12-Day Best of Italy and France Tour

Live the dream and explore Italy and France on a remarkable 12-day adventure! Travel through these iconic destinations, from Rome's ancient wonders to Florence's artistic treasures, Venice's mesmerizing canals, and Paris' captivating boulevards. Witness architectural marvels like the Colosseum and Eiffel Tower, savor delicious cuisine, and experience the rich history and culture of both countries.

This carefully planned itinerary showcases the highlights of Italy and France. Want to delve deeper? We can tailor the tour to your interests!

The best time to visit is Apr.- May / Sep.- Oct..

• Days:12±
• Best For:First-timers, time-smart travellers
• Departure date:up to you
• Highest altitude:—
• Sample price:US$On request each (2 per room)
• Flights:—

Brief Itinerary for Best of Italy and France Tour

Ready to discover the magic of Italy and France? This perfectly paced 12-day itinerary packs in the must-see sights, making it ideal for busy travelers who still want a memorable experience. Let's craft your dream Italian and French escape!

• Monica Mo
• 8 years of travel advisor experience
• Has helped 5,000+ clients

Tour Highlights

Here are the awesome attractions, the most must-do activities selected by Highlights Travel (HT Hand-Picked), and exclusive cultural experiences offered by Highlights Travel (Only With HT) included in this tour:

Fast-track the Vatican Museums with skip-the-line access and marvel at artistic treasures around every corner.

Delve into the Colosseum's history with priority access and a private guide, bringing its legendary battles to life.

Uncover Renaissance secrets while exploring Florence's bustling piazzas and iconic museums.

Glide through Venice's canals on a romantic gondola ride, a timeless experience.

Savor Venetian traditions on a guided Aperitivo tour, indulging in delicious bites at local "bacari."

Tantalize your taste buds on a Parisian food tour, savoring local delicacies and hidden gems.

Raise a toast in the heart of the Champagne region, exploring vineyards and tasting bubbly delights.

Step back in time at the magnificent Palace of Versailles, a symbol of French grandeur.

Embrace the mystique of Mont Saint Michel, a breathtaking island monastery off the Normandy coast.

Relax and enjoy the scenery as you effortlessly travel between cities in Italy aboard high-speed trains.

Unwind and explore hidden gems of Italy and France with personalized tours and private transfers.

Journey Map (Suggested Route)

Suggested Itinerary for Inspiration

Your preferences design the real journey. We're ready to create a wonderful tour for you.

Day 1

Rome Arrival

• Arrive in style and discover the wonders of Rome!
• As soon as you step off the plane at Fiumicino Airport, your friendly driver will be waiting to welcome you in the arrivals hall. Skip the hassle of navigating public transportation – your private transfer ensures a comfortable and stress-free journey straight to your Roman hotel.

Roman Forum

Day 2

Rome | Unveiling the Eternal City

• Explore Rome's must-sees in 7 action-packed hours !
• Your private driver zips you to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel , then on to the mighty Colosseum and historic Roman Forum .
• Witness stunning art, gladiatorial battles, and an ancient empire - all in one amazing day!
• Finally, unwind with a comfy transfer back to your hotel.

Tourists couple by Vatican city and St. Peter s Basilica church in Rome

Day 3

Rome to Florence

• Fast track to Florence! Enjoy Rome at your leisure before a high-speed train whisks you away. Depart central Rome by train, arriving conveniently at the Santa Lucia station for your onward journey.
• In Florence, a private driver awaits to take you directly to your hotel.
• After a short break, delve into a captivating 4-hour private tour .
• Skip the lines at the Accademia Gallery to witness Michelangelo's awe-inspiring David in all his intricate detail.
• Then, immerse yourself in Renaissance brilliance at the Uffizi Gallery , marveling at masterpieces by Giotto, Masaccio, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo.
• Return to your hotel, brimming with artistic inspiration.

Basilica of Saint Mary of the Flower

Day 4

Florence | Heart of Florence by walk

• Florence awaits! Your private guide whisks you on a captivating 3-hour journey through time :
• Start in the grand Piazza della Signoria , marveling at Palazzo Vecchio and the incredible statues at Loggia dei Lanzi .
• Stroll under the Uffizi's colonnade to reach Ponte Vecchio , Florence's oldest and most picturesque bridge.
• Discover the hidden Vasari Corridor , a secret passage connecting Palazzo Vecchio to Pitti Palace.
• Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Duomo Square . Your private guide will bring the history of the Cathedral, Baptistery, Giotto's Bell Tower, and Brunelleschi's Cupola to life.
• Conclude your Florentine adventure with a leisurely stroll back to your hotel.

Piazza della Signoria square

Day 5

Florence to Venice

• Travel seamlessly between Florence and Venice with private transfers between your hotel and train stations in both cities.
• Your private driver whisks you comfortably to the Santa Maria Novella train station for your train to Venice.
• Upon arrival at Santa Lucia station, a private motorboat awaits to transport you directly to your hotel in style, kicking off your Venetian adventure in true flair!

Venice Piazza San Marco distance view from a Gondola

Day 6

Venice | Gondola Ride & Aperitivo Tour

• Discover Venice's magic! Join your expert guide for a 2-hour walking tour of iconic landmarks:
• Witness the grandeur of Piazza San Marco , including the legendary St. Mark's Basilica and Doge's Palace .
• Cross the historic Bridge of Sighs . Glide through the canals on a gondola ride, soaking in the unique charm of Venice.
• Experience Venetian culture firsthand with a 3.5-hour Aperitivo tour :
• Explore the Cannaregio district , indulging in local delicacies and aperitivi at 5 unique bars with a foodie guide by your side.

Venice

Day 7

Venice to Paris

• Begin your whirlwind Parisian visit with a flight from Venice. If needed, we can assist you with booking your international flight.
• Upon landing in Paris, meet your friendly, English-speaking chauffeur who will then transfer you to your hotel for a chance to refresh before your Parisian explorations begin.

Cloister garden in Mont Saint Michel abbey in France

Day 8

Paris | Parisian Flavors & Highlights

• Indulge in Parisian flavors with a morning walking food tour , savoring fresh croissants, decadent pastries, and exquisite wines paired with local cheeses and charcuterie. Learn the art of wine tasting from a master caviste!
• Ascend the Eiffel Tower for breathtaking city views, then delve into Parisian history at the Arc de Triomphe , adorned with intricate carvings.
• Stroll the Champs-Élysées , a vibrant avenue lined with luxury shops and charming cafes. Admire the ornate obelisk at Place de la Concorde , the gateway to the Champs-Élysées.
• Conclude your day at the Louvre Museum , a treasure trove of artistic masterpieces.

Champs-Elysees Avenue with traffic Arc de Triomphe in Paris France at night

Day 9

A Royal Escape - Trip to Versailles

• Escape to Versailles ! Explore the magnificent palace, once a hunting lodge, transformed into a symbol of French power.
• Enjoy private access to wander opulent halls and the famed Hall of Mirrors .
• Stroll through stunning gardens adorned with fountains and a grand canal, designed by the visionary André le Nôtre.

Painted ceiling in Hall of Mirrors in Versailles

Day 10

A Day in Normandy - Mont Saint Michel

• Trade cityscapes for coastlines!
• Escape to the medieval marvel of Mont Saint Michel with a private car journey (stunning French countryside views included!).
• Explore the imposing castle walls and awe-inspiring abbey, steeped in rich history.
• Wander charming cobblestone streets and savor a delicious lunch of local specialties.

Cloister garden in Mont Saint Michel abbey in France

Day 11

The Heart of Champagne

• Celebrate your Parisian adventure with a day trip to the heart of Champagne .
• Explore a prestigious house, like Moët & Chandon or Veuve Clicquot, delving into their cellars and enjoying a delightful Champagne tasting.
• Journey through the charming countryside, admiring vineyards and villages.
• Visit the historic church of Hautvillers, Dom Pérignon's final resting place.
• Unwind on the return to Paris, savoring the bubbly memories of this sparkling finale.

a Champagne cellar in France containing some very, old very dusty vintages

Ideas for Making This Trip Uniquely Yours

Special experiences can be added to brighten a honeymoon trip, a family vacation, a birthday, or satisfy personal interests.

Hand-Picked Hotels

We select hotels with style and local features. Let us know your preferences and we'll find your ideal hotel.

Grand Hotel Palace Rome

Hotel Orto de Medici

Palazzo Veneziano Venice

Hôtel de l'Abbaye