Essential Italy

Intrepid Travel · 10 days

4.4

10 Reviews

View Map

Duration

10 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Eat your weight in pasta, spend afternoons lazing in the sun, explore the best local hotspots and see one of the Seven Wonders of the World on this 10-day adventure through Italy’s essentials.

Highlights

Hike or train between the colourful towns of Cinque Terre – walk one of the trails with your leader, alongside gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea, then explore at your own pace, maybe hanging out at one of the many scenic beaches or hiking through the hills.
Sip an aperitivo at sunset in Piazzale Michelangelo, overlooking Florence as night falls – after a full free day to explore the art and culture (and wine) of this amazing city, this might just be your new favourite place!
Recite Shakespeare as you gaze up at Juliet’s balcony in Verona, then take a half day trip to Pisa to see the famous leaning tower – this trip will tick all the iconic sights off your list.
Eat your way through Italy, stopping in at some of the country’s finest food destinations. Whether it’s a real spaghetti carbonara in Rome, a traditional pesto-making demonstration in Cinque Terre or wine windows in Florence, your tastebuds are front and center.
Soak up Italian history in some of Italy’s most storied cities. Explore ancient Roman architecture of the Colosseum or wander through 16th century strongholds – on this trip, there’s a little something for the history buff in all of us.

Trip Details

Duration

10 days

Transportation

Train

Guide Language

English

Starts

Venice, Italy

Finishes

Rome, Italy

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

18 - 39 Year Olds Only

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Venice

Ciao! Welcome to Venice. Your Italian adventure starts in this city on the sea – famous for its winding canals, almost 400 bridges and gondoliers punting their way through the narrow waterways. Meet up with your group at a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe wander the labyrinth of streets and passages from your accommodation – you'll be staying right in the heart of Venice, meaning exploring from your base couldn't be easier! Find the Bridge of Sighs for a pic, window shop by the Ponte di Rialto and browse the famous flooding bookshop Libreria Acqua Alta (the self-proclaimed ‘most beautiful bookshop in the world’). Or, you can jump in a gondola and be swept away by the romance of it all. Tonight, why not get the group together for dinner at Orient Experience – this restaurant provides employment, support and advocacy to Venice’s migrant and refugee community with a menu inspired by the journeys they took to get to Europe.

Optional Activities:

Venice - Glass Museum Murano (11 EUR)
Venice - Ca' Rezzonico Museum of Eighteenth Century Art (11 EUR)
Ca’ D’Oro - Galería Franchetti (15 EUR)
Venice - Gondola Ride (113 EUR)
Venice - Scuola Grande di San Rocco (14 EUR)
Peggy - Guggenheim Collection (17 EUR)
Venice - Doge's Palace & Bridge of Sighs (30 EUR)
Venice - Accademia Gallery (16 EUR)
Venice - St Mark's Basilica Treasury (20 EUR)
Venice - St Mark's Campanile (15 EUR)
Venice - St Mark's Basilica (10 EUR)
Venice - Museum & St Mark's Basilica (20 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Verona

Say farewell to Venice this morning as you leave the canals behind and make your way to Verona – the city that played backdrop to the most famous love story ever told. An orientation walk with your leader will take you around the city and into the courtyard where you can gaze up at Juliet’s balcony (keep an eye out for Romeo lurking around the place). You’ll also go past Arena di Verona – a Roman amphitheatre that still plays host to live performances. Built in AD30 the theatre is one of the best-preserved ancient structures of its kind and is even older than the Colosseum! See if you can find some Sfogliatine di Villafranca (a much-loved crumbly puff pastry dessert invented in Verona). After an afternoon of exploring, jump back on the train and head to Lake Garda. Tonight, find a lakeside restaurant for dinner with your new travel buddies.

Included Activities:

Verona - Orientation walk & Juliet's Balcony
Peschiera del Garda – Orientation walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Peschiera del Garda

Wake up today in the lakeside region of Lake Garda. On the banks of the largest lake in Italy, you’ll have free time to explore at your leisure. As one of the most beautiful small towns on the lake, Peschiera del Garda packs a punch, with plenty to see. Wander along the canals and rivers and make your way down to the lakefront where you can take a dip in the turquoise waters or grab some lunch at one of the many restaurants. At the UNESCO World Heritage Site Peschiera del Garda fortress, you can learn how the Republic of Venice defended itself between the 16th and 17th centuries. Tonight, why not grab your group and watch the sunset over the water while sipping on an Aperol spritz or a negroni (or two!).

Optional Activities:

Peschiera del Garda – Gardaland Park (50 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Parma

Leaving the banks of Lake Garda this morning, you’ll make your way to the beautiful city of Parma. As a food lovers paradise, get ready to sample all the traditional delicacies Parma has on offer. When you arrive, your leader will take you around the city on an orientation walk, before leaving you to explore at your own pace. Wander the colourful streets of this gem in the heart of northern Italy, famously the birthplace of Prosciutto di Parma and Parmigiano Reggiano. Once you’ve eaten all the cured hams and aged cheeses you can handle (although can you ever really get enough?), maybe check out some incredible art history and the intricately frescoed ceilings in the Duomo di Parma, or head about an hour out and visit the largest labyrinth in the world – Labirinto di Franco Maria Ricci.

Included Activities:

Parma – Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: La Spezia

Today, you’ll head to La Spezia, the gateway to Cinque Terre, nestled in the hills of northern Italy and on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Today is the perfect opportunity to enjoy a day at the beach, soak up some sun and eat all the seafood you can stomach. You can also jump on the bus and take a day trip out to the unofficial ‘sixth town’ of Cinque Terre, Portovenere. On the tip of a peninsula, this small finishing town is surrounded by ocean. Full of history, maybe walk out to the 12th century Doira Castle or find literary inspiration at the Grotta di Lord Byron – a popular swimming cove that inspired the author it’s named after. Today is all about enjoying the Mediterranean coast, so make it your own! Don’t forget to check in with your leader to find the best places that only the locals know.

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Cinque Terre

Welcome to Cinque Terre! One of the most beautiful coastal stretches in Italy. Historically, long walking trails were the only way to travel between the villages, which means that other than the incredible views, you’ll also have some hiking opportunities. Today, your leader will take you on a hike through some of these tracks, with the Mediterranean Sea in sight the whole time. Walking past terraced farms and through coastal forests, this is the perfect way to discover this part of Italy. After your hike, the rest of the day is yours. Maybe make your way down to a beach club and soak in the sun, or join a traditional pesto making demonstration for some tricks you can take home. Alternatively, hop on a boat and take a cruise around the coast to see the rolling hills from a different perspective.

Included Activities:

Cinque Terre – Leader-led Hike
Cinque Terre – Day Pass

Optional Activities:

Cinque Terre - Coastal Cruise (41 EUR)
Cinque Terre - 'Il Laboratorio del Pesto' Making & Demonstration (25 EUR)
Cinque Terre - Via dell’Amore trail (10 EUR)

Accommodation:

Guesthouse (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Pisa

Say arrivederci to Cinque Terre this morning and make your way to Pisa. When you arrive, head over to the Piazza del Duomo where you’ll find the Battistero di San Giovanni, Cattedrale di Pisa and of course the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Join the crowds and get your very own picture holding up the tower or challenge your group to come up with the most original photo. You’ve got free time for the next few hours, so why not ask your leader for the best places to sample some salami, a few cheeses or where to get the best glass of Tuscan wine? Maybe try some Cecina Toscana (traditional flatbread) too. Leave Pisa mid-afternoon, and head for Florence, where your leader will take you on an orientation walk around the city. Ask them to point out any hot spots for dinner and drinks tonight, and where you can jump on an optional food tour or experience happy hour the Italian way (second aperitivo, anyone?).

Included Activities:

Pisa - Half Day Trip
Florence – Orientation Walk

Accommodation:

Hostel (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Florence

Today you have a full day to explore one of the most beautiful cities in Italy – Florence. Home to the great Michelangelo, why not visit the Accademia Gallery and see David himself, or visit his replica and other Rennaissance sculptures in the Piazza della Signoria. If you’re feeling up for a bit of a challenge, walk the 463 steps to the top of the Duomo and get one of the best 360 views of Florence. Hunt through the streets and see how many wine windows you can find (there are over 180!), taking full advantage of the quirky little holes in the wall that were originally put in so Florentines could still enjoy a glass of vino during times of plague. Tonight, come together as a group and enjoy a sunset aperitivo in Piazzale Michelangelo before heading out for the night.

Included Activities:

Florence - Sunset Aperitivo in Piazzale Michelangelo

Optional Activities:

Florence - Bargello Museum (13 EUR)
Florence - Medici Chapels (12 EUR)
Florence - Uffizi Gallery (29 EUR)
Florence - Brunelleschi 3 Days pass - Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo, Giotto Bell Tower and Brunelleschi Dome (30 EUR)
Florence - Palazzo Vecchio (18 EUR)
Florence - Accademia (20 EUR)
Florence - Pitti Palace, Gallery of Modern Art & Palatine Gallery (19 EUR)
Florence - Giotto 3 days pass - Giotto Bell Tower, Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo, and Santa Reparata (20 EUR)
Florence - Ghiberti 3 days pass - Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo and Santa Reparata (15 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hostel (multi-share) (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Rome

Your time in Firenze has come to an end. Today, you’ll be heading to the illustrious capital city – Rome. Walking in the footsteps of emperors, conquerors, gladiators and philosophers, the streets of Rome are steeped in history. Follow your leader on an orientation walk and get the lay of the land before heading off to explore. The Roman Colosseum (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) is a must-see for most, whether you admire the architectural marvel from the outside or immerse yourself in the history from the inside. If you’re looking for more ancient Roman architecture, check out the Forum (now home to a colony of cats). You can also talk to your leader about heading out to Vatican City where you can climb St Peter’s Dome or visit the Vatican Museum and check out Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel. Tonight, your leader can help you find the best place for dinner to toast to the end of your adventure.

Included Activities:

Rome - Orientation Walk

Optional Activities:

Vatican City - St Peter's Dome Climb & Elevator (10 EUR)
Vatican City - Vatican Museum (25 EUR)
Rome - Pantheon (5 EUR)
Rome - Christian Catacombs (10 EUR)
Rome - Keats-Shelley Memorial House (7 EUR)
Rome - Venezia Palace (18 EUR)
Rome - Galleria Borghese (17 EUR)
Rome - Castel Sant'Angelo (16 EUR)
Rome - Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill (18 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Rome

Your trip comes to an end this morning and it’s time to say goodbye to your group. As there is so much to see in Rome, it’s recommended that you stay a little longer and book a few more days – just speak to your booking agent.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

AUD $3,180

(Tour only)

Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 10 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Eat your weight in pasta, spend afternoons lazing in the sun, explore the best local hotspots and see one of the Seven Wonders of the World on this 10-day adventure through Italy’s essentials.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 09 May 2026

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

4.0

Taylor

Traveled, August 2025

08/20/2025

I had an amazing time touring Italy with Intrepid. All travel and hotels were perfectly organized so I could just enjoy the trip. Our tour leader was fantastic, super organized, fun, and full of great recommendations. The whole experience was stress-free, smooth, and unforgettable. Highly recommend Intrepid for easy travel.

4.0

Matthew

Traveled, August 2025

08/20/2025

Highly recommend Italy and this trip. I got to see so many highlights in a short timeframe, and really felt like I was making the most of my time. Our guide Giorgia was wonderful.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Book Now