Explore Rome and Florence by Rail

Once the epicenter of the ancient Roman Empire and now a city whose art and culture are revered globally, Rome is the beginning point for your Italian adventure. On arrival, head to your hotel and become acquainted with your new surroundings before joining a small group tour of Rome this evening. Overnight Rome.

The day is yours to explore Rome. You can spend the day exploring the historic city, enjoying local cuisine, and more. You may choose to start your day with an optional tour of the Vatican Museums. Here, discover one of the richest collections of works of art in the world on a guided tour. You're taken through history, from ancient Roman statues to the first steps of medieval painting and the Renaissance masters before reaching the majestic Sistine Chapel. The renowned masterpiece of Michelangelo's frescoes on the ceiling captivates with its divine beauty and intricate details. Back in the Eternal City this afternoon, continuing exploring at leisure. Overnight Rome.

Today you travel by rail through Italy's picturesque landscapes to beautiful Florence. As you swiftly glide through the scenic countryside, rolling hills adorned with vineyards and charming villages unfold. Soon, you find yourself entering the iconic Tuscan terrain, where olive groves and cypress trees paint a mesmerizing landscape.

Arriving in the Renaissance beauty of Florence, embark on a walking tour of the elegant city. Your guide leads you on a relaxed stroll, pointing out renowned landmarks such as Giotto's bell tower, the Duomo, Piazza della Signoria, Piazza Santa Croce, and Ponte Vecchio. Along with these well-known sites, you also discover hidden gems like the façade of Orsanmichele and the charming 'porcellino' (piglet) fountain. Overnight Florence.

Nowhere in Tuscany exudes more charm than Chianti, and today you have the pleasure of exploring this enchanting region. A delightful drive through gentle rolling hills leads you to Greve, known as the 'Gate of Chianti.' With some time at leisure, explore the town center and immerse yourself in its unhurried way of life.

Your journey continues to a family-run wine estate, where you savor a typical lunch made from local ingredients and expertly paired with the estate's finest wines. Following this delightful meal, head to Montefioralle, a picturesque hamlet adorned with stone walls and climbing roses. While here, enjoy a relaxing stroll along its winding cobbled streets.

On your way back to Florence, you stop in Badia a Passignano. Dating back to the 11th century, this site is home to a fortified abbey dedicated to St. Michael. There's time to explore the surrounding estate, soaking up its historical ambiance. Overnight Florence.

Today you can choose to either explore Florence at leisure or partake on an optional food and/or wine tour.

This optional tour starts at Bar Scudieri in Piazza S.Giovanni, savor a caffè paired with a delightful homemade pastry. Your culinary journey continues to the Mercato Centrale, a grand 19th-century structure teeming with vibrant displays from butchers, fishmongers, and grocers. Take in the lively atmosphere as you wander through the market, pausing to indulge in a delectable fritto toscano-mouthwatering bites of fish and vegetables battered and deep-fried.

Moving towards the city's center, meander through lively alleys to savor a fragrant schiacciata with truffles. Accompanied by a creamy gelato, your journey then leads to Oltrarno, to a tavern with a view over the River Arno. Here, a generous charcuterie board awaits, perfectly paired with a glass of Chianti from the surrounding hills.

Later this afternoon, the delicious flavors continue as you can choose to indulge in a wine tasting at Le Volpi E L'uva wine bar. Three superb wines are accompanied by various types of Tuscan cured meat, cheese and roasted bread. Overnight Florence.

Return to Rome in the morning by train and choose how to spend your final full day. You have the option to embark on a captivating tour dedicated to unravelling the symbols of Rome's Golden Age - the Colosseum and the Forum. The intimate size of your group lets you fully immerse yourself in the experience, transporting you back to an era when Rome reigned as the epicenter of the known world, where Emperors held the power to shape the destiny of lands and people with a single gesture.

Your knowledgeable guide leads you through the colossal amphitheater, the biggest ever constructed, offering insights into its historical significance. Your group then continues to the Forum, the center of Rome's political life from the very beginning of its foundation. The remains of the most noteworthy buildings are still visible today, and your guide's expertise helps breathes life into the bygone era.

You may also choose to spend the day on your own and explore the many other sites of Rome. Overnight Rome.

Your week of Italian explorations, history-rich cities and some of the world's most iconic sites comes to an end today. After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Rome's train station or international airport at leisure for your return home. If you're not ready to say arrivederci to Italy, speak with a Rail Specialist about extending your stay in Rome.