Italian Lakes & Cities
Pristine lakes and historic cities!
Enjoy a lakeside getaway followed by a city adventure on this 8-night adventure through Italy! Begin in Como then travel by rail to Florence and Rome. Enjoy entrance to must-see stops such as the Sistine Chapel and Vatican museums and a guided tour of Florence.
Unique Explorations
- Explore picturesque gardens and villas while surrounded by the stunning lakes of Como.
- Enjoy breathtaking views of the Italian countryside as you make your way from destination to destination by rail.
- Stare into the eyes of Michelangelo’s David in Florence.
- Legend has it that throwing a coin into Rome’s Trevi Fountain will guarantee you a return trip to the Eternal City; toss one in and find out for yourself!
- Enjoy early entrance admission to the Vatican Museums, where you can experience Michelangelo’s famous Sistine Chapel ceiling firsthand.
Embark on an Italian adventure! You’ll start off in the Como area, where you’ll be surrounded by the stunning lakes of Como. Enjoy post-card worthy views as you explore the surrounding lush gardens and historical villas.
You’ll then continue to Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance. Every street, piazza, and alleyway is haunted with the city’s renaissance past. Florence is often referred to as an open-air gallery, and it’s not hard to see why; you’ll see masterpieces from Michelozzo to Brunelleschi sprinkled throughout the city. Enjoy a guided tour through the city, from the breathtaking Duomo to the Accademia, where you can stare into the eyes of Michelangelo’s David.
Your adventure ends in the vibrant capital city: Rome! Here you can explore ancient ruins, pay homage to important religious sites, and experience some of the world’s most iconic works of art, from Raphael’s School of Athens to Michelangelo’s famous Sistine Chapel ceiling.
PRICES FROM: $2,500*PER PERSON
*Vacation is round-trip, per person, based on 2 travelers departing from
Atlanta. Includes air, airport taxes, hotel, transfers, daily breakfast and more. Additional baggage charges may apply. Rates are available for 1 to 9 travelers. Sceptre
Rates are not guaranteed until booked.
Terms and Conditions apply.
Arrive in Milan Airport (MXP), and enjoy a transfer to your first accommodation in Como. Spend the rest of the day in this city at the southern tip of Lake Como at your leisure.
Transfer to Como hotel
You’ll be in one of these hotels, depending on availability
Sheraton Lake Como Hotel
COMO, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Sit back pool side or venture to the dazzling Lake Como while staying at the refined Sheraton Lake Como Hotel. Guests can enjoy the chic interior and decour, along with an outdoor pool, daily breakfast buffet, on-site dining in the restaurant, cafe, and more.
Hotel Barchetta Excelsior
COMO, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Lake Como at the elegant, yet comfortable Hotel Barchetta Excelsior. Located right on the main square facing the lake, this hotel is the ideal starting point for wherever your adventure may lead.
Grand Hotel Cadenabbia
COMO, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
In the heart of Lake Como, Grand Hotel Cadenabbia is set in a beautiful villa overlooking the deep blue lake that Italy is so famous for. combines the beauty of Lake Como with the comfort of a modern hotel.
Grand Hotel Menaggio
MENAGGIO, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Grand Hotel Menaggio is the place to turn your Italian dream vacation into a reality. Overlooking the gorgeous Lake Como and boasting restaurants, boutiques, a pool, private moorings for boats, and more.
Hotel Metropole Suisse
COMO, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Enjoy a relaxing stay in the heart of Como at Hotel Metropole Suisse, family run since 1892. Located in the center of the city overlooking Lake Como, you will be within short walking distance from not only the lake but all of Como’s must-see sights like Broletto, Cathedral of Como and Casa del Fascio. The hotel is located across the street from the boat docks and within walking distance of both train stations.
Behind the beautiful 19th-century facade, Hotel Metropole Suisse has 100 rooms decorated with a tasteful European touch, while suites feature stunning views of Lake Como. Enjoy complimentary breakfast and then dinner at Ristorante Imbarcadero, serving fine Italian cuisine in a formal dining salon or outside on the summer lake front terrace. Metropole’s staff will help you organize excursions by foot or car, restaurant reservations, boat trips and everything else this enchanting area has to offer.
Thanks to its role in many Hollywood hits, Villa Balbianello is one of the most recognizable highlights of Lake Como. Explore its breathtaking architecture, then wind down and enjoy dramatic views of the surrounding lake.
Consider visiting Varenna today to see its 11th-century castle that dominates the skyline. Explore the villas and gardens that make up this Lake Como treasure, or simple relax and revel in the views below, freshly-brewed cappuccino in hand.
ake the train to Florence today; enjoy breathtaking views of Tuscany’s winding roads and vineyards scattered throughout the countryside as you make your way.
Florence is not only the birthplace of the Renaissance, but also the birthplace of the inventor of gelato! End your first night in Florence on a sweet note by treating yourself to a serving of the sweet stuff.
Train to Florence
You’ll be in one of these hotels, depending on availability
Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli
FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
The Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli combines historic charm with modern amenities. This stately 16th century palace sits on the historic Via San Gallo and once belonged to the famous Ricasoli family. Florence’s best attractions are all within walking distance, from the Duomo to the Exposition Center (Palazzo Congressi and Fortezza da Basso) to the Accademia Gallery. Dine al fresco at one of the many Florentine trattorias and revel in the impressive architecture dotting the city.
This spacious hotel features 130 rooms equipped with free WI-FI, separate living areas and air conditioning, plus a free 120-car parking garage that can be easily reached from the city center. Savor the pleasing Tuscan air from the panoramic solarium and terrace while sipping a glass of Chianti. Before heading out for a day of sightseeing, enjoy the many works of art and sculpture from the hotel’s private collection.
Hotel Adler Cavalieri
FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Immerse yourself in the art and culture of Florence at the historic Hotel Adler Cavalieri. Enjoy the elegant Italian decor, wooden paneling, Tuscan marble, and frescoed ceilings of this former monastery that dates back to the 1300s.
The J & J Historic House Hotel Florence
FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Feel right at home at the rustic, charming J & J Historic House Hotel in Florence. A former 16th-century Florentine monastery, the hotel has since been transformed into an elegant 4-star hotel exuding tranquility and peace.
Grand Hotel Adriatico
FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Enjoy an elegant stay in Florence by spending your nights in the Grand Hotel Adriatico. Beautifully designed with hardwood floors and furniture, warm color schemes that make you feel at home, and an attentive staff to handle all questions and needs.
Roma Hotel, Florence
FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Immerse yourself in the artistic beauty of Florence at the elegant 4-star Hotel Roma. Step into its sophisticated lobby and admire rich colors and traditional decor. Check-in with the hotel’s friendly reception team, then head up to your spacious room.
Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli
FLORENCE, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
The Hotel Palazzo Ricasoli combines historic charm with modern amenities. This stately 16th century palace sits on the historic Via San Gallo and once belonged to the famous Ricasoli family. Florence’s best attractions are all within walking distance, from the Duomo to the Exposition Center (Palazzo Congressi and Fortezza da Basso) to the Accademia Gallery. Dine al fresco at one of the many Florentine trattorias and revel in the impressive architecture dotting the city.
This spacious hotel features 130 rooms equipped with free WI-FI, separate living areas and air conditioning, plus a free 120-car parking garage that can be easily reached from the city center. Savor the pleasing Tuscan air from the panoramic solarium and terrace while sipping a glass of Chianti. Before heading out for a day of sightseeing, enjoy the many works of art and sculpture from the hotel’s private collection.
Discover the exciting culture, dynamic atmosphere, and all of the history that exists in this vibrant city with your included guided Florence tour. This half-day morning tour provides a fascinating and comprehensive overview of the beautiful city of Florence, including a guided tour of the Accademia Gallery.
You’ll be driven up the romantic Viale dei Colli to Piazzale Michelangelo, where you’ll stop to admire the breathtaking view of the beautiful city of Florence, spread out beneath you. You’ll continue by coach into the center of the oldest part of the town, and will proceed on foot for a guided visit of the Santa Maria del Fiore or Duomo complex; the Baptistery with its gilded bronze doors including the famous Doors of Paradise; the exterior of the Cathedral with the magnificent Brunelleschi Dome and Giotto’s Belfry, with it’s fascinating marble statues and reliefs.
On a short walk through the historical streets you’ll pass the rustic stone Palazzo Medici Riccardi, where young Michelangelo lived as a guest of Lorenzo the Magnificent, on your way to the Gallery of the Accademia, where you’ll admire the famous “David” by Michelangelo. Your guided tour will end inside the museum, enabling you to explore further on your own.
Florence Guided City Tour with Accademia Gallery (half-day – morning)
This half-day morning tour provides a fascinating and comprehensive overview of the beautiful city of Florence, including a guided tour of the Accademia Gallery. The Florence discovery begins with a relaxing and scenic bus tour that offers panoramic views of the unparalleled beauty of Florence and the surrounding countryside. Begin with a trip by Fiesole, a delightful town of Etruscan origin set on a hill overlooking Florence and then, after a drive along the romantic Viale dei Colli up to Piazzale Michelangelo – a stop to admire the amazing panorama of the city, one of the most beautiful in the world.
The tour will proceed through the historic center with the guided visit of the renowned Accademia Gallery which hosts the famous David by Michelangelo and other masterpieces by the great artist. Then we proceed with the exterior guided visit of San Lorenzo Church and the stunning Duomo complex: San Giovanni Baptistery with its bronze doors including the famous Porta del Paradiso and the Cathedral with the magnificent Cupola del Brunelleschi and the elegant Giotto’s bell tower. Your guided tour will end inside the museum, enabling you to explore further on your own. Please note: The Accademia is closed on Mondays; tours scheduled for this day will be replaced by a visit to the San Marco Museum or the Medici Chapels.
Hop on the train and embark on the next leg of your adventure to Italy’s capital city of Rome.
On your first evening, consider taking a stroll through the city and experiencing the highlights illuminated come nightfall.
Train to Rome!
You’ll be in one of these hotels, depending on availability
Hotel Marcella Royal
ROME, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
This 4-star boutique hotel offers guests an ideal location along with luxurious accommodations and services. Escape the bustling city life into one of the tranquil and relaxing guest rooms. There is a roof garden with incredible panoramic views of Rome and in the mornings there is a delicious buffet breakfast available here!
Empire Palace Hotel
ROME, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Unwind in elegance in the lovely Empire Palace Hotel. Feel like old royalty as you wander through the Venetian-styled building in the heart of Rome, which offer modern conveniences like an on-site gym, a classy bar and elegant restaurant.
Hotel Victoria
ROME, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Stay in style at the 4-star boutique Hotel Victoria, built in 1899. Located in the historical center of Rome, the famous Via Veneto, Spanish Steps, Villa Borghese, and Piazza del Popolo are all within easy walking distance.
Hotel dei Mellini
ROME, ITALY 4 out of 5 stars
Escape to this luxurious retreat that will make you feel right at home in Rome. As soon as you walk through the doors of Hotel dei Mellini, you’ll enter a peaceful atmosphere filled with elegant decor, incredible natural light, and tons of classic artwork. Settle into your stylish, soundproof room where you’ll notice a Smart TV, air conditioning, and a gorgeous Carrara marble bathroom. Once you put your luggage down, get exploring! In just steps, find yourself at Vatican City, the Spanish Steps, and the Trevi Fountain.
Back at the hotel, relax on the sunning deck or sip a cappuccino on the lush rooftop garden overlooking the historic city below. Keep up your active lifestyle and work all your stresses away in the on-site fitness center. When you work up an appetite, head to the elegant dining room and indulge in delicious Mediterranean cuisine. Sip on a glass of local wine as you dine over candlelight and plan your next day of adventure.
Activate your hop-on/hop-off bus pass today. Uncover the secrets of ancient Rome with a visit to the ruins, let the art of Michelangelo move and inspire you, and even get a glimpse into Rome’s gladiator past at the Colosseum.
Rome Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Tour (48 hours) – all year
Visiting the capital of Italy has never been so easy and exciting! Get on CitySightseeing open top red bus and admire this wonderful city from another “higher” perspective! Onboard you will find an interesting commentary which will provide you with information about everything around you. Bus Line A gives you the opportunity to explore the main places of interest, like the Colosseum, the Vatican City and the Trevi Fountain.
Continue making use of your hop-on/hop-off bus pass. Hop off at Saint Peter’s Basilica and spend some time in Vatican City. Make use of your early entrance admission to the Vatican Museums; discover the iconic masterpieces that line its walls and follow the exhibits until you reach the museum’s show stopper: Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling.
If you haven’t already, you’ll want stop by Rome’s Trevi fountain. legend has it if you throw a coin into the fountain, you are guaranteed a return trip – toss one in and find out!
Exclusive Early Entrance to Sistine Chapel & Vatican Museums
Do not miss this chance to beat the crowds and enter into the Sistine Chapel as a VIP! Discover the Sistine Chapel in intimate fashion through an Exclusive Partners Entrance, and be part of the first group in the museum, accompanied by a map and audio-guide. This privileged access will get you into the Sistine Chapel 15 minutes before the other tour groups, and 1 hour and 15 minutes before the general public! Admire Michelangelo’s masterpiece, and with the aid of your pre-recorded audio guide, you’ll be free to explore the Vatican Museum at your own pace. Spend as long as you’d like; the tour ends on your own time, in the Vatican Museums. This special tour also includes a fantastic souvenir DVD, “Art and Faith,” with a full description of Vatican City.
In accordance with your flight, enjoy a transfer from your hotel to Rome Airport (FCO).
Transfer to Rome airport (FCO)
Fly home!
