Italy's art cities: Venice, Florence & Rome

Today, you will have a private guided tour of St Mark's Basilica and the 15th-century Doge's Palace. You'll be able to go behind the scenes, uncover the hidden chambers where the Doge administered the republic, and visit the Bridge of Sighs.

Departing by private water taxi, you'll head to the train station for your journey to Florence. You will have premium-class tickets for this two-hour journey. Upon arrival in Florence, a private driver will escort you to your hotel. In the afternoon, you may want to take some time to explore the stunning Piazza del Duomo, home to Florence's iconic Renaissance cathedral. If you are feeling energetic, you can climb both the bell tower and the dome for wonderful views of the city.

This morning, you have a three-hour private guided walking tour around Florence. You will visit the beautiful Santa Croce Basilica and the Accademia to see Michelangelo's iconic 'David'. The afternoon is free to continue exploring at your leisure. You may want to take a lunchtime stroll along the banks of the Arno or while away the afternoon in the fascinating Bargello Gallery.

Today, you have a full day at leisure to relax or explore more of this fascinating city at your own pace. In the morning, you may want to cross the Arno and visit the Pitti Palace and stunning Boboli Gardens. In the afternoon, you can explore the ornate Medici Chapels, home to some beautiful Renaissance treasures.

Your driver will take you to the train station in Florence for your premium class train journey to Rome, which will take around two hours. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. After settling in, you'll have the opportunity to get your bearings in Rome with a privately guided tour of the city by car and on foot. This evening tour includes key sites such as the Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain.

Step back in time to 80 AD when the building of Rome's most famous landmark, the Colosseum, was constructed. Skip past the lines and enjoy direct entry into the landmark, where your private guide will explain the significance of the Colosseum during the Roman era. The Roman Forum, the heart of Roman public life, is just next door, so you'll visit this vast site with your guide afterwards. This afternoon is unguided, but to stick with the Ancient Rome theme, we recommend heading to Capitoline Hill and Trajan's Column, which are both easily accessible from the Forum.

This morning, you have a privately guided tour of the Vatican, including St Peter's Basilica, the Vatican Museums and, of course, the Sistine Chapel with its beautiful ceiling by Michelangelo. As you may expect, this will be one of the busiest sites you visit on your trip, so afterwards, you will have a well-deserved afternoon break to relax.

Today visit the beautiful masterpieces housed within the Borghese Gallery with your private guide. After the museum, your guide will take you to the Santa Maria del Popolo Church, home to some incredible works by Caravaggio and Bernini, before ending your tour at the Spanish Steps. Spend your final afternoon at leisure, soaking up the wonderful atmosphere of Rome.

Today you will be transferred by private driver to the airport for your flight home. Your return flight will arrive the same day.