Ultimate Italy

Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities until tonight's welcome meeting.

Included Experiences

• Meet Your CEO and Group: Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.

Optional Experiences

• Colosseum Visit: Enjoy a guided tour of this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Learn from your expert guide and you wander the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please!
• Sistine Chapel : Although the Sistine Chapel is always very crowded, it is a must-see for any visitor to the Vatican. The magnificent frescoed ceiling of the chapel painted by Michelangelo depicts over 300 figures from the Book of Genesis, the most well-known being “The Creation of Adam,” showing God touching the finger of Adam. “The Last Judgment” on the west wall depicts a scene from the Book of Revelations. Art aficionados, get ready to cross one of your list! (20-25 EUR per person)
• Borghese Gallery: Take a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.

Enjoy a G Adventures supported migrant led walk of Rome before enjoying a free day to explore a myriad of options. Opt to tour Vatican City, cross the river to charming Trastevere, eat some gelato in Piazza Navona, or swing by the Colosseum and Forum.

Included Experiences

• Migrantour Rome: Learn all about a different side of Rome with a newcomer to Italy as your guide with Migrantour, a social enterprise that trains immigrants to give tours of the city - with their own flair. G Adventures travellers receive a unique experience as guides give them rare insight into Italian society through an immigrant's eyes. From ancient landmarks to the history of migration to Rome, expect this to be a guided tour like no other.
• Free Time: With heaps to see and do, don't waste a minute in the Eternal City.

Optional Experiences

• Vatican City Visit: Get ready to tick something off the bucket list. Visit the smallest country in the world—Vatican City! Stand in St Peter’s Square and be wowed by colossal colonnades, numerous statues, and the obelisk. Opt to take in the magnificence of St Peter’s Basilica, Michelangelo’s Pietá, and the Sistine Chapel while you are in the area.
• Sistine Chapel : Although the Sistine Chapel is always very crowded, it is a must-see for any visitor to the Vatican. The magnificent frescoed ceiling of the chapel painted by Michelangelo depicts over 300 figures from the Book of Genesis, the most well-known being “The Creation of Adam,” showing God touching the finger of Adam. “The Last Judgment” on the west wall depicts a scene from the Book of Revelations. Art aficionados, get ready to cross one of your list! (20-25 EUR per person)
• Borghese Gallery: Take a visit to the beautiful Borghese Gallery villa to indulge in a rich collection of ancient sculptures, relics, mosaics, and paintings. Pieces from Renaissance masters such as Bellini, Raphael, Bernini can be found here.
• Colosseum Visit: Enjoy a guided tour of this famous spot, the scene of many bloody gladiator fights for the entertainment of ancient Rome's aristocracy. Learn from your expert guide and you wander the old venue—a UNESCO World Heritage site—and feel free to walk around on your own. No battles, please!
• Rome Vintage Vespa Tour: When in Rome... live "la dolce vita" and hop onto a Vespa! Make your way around the city (like the locals do) on a vintage Vespa scooter. Visit Rome's must-see landmarks with a local guide, who will also be your Vespa driver, on this 3-4 hour afternoon excursion.

Depart Rome by train then transfer to the town of Pienza for a visit and for some free time to explore. Continue on to Montepulciano in the heart of the Tuscan countryside and enjoy the medieval and renaissance hill town with an orientation walk and a local wine tasting. Montepulciano is famous for producing delectable local pork, cheese, "Pici" pasta, and honey. It is also major wine producing area. Take in the stunning vistas, wander cobbled lanes, or opt to sample the local delicacies in small, family-run establishments.

Included Experiences

• Local Train: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
• Minibus: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
• Orientation Walk Pienza: Visit Pienza with your CEO, a picturesque town in Tuscany which is a blend of Renaissance architecture and culinary delights. Stroll along Corso Rossellino, the main street, lined with charming shops and cafes.
• Orientation walk of Montepeluciano with Wine Tasting: Enjoy a walk with your CEO to get your bearings of this idyllic Tuscan town, and awaken your tastebuds with a wine tasting of some of the region's finest.

Optional Experiences

• Piazza Grande Visit: Make your way to the highest point in town to the Piazza Grande, the centre of day to day life in Montepulciano. You'll find some of the town's most impressive architecture, such as the Palazzo Comunale, and Town Hall. Climb to the tower in the Palazzo Comunale for great views of Lake Trasimeno and Val d'Orcia.
• Bike Rental: Rent a bike from a local shop and head out to explore.

Spend the day in the Italian countryside. The famous wine-producing region is the perfect place for an optional vineyard tour and wine tasting, or a bike ride in the rolling hills. Opt to travel further afield to the thermal springs of Bagni San Filippo.

Included Experiences

• Free Time: Get out and explore this charming town by foot or bicycle.

Optional Experiences

• Montepulciano Wine Tour: Travel outside of Montepulciano through the rolling vineyards to one of the surrounding wineries, such as the legendary Avignonesi estate or Cantina Fattoria della Talosa. Enjoy strolling through the hectares of greenery, indulging in a sample of local wines, and a guided tour of the cellars.
• Bagni San Filippo Thermal Springs: The Tuscan region is known for natural thermal springs. Take a 30min ride out of town to Bagni San Filippo and find yourself in a picturesque setting of calciferous formations, waterfalls, and natural pools; this scene is made more spectacular by the vivid colour of the water made bright blue by effect of the hot springs meeting the cool river water. Sit back, relax, and be healed.
• Bike Rental: Rent a bike from a local shop and head out to explore.

Travel to picturesque Siena. After an orientation walk around this medieval city, opt to visit Torre del Mangia, Battistero, il Campo, or the Duomo or to take a "passeggiata" and meet the Sienese locals. Continue on to Florence and enjoy an evening walk to Piazzale Michelangelo for a fantastic panoramic view of the city. Arrive to the inimitable Firenze. Walk through the city catching a glimpse of the Duomo, Piazza Indipendenza, Piazza della Signoria, and the Ponte Vecchio. Head to Piazzale Michelangelo with your CEO for the most famous and photographed vista of the city.

Included Experiences

• Orientation Walk Siena: Wander through the medieval town of Siena, safely nestled in the heart of Tuscany. Feast your eyes on the gothic architecture while exploring the historic centre, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Piazzale Michelangelo Walk: Cross through the centre of the city and over the Arno. Climb to the top of the hill and check out the vista over the river from Piazzale Michelangelo. It's worth every step!

Optional Experiences

• Ponte Vecchio Visit: Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.
• Il Duomo di Firenze Visit: This green, pink, and white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed. Wander through the cathedral or choose to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and be rewarded with extraordinary views of the city!

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Florence on a guided walking tour this morning. Catch a glimpse of the intricate buildings that make Florence a favourite to travellers the world over, and better understand the rich history and local way of living, then enjoy lunch at the local market. With a free afternoon, the choices are endless. Opt to visit the Duomo, David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, Uffizi Gallery, medieval Ponte Vecchio, or the Medici Chapels, just to name a handful. The afternoon is yours to explore. Check out the Mercato Centrale or any number of cafés and trattorias. If you came to shop, start at one end of the city and just keep going. There's beautiful architecture, famous museums, Renaissance art pieces, and charming cobblestone streets everywhere. If you wish to go further afield, take a wine tasting bike tour up to Fiesole and the vineyards of Chianti.

Included Experiences

• Florence Guided Walking Tour: Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Florence on a guided tour through its iconic streets and landmarks. This immersive experience, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Renaissance. Marvel at the architectural splendor of the Duomo, explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Learn about the city's illustrious past, from its Medici rulers to its world-renowned artists.
• Free Time: There's plenty to see and do in Florence, and we wanted to make sure that you had some time to take it all in. Feel free to relax or try optional activities like a visit to the Uffizi Gallery to see the works of the Renaissance masters. Your CEO has more ideas if you need them. Just ask!

Optional Experiences

• Uffizi Gallery Visit: Head to the Uffizi Gallery to see spectacular Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci paintings in person.
• Il Duomo di Firenze Visit: This green, pink, and white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed. Wander through the cathedral or choose to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and be rewarded with extraordinary views of the city!
• David (Galleria dell'Accademia) Visit: Visit Michelangelo's most famous statue, 'David'. Marvel at the artistry on display in the intricately carved piece of marble. Please note that pre-booking your admission online will be 26.50EUR and booking on site will be 22.50EUR. (22.50-26.50 EUR per person)
• Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art: Visiti the Pitti Palace and learn about history alongside modern art.
• Ponte Vecchio Visit: Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.
• National Museum of Bargello: Explore this museum, housed in one of the earliest buildings in Florence (dating to 1255). Stroll through the corridors to learn about the history of this site and its many uses, and see the fantastic works from master artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo.
• Medici Chapels Visit: Admire the opulence of the two Medici Chapels. The Sagrestia Nuova was designed by Michelangelo and built as a mausoleum for the powerful Medici family. (9-32 EUR per person)

With a free day, the choices are endless. Opt to visit the Duomo, David at the Galleria dell’Accademia, Uffizi Gallery, medieval Ponte Vecchio, or the Medici Chapels, just to name a handful.

Included Experiences

• Free Time: Take advantage of a full free day in Florence to get the most of of the city's world-class museums, plazas and cafes.

Optional Experiences

• National Museum of Bargello: Explore this museum, housed in one of the earliest buildings in Florence (dating to 1255). Stroll through the corridors to learn about the history of this site and its many uses, and see the fantastic works from master artists such as Donatello and Michelangelo.
• Il Duomo di Firenze Visit: This green, pink, and white marbled 13th century basilica is one of Italy’s largest churches and its brick dome is the largest ever constructed. Wander through the cathedral or choose to climb the 463 steps to the top of the dome and be rewarded with extraordinary views of the city!
• David (Galleria dell'Accademia) Visit: Visit Michelangelo's most famous statue, 'David'. Marvel at the artistry on display in the intricately carved piece of marble. Please note that pre-booking your admission online will be 26.50EUR and booking on site will be 22.50EUR. (22.50-26.50 EUR per person)
• Uffizi Gallery Visit: Head to the Uffizi Gallery to see spectacular Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci paintings in person.
• Medici Chapels Visit: Admire the opulence of the two Medici Chapels. The Sagrestia Nuova was designed by Michelangelo and built as a mausoleum for the powerful Medici family. (9-32 EUR per person)
• Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art: Visiti the Pitti Palace and learn about history alongside modern art.
• Ponte Vecchio Visit: Walk across this medieval bridge and look over the Arno River to feel the romance of this city. Jewelers, art dealers and souvenir shops run the length of the bridge, featured in many master paintings.

Head out of Florence on a private bus and visit Pisa en route to the coast, with a bit of free time to explore. Settle into the colourful, charming town in the Cinque Terre region. Travel to Pisa and stop for a visit at the Field of Miracles to see the famous leaning tower (entrance fee not included). Later, head on to the coastal paradise of Cinque Terre.

Included Experiences

• Pisa Visit: Visit Pisa and check out its famous leaning tower. Wander the area and take photos to your heart's content. Opt to enter the Pisa Cathedral, or enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant.

Lace up your hiking shoes today and walk one of the most scenic trails in the area, from Corniglia to Manarola. Visit charming, colourful towns along the way and take in the stunning vistas. Afterward, immerse yourself deeper in the Cinque Terre region with a short stop in the cliffside village of Riomaggiore. The national park pass and daily unlimited train ticket is included. Opt to follow your CEO along centuries-old footpaths and mule tracks leading through olive groves, vineyards, and orchards on a full day hike, or hop on and off the train, experiencing each town on your own. Choose to rest in each of the 5 villages, sampling delicacies in each place, such as local pesto, espresso, or delicious gelato.

Included Experiences

• Local Train: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
• Cinque Terre Hike: Set out on one of the most scenic and rewarding trails in the Cinque Terre region. This moderately challenging hike through Cinque Terre National Park offers stunning views of vineyards and charming hillside villages.
• National Park Pass and Unlimited Train Ticket: Use the included Cinque Terre National Park pass and unlimited train ticket to explore this stunning stretch of coastline by train. Travel easily between the five villages, taking in breathtaking views, colorful cliffside towns, and the sparkling Ligurian Sea along the way.
• Riomaggiore Visit: Set out to explore Riomaggiore, a quaint village nestled on the coastline of this beautiful region. Take in views of colourful houses, steep cliffs, and terraced vineyards.

Travel to Lake Como, a perfectly picturesque region laden with villas and lush gardens. Arrive in the late afternoon then hop on the the historic Como-Brunate funicular. Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Lake Como and the Alps. This quick 7-minute ride ascends to the charming village of Brunate, known as the "Balcony of the Alps." Set out from Cinque Terre on a train journey with a few changes en route, passing through Milan and on to elegant Como Town, located on the shores of Lake Como. On the border with Switzerland, enjoy the spectacular backdrop of the snowy-peaked Alps.

Included Experiences

• Local Train: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
• Funicular Ride: Enjoy a funicular ride from Como town to the hilltop village of Brunate. In operation since 1894, the historic lift is the best way to get a bird's eye view of the stunning region.

Spend the day on Lake Como, enjoying the scenery via ferry. Return to town in the late afternoon and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Set out by ferry to explore the lake and the elegant towns of Menaggio and Bellagio. Explore shops, restaurants, and fine residences before spending the evening as you see fit. Soak up the elegant atmosphere in one of the lakeside cafés or restaurants. Take some time for shopping — some of the finest Italian designers are to be found in Como's chic boutiques.

Included Experiences

• Lake Como Ferry Excursion: Experience the beauty of Lake Como with a scenic ferry ride, stopping at the charming towns of Menaggio and Bellagio. Hop off at Menaggio to explore its beautiful hiking trails or wander the picturesque streets of Bellagio, discovering its quaint boutiques and artisan shops. Don't miss the walk to Punta Spartivento for breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Free Time: Set out and explore this elegant lakeside town.

Optional Experiences

• Como Cathedral: Head to the piazza in the historic part of the city to pay visit to one of the most stunning sites in Como. With its ornate and unique architecture, you won't be able to miss it.

Travel to Venice, the "city of canals," and enjoy a guided walking tour over bridges and canals, and view the Piazza San Marco. Venice is truly unique and magificent to behold and explore. There will be plenty of time to wander the narrow cobblestone streets and wide piazzas, crossing hundreds of tiny bridges over the canals and, of course, getting lost in Venice's labyrinth.

Included Experiences

• Local Train: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
• Free Time: Head out through the winding alleyways for your first taste of magical Venice.
• Guided Walking Tour of Venice: Discover iconic Venetian landmarks on a guided walking tour. Revel in the labyrinth like alleyways, charming bridges, and bustling squares, while gondolas glide through serene canals. Enjoy the unique ambiance of this historic city where every corner tells a story.

Spend the day getting lost in Venice. Opt for a vaporetto (water taxi) ride to the islands of Murano and Burano, take a gondola under the Ponte Rialto (Bridge of Lovers), explore the Doge's Palace and Bridge of Sighs, savour traditional Venetian cuisine on a food tour, or get lost in the twisting maze of the city.

Included Experiences

• Free Time: With so much to see and do, don't waste a minute.With so much to see and do, don't waste a minute -- get out and explore the "city of canals".

Optional Experiences

• Venice Food Tour: Immerse yourself in Venice’s rich culinary heritage with a guided food tour through Cannaregio and the historic Jewish Ghetto. Savor a progressive meal that embodies authentic Venetian flavors — from the city’s signature spritz to locally produced wines paired with creamy risotto. Enjoy traditional cicchetti such as baccalà mantecato, sarde in saor, and polenta, among other local delights, then raise a glass of crisp prosecco to your journey. As you wander through Venice’s hidden alleyways and canals, uncover the stories, culture, and centuries-old influences that have shaped its unique cuisine. End your culinary adventure with a sweet finale, a classic tiramisù or artisanal gelato.
• Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Visit : Visit this former palace, rebuilt and restored numerous times, and admire the Gothic Venetian architecture. Once the seat of the government, the Palazzo Ducale is now a grand museum. Enjoy the stellar artwork, ornate chambers, and courtyards.
• Gondola Ride: Sit back and enjoy a different point of view as you glide through the historic canals of Venice on a gondola.
• Saint Mark's Square and Basilica Visit: Enter the picture-perfect Piazza San Marco from one of the many winding alleyways and stare in awe at the grandeur. With the massive, ornate basilica standing tall at one end, pigeons gathering and flying around, and violinists playing a Vivaldi tune at a café table — this is Venice. Wander the square and people watch or duck inside the glittering basilica for more Venetian inspiration.
• Murano and Burano Islands Visit: Take a quick trip across the lagoon and experience Venice’s artisanal roots. Explore the island of Murano, famous for its skilled glassblowers, and walk along the colourful streets of Burano, known for a centuries-old tradition of lacemaking.
• Campanile San Marco Lookout: Climb to the top of the Campanile - Venice's tallest building - to take in a great bird's eye view of the cityscape and lagoon.
• Scuola Grande di San Rocco: Noted for its collection of more than 60 paintings by Italian master Tintoretto, Scuola Grande di San Rocco is the last remaining "scuole" or confraternity dedicated to charitable works. The Upper Hall, which contains Tintoretto's ceiling masterpiece, allows visitors a peek into opulent Venetian court life.
• Guggenheim Museum Visit: While walking down the Grand Canal, stop into this museum to see its extensive modern art collection.

Depart at any time. We recommend staying an extra day or two to fully experience all this beautiful city has to offer.

Optional Experiences

• Gallerie dell'Accademia: Featuring works from famed artists including Bellini, Tintoretto, and Veronese, there is no better place to delve into the history of Venetian art.
• Gondola Ride: Sit back and enjoy a different point of view as you glide through the historic canals of Venice on a gondola.
• Scuola Grande di San Rocco: Noted for its collection of more than 60 paintings by Italian master Tintoretto, Scuola Grande di San Rocco is the last remaining "scuole" or confraternity dedicated to charitable works. The Upper Hall, which contains Tintoretto's ceiling masterpiece, allows visitors a peek into opulent Venetian court life.
• Campanile San Marco Lookout: Climb to the top of the Campanile - Venice's tallest building - to take in a great bird's eye view of the cityscape and lagoon.
• Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Visit : Visit this former palace, rebuilt and restored numerous times, and admire the Gothic Venetian architecture. Once the seat of the government, the Palazzo Ducale is now a grand museum. Enjoy the stellar artwork, ornate chambers, and courtyards.
• Guggenheim Museum Visit: While walking down the Grand Canal, stop into this museum to see its extensive modern art collection.