Rome to Venice

8 Days

Italy

Rome (3), Florence (2), Venice (2)

Overview

Explore the timeless beauty of Italy on this 8-day journey through Rome, Florence, and Venice. Discover the ancient wonders of the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Roman Forum, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Siena and Florence. Experience the craftsmanship of Venice’s famous masks, and learn the art of Italian cooking through hands-on classes. From the historic streets of Rome to the serene canals of Venice, this program promises a cultural adventure like no other.

Route Map

Highlights

Visit the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, two of the most iconic landmarks of Rome.
Walk in the footsteps of gladiators with a tour of the Colosseum and a hands-on Gladiator School experience.
Explore the medieval charm of Siena, including its famous Piazza del Campo.
Learn to make authentic Italian pizza, focaccia, and ice cream during a cooking class in Florence.
Visit the Ferrari Museum in Maranello and discover the history of Italy’s luxury car brand.
Enjoy a guided tour of Venice, including a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica and a workshop on making Venetian masks.
Experience the rich history and cultural significance of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance.

Itinerary

Arrive at Rome Fiumicino Airport and meet your GEC tour director. Begin your adventure with a half-day tour of Baroque Rome, visiting iconic landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. Enjoy a delicious gelato tasting as part of the tour. Afterward, check into your hotel and relax before dinner.
Overnight: Rome

Spend the day exploring Pontifical Rome. Start with a visit to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica. In the afternoon, explore Christian Rome, visiting Saint Paul Outside-the-Walls, walking along the Appian Way, and viewing the Catacombs. End the day with some free time for lunch and a return to the hotel for dinner.
Overnight: Rome

Dive into ancient history with a half-day tour of Imperial Rome, including the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Afterward, participate in a two-hour Gladiator School activity, where you’ll learn about ancient Roman military techniques and get hands-on training. Return to the hotel in the evening for dinner.
Overnight: Rome

Depart early in the morning by coach and head toward Tuscany. Stop at a local agriturismo for lunch and olive oil tasting. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Siena, exploring its medieval streets and famous Piazza del Campo. Continue to Montecatini for check-in and dinner.
Overnight: Montecatini

Travel to Florence for a half-day walking tour of the city. Visit key landmarks such as the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and Piazza della Signoria. In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class where you’ll learn to make traditional Italian pizza, focaccia, and ice cream. Enjoy a tasting of your creations before returning to Montecatini for dinner.
Overnight: Montecatini

Start the day with a visit to the Ferrari Museum in Maranello, where you’ll learn about Italy’s iconic car brand and its history in motor racing. Continue your journey toward Mestre, with a packed lunch provided during the trip. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy dinner.

*Alternatively, groups can forego the Ferrari Museum for a stop in Pisa to the see the famous leaning tour!
Overnight: Mestre

Take a private boat to Venice for a half-day guided tour. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica and explore the surrounding area. In the afternoon, visit an artisanal mask workshop, where you’ll witness the craftsmanship behind Venetian papier-mâché masks. After some free time for lunch, return by boat to Piazzale Tronchetto and transfer back to the hotel.
Overnight: Mestre

Transfer to Venice Marco Polo Airport for your departure, bringing your Italian adventure to an end.
Overnight: Flight