportunity to visit three of the most intriguing and iconic cities on this independent package. Spend two nights in each city, Venice, Florence and Rome, and get to know them at your own pace. Travel in comfort between the cities by Italo Rail with reserved seats. Rub shoulders with the people of Italy, and the ancient, the medieval, the Renaissance, and the modern worlds. In Venice, your hotel is conveniently located in Mestre, giving you easy access to the city, where you can explore on foot or by water taxi. Be sure not to miss a gondola ride or a coffee at St. Mark's Square. In Florence, see the birth of the Renaissance, while admiring the Duomo or the statue of David. In Rome, experience the Eternal City and perhaps visit the Vatican and the Colosseum. All this for an amazing price, as irresistible as Italy itself! |
Uncover the warmth and richness of Italian culture as you journey from Rome to Venice on an eight-day Premium adventure. Travel through the rustic heart of Tuscany as you seek out culinary delights and tucked-away treasures among the rolling countryside. Explore the wonders of Venice’s Piazza San Marco, Pisa’s Leaning Tower and Rome’s Colosseum with an expert local leader. From ancient monuments and lively cities to sprawling vineyards and traditional Tuscan cuisine – this adventure will make memorable moments for both the Italian novice and maestro. |
Day 1: Depart USA.
Your exciting trip to Italy begins today as you depart for Venice on an overnight flight.
Day 2: Venice.
Accommodations: Best Western Hotel Bologna/Hilton Garden Inn Venice Mestre San Giuliano/Antony Hotel/ Hilton Grand Hotel Molino Stucky.
Upon arrival in Venice make your way independently to your hotel located on the mainland in Venice Mestre, a short train ride from the main island of Venice. Your hotel is conveniently located near the Ponte della Libertà, a road bridge that connects the mainland to the historical center of the Venice islands. Enjoy the balance of the day to relax and unwind and enjoy the facilities of the hotel. Venture out for your first exploration of Mestre and Venice.
Day 3: Venice.
Full day at leisure to explore Venice on your own. You can explore the canals by water taxi, without a doubt the best way to get around Venice, or meander through the slowly sinking streets at your own pace. Walk the narrow streets and alleys admiring the Venetian's unique way of life until you reach Piazza San Marco or, St. Mark's Square.
St. Mark's Square forms the political, social, and religious center of Venice. Visit St. Mark's Basilica with its great arches, marble decoration, the Romanesque carvings that surround the central doorway, and looming above, the four horse statues which preside proudly over the whole piazza.
Afterward, you may also visit the Doge's Palace, once the residence of the supreme authority of the Republic of Venice. A museum since 1923, you will see the Venetian Gothic exterior, the courtyard, the Museo dell'Opera, the Doge's Apartments, the Institutional Chambers, and the Bridge of Sighs leading to the prison.
Lastly, Be sure to take a water taxi to the islands of Murano and Burano, world renowned for their distinct style of glass artwork. You will be able to view a glassblowing demonstration and a gallery featuring some of the artist's finest work.
Breakfast provided.
Day 4: Venice & Florence.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodations: Hotel Club/Hotel Ambasciatori/The Style Florence.
This morning, independently make your way to the Santa Lucia Rail Station, and travel by train from Venice to Florence. Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel centrally located nearby the train station. Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, and has much to offer in the realm of fine arts. View architectural accomplishments, such as Santa Maria del Fiore, the world's largest masonry dome or pay a visit to Michelangelo's David at the Accademia Gallery or visit one of the world's greatest art museums the, Uffizi Gallery. Or, simply take a stroll along the River Arno.
Day 5:Florence.
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day of leisure in Florence. Sample some of the finest gelatos, shop the boutiques or visit a local market.
Day 6: Florence & Rome.
Accommodations: Hotel Morgana/ The Inn at the Spanish Steps
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, make your own way to the Santa Maria Novella railway station, and board your train from Florence to Rome. Upon arrival at either Ostiense or Tiburtina railway stations, make your way independently to your centrally located hotel. All of Rome is a living, breathing museum from the Colosseum to Piazza Navona and the Spanish Steps. Be sure to visit The Vatican and witness Michelangelo's masterpiece at the Sistine Chapel. A visit to Rome is not complete without visiting the Roman Forum and the view from Palatine Hill, the centermost of the Seven Hills of Rome and one of the most ancient parts of the city.
Day 7: Rome.
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day of leisure in Rome. Sample delicious fresh pasta and pizza, or spend some time people watching at a local café.
Day 8: Rome/USA.
Meals: Breakfast
Your memorable journey to Italy comes to an end as you make your way to the airport for your return flight. Arrive in the USA later today.
Day 1 Rome
Welcome to Rome! Enjoy a complimentary transfer to your hotel and settle in. If you arrive with time to spare, the city’s magnificent buildings are best appreciated on foot, so perhaps wander in search of an espresso. Your Italian adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you will meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Once the formalities are out of the way, get your first taste of Italy over an included dinner with your group at an excellent local restaurant. Sitting down to dinner in Rome means experiencing generations of culinary know-how and timeless traditional recipes. Once your leader introduces you to some of Italy’s best dishes, you’ll understand why this country is so renowned for great food.
Day 2 Rome
From incredible ancient monuments to glamourous restaurants and boutiques, Rome is a city of great beauty and diversity. Today join a private guide for a trip back in time. Marvel at the Spanish steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona before reaching Campo de Fiori, where a local fresh produce market has been held since 1869. Join your tour leader for a quick stop at a local bar for a granita - an iced Italian espresso and a must when in Rome. Next, visit a local aristocrat at his home close to the Campo de Fiori. Much of the apartment is still in its original state and features a stunningly painted ceiling. Find art and artifacts casually displayed throughout the rooms and chat with the energetic owner before sitting down for an included lunch in the dining room. The afternoon is free for you to explore as you please – perhaps take the chance to follow in the footsteps of gladiators and Roman emperors with a visit to the iconic Colosseum. Please note that tickets should be booked in advance, and before the beginning of your trip.
Day 3 Siena / Monteriggioni / San Gimignano Region
Today you’ll take a private vehicle to the gorgeous city of Siena, where your leader will show you the most interesting sights on an orientation walk. At the city’s heart is Piazza del Campo – home to the biannual Palio horse race, and nearby is the stunning Siena Cathedral. Next you’ll visit Monteriggioni – a charming medieval walled town. Over a dozen towers are spread throughout the town, once used to defend Sienese territory from the Florentines. You will have time to explore this tiny hilltop spot before arriving at your Feature Stay accommodation near San Gimignano. This country hotel with cinematic views of a tree-studded landscape and a refreshing outdoor pool is a fine spot to unwind. Tonight, indulge in an included gourmet dinner at your hotel with your group – the food is made with local ingredients and pays homage to traditional Tuscan dishes, with a modern twist.
Day 4 San Gimignano Region
Start the day with a visit to San Gimignano – the 'Town of Fine Towers'. Explore the medieval Old Town centre and its fine Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with your leader on hand to answer any questions inspired by your explorations. This region is also renowned for its ancient Vernaccia grapes, which are the basis for one of Tuscany's finest white wines. Your group will visit a local agriturismo, where you’ll explore the vineyards and sample some of their celebrated wine, before enjoying an included lunch featuring regional cheese, fine olive oil and bruschetta. Return to your Feature Stay accommodation for another delicious dinner.
Day 5 Pisa / Lucca / Florence
Today you’ll visit Pisa. It’s not always possible to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa due to its precarious state, but as your leader shares the history of this legendary building, you will have the opportunity to photograph it from the ground. Your next stop is historic Lucca, one of Italy’s most beautiful but underrated cities, where you’ll take a short walk along the city’s beautifully preserved Renaissance walls. From here you’ll take the short journey to Florence where the evening is yours to walk the cobbled streets, eat gelato and soak up the unmistakenly Tuscan atmosphere.
Day 6 Florence
This morning join a private guided walk of Florence you will earn about its Glorious past and the notable families that made Florence an important centre for culture, economy and politics. Your tour includes a visit of the Galleria dell ‘Accademia, an art museum renowned for its collection of sculptures, including the iconic statue of David by Michelangelo. Enjoy a free afternoon at your own pace – ask your leader for some local tips on the best way to spend the day. Visiting the Uffizi while you are here is highly recommended – it is one of the oldest galleries in the world, and a building of great beauty. And be sure to head to Piazzale Michelangelo for sweeping views of Florence’s timeless skyline. Sample some of the culinary delicacies on offer from across Tuscany, with dishes known for their freshness, simplicity and quality. Olive oil, beans and herbs are a feature here. Two standout dishes of the region are bistecca alla fiorentina, a large steak sliced on the bone and shared between multiple diners, and ribollita, a simple, hearty soup of bread, vegetables, and beans. Panforte is the signature sweet treat.
Day 7 Venice
In the morning, head to the railway station and take a high-speed train to Venice. Upon arrival your leader will take you on an orientation walk so you can get acquainted with the city’s maze of canals and learn about its unique history, showing you some extraordinary views over the roofs of Venice. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore. The Grand Canal, the quaint shopfronts that line the Rialto Bridge and the Piazza and Basilica di San Marco are all worthy sights to visit, or simply meander around the tiny, cobbled streets and discover the beautiful markets, cafes, galleries and churches. A Venetian gondola ride down the canals is a must, as is a taste of the region’s dessert speciality, tiramisu. Later in the evening join your tour leader for a nice, included Venetian dinner.
Day 8 Venice
With no activities planned for today, your trip comes to an end after breakfast. Those looking to extend their stay can arrange additional nights' accommodation at the time of booking the trip (subject to availability).
