Italy - Family Style

Itinerary

• Italy

  Italy is one of the most visited destinations in the world. It's top attractions include; Rome (Colosseum, Vatican City, PIazza Navona, Forum, Pantheon, Fountains of Trevi, Spanish Steps), Florence (Duomo, Old City, Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi), and Venice (Grand Canal, Doge's Palace, St. Marks Square). But there is much more to discover outside these heavily travelled spots.  Tuscany and Umbria with its wine, food and hilltowns (Sienna, San Gimignano, Orvietto, Spoleto), the dazzling Amalfi Coast (Positano, Capri, Sorrento), Siciliy with its old words ways, the urbane Milan and nearby Lake Como, the Italian Riviera... and more.  One important piece of advice, the soul of Italy is in its small towns, so be sure to get outside the big cities and into the country. That is where you will find the magic.

• Florence

  Even among Italy's finest cities, Florence is something special, rising from the beautiful landscape of Tuscany as a living piece of history. Everywhere you turn you'll see works by Michelangelo, Donatello, Brunelleschi and any number of Masters of Italy's Golden Age. It is in the museums and galleries of the city that most of Florence's treasures are concentrated. The piazzas are full of fashionable boutiques and ever more fashionable people, and the café is still central to the Florentine social life. In the evening the city lights up and its squares and streets are thronged with visitors and locals taking their "passeggiata" as the denizens of the city have done for thousands of years.

• Rome

  Rome, the 'Eternal City', is the capital of Italy. The historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure to explore the sites of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. A few blocks away, Old Rome is the center of the medieval and Renaissance periods, with beautiful plazas, cathedrals, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Fountains of Trevi, Campo de' Fiori, Spanish Steps, and plenty of shopping and dining. Just across the river is the Vatican, the Papal City State and its endless treasure troves of sights, relics, and museums, as well as the surrounding Italian neighborhood, Vaticano. Via Veneto leads north into modern Rome to the train station and is lined with glitzy shops and hotels for every budget.

• Venice

  In the rich cultures of Europe and celebrated cities of Italy, few places capture the imagination as much as Venice. Its fabled canalled thoroughfares and gilded palaces possess a beguiling beauty unsurpassed by anywhere else on Earth. Everywhere you go you'll find works of art - in the architecture itself or within the walls of the palaces and basilicas that are liberally sprinkled in every area of the city. Venice is an ever-changing, living canvas. No other place has such a mutable geography where you can discover delightfully peaceful piazzas and deserted canals seemingly unmarked on any map. Quite simply, there is nowhere else in the world quite like it.

• • Rome
  • Trevi Fountain
  • Piazza Navona
  • Hotel Exedra

  Day 1: Rome

  Enjoy a private Airport (Fiumicino/Ciampino) transfer with a private vehicle and driver.

  A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.

  Enjoy one of the most delightful and fascinating walks in the world!  Monumental Rome is a mix of piazzas (squares), Rennaissance architectural masterpieces, and thousands of years of history -all interwoven with cafes, shopping, and great gelato! Your walk through the historical centre starts at the Spanish Steps, famously leading down to the historic center of the city and surrounded with fabulous shopping, from bargain to the top brands. Continue to the Trevi Fountain where legend says if you flip a coin into the water you are sure to return to Rome. The Piazza Colona's great buildings are hemmed in by rushing traffic, so continue on a few blocks to the massive Pantheon, which was built in the First Century B.C. and for millenia was the highest arched building in the world. Its a short walk to Piazza Navona, with the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers, Bernini's masterpiece. This square is packed with artists, cafes, and a swirl of faces - its a great place to enjoy the view. You can explore this part of the city for days!

  Accommodation: Hotel Exedra (5*)

  The Hotel Exedra occupies a magnificent 19th century white marble palazzo overlooking Rome's imposing Piazza della Repubblica and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, with views extending over the Diocletian Baths of ancient Rome and the centuries old Monti district of the city.The hotel's 240 rooms and suites, half of which enjoy views over the Piazza della Repubblica and the Diocletian baths, are decorated in a classically inspired soft ecru palette enriched with precious tones of gold. The suites, the décor of which varies from the dramatic tones of the second floor suite to the light airy hues of the fourth floor apartment, each has its own dining room, living room and private bar. The bathrooms have been inspired by both ancient and contemporary spa culture, with mosaic covered walls, hammam and hydro-massage bath tubs.  Under new Roman law, hotels charge a small amount per traveller per day as a “tourist tax”, which needs to be paid locally through your hotel in Rome. Amounts may vary, but currently the cost is 2EUR per person for 2* & 3* hotels and 3EUR for 4* & 5* hotels. The charges will be added to your bill upon check out and are non-negotiable.

• • The Colosseum
  • Gladiators in combat

  Day 2: Rome

  Enjoy a 3 hour private tour of Rome exploring the rich past of the Roman era taking in the most famous sites of Imperial Rome. The Capitolium square owes its splendid layout to Michelangelo. The Roman Forum, the centre of Imperial Rome, lies just down the valley between the Palatine, Quirinale and Capitolium hills. Several Temples, Triumphal Arches, Ancient Basilicas, Rostra, the Curia House and many other ancient monuments, make this valley a sort of open-air museum. See all of these sights, including the Colosseum,  with your Private Guide as you discover the wonders of Rome.

  Master the basics of hand-to-hand combat at a genuine gladiator school on the ancient Appian Way! You'll discover the secrets of Imperial Rome's gladiator games, get hands-on with ancient Roman history and have the best fun you can imagine! During your two-hour lesson, your gladiator instructor will teach you how to fight with authentic weapons used by the gladiators of ancient Rome. Dressed in a traditional gladiator tunic, belt, leather protective glove and rudis (training sword), you can let your imagination run wild as you play like Spartacus for a day, fighting off ferocious lions and sword-wielding warriors! Next, learn the basic techniques of gladiatorial sword fighting and take part in an optional gladiatorial tournament, with the winner receiving a victory prize. All participants receive a certificate of accomplishment. if you are not feeling so brave, you can always watch the activity from the great viewing platform. Are you up to the challenge of this truly Roman experience combining culture, sport and ancient legends?? (Your tour includes a Two-hour gladiator lesson led by members of the Historic Group of Rome, Hire of gladiator clothing and weapons, complimentary drink & entrance to the Gladiator School of Rome Museum).

  Accommodation: Hotel Exedra (5*)
• • Florence
  • Brunelleschi

  Day 3: Rome - Florence

  You will be met by a private driver and escorted from the train station to your accommodation.

  Enjoy the train ride from Rome to Florence. Train duration is approximately 1 hour 30 mins.

  Take a private train station transfer in Florence. Please note that a surcharge may be post billed to you if you require a transfer after 8pm or before 7am.

  Accommodation: Brunelleschi (4*)

  The Hotel Brunelleschi (4*) is located in the historical centre of Florence, a stone’s throw from the Uffizi Gallery, the “Piazza della Signoria” and one of the world’s most famous  shopping streets. The Brunelleschi has 96 rooms and suites, spectacular views of the “Duomo”, a restaurant, and a gym. The hotel has been created within a circular Byzantine tower and a medieval church, entirely reconstructed, but keeping the original characteristics of the buildings. Inside you can find a private museum in which is conserved the architectural ruins discovered during the restoration of the buildings.  This hotel is also featured at the end of Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code”. 

• • Duomo in Florence
  • Pizza

  Day 4: Florence

  Enjoy a half day walking tour with your private local guide. You will be met at your hotel by your licensed and knowledgeable English speaking Guide and can proceed on foot to view the top sights. This personalized tour will give you local insight into the real history and hidden gems. (No entrance fees included).

  On your tour you will see the Central Market zone, characterised by its workshops and multicolored stands. Located in this area are the Medici Chapels, and the Basilica di S. Lorenzo, which is the church of the famous Medici family. A short stroll from the marketplace is the Piazza del Duomo, where you can admire the picturesque Cathedral from both the interior and exterior. This Cathedral is known for its dome created by Brunelleschi, its bell tower designed by Giotta, and its Paradise Door on the Saint John Baptistery. The tour continues by visiting the medieval quarters where Dante Alighieri and Beatrice once lived. Moving further through the city you will find the Palazzo del Bargello. Not too far from there you will arrive at the Piazza della Signoria, a great "open-air sculpture museum", which overlooks the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. You will then proceed to the Mercato della Paglia (straw market), where the famous Piglet Fountain is located. Moving along, you will travel along the street that leads you to Ponte Vecchio, also known as the "jewel-bridge." After snapping some photos along this famous bridge, you will arrive at the wonderful Pitti Palace. This is a suggested itinerary - if you have anything specifc you wish to visit please let you guide know. As this is a private tour you can tailor it as you wish.

  When imagining Italian cuisine the first few pictures that arrive in your head are pizza, gelato, and pastries. This fun course will teach you the techniques used by Italian chefs for creating these delicious meals. Learn to prepare a real Neapolitan pizza using dough leavened in the traditional method. Create homemade gelato using natural ingredients, as well as a delectable dessert made from best Tuscan chocolate. To conclude your culinary adventure, your dinner will consist of the dishes that you have produced along with a regional Tuscan wine. This tour departs from The Piazza Santa Trinita, at the Column. (Runs 6.15pm to 9.30pm)

  Accommodation: Brunelleschi (4*)
• • San Gimignano

  Day 5: Florence

  Enjoy a full day tour (6hrs) which gives you the opportunity of discovering the Chianti region. The coach with English speaking Guide will first take you through the countryside of the Chianti area with an ever-changing scenery of vineyards and olive trees. Enjoy a visit to San Gimigamo, a tiny city that has remained intact through the centuries. The city is situated on top of a hill and is famous for its numerous towers, frescos and other art treasures. On arrival in Siena there is some free time for lunch (not included). Fully sated, your Guide will bring you on a guided visit of this magnificent mediaeval city. It is possible to admire the Cathedral, the Piazza dal Campo one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, the Town Hall, and San Domenico, with its numerous treasures of Italian painting. During the return journey you will see the old medieval village of Monteriggioni enclosed by its famous walls which are still intact.

  Accommodation: Brunelleschi (4*)
• • Venice
  • Palace Bonvecchiati Hotel

  Day 6: Florence - Venice

  Take a private train station transfer in Florence. Please note that a surcharge may be post billed to you if you require a transfer after 8pm or before 7am.

  Enjoy the train journey from Florence to Venice by fast speed train. Travel time is approximately 2 hours 40 mins.

  The Venice Santa Lucia Train Station is the main station travelers arrive and depart from in Venice. It’s a modern building in the main city and is connected to the Grand Canal. The station is a great entrance to the ancient city of Venice and is very easily accessible by public transport and local water taxis. Upon your arrival, please follow the signs and make your way to the exit. Walk down the steps and veer left towards the LOCAL WATER TAXI stand, between the bridge and the vaporetto station. Join the queue and instruct the driver to take you to your specific hotel. Please be aware that not all hotels have a private boat launch so you may be dropped off at the nearest water taxi stand. It is a short walk to your hotel from there. When departing, please ask your hotel to arrange a water taxi for you. Please note that a private boat transfer can easily be arranged for you and by local Venetian Law, the price is approximately 120-300 Euro.

  Accommodation: Palace Bonvecchiati (4*)

  The Palace Bonvecchiati (4*) is located in the heart of Venice, has the most privileged position of any 4-star hotel in Venice: the hotel is in Calle Goldoni, just a 3-minute walk from Saint Mark's Square and 5 minutes from the Rialto Bridge. Palace Bonvecchiati is unique to Venice: a modern luxury hotel in the heart of historic Venice. The lounge is of exceptional class and elegance, where authentic contemporary works of art are found as a counterpoint to the very original red sofas that stand out against the terrazzo floor and the precious marble of the walls.

• • Venetian Masks
  • Gondola's in Venice

  Day 7: Venice

  Enjoy a 4 hour private Mask decoration and Art and Craft tour with an English speaking local Guide. Your local guide will pick you up at your hotel and walk you through the streets of Venice as you learn the history behind the famous Venician Mask. Learn the enormous wealth of facts and customs surrounding the Venice Carnival and why masks played such an important role. After your walking tour, you'll reach a local arts factory where you will create your own masterpiece with help from local mask making experts.

  Sit back and relax on a marvellous and enchanting half an hour evening gondola ride through the Grand Canal and inner canals of Venice. You will breathe the atmosphere of this ancient city built on water. Start your journey at the 'Stazio Gondole Santa Maria del Giglio". Close to Saint Mark, right on the Grand Canal, in front of Guggenheim Collection palace and Santa Maria della Salute church; this gondola station is one of the oldest Gondola stops in Venice.

  Accommodation: Palace Bonvecchiati (4*)

• Day 8: Venice

  Take a water taxi from your hotel to the airport. Your hotel concierge should be able to help you with the arrangements on site. The fare to the Venice Airport is dependent on the location of your hotel and how many people are traveling with you. Alternatively, if you would like to have a private transfer arranged for you in advance, please speak to your Sales Advisor.

  Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)

Accommodation

• Culinary Delights

  Florence cuisine arose from the peasant fare of the surrounding countryside. Characterized by rustic dishes created with fresh ingredients and simple preparations, Tuscan food ranks among the world's best. A highlight in the summer is an Insalata Caprese all Bufala, a tomato and mozzarella salad prepared with fresh cheese made from Buffalo.  The original creamy textured Mozarella di Bufala originated in Southern Italy, however several local artisanal cheese-makers have perfected the art and it is truly a national delicacy.  Served with fresh tomatoes, basil and a drizzle of the local olive oil, or simply with a chunk of Fresh Tuscan bread or a slice of Prosciutto, few taste sensations can beat this one.

• Pampered Indulgence

  There are various theories as to the origin of the name Chianti. The most popular has it that the word derives from the Latin clangor, meaning the cry of a bird or a high pitched note from a trumpet, and that this alludes to the wild and uncultivated countryside of the area, fit for hunting rather than agriculture. Another far more mundane theory ascribes the name to an Etruscan family of the area, or perhaps a winegrower from the hills above Florence. In any event, the Chianti region, home to both traditional style Chiantis and the rebellious "Super Tuscans", is producing some of the finest wine in its history as a result of ever higher standards coupled with some wonderful vintages.

• Culinary Delights

  Florence cuisine arose from the peasant fare of the surrounding countryside. Characterized by rustic dishes created with fresh ingredients and simple preparations, Tuscan food ranks among the world's best. A highlight in the summer is an Insalata Caprese all Bufala, a tomato and mozzarella salad prepared with fresh cheese made from Buffalo.  The original creamy textured Mozzarella di Bufala originated in Southern Italy, however several local artisanal cheese-makers have perfected the art and it is truly a national delicacy.  Served with fresh tomatoes, basil and a drizzle of the local olive oil, or simply with a chunk of Fresh Tuscan bread or a slice of Prosciutto, few taste sensations can beat this one.

• • Hotel Exedra

  Hotel Exedra (5*)

  The Hotel Exedra occupies a magnificent 19th century white marble palazzo overlooking Rome's imposing Piazza della Repubblica and the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, with views extending over the Diocletian Baths of ancient Rome and the centuries old Monti district of the city.The hotel's 240 rooms and suites, half of which enjoy views over the Piazza della Repubblica and the Diocletian baths, are decorated in a classically inspired soft ecru palette enriched with precious tones of gold. The suites, the décor of which varies from the dramatic tones of the second floor suite to the light airy hues of the fourth floor apartment, each has its own dining room, living room and private bar. The bathrooms have been inspired by both ancient and contemporary spa culture, with mosaic covered walls, hammam and hydro-massage bath tubs.  Under new Roman law, hotels charge a small amount per traveller per day as a “tourist tax”, which needs to be paid locally through your hotel in Rome. Amounts may vary, but currently the cost is 2EUR per person for 2* & 3* hotels and 3EUR for 4* & 5* hotels. The charges will be added to your bill upon check out and are non-negotiable.

  • More information
• • Brunelleschi Hotel (4*)
  • Brunelleschi - Guest Room

  Brunelleschi (4*)

  The Hotel Brunelleschi (4*) is located in the historical centre of Florence, a stone’s throw from the Uffizi Gallery, the “Piazza della Signoria” and one of the world’s most famous  shopping streets. The Brunelleschi has 96 rooms and suites, spectacular views of the “Duomo”, a restaurant, and a gym. The hotel has been created within a circular Byzantine tower and a medieval church, entirely reconstructed, but keeping the original characteristics of the buildings. Inside you can find a private museum in which is conserved the architectural ruins discovered during the restoration of the buildings.  This hotel is also featured at the end of Dan Brown’s “The Da Vinci Code”. 

  • More information
• • Palace Bonvecchiati Hotel

  Palace Bonvecchiati (4*)

  The Palace Bonvecchiati (4*) is located in the heart of Venice, has the most privileged position of any 4-star hotel in Venice: the hotel is in Calle Goldoni, just a 3-minute walk from Saint Mark's Square and 5 minutes from the Rialto Bridge. Palace Bonvecchiati is unique to Venice: a modern luxury hotel in the heart of historic Venice. The lounge is of exceptional class and elegance, where authentic contemporary works of art are found as a counterpoint to the very original red sofas that stand out against the terrazzo floor and the precious marble of the walls.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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