The Eternal City and the City of Romance

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The Eternal City and The City of Romance

cities: rome - venice
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Two of The World's Most Memorable Cities

This vacation is your chance to connect with two of the world’s most memorable cities. Begin your journey in Venice, a city unlike any other, where you’ll explore its winding canals, historic architecture, and romantic charm. From private gondola rides to stunning views of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, you’ll experience the magic of Venice both by land and by water.

Then, continue to Rome, the Eternal City, where history comes alive at every turn. Discover the grandeur of ancient Rome at the Forum and Coliseum, the artistic masterpieces of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, and the timeless allure that makes this city truly unforgettable. With Your Own Italy’s exclusive extras, this will be a journey filled with remarkable moments, seamless planning, and personalized experiences you'll cherish for a lifetime.

Day by day

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rome

Summary rome
Day 1
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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.


Logistics: Your guide will meet you outside your accommodations.

statue of Julius Caesar in Rome
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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!

landscape view of the Roman Forum in Rome
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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!

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Savor the Flavors of Trastevere: A Food & Wine Lover’s Roman Dream

Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure through the flavors, history, and charm of Trastevere, Rome’s most vibrant foodie haven. This unforgettable food and wine walking tour lets you experience the city like a true Roman, indulging in iconic dishes, hidden gems, and world-class wines while soaking in the electric atmosphere of this enchanting neighborhood.

Tucked away just across the Tiber River, Trastevere is where old-world tradition meets modern energy. As you stroll through lively piazzas and charming alleyways, your expert guide will lead you to the city’s best-kept culinary secrets. Savor crispy Roman pizza, handcrafted pasta, and the city’s legendary street food, from artisanal meats and cheeses to the irresistible crunch of supplì (Rome’s famous fried rice balls). Every bite tells a story, every sip of exquisite wine enhances the experience.

This epic food journey is more than a feast—it’s a deep dive into Trastevere’s heart and soul. Wander through centuries-old streets, discover breathtaking piazzas and historic churches, and feel the pulse of the neighborhood, where buzzing trattorias and hidden corners bring Rome’s culinary culture to life.

By the time your tour ends, you won’t just have a satisfied stomach—you’ll leave with a newfound love for Roman cuisine, a deeper connection to Italian food culture, and the skills to eat like a true local. Buon appetito!

a line of wine glasses partially filled with different varietals for a wine tasting
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venice

Summary venice
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Day 4

Venice: A Timeless Journey Through Canals, History & Elegance

Step into the enchanting world of Venice, where history, art, and timeless beauty converge in a maze of canals and charming streets. With your expert guide leading the way, explore iconic landmarks, uncover the city's fascinating past, and end your adventure in the most quintessentially Venetian way—aboard a private gondola gliding through its scenic waterways.

Begin in the magnificent Piazza San Marco, the heart of Venice for centuries. Marvel at the ornate façade of St. Mark’s Basilica, adorned with dazzling Byzantine mosaics, and uncover the mystery of the basilica’s legendary relics, secretly transported from Alexandria. Admire the Gothic grandeur of the Doge’s Palace, once the seat of Venice’s powerful rulers.

Wander beyond the crowds into hidden piazzas and narrow alleyways, where the true magic of Venice unfolds. Stop at La Fenice, the city’s legendary opera house, cross the iconic Rialto Bridge for breathtaking views of the Grand Canal, and explore the lively Rialto Market, where Venetians have traded for centuries.

No visit to Venice is complete without a private gondola ride through its picturesque canals. Glide past graceful palaces, charming bridges, and historic passageways, experiencing the city as nobles and merchants once did. Let the gentle lapping of the water and the soft creak of the gondola immerse you in the timeless romance of Venice.

From the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square to the hidden corners of the city and the magic of a private gondola ride, this Venetian experience offers the perfect blend of history, beauty, and authentic charm. Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or romantic at heart, Venice will captivate you with its elegance, mystery, and timeless allure.

Detail of the spires on St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy
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Day 5

Venice’s Icons: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace & the Bridge of Sighs

Your private guide will lead you through the heart of Venice, starting at the renowned St. Mark’s Square, where history and grandeur meet. Outside the basilica, admire its shimmering Byzantine mosaics that depict scenes from the life of Christ and the arrival of St. Mark’s relics. Inside, marvel at over 4,000 square meters of golden mosaics, stunning marble floor inlays, and the breathtaking Pala d’Oro, a dazzling high altar made of gold and precious stones. Your guide will highlight the religious and artistic significance of this one-of-a-kind sanctuary.

Next, head to the Doge’s Palace, the former political heart of the Venetian Republic. Explore its richly decorated chambers, grand staircases, and notorious prison cells—once home to figures like Giacomo Casanova, who famously escaped. Walk across the haunting Bridge of Sighs, where you can glimpse the lagoon through narrow windows, just as prisoners once did on their way to captivity. This tour, guided by your expert, offers an unforgettable look into the power, art, and intrigue that shaped Venetian history.

Detail of the gallery arches at Doge's Palace in Venice, Italy
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Day 6

Murano & Burano: A Private Journey Through Venice’s Artisan Islands

Embark on a private boat tour across the enchanting Venetian Lagoon, with your expert guide leading the way to two of Venice’s most iconic islands.

Your first stop is Murano, world-renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, dating back to 1291. As you stroll the island, your guide will take you through a museum dedicated to the art of glass, point out stunning palaces and Veneto-Byzantine churches adorned with 12th-century mosaics, and give you a firsthand look at master glassblowers shaping molten glass into intricate works of art. On clear days, you may also catch a glimpse of San Michele, Venice’s serene island cemetery, rising from the water nearby.

Next, you’ll visit the storybook island of Burano, known for its vibrant, pastel-colored houses and centuries-old lace-making heritage. Once considered the finest lace in Europe, Burano’s craftsmanship remains a proud tradition passed down through generations. Explore charming lace boutiques, browse the Lace Museum, and unwind with an aperitif at a café along the canal, surrounded by the island’s cheerful, colorful façades.

With Your Own Italy, this island escape offers not just sightseeing, but a true immersion into Venetian craftsmanship, history, and charm.

View of canal with anchored boats and colorful buildings in Burano, Italy
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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.

View of from across the water of San Giorgio Maggiore Island in Venice, Italy
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What’s Included

Charming Accommodations

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

Venice – 3 nights in a charming canal-side retreat.

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.
    • Savor the Flavors of Trastevere: A Food & Wine Lover’s Roman Dream

Venice:

    • Private Introductory Walking Tour, including a romantic private gondola ride.
    • Venice’s Icons: St. Mark’s Basilica, Doge’s Palace & the Bridge of Sighs
    • Private Boat Tour with a guide to:
      • Murano: Witness a live glass-making demonstration.
      • Burano: Explore the vibrant island and its traditional lace-making heritage.
rome
3 nights
venice
3 nights
Package Prices
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Pricing (per prerson)
Rates depend on group size**
2-3 travelers: $6,250 per person
4-5 travelers: $5,450 per person
6 or more travelers: $4,800 per person
**prices subject to hotel availability
Vacation Airfare
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To book your international flights at preferred rates, contact an UP AND AWAY TRAVEL International Specialist:
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+1 (800) 275 8001
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kyle@upandaway.com
Vacation Insurance
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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
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Schedule 30 minutes call with Carmen
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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.
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