Drive through some of Italy's most iconic locations on this six-day tour that takes you through Florence, Siena, Verona, Venice, Sirmione and Milan. Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence breathes history at every corner, while Venice will enchant you with its shimmering canals.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Florence: a captivating Italy destination that Mark Twain once described as a “city of dreams.” With its abundance of timeless art, rustic Tuscan cuisine, incredible boutique shopping, and mesmerizing views at every turn, the city of Florence is nothing short of spectacular.
Venice: known also as the “City of Canals,” “The Floating City,” and “Serenissima,” is arguably one of Italy's most picturesque cities. With its winding canals, striking architecture, and beautiful bridges, Venice is a popular destination for travel.
Milan: one of the most important cities of the fashion world, is also considered a leading alpha global city, in the fields of art, design, education, entertainment and tourism and many more.
Day 1: ARRIVAL FLORENCE – SIENA – FLORENCE (170km – 2.5hrs)
Upon arrival at Florence Airport get onto your transfer to the hotel. Check in and get ready to meet your driver to discover Siena, the beautiful medieval city renowned for the Palio horses race. Discover along the streets, Palazzo Salimbeni, built in the 14th century. Visit the main square of the town, Piazza del Campo, a beautiful seashell shaped square, where the famous Palio horse race is held every year on July 2nd and August 16th. Do not miss the chance to discover the impressive facade of the Cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary, covered with colorful local marbles, where you can admire several artists such as Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini. Before you go, don’t forget to taste the typical local dishes such as “Pici” homemade pasta and the almond biscuits “ricciarelli”, symbols of the town. Return to Florence and spend the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Florence.
Day 2: FLORENCE
After breakfast meet our local guide to visit the fascinating backstreets of mysterious Florence: from Piazza del Duomo, with its Baptistery and Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral to Ponte Vecchio, from Piazza Della Signoria with its Palazzo Vecchio and Loggia dell’Orcagna up to the central avenues paved with stone, where you will find authentic masterpieces whenever you direct your gaze. An intense and concentrated tour in the very heart of Florence will uncover the many wonderful “must see” places of interest. Free time for lunch and in the afternoon your tour leader will accompany you to discover the excellence of traditional local productions. Visit one of the most famous jewellery where you can admire the collections of Florentine goldsmith masters; walk around the San Lorenzo leather market that will offer you high quality products, made with high-grade leather and processed according to the most traditional methods giving life to the classic elegance of Florentine lathers bags, shoes and jackets. Finally, visit an old perfume workshop which still produces fragrances using the medieval monks' methods and recipes.
Overnight in Florence.
Day 3: FLORENCE – VERONA – VENICE (350km – 4hrs)
Enjoy an American buffet breakfast at the hotel, before checking out to depart to Venice. Along the way you will stop in Verona. Explore the streets of the historical center, that was proclaimed UNESCO World Heritage site. Be fascinated by the gem of the city: the ancient Roman arena built in 30 AD. It is very well preserved and can host over 30,000 people. After taking some photos of the arena, head to the former home of the famed opera singer, Maria Callas. Then move on to Juliet's House, the structure that inspired Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Wander back to Piazza Bra and have time for lunch. Next, proceed to Venice for check-in and get ready for a walking tour of Venice. Meet your local guide who will introduce you to the most important buildings such as the Doge’s Palace, the Campanile, the Clock tower and the Library. Here you will be told about the birth of the city and its glorious history. Walk in the hidden Venice, to admire its back alleys, lovely canals and picturesque squares. Reach Rialto bridge over the Grand Canal: the heart of the city with its market area. At the end of the visit have a lovely walk to your hotel and enjoy a typical dinner in a local restaurant (not included).
Overnight in Venice.
Day 4: VENICE – MURANO – BURANO – VENICE (2hrs by boats)
After breakfast at the hotel ride a boat with your assistant across the Venetian Lagoon to the colorful island of Murano to get an inside peek into the world-famous glass-blowing factories of this island. Get a glassmaking demonstration from a master craftsman, and enjoy time browsing the factory showroom featuring finished works of art. Next, visit Burano for a walk and shopping. Afterwards, get on a boat back to Venice and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure.
Overnight in Venice.
Day 5: VENICE – SIRMIONE – MILAN (290km – 4hrs)
After buffet breakfast at the hotel, check out and depart for Sirmione well known as the Pearl of Lake Garda, "the gem of all the peninsulas", as the poet Catullus wrote. The visit of the village commences with the suggestive Scala Castle of medieval times, built at the end of the 13th century by the Lords of Verona. Along narrow and close medieval streets one reaches the Parish Church of S. Maria which contains many images and paintings to be admired together with different altars and precious 18th century works of marble. Slightly uphill, one reaches the S. Salvatore Church, which dates to the 8th century. At last, after admiring the park of the prestigious and luxurious 5 star Hotel Villa Cortine and the nearby Villa of Maria Callas, you arrive at the entrance to the Grotte di Catullo. This area is the most important archaeological area of the entire Lombardy region with imposing remains of what has once been a luxurious Roman Villa on Lake Garda. Next drive to Milan and check in at the hotel.
Overnight in Milan.
Day 6: MILAN DEPARTURE
After breakfast, at the agreed time meet your driver and drive to Milan Malpensa Airport for your return flight.
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Italy. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sun glasses, a hat, and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.
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