Italy Experience

Intrepid Travel · 10 days

4.3

21 Reviews

Duration

10 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Comfortable

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Venture through Italy, from the canals of Venice to the cobblestone streets of Rome. On this 10-day trip, you’ll visit historic sites and small villages, indulging in as much food and wine as you can handle.

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (9), Lunch (1), Dinner (3)
Accommodation: Hotel (9 nights)

Highlights

Take a daytrip to Perugia’s ancient town of Spello. Walk the winding laneways and cobbled streets, then sample the local wine and regional delicacies at a local enoteca for lunch.
See some iconic sites around Italy – the canals of Venice, Florence’s Duomo and maybe even one of the Seven Wonders of the World in Rome. Find out why these cities are so loved by so many and enjoy plenty of free time to explore at your own pace.
Eat your way through this foodie’s paradise with a tour in Venice and a pesto-making class along the Cinque Terre. With a local leader by your side, you’ll also get the inside scoop on the best gelato, wine and pasta!
Hike along the scenic Cinque Terre with a series of walking paths that connect the pastel villages of Monterosso, Corniglia and Riomaggiore.
Support the local community with a farewell dinner in Trastevere at a local cooperative that trains and employs local people living with disabilities.

Trip Details

Duration

10 days

Transportation

Train, Public bus, Ferry, Metro, Taxi

Guide Language

English

Starts

Venice, Italy

Finishes

Rome, Italy

Accommodations

Comfortable

Travel Style

Explorer, Budget

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

Day 1: Venice

Ciao! Welcome to Italy. Your adventure starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight in Venice. This watery wonderland of bridges, towers, piazzas, canals, churches and gondolas – practically unchanged for 600 years – is literally sinking under the weight of its iconic sites. If you arrive early maybe stroll over the Rialto Bridge or browse the boutique shops selling Venetian masks and handmade Murano glassware. Tonight, indulge in some delicious Venetian bites on a cicchetti (small bites) crawl through the city's fabulous bacari (wine bars), where you’ll also be treated to a glass of aperol spritz.

Included Activities:

Venice - Cicchetti tour & Spritz

Optional Activities:

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

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 2: Venice

Wake up to the magic of Venice and enjoy a free morning to explore this floating city at your own pace. Whether you choose to wander the maze of alleyways, sip a coffee in a tucked-away piazza, or hop on a Vaporetto to admire the views from San Giorgio’s bell tower – the city is yours to discover. In the afternoon, regroup for a special experience: a glass-blowing demonstration at a traditional Venetian furnace right in the heart of the city. Watch master artisans transform molten glass into delicate works of art – a craft that’s been part of Venice’s soul for centuries. Tonight, why not join your fellow travellers for a group dinner at a local restaurant? Venice is known for its seafood specialties, so be sure to try the fresh lobster or the iconic squid ink spaghetti. Buon appetito!

Included Activities:

Venice - Glass Blowing demonstration
Venice - Traghetto Ride

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 3: Cinque Terre

Spend the day travelling by train to the once important naval base of La Spezia – now the gateway to the Cinque Terre (Five Lands). The name comes from the five tiny villages – Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Venranzza, Monterosso – whose position, wedged into a series of coves between sheer cliffs, makes it one of the highlights of the whole of Italy. When you arrive in La Spezia there won't be too much time to explore, but after checking into your hotel, you can get your bearings with a short walk around the pedestrian zone on Via del Prione to the gardens along the harbour or head out for dinner with the group.

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 4: Cinque Terre

This morning, venture out on the footpaths of the Cinque Terre for a leader-led hike. The footpaths between the villages were once the only way to travel in the region and take you through olive groves and vineyards. When you arrive, maybe set off on a walk or take the train between the villages or back to the group's base. After working up an appetite, take advantage of the Liguria region with a pesto-making demonstration and the chance to create your own pesto. Of course, you’ll try your creation with a glass of wine afterwards. The rest of the day is free. In the evening, there's no better way to recover from your day of walking than with more indulgence in delicious Mediterranean food.

Included Activities:

Cinque Terre - 'Il Laboratorio del Pesto' Making & Demonstration
Cinque Terre - Cinque Terre Pass and leader-led hike

Optional Activities:

Cinque Terre - Via dell’Amore trail (10 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 5: Florence

Say goodbye to the dramatic coastline of Cinque Terre and hop aboard a train bound for Florence – the beating heart of the Italian Renaissance. After checking into your accommodation, head out to uncover the city’s rich history and artistic legacy with a guided walking tour. From the iconic Duomo to the Ponte Vecchio and the open-air sculptures of Piazza della Signoria, Florence is a living museum waiting to be explored. The rest of your evening is free to soak up the atmosphere – maybe grab a gelato, browse the boutiques, or find a cozy trattoria for dinner. Florence is full of charm, so take your time and enjoy it your way.

Included Activities:

Florence - Walking tour with local guide

Optional Activities:

Pisa - Leaning Tower of Pisa (27 EUR)
Pisa - 5 Monuments Combo Ticket (11 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 6: Florence

Today is free for you to explore all that Florence has to offer. The principal sights are easily discovered on foot – the Pitti Palace, Ponte Vecchio, Arno riverside, the many statues and monuments of the Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, Santa Maria del Fiore cathedral, the Baptistry and the Belltower, and the Santa Croce Church. Maybe visit the Uffizi – one of the world's oldest art galleries and a work of art in itself, see Michelangelo's iconic statue of David or head to the Galleria dell’ Accademia. In the evening, climb the steep stairs uphill to Piazzale Michelangelo for a renowned sunset view across the rooftops of Florence before an included dinner of Tuscan specialties at a local restaurant.

Included Activities:

Florence - Piazzale Michelangelo

Optional Activities:

Florence - Palazzo Vecchio (18 EUR)
Florence - Bargello Museum (13 EUR)
Florence - Brunelleschi 3 Days pass - Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo, Giotto Bell Tower and Brunelleschi Dome (30 EUR)
Florence - Medici Chapels (15 EUR)
Florence - Uffizi Gallery (29 EUR)
Florence - Accademia (20 EUR)
Florence - Ghiberti 3 days pass - Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo and Santa Reparata (15 EUR)
Florence - Giotto 3 days pass - Giotto Bell Tower, Baptistry, Museo Opera del Duomo, and Santa Reparata (20 EUR)
Florence - Foodies Walk Urban Adventure (89 EUR)
Florence - Pitti Palace, Gallery of Modern Art & Palatine Gallery (19 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 7: Perugia

After a free morning in Florence, travel by train to Perugia. The once-Roman settlement sits on a rocky hill with views over the green slopes of Umbria, and is now a university town with one of Italy's largest schools. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk through the medieval streets,, stopping along the way for an on-the-go pizza Romana (a rectangular, thick-crust pizza distinctive to Italy). This afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. Maybe visit the National Gallery of Umbria – a collection of regional art housed in the Palazzo dei Priori (a grand stone building from the 13th century) or head out when the sun goes down and explore the bustling nightlife. Tonight, Why not do as the Italians do and indulge in passeggiata (the tradition of strolling along the main street in the company of friends), maybe pausing for a glass of local prosecco.

Included Activities:

Perugia - Leader-led orientation walk
Perugia - Perugia Underground guided tour

Optional Activities:

Perugia - National Gallery of Umbria (10 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 8: Perugia

Take a train to the nearby medieval town of Spello – a Roman town that straddles a thin ridge at the base of Mount Subasio, which is the mountain where St Francis was said to have talked to the animals. It’s a place known for its wine and rural charm. Two of the local churches feature frescoes by famed Renaissance painter Pinturicchio, who later lent his hand to works in the Vatican and Siena’s Cathedral. Sample the local wine and regional delicacies with lunch at a local enoteca. Tartufo and porcini make up the base of many pasta and risotto dishes, while whole stuffed pig with rosemary is a signature dish of the region. Back in Perugia, the rest of your evening is free.

Included Activities:

Spello - Enoteca Wine Tasting & Lunch

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 9: Rome

This morning, take a bus to Rome and remember that while here, the best attitude is ‘when in Rome’! Join your leader on an orientation walk around the city, where you will pass by some of the iconic sights such as the Colosseum (one of the Seven Wonders of the World) and Arch of Constantine, the Forum, Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. If you have time, take a visit to the Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica. Then, head out to the Trastevere region tonight with your group for a final farewell dinner – this artsy part of the city is always a great spot for dinner, drinks and wandering around the winding lanes in the evening. Your local restaurant for tonight is Trattoria De Gli Amici – run by a social cooperative promoted by the community of Sant ‘Egidio, this business trains and employs local people living with disabilities.

Included Activities:

Rome - Leader-led orientation walk

Optional Activities:

Rome - Pantheon (5 EUR)
Vatican City - St Peter's Dome Climb & Elevator (10 EUR)

Accommodation:

Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

Day 10: Rome

As there are no activities planned today, your trip will come to an end. If you’d like to extend your stay in Rome, and it’s recommended that you do, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Optional Activities:

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

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
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.

From
AUD $6499

AUD $5,200

(Tour only)

Offer ends 20 Apr, 2026 Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 10 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 20 Apr 2026

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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

Pietro

Traveled, October 2023

10/23/2023

It was very informative. We felt very safe during our travels. Accommodations were nice. Everything went well! Would definitely book again. Especially if Michela Cioppa is leading the group. She made the trip very unique and family style. Overall great trip.

4.5

Michelle

Traveled, October 2023

10/23/2023

I’m usually a solo traveler (or travel with a small group of friends) but wanted to visit multiple places in Italy so thought it’d be convenient to join a tour. I picked this one because it struck a balance between planned group activities and unplanned time so that I could go explore on my own. Before the trip I planned to skip half of the group activities and spend most of the time on my own. But honestly? I had so much fun with the group! Michela is a FANTASTIC guide and I would follow her anywhere around the world.

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

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