A Scenic and Cultural Italy and Surroundings Tour from Venice Over 32 Days

Day 1: Venice Arrival

Venice, Italy on December 23, 2024

3:00pm

Check-in and Venetian Stroll

Arrive in Venice, check into your accommodation and take an afternoon stroll through St. Mark’s Square and along the canals to soak in the unique Venetian atmosphere.
0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Osteria Alle Testiere

Enjoy fresh seafood with a Venetian twist at this intimate and highly regarded local restaurant. Open daily from 12pm-3pm and 6:30pm-11pm.
EUR45, 1h30m

Day 2: Venice Culture Day

Venice, Italy on December 24, 2024

9:00am

Breakfast at Pasticceria Tonolo

Start your day with traditional Venetian pastries and coffee at this famed local bakery open from 7am-7pm.
EUR8, 0h45m

10:00am

Doges' Palace and Bridge of Sighs

Explore the magnificent Doges' Palace, a symbol of Venice’s political history, and cross the famous Bridge of Sighs. Open 9am-7pm.
EUR25, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria Al Gazzettino

Taste hearty Venetian cuisine in a hearty atmosphere just a short walk from St. Mark’s. Open 12pm-3pm and 7pm-11pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Rialto Market and Gondola Ride

Visit Rialto Market to see Venetian daily life and then enjoy a classic gondola ride through the canals.
EUR80, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Antiche Carampane

Savour authentic Venetian dishes emphasizing fresh seafood. Open from 12:30pm to 3pm and 7pm to 11pm.
EUR50, 1h30m

Day 3: Venice to Verona

Venice to Verona, Italy on December 25, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing Venice.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Train to Verona

Take a direct train from Venice Santa Lucia to Verona Porta Nuova, approximately 1h15m travel time.
EUR20, 1h15m

11:00am

Verona Arena and Piazza Bra

Visit the ancient Roman amphitheatre and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza Bra, the heart of the city. Arena open 8:30am-7:30pm.
EUR10, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Osteria Le Vecete

Delicious regional cuisine in a charming setting in Verona. Open 12pm-2:30pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Juliet’s House

Discover the romantic legend of Romeo and Juliet by visiting the famous balcony and museum, open 8:30am-7:30pm on Christmas Day.
EUR6, 1h0m

5:00pm

Evening Walk at Castel San Pietro

Enjoy panoramic views of Verona and the surrounding landscape from this hilltop fortress.
0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante 12 Apostoli

Classic Veronese dishes served in an elegant historic locale. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 4: Lake Garda Nature

Lake Garda, Italy on December 26, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel Verona

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before a day exploring Lake Garda.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive or Train to Lake Garda

Travel west to the picturesque town of Sirmione on Lake Garda; train plus short taxi or car drive (about 1h).
EUR15, 1h30m

11:00am

Explore Sirmione and Scaliger Castle

Visit the medieval Scaliger Castle and stroll through Sirmione’s charming streets. Castle open 9am-5pm.
EUR6, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria La Fiasca

Lakefront dining with typical Lombardy dishes. Open 12pm-3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

3:00pm

Lake Garda Boat Ride

Enjoy a relaxing boat tour around the lake to see the natural beauty of the area. Tours usually last 2 hours.
EUR25, 2h0m

6:00pm

Return to Verona

Travel back to Verona for overnight stay.
EUR15, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Locanda 4 Cuochi

Contemporary Italian cuisine with local ingredients near Verona city centre. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 5: Verona to Florence

Verona to Florence, Italy on December 27, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast in Verona before travelling to Florence.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Train to Florence

Take a direct high-speed train from Verona to Florence, approximately 2h15m journey.
EUR35, 2h15m

12:00pm

Lunch at Trattoria Mario

Famous for its Tuscan home cooking, Trattoria Mario is a perfect introduction to Florence’s culinary scene. Open 12pm-3pm.
EUR20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Florence Cathedral and Baptistery

Admire Renaissance architecture by visiting the Duomo and its Baptistery. Open 10am-4:30pm on this day.
EUR18, 2h0m

4:00pm

Ponte Vecchio and Artisan Shops

Walk along the historic old bridge and browse artisan jewellery shops along the sides.
0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Giostra

Enjoy authentic Tuscan cuisine with a cosy atmosphere. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR45, 1h30m

Day 6: Florence Cultural Day

Florence, Italy on December 28, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Ditta Artigianale

Start with excellent coffee and pastries in a modern café open from 7am-7pm.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:00am

Uffizi Gallery

Visit the Uffizi, one of the most important art museums in the world showcasing Renaissance masterpieces. Open 8:15am-6:50pm.
EUR25, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Mercato Centrale

Enjoy diverse and tasty local dishes at this vibrant indoor market.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Boboli Gardens

Explore this historic park behind Pitti Palace with incredible views and sculptures. Open 8:15am-4:30pm in winter.
EUR13, 2h0m

5:00pm

Gelato at Gelateria La Carraia

Enjoy some of the best gelato in Florence, open until 11pm.
EUR5, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Il Latini

Traditional Tuscan dining in a lively atmosphere, famous for hearty portions. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 7: Florence to Rome

Florence to Rome, Italy on December 29, 2024

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Grab a quick breakfast before departure.
Included, 0h45m

8:00am

Train to Rome

Take a high-speed train to Rome, approximately 1h30m journey time.
EUR40, 1h30m

10:00am

Check-in and Rest

Check into your accommodation and take a short rest.
0, 1h0m

11:30am

Colosseum and Roman Forum

Visit Rome’s icon, the Colosseum, and roam the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum. Open 9am-4:30pm.
EUR18, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Trattoria Luzzi

Enjoy classic Roman dishes close to the Colosseum, open 12pm-3pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

4:00pm

Piazza Navona and Pantheon

Wander around Piazza Navona before visiting the Pantheon. Both are open and free during daylight hours in winter.
EUR3 (Pantheon entrance), 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Osteria da Fortunata

Taste fresh handmade pasta in an authentic Roman setting. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 8: Vatican & Rome

Rome, Italy on December 30, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Panella

Enjoy traditional pastries in this historic bakery open from 7am-8pm.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:00am

Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

Visit one of the world’s greatest art collections, including Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes. Booking ahead recommended. Open 9am-6pm.
EUR30, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Arlù

Enjoy a meal near the Vatican with Roman specialties. Open 12pm-3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

St. Peter’s Basilica

Explore the breathtaking basilica, open 9am-6pm with free entry. Option to climb the dome for EUR10.
0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Walk along the Tiber River

Relax with a scenic walk along the Tiber toward Castel Sant’Angelo.
0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Trattoria da Enzo

Cozy Roman trattoria known for homemade pasta. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 9: Ancient Rome & New Year

Rome, Italy on December 31, 2024

8:00am

Breakfast at Sciascia Caffè 1919

Historic cafe in Rome offering great coffee and pastries, open 7am-7pm.
EUR10, 0h45m

9:00am

Palatine Hill and Capitoline Museums

Explore the Palatine Hill ruins and the Capitoline Museums for ancient history and art. Museums open 9am-7pm.
EUR17, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at La Carbonara

Savour excellent carbonara and other classic dishes. Open 12pm-3pm.
EUR30, 1h0m

2:00pm

Relax or optional shopping

Take some free time to rest or browse boutiques near Piazza di Spagna.
0, 3h0m

6:00pm

New Year’s Eve Dinner at Il Margutta RistorArte

Fine dining vegetarian and Italian fusion in an artistic setting, with special New Year’s Eve menu. Reservations essential. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR90, 3h0m

10:30pm

New Year’s Eve Celebration at Piazza del Popolo

Join the celebrations and fireworks in Rome’s festive main square.
0, 2h0m

Day 10: Leisure & Departure Rome to Naples

Rome to Naples, Italy on January 1, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast after New Year celebrations.
Included, 1h0m

10:30am

Train to Naples

Travel south by high-speed train to Naples, approximately 1h10m journey.
EUR35, 1h10m

12:00pm

Check-in and Lunch near Naples Central Station

Check into your accommodation and have lunch at 'Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo' famous for authentic Neapolitan pizza. Open 11am-11pm.
EUR15, 1h0m

2:00pm

Naples Historic Centre Walk

Explore UNESCO World Heritage centre including the Naples Cathedral, Piazza del Plebiscito, and Spaccanapoli street.
0, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Trattoria Nennella

Experience lively traditional Neapolitan dining with local favourites. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 11: Pompeii & Amalfi Coast

Pompeii / Amalfi Coast, Italy on January 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel Naples

Breakfast before an early excursion.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Train and Bus to Pompeii

Take Circumvesuviana train to Pompeii for a visit of the archaeological site (approx. 30min). Open 9am-5pm.
EUR18, 1h0m

9:00am

Pompeii Ruins

Explore the remarkably preserved ancient city frozen in time after Vesuvius eruption in 79 AD.
EUR18, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Caupona Pompeii

Lunch near the Pompeii site with Roman-inspired dishes. Open 12pm-3pm.
EUR25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Drive to Amalfi Coast

Pick up a rental car and drive towards the Amalfi Coast, enjoying scenic coastal roads.
EUR70 (car rental), 1h30m

4:00pm

Positano Exploration

Explore the picturesque town of Positano with its colourful cliffside buildings and beach.
0, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Pergola

Relax with seafood and Mediterranean cuisine with stunning views in Positano. Open 7pm-10:30pm.
EUR60, 1h30m

Day 12: Amalfi Coast Drive & Nature

Amalfi Coast, Italy on January 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy breakfast with a view of the Amalfi coastline.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to Amalfi and Ravello

Drive along the dramatic coastal road to Amalfi, then onward to Ravello to visit beautiful villas and gardens.
EUR10 (Villa Rufolo entrance), 4h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Ristorante Eolo Amalfi

Enjoy refined Mediterranean dishes with a sea view. Open 12pm-3pm.
EUR50, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk the Path of the Gods

Take this famous hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the Amalfi Coast. Spring weather in January can be mild but check conditions.
0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel or Local Trattoria

Enjoy a relaxed dinner after your hike, many excellent options available in Amalfi or your hotel.
EUR35, 1h30m

Day 13: Tuscan Countryside

Amalfi Coast to Tuscany, Italy on January 4, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast and Early Departure

Breakfast and then drive north towards Tuscany, about a 5-hour journey; consider stops en route.
Fuel approx. EUR60, 5h0m

12:00pm

Lunch Stop in Orvieto

Break journey with lunch and visit to Orvieto Cathedral, an architectural gem. Open 9am-5pm.
EUR5, 1h30m

5:00pm

Arrive in Tuscany - Stay near Siena

Check into a countryside agriturismo for peace and Tuscan charm.
Varies, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Agriturismo Restaurant

Enjoy traditional Tuscan home-cooked meals from local ingredients, offering a relaxed rural atmosphere.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 14: Tuscany Wine & Nature

Tuscany, Italy on January 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Agriturismo

Enjoy a fresh farm-to-table breakfast with local produce.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Wine Tour in Chianti

Spend the morning visiting wineries in the Chianti region, learning about viticulture and tasting renowned wines. Book a guided tour for best experience.
EUR60, 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Castello di Verrazzano Winery

Lunch paired with wine tasting in a historic castle vineyard. Open 12pm-3pm weekdays.
EUR50, 1h30m

3:00pm

Village Visits - Greve and Castellina

Explore picturesque historic villages in Chianti with quaint squares and artisan shops.
0, 2h30m

6:00pm

Return to Agriturismo & Relax

Enjoy the peaceful Tuscan evening back at your accommodation.
0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Agriturismo

Another delicious home-cooked Tuscan meal completes your day.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 15: Siena & Medieval Town

Siena, Italy on January 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Agriturismo

Start your day with a fresh Tuscan breakfast.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel to Siena

Drive or take a short bus ride to Siena, approximately 45 minutes.
EUR10, 0h45m

10:30am

Siena Cathedral and Piazza del Campo

Visit the stunning Gothic cathedral and the famous shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, open generally 10am-5pm.
EUR15, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Antica Osteria da Divo

Enjoy local Sienese cuisine in a unique historic setting, open 12pm-3pm.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Museo Civico di Siena

Explore Siena’s rich art and history collection, located in the Palazzo Pubblico. Open 10am-7pm.
EUR8, 1h30m

5:00pm

Evening Walk in Old Town

Relax with a leisurely walk through Siena’s beautiful medieval streets.
0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Taverna di San Giuseppe

Traditional Tuscan restaurant with warm atmosphere and specialties like wild boar. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 16: Tuscany to Dolomites

Tuscany to Dolomites, Italy on January 7, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast and Departure

Enjoy breakfast before a longer drive heading north to the Dolomites region.
Fuel approx. EUR70, 7h0m

12:00pm

Lunch Stop in Verona

Pause the drive with lunch near Verona, perhaps at Locanda 4 Cuochi, for fast recharging.
EUR35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Continue to the Dolomites

Resume your scenic drive into the Dolomite mountains.
0, 4h0m

6:00pm

Check-in in Ortisei or Nearby Village

Arrive in the Dolomites and settle into mountain accommodation.
Varies, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hotel or local restaurant

Enjoy Tyrolean style mountain cuisine in a cosy atmosphere.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 17: Dolomites Nature & Culture

Dolomites, Italy on January 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Hearty alpine breakfast to prepare for the day’s outdoor activities.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Hike Seceda and Surroundings

Take the cable car and explore easy to moderate hiking trails with stunning mountain views in the Seceda area.
EUR30 (cable car return), 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Rifugio Firenze

Mountain refuge serving typical alpine dishes with panoramic views.
EUR25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Val Gardena Museums

Explore local culture, art, and woodworking traditions with small museums in Ortisei.
EUR10, 2h0m

6:00pm

Relax in Spa or Walk Village

Relax with a spa treatment or enjoy the village atmosphere in the evening.
EUR50 if spa, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Tubladel

Enjoy a hearty Tyrolean meal of speck and dumplings in cozy surroundings.
EUR40, 1h30m

Day 18: Return to Venice

Dolomites to Venice, Italy on January 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Departure

Enjoy a last morning in the Dolomites before driving back south toward Venice.
Fuel approx. EUR50, 5h0m

1:00pm

Lunch Stop en Route

Pause lunch in a small town on the way, such as Belluno.
EUR20, 1h0m

6:00pm

Arrive Venice and Check-in

Return to Venice for your final stay and prepare for departure.
Varies, 0h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Ristorante Quadri

Dine on traditional Venetian cuisine in a Michelin-starred setting overlooking St. Mark’s Square. Open 7pm-11pm.
EUR80, 1h30m

Day 19: Venice Leisure & Departure

Venice, Italy on January 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Venice savoring the ambiance.
Included, 1h0m

9:00am

Peggy Guggenheim Collection

Explore modern art on the Grand Canal. Open 10am-6pm Tuesdays to Sundays.
EUR15, 2h0m

11:30am

Lunch at All’Arco

Small traditional eatery known for cicchetti (Venetian tapas). Open 11:30am-3pm.
EUR20, 1h0m

1:00pm

Leisure time and shopping

Relax or shop for Venetian glass and souvenirs.
Varies, 3h0m

Day 20: Departure Day

Venice, Italy on January 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Final breakfast and hotel check-out.
Included, 1h0m

10:00am

Transfer to Airport

Head to Venice Marco Polo Airport for your departure flight.
Taxi EUR40, 1h0m