Journeys: Northern Italy, Venice to Florence
Journeys: Northern Italy, Venice to Florence
Journeys: Northern Italy, Venice to Florence
7 Days Starting in Venice and ending in Florence
Visiting: Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence
Tour operator:
Tour code:
26249
Age range:
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Connect with stunning landscapes, rich Italian heritage and delicious food on this 7-day journey through northern Italy. Experience the iconic canals and historic architecture of Venice and soak in the picturesque beauty of the coastal villages of Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera. Visit the birthplace of the Renaissance–Florence, a city steeped in art and art history.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal
Accommodation Name: Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal
Arrive at any time and meet your fellow travellers at a welcome meeting. After an optional group dinner, join the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) for an evening walk through the city to experience the beauty of Venice under the soft glow of twilight.
Please make your own way to the joining hotel.
Additional Information: Please make every effort to arrive on time for this important welcome meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your Chief Experience Officer will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up.
ACTIVITY: The adventure begins tonight. Feel free to explore before your welcome meeting, but make sure you’re back in time to meet the group. Check for the meeting time on the welcome note at the hotel. After introductions, your CEO will review the details of your tour. Please note that normal check-in times apply at our start hotels, but you can usually store your luggage for the day if you arrive early.
ACTIVITY: Set off with your CEO on an evening orientation walk to get your bearings and to see the gorgeous city all lit up at night. Hop on and off the local water taxis, called "vaporettos," as you navigate Venice's picturesque canals and waterways. Truly a city like nowhere on earth, the best way to explore it is on foot and from the water.
Day 2: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal
Accommodation Name: Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Experience another side of Venice on a visit to nearby Murano Island. Walk through the town’s charming streets and hear stories about Murano’s rise as a glassmaking hub during the Renaissance. Watch master glass blowers transform molten glass into intricate pieces, using traditional techniques and hear from a local expert about how this traditional craftwork has spanned generations and become part of the cultural identity of the Venetian islands. Back in Venice, spend the afternoon exploring on your own. Perhaps visit the Guggenheim Museum, indulge in a Venetian food tour, find a quaint cafe on the Grand Canal or enjoy a Venetian gondola ride.
ACTIVITY: Experience the enchanting island of Murano on a private water taxi tour with a local expert. This excursion offers a unique glimpse into the rich history and artisanal traditions of Venice. Witness the intricate art of glassblowing in Murano. Visit an authentic workshop and hear from a local expert about the craft of traditional glassblowing and its significance to Murano’s cultural heritage. Gain an understanding of the craft’s history and ancient techniques, which have been featured in the National Geographic Magazine article “Made in Italy: Venice.” These traditional craftworks have spanned generations and have become part of the cultural identity of the islands. Enjoy the serene beauty of this iconic island, away from the crowds.
FREE TIME: Admire great Renaissance works of art at the Accademia or the Scuola di San Rocco, or visit the Peggy Guggenheim Gallery for more contemporary pieces.
Day 3: Venice/Cinque Terre
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel Firenze e Continentale La Spezia
Accommodation Name: Hotel Firenze e Continentale La Spezia
Meals Included: Breakfast
Set off from Venice on a drive through the stunning landscapes of northern Italy to La Spezia, gateway to the spectacular Cinque Terre. From here, hop on a train to the seaside village of Monterosso al Mare, one of the area’s 5 villages. Visit the town before choosing how best to continue exploring. Those seeking a more active option can join a local guide for an included moderate hike from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, following a trail along terraced landscapes and charming villages. Alternatively, continue exploring the coastal villages by train with your CEO who will provide additional insight into the region throughout your journey. Return to La Spezia and enjoy an evening exploring on your own.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT: Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
ACTIVITY: Choose to explore the stunning area of Cinque Terre either on foot or by train. Those looking to hike will walk from the village of Monterosso to Vernazza along with a with local guide. This trail is part of the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) and it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The path winds through terraced landscapes and charming villages, providing opportunities to learn about local history, culture, and flora. The hike concludes in the picturesque village of Vernazza, known for its colorful houses and vibrant harbor. The elevation gan and loss is approximately 230m.
Alternatively, join your CEO to explore Cinque Terre's stunning landscapes and picturesque villages by train before returning to the hotel in the evening.
Day 4: Cinque Terre/Florence
Location: Cinque Terre
Accommodation: Diplomat Hotel Florence
Accommodation Name: Diplomat Hotel Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy the morning discovering Cinque Terre on your own or join your CEO on a visit to Portovenere, a charming seaside village with colourful houses and sparkling blue waters. Later, travel south to Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region. Walk through the lively and historic streets with the CEO, stopping for an aperitivo experience with a light dinner at a local bar. After, enjoy an evening stroll back to the hotel, taking in the beauty of the city’s architecture and monuments lit up at night.
FREE TIME: MORNING Enjoy a free morning in La Spezia to explore the city or take a short trip to the village of Portovenere.
TRANSPORT: Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY: Take a break: sip a pre-dinner drink and snack on some Italian specialties at a local bar.
Day 5: Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Diplomat Hotel Florence
Accommodation Name: Diplomat Hotel Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Set off on a guided tour of Florence, a city renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant history. This walking experience, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Renaissance. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Il Duomo, which took more than 100 years to build. Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Learn about the city's illustrious past, from the powerful Medici family to its world-renowned artists. Afterward, continue to a delightful market, to explore vibrant stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses and cured meats. Savor the flavors of traditional Tuscan cuisine as you sample local products, including the renowned Pecorino cheese. This enriching experience offers a true taste of Florence's culinary heritage and will serve as a light lunch. Enjoy the rest of the day with free time to explore Florence’s many plazas and world-class museums.
Il Duomo is viewed from the outside, admission inside is not included on the walking tour.
FREE TIME: AFTERNOON There is so much of Florence to explore – its famous museums, galleries, cathedrals, and shops.
ACTIVITY: Enjoy the local specialities on this CEO-led market and food tour. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells, and enjoy every moment.
ACTIVITY: Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Florence on a guided tour through its iconic streets and landmarks. This immersive experience, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Renaissance. Marvel at the architectural splendor of the Duomo, explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Learn about the city's illustrious past, from its Medici rulers to its world-renowned artists.
Day 6: Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Diplomat Hotel Florence
Accommodation Name: Diplomat Hotel Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take advantage of a free day in Florence to pursue whatever your interests may be. Perhaps visit the Galleria dell'Accademia, the Uffizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace or the Medici Chapels (note that some of the more popular attractions in Florence require pre-booking). Or explore the city on foot, stopping at cafes and gelato shops along the way. After an optional dinner out with the group, set off to the Piazzale Michelangelo and enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Florence, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the picturesque sunset.
FREE TIME: FULL DAY Take advantage of a free day to discover the best of everything that Florence has to offer.
ACTIVITY: Cross through the centre of the city and over the Arno. Climb to the top of the hill and check out the vista over the river from Piazzale Michelangelo. It's worth every step!
Day 7: Florence
Location: Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart at any time.
ACTIVITY: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotels (6 nts). -
Meals
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner -
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Murano Island Glass Blowing Experience with a Local Expert, Venice
Your Foodie Moment: Florence Market and Food Tour, Florence
Your Discover Moment: Florence -
Evening orientation walk in Venice including vaporetto water taxis
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Hike from village-to-village in Cinque Terre or explore by train
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Orientation walk of Florence and aperitivo dinner experience
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Guided walking tour of Florence
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Evening walk to Piazzale Michaelangelo
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All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
Accommodation
Hotels (6 nts).
Transport
Train, private minivan/bus, boat, walking.
Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
Group Size
Max 16, Avg 12.
Mode of Transport
Train, private minivan/bus, boat, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Check out our Q&As
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What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Murano Island Glass Blowing Experience with a Local Expert, Venice
Your Foodie Moment: Florence Market and Food Tour, Florence
Your Discover Moment: Florence. Evening orientation walk in Venice including vaporetto water taxis. Hike from village-to-village in Cinque Terre or explore by train. Orientation walk of Florence and aperitivo dinner experience. Guided walking tour of Florence. Evening walk to Piazzale Michaelangelo. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities. -
Highlights
Gaze in awe at Renaissance treasures in the stunning cities of iconic Venice and Florence, Witness traditional glass blowing in Murano as local artisans showcase this historic art form, Take in the mesmerizing beauty of the Cinque Terre, an iconic site on the Italian Riviera’s coastline, Savor the flavors and aromas of delicious local foods on a tour of Florence’s local markets then marvel at the panoramic views from Piazzale Michelangelo.
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Group Size Notes
Max 16, Avg 12.
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Meals Included
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner
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Transport
Train, private minivan/bus, boat, walking.
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Accommodation
Hotels (6 nts).
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My Own Room
Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops
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Joining Instructions
For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.
From Venice airport (VCE), you can reach the city centre in a few ways. You can take a direct bus, either ‘ATVO Airport Shuttle’ or the ‘ACTV Airport Line’. Alternatively, you can take a boat (Alilaguna Lines) or a private water taxi.
To arrange an arrival or departure transfer, we recommend you book through our preferred transfer provider - HolidayTaxis
We advise that you book both your arrival and departure transfers in advance. Please make sure you have the following details before booking:
- Flight number - Flight Arrival Time and Date
- Flight Departure Time and Date
- Passenger's Name
- Number of Passengers
- Email
- Valid Mobile Telephone Number
- Drop off and/or Pick Up Address
Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.
Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don’t see a note, please ask reception for details!
If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day. -
Emergency Contact
Should you need to contact us during a situation of dire need, it is best to first call either the G Adventures Local Representative (if one is listed below) or our G Adventures Local Office. If for any reason you do not receive an immediate answer, please leave a detailed message and contact information, so they may return your call and assist you as soon as possible.
EMERGENCY CONTACT NUMBERS
G Adventures Office London, United Kingdom
During Office hours (Weekdays, 9am-5:30pm Local Time)
+44 20 7243 9870
For absolute emergencies after office hours please contact: +441858378000
If you are unable for any reason to contact our local office, please call the numbers listed below which will connect you directly with our Sales team who will happily assist you. Hours of operation by region can be found here.
Toll-free, North America only: 1 888 800 4100
Calls from UK: 0344 272 0000
Calls from Germany: 0800 365 1000
Calls from Australia: 1300 796 618
Calls from New Zealand: 0800 333 307
Outside North America, Australia, New Zealand, Germany and the UK: +1 416 260 0999 -
Packing List
Conservative Dress:
• Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)
• Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)
Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket
Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
Light Hiking:
• Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
• Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)
Smart Dress:
• Smart outfit (For evenings out)
Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear -
Visas and Entry Requirements
All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent. It is your own responsibility to have the correct travel documentation. Visa requirements for your trip will vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. We keep the following information up to date as far as possible, but rules do change and sometimes without warning. While we provide the following information in good faith, it is vital that you check the information yourself and understand that you are fully responsible for your own visa requirements.
Visa information specific to your destination and nationality can be found in our Important Pre-Departure Information page here
For other nationalities, travelling in Europe has been simplified with the introduction of the Schengen visa. As a visitor to the Schengen area (Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Greece, Norway, Denmark, Iceland, Portugal, Finland, Italy, Spain, France, Luxembourg, Sweden, Czech Republic, Hungary, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia and Switzerland) you will enjoy the many advantages of this unified visa system. Generally speaking with a Schengen visa, you may enter one Schengen country and travel freely throughout the Schengen region during the validity of your visa. There are limited border controls at Schengen borders, if any at all.
Please note that the UK and Ireland are NOT part of the Schengen agreement.
A Schengen visa is applied for at the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country in which you will be spending the most nights on your trip to the Schengen space. If you are only visiting one country on your trip then you apply for your visa at the Consulate of this Schengen country.
VENICE ACCESS FEE:
On April 25th 2024, Venice introduced a new tourist entry requirement. Travellers who are only visiting Venice for the day are charged a tourist fee imposed by the city.
We kindly request that you visit the Venice Access Fee Homepage to complete the form prior to travel. Completing this form stating you are staying overnight will exempt you from this fee. Please check the specific dates on the link above - if your departure is affected, please follow the steps below:
- If your tour STARTS in Venice (this includes arriving into Venice prior to tour start date) you will need to complete this form prior to arrival.
- If your tour TRAVELS THROUGH Venice, your CEO will assist with this requirement on tour.
- If your tour FINISHES in Venice (this includes staying in Venice after the tour finish date), your CEO will assist with this requirement on tour.
- Once you have clicked on the above link, you will find a specified announcement with the concerned dates. Double-check if your stay in Venice happens to fall into one of these dates.
- Click on Exemptions.
- Choose "I am a guest of an accommodation facility located in the municipality of Venice".
- Continue to Request Exemption.
- Put the start and end date of your Venice stay.
- Fill all the requested information of the "Main Holder" - (which is you!). Read the privacy policy before going to the next step.
- Fill the Main Holders personal data (Name - Surname - Place of Birth - Date of Birth) as per passport.
- Enter your contact number.
- Double-check the data summary before confirming it and going into the next step.
- You will now have to make a toll-free call to the number displayed on the screen, using the same phone number you filled beforehand. The call does not require a response.
- Once you have successfully verified the telephone number, you can now download your voucher containing a specific QR code. -
Optional Activities
Venice
- Venice Food Tour
- Campanile San Marco Lookout (8EUR per person)
- Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Visit (17EUR per person)
- Gondola Ride (80EUR per group)
- Guggenheim Museum Visit (15EUR per person)
Piazza San Marco
- Saint Mark's Square and Basilica Visit (Free)
Portovenere
- Visit Portovenere
Gallerie dell'Accademia
- Galleria dell'Accademia Visit (20EUR per person)
Florence
- Uffizi Gallery Visit (25EUR per person)
- Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (17.75EUR per person)
- Medici Chapels Visit (9-32EUR per person) -
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
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International Flights
Check-in times and baggage allowances
estrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport. -
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
G Adventures was established in 1990
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Most of our trips do not have a single supplement. This means that the accommodation is on a twin share basis and, if travelling on your own, you will be sharing a room with another G Adventures traveller of the same sex. Some tours have an optional single supplement. An optional service that may be available is called "My Own Room". This service allows solo travellers to request their own room.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
It's extremely difficult if not impossible to join a tour after it has begun. It is possible to leave a tour early however you will be responsible for your own arrangements from the moment you decide to leave the tour. You would also be responsible for all costs associated with joining a tour late or leaving one early. If you feel this may be necessary, please consult us before you book.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
https://www.gadventures.com/travel-with-confidence/
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
https://www.gadventures.com/about-us/core-values/
Reviews of this operator
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Free Date Changes
G Adventures allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 0 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
G Adventures requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of g adventures charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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