12 Days Journey to Rome with Insight Vacations

Journey to Rome with Insight Vacations – Tour Overview

Embark on a stunning 12-day adventure through the heart of Europe with Insight Vacations. From the romantic boulevards of Paris to the serene lakes of Lucerne, the alpine charm of Innsbruck, and the timeless canals of Venice—this journey culminates in the eternal city of Rome. Enjoy seamless travel, hand-picked experiences, and premium accommodations as you explore Europe’s most iconic cities in comfort and style.

Destinations Covered: Paris · Lucerne · Innsbruck · Venice · Rome

12-Day Journey to Rome Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Paris – City of Lights

Accommodation: Paris Marriott Rive Gauche Hotel or similar

Welcome to the enchanting city of Paris! Upon arrival, take some time to relax and settle into your hotel. During your stay in the French capital, you’ll witness some of its most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Élysées, and the majestic Arc de Triomphe.

In the evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a delightful welcome dinner at a charming local brasserie in the heart of Paris—an ideal way to begin your European journey.

Day 2: Paris – A Taste of Local Life

Accommodation: Paris Marriott Rive Gauche Hotel or similar

This morning, embark on a delightful food tour with a passionate local guide, venturing into charming neighborhoods where Parisians live, shop, and dine. Discover hidden gems, browse quaint boutiques, and savor a variety of delicious local specialties and treats along the way.

The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Stroll along the Seine, visit a museum, or sip coffee at a sidewalk café while soaking in the Parisian ambiance. In the evening, you may wish to join an Optional Experience and enjoy the dazzling spectacle of a classic Parisian cabaret.

Day 3: Paris – Burgundy – Lucerne

Accommodation: Astoria Lucerne or similar

Bid farewell to Paris as you travel through the scenic French countryside of Burgundy, a region celebrated for its world-class vineyards and wines. Continue your journey past the picturesque Jura Mountains before crossing into Switzerland.

Arrive in the breathtaking lakeside city of Lucerne, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and tranquil waters. This evening, enjoy a special Dine-Around Experience—choose from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, each offering delicious Swiss and international cuisine in a cozy setting.

Day 4: Mount Stanserhorn Adventure & Lucerne Exploration

Highlights: Mount Stanserhorn Experience · Swiss Wildlife & Conservation · Lucerne Orientation
Accommodation: Astoria Lucerne or similar

This morning, set out on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience to Mount Stanserhorn. Board an innovative open-top cable car powered by solar energy for a scenic ascent to the summit. Enjoy panoramic views, stroll along peaceful alpine trails, and keep watch for marmots and other native wildlife. If conditions permit, attend a fascinating conservation talk led by a Swiss ranger to learn about the region’s unique flora and fauna. On clear days, the views stretch as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany.

Back in Lucerne, admire the poignant Lion Monument, a powerful tribute to the Swiss Guards who gave their lives defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Continue with a leisurely walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge, and visit the beautifully preserved Jesuit Church, nestled along the Reuss River.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore. Wander through Lucerne’s charming Old Town, indulge in Swiss chocolate, or browse for elegant timepieces and souvenirs.

Day 5: Lucerne – Vaduz – Innsbruck

Highlights: Scenic Alpine Drive · Vaduz Castle · Innsbruck Orientation
Accommodation: AC Hotel Innsbruck or similar

Today’s journey takes you deeper into the heart of the Alps, starting with a scenic drive through the tiny yet charming Principality of Liechtenstein. Pause in its capital, Vaduz, where you’ll catch a glimpse of the fairytale-like Vaduz Castle, perched high above the town.

Continue into Austria and arrive in the picturesque, mountain-framed city of Innsbruck. Join your Travel Director for an insightful orientation of the historic Old Town, where you’ll see beautifully preserved 14th-century houses, the grand Imperial Palace, and the city’s most famous landmark—the shimmering Golden Roof, built for Emperor Maximilian I.

Day 6: Innsbruck – Veneto – Venice

Highlights: Scenic Alpine Drive · Prosecco Tasting in Veneto · Evening in Venice
Accommodation: BW Premier Collection CHC Continental or similar

Depart Innsbruck and journey over the majestic Europa Bridge, winding your way through the dramatic peaks of the Dolomites. Cross into Italy and arrive in the Veneto region, where you’ll visit a charming family-owned winery. Learn the secrets behind the production of Italy’s beloved Prosecco, enjoy a tasting of these elegant sparkling wines, and even discover how to create the perfect Bellini.

Continue to the romantic city of Venice, the magical “Queen of the Adriatic.” As the sun sets and the day-trippers depart, enjoy the serene charm of the islands. Cap off your evening with a delicious dinner at a local Venetian restaurant, soaking in the peaceful ambiance of this timeless city.

Day 7: Venice – City of Canals and Craftsmanship

Highlights: St. Mark’s Square · Artisan Glassblowing (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience) · Free Time in Venice
Accommodation: BW Premier Collection CHC Continental or similar

Begin your day soaking in the splendor of Venice, one of the world’s most romantic cities. Stroll through St. Mark’s Square, where you’ll admire the soaring Campanile, the ornate Doge’s Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs, which once connected the palace to the historic prisons.

Next, take part in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with a visit to a traditional Venetian glassblowing workshop. Watch master artisans transform molten glass into intricate works of art, keeping centuries-old techniques alive.

The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Browse for unique souvenirs in the charming arcades, enjoy a gondola ride through the canals, or opt for a memorable cruise across the Venetian lagoon to Burano—a colorful island known for lace-making and delightful seafood meals paired with local wine.

Day 8: Venice – Pisa – Florence

Highlights: Tuscan Countryside · Farm-to-Table Lunch · Pisa City Tour with Local Expert
Accommodation: Hotel Ambasciatori or similar

Depart Venice and journey through the scenic Tuscan countryside, where rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves create postcard-perfect views. Stop at Il Poggio, a charming hilltop farm, for a delightful farm-to-table lunch. Savor freshly prepared regional dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, and enjoy tastings of the farm’s house-made wines and olive oil while dining al fresco on the veranda.

Later, continue to the historic town of Pisa. With a Local Expert, explore the famous Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the baptistery with its exquisite marble façade, the cathedral, and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa—one of Italy’s most beloved landmarks.

After your tour, travel onward to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance.

Day 9: Florence – Cradle of the Renaissance

Highlights: Florence City Tour · Piazza della Signoria · Santa Croce & Artisan Shopping
Accommodation: Hotel Ambasciatori or similar

This morning, discover the artistic treasures of Florence with a Local Expert. Begin at the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with its iconic red dome and marble-clad façade. Admire the nearby Baptistery, where the legendary Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been faithfully recreated.

Stroll to the Piazza della Signoria, the city’s political and cultural heart, home to a stunning open-air gallery of Renaissance sculptures. Marvel at statues including Neptune, Perseus, and a replica of Michelangelo’s David, all set against the backdrop of the imposing Palazzo Vecchio.

Later, wander through the district surrounding Santa Croce Basilica, renowned for its Florentine leather goods and gold craftsmanship. Enjoy free time to shop, relax at a café, or continue exploring Florence’s rich artistic and architectural heritage at your own pace.

Day 10: Florence – Assisi – Rome

Highlights: Scenic Chianti Drive · Assisi Basilica of St. Francis · Giotto Frescoes
Accommodation: Radisson Blu GHR Rome or similar

Depart Florence and travel through the picturesque Chianti wine region, where rolling vineyards and olive groves define the landscape. Pass by Lake Trasimeno, steeped in ancient history as the site of Hannibal’s legendary battle against the Roman army.

Arrive in the serene hilltop town of Assisi, a gem of Umbria built from pale pink stone and rich in spiritual heritage. With a Local Expert, visit the stunning Basilica of St. Francis, one of Italy’s most revered pilgrimage sites. Admire the beautifully preserved frescoes by Giotto and visit the saint’s tomb in this peaceful and sacred setting.

Continue your journey through the Tiber Valley, arriving in the Eternal City of Rome, where history, art, and grandeur await.

Day 11: Rome – Vatican City & Ancient Wonders

Highlights: Sistine Chapel · Colosseum · Circus Maximus · Historic Pharmacy Visit · Authentic Roman Dinner
Accommodation: Radisson Blu GHR Rome or similar

Begin your day at the awe-inspiring Vatican City, where you’ll marvel at Michelangelo’s breathtaking Sistine Chapel ceiling, a masterpiece of Renaissance art.

Cross the Tiber River and explore ancient Rome’s iconic landmarks. Stand before the mighty Colosseum, still echoing with the roar of gladiators from centuries past, and view the vast Circus Maximus, once the thrilling site of chariot races and public spectacles.

Experience a unique MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® moment with a visit to the Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala. Join a Carmelite friar for insights into its historic role, while admiring the adjoining 16th-century church and its timeless charm.

In the evening, immerse yourself in the lively spirit of this historic neighborhood as you enjoy a delicious dinner paired with fine wine at a local Roman restaurant—an authentic taste of the Eternal City.

Day 12: Rome – Farewell to Italy

As your incredible journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable memories made amid Italy’s enchanting cities, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking landscapes. The unique charm and timeless beauty of Italy will stay with you long after you’ve departed.

When it’s time, your departure transfer will take you to Leonardo da Vinci Airport (FCO) for your onward journey, with arrival times at approximately 07:00 or 09:30.