As your plane descends towards Marco Polo Airport, you catch your first glimpse of a place almost too magical to be real: Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic. The anticipation builds as you touch down in this enchanting city, known for its intricate network of canals, timeless architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Stepping off the plane, you can already feel the air thick with the promise of an extraordinary adventure. With its labyrinthine alleys and grandiose palaces, Venice beckons you to explore its hidden corners and immerse yourself in its unique charm. Welcome to the start of an unforgettable tour in one of the most captivating cities on Earth.

We will stay the next three nights at All’Angelo Art Hotel, San Marco, Venice

Each morning, you may wish to join Chuck on a walk or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at our hotel.

Discover the enchanting city of Venice through the eyes of a passionate local guide on a cultural walking tour. This immersive experience will take you on a journey through the labyrinthine streets, picturesque canals, and rich history of Venice, allowing you to uncover hidden gems and local traditions that make this city so unique.

In the afternoon, we will board a comfortable boat and sail to the charming island of Murano, famous for its exquisite glass craftsmanship. Visit a traditional glassblowing factory and witness skilled artisans create intricate glass artworks. Explore the picturesque streets and shop for unique glass souvenirs. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride between Murano and Lido, enjoying the stunning Venetian lagoon views. Arrive at the elegant Lido, known for its sandy beaches, grand hotels, and the Venice Film Festival. Stroll along the beautiful beaches, dip your toes in the Adriatic Sea, or relax at a beachside café.

The Accademia is home to an exceptional collection of Venetian art from the 14th to the 18th centuries. Some highlights include works by artists like Titian, Veronese, Tintoretto, and Bellini. Don't miss "Vitruvian Man" by Leonardo da Vinci, displayed here.

Alternatively, you may like to visit The Peggy Guggenheim Collection in the Dorsoduro district, which opens in the afternoon. This modern art museum is housed in Peggy Guggenheim's former Palazzo Venier dei Leoni home. It features a remarkable collection of 20th-century art, including works by Picasso, Kandinsky, Duchamp, and Pollock. The outdoor garden also hosts sculptures by famous artists.

Later, we tour The Doge's Palace on a captivating journey through one of the city's most iconic and historically significant landmarks. This stunning Gothic palace, also known as the Palazzo Ducale, was the center of Venetian government for centuries. As you approach The Doge's Palace, you'll be struck by its magnificent facade. The palace is a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture with ornate detailing, pointed arches, and a delicate pink and white marble exterior. It is situated right at the edge of the Grand Canal, providing a picturesque view.

We will attend a Vivaldi concert in one of Venice's historic churches in the evening. It is a magical and immersive experience that combines the timeless beauty of classical music with the city's rich cultural and architectural heritage. One of the most famous venues for such concerts is the Chiesa di San Vidal.

Arriving in Florence, Italy, is like stepping into a living art, history, and culture museum. As you make your way to the city's heart, you'll be greeted by a symphony of sights, sounds, and scents that encapsulate the essence of this enchanting destination.

On a walking tour, imagine yourself in the cultural riches of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Led by an expert local guide, this journey will take you through the winding streets of this historic city, revealing its unparalleled art, architecture, history, and the legacies of iconic figures such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and the powerful Medici family.

We will spend the next three nights at Palazzo Lorenzo Hotel Boutique & Spa.

Our visit to the Uffizi Gallery begins in the heart of Florence, where you'll find the impressive U-shaped building known as the Uffizi. Initially designed by Giorgio Vasari in the 16th century to house government offices ("Uffizi" in Italian), the building now hosts one of the world's most renowned art collections. Learn about the masterpieces inside, including works by Botticelli, Leonardo, Raphael, and Michelangelo.

Depending on your interests, you can spend a few hours to a full day exploring the gallery. The extensive collection offers something for everyone, from casual art enthusiasts to serious art connoisseurs.

Shopping in Florence is a delightful experience, as the city is known for its high-quality craftsmanship, fashion boutiques, and artisanal products. After you visit the Uffizi Gallery, you can enjoy some leisurely shopping in the afternoon. Here's a suggested plan for your shopping excursion in Florence:

Begin by having a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria or cafe. Florence is renowned for its delicious Tuscan cuisine, so take the time to savor some traditional dishes, such as ribollita (a hearty Tuscan soup), pappa al pomodoro (tomato and bread soup), or a classic Florentine steak.

San Lorenzo Market: This bustling market near the San Lorenzo Basilica is famous for its leather goods, including bags, belts, and jackets. You'll also find scarves, clothing, and various souvenirs.

Mercato di Sant'Ambrogio: A more local market experience where you can shop for fresh produce, cheese, and other food items. It's a great place to sample regional products.

The Ponte Vecchio is a major tourist attraction in Florence. Visitors admire its unique architecture, shop for jewelry and souvenirs, and enjoy stunning views of the Arno River and the cityscape. It's particularly beautiful during sunset when the warm light bathes the bridge.

Pitti Palace, originally built in the 15th century, served as the residence of the powerful Medici family and later the House of Lorraine. Exploring the palace allows you to step into the world of Renaissance and Baroque aristocracy, providing insights into the history and lifestyle of these influential dynasties.

Pitti Palace houses several museums, including the Palatine Gallery, which boasts an outstanding Italian and European art collection. You can admire works by renowned artists like Raphael, Titian, Rubens, and Caravaggio, making it a paradise for art enthusiasts.

The Boboli Gardens, one of the most famous examples of Italian Renaissance gardens, are a visual delight. The meticulously landscaped gardens offer a peaceful escape from the bustling city, with fountains, sculptures, and beautifully manicured greenery.

The gardens are dotted with sculptures and fountains, including works by renowned artists like Michelangelo and Giambologna. The seamless integration of art into the natural environment is a testament to the Renaissance concept of the "ideal garden."

The elevated terraces of the Boboli Gardens provide panoramic views of Florence, allowing you to appreciate the city's skyline and landmarks from a unique vantage point.

A final night in Venice is a magical and bittersweet experience, filled with the enchantment of this unique city and a sense of nostalgia as you prepare to bid farewell.

As the sun sets, you'll head to the Grand Canal to witness one of Venice's most iconic scenes. The fading light casts a warm, golden glow on the elegant palaces that line the canal. Gondolas and vaporettos drift by, and the water seems to shimmer with the reflection of centuries-old architecture. It's a picture-perfect moment that captures the essence of Venice's romantic allure.

We’ll choose a quaint trattoria tucked away from the main tourist routes for our final Venetian dinner. Venetian cuisine is renowned for its seafood, so you might savor dishes like spaghetti alle vongole (clams), risotto al nero di seppia (squid ink risotto), or fritto misto (mixed fried seafood). Don't forget to try a Venetian dessert, such as tiramisu or a creamy panna cotta.

On our final night in Venice, we will return to All’Angelo Art Hotel, San Marco, Venice

Since we are staying in Venice's historic center, you can take a water taxi to Venice Marco Polo Airport. It's a scenic and convenient way to travel. We will help arrange for a water taxi in advance or use the water taxi stands found throughout the city.

Departing from Venice to the airport is the final chapter of your journey in this captivating city. Whether you're returning home or heading to your next destination, it's a chance to reflect on the unique experiences and memories you've created in Venice. Safe travels!

The provided itinerary and hotel arrangements are subject to change. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and availability of the listed accommodations and activities, unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control may necessitate adjustments to the schedule. Rest assured, any modifications will be made with the utmost consideration for the comfort and enjoyment of our guests. We will do our best to communicate any changes promptly and provide suitable alternatives when needed. Flexibility is critical, and our team is dedicated to delivering an unforgettable travel experience, even in the face of unexpected changes. Your satisfaction and safety remain our top priorities throughout the journey. Thank you for being so understanding, and we look forward to creating beautiful memories together.