8-Day Rome & Florence Itinerary – Classic Italy for Culture and Food Lovers

Your itinerary starts in Rome, a city where plenty of historical legends and crucial world events coalesce with contemporary daily life in a unique way. Tradition holds that Romulus and Remus established the city in 753 BC and since that foundational moment, Rome has been the defining center. First, for the Roman Republic and subsequent Empire and later as the heart of the Christian world. Today, it functions as Italy’s exceptionally dynamic capital, full of energy and part of a 2,500 years narrative.

As you walk the streets, you'll observe how emperors, popes, artists and citizens have each contributed to the urban fabric. Rome can initially feel immense and perhaps disorganized, but dedicate some time and you will recognize its surprising human level. If you revisit the same café or square even once, you are very likely to be recognized with a small gesture of welcome.

Some of your most valued recollections will likely be the simple experiences, sitting at an outdoor café in the Campo de’ Fiori, casually exploring a local neighborhood square or pausing by an ancient fountain as church bells resonate. This defines Rome: a compelling synthesis of elegance and functional disorder, profound grandeur and everyday simplicity, where the narratives of the past and the present continuously and visibly overlap.

Today is focused on exploring the artistic and spiritual nucleus of the Catholic global community via a focused small-group tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, with guaranteed access to St. Peter’s Basilica when the schedule permits. For optimal convenience, included vehicle pickup will be provided if your accommodation is centrally located; if you are outside this specific area, your precise meeting location will be clearly communicated well ahead of time.

The Vatican Museums were historically the exclusive private collection of the Popes, and they now collectively house one of the world's most exceptional assemblies of art. With your specialized guide at the forefront, you will navigate through expansive galleries filled with essential ancient Roman sculptures, crucial medieval masterpieces and priceless Renaissance treasures. Rather than simply moving quickly through the halls, the pace allows you to genuinely appreciate significant works and contextualize their role within the extended narrative of Rome and the Church.

Your itinerary naturally leads you into the Sistine Chapel, where both Michelangelo’s celebrated ceiling and his impactful Last Judgment continue to command the attention of every visitor. Standing beneath these monumental paintings, your guide’s informed commentary will assist you in recognizing the subtle details and theological symbolism that are easily overlooked when exploring solo. Assuming access is permitted, you will then transition directly into St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the single most historically and spiritually important churches globally. Inside, beneath the immense soaring architecture and diffused lighting, you will have time to admire masterpieces like Michelangelo’s Pietà and countless other significant works that represent centuries of profound faith and high artistry.

*Inclusions: Approx. 3-hour small-group guided experience (max 15 pax) of an English-speaking guide, Hotel pickup from centrally located hotels (by vehicle), Entrance fees*

**Exclusions: Drop-off at hotels (the tour ends in or near St. Peter’s Square)**

***What to bring: Original passport or valid photo ID, Respectful clothing that covers shoulders and knees (no shorts or short skirts), A light scarf is helpful for covering shoulders inside churches***

****Important Notes: All participants must carry a valid form of identification (e.g. passport) for security checks at the Vatican. Photocopies or digital screenshots may not be accepted**** 

Today is deliberately structured to let you taste Rome as much as you see it. This private, food-focused walking tour will guide you through some of the city’s most attractive squares and fountains while you simultaneously sample flavors that directly convey the narrative of Roman daily life and enduring traditions. It is intentionally a relaxed, sensory approach designed to help you truly grasp how history, essential culture and everyday cooking are inextricably linked here.

Your experience commences in the notably dynamic Campo de’ Fiori, which operates as one of Rome’s most historic and vital fresh produce markets. Colorful displays spill over with seasonal fruits, vegetables, specialized cheeses, cured meats and other distinct local products. As you move through the vendor stands, your guide will expertly introduce you to key seasonal ingredients, detail the local customs of Roman shopping and meal preparation, and provide tastings that truly illustrate these local stories. The mix of vibrant aromas, various spices, coffee, fresh baked goods, instantly constructs a picture of the daily rhythm here.

From the market, you will follow a carefully planned route through the historic core, passing major landmarks such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. While these monuments are spectacular, your guide will also intentionally draw your attention to smaller, easily missed details: fountains, courtyards, neighborhood bakeries and the specific cafés frequented by locals. Along the path, you will pause to taste essential classic Roman street foods. Perhaps the fried rice ball supplì, pizza al taglio, select salumi or something sweet. All specifically chosen to give you an accurate taste of the city’s culinary soul.

By the time this tour concludes, you will have understood how profoundly the act of eating is with Rome’s fundamental history and civic identity.

*Inclusions: Approx. 3-hour private walking experience a state-licensed guide, Hotel pickup from centrally located hotels, Tastings of traditional local foods*

Today is yours to enjoy Rome at your own pace. This is a chance to follow your curiosity, perhaps revisiting a neighborhood you loved or exploring an area you haven’t seen yet. You might step inside a church that caught your eye, wander through the narrow streets of Trastevere or linger over a long lunch at a trattoria recommended by your guide. 

If you’re drawn to ancient history, you could spend time at the Colosseum and Roman Forum. If art is your passion, consider one of the city’s many smaller museums or galleries. And if you simply want to live like a local for a day, there’s plenty of joy in slow walks, good coffee and people-watching in a favorite piazza. 

Whatever you decide to do, make sure you enjoy the most out of it! 

Today you travel toward Florence, widely recognized as the center of the Renaissance. Initially established on the site of an ancient Etruscan settlement, Florence ascended to its peak influence primarily under the influential Medici family during the 15th and 16th centuries. It was during this period that a powerful revival of classical Greek and Roman concepts ignited revolutionary approaches to art, scientific thought and the understanding of the individual's role. These changes reshaped the landscape of Europe! 

Within the bounds of the ancient city walls, you will discover a truly remarkable concentration of seminal art and architecture. Here you can find globally celebrated masterpieces, including Michelangelo’s David, Botticelli’s Birth of Venus and Caravaggio’s Medusa. As you move through the historic core, you will clearly observe how harmony, perfect proportion and aesthetic beauty are fully manifested in the city’s urban design.

Even a casual walk might lead you past the Duomo with its iconic dome, alongside medieval stone towers and across the Arno River via the Ponte Vecchio. Essential institutions like the Uffizi and Accademia, combined with numerous churches and palaces, have more art than is realistically possible to absorb in one visit. Yet, Florence retains a highly walkable atmosphere, sustained by active neighborhood markets, local cafés and artisan workshops that ensure its core traditions thrive in the modern era.

Today you will  find yourself in Florence’s artistic and architectural heritage during a full-day private tour led by a certified local, state-licensed guide. Your experience begins right at your hotel, where you will meet your guide and start your walking exploration of the historic center.

Your primary destination is the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, whose iconic red-tiled dome, engineered by Brunelleschi, remains one of the preeminent engineering feats of the entire Renaissance period. Additionally, you will examine the Baptistery of St. John and Giotto’s elegant Bell Tower, receiving context on how these structures embody both profound religious commitment and fierce civic pride.

From there, you will proceed across the legendary Ponte Vecchio, the city’s oldest extant bridge, which is distinctly lined with the jewelry shops that appear to cantilever right above the river. As you walk Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza della Signoria, you will hear narratives concerning Florence’s political history, its ruling families and the specific artists who were instrumental in forging its identity. Piazza della Signoria, particularly with its outdoor statuary and palazzo, truly functions as an open-air gallery. At the Basilica of Santa Croce, you will have a chance to honor some of Italy’s most influential thinkers and creators, including both Michelangelo and Galileo.

The artistic plan continues at the Accademia Gallery, which is the institutional home of Michelangelo’s David. Encountering this sculpture firsthand frequently proves to be a profound climax of any Italian journey. Your guide will detail its technical creation, its symbolic significance and the insights it provides into the spirit of the Renaissance. The gallery also features works by figures such as Uccello, Ghirlandaio, Botticelli and Andrea del Sarto.

Later, you will visit the Uffizi Gallery, acknowledged globally as one of the most vital art museums in existence. Here, your focus will be toward masterpieces by artists including Cimabue, Botticelli, Raphael and others, with your guide informing you about the historical evolution of painting.

By the close of the day, you will have secured a much deeper appreciation for its critical role in the history of global art and culture.

*Inclusions: 7-hour private experience of a state-licensed guide, Hotel pickup within city limits (on foot), Entrance fees for the Accademia and Uffizi Gallery*

Today’s experience is the classic landscapes and essential flavors of Tuscany via a full-day shared excursion. Upon leaving Florence, your route takes you through characteristic hills full of vineyards, ancient olive groves and traditional stone farmhouses, a scenery that feels lifted straight from a Renaissance masterwork.

The schedule usually starts at an authentic wine estate located near San Gimignano, where you will enjoy a leisurely, traditional Tuscan lunch expertly paired with regional wines. This stop provides an opportunity to slow the pace, savor each course and gain appreciation for the inherent connection between the cultivation of the vines and the product you are tasting.

Subsequently, you will explore San Gimignano itself, which remains one of Italy’s most architecturally iconic medieval hill towns. Recognizable immediately for its cluster of distinctive surviving towers, the town encourages you to freely roam its cobbled streets and intimate squares all while offering beautiful views across the surrounding countryside.

The journey continues through the Chianti region with a stop for a guided wine tasting, allowing you to sample local red varietals and potentially taste olive oils and other regional delicacies. Your hosts here will provide informed context, helping you understand the unique characteristics of Chianti wines and the specific methods utilized in their production.

Finally, you will arrive in Siena, a well-preserved city known for its powerful civic identity and rooted traditions. A specialist local guide will lead you through its main historical spaces, including the famous shell-shaped Piazza del Campo and the stunning cathedral. Inside the Duomo, the intricate inlaid floors and priceless artworks stand as proof to Siena’s artistic and spiritual heritage.

*Inclusions: 10.5-hour shared experience (max 40 pax) of an English-speaking guide, Wine tasting, Sampling of wines, extra-virgin olive oil, and regional products*

Your time in Italy comes to an end today and the moments you’ve collected will stay with you for quite a long time. The ancient streets of Rome, the Renaissance beauty of Florence, the meals shared and conversations overheard. All of these now form part of your own story! We are sure as you will find yourself smiling as you scroll through photos or specific memories come to your mind. 

Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll check in for your international flight and prepare for your journey home. There is always a little sadness when a wonderful trip ends, but also a sense of gratitude for everything you’ve experienced. Italy has a special talent for leaving a lasting impression and many travelers start dreaming of their return before they’ve even left. 

For now, you carry a bit of la dolce vita with you, the slower pace over a good meal, the appreciation for beauty, the joy of exploring on foot. Whenever you’re ready for your next adventure, Italy will be here, ready to welcome you back.