Classic Italy: Rome & Florence

Begin your Italian getaway with complimentary airport lounge access before your flight to Rome. On arrival, you'll be met by a private driver who'll bring you to your stylish and contemporary hotel in the historic Rione Monti district, just a short walk from some of the city's most celebrated landmarks, including the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Imperial Fora. The nearby Cavour metro station provides easy access to the wider city, while the surrounding neighbourhood is known for its lively atmosphere, independent boutiques, cafés and traditional restaurants.

While you'll have plenty of time to explore at your own pace, we've included a private walking tour so you can get your bearings. Your expert guide will bring the rich heritage of the Vatican's wonders to life, taking in its artistic treasures and the gilded wonders of St. Peter's Basilica before heading further back in time with the Colosseum. Then, there are the Baroque flourishes of the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona's eclectic collection of distinctive architecture and the Renaissance beauty of Capitoline Hill's Michelangelo-designed palaces. Don't also forget to take some time out with the city's gastronomic indulgences, showcased in everything from humble eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants.

After breakfast, make your way to the station where you’ll board your First Class rail journey to Florence. You’ll arrive with plenty of time to explore this Renaissance gem where evocative narrow streets constantly surprise with stunning basilicas, world-class art galleries and grand medieval piazzas. Don’t miss out on the Galleria degli Uffizi and its Renaissance classics or the city’s cathedral whose intricately detailed pink, white and green marble façade is capped by a giant red-tiled dome. Your base here is the elegant Hotel Calzaiuoli, which enjoys a prime setting between the Duomo and Palazzo Vecchio in the heart of the city's historic centre.

On your second day in Florence you’ll have the choice of two tours. The first is a guided walk, taking in the skyline views from the Piazzale del Michelangelo, Michelangelo’s David in the Accademia and the 15th-century cathedral, resplendent in a multi-coloured marble façade and a giant brick dome. Then, with front-of-line entry, your second option will bring you to the Renaissance masterpieces of the Uffizi Gallery – one of the world's greatest collections of art. A private driver will also take you out to Fiesole in the city’s verdant surrounds. Set on a hilltop, its pretty cathedral, Roman amphitheatre and historic villas boast spectacular views back to Florence.

Today you'll explore the Tuscan countryside with a private day trip. Your driver will bring you through rolling vineyards to reach Siena, a Gothic masterpiece of red brickwork. It’s famous for its giant piazzas, Palio horserace and the 200 years of artistry that went into its spectacular cathedral, dazzling with a great vaulted ceiling gilded with stars. You'll compare its grandeur to that of nearby Monteriggioni and its imposing hilltop walls before stopping at San Gimignano, a medieval town of giant brick towers. In between, you'll have a chance to taste some of the region's award-winning viticulture, sampling the local vernaccia – a deliciously dry white wine.

A last journey with a private driver, through the scenic Tuscan countryside, will see you to Pisa. If there's time, perhaps call into its leaning icon and brilliant white cathedral after wandering through the fading glory of its merchant district. There's also the chance to stop off at Lucca, a Renaissance city whose leafy piazzas are hidden behind imposingly historic walls. You'll then board your flight home.