Self-Guided Eternal cities, 5 Terre & Como
Italy in 14 Days • 12 Nights in Destination
Ends May 31st
From
$3,299
/person
Natalie
Travel crafter
An essential journey through Italian history, culture and gastronomy from the eternal cities of Rome, Florence and Venice to the seaside charms of Cinque Terre, the stylish streets of Milan and the tranquil waters of Lake Como.
Trip Highlights
Included
All flights
Accommodation
Some transfers
Activities
Breakfast only
Availability
Departures available until October 2023
Available Group tours
Solo travelers from + $1,710
Add up to 4 nights to your stay
Categories available
superior included
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From $3,299
Accommodation: 12 Nights
Itinerary
A journey through Italian history, culture and gastronomy! Land in the eternal city of Rome, home to the Colosseum, before heading to Florence to experience its Renaissance heritage. Admire the pretty port city of Genoa, discover the villages of Cinque Terre and indulge in the cosmopolitan atmosphere of Milan. Cruise on the legendary Lake Como before immersing yourself in the romance of Venice!
1st Day: US - Night on board
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
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
3217 Reviews
3rd Day: Rome
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.
* 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 Italian meal at a restaurant in Campo Di Fiori: Enjoy an evening of authentic Italian cuisine in beautiful Campo Di Fiori Square, nestled in the heart of historic Rome. Soak up the atmosphere as you indulge in Italian dishes at a local restaurant.
Accommodation
3217 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
Moderate
Light
4th Day: Rome
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.
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
3217 Reviews
Activities
Light
Moderate
5th Day: Rome - Florence
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.
* The hotel in Florence is located just a few minutes walk from the train station, however, it is possible to add a private transfer for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.
Accommodation
1847 Reviews
6th Day: Florence
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
1847 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
7th Day: Florence
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 and visit the spectacular Pisa Cathedral before spending time at the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa, learning all about the history of this University city along the way.
Accommodation
1847 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
8th Day: Florence - Genova
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time self-transfer* to the train station to catch the train to Genova, a charming port city and the capital of Italy's Liguria region. Arrive, transfer to the hotel and get settled in before enjoying the remainder of the day at your leisure. Famed for its maritime history, Genova is known for its lighthouse, pretty harbor, flanked by colorful buildings and mvonumental squares, such as Piazza de Ferrari. Overnight stay in Genova.
* The hotel in Florence is located just a few minutes walk from the train station, however, it is possible to add a private transfer for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.
Accommodation
1063 Reviews
9th Day: Genova
Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the beautiful seaside villages of Cinque Terre* on a full-day excursion today. Self -transfer to the station to catch a train to La Spezia to begin a day of charming landscapes and beautiful sea views. Head to the meeting point before continuing by train to Vernazza, one of the most colorful villages in the region. Spend some free time exploring this picturesque village at your leisure, admiring its pastel-colored houses and spectacular sea views. The next stop of the day is Monterosso, the largest of the Cinque Terre seaside towns. Explore its idyllic beaches and indulge in a delicious limoncello tasting session at a traditional shop. Limoncello is a sweet lemon-flavored liqueur, characteristic of this region. Next up is fabulous Riomaggiore, one of the most photographed villages of Cinque Terre. See the local fishermen going about their daily lives and soak up the traditional atmosphere of this charming place. End the day back in La Spezia before returning by train to Genova. The evening is at your leisure to indulge in the unique flavors of Ligurian cuisine and discover more of Genova. Overnight stay in Genova.
Accommodation
1063 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
10th Day: Genova - Milan
Breakfast at the hotel. Head north today as you transfer to the station to catch a train to Milan. Arrive, transfer to the hotel and, once settled, head to the meeting point to start your city tour of Milan to discover the history and culture of this Gothic city. Stop at Parco Sempione and Castello Sforzesco, a medieval fortress rebuilt and embellished by the Sforza family in 1450. Walk through the surrounding gardens and admire the castle from the outside. Continue to the Teatro alla Scala, the Milanese Salone and the Tempio dell'Opera. See the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, an opulent shopping arcade, famous for its vaulted glass and iron arches, before admiring the incredible Duomo Cathedral from the outside, a true architectural marvel and the fifth largest cathedral in Europe! The remainder of the day is free to enjoy Milan at your leisure. Why not go out for a few scoops of gelato this evening or pay a visit to the fabulous Vittorio Emanuele II shopping arcade, one of the most famous sights in Milan. Overnight stay in Milan.
Accommodation
1471 Reviews
Activities
Light
11th Day: Milan - Lake Como - Milan
Breakfast at the hotel. Leave the hustle and bustle behind as you set off on a full-day excursion to Lake Como and Bellagio. Head to the meeting point and depart northwards to the Italian Alps, home to the stunning shores of Lake Como, one of the most sought-after destinations in the country. Known for its tranquil waters and glamorous resorts, explore the natural beauty of the surroundings and enjoy some free time for shopping or lunch. Afterwards, embark on a 2-hour cruise across Lake Como to take in the Alpine views and cool, clear air. Disembark at the upmarket town of Belaggio and spend some time at your leisure to get to know its charming streets and cosmopolitan cafes before returning to Milan. Overnight stay in Milan.
Accommodation
1471 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
12th Day: Milan - Venice Mestre
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, 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 at your leisure. 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 on this eternal city, such as the immense Piazza San Marco. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre.
* The hotel in Venice Mestre is located just a few minutes walk from the train station, however, it is possible to add a private transfer for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.
Accommodation
3348 Reviews
13th Day: Venice
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
3348 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
Light
14th Day: Venice - US
Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer by car from Venice Mestre to the airport for your return flight back to the US. Arrive in the US 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 the US the next day and the total duration of the trip would be 15 days.
Included activity for day 3 in Rome
Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Walking Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill
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.
What's included: Skip-the-line entrance tickets: Colosseum - Palatine Hill - Roman Forum, Authorized guide and headphones Not included: Hotel pick up and drop off
Included activity for day 6 in Florence
Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 09:00 Approx
Physical rating:
Guided Walking Tour of 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.
What's included: Walking tour in Florence with professional guide Not included: Hotel pick up and drop off. Food and beverages.
Included activity for day 9
Duration 08:00h Approx. Pick up time: 10:00 Approx
Physical rating:
Full-Day Excursion to Cinque Terre
Beginning from La Spezia, depart on an incredible tour through three Cinque Terre villages. Traveling by train, experience the pastel-colored buildings of Vernazza, enjoy limoncello tasting in Monterosso and admire the quaint charms of Riomaggiore!
What's included: Cinque Terre train card, multi-lingual guide, limoncello tasting, free time in Vernazza, Riomaggiore and Monterosso.
Included activity for day 10 in Milan
Duration 02:30h Approx. Pick up time: 09:30 Approx
Physical rating:
Milan City Tour
Discover Milan, from the medieval Castello Sforzesco to the Teatro alla Scala, the iconic Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II and the famous Duomo Cathedral as you explore the most emblematic sights in this Gothic city.
Not included: Hotel Pick up and drop off
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Suggested activity for day 3 in Rome
Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 09:30 Approx
Physical rating:
Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion
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.
What's included: Professional licensed guide and headsets. Not included: Pick up and return to the hotel.
Suggested activity for day 3 in Rome
Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Authentic Italian Lunch at a restaurant in Campo Di Fiori in Rome
Enjoy a lunch of authentic Italian cuisine in beautiful Campo Di Fiori Square, nestled in the heart of historic Rome. Soak up the atmosphere as you indulge in Italian dishes at a local restaurant.
Suggested activity for day 4
Pick up time: info at destination
Pack of 2 Excursions: Must-sees of Italy
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
What's included: Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel & Gondola ride experience in Venice
Suggested activity for day 4 in Rome
Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel
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 Basilica and St. Peter's Square.
What's included: Skip the line entrance tickets, professional guide, and headsets. Not included: Drop off at hotels. Pick up from hotels outside city center, in this case the meeting point will be Via Santamaura, 28
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Departures from main US airports.
International flights: US - Rome, Venice - US.
Domestic high-speed train in standard class: Rome - Florence - Genova - La Spezia - Genova - Milan - Venice Mestre.
12 nights accommodation in Superior category hotels.
12 breakfasts.
Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles as indicated in the itinerary.**
Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
Cruise on Lake Como.
Guided walking tours in Florence, Milan and Venice.
Guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in Rome.
Full-Day Excursion to Cinque Terre and Lake Como
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. Distances are short and the hotels are located within a few minutes walk from the train stations, however, they can be added for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.
See important notes
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.
Important: please bear in mind that the accommodation included in Venice is located in Venice Mestre, which is situated outside the island, approximately 15 minutes away by train, bus or Taxi.
Useful information Italy
Entry requirements
Valid passport required.
Visa
No visa is required to enter the country.
Currency
Euro.
Language
Italian.
Electricity
220 V. No adapter required.
Health
There are no mandatory vaccinations for travellers from the US.
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
Offer conditions
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 and prefer to go at your own pace, please contact our customer service team at +1 888-488-0592 or via our contact form.
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