Morning: Arrive at Puglia Airport and transfer to Montepulciano. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely walk in the historic town center, soaking in the Renaissance architecture.
Afternoon: Visit the Contucci Winery, one of Montepulciano’s most popular vineyards. Enjoy an informative wine tour and tasting showcasing the region's famous Vino Nobile, with beautiful vineyard views. Cost: approx. €20-30 per person.
Evening: Dine at a local trattoria or buy fresh ingredients from a nearby supermarket for a budget-friendly homemade meal. Evening stroll around Piazza Grande to admire historic sites illuminated at night.
Find HotelsMorning: Explore the ancient Medici Fortress and enjoy panoramic views over the Val d'Orcia countryside. Take an early morning hike around scenic trails near the town.
Afternoon: Visit the Avignonesi Vineyard, another top vineyard renowned for organic wines. Participate in a guided wine tasting session coupled with local snacks. Cost: approximately €25 per person.
Evening: Relax at your accommodation or try budget-friendly local dishes at a casual eatery. Supermarkets offer excellent options for picnics if preferred.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Montepulciano and travel to Florence. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and begin with a visit to the Duomo Cathedral and its iconic dome.
Afternoon: Explore the Uffizi Gallery to see Renaissance masterpieces. Booking tickets in advance helps save money and avoids long queues.
Evening: Walk along the Arno River and enjoy a budget-friendly dinner near Ponte Vecchio. Option to shop for snacks at local supermarkets.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the Palazzo Pitti and the adjacent Boboli Gardens for a mix of art and nature in a quiet setting away from crowds.
Afternoon: Take a walk up to Michelangelo Square for stunning views of Florence’s skyline and photo opportunities.
Evening: Enjoy a casual family dinner with ingredients from a supermarket or try affordable street food like lampredotto sandwiches.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel to Venice. Check into accommodation and start exploring St. Mark’s Square and Basilica di San Marco. Entry to the basilica is free, but some areas have fees.
Afternoon: Visit the Doge's Palace to dive deep into Venice’s history. Consider combined tickets for savings.
Evening: Try simple budget meals at bacari (Venetian tapas bars) or purchase fresh ingredients at supermarkets for a quiet meal.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a scenic vaporetto ride along the Grand Canal to admire the city's unique architecture.
Afternoon: Explore the Rialto Market and enjoy local delicacies and ambiance. Great place for casual, affordable snacks.
Evening: Walk through the quieter neighborhoods of Dorsoduro and enjoy the sunset near the Zattere waterfront.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel from Venice to Sestri Levante, a picturesque Ligurian seaside town. Check into accommodation and relax at the Bay of Silence.
Afternoon: Spend time at the beach or stroll the charming town streets, enjoying Ligurian culture and scenery.
Evening: Eat at a local pizzeria or assemble a meal with supermarket finds for a cost-effective option.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the historic old town and churches, including Santa Maria di Nazareth.
Afternoon: Take a short trip to the nearby Portofino Nature Park for gentle hiking and seaside views.
Evening: Enjoy fresh seafood or local Ligurian specialties at a family-friendly restaurant, mindful of budget.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel back to Puglia. If time allows, stop at small villages along the way to explore authentic southern Italian culture.
Afternoon: Relax at your accommodation or visit nearby beaches renowned for their clear waters and natural beauty.
Evening: Prepare simple meals with supermarket ingredients or dine modestly in local eateries to maintain a budget.
Find HotelsMorning: The additional young adult joins. Plan a special wine tour in Puglia, visiting a top vineyard such as Castello Monaci featuring tours and tastings of robust regional reds. Cost: approx. €20-30 per person.
Afternoon: Explore Alberobello’s trulli houses, a UNESCO World Heritage site with unique architecture and history.
Evening: Celebrate the reunion with a memorable but budget-conscious meal in a local trattoria or homemade feast.
Find HotelsMorning: Enjoy a relaxed morning at the accommodation or a local park to soak in the peaceful ambiance before departure.
Afternoon: Pack up and travel to Puglia Airport for your flight back to London, reflecting on the diverse experiences of your Italian adventure.
Evening: Onboard your flight home, rest and plan future travels.
Find HotelsTo extend the trip, consider spending extra days in Tuscany to explore additional vineyards or add day trips to nearby towns such as Siena or Pisa. For a shorter trip, focus on two regions like Tuscany and Venice only, allowing deeper exploration without feeling rushed. Utilize supermarkets frequently for meals to stay on budget and consider traveling by train between major cities to reduce costs.