Italy’s Heart and Soul: A Private Journey Through Rome and Florence

Tour Image

Italy's Heart and Soul

cities: rome - florence
Map

A Timeless Tale of Two Cities: Rome & Florence

Experience Italy’s “Heart” and “Soul” in a journey through two of its most extraordinary cities, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s history, culture, and artistry.

You tour will begin in Rome, the once-mighty capital of the Western world, where ancient ruins, grand piazzas, and magnificent churches tell the story of centuries of power and influence. As both the secular heart of Italy and the seat of the Catholic Church, Rome offers an essential window into Western civilization. You'll explore iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Pantheon, before marveling at the splendor of St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s legendary frescoes.

Next, you'll journey to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, where art, culture and innovation flourished. Walk in the footsteps of masters like Michelangelo and da Vinci as you explore the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery and Accademia. Stand in awe before Brunelleschi’s Dome, an architectural marvel that crowns the Florence Cathedral. Here, the Medici family's legacy shaped a city that would forever influence the course of art and history.

Beyond the cities, you'll escape to the rolling vineyards of Tuscany for a private Chianti tour. Savor a wine tasting experience paired with a traditional Tuscan lunch, surrounded by picturesque countryside. Throughout your journey, you'll travel in style with private car service and expert English-speaking guides, with fully customizable options tailored to your preferences.

This is more than a trip—it’s an immersive journey through history, art, and indulgence. Because this is Your Own Italy.

Day by day

Icon
YOIAdvantage
Icon
Arrival Rome Airport

rome

Summary rome
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 1

Welcome to Rome! Introductory Dolce Vita Tour

Step into the enchantment of Rome and see the city through the eyes of a true Roman. This immersive Dolce Vita Tour takes you beyond the usual sightseeing, leading you through timeless streets, iconic fountains, and awe-inspiring monuments. With your expert guide, uncover Bernini’s artistic genius, marvel at the Pantheon’s architectural brilliance, and embrace the traditions that define Roman life.

Stroll through charming piazzas, soak in the vibrant rhythm of daily life, and master the art of la passeggiata, Rome’s beloved evening stroll. Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return, and uncover the hidden meanings behind Bernini’s sculptures and Rome’s legendary fountains.

This isn’t just a tour—it’s an invitation to live la dolce vita, navigate the city like a local, and experience Rome in the most authentic and unforgettable way.

Trevi Fountain at night in Rome, Italy
Image
Image
Tour Duration
3 hours
Image
Transfer
Arrival Rome Airport
Image
Meeting Point
Guide will meet you outside your Accommodations
Day 2

Walk in the Footsteps of the Ancient Romans

Step into the heartbeat of history and relive the glory and drama of Ancient Rome! With your expert guide, you'll be transported back to the days of emperors, gladiators, and legendary battles as you explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Capitoline Hill.

You'll feel the electrifying energy of the Colosseum, the world’s most famous arena, where gladiators once fought and Roman engineering staged epic spectacles. Tour guide will lead you through the Roman Forum, the political and cultural heart of the empire, where Julius Caesar once stood. You'll end your journey atop Capitoline Hill, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Eternal City.

This is more than a tour—it’s a journey through time, connecting you to the greatness of Ancient Rome. Don’t just visit—live its history!

view of Rome from the Roman Forum at sunset
Image
Image
Tour Duration
3 hours
Image
Transfer
Private
Day 3

Explore The Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica

Your tour will begin as you step into the heart of artistic genius, rich history, and divine beauty with an expertly guided exploration of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. It's an exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the masterpieces of the Renaissance, where each work invites you to discover its hidden stories and the timeless beauty.

You'll be guided through the Vatican Museums, home to treasures like Laocoön and His Sons, the breathtaking Raphael Rooms, and the spectacular Gallery of Maps. Then, step into the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes—from the Creation of Adam to The Last Judgment—will leave you in awe.

Your journey will culminate in St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s grandest church. You'll marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà, stand beneath Bernini’s awe-inspiring altar canopy, and explore the tombs of Popes, including John Paul II.

This is more than just a visit—it’s a journey through time and human creativity, an experience that will stay with you forever. Don’t just visit the Vatican—experience it!

Image
Image
Tour Duration
3 hours
Image
Transfer
Private
Icon
Private

florence

Summary florence
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 4

Arrival in Florence, Introductory Tour and the Accademia Gallery

Step into the heart of the Renaissance as you explore the timeless beauty, rich history, and artistic masterpieces of Florence. With its grand piazzas, architectural marvels, and world-renowned art, every street, stone, and sculpture tells a story. Led by your expert guide, you’ll uncover the genius of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, and Ghiberti as you journey through the city that shaped Western art and culture.

You’ll begin at Piazza della Repubblica, the historic crossroads of ancient Roman Florence, before marveling at the Piazza del Duomo, home to the Florence Cathedral and Brunelleschi’s revolutionary dome. You’ll admire the Baptistery’s legendary “Gates of Paradise,” then stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, lined with goldsmith shops and artisan boutiques.

Your adventure will culminate at the Accademia Gallery, where you’ll stand face to face with Michelangelo’s David—a masterpiece that captures the power and beauty of the Renaissance like no other.

From ancient origins to artistic triumphs, this tour offers a fascinating journey through history, culture, and creativity, leaving you with a deep appreciation for Florence’s enduring legacy.

The cityscape of Florence, Italy with mountains in the background
Image
Image
Tour Duration
3 hours
Image
Transfer
Private
Day 5

Tour of the Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery

Florence’s Masterpieces: The Medici, Michelangelo & The Uffizi Gallery

Step into the artistic and political heart of Florence on an unforgettable journey through power, creativity, and history. With your expert guide, you’ll explore Piazza della Signoria, an open-air museum of Renaissance sculpture, before stepping inside the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery, home to some of the greatest masterpieces ever created. This is more than a tour—it’s an immersion into the artistic soul of Florence!

You’ll stand in Piazza della Signoria, where art meets politics, and admire Michelangelo’s David (a striking replica), Cellini’s Perseus with the Head of Medusa, and Giambologna’s Rape of the Sabine Women. You’ll uncover the rise of the Medici family, who transformed Florence into a Renaissance powerhouse, leaving behind a legacy of culture and artistry that still inspires today.

Then, you’ll step inside the Uffizi Gallery, a treasure trove of Renaissance genius. You’ll marvel at masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio. You’ll stand before Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, admire Da Vinci’s Annunciation, and experience Caravaggio’s dramatic realism—each painting a window into a world of visionaries and revolutionaries.

From the grandeur of Piazza della Signoria to the timeless brilliance of the Uffizi, this tour is a celebration of art, power, and innovation. Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or curious traveler, Florence’s legacy will stay with you forever.

the courtyard of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy
Image
Image
Tour Duration
4 hours
Image
Transfer
Private
Day 6

Lunch and Wine Tasting at Villa Machiavelli and Visit to San Gimignano

Tuscany Day Trip: Chianti & San Gimignano

Escape the bustle of Florence and embark on a breathtaking journey through the rolling vineyards, historic villages, and world-renowned wineries of Tuscany. This unforgettable experience blends the legendary wine culture of Chianti with the medieval allure of San Gimignano, offering the perfect mix of indulgence, history, and stunning scenery.

You’ll travel through the picturesque Chianti countryside, where vine-covered hills, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads create a timeless landscape. Your private driver will take you to the renowned Machiavelli Winery, where you can tour the historic cellars, savor exceptional wines, and enjoy a Tuscan lunch in a charming villa once owned by Niccolò Machiavelli himself.

Next, you’ll continue to San Gimignano, the UNESCO-listed “City of Beautiful Towers,” where soaring medieval towers rise above the Tuscan hills. You’ll wander through Piazza della Cisterna, admire stunning frescoes in the Romanesque cathedral, and explore the quaint artisan shops offering hand-painted ceramics, saffron, and local delicacies.

As the day winds down, you’ll take in one last glimpse of Tuscany’s golden-hued landscapes during your relaxing drive back to Florence. This is more than a tour—it’s a celebration of Tuscany’s beauty, flavors, and timeless charm.

Open field with a small stand of evergreen trees in Tuscany, Italy
Image
Image
Tour Duration
6 hours
Image
Transfer
Private
Day 7

Departure – Arrivederci!

As you bid farewell to Italy, you carry with you not just memories of breathtaking landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and timeless history, but also the warmth of newfound friendships. Your driver will ensure a smooth journey to the airport, giving you plenty of time to make your flight. Though your adventure may be coming to an end, Italy salutes you with a heartfelt “Arrivederci!”—until we meet again.

Now that you’ve traveled with Your Own Italy, you’ll always have friends eager to welcome you back whenever you long for the beauty, flavors, and magic of this incredible land once more.

The cityscape of Florence, Italy with mountains in the background
Image

What’s Included

Charming Accommodations

Rome – 4 nights in a boutique hotel or historic apartment.
Florence – 3 nights in a boutique hotel or historic apartment.

Expert Guides and Skip-the-Line Access

Enjoy the expertise of English-speaking local guides who bring Italy’s history, art, and culture to life. With skip-the-line tickets, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time exploring.

Immersive Private Tours and Exclusive Excursions

Rome:

    • Private Introductory Walking Tour to orient you with the Eternal City.
    • Private Tour of the Roman Forum and Colosseum
    • Private Tour of The Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Florence:

    • Introductory Tour and the Accademia Gallery
    • Lunch and Wine Tasting at Villa Machiavelli and Visit to San Gimignano
    • Tour of the Piazza della Signoria and the Uffizi Gallery

Useful Personal Information

rome
3 nights
florence
3 nights
Package Prices
Icon Currency Dollar
Pricing (per prerson)
Rates depend on group size**
2-3 travelers: $5,450 per person
4-5 travelers: $4,800 per person
6 or more travelers: $4,150 per person
**prices subject to hotel availability
Vacation Airfare
Icon of Plane Landing
To book your international flights at preferred rates, contact an UP AND AWAY TRAVEL International Specialist:
Icon
+1 (800) 275 8001
Icon
kyle@upandaway.com
Vacation Insurance
Icon Currency Dollar
We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against potential fund forfeiture due to cancellation or unexpected incidents such as injury or loss. We offer travel insurance through our partner, Allianz.
Awards
Tripadvisor Award
IconIcon
Icon
Schedule 30 minutes call with Carmen
Select a Day
Background image
Best trip ever!
We would like to sincerely thank Carmen and her team for the wonderful two week itinerary planned for us in Italy as well as your dedication and constant communication in keeping us always informed with our tour guides and drivers.
Being that this was our first time traveling to Italy, Your Own Italy made our hotel (beautiful hotels) , transportation, and tour reservations for us which made our trip stress free where we could relax and enjoy our time. All the private drivers and AP Tour Guides were wonderful, gracious, very knowledgeable and informative. We really enjoyed them and learned a lot from them.
Loading...