6-Night Secrets of Rome and Venice

Day 2

Accommodation

4-Star Baroque Historic Gem Hotel - Rome, Lazio Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Vatican Tour with Secret Room

Skip the long lines, and explore one of the most beautiful museums in the world with an expert guide. Your VIP tour allows entrance into the Vatican Museums one hour before it is open to the public. Enjoy the early quiet of the Pinecone Courtyard and the Museo Clementino. Admire the artistry of the statue of the Lacoon Priest of Troy. Your guide will escort you to a roped-off room, the Cabinet of the Masks, opened exclusively for our guests. The 18th century hall has stunning mosaic floors, brought from Hadrian’s Villa at Tivoli. Listen to tales of the statues of the Three Graces, Aphrodite, and the Nymphs. Having enjoyed the solace of the Vatican’s Secret Room, make your way through the Vatican Museums with breathtaking highlights such as the Belvedere Torso, inspiration for Christ’s likeness in Michelangelo’s Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel. Discover the Gallery of Tapestries, the Gallery of Maps, and the Raphael Rooms, created exclusively by this master artist.

Your tour continues to Michelangelo’s gem, the Sistine Chapel. The Chapel observes silence—your guide will tell you about this sacred space before you enter. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica, with art such as the Pietà by Michelangelo, a sculpture of Mary holding Jesus. Other renowned works include the Baldacchino by Bernini, and Michelangelo’s majestic dome, which marks Rome’s skyline. After the tour, climb to the top for stunning views. 

Prati by Sunset – The Roman Food Tour

This food tour in Rome’s Prati neighborhood, provides a complete insight into Italian cuisine. Taste the very best
of Rome, visiting five unforgettable venues. Begin your evening in typical Italian fashion with an aperitivo at La
Nicchia Café. Tasting highlights include truffles, 30-year aged balsamic vinegar drizzled over Parmigano
Reggiano, Genovese pesto, the freshest buffalo mozzarella and more treats. Enjoy free flowing fine wine.

Following aperitivo, prepare your taste buds for the famous Pizzarium, Rome’s number one pizzeria. The owner
Gabriele Bonci, is described as the ‘Michelangelo of pizza,’ recommended by Anthony Bordain and countless
food bloggers. Choose your toppings from over 50 daily imaginative variations, with the highest quality inseason ingredients. Popular choices include mortadella and crumbled pistachio, fig with prosciutto as well as
roasted potatoes and mozzarella. Burrata and anchovies is Gabriele’s favorite.

La Tradizione is the number one gourmet food shop in Rome, offering over 400 types of cheeses and 150 types of cured meats. Here you will taste the real ‘retro gusto’ and discover the importance of ‘what grows together, goes together’. Indulge in the best cheeses and cured meats Italy has to offer, with fine wine. Savor homemade pasta and tiramisu at the locally loved, family owned restaurant Al Giardino del Gatto e la Volpe. The wine offered is a D.O.C.G Vermentino. Throughout the tour receive essential food tips of the city, to ensure your enjoyment of Rome’s best foods, will not end with our tour. Your tour will last approximately 4 hours.

Must-See Sites

Rome, Lazio Region

On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.

As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.

Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.

Sistine Chapel, Rome, Lazio Region

Named after Pope Sixtus IV, the Sistine Chapel is perhaps the most famous chapel in the world. It is renowned in both form - with its incredible artwork, and function - as the Papal Conclave. The ceiling and western wall of the Sistine Chapel are adorned with some of the most astonishing paintings in the world created by the famous artist – Michelangelo Buonarroti. Despite being one of the most cherished works of art in history, Michelangelo was originally hesitant to paint the ceiling of the chapel for he saw himself as more of a sculptor than a painter. 

The middle section of the ceiling depicts 9 stories from the Book of Genesis, including the iconic ‘Creation of Adam’ where the hand ofGod is seen reaching to Adam to give him life. In 1535 Michelangelo was commissioned once again to paint the western wall over the altar. Michelangelo completed this spectacular painting of the ‘Last Judgment’ in 1541. The painting depicts the end-of-days and second coming of Christ when according to Christian faith all souls will be judged by Jesus, the Saints, and God and sent to heaven or hell.

Overnight Location

Rome, Lazio Region

On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.

As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.

Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.

Day 3

Accommodation

4-Star Baroque Historic Gem Hotel - Rome, Lazio Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Underground Colosseum Tour with Arena, Palatine Hill & Forum

Get VIP access to the Colosseum underground & arena floor, both areas usually restricted to visitors on this semi-private tour. Enjoy a 360-degree overview of the Amphitheater Flavius (the actual name of the Colosseum) with privileged access to the areas where gladiators and beasts awaited their fate. You’ll be able to walk where the infamous games were held. Once inside the Colosseum, gates will open exclusively for you, your guide, and a few other lucky souls.  You’ll visit areas of the Colosseum otherwise closed to the public. Walk through the archway and onto the arena, where you will get a feel for what it was like to hear the roar of 70,000 spectators chanting your name. Descend into the Colosseum dungeons, and learn about the complex labyrinth under the arena floor filled with cages, mechanical elevators, rooms, and prisons. The gladiator tales will come to life!
After your tour inside the Colosseum, climb Palatine Hill for spectacular views of Rome. This hilltop neighborhood was once home to the elite political figures who were the backbone of the Roman Empire. Learn about everyday ancient Roman life as you descend into the grand Roman Forum, the public center for Roman political life. Visit inspiring structures such as Julius Caesar’s Temple, the Temple of Antonio & Faustina, and the Basilica of Maxentius.

Must-See Sites

Palatine Hill, Rome, Lazio Region

Located above the Roman Forum, the Palatine Hill is the most central of the seven hills of Rome and forms one of the oldest parts of the city. Considered to be the birthplace of the Italian capital and is believed to have been inhabited since the year 1000 B.C. During the Republican Period Roman citizens belonging to the upper class settled in the Palatine Hill and built sumptuous palaces, of which important traces are still preserved, you can see hundreds of ruins of the imposing buildings that were created. From Palatine Hill you can get the best views of the Roman Forum from above.

Overnight Location

Rome, Lazio Region

On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.

As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.

Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.

Day 4

Accommodation

4-Star Luxury Palace Stay - Venice, Veneto Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Must-See Sites

Piazza San Marco, Venice, Veneto Region

Piazza San Marco, often known in English as St Mark's Square, is the principal public square of Venice, Italy, where it is generally known just as la Piazza. It was established during the ninth century, but adopted its current size and form in 1177, and was paved one hundred years later. The Piazza San Marco is one of the most beautiful in the world. Napoleon called it “the world’s most beautiful drawing room”. 

Bridge of Sighs, Venice, Veneto Region

The Bridge of Sighs (Ponte dei Sospiri) is an enclosed bridge made of white limestone with windows with stone bars. The bridge passes over the Rio di Palazzo, and connects the New Prison to the interrogation rooms in the Doge's Palace. Despite being considered one of the most romantic sites in Venice, the bridge was built in 1602 so that convicts could go straight from being sentenced in the palace courtrooms to their prison cell (or execution) across the bridge. Rather than connecting two roads on either side of the water, the bridge travels from one building to the other. 

Overnight Location

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.

Day 5

Accommodation

4-Star Luxury Palace Stay - Venice, Veneto Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Welcome to Venice: Gondola Ride, Walking Tour & St Mark's

Combining must-see sites and hidden corners, this Venice Walking Tour takes you to the heart of the city in just
three hours; giving you a broad overview of the history, culture and character of the Floating City. Led by a local guide, you’ll start your tour of Venice by the Rialto Bridge and learn how the structure was considered so daring in its engineering that critics at the time predicted it would fall (still standing, 420 years later!). Drop by the Rialto Fish Market to hear about the city's fishermen before veering off the beaten path into Cannaregio; one of the loveliest, most authentic areas of Venice. As you wind through Venice’s hidden alleyways, your local guide will regale you with tales of the city’s past and present. Curious about real estate prices? Or how they handle flooding? Now’s your chance to ask a real insider! 

While the atmosphere of Venice is best experienced on a walking tour of its streets and canals, there are some
sights you just can’t miss. St. Mark’s Basilica is top of this list, as long general access lines usually attest.
With pre-reserved tickets, you’ll get straight inside for a 30-minute tour with your guide. Learn how the relics of
St. Mark arrived here by dubious means, admire its incredible gold mosaics and understand why the church’s
east-meets-west architecture is a perfect representation of the city of Venice.

The best is yet to come! At the conclusion of your tour, your local insider will leave you in the expert hands of a
professional gondolier. Climb onboard a traditional Venice gondola (6 people or fewer to a boat) for a half-hour excursion through the city’s canals. Sit back and enjoy exploring the city as it was meant to be seen – from the water!

Must-See Sites

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.

St Mark's Campanile, Venice, Veneto Region

St Mark's Campanile is the bell tower of St Mark's Basilica in Venice, Italy, located in St Mark's Square. It is one of the most recognizable symbols of the city. The current campanile is a reconstruction completed in 1912, the historical tower having collapsed in 1902. Standing at 323 feet, it is the tallest structure in Venice and is colloquially termed "el paròn de casa".

Doge's Palace, Venice, Veneto Region

The Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) is a monumental piece of architecture built in Venetian Gothic style, and one of the main landmarks of the city of Venice, in northern Italy. The palace was the residence of the Doge of Venice, the supreme authority of the former Republic. It was built in 1340, and extended and modified in the following centuries.

Overnight Location

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.

Day 6

Accommodation

4-Star Luxury Palace Stay - Venice, Veneto Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Included Unique Activities

Murano & Burano Small Group Boat Tour

No trip to Venice is complete without discovering the Venetian Lagoon's two most cherished islands. This half day trip to Murano from Venice offers transport by private boat and a dedicated guide throughout. Gain perspective on the ageless arts of glassblowing and lacemaking and the mastery of artisans, as well as delight in the unique charm of the tranquil canals and piazzas of these vibrant islets.

Once you reach the meeting point in central Venice, you'll be whisked off to Murano to see its world-famous
blown glass. Admire the 'City of Bridges' from the water with sweeping views and commentary from your guide as you get ready to witness the magic of Murano glass. All glassmaking was moved to this tiny group of islands in the Middle Ages, and it was the only place where mirrors were made for centuries. Techniques were so secret that perpetrators risked execution for leaking them. Times have changed, but you'll behold exactly what has made Murano glass so sought after for nearly 750 years.

Upon arrival, dock at a specially chosen glassblowing workshop to marvel as craftsmen shape molten glass into dazzling works of art. See these sparkling treasures come to life as you learn how colors and the most ambitious shapes come to be. After browsing in the gallery, explore Murano to enjoy its sleepy canals and San Donato church, a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, without being hurried.

The next stop on your Venice cruise is Burano. Considered by many as one of the most colorful places in the
world, this small fishing community with its brightly colored houses also has some of the finest handmade lace
anywhere. Watch this cultural tradition in action as women stitch by hand, like countless generations before
them. After the demonstration, you will have free time to visit the lace museum, stroll Burano's vibrant
waterways, or shop for souvenirs.

Classic Venice Cooking Class

The lagoon is home to fantastic ingredients from land and sea. From 'bigoli in salsa' to polenta, risotto and ‘baicoli’ biscuits, learning to cook with the lagoon's produce is a voyage of discovery into Venice's long and rich history as a trading crossroads. Take a step off the tourist trail and encounter the real Venice. Learning how to cook in a local home is a wonderful way to gain insight into Italy's real culture. What could be a better souvenir than cooking knowledge to last a lifetime?

During your class, you'll learn how to use the best seasonal ingredients to make an appetizer, traditional pasta made from scratch, and even a decadent dessert!  In the second part of the workshop, sit down and with a good glass of wine and indulge in all your hard work. Cooking and dining with a local host gives you the chance to be welcomed in as one of the family and dive into in the traditions of everyday Italy.

Must-See Sites

Burano, Veneto Region

On the map: Burano is an island in the Venetian Lagoon, northern Italy; like Venice itself, it could more correctly be called an archipelago of four islands linked by bridges. It is situated near Torcello at the northern end of the Lagoon.

Burano is known for its lace work, brightly colored fishermen's houses, and its casual eateries serving seafood from the lagoon. The Museo del Merletto has exhibits on the development of lace-making in the area, and shops sell lace products like linens and clothes, as well as delicious  local butter cookies called "bussolai buranei." This quiet village with only about 2,000 full-time residents allows you to experience the magic of the canals and the picturesque buildings in a more tranquil atmosphere than bustling Venice. 

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.

San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice, Veneto Region

On The Map: San Giorgio Maggiore is one of the islands of Venice, in northern Italy. It is east of the Giudecca and south of the main island group.

San Giorgio Maggiore island is home to a famous 16th-century Benedictine church designed by Andrea Palladio and built between 1566 and 1610. The church is a basilica in the classical renaissance style and its brilliant white marble gleams above the blue water of the lagoon opposite the Piazzetta and forms the focal point of the view from every part of the Riva degli Schiavoni.

Overnight Location

Venice, Veneto Region

On the map: Venice is a city in northeastern Italy and it’s the capital of the Veneto region. The city is built on a group of 118 islands, separated by canals, and linked by more than 400 bridges. The islands are in a shallow lagoon, lying between the mouths of the Po and Piave rivers. 55,000 people live in the historic island city of Venice. Venice is 325 miles north of Rome and 186 miles from Slovenia. It is situated by the Adriatic Sea.

Due to its geographic position, Venice traded with the Byzantine Empire and the Middle East. By the late 13th century, Venice was the most prosperous city in Europe. At  its height, 36,000 Venetian sailors, operating 3,300 ships, dominated Mediterranean trade. Powerful families vied to create the most extravagant homes in Venice, many of which still stand in their glory.

Day 7

Depart From

Depart from Venice Airport, Veneto Region