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12-Day Culinary and Cultural Journey Through Italy's Nature

Viewed by 77 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bar del Cavaliere

Start your Roman adventure with a classic cornetto and cappuccino at this local favorite.
Walk to the Colosseum, about 15 minutes.
EUR7, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Colosseum

Step inside the iconic Colosseum, learning about its grand history and architecture.
Advance ticket recommended to skip the line.
EUR18, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Teo

Indulge in homemade pasta and fresh local vegetables in the heart of Trastevere.
Take a short tram to Trastevere, about 20 minutes.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit St. Peter's Basilica

Marvel at the stunning interiors and climb the dome for breathtaking views of the Vatican City.
Metro back toward the Vatican, about 30 minutes.
EUR10, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Walk in the Vatican Gardens

Experience a peaceful stroll through the Vatican's lush gardens, away from the crowds.
Book a guided tour ahead of time.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Osteria Bonelli

Savor authentic Roman dishes such as cacio e pepe in a family-run restaurant.
Short walk back to the city center.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 2: Art and Culture in Rome

Rome, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Regoli

Enjoy a traditional Roman pastry known as a maritozzo, filled with cream.
Walk to your next destination, about 15 minutes.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore the Vatican Museums

Dive into Italian art history and see masterpieces, including the Sistine Chapel.
Book tickets beforehand for entrance at 9 AM.
EUR17, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Il Pagliaccio

A Michelin-starred lunch for those who love innovative Italian cuisine.
Walk or take a short taxi ride, about 15 minutes.
EUR50, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Pantheon

Explore this ancient temple, a masterpiece of architecture and art.
A leisurely walk, about 15 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Gelato at Giolitti

Experience some of the best gelato in Rome at this historic gelateria.
Walk back towards Piazza Navona, about 10 minutes.
EUR5, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Evening Walk in Trastevere

Wander the charming streets of Trastevere, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.
Just stroll through the beautiful streets.
Free, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Da Enzo al 29

Enjoy homestyle Roman cooking at this popular trattoria.
Short walk from your evening stroll.
EUR25, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Rome

Day 3: Florence - Renaissance Art

Florence, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Caffè Gilli

Start your day with a delicious Florentine brioche in this historic café.
Take a train from Rome to Florence, about 1.5 hours.
EUR7, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit the Uffizi Gallery

Immerse yourself in Italian Renaissance masterpieces by Botticelli and Da Vinci.
A short walk from Caffè Gilli, about 10 minutes.
EUR20, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Dine on traditional Tuscan dishes, served in a cozy atmosphere.
Walking distance from Uffizi, about 5 minutes.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Accademia Gallery

See Michelangelo's David and other remarkable sculptures.
Walking about 15 minutes.
EUR12, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Explore the Ponte Vecchio

Wander across this iconic bridge lined with shops selling jewelry and art.
Short walk towards the riverbank.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Trattoria Mario

Enjoy hearty Tuscan food in a lively, family-run eatery.
A 10-minute walk from Ponte Vecchio.
EUR25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Florence - Tuscan Countryside

Florence, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at La Ménagère

Enjoy a delightful breakfast in this unique café and flower shop.
Walk to the train station, about 15 minutes.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Day Trip to Chianti

Experience a wine tour in the beautiful Chianti region, sampling local wines.
Book a guided tour with pickup.
EUR90, 6 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Florence

Enjoy a scenic ride back to Florence from Chianti.
Part of the wine tour.
Included, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Visit Palazzo Vecchio

Explore this historic town hall filled with artwork and impressive rooms.
Walk back to central Florence, about 15 minutes.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at La Giostra

Treat yourself to exquisite Tuscan cuisine in this charming restaurant.
Walk back to the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Cinque Terre Adventure

Cinque Terre, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before exploring Cinque Terre.
Train ride from Florence to Riomaggiore, about 2.5 hours.
Included, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Hiking Between Villages

Hike the scenic trail from Riomaggiore to Manarola, enjoying breathtaking coastal views.
Start the trail at Riomaggiore.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30 AM

Explore Manarola

Spend time wandering the picturesque streets and colorful harbor.
Walk around the village.
Free, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Nessun Dorma

Savor your lunch with incredible views of Manarola's cliffs and sea.
Walk to Nessun Dorma, about 15 minutes.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Continue to Corniglia

Hike to Corniglia, the charming village perched on the cliffs.
Follow the walking trail.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit Vernazza

Explore Vernazza and its small harbor, perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
Take the train from Corniglia to Vernazza, about 5 minutes.
EUR4, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Belforte

Dine on fresh seafood with stunning views overlooking the sea.
Short walk from the train station.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 6: More of Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a fresh breakfast to start the day early.
Stroll to the local bakery for extra treats.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Kayaking Tour of the Coast

Experience Cinque Terre from a new perspective while paddling along the coastline.
Book a kayaking tour in advance.
EUR50, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a local pizzeria

Dig into authentic pizza at one of the local joints.
Walk to a nearby pizzeria.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Explore Monterosso al Mare

Relax on the beach or visit the old town for shopping and sightseeing.
Take the train to Monterosso, about 5 minutes.
EUR4, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Riomaggiore

Enjoy a scenic train ride back to your base in Riomaggiore.
Train back from Monterosso.
EUR4, 30 minutes

7:30 PM

Dinner at La Lampara

End your day with dinner featuring local seafood delicacies.
A brief walk from your hotel.
EUR30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Cinque Terre

Day 7: Bologna: Food Capital

Bologna, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Caffè Terzi

Start your day with delicious coffee and pastries in this local café.
Train from Cinque Terre to Bologna, about 3 hours.
EUR7, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Walking Tour of Bologna

Join a local guide and explore the rich history and culture of the city.
Meet at the main square.
EUR20, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Mercato di Mezzo

Sample local delicacies and seasonal produce in this vibrant market.
Walking distance from the walking tour, about 5 minutes.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Attend a Pasta Cooking Class

Learn how to make fresh pasta from scratch with a talented local chef.
Participate in a pre-booked class at a local culinary school.
EUR70, 3 hours

5:00 PM

Indulge in Gelato at Cremeria Funivia

Treat yourself to delicious gelato at one of Bologna's best ice cream parlors.
A quick walk, about 10 minutes.
EUR5, 30 minutes

7:00 PM

Dinner at Ristorante Da Cesari

Delight in traditional Bolognese dishes in an intimate setting.
Short walk from your gelato stop.
EUR30, 2 hours
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Day 8: Bologna to Venice

Bologna, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Have a leisurely breakfast before departing for Venice.
Short walk to the train station.
Included, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Train to Venice

Enjoy the scenic ride to the floating city, filled with anticipation.
Train ride takes about 2 hours.
EUR25, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Trattoria Al Gatto Nero

Relish a delightful meal featuring locally caught seafood on Burano island.
Take the Vaporetto from Venice to Burano, about 30 minutes.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Explore Burano

Stroll through the colorful streets and visit local lace shops.
Just walk around the island.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Vaporetto back to Venice

Return to the main island and admire the lagoon views.
Take the Vaporetto back to Venice, about 30 minutes.
EUR10, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Visit St. Mark’s Basilica

Explore the magnificent basilica, known for its stunning mosaics.
Walking distance from the Vaporetto stop, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Osteria alle Testiere

Enjoy a delicious Venetian meal using the freshest seafood available.
Short walk from St. Mark’s Basilica.
EUR45, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Bologna

Day 9: Venice - Canals and Culture

Venice, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pasticceria Dal Mas

Start your day with fresh pastry and coffee at this local gem.
Walking distance from your hotel.
EUR5, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Gondola Ride Through the Canals

Experience the city from the water on a classic gondola ride.
Arrange a gondola ride near your hotel.
EUR80, 30 minutes

10:15 AM

Visit the Doge's Palace

Explore the stunning architecture and history of Venice's former seat of power.
Short walk from the gondola docking area, about 5 minutes.
EUR25, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Antiche Carampane

Savor traditional Venetian cuisine in a charming trattoria.
Walk there in about 10 minutes.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Rialto Market

Engage with local vendors at this bustling market, full of fresh produce and seafood.
A short walk from the restaurant, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Murano

Visit the island famous for its glassmaking; take a glass-blowing demonstration.
Take the Vaporetto to Murano, about 30 minutes.
EUR10, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Return to Venice

Enjoy the ride back while taking in the scenic views.
Vaporetto back to Venice, about 30 minutes.
EUR10, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Osteria Da Fiori

Enjoy an exquisite meal featuring local ingredients and Venetian traditions.
Short walk from your hotel.
EUR40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Venice

Day 10: Venice - Islands and Exploration

Venice, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Relax with a stroll to a nearby café for a Venetian breakfast.
Walk to a local café.
Included, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Torcello

Explore this quiet island known for its beautiful cathedral and natural surroundings.
Take the Vaporetto to Torcello, about 30 minutes.
EUR10, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Locanda Cipriani

Dine at the famed restaurant where famous personalities have enjoyed meals.
Walking distance from the cathedral.
EUR60, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit Burano for a Lace-Making Demonstration

Witness artisan lace-making and understand the craft's significance.
Vaporetto to Burano, about 30 minutes.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Venice

Enjoy the ride back while reflecting on your day’s adventures.
Vaporetto back to Venice, about 30 minutes.
EUR10, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Explore the Jewish Ghetto

Discover the rich history and culture of the Venice Jewish community.
Short walk from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Gam Gam

Enjoy a unique blend of Jewish and Italian cuisine in the heart of the Ghetto.
Short walk from the Ghetto.
EUR30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Venice

Day 11: Lake Como Relaxation

Lake Como, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Start the day with a peaceful breakfast overlooking the lake.
Train from Venice to Varenna, about 3 hours.
Included, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Varenna

Wander through the charming streets and beautiful villas of this lakeside town.
Stroll through the town.
Free, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Ristorante Il Caminetto

Enjoy fresh lake fish delicacies while enjoying stunning views.
Walking distance from town center.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Ferry Ride to Bellagio

Take a scenic ferry ride to Bellagio, enjoying beautiful lake views.
Ferry ride takes about 15 minutes.
EUR10, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Explore Bellagio

Discover this beautiful town's shops, gardens, and breathtaking views.
Walk around the town.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Return Ferry to Varenna

Enjoy the return ride while soaking in the stunning scenery.
Ferry back to Varenna, about 15 minutes.
EUR10, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at La Vista

End your journey with a delightful dinner with panoramic views of Lake Como.
Walking distance from the ferry dock.
EUR35, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Como

Day 12: Departure from Lake Como

Lake Como, Italy

8:00 AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast in Italy while taking in lake views.
Pack your bags and prepare for departure.
Included, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Final exploration of Varenna

Spend your last hours soaking up the peaceful atmosphere and scenery.
Wander through the town or visit nearby gardens.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Cafe Lira

Have a final meal filled with Italian flavors before departing.
Walking distance from your hotel.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Travel to Milan

Make your way to Milan for your departure flight.
Take the train from Varenna to Milan, about 1.5 hours.
EUR10, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Lake Como
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