Treasures of Italy

The treasures of Italy itinerary includes the epically beautiful cities of Rome, Florence and Venice, with a stop in the harmonious Tuscan countryside.

Italy is full of treasures, from the historic ruins of Rome to Michelangelo’s masterpieces to the spaghetti bolognese served on your table. A quick and efficient rail system makes it easy to get around the country, and an Italy rail pass is all you need to hop from one art-filled city to the next. This itinerary even sneaks in a stop in Siena in the rural region of Tuscany, so you can slow down for a day or two and savor la dolce vita in the sunshine with an extra helping of gelato.

Note: this trip can be traveled in any direction, and Milan is an easy addition for those who want to explore the fashion capital of Italy. The cheapest airports to fly in and out of are almost always Rome and Milan.

Highlights

Walk in the footsteps of Julius Caesar on centuries-old marble in Rome. Tour the Coliseum with images of gladiators (or Russell Crowe) in your head. Dodge a speeding Vespa and duck into a café for a slice of pizza. Catch a fireworks show over the Arno River in Florence. See Michelangelo’s David and walk away a different person. Light a candle in a duomo. Ride in a gondola in Venice. Step back in time in the medieval town of Siena, and wash it all down with a robust glass of Chianti and a twilight walk around the history of the Western world.

Suggested Route

Starting Point: Rome

Ending Point: Rome (or Milan or Venice)

Time Frame: 14 days +/-

Arrive in Rome, spending a few days, then take the train north with a couple of days in Siena in the Tuscany region. Continue to Florence, and then on to Venice, spending at least three days in each major city.

You can fly out of Venice (though it will cost you), travel back to Rome, or head out of Milan- after doing a little shopping, of course.