My Way: Italy in 13 Days sets you free in Venice, Verona, Varenna (Lake Como), the Cinque Terre, Florence, Siena, Assisi and Rome — for $2,000 less than our fully-guided Best of Italy in 17 Days tour.
For travelers who want to enjoy the freedom of independent travel — but with someone else handling all the hotel and transportation headaches — Rick Steves has created an "un-guided" travel experience that delivers the best of both worlds.
My Way: Italy in 13 Days gives you the freedom to decide your own daily sightseeing priorities and pace. We cut the stress by providing comfortable rooms in centrally-located hotels, private bus transportation from city to city, and a trip escort to help advise you along the way.
Single travelers, couples and families (kids 8 and up) are all welcome on Rick Steves' My Way tours.
To equip you for your free-spirited adventure, you'll have Rick Steves' Italy guidebook, Italian phrase book, and his Audio Europe™ app (or choose MP3/podcasts) packed with walking tours and radio interviews covering many of the places you'll be visiting.
"My Way" lets you experience the Best of Italy...your way!
You'll get all this!
- This is an "un-guided" tour — giving you the freedom (and responsibility) to manage your daily sightseeing schedule and meals
- A small, friendly group of 24-28 people will share our big, comfy bus during the trip, but not do organized sightseeing together
- A Rick Steves escort will manage the group's transportation and hotel arrangements, and provide advice for sightseeing, meals, etc.
- All group transportation by bus and boat from Venice to Rome
- 12 nights accommodations in memorable, centrally-located hotels
- All breakfasts are included
- All tips for escort and driver
- Free Audio Europe™ app (free app at iTunes or get free podcast/mp3 files from ricksteves.com) featuring Rick's audio walking tours of neighborhoods and museums in Florence, Venice and Rome. Also includes Rick's radio interviews with experts on destinations covered in this itinerary
- More free stuff including Rick Steves' Best of Italy guidebook, Italian phrase book, My Way: Italy Sightseeing Supplement, map, day pack, moneybelt and earplugs
- Guaranteed tour price, locked in the moment you make your deposit
- Optional single supplements — this tour has a limited number of private rooms for solo travelers for an additional fee
- Tour alum discount of $50 for each tour you've taken prior to 2012
- 50% discount on a consulting appointment with our in-house experts to assist with your pre- or post-tour travel plans
- Flexibility should you need to transfer, or cancel/interrupt your tour
- Costs not covered: As this is not a guided tour, you will be responsible for the cost of all your lunches, dinners, drinks, admissions, sightseeing, and non-group transportation. Be sure to plan and budget accordingly. See our Tour Conditions Agreement for important details regarding everything listed above
Daily itinerary
Sightseeing notes
(r) = reserve a time before you leave the USA
* = included in Rick's audio walking tours
Day 1: Welcome to Italy
Welcome to Italy! Depending on what time you arrive, today is a great day to simply get lost in Venice (remember, it's an island), exploring the alleys and cruising the canals. We'll meet at our hotel at 5 p.m. for a group get-together. Your escort will give an overview of the days ahead, answer your questions, and offer a quick orientation to our neighborhood. Then you're free for dinner on your own. Sleep in Venice (2 nights).
Day 2: Exploring Venice
The entire day and evening are yours to experience the Byzantine majesty of St. Mark's Basilica*, the formidable Doge's Palace*, the Titian-and-Tintoretto-packed Accademia* art gallery, maybe take in a church concert, waltz on St. Mark's Square, or pub-crawl your way through this unique city. No bus.
Day 3: To Varenna
We'll drive to Varenna this morning, stopping en route in Verona. You'll have time to explore Verona's medieval center, including the bustling Piazza Erbe market square, ornate tombs of the Scaligeri, and (of course) "Juliet's balcony." You'll also have time to grab lunch before we head to our final destination — the sleepy Lake Como village of Varenna. Sleep in Varenna (2 nights) Bus: 5 hrs.
Day 4: Cruising Lake Como
All you'll need is a Lake Como ferry boat pass, and you'll have the entire day and evening free to explore the villages and waterways of romantic Lake Como, including such elegant stops as Bellagio. Hike up into the alpine foothills for unforgettable vistas, or take an hour-long train trip to Milan for a day of city sightseeing. At breakfast, your escort can help you plan your day. No bus.
Day 5: Cinque Terre
Today's destination is Italy's Cinque Terre: five perfectly preserved fishing villages, laced together with hiking paths that meander between vineyards and the deep blue sea. After winding our way down to the seaside village of Levanto, we'll board a train for the 10-minute ride to Monterosso. We'll arrive late this afternoon, with plenty of time to enjoy Monterosso's pleasant eateries and ambiance. Sleep in Monterosso (2 nights). Train: ¼ hr. Bus: 4 hrs.
Day 6: Exploring the Cinque Terre
Wake up and smell the espresso. Enjoy a day of fresh air and sweeping Mediterranean views as you hike, train or boat between the trail-linked, hill-hugging villages of the Cinque Terre. Or pick just one and settle-in for the day, exploring the stairways and alleyways, sunning yourself on the rocks, or sipping cappuccino and catching up on your journal at an outdoor café. Feeling Lazy? Grab your favorite novel, head down to Monterosso's sandy beach where you can rent a beach chair and umbrella (insert nap here). For dinner tonight, enjoy what's local and fresh: the seafood and the "best pesto pasta in Italy." No bus.
Day 7: Florence and David
We'll drive straight to Florence this morning, so you can hit the ground walking. This afternoon is yours to explore the Renaissance city, including Brunelleschi's magnificent cathedral dome*, Ghiberti's Baptistery doors*, and other creations that helped define this world-changing era. You could even take time to visit the Accademia Gallery* (r) and marvel at works of sculptural genius: Michelangelo's rough-hewn Prisoners and his greatest masterpiece, David. Sleep in Florence (2 nights). Train: ¼ hr. Bus: 4 hrs.
Day 8: Renaissance Florence
Today is yours to devote time to the breathtaking Renaissance art of the Uffizi* (r) — home to the finest collection of Italian paintings anywhere — including works by Leonardo, Botticelli, Michelangelo and more. Or you could stroll across the delightfully medieval Ponte Vecchio, and visit several of the city's art-filled churches and museums, browse the colorful markets, and find a special trattoria for dinner on your own. No bus.
Day 9: Siena and Assisi
Today we'll venture into the heart of magical Tuscany, stopping for several hours in remarkable, pedestrian-friendly Siena — a "living museum" brimming with some of Italy's finest Gothic architecture and perhaps its best public square, Il Campo. Late this afternoon we'll make a modern-day pilgrimage to the hill town of Assisi. Sleep in Assisi (2 nights). Bus: 4 hrs.
Day 10: St. Francis' Assisi
In a time of unprecedented church wealth, St. Francis inspired a refocused spirituality through poverty, humility, and the beauty of nature in Umbria. You'll have all day and evening to experience the beautifully-frescoed Basilica of St. Francis, and wander through (and wonder at) this charming town and its surrounding hills. No bus.
Day 11: La Dolce Vita Rome
This morning we'll get an early start as we make our way from Assisi to Rome, with a quick stop for lunch along the way. Arriving at our Rome hotel this afternoon, you can enjoy dinner at the outdoor café of your dreams, then celebrate la dolce vita Roman-style, with an after-dinner stroll* through the floodlit heart of the city, lacing together the lively Campo de' Fiori, classy Piazza Navona, and splashy Trevi Fountain. Don't forget to taste some refreshing gelato along the way. Sleep in Rome (2 nights). Bus: 3 hrs.
Day 12: Roaming through Rome
Rome is the grand finale of our trip, packed with historical riches, cultural delights and an infinite supply of wows. Today, aided by Rick's audio tours, you could follow the footsteps of emperors through the Roman Forum*, Colosseum* and Pantheon*. If the Renaissance is more your speed, the immense St. Peter's Basilica* (home to Michelangelo's sublime Pietà) and the sprawling Vatican Museum* (r) (home to his mind-boggling Sistine Chapel) are a Metro or bus ride away. It's your final night in Rome, so get out and make it special. Salute! No bus.
Day 13: Tour Over After Breakfast
It's a breeze to reach Rome's airports by taxi or train. Your escort will help you with any post-tour planning, leaving you well prepared for the road ahead. Grazie e ciao!
Itinerary specifics subject to change.
Rick Steves tours are physically active!
This is an integral, essential part of the "back door" experience. On our My Way: Italy in 13 Days tour — among other things — you'll need to happily...
- Carry/roll your luggage over uneven pavement (several blocks possible) and up stairways to reach your hotel; then up several flights of stairs to reach your room.
- Sleep with no (or weak) air conditioning and street noise in some hotels.
- Be able to navigate towns and cities on your own.
- Be responsible for your own daily sightseeing, admissions, meals (except breakfasts) and non-group transportation.
Pre Tour
Getting ready for your Rick Steves' tour can be overwhelming, so we've put together some specific information on what you should know about this tour before you go. You'll also find more general information about "Getting Ready for Your Tour" on our Tour FAQ.
Sightseeing On Your Own
When you arrive in Venice, use your included Rick Steves' Best of Italy guidebook to get oriented. Try out a few words of Italian, and get over your jet lag with lots of fresh air and exercise.
Walking tours make a great introduction to any town. Use your Audio Europe™ app (free app for iPhone and Android) or get free podcast/mp3 files) which includes a wealth of Venice neighborhood walks and self-guided museum tours. Check your guidebook for museum hours (some are closed one day per week; some stay open late one day per week).
Remember, you will be in charge of your own sightseeing for ALL destinations on this trip. We strongly suggest you begin planning well before you fly to Italy! To make the best use of your time and to avoid standing in long lines in Florence and Rome, we strongly suggest you make reservations at the Uffizi Gallery, the Accademia Gallery and the Vatican Museum in advance from home. See your Rick Steves' Italy guidebook for details on how to reserve.
Transportation
There is more than one way to get to and from your tour. We recommend talking to your travel agent about "open jaws" airline tickets (flying into and out of different cities).
It's easiest to fly into Venice and home from Rome. Both Venice and Rome are major transportation hubs, making additional travel before or after your tour quite easy.
For links to helpful rail and air travel websites, go to www.ricksteves.com/plan/links and look under "Transportation."
Read Rick's Guide to Eurail Passes (www.ricksteves.com/rail) and decide if your travel plans merit a railpass (or contact our Rail Department for advice at rail@ricksteves.com or 425/771-8303, ext. 214). You can get a rough idea of costs from the above guide or Rick Steves' Italy guidebook.
Prior to your tour departure, you will receive detailed directions on how to get from the airport to your first tour hotel, as well as contact information for your first and last hotels in case you wish to book pre- or post-tour hotel accommodations.
For information about traveling in Europe, please see the appropriate Rick Steves guidebook. If you need more information about additional European travel or for specific questions about your tour, contact the Tour Department at 425/608-4217 or email tour@ricksteves.com.
Weather
Italy is usually sunny and warm (or often hot) in mid-summer, but cooler temperatures and rain are always possible. Spring days are usually mild and sunny. Autumn is typically warm but not hot, and nights can be cool. In either spring or fall, weather is a bit more unpredictable but very manageable with smart packing.
For more specific weather information, see www.weatherbase.com or www.weather.com.
Packing
While it is important to pack light, there is one thing we'd like you to consider including when packing for this tour. There are some great opportunities for hikes in the Cinque Terre. While hiking boots are not necessary, we recommend you bring a pair of sturdy walking shoes. For ideas on what to pack, check Rick's Packing List and our Women's Packing List.
Tour Member Raves from 2011 "My Way" Tours
Paul Orcutt, "My Way" Tour Escort
"Paul, our escort, was all we could ask for, and available if we needed him. He had knowledge of the area, transportation, and useful info in each area as to dining and sightseeing. I enjoyed his company."
— Richard in League City, TX
"The itinerary and the fact it was an 'un'-guided tour made this the perfect tour for me. Also I had been on a regular guided Rick Steves tour before and felt I would again end up with 20 or so of the best travel buddies ever to share all of the experiences with. What I expected is what I got."
— Robert in Hiawatha, KS
"This tour experience was excellent. In the past I have always traveled independently with Rick Steves' guidebooks, but the 'My Way' tour allowed the convenience of a tour to be blended with independent travel, which was appealing to me. The high quality of our tour experience is much appreciated and I will definitely consider another Rick Steves tour in the future."
— Jamie in Plattsburgh, NY
To see more comments on Rick Steves' tours, read through our tour member feedback.
Videos & More
This region is rich in history, art and culture. To help you get the most from your trip, we've put together this collection of travel resources from Rick's TV shows, radio interviews and articles, as well as recommended books, films and music.
Watch
Rick Steves' TV Clips & Shows
(For more Rick Steves' TV clips on this region, visit Rick on YouTube.)
Films
- Roman Holiday (1953)
- La Dolce Vita (1961)
- Cinema Paradiso (1990)
- Il Postino (1995)
- Life Is Beautiful (1997)
Listen
Rick Steves' Radio Interviews
(For more radio interviews on this region, see Rick's Audio Europe™ files for iPod, PC & MP3.)
Rick Steves' Audio Tours
- Venice: St. Mark's Square, St. Mark's Cathedral, Friari Church, Grand Canal Cruise
- Florence: Renaissance Walk, Uffizi Gallery, Accademia & Michelangelo's David
- Rome: Pantheon, St. Peter's Basilica, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Roman Forum
Rick Steves Audio Europe™
Music
- Opera: Puccini, Rossini, Verdi, Andrea Bocelli, Enrico Caruso, Luciano Pavarotti, Ezio Pinza, Three Tenors
- Classical: Vivaldi's Four Seasons
- Pop/rock: Pino Danieli, Dean Martin, Mina, Laura Pausini, Eros Ramazzotti
- Movie Soundtrack: Big Night
Read
Rick Steves' Articles
(For more articles on this region, see Rick's Best Destinations.)
Books: Non-Fiction
- Rick Steves' Italy (included with tour)
- Italian Days — Barbara Grizzuti Harrison
- Italian Neighbors — Tim Parks
- The Italians — Luigi Barzini
- Under the Tuscan Sun — Frances Maye
- Excellent Cadavers — Alexander Stille
Books: Fiction
- Romeo and Juliet; The Merchant of Venice; Much Ado About Nothing; The Two Gentlemen of Verona; and The Taming of the Shrew (among others) — William Shakespeare
- The First Man in Rome — Colleen McCullough
- I, Claudius — Robert Graves
- The Leopard — Giuseppe Tomasi di Lampedusa
- A Soldier of the Great War — Mark Helprin
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