- Overview
- Captured moments
- Day by day
- What's included
- Travel notes
- Not included
- Your questions answered
Italy comes alive each July as Venice celebrates Festa del Redentore, one of the country's oldest and most treasured festivals. This is more than an evening of spectacular fireworks. It's a centuries-old tradition that brings Venetians onto the water to celebrate together, transforming the lagoon into a floating festival of light, colour and community.
Our journey begins in Rome, where ancient monuments, lively piazzas and neighbourhood trattorias introduce us to the history, flavours and everyday traditions that have shaped Italy for centuries. From there, we travel north to Florence, where Renaissance masterpieces, rolling Tuscan landscapes and regional food and wine offer a slower pace and a deeper appreciation of Italian life.
In Venice, the atmosphere builds as the city prepares for Festa del Redentore. Historic canals, centuries of maritime heritage and local traditions culminate in one of Italy's most unforgettable celebrations, experienced from our exclusive dinner cruise on the Venetian Lagoon.
Our final days unfold beside Lake Garda, where elegant lakeside towns, mountain scenery and time to slow down provide a gentle contrast to the energy of the festival. It's a fitting conclusion to a journey that celebrates Italy through its history, traditions, landscapes and way of life.
Limited to just 12 travellers, allowing for a relaxed, personal experience.
Designed around the annual Festa del Redentore, this itinerary explores Italy through its history, landscapes and traditions. From the ancient monuments of Rome and the Renaissance treasures of Florence to the rolling hills of Tuscany, the canals of Venice and the shores of tranquil Lake Garda, each destination reveals a different side of the country.
Historic cities are balanced with time to slow down in the Tuscan countryside, cruise between picturesque lakeside towns and experience one of Venice's most treasured festivals. Together, they create an itinerary that combines Italy's cultural highlights with time to simply enjoy la dolce vita.
Every departure is timed for the height of the Italian summer, when long evenings, outdoor festivals and lakeside living are at their best. As with all seasonal travel, timings and the order of activities may occasionally change to reflect local events and ensure every experience takes place at the best possible time.
Itinerary
Day 01 | Rome
Date : 11/07/2027
First Impressions | La Dolce Vita Begins
  
Experiences
Neighbourhood food experience • Rome by night golf cart tour
Rome's neighbourhoods tell their story through food. Wandering between family-run trattorias, bustling piazzas and much-loved local favourites, we'll discover how everyday dishes, local traditions and generations of family recipes have shaped Roman life for centuries. Between tastings, conversations tell the story of the Eternal City just as vividly as its famous landmarks.
From the narrow streets of Rome's historic center to its elegant boulevards, our evening golf cart tour offers a unique perspective as we weave through lively piazzas, quiet backstreets and past beautifully illuminated landmarks. It's a relaxed and enjoyable introduction to the city's remarkable history, allowing us to cover more ground while avoiding the crowds and long walks.
As evening settles over Rome, there's time to soak up the atmosphere before we come together for the first of many memorable dinners.
Travel
Airport transfer
Meals
Rome food tastings • Group welcome dinner
Accommodation
Night 1 of 3 at a four star hotel next to the Pantheon, positioned in the heart of Rome's historic center, perfect for exploring the city's illuminated streets after dark.
Day 02 | Rome
Date : 12/07/2027
Ancient Rome | Echoes of an Empire
   
Experiences
Guided Colosseum experience • Artisan gelato workshop • Free time to explore
Our morning is dedicated to one of the world's most remarkable archaeological sites. Joined by a local expert, we'll step inside the Colosseum to uncover the engineering, spectacles and stories that transformed this extraordinary amphitheatre into the beating heart of Ancient Rome. Standing where gladiators, emperors and thousands of spectators once stood brings history vividly to life.
Inside a traditional Roman gelateria, we'll discover the secrets behind one of Italy's most beloved culinary traditions this afternoon. Guided by an expert, we'll create our own artisan gelato from scratch while learning how fresh, natural ingredients and time-honoured techniques produce the smooth texture and rich flavours that make authentic Italian gelato so distinctive. Naturally, there'll be plenty of tasting before taking our handmade creations with us.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy before we reunite this evening for dinner near the Spanish Steps, where one of Rome's most elegant neighbourhoods provides the backdrop for a relaxed evening together.
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch near the Trevi Fountain • Dinner near the Spanish Steps
Accommodation
Night 2 of 3 at a four star hotel next to the Pantheon, positioned in the heart of Rome's historic center, perfect for exploring the city's illuminated streets after dark.
Day 03 | Rome
Date : 13/07/2027
Vatican City | Art, Faith and Legacy
   
Experiences
Guided Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel • St. Peter's Basilica dome climb
We spend the day visiting the world's smallest country and home to one of the greatest collections of art, history and religious treasures. Joined by a local guide, we'll explore Vatican City and its galleries, chapels and courtyards, discovering the people, stories and masterpieces that have shaped this extraordinary place through the centuries.
Our guided visit continues inside the Vatican Museums, home to an incredible collection of masterpieces, before arriving at the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo's breathtaking ceiling frescoes. We'll enjoy an unhurried lunch nearby before resuming our guided tour.
Stepping inside the magnificent St. Peter's Basilica this afternoon, we'll learn about one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture created before climbing to the top of Michelangelo's famous dome, where panoramic views stretch across St. Peter's Square and the rooftops of Rome.
Dinner is near Piazza Navona this evening, one of Rome's most elegant squares, to celebrate our final night in the Italian capital.
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch in Vatican City • Dinner near Piazza Navona
Accommodation
Night 3 of 3 at a four star hotel next to the Pantheon, positioned in the heart of Rome's historic center, perfect for exploring the city's illuminated streets after dark.
Day 04 | Florence
Date : 14/07/2027
Renaissance Florence | The Cradle of Creativity
  
Experiences
Florence sightseeing • Duomo climb
A short journey by train brings us to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Although its historic center is wonderfully walkable, some of the city's most rewarding viewpoints and neighbourhoods lie beyond its medieval streets. Our sightseeing by golf cart offers a relaxed introduction, allowing us to cover more of the city before continuing on foot into its historic heart.
Back in the heart of the city, we'll join a guided visit to the magnificent Duomo, where climbing Brunelleschi's remarkable dome rewards us with breathtaking views across the city's terracotta rooftops and the surrounding Tuscan hills.
With the climb complete, the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy, whether exploring Florence independently or simply relaxing with a coffee in one of the city's beautiful piazzas.
This evening, we'll roll up our sleeves for a hands on pasta and tiramisu cooking workshop. Guided by local chefs, we'll prepare two of Italy's best loved dishes before sitting down to enjoy the meal we've created together, accompanied by excellent Tuscan wine.
Travel
1½ hour train to Florence
Meals
Breakfast • Pasta & tiramisu cooking experience
Accommodation
Night 1 of 2 at a four star hotel within easy walking distance of the Duomo, perfectly positioned for evening strolls through Florence's picturesque streets and piazzas.
Day 05 | Florence
Date : 15/07/2027
Tuscan Flavours | From Vineyards to Pisa
  
Experiences
Tuscan countryside discovery • Olive oil tasting • Regional wine tasting • Optional Leaning Tower climb
Leaving Florence behind, we journey west through the Pisan Hills, following a route that celebrates the flavours of Tuscany. Family wineries, olive groves and artisan producers introduce us to the countryside through its food as much as its landscapes, with opportunities to sample locally produced olive oil and regional wines while discovering the craftsmanship behind two of Tuscany's best-known products.
A long Tuscan lunch invites us to slow down and embrace one of Italy's simplest pleasures, sharing seasonal dishes, local wines and warm hospitality in the heart of the countryside before continuing towards Pisa.
Arriving as many of the day visitors begin to depart, we'll enjoy time to explore the Piazza dei Miracoli at a more relaxed pace. Those wishing to climb the Leaning Tower are welcome to do so, with included entry offering panoramic views across Pisa, while others may simply enjoy the atmosphere before we dine beside this remarkable landmark.
Travel
Return 1½ hour private transfer to Pisa
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner beneath the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Accommodation
Night 2 of 2 at a four star hotel within easy walking distance of the Duomo, perfectly positioned for evening strolls through Florence's picturesque streets and piazzas.
Day 06 | Venice
Date : 16/07/2027
A Floating City | Beyond the Canals
  
Experiences
Private water taxi • Murano glass demonstration • Guided orientation walk
A scenic train journey brings us to Venice, where our first glimpse of the city comes not from its streets, but from the water. Boarding a private water taxi, we'll cruise along the Grand Canal past elegant palazzos, historic churches and bustling waterfronts. It's a memorable introduction to a city where canals take the place of roads and every journey begins on the water.
From here, we'll cross the lagoon to Murano, where glassmakers have perfected their craft for more than seven centuries. During our private visit to a working workshop, we'll watch molten glass transformed into elegant pieces by master artisans using techniques that have been handed down through generations.
Returning to Venice, our guided orientation walk helps us get to know the city's unique layout before the Festa del Redentore celebrations begin in earnest. Along the way, we'll pass many of Venice's best-known landmarks, quieter backstreets and useful reference points, making it easy to continue exploring with confidence over the coming days.
Travel
2½ hour train to Venice
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner near St Mark's Square
Accommodation
Night 1 of 3 at a four star hotel overlooking the Grand Canal, just a short stroll from St Mark's Square and perfectly positioned for experiencing Venice after dark.
Day 07 | Venice
Date : 17/07/2027
Festa del Redentore | A Festival of Fireworks
  
Experiences
Guided St Mark's Basilica • Campanile climb • Votive Bridge • Festa del Redentore celebrations
Our day begins at the magnificent St Mark's Basilica, where glittering mosaics and centuries of Venetian history offer a quieter contrast to the festivities taking shape beyond its doors. Just steps away, St Mark's Campanile rewards us with sweeping views across Venice's rooftops, winding canals and the sparkling Venetian Lagoon, revealing the unique geography of a city unlike any other.
Thousands of Venetians make their way across the floating Votive Bridge to Giudecca Island, a temporary bridge opened each year as part of one of Venice's oldest traditions. We'll join the procession, wandering through the celebrations and experiencing the festival as Venetians do, rather than simply arriving for the evening's main event.
Boarding our festival dinner cruise, we'll join locals and visitors celebrating one of Venice's most cherished traditions. As the sun slips lower across the lagoon, thousands of boats decorated with paper lanterns and flowers gradually fill St Mark's Basin, creating an unforgettable atmosphere across the water. Over a leisurely Venetian dinner, anticipation builds until the night sky erupts in a spectacular forty-minute fireworks display above the city.
Meals
Breakfast • Festa del Redentore dinner cruise
Accommodation
Night 2 of 3 at a four star hotel overlooking the Grand Canal, just a short stroll from St Mark's Square and perfectly positioned for experiencing Venice after dark.
Day 08 | Venice
Date : 18/07/2027
Colours on the Canal | The Redentore Regattas
  
   
Experiences
Doge's Palace • Bridge of Sighs • Festa del Redentore regattas
A leisurely breakfast allows everyone to ease into the day before we step inside Doge's Palace. Beyond its magnificent architecture and celebrated artworks lies the political heart of the Venetian Republic, where centuries of power, diplomacy and ambition shaped one of Europe's great maritime states.
Crossing the Bridge of Sighs from the inside, we'll follow the final footsteps of prisoners as they passed from the palace's courtrooms into the New Prisons. It's a powerful reminder that behind Venice's beauty lay a justice system every bit as formidable as the republic itself.
Later this afternoon, we'll watch the historic Redentore regattas along the Giudecca Canal. From agile pupparini to elegant gondolas, skilled rowers compete in races that have formed part of the celebrations for generations, offering a completely different perspective on one of Venice's most cherished weekends.
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner
Accommodation
Night 3 of 3 at a four star hotel overlooking the Grand Canal, just a short stroll from St Mark's Square and perfectly positioned for experiencing Venice after dark.
Day 09 | Lake Garda
Date : 19/07/2027
The Art of Slowing Down | Lakeside Serenity
  
Experiences
Thermal spa afternoon • Balinese massage • Zerobody Floating Experience • Mud Scrub TreatmentÂ
Leaving Venice behind, we'll travel by train to the shores of Lake Garda before continuing to the beautiful peninsula of Sirmione, where naturally heated thermal waters have attracted visitors since Roman times.
The afternoon has been designed around complete relaxation, with three included treatments adding to the restorative experience:
Balinese Massage (50 minutes)
Zerobody Floating Experience (20 minutes)
Mud Scrub Treatment (25 minutes)
Relax in naturally heated mineral pools overlooking the lake, move between outdoor saunas and steam baths, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings at your own pace before your treatments begin.
With dinner overlooking the lake, there is nothing to do but slow down and enjoy one of Italy's finest thermal spa destinations.
Travel
1½ hour train to Lake Garda
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch • Dinner beside Lake Garda
Accommodation
Night 1 of 2 at a four star lakeside hotel in the heart of Sirmione's historic center, perfectly positioned for evening strolls along the shores of Lake Garda.
Day 10 | Lake Garda
Date : 20/07/2027
The Lake Between the Mountains | Shores to Explore
  
Experiences
Lakeside town hopping • Monte Baldo cable car • Panoramic Lake Garda views • Time to explore
Today we explore the lake itself, travelling between picturesque towns where medieval castles, colourful harbours, mountain scenery and elegant waterfronts each reveal a different side of Italy's largest lake.
Each stop offers time to enjoy its own character before we continue across the lake, whether that's wandering quiet lakeside streets, relaxing beside the waterfront or simply taking in the ever-changing scenery from the water.
One of our stops brings us to Malcesine, where medieval streets climb towards the foot of Monte Baldo. Here, we'll board the rotating cable car for a breathtaking ascent to 1,760 meters, where panoramic views stretch across Lake Garda and the surrounding Alps. It's a perspective few visitors ever forget. As the day draws to a close, we'll return to Sirmione for our farewell dinner overlooking the lake.
Meals
Breakfast • Lunch along the way • Farewell dinner beside Lake Garda
Accommodation
Night 2 of 2 at a four star lakeside hotel in the heart of Sirmione's historic center, perfectly positioned for evening strolls along the shores of Lake Garda.
Day 11 | Lake Garda
Date : 21/07/2027
Arrivederci | Farewell Italy
  
Our journey comes to a close this morning as we enjoy one final breakfast together beside Lake Garda.
Over the past eleven days, Italy has taken us from the ancient streets of Rome and the rolling hills of Tuscany to the celebrations of Venice's Festa del Redentore and the tranquil shores of Lake Garda. Each destination has offered its own history, traditions, flavours and landscapes, revealing the remarkable diversity that defines Italy from one region to the next.
We transfer to the airport for our onward journeys. As we part ways, we hope the memories we've shared continue to inspire new adventures for years to come.
Travel
1¾ hr transfer to Milan city or Milan Malpensa Airport
Meals
Breakfast
Rome experiences
- Guided neighbourhood tasting experience
- Rome by night golf cart tour
- Guided Colosseum experience
- Artisan gelato workshop
- Guided Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel experience
- St Peter's Basilica
- St Peter's Dome climb
Florence, Tuscany and Pisa experiences
- Florence sightseeing experience
- Guided Duomo climb
- Pasta and tiramisu cooking experience
- Journey through the Tuscan countryside
- Olive oil tasting
- Regional wine tasting
- Leaning Tower of Pisa climb
Venice experiences
- Private water taxi along the Grand Canal
- Murano glass demonstration
- Guided orientation walk
- Guided St Mark's Basilica experience
- St Mark's Campanile
- Votive Bridge crossing
- Festa del Redentore dinner cruise
- Festa del Redentore celebrations
- Doge's Palace
- Bridge of Sighs
- Redentore regatta experience
Lake Garda experiences
- Thermal spa experience
- Balinese massage
- Zerobody floating experience
- Mud Scrub treatment
- Lakeside town hopping by ferry
- Monte Baldo cable car
Food and dining
- 10 included breakfasts
- 7 included lunches
- 10 included dinners
- While many are shared experiences, selected evenings offer the flexibility to enjoy dinner independently if you prefer to discover somewhere of your own
- Shared experiences include:
- Group welcome dinner
- Traditional pasta and tiramisu cooking experience with Tuscan wine
- Festa del Redentore dinner cruise
- Dinner beside the Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Farewell dinner beside Lake Garda
- A selection of local restaurants showcasing regional cuisine and seasonal specialities
- Experiences ranging from Roman classics and Tuscan favourites to lakeside dining
Accommodation
- 3 nights in Rome
- 2 nights in Florence
- 3 nights in Venice
- 2 nights at Lake Garda
- Accommodation is minimum 4-star standard, with exceptional unrated properties chosen when they offer a more memorable experience
- All rooms are private and include en-suite bathrooms
Transport and logistics
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- High speed rail ticket included:
- Rome to Florence
- Florence to Venice
- Venice to Lake Garda
- Private transport between experiences and excursions included
- All entrance fees and logistical arrangements handled throughout
Guidance and support
- Fully guided throughout by a dedicated tour leader and knowledgeable local hosts
- Local insight and thoughtful guidance throughout the journey
- Seamless coordination throughout, allowing you to remain present in the experience
The Three Tenths promise
- Maximum 12 guests • Every journey is limited to twelve guests, or fewer
- Inclusive pricing • All gratuities for guides, transport and activities are included throughout
- No "optional" up-selling • Every experience is included because we believe it belongs in the journey
- Thoughtfully paced • Structure when it matters. Freedom when it doesn't
- Hand selected stays • Every stay is personally visited before it's included because where you stay shapes how you experience a destination
Arrival and departure days
- Airport transfers are included for all guests arriving on Day 1 and departing on the final day of the journey
- Arrival day is intentionally designed with flexibility in mind, allowing time to settle into the hotel, explore the surrounding neighbourhood, or simply pause before the journey begins
- Our first shared experience takes place around midday on Day 1, allowing guests arriving earlier in the day time to comfortably transfer from the airport and settle in before meeting the group
- Hotel check in is typically available from 3pm onwards. Guests arriving earlier may store luggage with the hotel prior to check in
- Your tour host will be waiting to welcome you at the hotel on arrival day, offering assistance with check in and luggage storage where needed, along with recommendations for exploring the surrounding neighbourhood before the journey begins
- On departure day, no activities are planned beyond breakfast, allowing flexibility for onward travel arrangements
- We recommend booking outbound flights departing from 2pm onwards on the final day to allow comfortable transfer time to Milan Malpensa Airport
Festival timing
- Festa del Redentore takes place on the third weekend of July each year, with celebrations extending across both Saturday evening and Sunday
- While the fireworks are the festival's most famous event, the atmosphere begins much earlier as decorated boats gather across the lagoon and locals come together to celebrate
- Sunday's traditional regattas continue the celebrations, offering a different perspective on one of Venice's most treasured annual festivals
- As with all public celebrations, exact timings may vary slightly each year to reflect the official festival program
What to expect
- This journey combines Italy's most iconic destinations with experiences that reveal the country's regional traditions, landscapes and way of life
- Several days include walking on uneven cobblestones, historic staircases and pedestrian streets where vehicle access is limited
- High speed rail allows us to travel comfortably between regions while enjoying Italy's changing scenery
- The climb to the top of Florence's Duomo involves approximately 460 steps with no lift available
- The itinerary balances guided experiences with free time, allowing opportunities to explore independently throughout the journey
Why July is the best time to go
- July brings long daylight hours, lively piazzas and outdoor dining across Italy
- Festa del Redentore takes place exclusively in July, offering the opportunity to experience one of Venice's most celebrated annual traditions
- Warm weather creates ideal conditions for exploring Italy's cities before enjoying the lakeside atmosphere of Lake Garda
- Summer also brings extended opening hours and a vibrant atmosphere throughout many of Italy's historic centers
Seasonal weather
- July is typically warm and sunny throughout Italy, with daytime temperatures generally ranging between 27°C and 34°C / 81°F to 93°F depending on the region
- Evenings are usually pleasant, particularly beside Lake Garda where temperatures are often slightly cooler
- Short summer showers are possible but are generally brief
- Lightweight clothing, comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are recommended throughout the journey
Visa requirements
- Visa and entry requirements vary depending on your nationality, passport, and country of residence
- Guests are responsible for ensuring they meet all passport, visa, transit, vaccination, and entry requirements for Italy
- We recommend checking official government travel advice and visa information well in advance of departure, as requirements can occasionally change without notice
- Italy may require visa applications, online pre registration, proof of onward travel, accommodation details, or minimum passport validity periods
- Your passport should generally have at least 6 months validity remaining from your date of arrival, have sufficient pages for entry and exit stamps, and generally be in good condition (unless otherwise stated by local authorities)
- Once your booking is confirmed, additional guidance and supporting travel information will be provided where relevant
- Official visa information for Italy can be found here
Practical considerations
- Comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended as several destinations feature uneven cobblestones, historic streets and staircases
- A moderate level of mobility is recommended due to walking distances, historic sites and the climb to Florence's Duomo
- Venice becomes exceptionally busy during Festa del Redentore, creating a lively and unforgettable atmosphere throughout the city
- The fireworks experience begins well before the display itself, allowing time to enjoy the unique atmosphere as boats gather across the lagoon
- Swimwear is required for your included thermal spa experience at Lake Garda
- Italy's summer sun can be strong, particularly in Rome and Florence, so a hat, sunscreen and reusable water bottle are recommended
- As with all journeys incorporating public festivals, transport and access arrangements may occasionally vary slightly to accommodate local event management
Flights and arrival
- International airfare to and from Italy: Multi city international airfare required
- Arrive: Rome (FCO)
- Depart: Milan (MXP)
Travel requirements
- Travel insurance (required for participation)
- Relevant visas where applicable (see Travel notes section)
Personal expenses and free time options
- Meals and drinks not specified in the itinerary
- Personal purchases and incidental expenses
- Optional activities during periods of free time
Absolutely. While we'll experience many of Italy's iconic landmarks, the journey is designed around moments that many visitors miss, from celebrating Festa del Redentore with the locals to cooking in Florence, relaxing beside Lake Garda and exploring handpicked lakeside towns. It's an itinerary that combines Italy's highlights with experiences that give each destination a deeper sense of place.
The climb to the top of Florence's Duomo involves around 460 narrow stone steps with no lift available. The effort is rewarded with spectacular views across Florence, but guests who are uncomfortable with heights or confined spaces may prefer to spend this time exploring the city at their own pace.
Yes, it's one of Venice's most anticipated weekends of the year. That's part of what makes it so special. Our itinerary is designed to make the most of the celebrations while balancing the excitement with quieter experiences throughout the rest of the journey.
The 11:30pm fireworks are the grand finale of an evening that unfolds across the Venice lagoon. From around 6pm, boats begin gathering in anticipation of the display, creating a unique floating celebration where locals and visitors share food, drinks and conversation. It's this vibrant atmosphere, as much as the fireworks themselves, that makes the experience one of Venice's most treasured traditions.
Italy is best explored on foot, particularly in Rome, Florence and Venice where many historic streets and landmarks are pedestrian only. While the itinerary is designed at a comfortable pace, you should expect several hours of walking on some days, often across uneven cobblestones and historic staircases. A reasonable level of mobility will help you enjoy the experience.