Luggage Packed. Secrets Waiting. Let the Journey Begin. A Perfectly-balanced, Slow Travel Adventure through Italy Small Group Touring – 6 to 12 Guests (Max 16)
Italy's Great Cities: 10-Day Effortless & Unforgettable.
Discover the essential spirit of Italy through a beautifully streamlined itinerary that captures the country’s most iconic sites and flavors. Thoughtfully crafted for travelers seeking maximum impact in less time, this 11-day journey combines expertly guided experiences, boutique stays, and smooth, stress-free transitions between cities. It’s Italy distilled — vibrant, authentic, and designed to let you fully enjoy each moment.
★ Get ready for something special each step of the way through Italy.
Chat with a Specialist.
Chat to discuss your trip with a Now Journey Trip Planner:
We're different from the mainstream tour operators: our groups are intentionally very small, we frequent off-the-track restaurants and experiences, and our Tour Captains will not up-sell to you while you're on your world-class vacation.
★ Your Italian Story begins here. Step into the Journey, one Chapter at a time.
Chapter 1: Venice
Gondolas glide as Venice whispers its Secrets
Chapter 2: Florence
David's city, Florence of the Renaissance
Chapter 3: Under the Tuscan Sun
Vine-covered hills in the heart of Tuscany
Chapter 4: Rome
A Thousand Roads Lead Always to Rome
Meet: The Original Italy's Great Cities Tour
★ Leave the details to us – We handle everything: Travel, simplified.
All-inclusive special-access sightseeing with admissions included — no hidden fees.
Expert local guides & dedicated Tour Captain for a seamless, insider-led experience.
Balanced itinerary with immersive touring and ample leisure time.
Heart-of-city boutique hotels in Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Rome and Sorrento.
Skip-the-long-line access at major sites — no waiting in long lines, no flags, no big buses.
Exclusive Tuscan Wine Experience & paired luncheon in a stunning vineyard setting.
Signature moments — rooftop prosecco toasts, hidden gems, and even complimentary laundry*.
No annoying Upsell while on Tour — just a beautifully curated, immersive journey.
Our approach: No rush, no long days. Just the perfect vibe: Venice Florence Tuscany and Rome: Italy isn’t meant to be rushed — So We Designed a Journey That Isn't.
★ 'We all were made to feel special, almost like royalty, with skip-the-line access, personal service by fabulous chefs, and seamless check-ins at our gorgeous hotels.'
10-Days: Elegance. Perfect-pace.
Just like a great novel, the Italy's Great Cities Tour begins in Venice on San Marco island. Here’s how your luxury, slow-paced small-group tour unfolds. And just li ke the perfect finale to a great story, the Enchanted Amalfi Coast Adventure brings your Italian journey to a breathtaking close.
★ What's included in Now Journey's Italy's Great Cities Tour:
Friendly, entertaining Tour Captain beginning to end.
Your dedicated Tour Captain isn’t just a guide; they’re like a friend who knows all the local secrets and is there to make every moment special from the first “Ciao” to the farewell toast.
True Small Group: Enjoy a more personal, immersive experience with 6 to 12 guests (Max 16).
Privately Guided Tours with Fast-Track, Skip-the-Long-Lines Access to iconic sites.
Our Local Guides are amazing: Easy-to-understand, English-speaking and friendly.
Signature Discovery Walks with the Tour Captain to get to know each city.
Airport Arrival Transfer: Included Meet & Greet from Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE).
Signature Welcome: Rooftop reception in Venice with prosecco toast.
Luggage Portaged: Handling through your Journey.
Big one for us: No surprise up-sells.
Comfort All the Way: Premium Fast Train and Micro-Concept transport. No buses.
Laundry Service: Complimentary service* mid-way through your Journey up to €25/person.
Hand-Picked, Heart of City Now Journey Hotels: 4+ to 5-star properties.
Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or taxes. Gratuities included, except for the Tour Captain.
City Taxes Included — no surprise hotel charges.
UNIQUE IN THE INDUSTRY DINING with Unlimited Premium Beverages:
— 15 Meals: 9 Breakfasts: Enjoy a full hot buffet breakfast, including coffee, espresso, or table service, 5 Now Journey Style Dining Dinners, 1 Luncheon with Wine Tasting paired with delicious Morsels.
Italy’s Great Cities Tour — Quick Answers
• What’s included in the tour?
Boutique hotels, expert guides, Tour Captain, breakfast, industry-leading select dinners, skip-the-line sightseeing & unique experiences like a gondola ride, rooftop surprises and our Tuscan vineyard wine-tasting lunch.
• How many guests on the tour?
Small groups of 8–12 travelers (Max 16).
• Best time to go to Italy?
Spring (Apr–Jun) and fall (Sep–Oct) for great weather, lighter crowds, and seasonal charm.
Frances Mayes in "Under the Tuscan Sun" once said that "...most trips have an underlying quest. We're looking for something. What? Fun, escape, adventure--but then what?"
Everyone travels for different reasons, but my question for you would be what are you looking for?
Full Itinerary 10-Days: Venice to Rome.
One of Now Journey's most popular small group adventures begins upon arrival at Venice Marco Polo International Airport (VCE Airport Code) and finalés in Rome (FCO Airport code).
Chapter 1: Venice
La Serenissima: The Most Serene —
2 Days, 2 Nights
DAY 1: WELCOME TO BEAUTIFUL VENICE
Now Journey's approach to touring Italy is unique: we combine local expert Italian Guides with our Now Journey Tour Captains serving as your host for the perfect balance of activity and leisure time so you can truly soak up all that is Italy.
Upon arrival we are transported via private water taxi to our hotel on San Marco along with your fellow travelers and your Journey Tour Captain. Check-in, drop carry-ons off (remember, your luggage is portaged and you manage your carry-ons), and then relax until our Discovery Walk.
Discovery Walk
Our Discovery Walk is a hallmark of the Now Journey style of traveling when exploring new destinations — a brief orientation walk with your Now Journey Tour Captain (not to be confused with our immersive Sightseeing Tour that occurs the next day with our licensed expert Italian Guide). In Venice we will take in the beautiful sights of Piazza San Marco, the "Campanile" or clock tower, the Grand Canal and more.
Afterward, enjoy some time at leisure to soak up Venice before meeting tonight for a special 'Welcome to Venice' evening from one of our exclusive perspectives.
Venice, Italy, is a city that captivates with its unparalleled beauty and mystique. Floating gracefully on a network of canals, the cityscape unfolds like a mesmerizing tapestry, adorned with elegant bridges, ornate palaces, and centuries-old buildings that seem to rise from the water. As the sun sets, Venice's enchanting labyrinth of narrow alleys and historic squares takes on an ethereal quality, casting shadows that whisper tales of a bygone era, leaving visitors spellbound by the timeless allure and enigmatic charm of this unique aquatic city
Welcome to Venice Dinner
We then make our way to our favorite restaurant in Venice where we will be delighted with cuisine from several regions throughout Italy including the Veneto, Lazio and Campania (all paired with delicious wines and premium beverages - and all included with Now Journey).
Where We Stay in Venice, 2 Nights with breakfast
Now Journey Hotels Collection — Hotel Saturnia & International, Hotel Monaco & Grand Canal or Similar
Enjoy hand-selected 4-Star and 5-Star hotels—upgraded rooms at 4-Star properties and refined entry-level rooms at 5-Star stays — inquire with your Trip Specialist if you'd like to upgrade to a larger room and/or upper category room with a specific view (where available).
Hotel room assignments are made at around 60 days prior to the adventure. A comparable hotel will be utilized should our space be sold out by the time you book — we will advise you of your final hotels.
Venice's Secrets & Treasures is Now Journey's exclusive tour through this historic port city. Explore its hidden corners while uncovering Venice's colorful past, from Casanova to Napoleon.
Today's Adventure: Venice Secets & Treasures
With expert commentary from our local guide, explore the stunning St. Mark's Basilica before stepping back in time at the Doge's Palace, the Old Prison, and the iconic Bridge of Sighs — including tales of Casanova.
Special sightseeing today includes:
The Doge's Palace: Skip-the-Long-Line Entrance to the Doge's Palace (meaning Duke or Governor's Palace), the seat of the Republic of Venice's historic power.
Venice's Old Prison: The Prisons of Venice: Found inside the Doge's Palace, are the older and new prisons.
Bridge of Sighs: The bridge made famous for its window and last view of blue sky and freedom as prisoners are marched to their sentence.
Basilica San Marco: Enjoy the beautiful mosaics and how they reflect and dance in the light. Your Tour Captain "paints the picture" of the history and opulence that is the Basilica San Marco prior to entering. Once inside, enjoy 'silence' as you observe its beauty encased in Byzantine architecture.
Piazza San Marco: and our "Secret Treasures of Venice:"
Walking Delights: Learn about the Clock Tower (Campanile), Caffé Florian, Napoleon and the Winged Lion
Special Adventure: Venetian Gondola Experience
Later today, just before sunset enjoy our included Gondola ride through the canals of Venice with our professional musicians to make the ambiance perfect. On occasion inclement weather will prevent the gondola ride. In this scenario an alternate activity will be substituted later in the tour.
Enjoy the balance of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.
May We Suggest? • We think simply soaking up Venice this afternoon is a great plan, but if you'd like to fill it up a bit more, consider:
— Isle of Murano Glass Blowing Demonstration: A free visit can be arranged, just ask your Now Journey specialist.
Your Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner after the Gondola ride, and they can also help you with dining reservations if you choose to explore lovely Venice on your own.
Today's Adventure: To Florence
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast before transferring by boat to Venezia Santa Lucia Train Station, where you'll enjoy a fast-train journey to Florence.
Discovery Walk: Florence
On our Discovery Walk, explore the heart of historic Florence, passing major landmarks like Giotto's Campanile, the Baptistery, and the Duomo. Visit Orsanmichele and Via Santa Margherita Church, once home to prominent Florentine families. Conclude at the Ponte Vecchio, the city's only bridge to survive WWII. Enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure until our welcome dinner tonight.
Welcome to Florence Dinner: Tuscany's Regional Specialties
Your Tour Captain hosts an amazing welcome dinner in Florence with authentic Tuscan cuisine served by Fiorentini who love what they do. Florence welcomes us with a variety of regional culinary tastes, premium beverages, and ample portions of fine local wines from Toscana and Chianti.
Where We Stay in the Heart of Florence, 2 Nights with breakfast
Now Journey Hotels Collection — Grand Hotel Cavour, Hotel Bernini Palace or Similar
Enjoy hand-selected 4-Star and 5-Star hotels—upgraded rooms at 4-Star properties and refined entry-level rooms at 5-Star stays — inquire with your Trip Specialist if you'd like to upgrade to a larger room and/or upper category room with a specific view (where available).
Hotel room assignments are made at around 60 days prior to the adventure. A comparable hotel will be utilized should our space be sold out by the time you book — we will advise you of your final hotels.
Now Journey's Florence Secrets & Treasures tour boasts a variety of fine sights to see including Santa Maria del Fiore, the Baptistery's Bronze "Gate of
Paradise," Giotto's Bell Tower, Signoria Square, and the Galleria dell'Accademia, where Michelangelo's David is housed.
Today's Adventure: Florence Secrets & Treasures
Our Secrets & Treasures Walking Tour of historic Florence features: We will take our time walking through the Piazza della Repubblica, the famous Piazza Signoria with her old palace, Palazzo Vecchio, and make our way through the portico of the Uffizi complex. We will take our time walking through the Piazza della Repubblica, the famous Piazza Signoria with her old palace, Palazzo Vecchio, and make our way through the portico of the Uffizi complex.
Special sightseeing today includes:
Galleria dell’Accademia: Skip the long lines to witness Michelangelo’s David in Europe’s first art school.
Explore Florence’s historic center, a World Heritage site, including the Baptistery, Campanile, and the Duomo with Brunelleschi’s iconic dome. Admire the Gates of Paradise, named by Michelangelo, as our guide shares insights on Ghiberti’s masterpiece.
Stroll through Piazza della Repubblica and Piazza della Signoria, soaking in Florence’s timeless charm.
Following our Secrets & Treasures adventure the balance of the day is at your leisure.
May we suggest some optional activities to fill up your afternoon?
Exploring More of Florence
May We Suggest? • We think simply soaking up Florence this afternoon is a great plan, but if you'd like to fill it up a bit more, consider:
— Interested in checking out the leather market?
—
What about a climb of the Duomo? We can arrange visits, admissions and more for you in advance.
—
Consider a visit to the Basilica di Santa Croce (Basilica of the Holy Cross) is the principal Franciscan church in Florence and a minor Basilica of the Catholic Church. Many illustrious Italians are buried there including Michelangelo, Galileo, Rossini, Marconi, Machiavelli. Thus it is known as the Temple of the Italian Glories.
Optional Guided Experiences for your afternoon: We usually schedule most of these at around 3PM if possible.
• Uffizi Gallery: Private Tour with Guide: $339 per person (3 Hours).
Guided our licensed guide with a PHD in Art History, as well as a published art books author, you will discover the unique artistic and cultural richness as the cradle of the Renaissance. The Uffizi Gallery is one of the most incredible art collections in the world of Italian and European Paintings. During the tour the guide will tell you the incredible stories of such masterpieces including those made by Giotto, Piero della Francesca, Filippo Lippi, Botticelli, Michelangelo, Raphael, Titian, Leonardo da Vinci and Caravaggio.
• Uffizi Gallery: Small Group Guided Tour: $179 per person.
Enjoy the Gallery in a small group: The art history expert will guide you through the Uffizi Gallery and to the masterpieces contained within. During your tour, the guide will accompany you from hall to hall, taking you on a journey into art and its history as he or she illustrates the most beautiful works of art in the museum. Not only will you learn about the importance of each painting, but also the context in the times when they were made.
• Uffizi Gallery: Admission Ticket Only: $49 per person. Enjoy an admission ticket to the Gallery.
• Climb the Duomo Ticket: $59 per person. Enjoy a climb to the top of the cupola by climbing its 463 steps to get an extraordinary view of Florence.
• A private tour of the Pitti Palace in Florence Ticket: $339 per person (2 hours, 2 guest minimum for this privately guided tour.
Italy, provides a personalized journey through this Renaissance marvel, led by an expert guide. Beginning with an introduction to the palace's rich history and Medici legacy, visitors delve into its opulent interior, admiring frescoes, stuccowork, and masterpieces by artists like Raphael and Caravaggio. The tour navigates grand halls, sumptuous apartments, and private chambers, culminating in exploration of the world-class art collections housed within. Following this, a leisurely stroll through the Boboli Gardens offers panoramic vistas and insights into Renaissance landscape architecture. With flexibility for customization, the experience caters to individual interests, ensuring an enriching encounter with Florence's cultural heritage amidst the palace's splendor.
• Admission only to Pitti Palace and/or Gardens.
Option 1: Pitti Palace only (not including gardens) - admission only (no guide): $32 per person
Option 2: Pitti Palace Gardens (Boboli Gardens) only (not including Palace) - admission only (no guide): $23 per person
Option 3: Pitti Palace & Boboli gardens combo; admission only (no guide): $45 per person
Your Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore Florence at leisure.
Our journey begins in San Gimignano, famed for its medieval skyline of 13 towering landmarks. Perched above the Elsa Valley, this hilltop town flourished along the Via Francigena, a key medieval trade and pilgrimage route.
Enjoy free time to explore its historic streets and charming shops before toasting our arrival in Tuscany with a glass of Vernaccia, San Gimignano’s signature white wine.
★ Journey Exclusive: Winery Experience
Experience the beauty of a Tuscan winery estate, where we tour the cellars and production facilities before indulging in a wine tasting paired with a delicious farm-to-table lunch. Savor pecorino, bruschetta, and local specialties, perfectly matched with Chianti and Super Tuscan wines. Buon Appetito!
Special Sightseeing today Includes:
San Gimignano: Sightseeing and free time in the Tuscan hill town known for its towers.
Exclusive Winery: Admission, Tour and Wine Tasting at our Estate located in the heart of Tuscany. Beautiful Property with stunning views, delicious varieties paired with sumptuous delicacies. You won't want to leave.
Tuscany's Wine Road: Winding through the Tuscan hills, the wine road offers remarkable beauty, characterized by vineyards, wine cellars, distant rolling landscapes, and villages up in the hills.
On to Cortona
This afternoon, we take a scenic drive to the charming hill town of Cortona, nestled in the heart of Tuscany. Upon arrival at our villa hotel, your Tour Captain handles check-in, giving you time to relax before gathering for a short walk to our Apericena experience — a perfect start to our stay.
Discovery Walk: Cortona
Stroll through Cortona’s historic heart, uncovering its Etruscan, Roman, and Hollywood ties as your Tour Captain welcomes you to Tuscany. Walk along Via Nazionale to Piazza Garibaldi and Piazza della Repubblica, where we delve into the legendary Battle of Trasimeno. Then, relax and savor a
Tuscan evening under the warm afternoon sun.
Now Journey Exclusive: Special Apericena Dinner in Cortona
Tonight you will join your Tour Captain for a Now Journey exclusive welcome "aperitivo" called Apericena by the modern Italians.
It's the perfect complement for your palate after a day of great cuisine and wine. Our dinner aperitivo provides a just-right, light meal finale to our beautiful day in the Tuscan countryside and in the magical ambiance of this delightful hill town. Afterwards, enjoy the balance of the evening at your leisure.
Where We Stay in Cortona, 2 Nights with breakfast
Now Journey Hotels Collection — Villa Marsili, Hotel San Michele, Monastero di Cortona Hotel & Spa or Similar
Enjoy hand-selected 4-Star and 5-Star hotels—upgraded rooms at 4-Star properties and refined entry-level rooms at 5-Star stays — inquire with your Trip Specialist if you'd like to upgrade to a larger room and/or upper category room with a specific view (where available).
Hotel room assignments are made at around 60 days prior to the adventure. A comparable hotel will be utilized should our space be sold out by the time you book — we will advise you of your final hotels.
Enjoy a full free day at your leisure in beautiful Cortona.
Many options are available from Cooking Classes to a day trip to Siena and more. Today, enjoy Tuscany at your leisure - perhaps it's a thorough exploration of delightful Cortona, a cooking class, horse-back riding, Vespa rental and much more.
May we suggest some optional activites for your day (and night) in Cortona:
Cortona to Explore
Options for Today Might we suggest:
• Cooking Class from Cortona —
Just outside of Cortona, in the company of an expert chef, participants learn how to make several courses including a dessert. It is a different experience where the participants learn to prepare a multiple-course meal and then partake in the sampling of the prepared dishes while enjoying the olive oils and wines of the region! -Duration 3-5 hours. $280 per person.
• Horseback Riding Adventure
— Commences at 9:30/10:00am or 2:00/3:00pm. $99 per person for first 2 hours, $37 per hour for each additional hour. Front desk of hotel will arrange round-trip taxi for you at guest expense. Options available for beginner or experienced riders.
• Tour of Siena — Departs around 9:30am. $465 per person. The tour includes round-trip transfer from Cortona to Siena with a walking tour of Siena in the morning and some free time in the afternoon. Today's tour will walk you through the old Ghetto, the Tower District (Contrada della Torre), and through little alleys, and on to the Basilica dei Servi, from which point you can enjoy an amazing view of the old town. We will take in Orto dei Pecci; a pleasant and easily accessible garden, located just behind the main square: The serenity and tranquility of this green oasis, together with the view of the incredible Torre del Mangia will mesmerize you.
• Morning Tour of Siena with Cooking Class in Afternoon — Departs around 9:30am. $599 per person. Enjoy the morning tour (see description above) and then a special cooking class in the afternoon. Our driver then whisks you to a nearby villa where you will enjoy a tour of the vines, immersion in all things Wine, Balsamic, and Olive Oil followed by a cooking lesson. And, yes, you then enjoy the fruits of your labor. Our chef is capable and entertaining as you enjoy learning more about Tuscan cooking. We then return to the hotel in Cortona for a free evening.
• Cortona and the Franciscan Monastery Le Celle
— $190 per person. A classic private walking tour of Cortona comprises the Garibaldi Square with its magnificent panoramic view over the Valdichiana, the Church of St. Dominic built for the Dominicans with its medieval architecture and paintings by Luca Signorelli e Lorenzo di Niccolò, via Nazionale, the Republic Square with the Town Hall, the Church of St. Francis with its collection of objects owned to St. Francis of Assisi, Piazza Signorelli with Palazzo Casali and the Duomo. Then the tour continues by car outside the city walls of Cortona to the Franciscan Monastery of Le Celle, immersed in a forest and a place of an extraordinary beauty, calm and Franciscan spirituality.
• Cortona Ancient Walls, Fortresses, Convents and Churches
— $190 per person.
This is a walking tour on steep slopes in the oldest part of Cortona leading up to the very top of the hill. For this reason is suitable for guests who enjoy walking (hiking) on slopes. The prize at the end is a fantastic view of Cortona and the valley below and the beauty of this less frequented and untouched part of the town. Above the center, half-way up to the hill of Cortona, are the Church San Francesco and beyond a cypress-lined courtyard, is the 15th century Chiesa di San Niccolò. The 15th-century church has a small porch with slender columns and the interior houses paintings by Luca Signorelli: the two-sided panel-painting, Descent from the Cross and Madonna Enthroned, and a fresco, Madonna with Saints. Passing by the little church San Cristoforo and Porta Montanina we will stop on the top to visit the Sanctuary of Santa Margherita, the town's patron saint. Finally walking down through the old part of town through the narrow alleyways of the quarter called Poggio San Marco you will admire also the beautiful 12 Via Crucis Stations with mosaics by the Futurist artist Gino Severin, a native of Cortona.
• Assisi Privately Guided Tour with round-trip transportation — $279 per person.
Enjoy this special visit to the hometown of Saint Francis, peacefully set on the slopes of the Subasio Mountain. The Basilica of Saint Francis is one of Europe's most important church buildings and undoubtedly the cultural highlight of the entire region. Our guide will show you the most important monuments, the Roman remains, the charming intact medieval town, stunning views of the landscape and the town's hidden treasures. During this guided tour you will see the Basilica of St. Francis*, Piazza del Comune (central square), Minerva temple and other sites.
About Cortona
Cortona is a small but fascinating hill town in the province of Arezzo, Tuscany. It is situated on a commanding hill that overlooks Lake Trasimeno, known for the infamous rout of the Romans by Hannibal and the Carthaginians. Its cyclopean walls, still preserved in great part, are said to be 3000 years old. It was one of the twelve cities of Etruria.
Soak in the morning: enjoy a walk through the vineyards, or a hike up to the castle or a leisurely stroll through the piazza and streets.
Your Journey Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or choose to enjoy your last night in Cortona at your leisure.
Heading south, we approach Rome, a living museum of history and grandeur. Tuscany’s rolling hills fade into Lazio’s storied landscapes, each mile drawing us closer to a city where antiquity and modernity intertwine effortlessly.
There Once was a Dream that Was Rome.
Today, we enter Rome, where history stands still. As the city's energy rises around us, a skyline of domes, ruins, and ancient landmarks unfolds. Soon, we’ll walk among the remnants of an empire—cobblestones, columns, and arches whispering stories of emperors and philosophers. Welcome to the Eternal City.
Discovery Walk: Rome
We arrive at our hotels and check in. The locations of our hotels in Rome are within a minute or so walk of the incredible Pantheon. Conitnue with the Now Journey Tour Captain for a walk through the very heart of Old Rome.
We begin our exploration of Rome beginning with an elephant and continue to immerse ourselves in over 2000 years of history of the 'Empire. We enter the amazing Pantheon and learn of its interesting history and continue our walk to soak up Piazza Navona, once a site where mock naval battles were held. We continue with our Discovery Walk as we pass through Campo de Fiore (field of flowers) - do you know the name of the figure whose likeness is crafted in the statue in this amazing campo? We walk by Largo di Torre Argentina and learn of Julius Caesar's fate. We will also see a village of modern Roman felines.
Welcome to Rome Dinner: The Cuisine of Lazio Kicks Off the Dining Experience
Tonight you will join your Journey Tour Captain for a special welcome to Rome dinner complete with premium beverages and wine from the region of Lazio, Campania and Toscana.
Where We Stay in Rome, 3 Nights with breakfast
Now Journey Hotels Collection — Palazzo Navona, Antico Albergo del Sole al Pantheon, Iconic Pantheon Rome Hotel, L'Orologio or Similar
Enjoy hand-selected 4-Star and 5-Star hotels—upgraded rooms at 4-Star properties and refined entry-level rooms at 5-Star stays — inquire with your Trip Specialist if you'd like to upgrade to a larger room and/or upper category room with a specific view (where available).
Hotel room assignments are made at around 60 days prior to the adventure. A comparable hotel will be utilized should our space be sold out by the time you book — we will advise you of your final hotels.
With Privileged Entry, explore the Vatican Museums, marvel at the Sistine Chapel, and stand in awe of St. Peter’s Basilica and Square. As we exit into St. Peter’s Square, spot the Swiss Guard in their colorful uniforms. When ready, Now Journey transports await to return us to our hotels.
Special Sightseeing Includes:
St. Peter's Basilica and Square: Admission and Guided Tour to St. Peter's Basilica. Enjoy Skip-the-Long-Line special access with Priviledged Access Admission Included.
Sistine Chapel: Admission and Guided Tour of the Sistine Chapel: You will find inside the chapel The Last Judgment painting by Michelangelo, which he painted during the years 1535 to 1541. The work, designed on a grand scale, spans the entire wall behind the Sistine Chapel altar.
Vatican Museums: Admission and Guided Tour of the Vatican City Museums: The Museums boast some of the most impressive tapestries and other works of art and sculpture found in the world.
Enjoy the balance of the afternoon and evening at your leisure.
Note for 2025 Departures: The Vatican’s Jubilee celebration may bring occasional, last-minute closures beyond Now Journey’s control. If access is affected, we’ll adjust our itinerary to ensure a seamless experience. For any missed visits or experiences, we will provide documentation so you may submit the canceled experience to your Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance provider. Rest assured, your time in Rome will still be unforgettable.
Your Tour Captain will invite you to an optional dinner tonight or you can explore Rome at your leisure.
This afternoon may we suggest an optional activity:
May We Suggest? • We think simply soaking up Rome this afternoon is a great plan, but if you'd like to fill it up a bit more, consider:
Consider experiencing the Baths of Caracalla while in Rome. Includes privately guided tour, admissions and roundtrip taxi transfer from hotel. Also includes standard gratuities. $250 per person, minimum 2 guests
DAY 9: Rome: Eternal city, history's living canvas
Today's Adventure: Imperial Rome
Today, we set out on a captivating stroll through Rome, where ancient ruins and modern life blend seamlessly. As we wander, witness history woven into the city's vibrant present, revealing a timeless narrative that still shapes Roman life today.
We make our way to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, the town center of the Roman Empire, for our special access, in-depth touring experience, complete with admissions.
Special Sightseeing Includes:
Colosseo: Flavian's amphitheater known popularly as the Colosseum. Admission and Guided Tour of the Colosseum: Heart of The Empire. Enjoy Skip-the-Long-Line entrance.
Foro Romano: Admission and Guided Tour of the Roman Forum ~ We walk through the archaeological dig for unique perspectives of the Old Town Center of Rome, Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill, Caesar's Palace, Curia or the Senate House, Temple of the Vestal Virgins, and the Triumphal Arches.
Capitoline Hill: We ascend this amazingly sculptured and architecturally inspirational locale.
Walking Delights: Views of Trajan's Market, Palatine Hill, Caesar's Palace, Curia known as the Senate Building, the Vittorio Emanuele II National Monument, the Jewish Ghetto, and other historic landmarks.
One of the highlights of the tour for me was visiting the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. It was surreal to walk the same streets as the ancient Romans and be surrounded by so much history. The Colosseum was especially fascinating—not just seeing its scale in person, but also learning how it functioned and the types of events that took place there. Our guide Cynthia was excellent at bringing it all to life—her storytelling, energy, and use of photos and images made the experience even more engaging and memorable. — Melissa B.
Now Journey Exclusive: A Very Special Evening
Tonight join your Tour Captain for our included 'Farewell to Rome' dinner at a very exclusive location.
Our days have been filled with new sights, tastes and discoveries - tonight enjoy reflecting on the incredible journey we've had together. It has been a Journey of Adventure and Discovery, along with making new friends!
Tomorrow we will say, 'Arrivederci Roma!' but tonight we sing and make melody in the very heart of Rome.
Departure Transfer optional and not included. Transfer from the Rome hotel to the Rome FCO airport $108 per person. (2 guest minimum. Price is per person, $216 for solo traveler.)
Our Now Journey Hotels Collection features 4 to 5-Star properties including entry-level room categories in 5-Star, and one category above entry-level in 4-Star. Elevate your stay with upgraded rooms - inquire.
Solo Supplement: Enjoy a double occupancy room all to yourself for $2990.
VENICE: 2 NIGHTS - AH! VENICE!
FLORENCE: 2 NIGHTS - BIRTHPLACE OF THE RENAISSANCE
CORTONA: 2 NIGHTS - UNDER THE TUSCAN SUN
ROME: 3 NIGHTS - WHERE ALL ROADS LEAD
EXTEND TO SORRENTO: 2 NIGHTS - THE JET SETTER'S PARADISE
10-Day Departures: Best Times of the Year
We've curated the best times of the year to visit Italy's Great Cities.
Italy in the Spring This is one of the best times to be in Italy: No crowds, moderate temps averaging in the 60s, and some showers to bring May flowers! Seasonal air conditioning is limited due to government regulations.
May: Near Perfect It's difficult to beat Italy in May. Early May can see some showers, but mid to late May is the time for moderate crowds, great temps in the 70s, sunshine and La Dolce Vita!
June: Graduate to More Perfection The weather is near perfect in June, that's why the volume of travelers is high. It's a great time to celebrate our graduate as well!
September: Great Harvest September is still considered high season these days and for good reason: The harvest in Tuscany and other areas is in swing and the weather is so very special. Highs in the 70s in mid to late September.
Italy in the Spring This is one of the best times to be in Italy: No crowds, moderate temps averaging in the 60s, and some showers to bring May flowers! Seasonal air conditioning is limited due to government regulations.
May: Near Perfect It's difficult to beat Italy in May. Early May can see some showers, but mid to late May is the time for moderate crowds, great temps in the 70s, sunshine and La Dolce Vita!
June: Graduate to More Perfection The weather is near perfect in June, that's why the volume of travelers is high. It's a great time to celebrate our graduate as well!
September: Great Harvest September is still considered high season these days and for good reason: The harvest in Tuscany and other areas is in swing and the weather is so very special. Highs in the 70s in mid to late September.
10-Day Italy Tour: Curated Comfort & Style.
Welcome to Venice Dinner
Where We Stay in Venice, 2 Nights with breakfast
Today's Adventure: Venice Secrets & Treasures
Special Adventure: Venetian Gondola Experience
