Well organised fun from Venice to Rome

Italy | May 21 - Jun 3, 2025

Our tour of Italy was spectacular, expertly managed by our local specialist Giulia. We travelled across the northern half of the country seamlessly, with easy-to-follow instructions for trains, transfers and car hire.
Our hotel in Venice was quiet, despite being just off the main thoroughfare. The hidden Venice private tour was great, with good food and wine. We returned to one of the osterias for a meal another day, our guide Marta giving us some great tips for local eateries.
Bologna was fun, more great food and wine, and the timely chance to participate in some local sporting events.
Late May was an ideal time to drive around Tuscany, some tourist crowds but not yet peak season. We loved our pasta cooking class at a cheese farm, followed by ... more great food and wine. Found several hidden gems of food shops, restaurants, and handmade goods away from the main tourist trodden streets in several of the towns.
Finished in Rome, managed to see the end of the Giro d'Italia, enjoyed many of the busy tourist sites, many of which were free on the first Sunday of the month. Our small group tours of the Vatican and Catacombs ended up being private tours which allowed our guides to customise the itineraries for our interests.

Hotel Review

Ca' Pozzo Inn

Venice

Quiet despite being a stones throw from the main thoroughfare through the city. The staff were helpful and friendly. Breakfasts were great.

Authenticity & Character

Secure courtyard accessed through a covered alleyway (sotoportego).

Location

A moderate walk from many of the sites. A waterbus stop is close by.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Hidden Venice and cicchetti experience

Italy

Our guide Marta took us through several streets off the main tourist path and we saw several of the quirkier sites of Venice. Food and wine were sampled at several great osterias. We got some great tips on eateries where the food was delicious and the prices reasonable.