Grand Adventure: Rome, Venice, Tuscany & the Italian Riviera
Gondola Ride
Cinque Terre Rail Adventure
Tuscany Wine Tasting
Leaning Tower of Pisa & Field of Miracles
Vatican Museums
Discover Italy’s most spectacular cities and top attractions on an unforgettable Grand Adventure. Begin with a tour of historic Padua, then experience the romanticism and grand waterways of Venice before immersing yourself in Tuscany’s charming countryside. Admire the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence, with its famous art treasures such as Michelangelo’s David and explore the iconic buildings in Vatican City, including the Sistine Chapel. Stop in the medieval hill towns of Volterra, Cortona, and San Gimignano to learn about their ancient history. Gaze upon Rome’s archaeological masterpieces like the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Trevi Fountain, then marvel at Pisa’s world-renowned Leaning Tower. Travel into the heart of the Italian Riviera for picturesque views as you venture through the colorful fishing villages of Cinque Terre and quaint Portofino, the Pearl of the Italian Riviera. Celebrate your travel memories with new friends as the trip concludes in Milan with a wonderful Farewell Dinner.
Trip overview may vary by departure.
Highlights
The Italian Riviera
Cinque Terre, meaning “Five Lands,” is a collection of five coastal villages perched on terraced hillsides high above the Ligurian coast. Together, they make up a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s famous for its natural and cultural history. Arrive by rail on the Cinque Terre Express to visit the villages of Riomaggiore, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare. Discover pastel and brightly painted buildings, picturesque harbors filled with traditional fishing boats, winding cliff pathways, and quaint, cobbled streets. Walk along clear-water beaches, or sip a local dry white specialty wine from a patio overlooking the sea.
Rome
Formerly the heart of one of the most powerful ancient empires, Rome is now the enchanting capital of Italy and renowned for its famous historical sites that draw in tourists from all over. Marvel at the largest amphitheatre ever built and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, the Colosseum. Learn about its fascinating history and become immersed in the past while setting foot on the grounds that mighty gladiators once walked. We also visit the grand Roman Forum that was previously the governmental, financial, and religious center of the city. Be amazed by the open-air public meetings, criminal trials, and more that took place long ago.
Florence
Known as the “Jewel of the Renaissance,” Florence is especially recognized for its art, history, and architecture. Admire one of the most famous sculptures in the world, Michelangelo’s David, which he finished before the age of 30! Shop at the medieval Ponte Vecchio Bridge, astonishingly spared during World War II, and observe the significant architectural achievements of the Duomo. Its beauty dominates Florence’s skyline and showcases Giorgio Vasari’s Last Judgment painting beneath the dome.
- Day 1: Italy BoundOur adventure begins with an overnight flight across the Atlantic Ocean.
- Day 2: PaduaUpon arriving in Milan, our knowledgeable Italian guide and driver greet us. Enjoy a drive through the scenic countryside in the Lombardy and Veneto regions to Padua, a historic city known for its beauty, world-renowned university, and as the setting for Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew. After checking in to our accommodations for the next two evenings, our day concludes with a fantastic Welcome Dinner.
Meals Included: Dinner
- Day 3: VeniceThis morning, we travel to Tronchetto for a boat ride to Venice. Next, embark on a guided walking tour of the stunning “Floating City” and discover grand examples of Byzantine architecture in St. Mark’s Square. This city centerpiece features St. Mark’s Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Doge’s Palace, a former royal residence. Afterwards, take time at leisure to explore on your own before our quintessential gondola ride on Venice’s charming waterways. This evening, savor an included dinner before returning to Padua.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 4: TuscanyToday, we venture into the Emilia-Romagna region for time at leisure in Ferrara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with elegant palaces dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Next, our travels continue through the Apennine Mountains to the gorgeous Tuscany region. We arrive in the historic city of Florence this evening and settle into our hotel for the next two nights before tasting regional cuisine at dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 5: FlorenceWe’re off to discover the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to many of the world’s greatest artistic treasures on a guided walking tour this morning. Admire the Duomo (Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore), the largest brick dome ever constructed, and gaze upon Ghiberti’s famous bronze doors of the Baptistery, often referred to as the Gates of Paradise. We also visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to view incredible masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s famous David statue. The afternoon is yours to visit museums, indulge in a fresh gelato, or browse the shops of Ponte Vecchio, a famous covered bridge housing many local vendors. Our evening concludes with a scenic illuminated walk through the city center to truly appreciate Florence’s beauty.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 6: San GimignanoOur day begins with a southbound drive through Tuscany, brimming with picturesque groves of olive trees and vineyards. We stop in the medieval hilltop town of San Gimignano, also known as the Town of Fine Towers, which is best recognized by its 14 magnificent towers and 13th-century encircling walls. Explore its deep history and rich culture from the Middle Ages on a guided tour. Later, we arrive in the eternal city of Rome and check in to our accommodations for the next three nights, then gather for a delicious dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 7: Ancient RomeToday’s adventure brings us through the fascinating sights and landmarks of ancient Rome. Begin with a visit to one of the most celebrated monuments of the Roman Empire and the largest amphitheater in the world, the Colosseum. Learn about the many uses of this legendary arena and walk in the steps of mighty gladiators. Next, we tour the Roman Forum, once the governmental center of the city and now home to several well-preserved pieces of architecture, including the Arch of Constantine. We complete our exploration with views of the magnificent Trevi Fountain, completed in 1762. Hear about the fascinating legend, then toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome! The rest of the day is yours to see St. Peter's Square, climb the Spanish Steps, visit the Pantheon, or explore the statues and cafés of Piazza Navona.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 8: Vatican City & the Sistine ChapelThis morning, we’re immersed in the city’s art, culture, and history during a guided tour of the famous Vatican Museums. Browse the galleries to see some of the most renowned classical sculptures and Renaissance art in the world, then step into the remarkable Sistine Chapel. The iconic ceiling fresco was painted by Michelangelo and is truly a magnificent sight to behold. Our visit to Vatican City continues with a special tour of St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most extraordinary churches around the globe and home to the Catholic Church. Marvel at the impressive relics, including the Altar of the Sacred Heart, the Chair of Saint Peter, and Michelangelo’s Pieta. Tonight, we gather with new friends one more time for a special dinner featuring live musical entertainment before beginning the second half of our Grand Adventure tomorrow morning.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 9: Tuscan CountrysideAfter breakfast, we meet the expert Italian guide who accompanies us throughout the rest of our tour. We then begin our picturesque journey through the famous rolling hills of Tuscany. Our countryside home for the next four nights is nestled within the rolling hills of Chianti, offering breathtaking vistas and a serene atmosphere. This evening, we get to know fellow travelers over a Welcome Dinner of authentic Tuscan cuisine, complete with local wine.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 10: Volterra & San GimignanoToday, we visit two of Italy’s best-preserved medieval hill towns, both of which are surrounded by fortified walls and overlook hilly farmland. Our first stop is Volterra, once an important Etruscan city that predates the Roman Empire. Learn about its ancient history during a walking tour with views of the 12th-century Romanesque cathedral, medieval frescoes, and iconic bell tower. We also watch an impressive carving of Alabaster, a locally mined soft rock and mineral. In the afternoon, we have another opportunity to explore San Gimignano and roam the quaint cobblestone streets that make this ancient hill town so mesmerizing. Later, we indulge in regional cuisine for dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 11: FlorenceThis morning, we enjoy another walking tour of Florence to gaze upon more of the city’s iconic masterpieces, such as the Duomo, the largest brick dome ever constructed. The afternoon is yours to shop for souvenirs in Ponte Vecchio, visit the Uffizi Gallery to see ancient sculptures and paintings, or pursue other interests. Later, we’re treated to a special evening at Castello di Verrazzano, where we learn the history of celebrated navigator Giovanni da Verrazzano and savor a dinner paired with a fantastic selection of wine samplings.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 12: CortonaWe travel to the hilltop town of Cortona this morning for a fascinating tour with our Italian guide. Admire the medieval architecture of Piazza Garibaldi, the sights and shops along the Via Nazionale, and the opulence of Palazzo Casali, which displays relics from the Etruscan, Roman, and Egyptian civilizations. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the Renaissance churches, olive groves, and terraces that surround us in this picture-perfect town. Following an included dinner, we head back to our hotel in Chianti.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 13: Pisa & Ligurian CoastSay arrivederci to Tuscany as we travel north to Pisa, known for its timeless architecture as well as historic churches and palaces. Our guide introduces us to the area famously called "The Field of Miracles," where we see the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Grab a bucket list photo in front of this impressive structure, then take some time at leisure before our journey continues to Santa Margherita Ligure on the Ligurian Coast, our home for the next two nights.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 14: Cinque TerreToday, we visit one of Italy’s most well-loved destinations, an Italian National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site: Cinque Terre. Climb aboard the Cinque Terre Express for a day of exploring quaint cities on this rocky coastline along the Mediterranean Sea. We start in the village of Riomaggiore, then continue on to Vernazza, and end in Monterosso al Mare, with a lovely beach and beautiful lemon trees. Enjoy superb views of pastel-colored buildings in charming fishing villages and distinctive terraced vineyards that produce local wine, such as specialty dry whites. Later, we return to our hotel for an evening at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
- Day 15: Italian RivieraEnjoy a relaxing morning before a ferry ride takes us to Portofino, known as the Pearl of the Italian Riviera. This enchanting fishing village, boasting a picturesque harbor, is frequented by some of Europe’s wealthiest and most discerning pleasure seekers. After free time to explore, we travel to Milan and check in to our overnight accommodations near the airport. Tonight, we gather for a celebratory Farewell Dinner and toast to our adventures.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
- Day 16: Fly HomeWe return home today with fond memories of our Italian Grand Adventure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
May 24 - Jun 8, 2025
$13,098
per person
$11,598
per person
Feb 18, 2025
Jun 7-22, 2025
$13,098
per person
$11,598
per person
Mar 4, 2025
What's Included
All Accommodations
- 2 nights at Hotel Europa in Padua
- 2 nights at Hotel Roma in Florence
- 3 nights at Hotel Ponte Sisto in Rome
- 4 nights at Park Hotel Chianti in Tuscany
- 2 nights at Best Western Hotel Regina Elena on the Ligurian Coast
- 1 night at Palace Hotel Legnano near the Milan airport
Attractions & Highlights
- Venice guided walking tour feat. St. Mark’s Square, Doge's Palace, the Bridge of Sighs & gondola ride
- Florence evening illumination walk
- Florence evening illumination walk
- San Gimignano guided walking tour
- Rome guided walking tour feat. the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain & Roman Forum
- Time at leisure in Venice, Ferrara, Florence, San Gimignano & Rome
- Vatican City guided walking tour feat. St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel & the Vatican Museums
- Tuscan countryside
- Volterra guided walking tour feat. Alabaster carving demonstration
- Florence guided walking tour feat. The Duomo (Santa Maria del Fiore) & Galleria dell’Accademia w/Michelangelo’s David
- Cortona guided walking tour
- Field of Miracles feat. Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Cinque Terre
- Boat ride to Portofino
- Ligurian Coast
- Time at leisure in all cities
25 Excellent Meals
- Welcome Dinner in Milan
- Daily European breakfast
- Local wine with every included dinner
- Dinner in Rome with live entertainment
- Dinner & wine tasting at Castello di Verrazzano
- Dinner on the Ligurian Coast
- Farewell Dinner in Milan
Learn more about what's included with the Holiday Advantage.
Birmingham - Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport