9 Days Private Tour of Venice Florence and Rome

A nine-day adventure through Italy’s most iconic cities—Venice, Florence, and Rome—offers a blend of history, art, and vibrant local life. For about $5,498 per person, you’ll enjoy private guides, seamless transportation, and carefully selected boutique hotels, making this a luxurious yet authentic experience. The tour is designed to be flexible, with the option to customize, which means you can tailor it to your own interests.

What we especially appreciate about this trip is the balance of guided discovery and free time—allowing you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. The inclusion of high-speed train travel adds a touch of comfort and efficiency, whisking you between cities. Two things stand out: the carefully curated city tours that highlight hidden corners alongside famous sights, and the professional guides who bring each city’s stories alive.

One possible consideration: the price can seem steep, but it covers first-class train tickets, private transport, entrance fees, and boutique accommodations—factors that add convenience and comfort. If you’re someone who values local insights, seamless logistics, and a private, personalized experience, this tour will suit you beautifully.

This trip best suits travelers who love art, history, and authentic city scenes, and who prefer the comfort of private guides and transportation. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to Italy, you’ll find this combination of luxury and local flavor appealing.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Fully customizable itinerary with your own guides, drivers, and hotels.
• Authentic experiences: Explore hidden streets, local markets, and lesser-known stories beyond tourist spots.
• Comfort-focused: Private transportation, high-speed train travel, boutique 4-star hotels.
• Rich cultural highlights: From Venice’s canals to Florence’s Renaissance art and Rome’s ancient monuments.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, engaging guides who bring each city’s history to life.
• Efficient schedule: Well-paced with a mix of guided tours and free time, maximizing your experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tour

Venice: The City of Canals and Hidden Corners

Your journey begins in Venice, a city built on water. Upon arrival, a private driver and water-taxi transfer will whisk you from the airport to your hotel. This seamless start means no stress, allowing you to relax and admire your first views of Venice’s unique architecture.

The next day, you’ll meet your guide for a thoughtfully curated 2-hour walking tour. This isn’t just a stroll through the main sights but a chance to explore Venice’s quieter streets, peaceful canals, and secret stories. We love the way the tour includes spots like the Rialto Bridge and the fish market, but also ventures into areas visitors often overlook—revealing Venice’s true character.

You’ll visit St. Mark’s Basilica to see the dazzling Pala D’Oro altar and climb up to Loggia dei Cavalli for panoramic views of Piazza San Marco. These moments capture Venice’s blend of stunning architecture and vibrant life. One reviewer highlights the tour’s insightfulness, noting that the stops are carefully chosen to give a real “taste of Venice,” beyond the usual tourist spots.

Florence: The Heart of Renaissance Art

In the afternoon of Day 3, your private driver will transfer you to the train station for your high-speed journey to Florence. Traveling in Premium Class ensures your comfort, and the two-hour ride gets you swiftly to Italy’s Renaissance birthplace.

Once in Florence, a private driver will take you to your hotel. The evening is yours for a leisurely start. The next day, your guided tour explores the Duomo, including the Baptistery and the Piazza del Duomo. The highlight? The ticket to the Grande Museo del Duomo, which grants access to Michelangelo’s David in Galleria dell’Accademia and other masterpieces—an opportunity to see some of Italy’s most treasured art.

Walking through Florence’s main square, Piazza della Signoria, you’ll witness iconic statues and palaces, passing through historic streets like Via Tornabuoni, famous for its boutique shops. The tour also includes a visit to the Oltrarno district, where Michelangelo’s early work and artisan shops reveal Florence’s craft heritage.

Many travelers rave about the guides’ knowledge, with one reviewer describing them as “experts and a pleasure to be with,” appreciating their ability to blend storytelling with the city’s tangible charm.

Free Day in Florence

Day 5 offers a chance to wander at your own pace. A recommended stop is the Market Centrale, where you can sample local foods and observe daily life. This is a good way to experience Florence beyond the museums and bustling squares.

Rome: The Eternal City’s Ancient and Artistic Marvels

On Day 6, after breakfast, you’ll leave Florence by private transfer to Rome’s train station, then check into your central hotel. Your afternoon guided tour hits all the big-ticket sites: the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. These landmarks are symbols of Rome’s grandeur, but the real value is in the guides’ stories about their history and architecture.

The Pantheon, with its extraordinary dome, gets special mention. A reviewer highlights the “architectural wonder” of this ancient temple, emphasizing how knowledgeable guides help you appreciate its engineering marvels and artistry.

Exploring Ancient Rome

The next day is dedicated to the Roman Forum and Colosseum—two must-see sites. The Forum’s columns and ruins tell stories of Roman political life, while the Colosseum is an unmistakable symbol of gladiatorial combat and imperial power. The guided walk allows you to appreciate the grandeur and complexity of ancient Rome’s architecture and history.

Vatican Highlights: Michelangelo, Raphael, and Bernini

Day 8 is a highlight, with visits to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. The tour includes the private apartments of Julius II, the Gallery of Maps, and Michelangelo’s frescoes. You’ll have time to admire the Pieta and Bernini’s grand Papal Canopy inside St. Peter’s. The guides’ expertise shines here—many reviews mention how guides bring the Vatican’s art and history alive, making Michelangelo’s frescoes more meaningful.

Departure and Reflection

On the final day, your driver will take you to the airport, marking the end of a well-paced, immersive journey. Many travelers comment on how well-organized and smooth the logistics are, allowing them to focus on enjoying Italy’s treasures.

What Sets This Tour Apart? Why It’s Worth Considering

While the price point might seem high, it includes boutique 4-star accommodations, high-speed train tickets in Premium Class, private transportation, and all entrance fees—factors that make for a stress-free trip. The private guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and storytelling, which can turn a sightseeing tour into a meaningful experience rather than just ticking boxes.

The focus on authentic experiences—such as exploring quieter neighborhoods and local artisan shops—sets this tour apart from more generic group trips. The flexibility to customize your itinerary is a bonus, especially if you want to spend more time in specific places or skip a planned activity.

However, it’s important to remember that this tour is non-refundable, and the deposits are non-refundable too. For travelers who prefer flexibility or are wary of upfront commitments, this might be a consideration.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited to travelers who appreciate private guided tours, want to visit major cultural sights with the benefit of expert storytelling, and enjoy luxury accommodations. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a well-organized, comfortable trip that balances guided discovery with free time to explore independently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included throughout the trip?
Yes. Your private driver and high-speed trains in Premium Class are included, making the journey between cities smooth and comfortable.

Are entrance fees included?
Most major sights like St. Mark’s Basilica, Galleria dell’Accademia, Roman Forum, Colosseum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica are included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The program is offered as is or can be tailored to your interests and pace.

What kind of hotels will I stay in?
The tour includes boutique 4-star accommodations in each city, chosen for comfort and charm.

What is the typical group size?
This is a fully private tour, so only your group will participate—perfect for personalized attention.

Is breakfast included?
Yes, breakfast is served all eight mornings of the trip.

What about tips and personal expenses?
Tips and personal expenditures are not included, so budget accordingly.

Can I start the tour at a different time?
Confirmation depends on availability, but standard start time is 10:00 pm at Marco Polo Airport in Venice.

Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should check specific hotel and site accessibility.

Final Thoughts

For travelers craving a seamless, luxurious way to experience Italy’s highlights, this private 9-day tour offers a compelling package. The combination of expert guides, private transportation, and carefully chosen sights ensures that you’re not just ticking off landmarks but engaging with the art, history, and everyday life of Venice, Florence, and Rome.

The tour’s balance of guided discovery and free time makes it flexible enough for personalized exploration. You’ll love the stunning views, the stories behind the masterpieces, and the comfort of traveling in style—without sacrificing authenticity. While the cost is not insignificant, the convenience and quality of experience provide real value for those who want a well-organized and enriching Italian adventure.

If your ideal trip involves private guides, authentic city experiences, and a touch of luxury, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for first-time visitors who want to see the highlights with expert insights, as well as seasoned travelers who appreciate comfort and personalized attention.

This tour offers a fine balance of professionalism, intimacy, and cultural richness—making it a smart investment for a memorable Italian vacation.