6-Day Venice, Garda & Northern Italy Small-Group Tour from Rome

An Engaging Journey Through Northern Italy: 6-Day Small-Group Tour from Rome

Imagine leaving the bustling streets of Rome and stepping into the elegant world of Northern Italy’s Renaissance cities, scenic lakes, and charming villages—all in just six days. This small-group tour, offered at around $2,758 per person, promises a well-balanced mix of art, food, and stunning scenery. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll visit iconic sites like Venice’s canals, Bologna’s porticoes, Verona’s Roman ruins, and Lake Garda’s shimmering waters.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines authentic local flavor with the convenience of a well-organized itinerary. The inclusion of a local guide in Venice for a two-hour walking tour and entry to Villa Pisani really enhances the experience, offering insights you’d miss on your own. Plus, the opportunity to taste regional wines like prosecco and grappa adds a delicious, memorable touch.

A consideration to keep in mind is the tour’s pace. With multiple stops each day, you’ll be on the move quite a bit. If you prefer more leisurely, in-depth explorations of each city, this might feel a bit rushed at times. However, if you’re eager to see a broad swath of Northern Italy in a manageable timeframe, this tour hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Northern Italy without the hassle of planning each leg themselves. It’s perfect if you enjoy small groups, expert guides, and a mix of guided and free time—plus, if you’re eager to indulge in Italy’s famed cuisine and wines along the way.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary covers Venice, Bologna, Verona, Lake Garda, and more within six days.
• Small group size (maximum 16 travelers) ensures a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Expert-led guided tours in Venice and other key sites provide authentic insights.
• Taste of regional cuisine and wines, including optional tastings of prosecco and grappa.
• Comfortable transportation in a luxury mini-coach with a driver and guide.
• Accommodation ranges from 3 to 4-star hotels, with breakfast included each morning.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect Each Day

Day 1: From Rome to Orvieto and Bologna

Leaving behind Rome’s hustle, you’ll head to Orvieto, a town that looks like a fairy tale with its colorfully decorated cathedral and nearly traffic-free streets. The highlight? The Parco Naturale Le Balze, a landscape that inspired Leonardo da Vinci, with towering rock formations and sweeping views. You might enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace.

Following that, a scenic drive takes you to Piantravigne for a traditional Italian lunch—here, you get your first taste of authentic regional flavors. Afterward, the journey continues to Bologna, your home for the night. Known for its porticos, medieval towers, and vibrant university scene, Bologna offers an inviting first taste of Renaissance Italy. We loved the way the city’s architecture creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for wandering and sampling delicious Ragu alla Bolognese.

Day 2: Ravenna’s Mosaics and Bologna’s Renaissance Charm

The morning begins with an optional trip to Ravenna, a treasure trove of mosaic masterpieces and UNESCO-listed sites. This is a city where early Christian and Byzantine architecture combine to create visual marvels, and it’s also where Dante is laid to rest.

In the afternoon, you’ll return to Bologna, which during the Renaissance was an art and intellectual hub. Spend your time exploring the kilometers-long UNESCO porticos, visiting the ancient university (the oldest in the Western world), or simply indulging in local delicacies like tortellini or mortadella. One reviewer noted the convenience of having a driver and guide, which made the day very smooth, allowing for maximum exploration.

Day 3: Nature and Medieval Towns

Today blends nature with history. First, optional boat trips along the River Po give you a chance to spot migratory birds and enjoy the wetlands’ tranquility. The Po is Italy’s longest river, and its lush surroundings are a highlight for nature lovers.

Next, the tour heads to Este, a town with a history over 3,000 years. You can stroll along ancient city walls or visit the medieval castle, enjoying a quiet moment away from the crowds.

In the late afternoon, you arrive in Venice, your home for the next two nights. As night falls, Venice transforms—its ghost stories and quiet canals create a magical atmosphere when the day-trippers have left.

Day 4: Exploring Venice

Your full day in Venice kicks off with an included guided walking tour of the city’s iconic sights—Piazza San Marco, the Basilica, and the Grand Canal. We found the guide’s insights brought Venice’s history alive, making the city’s artistic and architectural grandeur more meaningful.

The rest of the day is yours to soak it all in—people-watching in piazzas, exploring galleries, or enjoying a gondola ride (not included but highly recommended). You might find yourself just wandering the labyrinth of alleys and bridges, discovering unexpected views and local shops. Venice’s charm is in its details, from tiny bridges to artisan workshops.

Day 5: Villas, Prosecco, and Mountain Views

First stop is the Villa Pisani, an ornate late Baroque building once owned by Napoleon’s family, offering a peek into aristocratic life and art exhibitions. Then, the tour takes you to Valdobbiadene, the heartland of Prosecco production. Tasting the freshest prosecco here is a highlight—an effervescent reminder of Italy’s wine craftsmanship.

Next, you visit Bassano del Grappa, famous for its distinctive Grappa. You might choose to sample this iconic spirit or simply admire the medieval bridge and castle. The town’s blend of history and liquors makes for an interesting contrast.

Finally, you arrive in Padua, believed to be Italy’s oldest city. It’s a place where science and religion intertwine—St. Anthony’s tomb and the Renaissance scientific discoveries create a lively yet contemplative atmosphere.

Day 6: Romantic Verona and Lake Garda

Your last day begins in Verona, home to the legendary Juliet’s balcony and a Roman amphitheater. We loved how the city’s romantic legend and ancient ruins coexist, making Verona a perfect wrap-up for this journey.

Next, you’ll spend some time at Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, famed for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic mountain scenery. It’s been a favorite spot for artists and poets for centuries.

The final stop is Erbusco, where you might indulge in a final tasting of regional wines or just enjoy the lakeside views. The tour concludes in Milan, giving you a chance to explore or rest before your onward travels.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Details

This tour is packed with authentic moments — from tasting regional wines like prosecco and grappa to wandering through medieval towns and Renaissance cities. The small-group format ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and guides like Marco or Laura are praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making each site come alive with stories.

Transportation is in a luxury mini-coach, allowing for comfortable travel between destinations. The timing is well-structured, balancing guided activities with free time—perfect for those who like a mix of structure and spontaneity. Keep in mind, you’ll be moving fairly quickly, with each day packed with stops, so patience and a sense of adventure are key.

Accommodation is in 3- or 4-star hotels, with breakfast included. This provides a good base for exploring each city without feeling rushed or overly hotel-bound.

What the Tour Offers in Value

At over $2,750, this tour offers a carefully curated journey through Northern Italy’s highlights, with entrance fees to Villa Pisani included and guided experiences in Venice. The focus on regional cuisine and wine tastings adds value that a self-guided trip might overlook. The small group size from 8 to 16 travelers means more personalized attention and the chance to bond with fellow travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy art, history, and authentic local flavors, this tour is a dream come true. It’s perfect for travelers who value guided insight combined with free time to explore. The scenic stops and cultural encounters make it especially suitable for those eager to see a broad artistic and culinary spectrum of Northern Italy in a manageable, well-organized package.

It might be less ideal for those seeking a very leisurely pace or in-depth exploration of a single city, as the itinerary moves briskly. But for the first-time visitor eager to get a comprehensive taste of Italy’s north, this offers an excellent overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but children under 18 are not permitted, likely due to the nature of the activities and the focus on cultural sites.

How much free time will I have?
You’ll have ample free time in cities like Bologna, Venice, and Verona to explore independently, browse shops, or relax at a café.

Are meals included?
No, meals and refreshments are not included, but breakfast is provided each morning in your hotel, and you can enjoy local eateries at each stop.

What are the transportation arrangements?
Travel is in a luxury mini-coach with a driver and guide, ensuring comfortable and efficient transfers between locations.

Can I join optional activities?
Yes, options like gondola rides, prosecco tastings, and grappa tastings are available but not included in the base price.

How many people will be on the tour?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

In The Sum Up

This 6-day small-group tour of Northern Italy offers a balanced blend of culture, scenery, and culinary delights. The well-planned itinerary ensures you see some of Italy’s most iconic sites while enjoying the personal touch of expert guides. The inclusion of wine tastings, guided visits, and comfortable transport makes it a fantastic value for travelers eager for a broad yet immersive experience.

Designed for those who love art, history, and authentic flavors, it’s especially suited for first-time visitors wanting a snapshot of Italy’s northern treasures without the stress of planning. The small-group format helps foster a friendly, flexible atmosphere, perfect for sharing memorable moments with like-minded adventurers.

Whether you’re marveling at the mosaics in Ravenna, wandering Venice’s enchanting alleys, or sipping prosecco in rolling vineyards, this tour promises a memorable, diverse slice of Italy that will leave you stunned and satisfied—and maybe a little stuffed with pasta too.

Note: Always check current availability and conditions, and consider your travel style when choosing a tour. This experience balances guided insights with free exploration, making it a good pick for curious, active travelers who appreciate a touch of comfort and authenticity.