Italy in 2 weeks luxury family tour

Italy in 2 weeks luxury family tour

from £5,630 per person

A child-friendly itinerary to discover Italy's main sights in two weeks, with the comfort of private guides and transfers, and a selection of charming four star hotels. With this tour you will discover Italy most famous highlights: Rome, Venice, Florence, Tuscany, the leaning tower of Pisa, and the Amalfi coast. You will also live a direct and fun experience of the local culture, food and traditions. This itinerary is specifically designed to match younger travelers' interests and needs. The itinerary pace is fairly slow, and includes activities and visits that will interest and thrill younger travelers such as catacombs, scenic walks, ravines, bicycles rides, boat rides, food tours, beaches and much more. During your itinerary you will sleep in selected cosy and typical four and five stars hotels, perfectly located and with plenty of charm. Get ready for a memorable family trip!

Services

Included:

  • Hotels as mentioned. In case they were not available we will propose alternatives
  • All breakfasts
  • Private transfer from Rome airport to hotel
  • Colosseum and Roman semi private Forum Tour
  • St Peter and Vatican museum private tour
  • Private ebikes apian way tour
  • Entrance to the Catacombs
  • Train tickets to Naples
  • Private guided visit to Pompei
  • Private transfer to Pompei and to Amalfi
  • Hydrofoil tickets to Capri
  • High speed train tickets to Florence
  • Private tour to Pisa and Lucca
  • Private tour to Val D’Orcia
  • Guided private visit in Florence
  • High speed train tickets tickets to Venice
  • Water taxi from Venice train station to Foscari Palace Hotel
  • Private guided Venice tour by foot and water
  • Private guided visit of lagoon islands, including boat transfers
  • Vivaldi concert tickets
  • Boat taxi transfer to Venice airport

Excluded:

  • International flights
  • Travel insurances
  • Dinner and lunches
  • Entrance tickets to the monuments
  • Local taxes

Optional:

  • Food tour (50 € per person)
  • Coocking class (100 € per person)

Itinerary at a Glance

Day 1

Rome

Rome

Day 2

Rome

Rome

Day 3

Rome

Rome

Day 4

Rome

Rome

Day 5

Naples - Pompei - Amalfi

Naples - Positano

Day 6

Capri

Capri - Positano

Day 7

Amalfi

Amalfi - Positano

Day 8

Florence

Florence

Day 9

Florence

Florence

Day 10

Pisa - Lucca

Florence - San Giminiano

Day 11

Montalcino - Bagno Vignoni - Pienza

Pisa - Florence

Day 12

Venice

Venice

Day 13

Venice

Venice - Burano

Day 14

Venice

Detailed Itinerary

Rome

Rome

Day 1: Rome

Private transfer to Rome city centre
Car Transfer: Your private driver will wait for you just after the luggage collection hall and will drive to your hotel in the city centre. Estimated driving time: 50 minutes.


Discover the amazing city centre of Rome (self-guided)
Excursion: Rome is arguably one of the world’s most romantic and fascinating cities, and the best way to discover it is simply to walk around! Stroll through the centre and you’ll come across masterpieces by the European art titans such as Michelangelo, Bernini, Caravaggio and Raffaello works of art. A self-guided walking tour is a fantastic way to discover Rome amazing city centre at your own pace. Be ready to be amazed when stumbling open the major iconic sights, such as Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Spanish Steps and Fontana di Trevi. According to some, Piazza Navona is not just Rome's but the world’s most beautiful square. Not only because of its statues and fountains such as Lorenzo Berninis’ Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi, but because of its dimensions. Despite Piazza Navona is one of Rome’s liveliest squares, with many outdoor cafés and restaurants, this large rectangular square still manages to feel intimate. Curious to know what a Roman temple looked like? Then head to the Pantheon, the better preserved Roman temple in Rome, simply because early Christians turned it into a church from the very beginning. The size of the colonnade and of the dome is impressive: Romans had to wait for St Peter's basilica to be finished to admire a larger dome! The Spanish Steps are located at Piazza di Spagna and leads to the French church, Trinità dei Monti. The monumental stairway of 138 steps was designed in 1723 by Francesco De Sanctis, and is one of the two remaining major Barocco monuments. At the bottom of the stairway stands the famous "barcaccia" fountain, from Gian Lorenzo Bernini. A short walk away, Fontana di Trevi is the largest Baroque fountain in the city and one of the most famous fountains in the world. It was designed by Giovanni Lorenzo Bernini and stands 26 metres high and 20 metres wide. It was completed in 1762. The fountain became world famous with Anita Ekberg splashing around in the "La Dolce Vita". Tradition says that if you throw a coin over your shoulder into the fountain you will for sure come back again in Rome. These are just a taste of the wonders you will discover during your self-guided walk of Rome's ancient city centre. We will provide you with detailed google maps itinerary to make sure you don't miss anything important and that you enjoy your walk. (Optional extra: If you would like more guidance, we can also organise a private guided tour.)


Taste Roman cuisine in romantic Piazza Farnese
Excursion: We suggest you have dinner at Ar Galletto restaurant, a few steps away from Piazza Navona. It serves traditional Roman dishes in an elegant setting, in one of the most beautiful squares in Rome, Piazza Farnese. Just ask us, and we can make the reservation for you and will request for a table outside in the square so to enjoy the setting.


Rome

Rome

Day 2: Rome

Go back in time to the Roman empire: Colosseum and Roman Forum private tour
Excursion: Travel back to the ancient times and visit the Palatine - the first of the seven hills upon which Rome was founded. Imagine yourself as emperor Domitian, watching the chariot races in Circus Maximus from the balcony of his imperial palace. Walking down into the Roman forum, you will realise how the area has changed throughout the centuries - from the bustling centre of the ancient capital, into a pasture for sheep and cattle, and then back to its ancient glory after it was excavated in the 19th century. Many important events took places here: Julius Caesar's cremation, important military processions, the keeping of the sacred flame by the Vestal Virgins, decisions made by senators of the old republic that influenced the destiny of the empire. But the best is yet to come! Proceed to the great Colosseum, entering though its arches you can imagine gladiator fights and animal hunts as one of the 60, 000 spectators. You will learn about Rome's history and daily customs of its citizens! Estimated duration: 3 hours


Explore charming Trastevere
Excursion: Have you ever dreamed of discovering what Rome looked like a couple of centuries ago? Narrow stone paved streets lined by medieval houses? Then take a Trastevere walking tour to enjoy this charming medieval neighborhood full of romance and history. It's a perfect walk in the late afternoon and at sunset.. Trastevere is named for its position ‘over the Tiber’. Separated from the heart of central Rome by the river, the area retained its narrow lanes and working-class population when the rest of Rome began its nineteenth-century expansion. Despite its being a major touristic destination, it has managed to preserve a strong local (and “Roman”!) identity. Therefore, it’s not too difficult to step off the main routes and escape the masses.


Kosher food experience: dine in old Rome's Jewish Ghetto
Excursion: Rome used to have a relatively large Jewish Ghetto, and the Jewish community is still very present in the area. It's a very typical neighborhood where you can taste one of the best original Roman cuisine. Don't miss the Carciofi alla Giudia "Jewish style artichokes". We will share the name of our favorite restaurant, very close to Roman Portico d'Ottavia, and help you reserve a nice table.


Rome

Rome

Day 3: Rome

Art, history and religion: Vatican Museum and St Peter's Basilica (private tour)
Excursion: Have an expert private guide reveal for you the glory and magnificence of Roman popes during a three hour private visit of the Vatican Museum and St Peter's Basilica. The late Renaissance St Peter's Basilica is an iconic landmark of Rome, a monumental structure the likes of Michelangelo helped bring into existence, while the Vatican, with its amazing museums, is actually an independent state, the smallest of the world! Admire the largest church in the world and some of the world's most renowned masterpieces, by Michelangelo, Raphael, Caravaggio, Leonardo da Vinci: few museums in the world can be compared to the Vatican museums! Your guide will tell you about Roman and Greek mythology while admiring ancient statues of Pagan gods like Diana Efesina, in the Gallery of Candelabra. As you continue through the Gallery of Tapestries you will enjoy the elegance and precision of the Flemish artists. Then explore all of Italy at once in the fascinating Gallery of Maps. But the best is yet to come: enter the cradle of the Renaissance stepping into the Raphael Rooms and as the Grand Finale, be stunned by Michelangelo's masterpieces inside the Sistine Chapel. Exiting the Vatican Museums, the imposing St. Peter's Basilica will overwhelm you with its size, opulence and masterpieces, among which the famous Baldachin by Bernini and Michelangelo Pietà. Estimated duration: 3 hours.


Climb to the top of St Peter's dome
Excursion: A not to be missed experience, the ascent to the top of St Peter's dome offers the best view over Rome and an exciting ascent inside the dome structure. The entrance is on the right side of St Peter's facade (separate ticket needed). Be prepared to take a lift and to climb 321 steps before getting to the top terrace.


Explore castel Sant'Angelo, the Popes' fortress
Excursion: Castel Sant’Angelo, formerly Emperor Hadrian's Mausoleum, is one of the most famous Roman landmarks. And it’s just in front of you when walking along the tiber to Piazza Navona or getting out from St Peter’s Cathedral. Castel Sant’Angleo's construction began in 130 AD and ended in 139 AD. The Roman Emperor Hadrian wanted a mausoleum for himself, his family, and his successors. In the 5th century Emperor Aurelian converted Hadrian’s mausoleum into a fortress, to defend Rome from barbarian invasions. In 1277 Pope Nicholas III connected the castle to the Vatican with the now famous corridor called the Passetto di Borgo. Dan Brown’s movie, Angels & Demons, made this elevated passage worldwide famous. Popes used the Passetto di Borgo in times of danger as an escape route from the Vatican to the safe confines of the fortress. Castel Sant’Angelo’s past has a sinister side to it as well, having been used as a prison during the middle ages and as recently as the late 19th century. It's a fascinating visits for both children and adults!


Taste the best "cacio e pepe" pasta in Trastevere
Excursion: Roma Sparita is a restaurant located in the less crowded and touristic area of Trastevere. They serve one of the best "pasta Cacio e Pepe" in Rome. We can help you reserving in advance your outdoor table.


Rome

Rome

Day 4: Rome

Taste real Roman cuisine: private foodie walking tour
Excursion: Rome has a long tradition of simple and good food. Discover the many different specialties while walking along the ancient Roman streets, hidden squares, districts, ruins, fountains, as well as local markets and artisanal shops. It really gives the opportunity to understand Italian spirit and traditions and the social importance of cuisine in Italian identity, while tasting different types of delicious food and wines, such as from appetizers (ham, cheese and much more!) to typical Jewish food, pastas, Roman pizza, pastries and much more. The tour will take place in the ancient city centre, starting from the charming Campo dei Fiori local market to the old Jewish ghetto. Estimated duration: 3 hours and 30 minutes.


Discover the mysterious catacombs
Shared Excursion: The catacombs were the early Christians underground cemeteries, and where they held their ceremonies. They are incredibly huge and some tombs are remarkable works of art. The most interesting ones are located along the Appian way. You can visit either St Sebastiano or St Callisto catacombs, depending on closing days. You will join a group tour organised by the local priest (no private guides allowed inside the catacombs). Just take a taxi from your hotel, it won't take more than 20 minutes to get there. Last entry is at 4:30 PM.


Explore the Appian way by bike
Excursion: The old Roman Appian Way, which ran from Rome down to Brindisi, 300 kilometers to the south, is probably the most famous and important of all ancient Roman roads. The stretch close to Rome is now part of a nature and archaeological park which includes early Christian catacombs, original Roman causeways, monuments and mausoleums, the remains of seven Roman aqueducts dating back to the Republican and Imperial age, and large, untouched rural landscapes dotted with cypress and maritime pines. Walking or riding a bike along the Via Appia Antica is a refreshing change from the city, particularly on Sundays when the area is closed to traffic. The road is attractive and atmospheric, with plenty of grassy spots where to relax and to picnic. If you have time, you can also visit the nearby Aqueducts park, particularly suggestive at sunset. We will provide you with a map and reserve rental bikes for you (rental cost not included, just pay at the bike kiosk). If you would like more assistance, we can organise a private guided tour for you.


Naples - Positano

Naples - Pompei - Amalfi

Day 5: Naples - Positano

High speed train from Rome to Naples
Shared Train Transfer: Naples is just one hour thirty minutes away by high speed train. We will provide you with comfortable Premium Class reserved seats. To get to Rome train station from your hotel just ask the concierge to call a taxi for you. Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes


Discover the secrets of Pompeii with a professional guide
Excursion: A trip to Naples and the Amalfi coast wouldn't be complete without a visit to enchanting Pompeii. Pompeii today is a unique archaeological site in Italy: a perfectly preserved ancient city that you can explore walking as if you were 2, 000 years back in time. The city has re-emerged from the past precisely as it would have been when it was unexpectedly buried in the thick layer of ashes, during the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Under the thick layer of volcanic material which submerged it, the city has remained intact until the present day, not only as far as its buildings are concerned, but also as regards the contents inside the houses and shops, providing an absolutely fascinating picture of ancient "daily" life. A private driver will pick you up at Naples train station, and you will meet your professional guide at the entrance of Pompeii to experience a wonderful tour inside Pompeii's ruins, for a fascinating tour, full of explanations and anecdotes. Walk down the perfectly preserved alleys and discover how Romans used to live twenty centuries ago! Duration: 2 hours


Transfer to Positano along the Amalfi coast
Car Transfer: Your driver will pick you up at the archaeological park exit and drive you to Positano, along the amazing Amalfi coast. Don't hesitate to ask him to stop in the many view points!


Half day at leisure in Positano
Excursion: Positano is the most impressive town on the Amalfi Coast, and arguably the most photographed of the region. It's the highlight of your Amalfi coast trip. Seen from the sea, Positano shows a dramatic vertical panorama of colors. The green of the Monti Lattari, the white, pink and yellow of the Mediterranean houses, the silvery grey of its pebble beaches and the blue of the sea. Just amazing! The sea colour is crystalline and its black, volcanic sand beaches such as Marina grande and Fornillo are an irresistible temptation. Don’t forget to taste local delicacies: on top of seafood you should have a try of local desserts such as Delizie al limone (soft pastry with a delicious lemon flavoured cream) and torta positanese (cake with almonds).


Capri - Positano

Capri

Day 6: Capri - Positano

Hydrofoil to Capri
Shared Boat Transfer: In high season a hydrofoil connects Positano to Capri, departing at 9:30. Estimated transfer time: 40 minutes.


Explore Capri and Anacapri with a professional guide
Excursion: There are many hidden treasures in Capri, hard to find without a professional guide to highlight them to you. From the Marina Grande harbour you will move to Capri town via Funicolare Trolley. From there, you will walk to the famous Gardens of Augustus or, if you like to get away from the crowds, you can walk to Punta Tragara to admire the Faraglioni rock. Alternatively, you can visit the impressive remains of the roman villa of Emperor Tiberio, built on one of the highest cliffs of the island. Your guide will define with you the itinerary best suited to meet your interest and aspirations. Then you will board a convertible taxi to reach Anacapri, the village on the edge of the island, a completely different place compared to posh and touristed Capri. Here you can stroll at slow pace along the pedestrian areas to look at the panoramas and at the lovely boutiques, and still feel the typical southern relaxed attitude. You may also visit famous Villa San Michele, the dream home of the Swedish physician Axel Munthe. For a little bit of an adventure, from Anacapri catch the old chair-lift that reaches the top of the island, The mount Solaro (nearly 600mt), considered one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in Italy. During the day there will certainly be occasion for some shopping and to taste some of the local specialties.


Hydrofoil to Positano
Shared Boat Transfer: The hydrofoil will bring you back to Positano at 4:30 PM, in time to enjoy the sunset.


Amalfi - Positano

Amalfi

Day 7: Amalfi - Positano

Full day private tour of the Amalfi Coast's highlights
Excursion: Imagine ancient white hamlets perched on high cliffs, overlooking the deep blue Tyrrhenian sea. Add citrus fields, steep light grey mountains, medieval churches, hidden fjords and beaches. Complete with amazing seafood and a “dolce vita” feeling stronger than anywhere else in Italy. That, and much more, is the Amalfi Coast: you can’t really say you know Italy without visiting this delightful destination. You will live a full day in paradise, strolling on the world famous Amalfi Drive with your private guide, discovering its gorgeous beauty and its ancient towns. The focus will be on Amalfi, Positano and Ravello, each one with its art, history and secrets. Out of the three villages, Amalfi is the most historical and lively one, with the impressive Cathedral of St Andrew, where the relics of the apostle are kept. Positano is the most fashionable and colorful with its art galleries and clothing stores, its narrow and winding streets and its long beaches. Ravello is the most elegant and it features a nice Cathedral and the famous Villa Rufolo and Villa Cimbrone, both offering amazing and iconic views.


Florence

Florence

Day 8: Florence

Private transfer from Positano to Naples station
Car Transfer: Your private driver will come and pick you at your hotel and drive you to Naples central station. Expected transfer time: 2 hours.


High speed train from Naples to Florence
Shared Train Transfer: From Naples central station you will catch a high speed train to Florence. Train station is right in the city centre. Estimated transfer time: 3 hours.


Discover Tuscan cuisine at Mercato Centrale
Excursion: This is an ancient turn-of-the-century market that has been recently turned into a fantastic food hall. You can just browse the many stalls, choose whatever inspires you and eat it on the tables. It's cheap and delicious. A perfect introduction to Tuscany's cuisine!


Meals: Breakfast
Florence

Florence

Day 9: Florence

Discover Florence's highlights with a private walking tour
Excursion: Florentia—literally "florid city"—was the name given by the Romans to this settlement founded in the I century AD along the Arno river, at the foot of Fiesole, an Etruscan city whose ruins are visible on the hill which dominates the city. The blossoming of Florence in art, culture and international trade began in the 13th century and reached its peak in the 15th century under the reign of the Medici family, who ruled over the city for more than three centuries. Everywhere you turn in Florence, you find extraordinary works of art and architecture, which attract almost 8 million tourists every year—from the Palazzo Vecchio to the world-famous Uffizi Gallery to the Cathedral with its magnificent dome and the tower designed by Giotto. Along the river Arno the Ponte Vecchio, with its jewellery shops is a must for all those who pass through the city, as well as the splendid Boboli gardens across the river. Estimated duration: 3 hours


The other side of Florence: the "Oltrarno"
Excursion: Oltrarno (literally: "on the other side of the river Arno"), is a charming area of Florence, and far less touristy than the city centre. It's very easy to find, just cross Ponte Vecchio and you are there. Walk along the old streets and squares, full of Trattorie and antiques shops. Piazza Santo Spirito is perfect to have lunch in a typical restaurant. Once per month (the second Sunday), piazza Santo Spirito hosts an antiques market. Close by stands the impressive Palazzo Pitti, one of Florence's largest architectural monuments. Originally designed for the Pitti family in 1457 by Filippo Brunelleschi, in 1549 the Medicis purchased the palace to make it the primary residence of the grand ducal family. Behind Palazzo Pitti the charming Boboli gardens are a perfect place to take some rest and to admire a true Italian renaissance garden.


Admire Florence from above: sunset in piazzale Michelangelo
Excursion: Piazzale Michelangelo dominates Florence, and offers a stupendous lookout over Florence. It's the perfect place to admire sunset. From Ponte Vecchio, walk up to the Michelangiolo viewpoint (it's a half an hour walk, just catch a cab if you feel tired). On your way, make sure you stop to admire the Giardino delle Rose. A few more steps will bring you to the medieval San Miniato church, the most beautiful part of Florence in my opinion.


Meals: Breakfast
Florence - San Giminiano

Pisa - Lucca

Day 10: Florence - San Giminiano

Get your rental car in Florence
Excursion: The most convenient way to discover Tuscany countryside is to rent a car, so that you can explore the region at your own pace, with the highest flexibility. The rental car agency is close to the station, ten minutes walk from your hotel. We will provide you with a quick guide about how to safely drive in Italy. If you prefer not to drive, we can organize a private tour for you.


Explore Chianti vineyards and ancient villages
Excursion: The Chianti area is worldwide known for its vineyards, charming hamlets, ancient castles and churches, and of course for its wines! The easiest way to explore the area is to follow the "Chianti wine road" (state road 222), which crosses all the area. There are many great places to stop at along the way. Greve in Chianti, is considered by many as the gate into Chianti and is famous for its particularly shaped piazza or square that has been marketplace for the castles and walled villages in the surroundings since the Middle Ages. Don't miss the great Enoteca Falorni wine shop. Continuing on the wine road, Castellina in Chianti is one of the most important destinations in Chianti. Once a fortified village, it hides along the ancient walls an impressive underground tunnel once used by the guards, Via delle Volte. The tiny and beautiful Volpaia village, often used as a movie set and the nearby imposing Badia di Coltibuoni.


Explore the Middle Ages on a walking tour of Siena
Excursion: Siena is (alongside Florence) one of the most fascinating Tuscan cities, with centuries of history, battles and art in its story. This walking tour will take you through the most beautiful corners, squares and streets of the city. Saint Domenic Church is where you will start your exploration and will learn about Siena's most famous lady - Saint Catherine. From San Domenico, follow the footsteps of the many pilgrims that crossed this city during the Middle Ages walking along the main street and reaching the Cathedral, one of the most beautiful Gothic churches of Italy. Here Michelangelo, Donatello, Bernini and so many others have enriched the church with fantastic works of art. Finish your walk in heart of the city, the Campo Square. This is is one of the most beautiful square in the world, where twice a year there is the famous horse race competition "the Palio". Don't forget to try the typical pastries (Ricciarelli, Panforte and Panpepato) at the famous Nannini café, close to the Campo square.


Visit San Giminiano, the Manhattan of the Middle Ages
Excursion: A visit to San Gimignano is a complete immersion into the 1300s borgo ambience. In fact, the city (still mostly intact today) is one of the best representatives – in terms of planning and organisation – of the European commune. Essentially, the urban version of the feudal system from the Middle Ages. The overriding characteristic of San Gimignano – that just about every visitor will notice from a distance – are its spectacular and unmistakable towers that watch over the scene. And each one has its own history. The town experienced a period of economic wealth and artistic flourish, above all in the mid-1300s, thanks to the merchants and pilgrims traveling along the Via Francigena; the route passed through San Gimignano, dividing it into two. It was also during this time that the town’s foremost families challenged each other in building the highest tower, attempts to exhibit who held the most power. Around the year 1300, 70 towers symbolized the 70 wealthy families inhabiting this territory. Today, only 13 remain standing. It is the Tuscany that travelers love most, set amidst fields of golden grain, vineyards and ancient hamlets. You will fall in love as well.


Meals: Breakfast
Pisa - Florence

Montalcino - Bagno Vignoni - Pienza

Day 11: Pisa - Florence

Hold up the leaning tower in Pisa
Excursion: Pisa is a world known town north of Florence, home of the "leaning tower", one of Italy's icons. The first sight not to be missed is Piazza dei Miracoli (“Square of Miracles”), the huge square hosting the tower, the Cathedral, the Baptistery and the monumental graveyard. The square is surrounded by a beautiful green lawn, and the contrast between the green grass and the dazzling white monuments has always struck me. Santa Maria Assunta, the awesome Cathedral, dominates the square with its beautiful Romanesque architecture. It hosts many important works of art, such as the great mosaic of St. John the Evangelist in the apse (1302) by Cimabue, or the Pulpit, a masterpiece by Giovanni Pisano. If you plan to climb on top of Pisa tower you should reserve your ticket well in advance (of course we can help you with the reservation).


Walk and cycle in charming Lucca
Excursion: Even though neglected by mass tourism, Lucca is an unmissable destination in Tuscany. Despite it is relatively small site, its city centre hosts amazing monuments and sights, dating from the Roman Age to the Renaissance. But what makes Lucca really unique is its Renaissance-era city walls that have remained intact while so many other Tuscan towns saw theirs destroyed in past centuries. Lucca's city walls were built between the first half of the sixteenth and mid-seventeenth centuries and are perfectly preserved. Their size is so large that they can easily be explored by bike. It's a funny and unique experience, and provides amazing views over Lucca city centers monuments. Expect a 45 minute ride to complete the full city walls tour. But Lucca is not worth visiting only for its city walls. actually there are many monuments that you shouldn't miss, such as San Michele in Foro, built in the large square that was originally the Roman Forum in the center of Lucca. It’s a beautiful square, lined with medieval buildings housing cafes, shops, and homes. Another unmissable square is Piazza Anfiteatro: it's one of Lucca's landmarks, nearly as famous as its walls. It’s an oval shaped piazza, that was once a Roman amphitheater. Buildings and houses were built around the arena during the middle ages, giving the square its oval shape. Also notable the Duomo di San Martino: Lucca’s cathedral, dedicated to San Martino or Saint Martin, sits on Piazza San Martino surrounded by impressive medieval buildings. Originally build in the 12th to 13th centuries, it’s Romanesque in style and has an intricately decorated marble facade. The interior is Gothic and holds good artworks, including the Volto Santo and the 15th century touching tomb Ilaria del Carretto, a masterpiece by Jacopo della Quercia. Your guided tour will include the highlights of that adorable town: the Renaissance walls, the Amphitheater square, Saint Michael square, the more beautiful and narrow medieval streets until Guinigi tower, cathedral square and of course San Frediano church. Duration: 2 hours. Expect half walking and half riding.


Meals: Breakfast
Venice

Venice

Day 12: Venice

High speed train from Florence to Venice
Shared Train Transfer: Geto on your high speed train to Venice, in comfortable Premium Class. Expected transfer time: 2 hours.


Private transfer by water taxi to your hotel
Boat Transfer: The easier and most convenient way to get to your Venice hotel is by water taxi. Your driver will pick you at the dock in front of the train station and will drop you just in front of your hotel, after navigating the Canal Grande.


Experience Venice from land and sea: Venice boat and walking tour
Excursion: Historical evidence suggest that when Germanic tribes ravaged northern Italy in the 5th century, many mainlanders escaped to this difficult-to-access area on the Adriatic Sea. Over the centuries the refugee community grew into the most powerful trading port in the Mediterranean. At its peak, Venice counted 3.000 trade ships and 300 navy vessels. The result of centuries of constant development are a truly unique city of an unprecedented beauty. This very original private tour, combining one hour guided tour in water taxi and three hours "traditional" walking tour, is designed to give you the best possible Venice discovery experience. Your private guide will show you the most famous sights as well as some charming off the beaten path locations, that only a local would know. You will navigate Canal Grande, the largest canal in town, almost 4 km long and 90-metre-wide in some parts, with an average depth of 5 metres. There are plenty of famous buildings located along the river which is crossed by three stunning bridges, including the world famous Ponte di Rialto. Of course you will see Saint Mark's Basilica, the most famous church in Venice, presenting five round-arched impressive portals as well as a striking marmoreal interior and mosaics. Finally then you will walk through some of the "off the beaten path" sites of this unique city. Your guide will stop to let you taste local delicacies in the"bacari", local bars that offer the typical Venetian aperitif with an “ombra” (small glass of wine) and a “cicchetto” (something typical to eat).


Meals: Breakfast
Venice - Burano

Venice

Day 13: Venice - Burano

Experience the blown glass art in Murano
Excursion: Traditionally, Murano is the center of Venice glass workshops. You can assist to glass blowing demonstrations inside traditional factories and browse the many glass artwork shops all around. Kids love it!


Explore Burano, the colorful island of lace
Excursion: Burano is a charming island in the Venice lagoon, very well known for its brightly colored houses, picturesque canals and peaceful atmosphere and for the long lasting lace tradition. Lace making is a fruitful industry in Burano and you'll find many artisan lace shops on the island. It's a perfect place to experience a different Venice, especially when tourists have gone and you can savor the calm atmosphere of the lagoon. Attractions include the Church of San Martino with its leaning bell tower and the Lace Museum. It is also a very good place to have lunch, some very reputed restaurants are the Gatto Nero and the Trattoria da Romano. It's important to reserve well in advance. (Of course we can do it for you).


Enjoy a romantic gondola ride
Excursion: Your Venice experience wouldn't be complete without a Gondola ride! Gondolas are one of the most iconic symbols of Venice: the entire world knows the silhouette of these elegant Venetian boats plying on the water of the canals of Venice, rowed by the renown gondoliers. Enjoy a 40 minute tour in the smaller canals, departing close to your hotel and be ready with your selfies!


Listen to a Vivaldi concert in a barocco church
Shared Excursion: One of the most popular activities in Venice is to attend a Vivaldi concert. Usually they perform the Four Seasons", which can be appreciated also by the youngest travelers. Concerts are held in barocco churches, and sometimes musicians wear XVIII century costumes.


Meals: Breakfast
Day 14

Venice

Day 14:

Taxi boat transfer from your hotel to Venice airport
Boat Transfer: Based on your flight schedule, your water taxi will pick you at your hotel to get to the airport (on the other side of the lagoon). Have a nice flight home!


Map

Italy in 2 weeks luxury family tour
Italy - 14 Days
from £5,630 per person

Jean Pierre

Plan your personalised tour with our destination expert,

Jean Pierre

from £5,630 per person

Start Date

//

Trips to Italy need to be planned at least 4 weeks before departure, as accommodation and experiences book up quickly.

Travellers

Accommodation

Receive a free quote from your local travel agency within 48 hours by e-mail. No obligation to purchase.

Book with confidence