Grand Tour of Italy

Comfortable, broken-in walking shoes are the most important item to pack — students will walk extensively on cobblestones in Rome, cross dozens of canal bridges in Venice, and navigate hilly streets in Florence. A second pair of shoes (sandals or casual shoes) is useful for evenings and the Amalfi Coast/Capri ferry days. Lightweight, breathable layers work best, as temperatures can vary between northern Italy (Venice, Florence) and the warmer south (Amalfi, Capri). Students visiting Rome's Vatican must have shoulders covered and knees-length clothing. A small daypack for water, sunscreen, and a camera is essential for full-day excursions.

The Grand Tour of Italy covers an impressive amount of ground, and the time in each city varies. Rome and Florence, as the two cultural centrepieces, typically receive the most time (2+ days each), while Pisa, Assisi, Venice, and the Amalfi Coast / Capri are usually 1-day visits or half-day excursions. The itinerary is well-paced — guided tours focus on must-see highlights efficiently, and free time is built in for personal exploration. Students often say the variety is one of the best parts: each day brings a completely different Italian experience.

Entrance tickets to the Vatican Museums and Colosseum are not included on the Grand Tour of Italy. Your group will enjoy an expertly guided tour of Rome's iconic landmarks, including the exterior of the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Capitoline Hill, and St. Peter's Square and Basilica.

If Colosseum or Vatican entrances are a priority for your group, we'd recommend considering Bell'Italia (which includes entrance to the Colosseum and Roman Forum) or From Rome to Athens (which includes entrances to both the Colosseum and Vatican). Your EF Tour Consultant can walk you through the options and help you find the best fit.

EF Tours books comfortable, safe hotels with private bathrooms at each destination. Meals include daily breakfast at the hotel and most dinners at local restaurants, giving students a genuine taste of regional Italian cuisine — from Roman pasta to Neapolitan pizza. Lunches are on your own, which students typically enjoy as an opportunity to discover local trattorias and street food. Students with dietary restrictions or allergies should notify EF Tours during the booking process.

Students enjoy stunning coastal views as the tour winds along the dramatic Amalfi cliffside road, followed by a ferry crossing the Bay of Naples to the island of Capri. On Capri, students explore the island's charming town centre, take in panoramic views of the Mediterranean, and experience an island atmosphere completely different from the historic cities earlier in the tour. It's a refreshing change of pace and a student favourite for unforgettable photos.