Produced by SilverKris for Intriq Journey
Italy is one of those endlessly fascinating destinations – steeped in antiquity and artistry, it attracts travellers far and wide with promises of timeless splendour. And while Italian cuisine is the most exported around the world, nothing beats tucking into local flavours while in the homeland. As the saying goes, “When in Rome…”
Whether you’re a foodie looking for a gastronomic adventure or you’re an art lover eager to pay pilgrimage at Italy’s best museums, this 7-day itinerary from Intriq Journey checks all the boxes. The best part is, travelling with Intriq means you get access to Intriq Elements – exclusive experiences and opportunities to go off the well-worn tourist track.
Day 1: Arrival in Rome
With its proliferation of outdoor ancient ruins, Renaissance-era churches and other treasured architecture, it’s easy to see why Rome is often known as an open-air museum. Start your Italian odyssey with a walking tour that takes you to the key sights in the city’s historical centre. Led by an expert tour guide, this three-hour tour includes highlights like the Spanish Steps, the Pantheon and the famous Fountain of the Four Rivers by Bernini. As night falls, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the Eternal City.
The Intriq Element: Rome has served as the backdrop for many iconic films and with Intriq, you can visit some of the key spots featured in the movies. Hop on a Vespa and immerse yourself in the world of Audrey Hepburn as you retrace her steps in Roman Holiday (1953) or catch a ride in a vintage car as you visit the filming locations of Paolo Sorrentino‘s The Great Beauty (2013).
Day 2: Explore the charms of Montepulciano and Pienza
From Rome, it’s a two-hour drive to the picturesque hilltop town of Montepulciano. This former Roman settlement still retains its old-world charm with elegant Renaissance palaces, ancient churches and sweeping vistas. In the afternoon, make your way to Pienza – about 20 minutes away by car – renowned for being the first Renaissance town in Europe. This quaint village is also famous for its pecorino, where the sheep cheese undergoes a unique ageing process in wooden barrels.
The Intriq Element: In Montepulciano, join a truffle hunter and his loyal dog to search for this culinary treasure in the woods before sitting down to a sumptuous truffle-themed lunch. In Pienza, go on a Vespa tour as you explore the pastoral charms of the Tuscan countryside before rounding off your day at a local farm where you can taste some of the best pecorino in the country.
Day 3: Experience medieval charm in Siena and Chianti
Today, you’ll visit the medieval city of Siena. Explore the ornate Siena Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece adorned with elaborate sculptures, and roam around the Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares. In the afternoon, venture into the scenic Chianti region where you’ll visit a boutique winery nestled in the hills of Tuscany. After a tour of the property, cap off the evening with a private wine-tasting session.
The Intriq Element: For those who enjoy keeping fit even while on holiday, our Intriq team can customise hikes according to your preferred level of difficulty. There is also the option to rent a bike and take a leisurely tour around the Tuscan countryside.
Day 4: Revisit the Renaissance in Florence
Your journey continues to Florence, the city that nurtured the Renaissance. Wander through the storied streets and alleyways of Florence’s medieval quarter where beautiful sculptures await at every corner. Make your way to the Accademia Gallery to stand before Michelangelo’s David or visit the Uffizi Gallery where masterpieces from Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci and Raphael adorn the walls, each painting telling a story of artistic brilliance.
The Intriq Element: Unleash your inner artist with hands-on experiences organised by Intriq. From learning how to paint your own frescoes to creating your own fragrances, these unique workshops offer you a chance to bring home a one-of-a-kind souvenir. There are even opportunities to learn how to make authentic Italian gelato!
Day 5: Soak in the charms of Venice
Arriving in Venice, you’ll find yourself in a city unlike any other. Start at the bustling Rialto Market, where you’ll get to see gorgeous fresh produce and sample local delicacies. Glide along the enchanting canals on a gondola, passing beneath charming bridges and beside historic palaces. Explore St. Mark’s Square, surrounded by architectural wonders like St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace. After a day of sightseeing, reward yourself with the classic Venetian spritz.
The Intriq Element: When you travel with Intriq, you get to avoid the tourist hordes with exclusive after-hours visits to top sights like the St Mark’s Basilica and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. There’s also the opportunity to take a peek inside the mysterious Scala Bovolo, famous for its multi-arch spiral staircase.
Day 6: Go on a boat tour of Burano and Murano
Famous the world over for its exquisite craftsmanship and rich, vivid colours, Murano glass is a highly prized object of desire. To learn more about the history of Murano Glass, hop on a boat and visit a centuries-old factory where you’ll meet a Murano Glass Master. From there, take a walk through the colourful houses of Burano and marvel at the intricate beauty of Burano lace.
The Intriq Element: After an inspiring morning spent with creative minds, get to work making your own Venetian mask under the tutelage of a local artisan or learn the secrets of constructing a traditional gondola from a local craftsman.
Day 7: Round of your trip in Italy’s fashion and design capital – Milan
Your Italian sojourn concludes in Milan, a city that effortlessly marries the contemporary with the historic. Together with your knowledgeable guide, visit the famed Piazza della Scala, pass through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II – also known as Italy’s oldest active shopping gallery – and marvel at the Duomo, the iconic Gothic cathedral that took six centuries to build. In the evening, take a tour of the elegant Navigli district where you get to sip on delicious cocktails and taste local treats.
The Intriq Element: What better way to experience Italy’s fashion capital than exploring Milan’s top boutiques accompanied by a fashion expert? Your guide will take you to the best ateliers in town, including places where you can get made-to-order apparel and accessories.
Italy beyond the postcard: A unique travel guide
Forget cookie-cutter tour packages where you spend most of your time jostling with crowds of tourists. Intriq Journey is a boutique travel specialist that prides itself on crafting personalised tours that allow their clients to explore their personal interests and passions. For more information, visit their website here.
