8-Days Best of Italy Trip from Rome with Florence and Venice

This 8-day Best of Italy tour from Rome offers an immersive experience through some of Italy’s most iconic destinations, all for $1,971.96 per person. Starting and ending in Rome, this guided trip covers Florence, Venice, Siena, Assisi, Bologna, and Padua, blending expertly arranged logistics with free time for personal exploration. With seven hotel nights and planned activities, it suits travelers eager to see Italy’s art, architecture, and cuisine without the hassle of planning every detail.

The tour features guided visits to major landmarks, such as the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, Venice’s Piazza San Marco, and the medieval towns of Assisi and Siena. It also includes transport by coach, daily breakfasts, and several regional meals, making it a convenient way to experience Italy. Notably, the tour is fast-paced and involves extensive walking, making it best suited for those with moderate physical fitness.

Key Points

• Seamless logistics with hotel stays, transport, and some meals included
• Guided visits to key sites like the Vatican Museums, Florence, and Venice
• Includes free time in several cities for personal exploration
• Comfortable coach travel through Tuscany, Umbria, and Veneto regions
• Tour duration is 8 days with 7 nights in 4-star hotels
• Group size limited to 35 travelers, with reviews noting some issues with large groups or accommodation

Starting in Rome: City Highlights and Evening Walking Tour

The tour begins in Rome, where travelers are picked up from Ciampino or Fiumicino airports and transferred in an air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi onboard. After checking into the hotel, an evening guided walk takes in Rome’s iconic landmarks, including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and Jewish Ghetto. During low season 2024-25, this will be replaced by a Hop On Hop Off bus ticket.

This initial exploration introduces the city’s vibrant atmosphere while remaining flexible for those arriving early. The walk is brief—around two hours—and offers a gentle start before full days of sightseeing. Travelers should note that the first day involves no included meals and requires self-navigation back to the hotel after the walk.

Exploring Assisi and Siena: Medieval Towns and Artistic Treasures

On day two, the tour ventures into Umbria and Tuscany, starting with Assisi. Here, visitors have free time to explore the St. Francis Basilica, renowned for frescos by Giotto and Cimabue. The town’s medieval walls and tranquil atmosphere make it a peaceful first stop. Lunch is not included but can be enjoyed in local restaurants.

Next, the group heads to Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for the Piazza del Campo, where the Palio horse race takes place. With about two hours allocated, travelers can stroll or take photos of the shell-shaped square and its historic buildings. The pace is brisk but allows glimpses of Siena’s charm before moving on.

The day concludes with check-in at a hotel in Florence, where dinner and rest await. This mix of guided visits and free time offers a balanced taste of Italy’s medieval history and Renaissance art.

Full Day in Florence: Art, Architecture, and Optional Pisa Visit

Day three is dedicated entirely to Florence, giving plenty of time to soak in Renaissance treasures. The morning begins with a guided tour of the city’s highlights—the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza Santa Croce. The guide shares insights into Florence’s artistic legacy, making the city’s monuments more meaningful.

For lunch, travelers dine at a traditional Tuscan restaurant in Piazza Santa Croce. The afternoon offers free time for self-guided exploration or an optional trip to Pisa. The Pisa visit includes the Piazza dei Miracoli, the Leaning Tower, and the Baptistery, all essential sights of Italy’s marine republics.

Dinner in Florence is at leisure, offering a chance to enjoy local cuisine. This day balances guided sightseeing with personal discovery, perfect for art lovers and history buffs alike.

Traveling from Florence to Bologna and Padua: Architectural Elegance and Student Vibes

On day four, the journey continues, starting with a guided tour of Bologna. The city’s historic center features Piazza Maggiore, Palazzo Re Enzo, and the basilica of San Petronio. The elegant arcades and medieval structures highlight Bologna’s role as an educational hub.

In the afternoon, the tour moves to Padua, known for the Sant’Antonio Basilica and the tranquil Prato della Valle. Travelers can enjoy free time to walk along the river and explore the charming streets. Breakfast and lunch are included earlier in the day, while dinner is on your own in Venice later.

Arriving in Venice in the late afternoon, the group checks into Hotel Delfino in Venice Mestre for an overnight stay, preparing for the next day’s exploration of the Floating City.

Discovering Venice’s Landmarks and Local Flavors

Day five in Venice begins with a private water-taxi transfer to Piazza San Marco. The guide leads the group through Doge’s Palace, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Bell Tower. You’ll enjoy a spritz or prosecco with cicchetti—Venice’s tapas-style snacks—while soaking in the views.

The afternoon is flexible, with free time to wander Venice’s canals and hidden alleys. The city’s unique charm lies in its historic architecture and atmosphere, which can be appreciated at leisure after the guided tour.

This experience emphasizes Venice’s romantic ambiance while providing a taste of its culinary delights and iconic sights.

Visiting Montepulciano and the Tuscan Wine Region

On day six, the tour departs Venice for Tuscany, focusing on Montepulciano, famous for Nobile wine and its medieval streets. The stop includes lunch in a local restaurant, featuring regional cuisine, and free time to explore the town’s art and architecture.

Later, the journey returns to Rome, where the group checks into a hotel for the night. This segment combines scenic drives, wine tasting, and cultural insights into Tuscany’s renowned wines and towns.

Exploring the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel in Rome

Day seven centers on Rome’s Vatican, where skip-the-line tickets grant access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel. The guide walks you through the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Maps, and Raphael’s Rooms, ending at the Sistine Chapel to appreciate Michelangelo’s masterpiece.

The tour concludes around St. Peter’s Square, leaving the rest of the day free for personal exploration or additional tours. The last overnight in Rome offers a chance to revisit favorite sights or relax before departure.

Final Day: Departure and Airport Transfer

The tour wraps up on day eight with breakfast at the hotel and a transfer to Rome’s airports. The logistics are straightforward, with one-hour transfer times, ensuring travelers depart comfortably. The included hotel stays and specified meals aim to make the trip both enjoyable and stress-free.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 8-day guided journey is ideal for travelers wanting a rundown of Italy’s highlights without the hassle of planning. It offers a good mix of guided tours and free time, perfect for those interested in art, history, and cuisine.

However, the fast pace and extensive walking mean it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. The group size can reach up to 35 travelers, which may sometimes affect the intimacy of the experience.

While the logistics are well-organized, some reviews point to communication issues and accommodation concerns in Venice, which are worth considering if comfort is a priority. Still, experts like guides and drivers are generally praised for their professionalism and knowledge.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers hotel accommodation for seven nights, breakfast every day, three lunches, two dinners, guided tours, transportation by coach, airport transfers in Rome, and a spritz & cicchetti experience in Venice.

Are meals included?
Yes, seven breakfasts, three lunches, and two dinners are included. Additional food and drinks are at travelers’ own expense.

How long are the guided tours?
Guided visits typically last several hours, including the Vatican Museums and Florence. The Vatican tour includes skip-the-line tickets and lasts around 8 hours.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
Given the extensive walking and strict schedule, it is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues. The tour involves fast-paced sightseeing and large group sizes.

What are the accommodation options?
Hotels are 4-star, including St. Martin in Rome, Hotel Raffaello in Florence, and Hotel Delfino in Venice Mestre. Some reviews highlight concerns about the Venice stay.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour operates as a group experience with a fixed schedule. For customization, a private or FIT package may be preferable.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations are full refundable if canceled at least 6 days before the start date. Cancellations closer to the date may incur fees.

How many people join this tour?
The maximum group size is 35 travelers, aiming for a lively but manageable experience.

Is there an option for bilingual guides?
Yes, the tour operates in English, Spanish, Portuguese, and French during different seasons.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, travel documents, and any personal essentials. Be prepared for extensive walking and weather variations.

This 8-day Best of Italy tour balances guided sightseeing with free time, making it suitable for those who want a structured yet flexible Italian adventure. It highlights key cities, landmarks, and culinary experiences, providing a memorable journey through Italy’s most celebrated regions.