Journeys: Northern Italy, Venice to Florence

Day 1 : Venice

Arrive at any time and meet your fellow travellers at a welcome meeting. After an optional group dinner, join the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) for an evening walk through the city to experience the beauty of Venice under the soft glow of twilight.

Please make your own way to the joining hotel.

Please make every effort to arrive on time for this important welcome meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your Chief Experience Officer will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up.

Acommodation

Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal

Day 2 : Venice

Experience another side of Venice on a visit to nearby Murano Island. Walk through the town’s charming streets and hear stories about Murano’s rise as a glassmaking hub during the Renaissance. Watch master glass blowers transform molten glass into intricate pieces, using traditional techniques and hear from a local expert about how this traditional craftwork has spanned generations and become part of the cultural identity of the Venetian islands. Back in Venice, spend the afternoon exploring on your own. Perhaps visit the Guggenheim Museum, indulge in a Venetian food tour, find a quaint cafe on the Grand Canal or enjoy a Venetian gondola ride.

Optional Activities - Day 2

Acommodation

Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal

Day 3 : Venice/Cinque Terre

Set off from Venice on a drive through the stunning landscapes of northern Italy to La Spezia, gateway to the spectacular Cinque Terre. From here, hop on a train to the seaside village of Monterosso al Mare, one of the area’s 5 villages. Visit the town before choosing how best to continue exploring. Those seeking a more active option can join a local guide for an included moderate hike from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, following a trail along terraced landscapes and charming villages. Alternatively, continue exploring the coastal villages by train with your CEO who will provide additional insight into the region throughout your journey. Return to La Spezia and enjoy an evening exploring on your own.

Acommodation

Hotel Firenze e Continentale La Spezia

Day 4 : Cinque Terre/Florence

Enjoy the morning discovering Cinque Terre on your own or join your CEO on a visit to Portovenere, a charming seaside village with colourful houses and sparkling blue waters. Later, travel south to Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region. Walk through the lively and historic streets with the CEO, stopping for an aperitivo experience with a light dinner at a local bar. After, enjoy an evening stroll back to the hotel, taking in the beauty of the city’s architecture and monuments lit up at night.

Optional Activities - Day 4

Acommodation

Diplomat Hotel Florence

Day 5 : Florence

Set off on a guided tour of Florence, a city renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant history. This walking experience, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Renaissance. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Il Duomo, which took more than 100 years to build. Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Learn about the city's illustrious past, from the powerful Medici family to its world-renowned artists. Afterward, continue to a delightful market, to explore vibrant stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses and cured meats. Savor the flavors of traditional Tuscan cuisine as you sample local products, including the renowned Pecorino cheese. This enriching experience offers a true taste of Florence's culinary heritage and will serve as a light lunch. Enjoy the rest of the day with free time to explore Florence’s many plazas and world-class museums.

Il Duomo is viewed from the outside, admission inside is not included on the walking tour.

Optional Activities - Day 5

Acommodation

Diplomat Hotel Florence

Day 6 : Florence

Take advantage of a free day in Florence to pursue whatever your interests may be. Perhaps visit the Galleria dell'Accademia, the Uffizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace or the Medici Chapels (note that some of the more popular attractions in Florence require pre-booking). Or explore the city on foot, stopping at cafes and gelato shops along the way. After an optional dinner out with the group, set off to the Piazzale Michelangelo and enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Florence, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the picturesque sunset.

Optional Activities - Day 6

Acommodation

Diplomat Hotel Florence

Day 7 : Florence

Depart at any time.