Christmas in Italy: Rome to Venice

Arrive at any time. Meet your CEO and fellow travellers at a welcome briefing this evening at the hotel then head out for an optional dinner with the group. There are no planned activities until tonight's welcome meeting.

Enjoy a G Adventures supported migrant led walk of Rome before taking public transit to discover the magic of Rome's most iconic Christmas market at Piazza Navona! Built on the site of the 1st century Stadium of Domitian, this ancient site transforms into a colourful paradise boasting merchant stalls selling local handicrafts, toys, and sweets, a classic carousel, and the quintessential Christmas tree. After, walk with your CEO from Navona to Spagna learning the local history of must-see stops along the way.

Depart Rome by train then transfer to the town of Pienza for a visit and for some free time to explore. Continue on to Montepulciano in the heart of the Tuscan countryside and enjoy the medieval and renaissance hill town with an orientation walk and a local wine tasting. Montepulciano is famous for producing delectable local pork, cheese, "Pici" pasta, and honey. It is also major wine producing area. Take in the stunning vistas, wander cobbled lanes, or opt to sample the local delicacies in small, family-run establishments.

Spend the day in the Italian countryside. The famous wine-producing region is the perfect place for an optional vineyard tour and wine tasting, or a bike ride in the rolling hills. For those looking to travel further afield, a visit to the thermal springs of Bagni San Filippo is a popular option.

Travel to picturesque Siena. After an orientation walk around this medieval city, opt to visit Torre del Mangia, Battistero, il Campo, or the Duomo or to take a "passeggiata" and meet the Sienese locals. Continue on to Florence and enjoy an evening walk to Piazzale Michelangelo for a fantastic panoramic view of the city, walking through the Mercato di Natale Firenze Christmas Market along the way. The famous "Weihnachtsmarkten" is Florence's iconic Christmas market, located in the heart of the city on Piazza Santa Croce, in front of Basilica de Santa Croce.

Immerse yourself in the splendor of Florence on a guided walking tour this morning. Catch a glimpse of the intricate buildings that make Florence a favourite to travellers the world over, and better understand the rich history and local way of living. With a free afternoon, the choices are endless. Opt to visit the Duomo, David at the Galleria dell'Accademia, Uffizi Gallery, medieval Ponte Vecchio, or the Medici Chapels, just to name a handful. The afternoon is yours to explore. Check out the Mercato Centrale or any number of cafes and trattorias. If you came to shop, start at one end of the city and just keep going. There's beautiful architecture, famous museums, Renaissance art pieces, and charming cobblestone streets everywhere. If you wish to go further afield, take a wine tasting bike tour up to Fiesole and the vineyards of Chianti.

Settle in for the journey to Venice by train this morning and soak in the beautiful scenery along the way. Once at the hotel, take time to relax before heading out on foot for a guided walking tour and immerse yourself in this incredible city's beauty before exploring the local Christmas market. Enjoy a free evening or join the group for an optional dinner at one of your CEO's favourite local spots. Known as the "City of Canals" or "The Floating City," Venice is one of Italy's most famous and picturesque destinations. Between the winding canals connecting San Marco with the Santa Chiara church, the bridge of sighs, and the Doge's Palace, there are no shortage of photo ops and iconic moments.

Take advantage of a full free day to experience everything that Venice has to offer including the festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets. Explore Venice's diverse culinary scene with a food tour, take a gondola ride, or wander along canals and through the maze-like streets; pass world-class museums and incredible architecture in all directions. Regroup in the evening for an optional final dinner out with the group.

Depart at any time.