Highlights of Italy in Winter

Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Your adventure begins in the collossal city of Rome – a capital where modern restaurants and cafes live among ancient ruins and religious monuments. You’ll have a welcome meeting tonight at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, and it’s recommended that you do, maybe take a tour of the Colosseum – one of the famed Seven Wonders of the World – grab dinner in trendy Trastevere and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, making a wish to return to the 'Eternal City'. After tonight's meeting, why not head out for dinner with your group and indulge in some classic Italian cuisine (maybe with a glass of the local vino).

When in Rome! Join your leader on an orientation walk around the city and spot the iconic sites like the Colosseum and Arch of Constantine, the Forum (centre of ancient Rome), the Victor Emmanuel Monument, the Pantheon, via Condotti and the Spanish Steps. Your afternoon is then free to explore at your own pace. Maybe recharge with a slice of pizza and a strong espresso at the Piazza Navona or head into Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica. Entry to the Basilica is free and there's a small charge to climb the dome for a panorama over the city. History buffs may also want to walk through the ancient halls of the Pantheon.

This morning, depart the Eternal City and catch a train to Florence. When you arrive, check into the hotel and go for a brief walk around the area to get your bearings. Florence is one of the most culturally rich and beautiful cities in Italy, known to many as the beating heart of Tuscany. The Medicis, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Brunelleschi, Machiavelli, Donatello and Michelangelo all lived in Florence at the height of their creative reign. Food is a major part of the city's identity, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to lunch and dinner. Meat lovers should try the bistecca alla fiorentina (a huge T-bone steak that's usually shared between two people) or ribollita (a thick vegetable soup with bread, beans and greens). Panforte is the signature sweet treat, so maybe grab some in the afternoon or after dinner.

Set out to the nearby city of Pisa. When you arrive, head out on a short orientation walk then visit the world-famous Leaning Tower. Grab your classic pinching-the-tower photo, then visit the Duomo (Piazza dei Miracoli, once the largest in Europe) and Pisa Baptistry (it's not always possible to climb the tower). The tower was built in the 12th century, but its foundation was on shifting sand and clay, meaning that it now leans at an angle of 4 degrees (after restoration and stabilising work). Wander the narrow streets, which feature everything from high-end boutiques to specialty book and antique stores, and maybe end the afternoon with an aperitif. Head back to Florence and make the most of your free afternoon to soak up the culturally rich atmosphere. Maybe walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo, set on a hill on the south bank of the Arno River, to take in the views of the city.

This morning, jump on a train to Bologna. Often neglected by travellers, Bologna is a charming city filled with medieval and Renaissance buildings and art. Get acquainted with this orange-hued hub during an orientation walk, then learn the fine art of Italian cooking with an evening cooking class. Here, you’ll be crafting the king of comfort food – pasta, of course! After learning the tricks of the trade, tuck into your creations for dinner.

Early this morning, get the train to the postcard-perfect city of Venice. Full of bridges, towers, piazzas, canals, churches and gondolas that remain practically unchanged since the 15th century, Venice is just as beautiful as you've always imagined. An orientation walk will help you to get the hang of the maze of the complex canal system, then you can set out on your own. Meet back up with your group in the late afternoon for a cicchetti walking tour (small snacks served in most bars and cafes) Snack and sip your way through the bars and taverns, soaking up the local culture in the best way.

Today is for exploring Venice and there are only two ways to get around this city – on foot or by boat. This morning, you’ll get a taste of both. Take the Vaporetto (water bus) over to the island of San Giorgio to climb the bell tower for the best view of the city and the canals. Then, the rest of the day is free to walk at your own pace. Perhaps grab an espresso and people watch in San Marco Square or discover the incredible artwork at the Palazzo Ducale or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. In the evening, maybe join your fellow travellers for a group dinner at a local restaurant. Venice is famous for its specialities of fresh lobster and squid ink spaghetti dishes – just ask your leader for the best spots!

With no further activities planned, your adventure comes to an end this morning. You're free to depart the accommodation at any time before check-out. As there is so much to see in Venice, it’s recommended that you stay a few extra days. If you need help with booking additional accommodation, just speak to your booking agent at the time of booking.