The Three Cities of Art: Rome, Florence & Venice

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The Three Cities of Art

cities: rome - florence - venice
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Three Unique Cities: Rome, Florence, and Venice

If you're visiting Italy for the first time, there's no better way to start than by exploring the unforgettable trio of Rome, Florence, and Venice. Each city provides a distinct experience, offering a deep dive into Italy's vibrant culture and transporting you to three unique worlds.

Venice, rising like Atlantis from the sea, feels almost otherworldly—its winding canals, arched bridges, and Byzantine-inspired architecture reveal a city shaped by centuries of maritime trade and Eastern influence.

In contrast, Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance, exuding intimacy and artistic brilliance. With its human-scale piazzas, domed cathedrals, and romantic streetscapes, it’s a city where every corner feels like a masterpiece.

Then there’s Rome, a city of grandeur and bold expression, where monumental ruins, baroque piazzas, and imperial history create an awe-inspiring sense of timelessness.

Together, these three cities capture the heart, soul, and imagination of Italy. With The Your Own Italy Advantage, your journey will be personalized, seamless, and extraordinary—crafted with care to deliver a truly immersive Italian experience.

Day by day

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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
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Meeting Point
Your 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
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Tickets
Included
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Tour Duration
3.5 hours
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Transfer
Your Driver will meet you outside your hotel
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Meeting Point
Your guide will meet you at the Colosseum
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!

Michelangelo's Pieta in St. Peter's Basilica
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Tickets
Included
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Tour Duration
4 hours
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Transfer
Driver will meet you outside your Accommodations

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!

bottles of Brunello di Montalcino produced by the Biondi Santi vinyard
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florence

Summary florence
Day 4
Day 5
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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 an expert guide, you’ll uncover the genius of Michelangelo, Brunelleschi, and Ghiberti as you journey through the city that shaped Western art and culture.

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. Admire the Baptistery’s legendary “Gates of Paradise”, then stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, lined with goldsmith shops and artisan boutiques.

Your adventure culminates 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.

street view of a market in Florence
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Day 5

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

A Tuscan Escape: Chianti Wine, Rolling Hills & Medieval Charm

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.

Travel through the picturesque Chianti countryside, where vine-covered hills, olive groves, and cypress-lined roads create a timeless landscape. Stop at the renowned Machiavelli Winery, where you’ll tour historic cellars, savor exceptional wines, and enjoy a Tuscan lunch in a charming villa once owned by Niccolò Machiavelli himself.

Continue to San Gimignano, the UNESCO-listed “City of Beautiful Towers,” where soaring medieval towers rise above the Tuscan hills. 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, take in one last glimpse of Tuscany’s golden-hued landscapes on 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
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Day 6

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, 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!

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. 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, step inside the Uffizi Gallery, a treasure trove of Renaissance genius. Marvel at masterpieces by Botticelli, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Caravaggio. 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.

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venice

Summary venice
Day 7
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Day 10
Day 7

Venice: A Timeless Journey Through Canals, History & Elegance

Step into the enchanting world of Venice, where history, art, and beauty blend in a maze of canals and streets. With your private guide, explore iconic landmarks and end your adventure aboard a private gondola, gliding through scenic waterways.

Start at the magnificent Piazza San Marco, the heart of Venice for centuries. Marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica, with its dazzling Byzantine mosaics, and uncover the legendary relics transported from Alexandria. Admire the Gothic grandeur of the Doge’s Palace, once the seat of Venice’s powerful rulers.

Venture beyond the crowds into hidden piazzas and narrow alleyways, where the true magic of Venice awaits. Stop at La Fenice, the city’s renowned 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 once did. Let the gentle lapping of the water and the soft creak of the gondola immerse you in Venice's timeless romance.

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

Santa Maria Formosa in Venice, Italy
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Day 8

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.

View of the Bridge of Sighs in Venice, Italy
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Day 9

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 looking up a canal with anchored boats and colorful buildings in Burano, Italy
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Day 10

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.

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

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

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
florence
3 nights
venice
3 nights
Package Pricing
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Pricing (per person)
Rates depend on group size**
2-3 travelers: $8,200 per person
4-5 travelers: $6,900 per person
6 or more travelers: $6,350 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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