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  Included

    Operated with English or Spanish-speaking local guides during visits to Rome Vatican Museums* and Siena (Day 2 3 5)

  
  

    5 nights’ accommodation

  
  

    5 Breakfasts

  
  

    Arrival private transfer from Rome International Airport or Train Station (Day 1)

  
  

    Shared transportation as indicated in the itinerary for the scheduled activities (Day 2 3 5)

  
  

    Private transfer from/ to train stations (Day 4)

  
  

    2nd class tickets per person for high-speed train Rome-Florence (Day 4)

  
  

    Departure private transfer to Florence International Airport (Day 6)

  
  

    All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: guided National Museum and Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli tour (Day 2); Vatican Museums tour (Day 3); San Gimignano visit typical Tuscan winery visit including wine tasting Siena sightseen tour (Day 5); all activities on a shared basis with small groups

  
  

    Meet & Greet (driver only) (Day 1 4)

  
  

  Exclusions

  Visa fees

  
  

    Domestic flights

  
  

    International flights

  
  

    Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise)

  
  

    Optional tours (if any)

  
  

    City tax not included payable on the spot

  
  

    Any visit not mentioned in the program

  
  

    Porterage and gratuities

  
  

    Expenditures of a personal nature drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program

  
  

    Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks mineral water camera/video camera fee (if any)

  
  

    Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays accidents etc.

TRAVELING TO ITALY

Sun-drenched flavors, vibrant colors, the aromas of coffee and basil, warm hospitality, and a melodic language: Italy is a constant invitation to live life to the fullest. Traveling in Italy means slowing down, savoring every moment, and embracing a way of life unlike anywhere else in Europe. The country boasts an exceptional heritage, shaped by the many peoples and civilizations that have passed through it over the centuries. From Rome to Florence, from Venice to Naples, history is written everywhere—in stone, in art, and in traditions that are still very much alive.

The capital of this vast heritage, Rome alone embodies the grandeur of Antiquity and deep religious devotion. Italy covers an area of 302,073 km², speaks Italian, and uses the euro as its currency. The country is six hours ahead of Montreal, operates on a 230 V electrical system, and its international dialing code is +39.

DID YOU KNOW…

Italy is the country with the highest number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the world, with no fewer than 58 listed locations. This extraordinary wealth reflects the country’s diversity, bringing together spectacular natural landscapes, ancient ruins, artistic cities, and living traditions. This versatility is undoubtedly what makes Italy such a universal destination, offering something for every traveler.

The Italian flag, proudly displayed throughout the country, draws its colors from powerful symbols. Green represents the mountains and fertile plains, white symbolizes the eternal snow of the Alpine peaks, and red recalls the blood shed by those who fought for the nation’s unity.

Italy also has one of the oldest populations in Europe. Nearly a quarter of its inhabitants are over the age of 65, a result of low birth rates and gradual population aging. Finally, Italy is considered the world’s largest wine producer. Each region cultivates its own grape varieties and winemaking traditions, resulting in remarkable diversity—from Chianti and Brunello to Amarone.

ROME

Rome is often the first stop on a journey through Italy—and for good reason. An open-air museum, the city is best explored on foot, wandering through lively alleys, grand squares, and ancient monuments. The Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Pantheon recall the splendor of the Roman Empire, while the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona embody Italian elegance and charm.

No visit to Rome is complete without entering the Vatican. This tiny state is home to priceless treasures, from St. Peter’s Square to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, as well as the Sistine Chapel and Michelangelo’s Last Judgment. The Vatican Museums complete this extraordinary immersion into art and spirituality.

FLORENCE

Florence is unquestionably the jewel of Tuscany and one of the greatest cradles of the Renaissance. The city contains an astonishing number of museums, palaces, and works of art—so much so that it is said to house nearly half of Italy’s artistic heritage. The Duomo dominates the skyline with its majestic dome, offering breathtaking views after the climb.

The Uffizi Gallery captivates visitors with its masterpieces, while the Basilica of San Miniato al Monte provides an unforgettable panorama, especially at sunset. Florence is also the perfect gateway to the Tuscan countryside, famous for its rolling hills, vineyards, and picturesque villages.

PISA

Pisa is world-famous for its Leaning Tower, but the city deserves more than a brief stop. Piazza dei Miracoli brings together the city’s most iconic monuments, including the cathedral and the baptistery—true architectural masterpieces. Venturing slightly away from the crowds reveals quieter squares, lively shopping streets, and an authentically Italian atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a meal or a coffee on a terrace.

VENICE

Venice is a city suspended in time, built on water, where every canal tells a story. Romantic by nature, it enchants visitors with its gondolas, elegant bridges, and unique atmosphere. St. Mark’s Square, the beating heart of the city, leads to the golden mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace, symbols of the Serenissima’s glorious past.

The nearby islands of Murano and Burano enrich the experience—Murano for its renowned glassmaking tradition, Burano for its brightly colored houses and picturesque charm. In February, Carnival transforms Venice into an open-air stage, drawing visitors from around the world.

CINQUE TERRE

The Cinque Terre form a spectacular collection of five villages perched on steep cliffs overlooking the sea. Connected by hiking trails, trains, or boats, they offer some of Italy’s most iconic views. Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore each have their own character, yet all share a perfect harmony between human settlement and nature.

NAPLES AND THE AMALFI COAST

Naples is a vibrant, intense, and deeply authentic city. Its historic center—the largest in Europe—is filled with churches, squares, and monuments. It is also the birthplace of pizza, a global symbol of Italian cuisine. Nearby, Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius stand as powerful reminders of nature’s force and the fragility of civilizations.

The Amalfi Coast extends this magic with villages clinging to dramatic cliffs. Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello offer vertiginous views over the Mediterranean, while Capri enchants visitors with its natural beauty, famous Blue Grotto, and timeless elegance.

SICILY AND SARDINIA

Sicily is a land of contrasts where idyllic beaches, active volcanoes, and ancient ruins coexist in perfect harmony. From Palermo to Taormina, via Mount Etna and the Valley of the Temples, the island reveals exceptional cultural and natural richness.

Sardinia, by contrast, captivates with the wild beauty of its coastline and the purity of its beaches. Cagliari, the Costa Smeralda, and the Maddalena Archipelago represent a more discreet side of Italy, ideal for travelers seeking nature and relaxation.

ITALIAN CUISINE

Italian gastronomy is far more than food—it is a culture and a passion passed down through generations. From Neapolitan pizza to handmade pasta, from antipasti to iconic desserts like tiramisu and cannoli, every dish tells a story. Ingredients are simple yet always of exceptional quality, elevated by ancestral know-how.

SAFETY, HEALTH, AND ETIQUETTE

Italy is a safe country where basic precautions are sufficient, particularly in heavily touristed areas. Medical care is of good quality, although travel insurance is strongly recommended. The country is predominantly Catholic, and churches require modest attire during visits.

Italians are known for their expressiveness, strong family ties, and warm conviviality. In the early evening, squares and streets become true gathering places. Respecting the local rhythm of life—including afternoon breaks in certain regions—is an integral part of the Italian experience.

Name: Gems of Rome and Florence

Brand: Pathways of the World

Quality: Tourist Class

Tour Type: Escorted

Start City: Rome

End City: Florence

Vacation Overview:

Discover some of Italy’s essentials during this six-day cultural trip. Visit the Eternal City of Rome, the National and the Vatican Museums. Explore Florence’s unique artistic and cultural centre. Discover the small medieval town of San Gimignano and stop by a typical Tuscan winery where you will visit the cellars and vineyards. Marvel at Siena’s gorgeous architecture and beautiful Main Square.