Gladiators, Galleries and Gondolas

Begin your Italian escape in Rome at the wonderfully located Inn at the Spanish Steps. Start your days with an indulgent breakfast on the rooftop terrace as you drink in views of Quirinale Palace, the Pincio Gardens and Monte Mario hill, before stepping out to discover the delights of this ancient city. Go on a guided tour of the city to see the very best of the ‘Eternal City’, from its cathedrals, palaces and ancient ruins to its amazing fashion boutiques. As night falls, take your pick from the numerous superb restaurants. With so much to see, discovering Rome can be a hungry business, but its world-class cuisine is the perfect remedy.

From Rome, it’s a short train journey to Florence: birthplace of the Italian Renaissance and jam-packed with cultural treasures. Poised in a peaceful piazza moments from the Uffizi Gallery, the Hotel Brunelleschi is set up perfectly for dipping into the beautiful streets to witness the artistic and architectural marvels of this great city, from Michelango's David in the Galleria dell'Academica to the astounding city cathedral. For real art lovers, experience first-hand Italy’s renowned ‘artigiano’, meeting craftsmen like wrought ironworks, leather gilders, shoemakers and jewellers in a behind-the-scenes tour of Florence’s artist workshops.

You’ll end your classic holiday in Venice at the quirky boutique hotel, Ca Maria Adele. Encased in a 16th century palazzo, your Venetian home affords views over the magnificent Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute, and is just minutes from Marks Square. Navigate Venice's warren of cobblestone alleyways to discover antique shops, markets and delicious restaurants or hop on a gondola for a ride through the enchanting maze of canals. Go on a private guided tour to unravel some of Venice’s secrets by day (and by helicopter if you want to give your feet a rest) and by night we recommend catching an impressive opera show at Teatro La Fenice.