Italy grand tour: Venetian canals to the Amalfi Coast

Venice

Day 1: Welcome to Venice!

Your first day in Italy has arrived! Land at Venice Marco Polo Airport and transfer to your accommodation for check-in. From there, set out to explore St. Mark's Square and admire iconic landmarks such as St. Mark's Basilica, the Doge's Palace, and the Campanile - you've the afternoon to rest and enjoy at a leisurely pace. Overnight in Venice.

Venice

Day 2: Soak up the magic of Venice

Good morning, Venice! On your first full day in this charming city, start with a visit to the historic Rialto Bridge which spans the Grand Canal, then take your time exploring the bustling Rialto Market nearby - now's your chance to sample local delicacies as you soak up the immersive atmosphere.

In the afternoon, enjoy the magic of Venice from the water as you glide along its iconic canals aboard a traditional gondola. At dinnertime, sample Venetian-style tapas known as cicchetti at local bacari wine bars, paired with a glass of prosecco or regional wine. Overnight in Venice.

Venice

Day 3: The wonders of Murano & Burano

Today, you'll have the chance to explore the many charms of nearby islands Murano and Burano. Begin with a boat trip to Murano to witness glass-blowing demonstrations, then continue on to marvel at Burano's brightly-colored houses, picturesque canals, and lace-making traditions.

For dinner, experience Venetian cuisine at its best as you dine at a traditional trattoria and savor Venetian specialties, like sarde in saor and risotto al nero di seppia. Overnight in Venice.

Venice - Florence

Day 4: Journey to romantic Florence

Today, say goodbye to Venice as you take a fast train transfer to Florence, the second port of call on your grand tour of Italy. Have your first taste of the city by sampling Florentine gelato - an indulgent, creamy delicacy that will set the tone for a wonderful day of exploring.

Then, head out to visit the Uffizi Gallery, where you'll marvel at Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci. You'll have the rest of the day to seek out more enchanting sights at your own pace, ahead of an overnight stay.

Florence

Day 5: Dive into the heart of Florence

This morning, begin with a guided tour of the Accademia Gallery. Gaze in awe at Michelangelo's masterpiece, the Statue of David, and other important works of Renaissance art. Continue on with a visit to the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, to admire the iconic Duomo - don't miss your chance to climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.

The rest of the day will be spent strolling down Florence's streets and soaking up their historic allure. Walk along the Ponte Vecchio, the oldest bridge in the city, lined with jewelry shops and boasting stunning views of the Arno River. Optionally, you could take a two- or three-hour artisan tour, visiting the most traditional workshops across the city for true insight into local craftsmanship.

Florence - Lucca - Florence

Day 6: Soak up history in Pisa & Lucca

From your base in Florence, you'll take the day to tour two iconic cities rich in culture, history and beauty: Pisa and Lucca.

Begin with a transfer to Pisa, where you'll explore the Piazza dei Miracoli - a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to the world-famous Leaning Tower and Pisa Cathedral. Feel like a local as you wander its streets lined with colorful houses and cafes, and sample deliciously fresh food as you go - a plate of baccalà, perhaps?

It's on to picturesque Lucca next, for a chance to walk or cycle along its city walls and tour the historic center. Stroll down leafy tree-lined paths, climb the 233 steps to reach the top of Guinigi Tower, and pay homage to Italian composer Puccini who called the city home.

Finally, you'll transfer back to Florence for an overnight stay amidst its timeless charms.

Florence - Chianti

Day 7: Journey along Chianti's wine trail

Say your goodbyes to Florence as you prepare for the next leg of your trip: a transfer to vineyard-clad Chianti! There, you'll embark on a flavorful journey along the region's famous wine trail, making a stop along the way for lunch punctuated by various regional wines. Explore beautiful towns as you go, such as Greve in Chianti and Castellina in Chianti, surrounded by sprawling views of rolling green hills.

Chianti - Montalcino - Chianti

Day 8: Vineyards & great views in Montalcino

Are you ready for a day fueled by crisp wine and gorgeous Italian sunshine? From your Chianti base, take a trip to Montalcino - a town near Siena that's famous for its Brunello di Montalcino wine. Explore its medieval streets, taking in the architecture and striking views of the surrounding countryside, and visit a renowned vineyard for an unforgettable wine tasting experience. Come evening, tuck into a traditional dinner before an overnight stay back in Chianti.

Chianti - Sorrento

Day 9: Journey to the coast

Goodbye, Chianti! After a few days amidst mesmerizing vineyard-cloaked hills, it's time for a transfer to the coastal town of Sorrento. There, you'll have time to settle into your accommodation and enjoy a slow afternoon as you feel the embrace of the sea breeze. Spend the evening strolling along the waterfront or relaxing at a local cafe, ahead of an overnight stay.

Sorrento - Positano - Sorrento

Day 10: Bask in the beauty of Positano & Ravello

From your base in Sorrento, you'll set off today to explore Positano and Ravello on an epic coastal day trip.

Begin with a wander through the picturesque streets of Positano, famous for its pastel-colored houses and scenic views. Stop for lunch at a seaside restaurant, where you'll get to enjoy fresh fare plucked straight from the ocean as you overlook the Mediterranean.

It's then on to the charming hilltop town of Ravello, known for its stunning gardens and panoramic views of the Amalfi Coast and Tyrrhenian Sea. Spend a while amidst its endless charms, before heading back to Sorrento in the evening to relax after a day of exploration.

Sorrento - Capri - Sorrento

Day 11: Take a trip to captivating Capri

Today, head to the port of Sorrento to embark on a day tour of Capri. The boat trip will take you around the island, a great way for you to appreciate the local scenery and surrounding caves in all their splendor.

You'll have time to explore the island on foot and enjoy lunch in the heart of Capri town. If you're in the mood for further refreshment, make a stop to swim in the crystal-clear waters. Optionally, you could even take a boat trip out to the Blue Grotto, a mesmerizing sea cave illuminated by reflected sunlight. Finally, you'll return to your accommodation in Sorrento for an overnight stay.

Sorrento - Pompeii - Rome

Day 12: Explore the historic ruins of Pompeii

After a few languid days in Sorrento, you'll journey on to Rome, passing through the ancient city of Pompeii en-route to uncover its fascinating history on a guided tour.

In the evening, visit Rome's lively Piazza Navona square. You'll find yourself surrounded by beautiful landmarks, including the famous Trevi Fountain, as well as bustling street performers and charming restaurants - there's really no better way to dive headfirst into the city's buzz. Overnight in Rome.

Rome

Day 13: A day of sightseeing in Rome

A lovely day in Rome awaits! For today's program, explore the Colosseum and Roman Forum, discovering two of ancient Rome's most iconic landmarks with a guided tour. Carry on with a visit to the Pantheon, an ancient temple dedicated to the Roman gods, before taking a food-lover's stroll through the city's Trastevere neighborhood, learning all about the local specialties as you go.

You'll have the rest of the day to relax, unwind and explore the city at your own pace - be sure to make the most of it! Overnight in Rome.

Rome

Day 14: One last adventure in Rome

For the penultimate day of your trip, you'll have a great selection of activities to choose from and enjoy in Rome.

Take an immersive cooking class to help you brush up on your Italian culinary skills: you'll meet a local chef and visit a food market to pick up all the necessary ingredients, before learning how to make pasta from scratch! Alternatively, take a trip to Vatican City to explore its Sistine Chapel and museums, home to an incredible collection of art, before gazing in awe at St. Peter's Basilica, the largest church in the world.

Afterwards, spend a while browsing the shops and boutique stores down Via del Corso, Rome's main shopping street, where you can enjoy some last-minute retail therapy. You'll then sit down for your final dinner at a local trattoria: tuck into your favorite Italian dishes as you reminisce about your trip!

Rome

Day 15: So long, Italy!

Today, you'll check out of your accommodation and transfer to Rome's Leonardo da Vinci–Fiumicino Airport in time for your departure flight. Arrivederci, Italy!