Grand Italy Tour

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Connie Antinopoulos, Travel Agent in Charleston , SC

Connie Antinopoulos

Charleston , SC Travel Agent

Connie Antinopoulos

Charleston , SC · 25+ Years of Experience

The Vacation Group, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
4.9
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97% Recommended
Connie worked within our budget and destination goals for a driving vacation in Scotland that had to be wedged in between a family trip to Denmark... Read More >
COUNTRIES VISITED:Italy
PLACES VISITED:Florence, Rome, Tuscany, Venice
SUGGESTED DURATION:7 Days
Discover the breathtaking scenery, rich history, and delectable cuisine of Venice, Rome, and Florence. Savor Tuscan meals paired with exquisite local wines, enjoy private tours of world-renowned galleries, and glide through the canals of Venice on a gondola. Come and explore Italy at its finest.
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DAY1
Venice
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arrival into Venice
Upon arriving in Venice, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, either exploring the city or relaxing. In the evening, join your guide and fellow travelers for a delightful dinner and reception.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Explore your beautiful hotel
DAY2
Venice
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Venetian Wanderings
Venice, a city of 118 islands, uniquely blends ancient and modern charm. Transportation? By boat or on foot—you’ll experience both. Walk the historic paths on your guided tour, visiting landmarks like St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. This city beautifully merges the remnants of the ancient Venetian Empire with vibrant modern culture. Pause for a coffee at Caffe Florian, which has been serving since December 1720. Then, explore the city’s famous waterways on a gondola canal cruise, weaving through Venice’s picturesque canals.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Gondola Ride and St. Mark's Basilica
DAY3
Florence
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Birthplace of the Renaissance
Travel from Venice to Florence on a high-speed train. Your centrally located hotel will be within walking distance of the Uffizi Gallery, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria. Enjoy a private lecture on the birth of the Renaissance, followed by lunch and a walking tour of Florence’s historic center. Visit the Galleria dell’Accademia to marvel at Michelangelo’s David. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Walking Tour of Florence
DAY4
Florence
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Florence Exploration
Florence seamlessly blends timeless art with contemporary galleries and is home to iconic fashion houses like Gucci and Ferragamo. Explore more of this remarkable city, which indeed has something for everyone. This evening, enjoy a private guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery, where you’ll marvel at thousands of masterpieces and exhibits.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Private tour of the Uffizi Galleries
DAY5
Tuscany
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A taste of Tuscany
Today, you’ll depart Florence and journey through the stunning landscapes of Tuscany. Visit the historic monastery of Badia de Passignano, where Galileo once taught, and learn about the monks’ grape cultivation. Enjoy a guided tour of the wine cellars with an expert, sampling the renowned Chiantis of the region. Lunch will feature traditional Tuscan cuisine, perfectly paired with exceptional local wines. No visit to Tuscany is complete without tasting the region’s olive oils, guided by a chef. After returning to Florence, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Monastery of Badia de Passignano
DAY6
Rome
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Roman Adventure
Meet your guide for a tour that includes a visit to Saint Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Designed by Michelangelo, the dome crowns a cathedral that houses the tombs of popes and galleries filled with masterpieces. After the tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own or rest before the evening’s exclusive after-hours tour of the Vatican and its museums. Discover treasures spanning centuries, from artistic masterpieces to archaeological finds. Conclude your visit by exiting the galleries and taking in the breathtaking view of the Vatican against the night sky.
HIGHLIGHTS:
After-Hours Tour of Vatican
DAY7
Rome
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Roman Adventure
Meet your transfer in the lobby to continue your journey to other destinations or return home. You’ve walked through these three beautiful cities' rich history and vibrant culture. Captivated by their enchanting charm, we bid you “Ciao” until we meet again.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Rome
FINAL THOUGHTS
Each of these cities offers an abundance of sights and activities. With private, exclusive tours, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the rich cultural treasures these cities have to offer without the lines. This tour is unforgettable.