10-Day Cultural Expedition: Toronto to Italy - Discover Rome and Venice

Day 1: Explore Ancient Rome

Rome, Italy on April 8, 2025

9:00AM

Colosseum Tour

Visit the iconic Colosseum, where ancient gladiators once battled, and discover its fascinating history. A guided tour offers insights into its remarkable architecture.
EUR18, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Trattoria Da Enzo

Enjoy authentic Roman cuisine at this beloved trattoria. Try the classic Cacio e Pepe pasta, known for its simplicity and rich flavor.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Roman Forum

Stroll through the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Rome, full of ruins that speak to the city’s glorious past.
EUR12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Palatine Hill Exploration

Climb Palatine Hill for stunning views and the opportunity to see the birthplace of Rome, rich with ancient ruins.
Included in Forum ticket, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Osteria Da Fortunata

Indulge in handmade pasta and traditional Roman dishes in a cozy atmosphere right in the heart of Trastevere.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Vatican Wonders

Rome, Italy on April 9, 2025

8:00AM

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour

Marvel at the vast collection of art in the Vatican Museums, concluding with Michelangelo’s breathtaking Sistine Chapel.
EUR30, 3 hours

11:30AM

St. Peter's Basilica

Explore this magnificent basilica's stunning architecture and artwork, and consider climbing to the dome for breathtaking views of the city.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pizzarium

Savor some of the best pizza al taglio in Rome, with a variety of toppings to choose from, perfect for a quick meal.
EUR10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Borgo Pio Walk

Stroll the charming streets of Borgo Pio, visiting quaint shops and cafes while enjoying the local atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Il Margutta RistorArte

Dine in this artistic vegetarian restaurant near the Spanish Steps, offering a creative menu that combines health and flavor.
EUR35, 2 hours
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Day 3: More Rome Adventures

Rome, Italy on April 10, 2025

9:00AM

Pantheon Visit

Visit the beautifully preserved Pantheon, known for its impressive dome and oculus. Entry is free, but you may have to wait.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Piazza Navona

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Piazza Navona, filled with street performers, artists, and beautiful fountains.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at La Sagrestia

Taste traditional Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients in a cozy restaurant setting.
EUR18, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Galleria Borghese

Explore the art collection in Galleria Borghese, home to masterpieces by Caravaggio and Bernini in a beautiful villa setting.
EUR15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Walk the Spanish Steps

Climb the Spanish Steps for a popular gathering place and great views of the city and the nearby Trinità dei Monti.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Aroma

Enjoy upscale dining with a rooftop view of the Colosseum, presenting an elegant menu that combines Italian and modern influences.
EUR50, 2 hours
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Day 4: Cultural Exploration

Rome, Italy on April 11, 2025

9:00AM

Appian Way Cycling Tour

Rent a bike and explore the ancient Appian Way, visiting catacombs and archaeological sites along the way.
EUR20, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at HostariaAntica

Relish in Roman-style dishes served with a warm atmosphere, allowing you to enjoy local flavors.
EUR15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Campo de' Fiori Market

Visit this bustling market known for its fresh produce, local delicacies, and vibrant atmosphere.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Teatro dell'Opera di Roma

Catch a performance or just appreciate this historic opera house's stunning architecture.
EUR45, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at La Pergola

Dine at Rome’s only three-Michelin-star restaurant, known for exquisite flavors and an unforgettable dining experience.
EUR150, 3 hours
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Day 5: Travel to Venice

Venice, Italy on April 12, 2025

9:00AM

Train to Venice

Catch a morning train from Rome to Venice that takes about 3.5 hours. The views are stunning as you approach the canals.
EUR40, 4 hours (including travel)

1:00PM

Check-in at Hotel Antiche Figure

Check into this charming hotel located near the Grand Canal, known for its comfortable rooms and excellent service.
EUR100 per night, 1 hour

2:00PM

Lunch at Trattoria Al Gatto Nero

Enjoy fresh seafood and traditional Venetian dishes in Burano, famous for its colorful houses.
EUR25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Murano Island

Visit Murano, famous for its glass-making, and observe artisans at work in the glass factories.
Free (glass factory demos might have a fee), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Osteria alle Testiere

Savor delicious seafood at this quaint restaurant, praised for its fresh ingredients and intimate setting.
EUR45, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Venetian Exploration

Venice, Italy on April 13, 2025

9:00AM

St. Mark's Basilica

Visit St. Mark's Basilica, renowned for its stunning mosaics and impressive architecture. Entry is free but donations are appreciated.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Doge's Palace Tour

Explore the opulent rooms and learn about the history of Venice at the Doge's Palace, a beautiful historic site.
EUR25, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Antico Martini

Dine at this historic restaurant, known for its exquisite Venetian cuisine, offering a classic atmosphere.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Gondola Ride

Experience Venice from the water by taking a classic gondola ride through the city's winding canals.
EUR80 for two, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Rialto Bridge Walk

Walk across the iconic Rialto Bridge, one of Venice’s most famous landmarks, offering beautiful views of the Grand Canal.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Alle Testiere

Enjoy a delicious dinner of fresh seafood in a warm, intimate setting, perfect for tasting traditional Venetian dishes.
EUR50, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Arts & Culture

Venice, Italy on April 14, 2025

9:00AM

Accademia Gallery

Visit the Accademia Gallery to appreciate Venetian art from the 14th to 18th centuries, featuring prominent works by renowned artists.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:00AM

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Explore the modern art collection at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, housed in a beautiful historic palace on the Grand Canal.
EUR15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Caffè Florian

Indulge in a luxurious lunch at this historic café, known for its elegant atmosphere and menu of Italian classics.
EUR40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Walk Through the Jewish Ghetto

Discover Venice's Jewish Ghetto, one of the oldest in the world, filled with history and culture.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Osteria da Fiore

Treat yourself to a gourmet dining experience with a focus on fresh local ingredients and Venetian dishes.
EUR60, 2 hours
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Day 8: Final Day in Venice

Venice, Italy on April 15, 2025

9:00AM

Visit Santa Maria della Salute

Marvel at this stunning baroque church known for its impressive dome and beautiful interior.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration

Learn about traditional glass blowing in Murano with a live demonstration from skilled artisans.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ristorante Le Beccherie

Enjoy a delicious meal at this historic restaurant, famous for its traditional risotto and tiramisu.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shopping at Mercerie

Explore the Mercerie, a collection of shops offering Venetian masks, glassware, and souvenirs.
Variable, 2 hours

5:00PM

Final Dinner at Da Fiore

Savor a last romantic dinner with a mix of traditional and modern Venetian dishes, in a beautiful setting with top-notch service.
EUR90, 2 hours
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Day 9: Return to Rome

Rome, Italy on April 16, 2025

9:00AM

Train back to Rome

Take a morning train back to Rome, enjoying the last views of the beautiful Italian countryside.
EUR40, 4 hours (including travel)

1:00PM

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Visit this bustling food market with a variety of vendors offering fresh local dishes and delicacies.
EUR20, 2 hours

3:00PM

Relax in Villa Borghese

Spend a leisurely afternoon in Villa Borghese, Rome's largest park, perfect for a stroll or a picnic.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Trattoria Al Pompiere

Choose from classic Roman dishes in a charming setting, known for its warm hospitality.
EUR20, 2 hours
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Day 10: Departure

Rome, Italy on April 17, 2025

8:00AM

Pack and Check-out

Prepare for your journey back home and check out of your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

9:30AM

Head to Airport

Take a taxi or public transport to Fiumicino Airport for your flight back to Toronto.
EUR30, 1 hour
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