Jeff Mackey
The Essence of Italy
Luxury Trips - Zicasso
June 27 through July 11, 2027
Venice – Lake Garda – Florence – Tuscany – Rome – Amalfi Coast – Pompeii – Capri – Sorrento
A Timeless Journey Through Italy’s Art, Landscapes & Culinary Traditions
Ideal for: Senior Travelers | Friends Traveling Together | Cultural Explorers | Slow Travelers | Food & Wine Lovers | Authentic Italy Enthusiasts
Overview
Discover Italy at its most authentic pace through a carefully balanced journey combining iconic landmarks, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable local experiences.
From the enchanting canals of Venice to the rolling hills of Tuscany, from the artistic treasures of Florence and Rome to the dramatic beauty of the Amalfi Coast, this itinerary has been designed for travelers who wish to experience Italy deeply, without rushing.
Private guides, comfortable transfers, carefully selected hotels, and authentic encounters—from wine tastings and cooking experiences to hidden landscapes and coastal escapes—create the perfect balance between discovery and relaxation.
A journey made for curious travelers who want to uncover Italy’s greatest treasures while enjoying the freedom to truly savor each destination.
Why travellers love this trip?
- Experience Italy’s most iconic destinations while avoiding rushed travel rhythms
- Discover history and art with private expert guides in Venice, Florence, Rome, and Pompeii
- Enjoy authentic culinary experiences, from wine tastings to pasta making and pastry workshops
- Explore Italy’s most beautiful landscapes, from the lakes of Northern Italy to Tuscany’s countryside and the Amalfi Coast
- Travel comfortably with private transfers between destinations
- Balance active exploration with relaxing moments, allowing time to enjoy each place at your own pace
- Create meaningful memories together through shared experiences and local encounters
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Venice | Arrival in the Floating City
Upon arrival at Venice Airport, your private driver will welcome you and accompany you comfortably to the pier, where a private water taxi will bring you directly to your elegant 4★ hotel in the heart of Venice.
After settling into your accommodation, the rest of the day is yours to relax and begin discovering the magical atmosphere of the Serenissima at your own pace.
Wander through quiet canals, admire historic palaces reflected in the water, or simply enjoy your first Venetian aperitivo as the city begins to reveal its timeless charm.
Overnight in Venice – Venice – Palazzo Paruta & Wellness Apartments
Day 2 – Venice | The Splendor of La Serenissima
This morning, meet your private guide for an unforgettable introduction to Venice.
Discover the magnificent St. Mark’s Square, admire the extraordinary architecture of the Doge’s Palace from outside, and enter the breathtaking St. Mark’s Basilica, where golden mosaics and centuries of history reveal the power and beauty of the Venetian Republic.
The afternoon is free to explore Venice independently. Lose yourself among hidden alleyways, artisan workshops, elegant cafés, and peaceful canals far from the main paths.
Overnight in Venice – Venice – Palazzo Paruta & Wellness Apartments
Day 3 – The Venetian Lagoon | Islands, Traditions & Hidden Beauty
Today is dedicated to discovering the unique world surrounding Venice.
With your 1-day vaporetto pass, explore the enchanting islands of the lagoon at your own pace. Visit colorful Burano, famous for its vibrant houses and lace tradition, discover the glassmaking heritage of Murano, or enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Torcello.
A slower day immersed in local traditions, island landscapes, and the authentic soul of the Venetian lagoon.
Overnight in Venice – Venice – Palazzo Paruta & Wellness Apartments
Day 4 – Lake Garda | Italian Lakes & Wine Traditions
Leave Venice behind for a beautiful private excursion to one of Italy’s most spectacular lakes.
Your private driver will accompany you to Lake Garda, where dramatic mountains, charming lakeside villages, and sparkling waters create an unforgettable landscape.
In the afternoon, enjoy a wine tasting experience in a local winery, discovering regional varieties and the traditions of the producers who have shaped this extraordinary territory.
Return to Venice in the evening.
Overnight in Venice – Venice – Palazzo Paruta & Wellness Apartments
Day 5 – Florence | Entering the Renaissance
A private transfer will accompany you from Venice to Florence, allowing you to travel comfortably through the Italian countryside.
Upon arrival, check in at your elegant 4★ hotel in the historic center.
The afternoon is free to begin discovering Florence at your own rhythm. Walk along the Arno River, admire the Ponte Vecchio, explore artisan boutiques, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the city that gave birth to the Renaissance.
Later, enjoy a wine tasting experience featuring traditional Tuscan wines.
Overnight in Florence – B&B Hotel Firenze Laurus al Duomo
4★ Hotel | 2 Superior Double Rooms with View | Breakfast Included
Ideally located in the historic center of Florence, only a short walk from the Duomo and the city’s Renaissance treasures, this comfortable 4★ hotel offers the perfect base for exploring Florence on foot. You will stay in Superior Double Rooms with views, with daily breakfast included and easy access to the main attractions.
Day 6 – Florence | The Cradle of the Renaissance
This morning, meet your private guide for a walking tour through the heart of Florence.
Discover the city’s greatest treasures, including Piazza del Duomo, Brunelleschi’s magnificent Cathedral dome, Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and Ponte Vecchio, while learning about the artists, families, and ideas that transformed Florence forever.
In the afternoon, visit independently the elegant Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens, where art, history, and beautiful landscapes come together.
Overnight in Florence – B&B Hotel Firenze Laurus al Duomo
Day 7 – Florence | Authentic Tuscan Flavors
Today, experience Tuscany through one of its greatest traditions: food.
Take part in a private pasta-making class where you will learn the secrets behind fresh handmade pasta using local ingredients and traditional techniques.
After this authentic culinary experience, the afternoon is yours to relax or continue exploring Florence at your own pace.
Overnight in Florence – B&B Hotel Firenze Laurus al Duomo
Day 8 – San Gimignano & Chianti | Wine, Olive Oil & Timeless Tuscany
Today, immerse yourself in the authentic heart of Tuscany, where medieval villages, world-renowned wines, and breathtaking landscapes come together.
Begin with time to explore San Gimignano, famous for its soaring stone towers, charming streets, and beautifully preserved medieval atmosphere. Continue to a prestigious local estate for a leisurely lunch paired with a tasting of regional wines, offering a true introduction to Tuscany’s celebrated food and wine traditions.
In the afternoon, discover the picturesque villages of the Chianti region before enjoying a second tasting dedicated to both Chianti wines and extra virgin olive oil at the renowned Palagina estate. Return to Florence in the evening after a day that perfectly captures the flavors, landscapes, and timeless elegance of Tuscany.
Overnight in Florence – B&B Hotel Firenze Laurus al Duomo
Day 9 – Rome | The Eternal City
A private transfer will bring you comfortably from Florence to Rome.
After checking into your elegant 4★ hotel in the historic center, enjoy a first immersion into Ancient Rome.
From your hotel, reach independently the meeting point for a private guided visit of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill, where centuries of history come alive through fascinating stories and extraordinary archaeological remains.
Overnight in Rome – THE STEPS Hotel – by Eitch Collection
4★ Hotel | 2 Superior Double Rooms | Breakfast Included
Set in a privileged location in the heart of Rome, within walking distance of the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the elegant streets of the historic center, this stylish 4★ hotel blends contemporary design with Roman charm. Your stay includes Superior Double Rooms and a daily breakfast service for a comfortable and convenient Roman experience.
Day 10 – Vatican City | Masterpieces of Faith & Art
Today, enjoy two different perspectives of Rome, tailored to each traveler’s interests.
Two members of the group will join a private guided visit of Vatican City, exploring the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica while discovering the masterpieces and stories behind one of the world’s most extraordinary collections of art.
Meanwhile, the other two travelers will enjoy a more independent exploration of Rome, with time to visit Castel Sant’Angelo and wander through the charming Ripa neighborhood, discovering a quieter and more authentic side of the Eternal City at their own pace.
In the afternoon, enjoy some free time to relax, explore Rome independently, or simply soak up the atmosphere of the Eternal City before your evening at leisure.
Overnight in Rome – THE STEPS Hotel – by Eitch Collection
Day 11 – Amalfi Coast | From Rome to the Mediterranean
A private transfer will accompany you from Rome to the enchanting Amalfi Coast.
After arriving at your elegant 4★ hotel in Maiori, enjoy a relaxed afternoon discovering this spectacular coastal village.
Take time to explore Amalfi’s charming streets, enjoy sea views, or optionally visit nearby Ravello, famous for its elegant villas and breathtaking panoramas.
Overnight in Maiori – Hotel Reginna Palace
4★ Hotel | 2 Smart Double Sea View Rooms | Breakfast Included
Perfectly positioned on Maiori’s seafront promenade, Hotel Reginna Palace combines comfort, elegance, and one of the Amalfi Coast’s most privileged waterfront locations. Just a few steps from the beach and within easy walking distance of restaurants and cafés, the hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere with an outdoor swimming pool, panoramic terraces, and direct access to the vibrant seaside town. Your stay includes two Smart Double Rooms with Sea View and daily breakfast, allowing you to wake up each morning to beautiful views of the Mediterranean.
Day 12 – Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius | History & Wine Beneath the Volcano
Today, your private driver will accompany you through Campania’s most fascinating landscapes.
Begin with a private guided visit of Pompeii, where ancient streets, villas, temples, and theaters reveal daily life in the Roman Empire before the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.
Continue toward the slopes of the volcano for a visit to a local winery, where you will enjoy a traditional lunch paired with regional wines produced in this unique volcanic terroir.
Overnight in Maiori – Hotel Reginna Palace
Day 13 – Capri | The Jewel of the Mediterranean
Today, experience Capri from its most spectacular perspective: the sea.
Board your private boat in Amalfi and set off for a full-day cruise along one of the Mediterranean’s most iconic coastlines. As you sail towards Capri, admire dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, natural sea caves, and crystal-clear waters accessible only by boat.
Once around the island, you’ll have time to swim, relax on board, and discover Capri’s most celebrated landmarks from the water before enjoying free time ashore to wander through the island’s elegant streets, browse its boutiques, or stop for lunch with unforgettable sea views.
In the late afternoon, you’ll cruise back to Amalfi, ending a truly exclusive day that perfectly combines relaxation, breathtaking scenery, and the timeless charm of Capri.
Overnight in Maiori – Hotel Reginna Palace
Day 14 – Sorrento | Coastal Charm & Italian Pastry Traditions
Enjoy a final Mediterranean experience with a ferry journey from Amalfi to Sorrento.
Explore this charming coastal town, famous for its lemon groves, artisan workshops, and spectacular views over the Bay of Naples.
During the day, participate in a private pastry-making experience, discovering the secrets of traditional Italian desserts with local experts.
Return to Amalfi by ferry.
Overnight in Maiori – Hotel Reginna Palace
Day 15 – Arrivederci Italy
After breakfast, your private driver will accompany you comfortably from your hotel to Naples Airport for your return flight home.
Depart with unforgettable memories of Venice’s canals, Tuscany’s landscapes, Rome’s ancient wonders, and the timeless beauty of the Amalfi Coast.
A journey that celebrates Italy through its history, flavors, traditions, and the authentic experiences that make it truly unforgettable.
What is included
Day 1 – Venice | Arrival in the Floating City
- Private transfer from Venice Airport to Venice pier
- Private water taxi from the pier to the hotel
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Venice with breakfast included
Day 2 – Venice | The Splendor of La Serenissima
- Private guided walking tour of Venice
- Entrance tickets to St. Mark’s Basilica
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Venice with breakfast included
Day 3 – The Venetian Lagoon | Islands, Traditions & Hidden Beauty
- 1-day public vaporetto pass for Venice lagoon islands
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Venice with breakfast included
Day 4 – Lake Garda | Italian Lakes & Wine Traditions
- Private full-day excursion to Lake Garda with driver
- Wine tasting experience in a local winery
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Venice with breakfast included
Day 5 – Florence | Entering the Renaissance
- Private transfer from Venice hotel to Florence hotel
- Traditional Tuscan wine tasting experience
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Florence with breakfast included
Day 6 – Florence | The Cradle of the Renaissance
- Private guided walking tour of Florence historic center
- Entrance tickets for Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Florence with breakfast included
Day 7 – Florence | Authentic Tuscan Flavors
- Private pasta-making class experience
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Florence with breakfast included
Day 8 – San Gimignano & Chianti
- Private full-day excursion to San Gimignano and Chianti with driver
- Wine estate lunch featuring traditional Tuscan cuisine with wine tasting
- Wine and extra virgin olive oil tasting at Palagina Estate
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Florence with breakfast included
Day 9 – Rome | The Eternal City
- Private transfer from Florence hotel to Rome hotel
- Private guided tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Palatine Hill
- Entrance tickets included
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Rome with breakfast included
Day 10 – Vatican City | Masterpieces of Faith & Art
- Private guided tour of Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica
- Entrance tickets included to the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica (for 2 people)
- Entrance tickets included to the Castel Sant’Angelo (for 2 people)
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel in central Rome with breakfast included
Day 11 – Amalfi Coast | From Rome to the Mediterranean
- Private transfer from Rome hotel to Amalfi Coast hotel
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel on the Amalfi Coast with breakfast included
Day 12 – Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius | History & Wine Beneath the Volcano
- Private full-day excursion with driver
- Private guided tour of Pompeii Archaeological Park
- Entrance tickets included
- Visit to a local winery at the foot of Mount Vesuvius
- Traditional lunch with wine tasting included
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel on the Amalfi Coast with breakfast included
Day 13 – Capri | The Jewel of the Mediterranean
- Full-day private boat excursion from Amalfi to Capri with professional English-speaking skipper, fuel, beach towels, soft drinks and bottled water on board, free time to explore Capri independently, and return cruise to Amalfi. Excludes landing tax in Capri, optional Blue Grotto entrance, lunch, and personal expenses.
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel on the Amalfi Coast with breakfast included
Day 14 – Sorrento | Coastal Charm & Italian Pastry Traditions
- Ferry tickets Maiori – Sorrento – Maiori
- Private pastry-making experience in Sorrento
- Overnight accommodation in a 4★ hotel on the Amalfi Coast with breakfast included
Day 15 – Arrivederci Italy
- Private transfer from Amalfi Coast hotel to Naples Airport
What is not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- City taxes payable directly at hotels
- Meals and beverages not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses and shopping
- Optional activities during free time
- Any service not expressly listed under Included in the Price
DEPOSIT
must be paid by
9.675
BALANCE
must be paid by
22.575
TOTAL PRICE
Policies & Terms
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations are subject to the following penalties calculated on the total trip price:
- Deposit (30%) is non-refundable under any circumstances.
If the trip has been fully paid, the following penalties apply:
- Up to 60 days before departure: 50% penalty
- From 59 to 45 days before departure: 75% penalty
- From 44 days prior to departure to the departure date: 100% penalty
Package Modifications
Once the package has been confirmed, modifications can be made up to 45 days before departure.
- Upgrades: free of charge, except for the cost of the new services
- Downgrades: subject to an agency fee of €200 per modified service
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your trip in case of unexpected cancellations, changes, or emergencies.
Payment Options & TERMS
Payment currency: € EURO
Accepted Payment Methods:
– Credit card
– Debit card
– Revolut Direct
Payment Terms
Deposit: 30% non-refundable, due at the time of booking confirmation.
Balance Payment: due between 60 and 80 days prior to the departure date.
All payments are to be made in € EURO.