3-Day European Itinerary: Zurich, Tuscany & Venice Highlights

Day 1: Explore Zurich

Zurich, Switzerland on September 16, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Sprüngli

Enjoy traditional Swiss pastries and freshly brewed coffee at Café Sprüngli, a famous Zurich establishment known for its Luxemburgerli macarons.
CHF20, 1h

10:30am

Old Town (Altstadt) Walking Tour

Explore Zurich’s charming Old Town with its medieval buildings, quaint alleys, and historic sites such as St. Peter’s Church and Grossmünster church.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Zeughauskeller

Savor traditional Swiss dishes like Zürcher Geschnetzeltes at this historic restaurant housed in a former armory, open daily from 11:30am.
CHF35, 1h

2:30pm

Lake Zurich Promenade

Stroll along the scenic promenades of Lake Zurich, perhaps take a short boat ride to admire the city skyline and surrounding mountains.
Boat ride CHF8-12, 2h

5:00pm

Visit the Kunsthaus Zurich

Discover one of Switzerland’s most important art museums with works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art. Open until 6:00pm on weekdays.
CHF23, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Restaurant Kronenhalle

Dine in an iconic Zurich restaurant known for its traditional Swiss cuisine and artful ambiance filled with original paintings by Chagall and Picasso.
CHF50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Discover Tuscany

Tuscany, Italy on September 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

Begin your day with an Italian espresso and fresh pastries, typical of Tuscan style, at a local café near your accommodation.
EUR8, 30m

9:00am

Visit Florence Cathedral (Duomo)

Marvel at the stunning Renaissance architecture and climb to the dome for panoramic views of Florence. Open 10:00am-5:00pm.
EUR18, 2h

11:30am

Ponte Vecchio and Shopping

Walk across the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge filled with artisan shops offering jewelry and crafts, soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine like ribollita or bistecca alla Fiorentina at this beloved local eatery open 12:00pm-3:00pm.
EUR25, 1h

2:30pm

Chianti Wine Tour

Embark on an afternoon wine tasting tour in the Chianti region to sample famous red wines and learn about Tuscan viticulture.
EUR60, 3h

6:00pm

Walk in Piazza della Signoria

Relax and admire Renaissance statues and the Palazzo Vecchio as the evening sets in, a perfect spot for photographs.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Osteria Vini e Vecchi Sapori

Dine on authentic Tuscan dishes in a cozy setting, highly recommended for its regional specialties and extensive wine list.
EUR40, 1h30m
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Day 3: Venice Highlights

Venice, Italy on September 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Taste Venetian pastries and a rich cappuccino at this famed bakery, a great way to start your day. Open from 7:30am.
EUR10, 30m

9:15am

St. Mark’s Basilica

Explore the magnificent basilica with its Byzantine mosaics and ornate architecture. Open 9:30am-5:00pm, arriving early helps avoid crowds.
Free (museum section EUR5), 1h30m

11:00am

Doge’s Palace Tour

Visit this historic palace to learn about Venetian history and see beautiful art and architecture. Open 9:00am-7:00pm.
EUR25, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Osteria alle Testiere

Enjoy fresh seafood and Venetian specialties at this widely acclaimed, intimate osteria near St. Mark’s Square. Reservations recommended.
EUR45, 1h30m

2:45pm

Gondola Ride

Take a classic gondola ride through Venice’s canals to experience the city from the water. Rides typically last 30-40 minutes.
EUR80 per gondola (up to 6 people), 45m

4:00pm

Explore Rialto Market

Wander through the bustling market known for fresh produce and seafood, and browse nearby shops along the Grand Canal.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Antiche Carampane

Savor Venetian dishes like cuttlefish risotto in this well-regarded, authentic trattoria. Opens for dinner at 6:00pm.
EUR50, 1h30m
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