10-Day Rome, Florence & Venice Itinerary: Art, Food & Iconic Italy

The twin brothers Romulus and Remus, as the legend goes, were the founders of Rome. They founded it in 753 BC. The city developed into the core of the Roman Republic before it became the Roman Empire and eventually it became the religious hub of Christianity during the 4th century. The present-day capital of Italy showcases both modernity and contemporary style but no place in the world demonstrates its historical heritage as strongly as this city does. The city has received its first human imprint from emperors, popes, artists and common people since its founding more than 2,500 years ago.

The city presents three main attractions which include ancient ruins and two religious sites with their Vatican treasures. Your most cherished memories probably stem from basic experiences which include spending time at Campo de’ Fiori cafes, exploring piazzas under sunlight and observing the nightly streetwalks of the passeggiata. The initial experience of Rome shows its massive size and disorganized nature but walking through its streets allows you to discover its hidden residential character. The same square becomes your regular spot because you will encounter people who recognize you during your multiple visits.

This is Rome! A place of beautiful contradictions, where history and everyday life are constantly intertwined.

Enjoy a three-hour tour through one of the world’s most remarkable art collections as you explore the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Once the private domain of the Popes, the Museums now showcase masterpieces spanning centuries from ancient Roman sculptures and early Christian works to the heights of the Renaissance.

Your experienced guide will accompany a limited number of participants through art galleries which lead to the Sistine Chapel. The artwork of Michelangelo produces an unforgettable experience through his Last Judgment and ceiling paintings. The viewers who saw these works for the first time would have experienced the same level of wonder which these masterpieces created when they were first displayed.

*Inclusions: 3-hour small-group experience (max 8 pax) with an English-speaking guide, Pick-up from a designated meeting point, Vatican Museums entrance fees*

**Exclusions: Hotel pick-up from centrally located hotels (available upon request at extra cost), Hotel drop-off**

A private tour of Ancient Rome's essential landmarks will transport you back to the historical period of Ancient Rome. The Colosseum entrance through its monumental arches will grant you priority access to explore the Roman Forum ruins without needing to spend time waiting in crowded lines.

A knowledgeable expert will lead you through historical accounts which describe how gladiators, emperors and engineering achievements established Rome as the dominant force of the ancient world. The Colosseum stands as the biggest amphitheater which was constructed during ancient times to serve as a venue for Roman public spectacles. Despite its history of bloodshed, it remains one of the great wonders of the world and a lasting symbol of Roman ingenuity.

From there, continue into the Forum, once the vibrant center of political, commercial and social life. As you explore temples, arches and public spaces, your guide will help bring this archaeological site back to life.

*Inclusions: 3-hour private guided experience with a state-licensed guide, Entrance fees to the Colosseum*

Built on the site of an ancient Etruscan settlement, Florence rose to economic and cultural prominence under the Medici in the 15th and 16th centuries. Inspired by a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman thought, the city helped to develop new ways of seeing the world and gave birth to humanism.

The old city walls contain an exceptional artistic collection which includes more than thirty percent of the world's most valuable artistic masterpieces according to certain calculations. The museum houses three famous artworks which include Michelangelo’s David, Caravaggio’s Medusa and Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. The architectural design of Florence displays Renaissance principles which include order, beauty and balance through its use of symmetrical domes and its harmonious arrangement of courtyards, arcades and fountains.

The historic center can be explored by walking a short distance which leads to museums and churches that contain the biggest Renaissance art collection in the world. The Uffizi Gallery, Galleria dell'Accademia and the Duomo stand as three of the most notable attractions in the area. The city of Florence stands as the symbol which represents the Renaissance period.

Discover Florence on a leisurely walking tour that brings you face to face with its most iconic monuments. Walk through the historic center and admire the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, crowned by Brunelleschi’s famous dome, Giotto’s elegant Bell Tower and the Baptistery of St. John, one of the city’s oldest and most beloved buildings.

Continue to the Ponte Vecchio, the storied bridge spanning the Arno River, lined with jewelry shops that recall Florence’s artisan traditions. From there, make your way to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city for centuries and now an open-air museum filled with statues, including a replica of Michelangelo’s David.

This private tour offers an ideal introduction to Florence’s art, history and enduring charm, setting the scene for the rest of your stay.

*Inclusions: 3-hour private guided experience with a state-licensed guide, Hotel pick-up within city center limits (on foot)*

Embark on a delicious private food tour through the heart of Florence, where the city’s culinary traditions unfold alongside its famous landmarks. Begin with a gentle walk past key sights before arriving at the bustling central food market, the beating heart of local gastronomy.  

The event allows you to encounter genuine vendors who will present their premium olive oils and balsamic vinegars while you experience their unique taste profiles. The event continues with a directed cheese tasting experience which demonstrates how different Parmigiano Reggiano ages produce distinct flavors before guests enjoy Tuscan salami and ham with warm focaccia. The experience begins with truffle oil aromas which lead to a selection of classic cookies that display the local sweet treats.

The experience provides you with food satisfaction while it presents the historical narrative of Florence's culinary traditions and its relationship with its native environment. The eating process reveals different chapters of the city through each stop which delivers fresh knowledge about its culinary traditions.

*Inclusions: 3-hour private guided experience with an English-speaking guide, Hotel pick-up (on foot), Food tastings including olive oil, cheese, cured meats with focaccia, truffle oil and a selection of cookies*

The city of Venice exists as a lagoon settlement which spans across 117 small islands in northern Italy's Veneto region where the Adriatic Sea meets the land. The city along with its surrounding lagoon holds UNESCO World Heritage status while becoming one of the planet's most famous tourist spots because of its artistic and architectural beauty and its special ambiance. The city of Venice exists as a place where music and performance unite with its theatrical buildings and its musical gondola songs while maintaining its tradition of romantic and pleasurable activities. 

Because the historic center is car-free, you’ll explore Venice on foot and by boat. That’s part of its charm. Let yourself wander through the network of narrow streets and passageways, cross large and small bridges just to see where they lead and slip away from the crowds to discover quiet neighborhoods where Venetians live and work.

This is Venice! A city that seems to rise directly from the water, as if conjured from a film set or a dream.

Capture the essence of Venice on a private walking tour through its historic center. Begin in the iconic St. Mark’s Square, where the city’s power and wealth are written in stone and marble. Here, your guide will introduce the stories behind the square’s most famous landmarks and the role they played in Venetian history.

The path from St. Mark’s leads you to explore less crowded streets which connect to various small squares known as campi. The city provides visitors with an intimate experience because its car-free streets lead to canal views,  bridge sightings and secluded areas which create distant spaces from public areas.

Your tour ends in the lively Rialto area which used to be Venice's commercial center. The historic Rialto Bridge leads you across the Grand Canal while you experience the energetic atmosphere of nearby markets which serve as shopping destinations for both residents and tourists who want to buy their daily needs and fresh produce. 

This walk offers a balanced introduction to Venice’s must-see sights and its more authentic side, helping you feel at home in this unique city.

*Inclusions: 2-hour private experience with a licensed guide, Pick-up from a designated meeting point*

Set out on a private excursion to Murano and Burano, two of the Venetian Lagoon’s most picturesque islands. With a local guide and private water taxi at your disposal, you’ll enjoy an intimate look at the traditions and everyday life that make these islands so special.

Your first destination should be Murano because this island has maintained its glassmaking tradition since the 10th century. Watch master glassblowers create delicate glass forms at a functioning furnace which operates as their workshop. Your guide will show you their work while explaining how techniques have evolved through time and why Murano glass earned its reputation as a premium product worldwide.

The next stop will be Burano which stands as a colorful island that showcases its fishermen's houses through their colorful designs and maintains its ancient lace-making heritage. Your guide will lead you through the island's tight streets while explaining the historical background of its vibrant buildings and its tradition of maritime exploration. You will also get to encounter a local craftswoman who will demonstrate the detailed process of making handmade lace which has been passed down through generations. 

This private tour brings you in the artistry, color and character of Venice’s most beloved islands, offering a memorable contrast to the city’s historic center.

*Inclusions: 4-hour private experience with a licensed guide, Pick-up from a designated meeting point, Water taxi at disposal*

Your Italian adventure reaches its conclusion today but the Italian cities you visited, all the Italian food you enjoyed and the Italian friends you made will continue to exist in your memory. From Rome’s ancient monuments and Florence’s Renaissance treasures to Venice’s canals and island life, each place has added something special to your memories.

As you look through your photos, hold onto your souvenirs or simply think back on your favorite moments, you may already feel the pull to return. Once you arrive at the airport, check in for your international flight and prepare to head home.

Although this trip is ending, the idea of planning your next Tailored by Locals adventure will be ready to come alive again soon whenever you are.