8 days Art Cities of Italy, Private Tour

Explore Italy’s artistic and cultural treasures on this 8-day private tour through Rome, Florence, Venice, and Milan. From the ancient streets of Rome and Renaissance masterpieces in Florence to the romantic canals of Venice and Milan’s cosmopolitan elegance, this journey blends iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and authentic local experiences. Guided tours, leisure time, and expert insights make this an immersive Italian adventure for art, history, and culture enthusiasts.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Rome: wander the historic city center and admire the grandeur of its villas, panoramic views, and remarkable archaeological sites.

Siena: offers medieval charm with its Palio horse race, Piazza del Campo, and the Cathedral adorned with works by Michelangelo, Donatello, and Bernini, along with local delicacies like pici pasta and ricciarelli biscuits.

Florence: reveals the magic of the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria, and the Accademia Gallery, while artisan workshops showcase exquisite Florentine gold, leather, and traditional fragrances.

Verona: explore the Roman Arena, Juliet’s House, and the vibrant historic center.

Venice: captivates with St. Mark’s Square, Doge’s Palace, and excursions to Murano and Burano for glassmaking and colorful streets.

Milan: impresses with the Gothic Cathedral, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Sforzesco Castle, and historic piazzas.

Day 1: ARRIVAL ROME

Upon arrival at Rome Airport get onto your transfer to the hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the City of Seven Hills at your leisure. Enjoy your time getting to know the Eternal City, where you can simply breathe art and history at every corner. A seamless blend of old and new, Rome has something to offer to everyone, whether you are looking for historical factoids or landmarks, or simply looking to go on a shopping spree in Campo de Fiori or in Via Veneto. Don’t forget to seek out a nice restaurant in which to wrap up your first day with a plate of fresh Italian pasta.

Overnight in Rome. 

Day 2: ROME

Wake up to an American buffet breakfast at the hotel. In the morning enjoy a walking tour of Rome City Centre. Take a stroll that will take you to the Piazza Navona, the world-famous Pantheon and the stunning Fontana di Trevi. Don’t forget to make a wish and toss a coin into its glimmering waters! After the tour spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Rome. 

Day 3: ROME – SIENA – FLORENCE (310km – 3.5hrs)

After breakfast, depart from Rome to Siena, a 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 colourful local marble, 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. Then proceed to Florence for check-in.

Overnight in Florence.

Day 4: 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 5: 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.

Overnight in Venice.

Day 6: 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.

Overnight in Venice.

Day 7: VENICE – MILAN (270km – 2.5hrs by train)

After breakfast at the hotel, check out and depart for Milan by train. Upon arrival in Milan check-in and meet your guide for a walking tour to see the city highlights: Sforzesco Castle, medieval Piazza Mercanti, and Piazza Della Scala. Admire the marble facade of Milan Cathedral and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest shopping malls in the world. Conclude your tour in the historic Piazza del Duomo.

Overnight in Milan.

Day 8: 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.