7-Day Italian Art, History & Romantic Canal Journey

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Day 1: Arrival & Florence Highlights

Morning: Arrive in Florence and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading to the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and its breathtaking dome. Take a short stroll to the nearby Piazza della Signoria to admire the historic architecture.

Afternoon: Visit the world‑renowned Uffizi Galleries to see works by Michelangelo and Botticelli, then wander across the romantic Ponte Vecchio to browse its jewelry shops.

Evening: Dine in a traditional trattoria and end the night with a sunset view from Piazzale Michelangelo, offering panoramic vistas of the city’s skyline.

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Day 2: Florence Art & Gardens

Morning: Explore the masterpieces at the Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze, home to the celebrated David sculpture.

Afternoon: Stroll through the elegant Palazzo Pitti and its lush surrounding Boboli Gardens, offering a glimpse of Renaissance luxury.

Evening: Enjoy a relaxed dinner in the Oltrarno district, followed by an evening walk along the river to see the illuminated Ponte di Rialto from across the Arno.

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Day 3: Venice — Canals & History

Morning: Begin with a vaporetto ride to the colorful island of Burano, famed for its bright houses and lace workshops.

Afternoon: Return to the main islands to explore the enchanting Saint Mark's Basilica and the bustling Piazza San Marco, then wander through the luxurious Gallerie Peggy Guggenheim Collection on the Grand Canal.

Evening: Experience a romantic gondola ride under the moonlit Bridge of Sighs and savor a seafood dinner by the Grand Canal.

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Day 4: Venice’s Island Gems

Morning: Visit the glass‑making hub of Murano to watch artisans create delicate glassware.

Afternoon: Wander through the historic Doge's Palace, then stroll across the iconic Ponte di Rialto to browse its market stalls.

Evening: Enjoy a sunset aperitif on the lagoon before heading back to the hotel for a peaceful night.

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Day 5: Rome — Ancient Wonders

Morning: Begin at the magnificent Colosseum, learning of its gladiatorial past, then walk to the adjacent Roman Forum to explore ancient civic life.

Afternoon: Climb the historic Pantheon and toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain for good luck.

Evening: Relax at the lively Piazza Navona, enjoying street performers and a gelato while admiring the fountains.

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Day 6: Vatican & the Heart of Rome

Morning: Visit the spiritual grandeur of Saint Peter’s Basilica and climb to its dome for a panoramic view.

Afternoon: Explore the artistic treasures of the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel frescoes.

Evening: Ascend the Spanish Steps and enjoy an elegant dinner in the vibrant neighborhood of the Palazzo di Spagna.

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Day 7: Finale – Rome's Cultural gems & Departure

Morning: Visit the lavish Castel Sant'Angelo and walk along the Tiber River, then explore the vibrant Piazza del Popolo area.

Afternoon: Enjoy a final lunch near the Piazza San Marco (Roman) area and shop for souvenirs.

Evening: Return to the hotel to pack and depart, carrying memories of Italy’s timeless beauty.

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Time and Cost Estimates

  • Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – 2 hrs – $10
  • Uffizi Galleries – 3 hrs – $20
  • Ponte Vecchio – 1 hr – Free
  • Galleria dell’Accademia di Firenze – 2 hrs – $12
  • David – 30 min – Included
  • Palazzo Pitti – 2 hrs – $15
  • Boboli Gardens – 2 hrs – $10
  • Burano – 4 hrs – $30
  • Saint Mark's Basilica – 1.5 hrs – $8
  • Gallerie Peggy Guggenheim Collection – 2 hrs – $18
  • Bridge of Sighs – 30 min – Free
  • Murano – 3 hrs – $25
  • Doge's Palace – 2.5 hrs – $25
  • Grand Canal – 1 hr – Free
  • Colosseum – 2 hrs – $16
  • Roman Forum – 2 hr – $12
  • Pantheon – 1 hr – Free
  • Trevi Fountain – 30 min – Free
  • Piazza Navona – 1 hr – Free
  • Saint Peter’s Basilica – 2 hr – Free
  • Vatican Museums – 3 hr – $30
  • Sistine Chapel – 30 min – Included
  • Spanish Steps – 1 hr – Free
  • Castel Sant'Angelo – 1.5 hr – $15
  • Piazza del Popolo – 1 hr – Free
  • Piazza San Marco (Rome) – 1 hr – Free
  • Venice (overall transport & food) – 8 days – $800
  • Rome (overall transport & food) – 8 days – $850
  • Florence (transport & food) – 8 days – $750
  • Total estimated cost: $2,800

Tips

If you wish to extend the trip, consider adding a day in Pisa to see the Leaning Tower or a day in Siena for its medieval charm. To shorten the itinerary, you could combine the Venice and Murano trips into one day, or skip the Peggy Guggenheim Collection for a quicker schedule, ensuring you still enjoy the main highlights.

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