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    Self-Guided Eternal Cities & Tuscany

    Italy in 11 Days, 9 Nights in Destination

    Natalie, Travel Expert

    Natalie
    Travel crafter

    Our classic self-guided tour in Italy, independently by train, from the legendary Colosseum with an included tour in Rome to the Renaissance heritage of Florence, the idyllic towns of Tuscany, and the romantic canals of Venice.

    Trip Highlights

    1. map-pin-check-icon
      Florence
    2. map-pin-check-icon
      Rome
    3. map-pin-check-icon
      Tuscany
    4. map-pin-check-icon
      Venice

    Included

    1. All flights

    2. Accommodation

    3. Some transfers

    4. Activities

    5. Breakfast only

    Availability

    1. Departures available until December 2026

    2. Available Group tours

    3. Solo travelers from + $1,450

    4. Add up to 3 nights to your stay

    5. WHAT'S THIS?

    Categories available

    1. charm included

    2. superior from + $500

    3. WHAT'S THIS?

    From

    $6,379

    $3,499

    /person

    -45%

    Book with an expert:

    1 778 807 9750

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    Best Price Guarantee

    SmartFare has secured the lowest fares on flights & services for this trip

    Itinerary

    Travel to Italy to indulge in a country full of rich history, culture and gastronomy. Land in Rome and explore its cultural delights, such as the Colosseum, before heading to Florence to discover its hidden treasures and Renaissance heritage. Go wine-tasting in the Tuscan countryside and explore the romantic canals and atmospheric streets of Venice.

    1st Day: Canada - Night on board

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    Pack your bags and head to your departure airport, ready for a flight* to the eternal city of Rome. Night on board.

    * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

    2nd Day: Rome

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    Arrive in Rome, the Italian capital, and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day is free to begin exploring this romantic, historic city. The evening is the most magical time of day in Rome when the streets take on an even more charming character. Overnight stay in Rome.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Rome Garden Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    639 Reviews

    See our full selection

    3rd Day: Rome

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the meeting point and enjoy a guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill*, three of the main archaeological sites of the Eternal City. Learn about the history of this empire, from its birth to the gladiatorial fights in the Colosseum, and appreciate the preserved corners of ancient Rome in the Forum and the Palatine Hill. We recommend the optional Piazzas and Fountains of Rome excursion.** The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the historic streets of Rome and dine on delicious Italian cuisine!*** Overnight stay in Rome.

    * Time and days in Rome can be changed according to the availability of the Colosseum tickets. It will be confirmed 15 days before arrival. However, all included excursions are already guaranteed. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities.

    ** Optional Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion: Take a pleasant walk through the artistic heart of Rome to visit its most symbolic piazzas and fountains! Visit Piazza Navona, the most elegant of all Rome squares and home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain. See the Church of San Luigi, the incredible Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain, an icon of the city. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, the most photogenic spot in the city!

    *** Optional Authentic Roman Dining Experience: Savor an evening of authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of historic Rome. Let the charm of the city envelop you as you enjoy traditional Italian dishes at a local restaurant, fully immersed in the rich flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Roman culture.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Rome Garden Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    639 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Walking Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

    Moderate

    See more
    Optional
    Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion

    Moderate

    See more
    Optional
    Authentic Roman Dining Experience

    Light

    See more

    4th Day: Rome

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    After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day at your leisure in Rome. Perhaps visit the Vatican, trace the footsteps of the greats in the ancient streets of the old city or simply indulge in some delicious Italian ice cream. However you choose to spend your day, Rome is sure to delight you with its old-world charm and unbeatable sights. We suggest taking the optional Guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel*. Overnight stay in Rome.

    Optional Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel: Explore the priceless treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit the Pio Clementino Hall, Laocoon and Apollo Belvedere, Maps Gallery, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel. Afterwards, discover the incredible St. Peter’s Basilica and the atmospheric St. Peter’s Square, dominated by Michelangelo’s imposing Cupola!

    Please note: Optional tour available Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays afternoon, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only.

    Note: Starting in December 2024, Rome and Vatican City will host religious and cultural events related to the Jubilee, attracting thousands of visitors. Celebrated every 25 years, this is a special time for Italy, bringing additional activity to its historic sites. 
    Due to the Jubilee, the itinerary may be impacted, especially at the Vatican, where special visits, crowd levels, and other circumstances may affect access.

    Why not upgrade your trip with our Must see`s of Italy package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Rome Garden Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    639 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    Pack of 2 Excursions: Must-sees of Italy

    Moderate

    See more
    Optional
    Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

    Moderate

    See more

    5th Day: Rome - Florence

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    Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, meet your transfer and head to the train station to catch the Frecciarossa high-speed train to Florence. Arrive in Florence, the heart of the Italian Renaissance, and self-transfer to the hotel. Rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city and keep enjoying the Italian cuisine in this gourmet paradise. Overnight stay in Florence.

     

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Galileo Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    581 Reviews

    See our full selection

    6th Day: Florence

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the Historic Centre of Florence for a guided walking tour of Florence and discover the hidden secrets of the Tuscan capital. Start discovering Piazza Repubblica, one of the fanciest of the city, before heading to Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, a building where a local market takes place. Keep exploring the streets of Florence before arriving at the beautiful and well-known Ponte Vecchio, the most iconic bridge in the city and one of its main symbols. You will then walk through the Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Medieval Florence with the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. End the tour admiring Piazza San Giovanni, home to the impressive Florence Cathedral, with its iconic Brunelleschi cupola and the famous Giotto Belltower. Rest of the day at your leisure to continue exploring the captivating sights of Florence. Overnight stay in Florence.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Galileo Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    581 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Guided City Tour of Florence

    Moderate

    See more

    7th Day: Florence - Monteriggioni - Siena - San Gimignano - Chianti - Florence

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Set off on a full-day excursion to the most beautiful and historic towns and cities in Tuscany! Begin at the medieval hilltop town of Monteriggioni, known for its rustic streets and Renaissance-era atmosphere, before continuing to beautiful Siena, home to splendid Gothic architecture. Take a guided tour of the Piazza del Campo and Piazza del Duomo, to admire the imposing cathedral. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore at your leisure before continuing to San Gimignano, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can take some time for independent sightseeing and pay a visit to Gelateria Dondoli to taste authentic Italian gelato (own expense). Next, head to the rolling hills of the Chianti region to visit a wine estate. Enjoy a tasting session of high-quality wines, local snacks and fresh olive oils for an indulgent taste of authentic Tuscany! Return to Florence and take the evening to enjoy the city at your leisure. Overnight stay in Florence.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Galileo Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    581 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Full-Day Charming Tuscany & Wine-Tasting Excursion

    Moderate

    See more

    8th Day: Florence

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Full day at your leisure to enjoy your last day in the city. Florence's historical centre is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so why not take a stroll on your own to discover its hidden treasures. Overnight stay in Florence.

    Optional Half-Day Tour to Pisa & The Leaning Tower: No trip to Italy is complete without a photo at the iconic leaning tower, so don't miss your chance to take a day trip to Pisa! Enjoy a guided walking tour of Piazza dei Miracoli and its monuments before spending time at the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa, learning all about the history of this University city along the way. 

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Galileo Hotel or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    581 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    Optional
    Half-Day Tour to Pisa & The Leaning Tower

    Moderate

    See more

    9th Day: Florence - Venice Mestre

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    Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer to the station to catch the Frecciarossa high-speed train to Venice (Mestre Station). Arrive in the romantic city of Venice, self-transfer to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day in the historic and enchanting Venice Mestre, the mainland town connected to Venice by rail and road bridges over the lagoon. Spend the night at your leisure and embrace the convenience of numerous transportation options, such as the frequent trains/buses to Venice center. The train station/bus stop is at walking distance from your hotel and it will take you to the iconic Venice center.

    Venice built across more than 100 small islands, Venice is a pleasure to explore on foot as you get lost in the labyrinthine streets, stumbling across hidden cafes and cultural gems along the way. Get out and discover the plentiful delights of this eternal city, such as the immense Piazza San Marco. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre.

    * You will have the option to add the transfers in the next step of the booking process.

    Important: please bear in mind that the accommodation included in Venice is located in Venice Mestre, which is situated outside the island, approximately 25-30 minutes away by train, bus or Taxi.

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Hotel Venezia or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    1040 Reviews

    See our full selection

    10th Day: Venice

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    Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set off on a guided walking tour through Venice, through the fascinating streets and across the canals; a crossroads of culture where East meets West. Admire the Basilica and Piazza of San Marco next to Gothic-style Doge's Palace, the Campanile and the Clock Tower stand. Soak up the lively atmosphere of the Campo, a bustling square next to the Church of Santa Maria. Continue to marvel at the grand Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo, uncover legendary tales of Marco Polo and finally return to St. Mark’s Square by strolling through the main Venetian shopping street, the Mercerie, and immerse yourself in the historic buzz of the city. The rest of the day is at your leisure to continue discovering this unique city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre.

    *Optional Gondola Ride Experience: One of the most famous characteristics of Venice is its historic gondolas and now you can be a part of this legacy yourself! Experience an unforgettable 35-minute gondola ride through the charming waterways of Venice including the iconic Grand Canal. The quintessential Venetian experience! Note: Please note that it is a shared gondola (up to five people for each one) so you might have to share it with other people.

    Why not upgrade your trip with our Must see`s of Italy package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!

    Accommodation

    ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
    Hotel Venezia or similar
    tripadvisor rating

    1040 Reviews

    See our full selection

    Activities

    included
    Guided City Tour of Venice

    Active

    See more
    Optional
    Gondola Ride in Venice

    Light

    See more

    11th Day: Venice - Canada

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    Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer by car from Venice Mestre to the airport for your return flight back to Canada. Arrive in Canada and end your trip.

    * Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

    ** Depending on the return flight schedule, you may arrive in Canada the next day and the total duration of the trip would be 12 days.

    Categories

    charm

    From $3,499

    Selected
    • Accommodation in Charm category hotels.
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    superior

    From $3,999

    • Accommodation in Superior category hotels.

    Pick a date and start customising your trip

    Learn more

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    May 2025
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    Included activities

    Included

    Walking Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

    Included activity for day 3 in Rome

    Take a guided walking tour of three of the main archaeological sites in Rome. Learn about the history of this empire, from its birth to the gladiator fights of the Colosseum and appreciate the relics of ancient Rome at the Forum and Palatine Hill.

    Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    It is forbidden to enter the Colosseum with suitcases, backpacks and bulky bags and there is no luggage storage inside the Colosseum. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities

    more information
    Included

    Guided City Tour of Florence

    Included activity for day 6 in Florence

    Discover the highlights of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, on a guided walking tour. Highlights include the historic Ponte Vecchio bridge, Piazza della Signoria, Piazza San Giovanni, the iconic Florence Cathedral and the Giotto Belltower.

    Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    Meeting point: Via Cavour 12 Nero. Pick up time depending on the date of the tour. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities

    more information
    Included

    Full-Day Charming Tuscany & Wine-Tasting Excursion

    Included activity for day 7

    A full-day excursion to the most beautiful cities and towns in Tuscany. Visit rustic Monteriggioni, captivating Siena and explore San Gimignano. Afterwards, head into the Chianti region to visit a wine estate and enjoy wine tasting with local snacks.

    Duration 08:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    From 1 november to 31 march this tour is not guaranteed every day but every other day..Meeting point: Piazzale Montelungo There will be free time in San Gimignano and Monteriggioni.

    more information
    Included

    Guided City Tour of Venice

    Included activity for day 10 in Venice

    Take a guided walking tour through Venice to learn about the culture and artistic heritage of the city. Stroll through the city, visit the iconic Rialto Bridge and cruise on the Giudecca Canal!

    Duration 01:30h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Active

    Meeting point: Alilaguna Tickets Office. In front of the Royal Garden. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities.

    more information

    Available Activities

    Activities are subject to availability. The price for each optional activity will be shown in the next step of the booking process.
    Optional

    Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion

    Suggested activity for day 3 in Rome

    Discover the most symbolic piazzas and fountains in Rome! Visit Piazza Navona, home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain and see the Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna.

    Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    This tour only operates Tuesdays, Thursdays and Satudays. Meeting Point: In front of the theatre Argentina. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time

    more information
    Optional

    Authentic Roman Dining Experience

    Suggested activity for day 3 in Rome

    Savor an evening of authentic Italian cuisine in the heart of historic Rome. Let the charm of the city envelop you as you enjoy traditional Italian dishes at a local restaurant, fully immersed in the rich flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Roman culture.

    Physical rating:

    Light

    In case of being vegetarians, notify in advance to adapt the menu. In 2024, the dinner will take place in Campo di Fiori, while in 2025, it will be in Trastevere.

    more information
    Optional

    Pack of 2 Excursions: Must-sees of Italy

    Suggested activity for day 4

    Make the most of your time in Italy with this pack of two unmissable experiences: a Skip-the-line guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel and a gondola ride in Venice.

    Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    Vatican info: Tour NOT available Wednesdays morning and Sundays. Please avoid booking the activities included in this package separately.

    more information
    Optional

    Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

    Suggested activity for day 4 in Rome

    Explore the treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit Pio Clementino Hall, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel, among other sights. Also discover St. Peter's Square.

    Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

    Physical rating:

    Moderate

    This tour will be at 9.45am or 1h45pm.Time and date will be reconfirmed on voucher.Tour NOT available on Sundays.

    more information

    Show more

    The price includes

    • Departures from main Canadian airports.
    • International flights: Canada - Rome, Venice - Canada.
    • Domestic high-speed train in standard class: Rome - Florence - Venice Mestre.
    • 9 nights accommodation in Charm category hotels.
      See hotels included
    • 9 breakfasts.
    • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles as indicated in the itinerary.*
      more information
    • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.**
      more information
      See itinerary
    • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
    • Wine tasting in Chianti wine region
    • Guided walking tours in Florence and Venice. Full-day excursion to Siena, San Gimignano, Monteriggioni & Chianti.*
      more information
    • Guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill.

    Not included

    Tax*, drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.

    * Accommodation tax in Italy must be paid directly to the hotel (Approx. 6 € per person per night).

    ** Transfers from Florence station - hotel, hotel - Florence station and Venice Mestre station - hotel are not included. They can be added for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.

    Meeting points: the included tours will depart from designated meeting points. The location of the meeting points will be included in your trip details. Transfers to the meeting points are not included.

    Hotel ratings in Italy are not governed by the same standards as those in Canada so please keep this in mind when selecting your desired accommodation category.

    * The shuttle service from the airport to the hotel will wait for you up to one hour after the arrival of your flight. If your flight is delayed or you experience issues collecting your luggage please get in touch with the local provider.

    Please note: this itinerary is an independent tour, not a group tour. It includes accommodation, some activities and some transfers, but you will not be accompanied by a guide throughout the entire trip, nor will you be traveling in a group. As an independent tour, the dates of the excursions may differ based on the availability of the tours. The final date will be available on the voucher uploaded on your Exoticca account prior to departure.

    Meeting points: the included tours will depart from designated meeting points. The location of the meeting points will be included in your trip details. Transfers to the meeting points are not included.

    ** Time and days in Rome can be changed according to the availability of the Colosseum tickets. It will be confirmed 15 days before arrival. However, all included excursions are already guaranteed.

    Note: Starting in December 2024, Rome and Vatican City will host religious and cultural events related to the Jubilee, attracting thousands of visitors. Celebrated every 25 years, this is a special time for Italy, bringing additional activity to its historic sites. 
    Due to the Jubilee, the itinerary may be impacted, especially at the Vatican, where special visits, crowd levels, and other circumstances may affect access.

    Important: please bear in mind that the accommodation included in Venice is located in Venice Mestre, which is situated outside the island, approximately 25-30 minutes away by train, bus or Taxi.

    ** If you visit during a religious or an official event or during a national holiday, certain attractions may be closed.

    Important: The availability of some activities cannot be guaranteed during major holidays, including Christmas & Holy Week.

    Due to the nature of the destination the terrain can be uneven at times, it may require you to walk on a rocky path, and up and down hills.

    Important: Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities.

    • Entry requirements

      Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity required.

    • Visa

      No visa is required to enter the country.

    • Currency

      Euro.

    • Language

      Italian.

    • Electricity

      220 V. Adapter required.

    • Health

      There are no mandatory vaccinations for travellers.

    • Time zone

      GMT + 01:00.

    • Other useful information

      Italian cuisine is one of the most prominent in the world. The national dish is pasta.

    • Tourist Office website

      http://www.italia.it/en/home.html

    Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

    Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

    In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.

    If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +1 778 807 9750 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.

    While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

    Pay in installments

    Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.

    Pay the rest in installments depending on your departure date

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