An Italian Family Adventure
Trip highlights
- Step back in time during fascinating tours of Ancient Rome
- Learn to make traditional Italian pizza and gelato
- Discover the hidden secrets of Tuscany, as well as its incredible culinary scene
- See Florence through the eyes of its famed artists
- Soak up the sunshine on the Amalfi Coast and the island of Capri
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Privately guided tours
- Private transfers
- Meticulously selected experiences
- Expertise and support from your Jacada Concierge
- Days 1–4 Rome
- Days 4–6 Venice
- Days 6–10 Florence
- Days 10–13 The Amalfi Coast
- Days 13–14 Rome
- Days 1–4 Rome
- Days 4–6 Venice
- Days 6–10 Florence
- Days 10–13 The Amalfi Coast
- Days 13–14 Rome
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
When in Rome
Rome, Italy’s capital and largest city, needs little introduction. One of the most history-rich and significant locations in the world, throughout your time in the city you will be exposed to numerous glorious reminders of Rome’s illustrious past. From the famous ancient Roman wonders to Renaissance masterpieces, all are on show, ready to allow you to experience a step back in time. That’s not to say that its cosmopolitan streets do not embrace the now; Rome is as exhilarating and forward thinking as ever, home to some superb dining, shopping and entertainment avenues.
Where you could stay
Rome
Highlights
- 91 rooms and 31 suites
- Le Jardin de Russie restaurant
- Stravinskij Bar
- De Russie Spa
- Fitness centre
Overview
Once hosting aristocratic travellers, Russian royalty and renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau, a half century hiatus as an office building ended with a glorious restoration and re-establishment of this Roman icon.
The Hotel de Russie lies between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo on the Via del Babuino, within easy walking distance of Rome’s main attractions, fashion houses and Via Condotti. Though surrounded by the ceaseless buzz of the city, behind the hotel’s unassuming frontage, is a soothing tranquility – both in design and ambiance – and vast private 18th century terraced gardens, a rare oasis away from it all.
122 rooms and suites are thoroughly up to date amenity wise, complete with Bisazza mosaic and Carrara marble in the bathrooms. Some feature private terraces and many rooms have views over Rome, Piazza del Popolo or the garden.
The Stravinskij Bar is renowned for its apertivos, while Le Jardin de Russie and its chef, two-Michelin-star chef Fulvio Pierangelini, serve up simple yet refined dishes Mediterranean dishes in one a most romantic of settings. Furthering the Hotel de Russie urban oasis credentials is the De Russie Spa, one of Rome’s best health clubs.
→ Find out moreRome
Overview
Built the late 19th century, this grandiose villa has stayed with the Trivelli family ever since, through hosting meetings of the National Council of Italian Women, high society gathering of Counts and Countess to being the residence of Piero Trivelli, a sensitive writer and refined poet. In 2004, son of Count Piero decided to convert the historic residence into the fabulous boutique hotel of today.
Communal areas are full of antiques and art, the library is listed and lounge areas steeped in a dark wood, old world luxury. Outside are peaceful formal gardens that form a walled oasis away from the Rome’s bustle.
Overlooking the greenery are just 12 rooms, warm and welcoming, with subtle modern touches enhancing the historic charm of the original features. Large beds are clad in Fiandra linen sheets and alpaca or cashmere throws. Bathrooms are spacious and lined in marble, and all have baths as well as showers. Well-stocked minibars are complimentary.
On the other side of the garden are two Garden Suites and a large apartment ideal for families, small groups or those seeking privacy.
Breakfast is a vast spread and afternoon tea is served by the fireplace, whilst dinners can be arranged in the garden during summer months. There is also a wonderful spa and health centre offering restorative wellness therapies.
Centrally located between the Via Nazionale and the Quirinal Palace, the Colosseum is a 15 minute walk away, the Trevi Fountain half that, and many of the city’s best restaurants are just around the corner.
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Avoid the crowd
Back in time
Toss a coin
Toss a coin
Early-access Vatican City tour
Arrive at the Vatican early when you’ll have the chance to enjoy a tour with your personal guide. The culmination of the visit is Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel, home to the conclave that elects Popes. The ceiling frescoes and Last Judgement on the altar wall are probably the most viewed paintings in the world. From here, enter St Peter’s Basilica where one of the first things you will see is Michelangelo’s Pieta.
Tour of the Colosseum
Built by the Emperor Vespasian in 72 AD, the Colosseum seated about 50,000 spectators and staged all the most blood-thirsty games known to ancient Romans, including gladiatorial combat, man against beast, beast against beast, land battles, sea battles and executions. All were designed to inspire and overawe the citizens at the heart of this mighty empire.
Visit the Trevi Fountain
Designed by Italian architect Nicola Salvi and completed by Pietro Bracci in 1762, the vast Baroque Trevi Fountain is iconic of Rome, seen in countless films and is perhaps the most famous water feature in the world. Just remember that coins are meant to be thrown using the right hand over the left shoulder.
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Get cooking
Gladiator games
Pizza-making workshop
No visit to Italy would be complete without tasting an authentic Italian pizza, but what better way to experience this iconic Italian dish than through making your own? You’ll be welcomed by a professional pizza maker and be taken through the process of pizza making. You’ll get to knead the dough, create the topping, pop it into the oven and best of all, you’ll get to eat your creation too.
Gladiator School
Appropriately attired in togas, wooden sword in hand, learn the basics of hand-to-hand combat at a gladiator school led by members of the Historic Group of Rome. You’ll discover the secrets of Imperial Rome’s infamous gladiator games, get hands-on with ancient history and be shown around the museum on this fun two-hour tour.
Canal life in Venice
Sat within a shallow lagoon between the mouths of Po and Piave rivers, Venice is formed of 118 islands formed by some 170 canals connected by over 400 bridges. The entire city is considered a World Heritage Site, an extraordinary architectural masterpiece in which even the smallest building may contain works by some of the Europe’s greatest artists. Some of the iconic attractions you’ll see on the main Rialto islands are Piazza San Marco, the Rialto Bridge, Doge’s Palace, Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Grand Canal. It’s a unique collection of brooding Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque architecture. Spend your days discovering tucked away galleries, museums and palazzos.
Where you could stay
Venice
Overview
The iconic Belmond Hotel Cipriano is located on Guidecca Island, across the water from St Mark’s Square, a most enviable location that has long helped make the hotel one of Venice’s most exclusive.
96 rooms and suites, split between the mid 20th century building and historic palazzo, are decorated in an opulent and impeccably Venetian style, with views out across the lagoon and cityscape or the lush Casanova gardens.
Fine dining options, such as the Michelin-starred Oro Restaurant and Cip’s Bar, take full advantage of the location’s wonderful vistas, while the Gabbiano Bar, Wine Cellar and Piano Bar are each draws in the evening.
The famous Olympic-sized swimming is at the centre of the property, the only one of its size in central Venice. There is a personal trainer on site, red-clay tennis courts, and a fitness centre, as well the Casanova Wellness Centre for something a bit more relaxing.
It is just five minutes from the Belmond Hotel Cipriani’s own pier to St Mark’s in the heart of Venice. Here the city’s highlights await.
→ Find out moreVenice
Overview
At the Grand Canal’s edge, the historic Gritti Palace occupies a building that dates back to 1475 as a private home for the noble Pisani family, followed by the distinguished Doge of Venice, Andrea Gritti.
Carefully restored in 2013, the Gritti’s heritage and culture have blended with a renewed Venetian style. 61 luxurious guest rooms and 21 sumptuous suites, including some with canal views, are replete with rare archival fabrics, the finest Italian marbles and a stunning array of new and original chandeliers from Murano, as well as the latest technology and sumptuous beds.
Gritti’s famous terrace has long been a social hub. The splendid Bar Longhi features some of the best cocktails in Venice and the Club del Doge Restaurant features regional specialties, casual chic by day and a more formal affair at dinner. The palace is also home to the Gritti Epicurean School, an informal Venetian open kitchen that hosts wine tastings, cooking workshops and celebrations.
Well located by the Grand Canal on the southern edge of the San Marco district, Venice’s great opera house, cathedrals, museums and palazzos are all close by.
→ Find out moreVenice
Overview
Set on the lively Riva degli Schiavine promenade, Hotel Danieli is the epitome of Venetian style and elegance.
On entering the hotel you are welcomed by rich golds and reds, marble floors and beautiful tapestries. This classic décor is carried throughout the 210 rooms and suites which feature high ceilings, Murano glass lamps and large windows through which you can take in the views of the canal or the cobbled streets of the city.
The rooftop restaurant allows guests to gaze out across the Grand Canal, watching the gondolas glide across the water while enjoying traditional Venetian cuisine influenced by the spice traders that used to pass through the city. For a pre-dinner aperitivo or a morning cappuccino, Bar Dandle with its marble columns and chandeliers has plenty of atmosphere.
You’re ideally situated to explore Venice, just minutes from the Bridge of Sighs, Piazza San Marco and the Palace Gardens.
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On the water
Explore on foot
Island hopping
Island hopping
Gondola yard tour and ride
Providing a real ‘backstage’ insight to how Venice’s famous gondolas are crafted and maintained, this is a chance to see the boats out of the water, which allows visitors to appreciate the asymmetric shape and examine at all the boat’s components. And no visit to Venice would be complete without experiencing a gondola ride. Travel like a Venetian on a gondola down the city’s iconic canals.
St. Mark’s Square with the Doge’s Palace and Basilica
If you imagine landing in Venice from the sea, the first thing you see rising out of the water is the unmistakable shape of the Doge’s Palace – the city’s most famous building. Your historical walking tour will then take you through backstreets to the shimmering, mosaic-filled St. Mark’s Basilica. Its architecture is a mixture of Byzantine, Roman and Venetian.
Murano, Burano and Torcello
Visit Venice’s most famous islands, Murano, Burano and Torcello. Murano has been known since the 1200s for the art of glass making, and you’ll visit a glass factory. Burano is a picturesque fisherman island known for its brightly-coloured houses and lace school. See the women who still work this antique technique of lace making by hand. The last stop is Torcello, where you will see its beautiful cathedral with its mosaics dating back to the 1100s.
Private transfer from Venice to Florence via Bologna
Transfer in a private vehicle to your hotel in Florence, stopping en route in the city of Bologna for lunch and a stroll around the historic city.
Enchanting Florence
Surrounded by rolling Tuscan hills, the beautiful city of Florence is one of Europe’s most enchanting and historically influential cities. If anywhere in the world can claim to have shaped modern Western consciousness, it is Florence’s grand piazzas and palazzos. The world’s greatest Renaissance artworks and sculpture can be found at every turn in the historical centre, an area that can be traversed on foot in under an hour but would take infinitely longer to properly explore. Make sure you head out on a gelato tour, discovering how it’s made and, of course, sampling a variety of flavours.
Where you could stay
Florence
Highlights
- 37 rooms and 7 suites
- Le Bistrot Restaurant and bar
- Spa with hammam
- Heated outdoor swimming pool
- Bicycles
- Gym
- Complimentary shuttle service to the city
Overview
Overlooking the historic Boboli Gardens, near to Florence’s centre, Villa Cora is an exquisitely restored 19th century palace that offers a step back into the grandeur of neoclassical Florence, with eclectic and occasionally bizarre artistic styles of the period.
Built at a time when Florence was the cosmopolitan capital of the newly created Kingdom of Italy, Villa Cora earned its reputation by hosting guests such as Princess Eugenie, wife of Napoleon III, and the Russian composer Tchaikovsky, being considered the most beautiful residence of the Tuscan capital. It became a grand hotel in 1960, during another of Florence’s most stylish periods.
The hotel has 44 rooms and suites, divided into the main villa and in two adjacent buildings. The majority are in the main villa, split over four floors, each of which has been characterised around a theme, one with extravagant frescoes, another taking Moorish influence from the Orient. Villino Eugenia is a small guesthouse overlooking the Boboli Gardens, containing 13 accommodations, each decorated and furnished according to the bourgeois styles of the late 19th century. Lastly, La Follie, a small guesthouse located at the edge of the park that surrounds Villa Cora has a particular charm and discretion with only two rooms for complete privacy.
Le Bistrot Restaurant offers seasonal produce, during the winter months in the splendid Moorish Room with its domed ceiling with original frescoes by Antonio Caremmi, and in the summer outdoors in the winter garden by the side of the swimming pool, where guests can relax in an elegant yet informal environment.
The Benè spa is located on the lower floor of Villino Eugenia and is equipped with a small gym, tepidarium, sauna and Turkish hammam. The wellness centre offers Asian and European massages as well as beauty treatments. There is also a large heated outdoor pool shaded by vast oak trees.
→ Find out moreFlorence
Overview
The Hotel Savoy could not be more centrally located if it tried, located on Florence’s Piazza della Repubblica, next to the Duomo, with all the famous attractions of the city within walking distance.
Interiors are the work of designer Olga Polizzi, combining sleek and contemporary Italian with the building’s historic form, along with some more playful touches throughout. There are 88 rooms and 14 suites, including the two bedroom Repubblica Suite and its spectacular view over the square, and the Brunelleschi and Signoria suites that each enjoy private steam rooms.
Hotel Savoy’s restaurant, Irene, is overseen by renowned chef Fulvio Pierangelini and offers authentic flavours using local seasonal products, with some light and healthy reinventions of Tuscan classics. During warmer months, guests can enjoy al fresco dining on the terrace and soak up the atmosphere.
→ Find out moreFlorence
Overview
Set amidst lush trees and terraced gardens, the Belmond Villa San Michelle enjoys the most perfect view over Florence from its hilltop position. Dating back to a 15th century monastery, the renaissance villa’s facade has been attributed to Michelangelo, as much a part of Italy’s heritage as the cathedrals and galleries down the hill. Today, Belmond Villa San Michele is recognised as one of the country’s finest boutique hotels.
Each of the 20 rooms and 25 suites are unique, with sumptuous antiques, along with cotto-tile flooring and bright Florentine textiles. Separate from the main building, the exquisite Limonaia Villa contains three suites located in the convent’s former orangery, all with incredible views. These can be connected together to create perhaps the most glamorous villa in Tuscany, a unique haven for families and groups of friends, or for a special occasion such as a wedding or exclusive party.
Belmond Villa San Michelle is naturally a favourite among honeymooners, however there are special services tailored towards family adventures, and world famous the cookery school is a destination in itself. A huge range of activities are on offer, such as exclusive historical tours and rafting under the Ponte Vecchio, and there is a complimentary shuttle to and from Florence itself. At the hotel, relax amongst the immaculate gardens and at the spa, swim in the panoramic pool or take part in one of the renowned culinary classes.
Dining options here include one of the best restaurants in Florence – the romantic La Loggia – and more laid back cuisine at the Pool Restaurant, each with their own bar, as well as the Cloister Bar in the old monastery.
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River trip
Treasure hunt
Medieval meander
Medieval meander
Boat trip along the River Arno
Glide along the Arno River, floating by the Uffizi and passing under the Ponte Vecchio. You’ll see the city in a new way as you drift towards the Santa Trinita bridge and Carraia bridge as your guide recounts amazing stories about the city and its architecture.
Renaissance treasure hunt
Discover the beautiful city of Florence with a fun and educational treasure hunt, suitable for children aged between six and 11. They’ll be given an old city map and a compass to guide them through the city, taking in the highlights. The focus of the hunt is Renaissance history and they’ll have fun learning how coded letters were written and deciphering them.
Medieval Tuscany tour: Siena and San Gimignano
Built on three steep hills and unchanged since medieval times, Siena is one of Tuscany’s most beautiful towns. Admire its major sites like the Piazza del Campo, where the famous horse race takes place every year, as well as explore quieter backstreets to appreciate Siena’s complex and rich history. Continue to San Gimignano, famous for its medieval skyscrapers, high walls and narrow streets that typify the image of a Tuscan hill town.
Head to the coast
Discover the spectacular Amalfi Coast, situated like an amphitheatre among the mountains and the sea. Visit Ravello with its villas, amazingly beautiful gardens and extraordinary views along the coast. You’ll also take in the wonderful Positano, considered to be one of the most picturesque of all Italy’s coastal resorts.
Where you could stay
The Amalfi Coast
Overview
A Ravello establishment, the gracious Palazzo Avino combines its long history, unwavering modern luxury and timeless coastal views.
Much the current structure was built on the remains of a 12th century palace in 1710 by the Sasso family, then renovated in the 19th century as the grand Hotel Palumbo that hosted a long list of royalty, aristocrats, actors, poets and writers. Reborn again two decades ago, it has consistently rated amongst the best hotels in Europe ever since.
There are 43 rooms and suites, the pick which have wonderful sea views while others look back to the mountain or charming town. Interiors are bright with a selection of period furniture and typically resplendent Italian bathrooms.
Dining here is an absolute highlight. The famed Rossellinis offers Michelin-star dining and fine regional wines, while Terrazza Belvedere is a more casual affair with panoramic views. Caffé dell’Arte is the place apertivos and cocktails and the Lobster & Martini Bar is self explanatory.
The heated pool, gym, full service spa and rooftop solarium’s jacuzzis make the most of the views. Another unique feature is the Palazzo Avino’s Clubhouse by the Sea. Just 15 minutes away, on a complimentary shuttle service to the small town of Marmorata, guests have use of the beach platforms, a small swimming pool and casual Clubhouse Restaurant.
→ Find out moreThe Amalfi Coast
Highlights
- 50 luxury rooms and suites
- Seasonal restaurants
- Wine cellar
- Spa
- Private seafront deck
Overview
Built upon the ruins of a Roman villa in the 18th century and a landmark hotel ever since, the Bellevue Syrene brings bright modern style and refined service to a setting above Sorrento that has long attracted emperors, artists and intellectuals.
From its precarious cliffside position, views spill out across the Gulf of Naples to Vesuvius in the distance. 50 luxury rooms and suites are elegantly furnished, interiors blending traditional features and historical artefacts with more contemporary finishes. Most boast sea views and balconies. The breathtaking Roccia ‘Rock’ Suite is set in an ancient Roman grotto and has a large hydrotherapy bath tub opposite the bed, as well as sea views.
Outside there is a pool on the terrace as well as a lift down to sun beds and parasols on the private seafront deck.
Dining here is seasonal, with the splendid panoramic terraces of La Pergola perfect for hot summer days, and the Gli Archi’s warm and welcoming style for winter. The Mimmo Jodice room, decorated with some of the pictures of the great Neapolitan photographer, completes the hotel’s dining options. There is also a club lounge and wine cellar.
Guests can explore Sorrento, the nearby ancient ruins of Pompeii and picturesque Positano. Capri is a short ferry ride away and offers fantastic designer shops and restaurants.
→ Find out moreThe Amalfi Coast
Highlights
- Infinity swimming pool
- Hotel restaurant
- Poolside bar and restaurant
- Scenic helicopter flights available
- Classic car rides available
Overview
Perched atop Ravello’s cliff, the beautifully restored Caruso is one the finest spots from which to soaking in the Amalfi Coast. The current building dates back to 1800, the original palace 700 years further still, and its 50 rooms and suites in an array of shapes and sizes are fittingly replete with marble, original frescos and Italian antiques. Many enjoy wonderful vistas of the coast, sea and fragrant gardens. The Caruso’s two Exclusive Suites have their own terrace and garden. The Belvedere Restaurant serves up Italian and local Neapolitan delicacies, in the summer to be enjoyed out on the terrace. There is also a restaurant by the famous infinity pool with a wood-fired pizza oven, an adjoining bar, and the elegant piano bar indoors. Explore the coast on complimentary cruises to Amalfi and Positano, scenic helicopter flights on request, or perhaps take out vintage Vespas or classic car along the coastal road.
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Cruising Capri
Fabulous flavours
Suspended in time
Suspended in time
Capri day trip by private speedboat
Head out into the Gulf of Naples across to the beautiful island of Capri. The tour will visit Li Galli Islands, the legendary home of the sirens who lured Ulysses to the islands with their enchanting singing. This is also an ideal place for snorkelling, with its clear waters and underwater treasures. Tide permitting, you will approach the famous Blue Grotto where it will be possible to get inside using a local boat.
Pasta, mozzarella and limoncello
Handcrafted pasta is definitely something the Campania region can be proud of. Today you’ll enjoy a tour of a local factory that has been producing pasta since 1848. Everything they make is handmade and the pasta is extruded through bronze, a method that has been used for centuries. The resulting rough, porous surface means the pasta holds the sauce well, giving dishes a wonderful flavour. You’ll also visit a local mozzarella cheese factory, the oldest on the Sorrentine peninsula, that also produces the region’s famous limoncello.
Pompeii tour
In August of 79 AD, Vesuvius had been rumbling for some days and it is estimated that a large part of the population of 20,000 had been evacuated; those that were left were as if suspended in time, as the plaster casts made of the bodies that were found shows. Excavation started in the 18th century and continues to this day. You will get to walk Roman streets, look into bars, stroll into Patrician villas, complete with frescoes and mosaics, there is even a mosaic doormat, saying ‘beware of the dog’.
Overnight in Rome
Spend your final night in Rome before your international flight home, thinking back on your incredible Italian adventure, and perhaps even plotting your next.
Where you could stay
Rome
Highlights
- 91 rooms and 31 suites
- Le Jardin de Russie restaurant
- Stravinskij Bar
- De Russie Spa
- Fitness centre
Overview
Once hosting aristocratic travellers, Russian royalty and renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Jean Cocteau, a half century hiatus as an office building ended with a glorious restoration and re-establishment of this Roman icon.
The Hotel de Russie lies between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo on the Via del Babuino, within easy walking distance of Rome’s main attractions, fashion houses and Via Condotti. Though surrounded by the ceaseless buzz of the city, behind the hotel’s unassuming frontage, is a soothing tranquility – both in design and ambiance – and vast private 18th century terraced gardens, a rare oasis away from it all.
122 rooms and suites are thoroughly up to date amenity wise, complete with Bisazza mosaic and Carrara marble in the bathrooms. Some feature private terraces and many rooms have views over Rome, Piazza del Popolo or the garden.
The Stravinskij Bar is renowned for its apertivos, while Le Jardin de Russie and its chef, two-Michelin-star chef Fulvio Pierangelini, serve up simple yet refined dishes Mediterranean dishes in one a most romantic of settings. Furthering the Hotel de Russie urban oasis credentials is the De Russie Spa, one of Rome’s best health clubs.
→ Find out moreRome
Overview
Built the late 19th century, this grandiose villa has stayed with the Trivelli family ever since, through hosting meetings of the National Council of Italian Women, high society gathering of Counts and Countess to being the residence of Piero Trivelli, a sensitive writer and refined poet. In 2004, son of Count Piero decided to convert the historic residence into the fabulous boutique hotel of today.
Communal areas are full of antiques and art, the library is listed and lounge areas steeped in a dark wood, old world luxury. Outside are peaceful formal gardens that form a walled oasis away from the Rome’s bustle.
Overlooking the greenery are just 12 rooms, warm and welcoming, with subtle modern touches enhancing the historic charm of the original features. Large beds are clad in Fiandra linen sheets and alpaca or cashmere throws. Bathrooms are spacious and lined in marble, and all have baths as well as showers. Well-stocked minibars are complimentary.
On the other side of the garden are two Garden Suites and a large apartment ideal for families, small groups or those seeking privacy.
Breakfast is a vast spread and afternoon tea is served by the fireplace, whilst dinners can be arranged in the garden during summer months. There is also a wonderful spa and health centre offering restorative wellness therapies.
Centrally located between the Via Nazionale and the Quirinal Palace, the Colosseum is a 15 minute walk away, the Trevi Fountain half that, and many of the city’s best restaurants are just around the corner.
→ Find out moreEvery detail of our Italian adventure was planned. We didn’t have to worry abut where to go, where to get tickets, or how to get there. It made the whole vacation so relaxing and enjoyable. It was a trip of a lifetime! Thanks so much Jacada Travel