The Best of Italy and Slovenia

Itinerary

1. Day 1 Arrival in Rome

   The capital of Italy is a vibrant, energetic and stylish city. While thoroughly modern in sensibility, Rome is also home to some of the world’s most important works of classic art and architecture. This city has been an epicenter for culture, politics and religion for more than 2,500 years. From the Spanish Steps to the Vatican, there are more than enough sights to keep even the most active tourists busy and even somewhere as popular as Rome you can find places just off the tourist trail and bustling with locals. But it’s also nice to slow down and enjoy Rome’s famous cafes and restaurants, which can be just as beguiling as the buildings. Lounge with an espresso on the Campo de Fiori and watch the changing light on the fountains and the facades. Visit the Vatican and explore some of the world’s most beautiful churches. Rome really comes alive at night, when restaurants and wine bars bring a renewed vitality to the city. You’ll also have opportunities for day trips to local vineyards, olive groves, and other places producing regional delicacies. No matter what your interests, or what kind of holiday you’re looking for, Rome will be an enjoyable destination.

   After you land at Rome's Fiumicino airport you will be met in the arrivals hall by a driver holding a sign with your name on. The journey to your accommodation in the center of Rome should take around an hour.

   

   Aperitivo

   If you are strolling in the city and it gets to early evening (around 6:30 PM), well, it's time for the "happy hour"! An Italian happy hour is called "aperitivo," and most bars offer it around this time. You can find many different kinds of aperitivo, from buffet to "à la carte", where you pick a drink (usually a glass of white wine or some prosecco) and you'll get something light to eat such as chips, nuts, or slices of pizza with it. The best places where you can go are Freni e Frizioni (Trastevere), Doppiozeroo (Ostiense), and Rec23 (Testaccio - a few steps from Circo Massimo). From June to September, along the river (Lungo Il Tevere), there are many stands and places where you can go right next to the water on the sidewalk.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

2. Day 2 Your First Full Day in Rome

   

   Premium Colosseum, Roman Forum and Palatine Hill Group Tour

   Explore the captivating tales of lions, gladiators, and emperors on a comprehensive journey through Ancient Rome. Skip the lines and enjoy express entry to the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill. With an expert guide leading a small group of no more than 15 individuals, immerse yourself in an intimate and enjoyable tour of these three iconic sites, delving into the rich history of Ancient Rome.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   A New Take on an Ancient Tradition

   Rome has a long tradition of "street art," as evidenced by the ancient graffiti etched into the city's oldest structures. For a more modern take, we have two recommendations. A historic industrial neighborhood in southern Rome, Ostiense, has been redeveloped into a more hip district. Here, you can admire street art from ROA, Sten&Lex, Lucamaleonte, and many others. Be sure to spot the concentration beneath the railroad bridge that arches over Via Ostiense, a few meters from the cemetery where the city's prominent non-Catholics were buried. The "Spagna" (Spanish Steps) subway stop has recently been involved in a joint project between the public transportation company of Rome (ATAC) and 999 Contemporary, a non-profit curatorial project promoting contemporary urban art. Here, many known street artists worked together to convert this busy area just below the iconic Spanish Steps into an area worth visiting.

   Suggestion to explore on your own

3. Day 3 Your Second Full Day in Rome

   

   The Complete Vatican Group Tour with Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel

   For an in-depth exploration of Rome's iconic highlights, this guided tour with an expert is a must. Discover the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museums, and beyond—an immersive Vatican journey. Skip the lines and delve into these remarkable buildings and their artistic treasures with your private guide, gaining insights into their rich history and profound significance.
   

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

   Watch the video

   

   Testaccio District Street Food Group Tour

   On this extraordinary journey through Rome's heart, you will uncover its true essence and savor authentic flavors guided by a local foodie expert. From the iconic Maritozzo welcome at Trastevere train station to hidden culinary gems in the Testaccio district, this tour offers a unique rendezvous with the city's soul, blending quality, quantity, and authenticity for a memorable experience. Delve into Rome's rich history, traditions, and daily life, complemented by delectable tastings and insights into local street food culture.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

4. Day 4 Traveling to Florence by Train / Arrival in Florence

   Today it's time to bid arriverderci to the Eternal City. You're headed to Italy's art palace, Florence. The high speed train service gets you there in just over an hour and a half. We've included standard class tickets in your package but can upgrade these to business class for an extra fee. We will also arrange for a driver to take you to Roma Termini station in plenty of time for your departing train.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Florence by Private Transfer with a stop in Orvieto

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   Florence is the capital of Tuscany and home to the region’s greatest Renaissance art and architecture. The Renaissance actually started here, and today the city’s numerous cathedrals and art galleries show the evidence of this rich and inspiring period. You’ll want to see the Duomo Cathedral and the Galleria dell’Accademia, which houses Michelangelo’s “David.” Botticelli and Da Vinci's works are here too, at some of the city’s other amazing galleries. But there’s more to do in Florence than simply admire the art. It’s a beautiful, romantic place, and even a stroll through the streets is charming. Add world-class restaurants, delectable local wine and cuisine, and a warm Tuscan welcome, and you have a destination unlike any other. Florence is also an ideal base for exploring Tuscany, with its picturesque hills and vineyards in the heart of Italy.

   Upon arriving to Florence's main station, Santa Maria Novella, we'll arrange for our driver to pick you up from the train station and take you to your centrally located accommodation.

5. Day 5 Your First Full Day in Florence

   

   Florence Walking and Accademia Gallery Private Tour

   With this tour you'll make the most of your time in Florence: you'll be picked up at your accommodation by your guide, who will lead you through the city streets. You'll explore the most important bridges, alleys, medieval markets and Renaissance palaces, so you can appreciate the best of this unique city. Together, you will then reach the Academia Gallery. The statue of David is definitely the most famous work on display, but it's certainly not the only thing worth seeing. Have your questions at the ready!

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Handmade Pasta & Gelato Tasting Group Class

   Experience Italy through two of its most beloved delicacies: fresh handmade pasta and authentic gelato. In this cooking class in Florence, you’ll learn to prepare both from scratch using time-honored traditions and innovative techniques. Guided by expert instructors, you’ll discover the secrets behind perfect pasta dough and creamy gelato.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

6. Day 6 Your Second Full Day in Florence

   

   The Tuscan Gems - Siena, San Gimignano and the Tuscan Countryside Small Group Tour

   See the highlights of Siena through the eyes of a local guide, admire the marvelous Tuscan landscape, taste genuine regional food (like assorted cold cuts, cured ham, salami, cheeses and bruschetta) paired with great wines, and finish your day relaxing in the hilltop village of San Gimignano, with its vertiginous medieval tower homes.

   • Activity Level : Moderate
   • Duration : 10 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

7. Day 7 Traveling to Venice by Train / Arrival in Venice

   Your time in Florence has drawn to a close but there's plenty more Italian splendor ahead of you as you push north to the magnificent maritime city of Venice. We have included standard class train tickets for the high-speed train service which takes around two hours. An upgrade to a higher class is possible at an extra cost. We'll arrange for our driver to pick you up from your accommodations and take you to Florence Train Station.

   

   You can upgrade your transfer

   Venice by Private Transfer with a stop in Modena

   Upgrade for an additional cost

   Venice is a legendary city with a charm and atmosphere all its own. The city was constructed on more than 100 islands connected by a series of canals, most of which are lined with gorgeous palaces, beautiful churches, and all sorts of impressive architecture. While the city isn’t huge, it is packed with pedestrian-only streets and quaint, winding alleys that will keep you exploring for days. The city is very popular with tourists year-round, so you certainly won’t be the only travelers walking through the streets with camera in hand. This being Italy, the cuisine in Venice is delicious, and we can especially recommend the Cicchetti of Venice tour. Cicchetti are Venetian tapas, and this tour will introduce you to some of the city’s most iconic eateries and its most delicious recipes. If it’s your first time in Venice, we can organize a tour to show you all the most important sites. And since no trip to the city of canals is complete without a boat ride, we offer a number of ways for you to get a new point of view of the city and its magnificent architecture. It’s easy to while away your time in Venice, discovering new secrets around every corner.

   Start your Venetian experience off in style by arriving in a private water taxi. We'll arrange a transfer by boat from Santa Lucia train station to the closest possible point to your hotel in Venice. Please note that porter assistance from the water taxi to the hotel is not included but can be arranged at extra charge.

   

   Venice: The Ultimate Romantic Getaway A City for Lovers

   Venice is considered one of the most romantic cities in the world due to its enchanting atmosphere, timeless beauty, and unique setting. Its winding canals, picturesque bridges, and narrow alleyways create an intimate and serene backdrop, perfect for strolling hand-in-hand with a loved one. The city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and art-filled piazzas exude a sense of timeless elegance, while gondola rides through the canals offer a peaceful and romantic experience. Whether enjoying a candle-lit dinner in a hidden courtyard or admiring the sunset over the Grand Canal, Venice's charm effortlessly evokes romance at every turn.

   • Activity Level : Easy
   • Duration : 25 minutes

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

8. Day 8 Your First Full Day in Venice

   

   First Time in Venice Private Tour

   Discover Venice with this unique walking tour, which unfolds through the elegant Piazza San Marco, surrounded by the governmental buildings of the ancient Republic. You'll see the beautiful Saint Mark church, then stroll through the Castello district including the large campo Santa Maria Formosa. The square of San Giovanni e Paolo will be your next stop. Before reaching Rialto you'll pass by the Marco Polo house. From the top of the famous Rialto bridge you'll encounter all the splendours of the Grand Canal.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Included in your vacation package price

   

   Venetian Tapas and Wine Tours

   You're in Italy, so good food isn't too far away if you know where to look. One of our favorite ways to get to know a city is by taking a food tour. We can highly recommend taking part in these small group tours and getting your culinary bearings set with an afternoon sampling cicchetti (Venetian tapas), accompanied by wine at Venice's best Bacari (traditional wine bars).

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 3 hours

   Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

9. Day 9 Your Second Full Day in Venice

   Murano and Burano

   Central Venice is amazing, but sometimes it's good to get out of the center and see something different. We recommend venturing away from the usual path and embarking on a boat journey to traverse the water and discover two captivating islands. Murano boasts charming architecture similar to Venice, but its primary allure lies in the remarkable glassblowers. You can witness their ongoing creations at numerous factories and showrooms throughout the island. On the other hand, Burano, like the rest of the islands in Venice, is a delightful destination comprised of smaller interconnected islands via numerous bridges. The island immediately captivates visitors with its vividly painted houses, radiating a unique and vibrant energy. Predominantly inhabited by artists, Burano offers an inviting environment for exploration and discovery. Whether you prefer a group boat excursion or a private one, we can arrange tours to enhance your experience.

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Premium Lagoon Group Tour with Murano Glass Blowing, Burano & St. Erasmo Winery

   Apart from Venice itself, the Venetian Lagoon is dotted with tiny gems of islands and this incredible tour shows you around the charms of the two most known among them: Murano and Burano. In the company of your small group, you'll enjoy a relaxing ride on a private boat and be amazed by a private glassmaking demonstration within the walls of a beautiful old church.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours 15 minutes

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

   

   Grand Canal Private Tour with Stops at Murano and Burano

   Explore Venice by water with a private boat tour along the Grand Canal, led by a knowledgeable crew sharing insights into the city's history and legends. Immerse yourself in Venetian culture by visiting Murano for a mesmerizing glass-blowing demonstration and Burano to experience its vibrant, colorful streets.

   • Activity Level : Light
   • Duration : 4 hours

   Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

10. Day 10 Traveling to Bovec by Private Transfer / Arrival in Bovec

    

    Today you'll be traveling to the lovely Julian Alps. We'll arrange for a water taxi to pick you up from your accommodations in Venice and take you to Piazzale Rome where our driver to meet you and take you to Bovec. The drive takes about 3.5 hours without stops but we think it's a better idea to make a day of it, stopping along the way in Slovenia at Postojna Cave and Predjama Castle. You'll have time to take the tour of one of the caves and marvel at the castle at the mouth of another cave afterward. Please note that the entrance fees are not included in the price.

    For travelers who like spending time in nature, it doesn't really get any better than The Julian Alps. This mountain range in northwestern Slovenia offers a wealth of picture-perfect landscapes, pristine hiking trails, rafting opportunities and much more. It's the perfect destination for a holiday that combines outdoor activities with relaxation. From hiking and swimming to rafting and cycling, there's more than enough to make your stay unforgettable. Besides the natural wonders, some of Slovenia's most notable towns are located in the region, including the beautiful Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, and the historic Fort Kluze. You will also have ample opportunities to enjoy the local cuisine, which features plenty of freshwater fish. The Edenic beauty of The Julian Alps will charm you, and the local hospitality will allow you to tailor your stay here to your own interests, whether that's conquering mountain peaks, or floating blissfully on one of the many emerald-green lakes and rivers.

    Your driver will bring you straight to your accommodation.

11. Day 11 Your First Full Day in Bovec

    

    Visiting Bovec, Kobarid, and Tolmin

    Discover a wealth of options to see and do in the Bovec, Kobarid, and Tolmin areas, seamlessly blending natural beauty with historical gems. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking Soca River, explore the renowned World War I Museum in Kobarid, and be captivated by the Kozjak waterfall near Kobarid, featuring its emerald pool. Delight in the Tolmin gorges, a natural marvel enhancing the region's charm, and marvel at the unique glow of Boka and Virje waterfalls. Also, don't overlook the historic Fort Kluze near Bovec, a living testament to the region's rich heritage. This region invites you to indulge in a day of delightful exploration!

    Suggestion to explore on your own

    

    Kayaking Down The Soca River Small Group Tour

    Kayaking is considered one of the best outdoor sports you can experience. The peacefulness of exploring untouched nature with the satisfaction of overcoming the challenges that the river presents guarantee you'll have a great time! The Soca River offers a plethora of whitewater activities you can experience, yet kayaking is one of the most attractive since adventurers of all age and fitness level can practice it.

    • Activity Level : Moderate
    • Duration : 3 hours 30 minutes

    Please ask your travel advisor for the cost to add this to your package

12. Day 12 Traveling to Ljubljana by Private Transfer / Arrival in Ljubljana

    

    Today you'll be leaving the Julian Alps and heading to lovely Ljubljana. You'll take your time along the way and enjoy some of the beautiful scenery and cities in between. This full-day transfer takes about 9 hours. It includes visits to Bled and Bohinj, both marvelous destinations, or Kobarid, another small town in the Julian Alps region. You can choose the stops with your driver based on your interests, whether you'd like to hike, raft, walk or just relax in nature. Please note that this is a non guided transfer with a local English-speaking driver.

    Ljubljana enjoys a central position, making it the ideal base for exploring the rest of Slovenia. It is a crossroads culturally due to its location. On one hand, you can see its Central European influences, because of its time within the Austro-Hungarian empire, in the city's architecture and language. On the other hand there is a strong Mediterranean and Balkan influence which is brought out in their laid back approach and the city's café culture. People are often surprised how westernized and advanced Slovenia is putting it more in a class with its Austrian neighbors than its Eastern European and Balkan counterparts. The surrounding areas of the city are packed with natural beauty and cultural sights bearing witness to the city's dynamic history. There is diverse range of places to satisfy culinary desires as the local cuisine is also heavily influenced by its neighbors in all directions. Wine lovers will find Slovenia to be a hidden gem. One of the best ways we have found to get to know Ljubljana and Slovenian cuisine at the same time is on a food tour, which will take you on a gastronomic tour of the whole country while walking around the center. The city layout is tourist friendly as the Old Town has an ever expanding pedestrian zone and a great way to see Ljubljana is by bike taking advantage of the numerous bike lanes spread out across the city.

    When you arrive in Ljubljana, your driver will take you directly to your accommodation.

    

    Castle Views and a Lovely Dinner

    Start your stay in Ljubljana by taking a funicular or a short walk to reach Ljubljana Castle, offering stunning views of the city below and the mountains beyond. Don't miss the museum, and if possible, catch a sunset from the castle grounds, especially the tower. End your day on a high note with dinner in one of the charming restaurants within the castle walls. We are confident that you'll go to bed feeling happy and in love with "the loved one," the literal translation of "Ljubljana." On the other hand, if you're still experiencing jet lag and seeking complete relaxation before your upcoming adventures, we recommend taking a short walk by the Ljubljanica River and having dinner at Julija Restaurant. Remember to make a reservation or let your local destination expert handle it for you; they will be delighted to assist!

    Suggestion to explore on your own

13. Day 13 Your First Full Day in Ljubljana

    

    Ljubljana Private Walking Tour

    Ljubljana never fails to win over visitors with its charm and natural beauty. Most of the Old Town has been converted to a pedestrian-only zone, so it’s easy to explore the highlights on foot. Explore medieval Ljubljana, from its culture and unusual sites, to its stories and legends, with a local guide. You’ll discover its baroque and Secession architecture, along with the works of the architect Joze Plecnik. You’ll walk across the center's charming bridges and through the open market and enter the impressive cathedral. Your guide will take you through Old Town, and along the banks of the river Ljubljanica. Learn all about the legend of the city's origin and visit the main attractions. By the end of the tour, you'll understand how Ljubljana, "The Beloved One," earned its name.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 2 hours

    Included in your vacation package price

    A Taste of sLOVEnia

    Slovenia is the first country to be named a European Region of Gastronomy, so if you want to truly experience Slovenia, you must experience its cuisine. It will be a delight for your tastebuds as well as a great way to get acquainted with the main attractions and landmarks. You’ll get a taste of the best of Slovenian gastronomy with dishes representing all its diversity and quality. We recommend enjoying a small group food tour, tasting your way around town, but also offer a memorable wine tasting, with games and challenges.
    

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    

    Ljubljana Food Tasting Small Group Tour

    Slovenia is the first entire country in Europe to be named a European Region of Gastronomy, an honor that has otherwise only been given to individual regions. Thus, if you want to truly experience Ljubljana, you must experience its cuisine as well, which is why we recommend this three-hour food tour with a local guide.

    • Activity Level : Light
    • Duration : 3 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

    Watch the video

    

    Wine Tasting Ljubljana Group Tour

    Get introduced to Slovenian wines the right way! This wine tasting will give you a better idea of the quality and variety of wines from Slovenia. You'll have around two hours in one of the oldest wine cellars in Slovenia, where you'll taste seven types of wine with some light bites.

    • Activity Level : Easy
    • Duration : 2 hours

    Suggested activities for an additional cost, depending on your choice

14. Day 14 Departure Day

    A driver will pick you up at your accommodation and transfer you to the airport for your departing flight. Duration of the transfer is about 30 minutes.