Florence and Venice from Rome: 2-Day Semi-Private Tour by Train

Travel to Venice and Florence from Rome with this 2-day semi-private train tour for $1,213.17 per person. Spanning just two days, this tour offers an immersive experience through Italy’s most famous cities, complete with overnight accommodation in Florence and guided visits to top landmarks. With a rating of 5.0 based on 2 reviews, it’s praised for knowledgeable guides and well-paced itineraries, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive yet manageable escape.

Travelers should be prepared for long train rides—about 3 hours 45 minutes to Venice and 2 hours back from Florence—and a full schedule of walking and sightseeing. The tour is best suited for individuals with moderate physical fitness who want to pack as much as possible into a short timeframe. While the gondola ride is optional, it offers a charming glimpse into Venice’s iconic tradition. This tour balances structured exploration with free time for personal discovery.

Key Points

• Visit two iconic Italian cities—Venice and Florence—in just two days from Rome
• Includes train travel, hotel stay in Florence, and guided tours at major landmarks
• Expert guide ensures an informative and engaging experience
• Highlights include Venice’s Grand Canal, Piazza San Marco, and Florence’s Duomo and Ponte Vecchio
• Tour capacity is limited to 12 travelers, maintaining a semi-private group setting
• Optional gondola ride adds to Venice’s charm but is not included in the price

How This Tour Combines Train Travel and City Highlights

This 2-day tour uses high-speed trains to maximize sightseeing time, starting early from Rome with a pick-up service to the train station. The first day involves nearly 4 hours of travel to Venice, where an expert guide leads a walking tour through the famous bridges and canals. The gondola ride is available as an optional extra, giving a classic Venetian experience.

In Venice, notable stops include the Ponte di Rialto, Piazza San Marco, and the Basilica di San Marco. Highlights such as the Doge’s Palace, Campanile di San Marco, and the Bridge of Sighs are all included, offering the essence of Venice’s architecture and history. The Grand Canal is explored via water bus, giving insight into the city’s unique layout and waterways.

The second day involves arriving in Florence in the late afternoon, where guests stay overnight in a 4-star hotel. The following morning features a full day of sightseeing with a professional guide, visiting Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, Piazza della Signoria, and the Ponte Vecchio. A visit to the Accademia Gallery includes seeing Michelangelo’s David, one of Italy’s most renowned sculptures.

Venice’s Must-See Landmarks on the Tour

The Ponte di Rialto is the oldest of Venice’s Grand Canal bridges and historically central to commerce. The Piazza San Marco is called “the most beautiful hall in Europe” by Napoleon, showcasing the Basilica, Palazzo Ducale, and the Campanile.

The Basilica di San Marco impresses with its blend of Byzantine and oriental artistic influences. Its interior and exterior are highlights, reflecting Venice’s wealth during its peak. Nearby, the Doge’s Palace offers a look into the political and architectural history of Venice, with its distinctive Gothic style.

The Campanile di San Marco is a towering beacon at nearly 99 meters, providing panoramic views of Venice. The Bridge of Sighs connects the Palazzo Ducale to the prison, historically used for prisoner transport but now a romantic symbol of love.

The Grand Canal forms the city’s main waterway, with water buses providing a scenic route through the city’s inverted “S” shape. The optional gondola tour offers a traditional ride, perfect for capturing Venice’s timeless charm.

Florence’s Key Landmarks and Artistic Treasures

In Florence, the full-day itinerary allows ample time to explore Renaissance art and architecture. The Florence Cathedral, with its dome by Brunelleschi, dominates the skyline. The Baptistery of San Giovanni and Giotto’s Bell Tower add to the city’s architectural splendor.

The Piazza della Signoria serves as Florence’s political and social hub, home to sculptures like Michelangelo’s David (replica outside, original inside the Accademia). The Ponte Vecchio is famous for its goldsmith shops and the Vasari Corridor overhead, offering a glimpse into Medici-era history.

The Accademia Gallery houses Michelangelo’s David, along with other sculptures and paintings by Florentine artists. The artistic richness of Florence makes it a must-visit for lovers of Renaissance culture.

Logistics, Group Size, and Comfort

This tour departs from centrally located hotels or apartments in Rome at 6:30 am. The pick-up service simplifies the start, leading to train travel in a small group of up to 12 participants. The tour includes second-class high-speed train tickets (with an option for first class) and overnight accommodation in Florence with breakfast.

The professional tour assistant provides guidance and on-the-ground support, including a 2-hour guided tour in Florence. The tour also offers an emergency contact number, operational via WhatsApp. It’s designed for moderate physical fitness, with walking and some stairs at landmarks.

This well-structured schedule balances guided visits with free time, especially in Florence for personal exploration or shopping. Food, drinks, and tips are not included, allowing flexibility for guests to choose local eateries.

A Closer Look at the Stops and Their Significance

Venice’s stops cover both architectural landmarks and cultural symbols. The Rialto Market has been active since 1097, reflecting Venice’s historic trade routes. The Piazza San Marco is iconic for its basilica and bell tower, while the Bridge of Sighs offers a romantic legend linked to its history as a prison corridor.

Florence’s highlights include the Duomo, showcasing Brunelleschi’s dome, and the Ponte Vecchio, which has housed goldsmith shops since the Medici era. The Piazza della Signoria hosts sculptures that narrate Florence’s political past, and the Accademia Gallery presents Michelangelo’s David in its original home.

The walking tour in Florence provides context to the city’s artistic achievements and urban layout, enriching the experience beyond just viewing landmarks.

Value and Considerations for Travelers

The all-inclusive nature of this tour, with hotel stay, train tickets, and guided visits, offers great value for those eager to see both Venice and Florence without the hassle of separate bookings. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed pace.

However, the full schedule means long days of walking and moving between attractions. The optional gondola ride is a charming addition but comes as an extra expense. Travelers should also note that food and drinks are not included, giving flexibility to enjoy local cuisine at their leisure.

The pricing reflects the convenience and comprehensiveness of the package, suitable for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a structured overview of Northern Italy’s highlights.

Florence and Venice from Rome: Perfect for a Quick Cultural Escape

This 2-day tour stands out for its efficiency in covering major sights in Venice and Florence, ideal for short stays or first-time visitors seeking a balanced mix of guided exploration and free time. The knowledgeable guides, rated highly in reviews, enhance the experience with insightful commentary and local tips.

The hotel stay in Florence, combined with train travel, offers a relaxed overnight experience after a day of sightseeing. The pacing of stops ensures that guests do not feel rushed, even with a packed schedule.

While the long travel hours might be demanding, the overall itinerary is well-crafted to make the most of limited time, providing a comprehensive snapshot of Italy’s artistic and architectural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this tour include transportation between Venice and Florence?
Yes, train tickets are included for traveling between Rome, Venice, Florence, and back to Rome.

Is the gondola ride part of the standard tour package?
No, the gondola ride is optional and not included in the base price.

What type of accommodation is provided in Florence?
Guests stay in a 4-star hotel in Florence with breakfast included.

How large are the groups on this tour?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a semi-private experience.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, allowing guests to explore local eateries independently.

What landmarks will I see in Venice?
You will visit Ponte di Rialto, Piazza San Marco, San Marco Basilica, Doge’s Palace, Campanile, Bridge of Sighs, and Grand Canal.

How do I confirm pickup details?
The pick-up time and location are confirmed the day before via WhatsApp or emergency phone, based on provided contact details.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are allowed only when accompanied by an adult; specific age restrictions are not mentioned.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 6 days in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes and a moderate physical fitness level are recommended; no specific items are listed.

This Florence and Venice from Rome tour offers a compact yet thorough way to experience Italy’s most beloved cities within just two days, combining guided expertise with free time to enjoy each city at your own pace.