Experience an all-inclusive retreat to Italy’s most iconic destinations. Begin your 9-day/8-night Italian journey in Rome and explore the Colosseum, wander through the Roman Forum, and toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain before stepping inside the awe-inspiring Pantheon.
A visit to Vatican City offers the chance to see the masterpieces of the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. Between guided discoveries, savor authentic Roman cuisine in charming piazzas and soak in the atmosphere that makes Rome unforgettable.
From Rome, travel north to Florence, the heart of Tuscany, where you can admire Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia and stroll across the Ponte Vecchio while taking in the city’s architecture. Venture into the rolling hills of Chianti for wine tastings, where world-renowned vintages are paired with Tuscan cuisine.
A guided day trip to Siena reveals medieval streets and the Piazza del Campo. This portion of the journey blends art, wine, history, and breathtaking countryside views into a quintessential Tuscan experience.
Conclude your adventure in the enchanting canal city of Venice. Glide along the Grand Canal, explore St. Mark’s Square, and step inside Doge’s Palace to uncover the legacy of the Venetian Republic. Lose yourself in quiet backstreets, discover artisan boutiques, and enjoy fresh seafood overlooking the water as gondolas drift by.
From ancient ruins to Renaissance masterpieces and romantic canals, this carefully curated Italian escape captures the very best of Italy in one unforgettable journey.
What to Expect:
Please note that this retreat is more active in nature. Traveling between Italy’s remarkable cities requires time on the move and exploring them involves a fair amount of walking. Many historic areas feature uneven steps and cobblestone streets, so comfortable footwear and steady mobility are essential.
As with all of our retreats, participation in each activity is entirely optional. Should you prefer to skip an excursion or enjoy independent time on any given day, you are always welcome to do so—this is your vacation, and we want you to experience it in the way that feels best to you.
Kindly keep in mind that the itinerary may be adjusted due to weather conditions or availability.
Let Us Help You Plan:
Please arrange airfare arriving in Rome and departing from Venice, Italy.
Need assistance booking your flights? Amy Walker, Owner of Walker Wellness Retreats, is happy to help arrange your travel. Reach out directly at amy@walkerwellnessretreats.com for personalized support.
What's Included?
Accommodations:
9 days/ 8 nights in highly rated accommodations
Airport Transfers
Airport transfers in to Rome and out of Venice
Transportation
All transportation during the trip, including train tickets Rome - Florence - Venice
Entrance Fees
Entrances fees for activities and excursions
Guided Excursions
Guided excursions with English speaking guide
Gratuity
Gratuities for tour guides, restaurant staff, and drivers
All Meals
From Dinner on Day 1 to Breakfast on Day 9
Trip Assistance
What's not included?
Airfare
International Airfare in to Rome and out of Venice
Additional Items
Souvenirs, drinks, snacks, or other personal items
Additional Excursions
Optional tours recommended for arrival or departure day
Additional Gratuity
Gratuities of a personal nature (hotel staff, spa services, etc.)
Insurance
Travel insurance and medical insurance (highly recommended)
Travel Fees
Any travel-related fees (visas, passports, baggage, etc.)
Amy Walker is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the founder of Walker Wellness Retreats. She launched the company in 2016 to combine her passions for Travel, Wellness, and creating transformative experiences.
With a deep commitment to helping others travel the world, Amy leads 6–10 international retreats each year, providing all-inclusive experiences that foster connection, self-discovery, and personal growth. She loves showing people the world and creating meaningful, unforgettable travel experiences.
When she’s not guiding retreats, Amy works as an online mental health therapist, specializing in helping individuals and couples overcome barriers, improve communication, and build fulfilling relationships. Her approach integrates evidence-based techniques with compassionate, solution-focused support.
Amy enjoys international travel, wine tasting, whale watching, and spending time outdoors. She runs Walker Wellness Retreats alongside her husband, Brian Walker, ensuring each retreat is a seamless and enriching experience.
Amy has visited over 80 countries and counting, with a personal goal to reach 100 countries and all seven continents.
Upon arrival into Rome's Leonardo da Vinci International Airport (FCO) you will be greeted by your Trip Host, Amy, who will guide you to your private transfer to the hotel for luggage drop-off and check-in.
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure until we gather this evening for our group orientation and welcome dinner, which officially marks the beginning of the retreat.
We kindly ask that you pack light, as storage space is limited throughout the journey. Due to space constraints in our vehicles and on the trains, each guest may bring one suitcase plus one handbag or backpack.
If you arrive earlier in the day, you may have additional free time before the retreat begins. Below are a few optional excursions you may wish to arrange independently. We recommend booking in advance to secure availability.
3 in 1 Cooking Class near Navona: Fettuccine, Ravioli & Tiramisu
Rome Wine & Food Tour in Trastevere Jewish Ghetto Campo de Fiori
Rome Highlights by Golf Cart: Private Tour
Please meet in the lobby at 7:00 PM for a brief orientation and introductions before walking to dinner as a group at the nearby Pro Loco Pinciano, right around the corner from the hotel.
Meals Included: Dinner
Overnight Stay: The Tribune - JDV by Hyatt
Begin the day with breakfast at your leisure in the hotel before meeting your guide for a day tour of Rome. Please meet in the hotel lobby at 9:00 AM, and be sure to bring your ID.
Your driver will escort you to the Colosseum area, where you will meet your private guide and begin your exploration of one of Rome’s most iconic landmarks. This monument, known worldwide for its gladiator contests, offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Roman life.
Following your visit, you will transfer to the Trevi Fountain to begin a walking tour through the heart of Baroque Rome. Along the way, you’ll pass the Column of Marcus Aurelius, Palazzo Montecitorio, Palazzo Madama, Piazza Navona, and the Campidoglio, before enjoying a guided visit inside the remarkable Pantheon.
Known as the “church of all religions,” the Pantheon is breathtaking in its harmony and scale. Its dome is the largest unreinforced concrete dome in the world and opens to the heavens through its central oculus. This architectural masterpiece continues to inspire centuries later.
Your final stop will be the Basilica of San Pietro in Vincoli, home to the mausoleum commissioned by Michelangelo as the funeral monument for Pope Julius II.
At the conclusion of the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy. Have a late lunch, visit the nearby Galleria Borghese or simply relax in your room before meeting the group at 7:00 PM for dinner at the hotel's Terrazza Borghese restaurant.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight Stay: The Tribune, JDV by Hyatt
After a final breakfast in Rome, meet your guide at 8:30 AM, in front of the hotel for a private day excursion to Vatican City.
*Remember shoulders and knees MUST be covered when visiting religious sites.*
Vatican City is the world’s smallest sovereign state and home to one of the most extraordinary art collections on earth. During this private tour, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of the treasures housed within the Vatican Museums.
Upon arrival, you will meet your private guide and begin your exploration. The Vatican Museums showcase artists such as Michelangelo, Raphael, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and Giotto, among many others.
Your visit culminates in the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, where you will admire Michelangelo’s frescoes in reverent silence, including the powerful Last Judgment. You will also step inside the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica.
At the conclusion of the tour, your driver will return you to the hotel to collect your belongings before transferring you to the train station for your 2:55 PM Italo train to Florence.
Upon arrival in Florence, meet you driver in the train station for 45-minute drive from the Florence train station to Villa Petriolo. Take time to settle into your room before meeting the group at 7:00 PM for dinner at Osteria di Golpaja at the Villa.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight Stay: Villa Petriolo
Begin your day with breakfast at leisure before meeting the group for an 8:30 AM pick-up for our artisan guided exploration of Florence.
Spend the morning diving into the city’s rich artisan traditions, as our guide introduces us to a historic mosaic workshop dating back to the 1400s, where centuries-old techniques are still practiced today.
We’ll visit a master jeweler who will demonstrate the delicate art of shaping silver and gold, followed by a traditional paper mill that continues the intricate crafts of marbleizing and xylography on handmade paper.
Our final artisan stop showcases skilled leatherworkers transforming premium Italian leather into beautifully crafted belts, shoes, and handbags.
As we stroll between workshops, your guide will bring Florence’s artistic and architectural heritage to life—from Renaissance palaces to the medieval towers once built by rival families.
While many landmarks are best admired from the outside, we will step inside the magnificent Basilica of Santa Croce (skip-the-line tickets included) to experience its remarkable splendor firsthand.
At 1:00 PM, we’ll gather for a group lunch at a local Florentine restaurant.
The afternoon continues with a visit to the world-renowned Galleria dell'Accademia. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in some of the most celebrated masterpieces of the Renaissance, including David by Michelangelo.
Beyond David, the museum houses pieces by Sandro Botticelli, Pietro Perugino, Giambologna, and Filippino Lippi.
After our museum visit, we’ll continue with a guided walking tour to take in more of Florence’s beauty. Later in the afternoon, you’ll have free time to browse local shops before we reconvene for a casual pizza dinner at a neighborhood restaurant. Following dinner, we’ll return together to the hotel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight Stay: Villa Petriolo
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before beginning your day in the Tuscan countryside. At 9:00 AM, your private guide will pick you up from Villa Petriolo and escort you into the heart of Chianti.
Your first stop will be a historic winery in the renowned Chianti Classico region. Here, you’ll relax on a scenic terrace overlooking rolling vineyards and olive groves while savoring expertly paired wines.
Following a drive through Chianti’s rolling hills, we’ll sit down at 12:30 PM for a traditional Tuscan lunch. The afternoon continues with sightseeing through charming villages, medieval castles, and ancient abbeys.
Later in the afternoon we’ll visit a family-run cellar. You’ll meet the producers personally and learn about their distinctive winemaking techniques.
We’ll return to the villa to freshen up before gathering again at 7:00 PM for a group dinner at Osteria di Golpaja.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Villa Petriolo
After breakfast at the villa, gather as a group at 9:30 AM for another unforgettable day in the Tuscany region as you depart for Siena.
Upon arrival in Siena, embark on a two-hour guided tour with a professional local guide. You’ll discover Siena’s artistic and architectural treasures, while learning about the history of its 17 rival districts, or contrade, whose spirited competition continues today, most famously in the Palio di Siena.
Along the way, sample sweet local delicacies and take in the beauty of Piazza del Campo, one of Italy’s most spectacular medieval squares.
In the afternoon, we’ll head into the countryside for a pairing lunch and wine tasting at another historic winery in the Chianti Classico region. Known for its hospitality and exceptional wines, the estate’s experts will guide you through the nuances of the local vintages, perfectly paired with a delicious Tuscan lunch.
The afternoon continues with a stop and free time to explore San Gimignano. Its historic center, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is celebrated for its distinctive skyline of medieval towers and 14th- and 15th-century frescoes. Wander along the ancient walls, admire sweeping views of the Tuscan hills, browse local shops, and be sure to sample some of the area’s delicious gelato.
Return to the villa in time to freshen up before gathering again at 7:00 PM for a group dinner at Osteria di Golpaja.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight Stay: Villa Petriolo
Enjoy a final breakfast at the villa before we stay our farewell to Florence and the Tuscan region. At 8:30 AM meet your driver for pick up and transfer to the Florence train station for your 10:39 AM ITALO train to Venice.
Upon arrival in Venice, your tour guide will greet you and transfer you to your hotel. After settling into the hotel, have lunch at a nearby restaurant.
The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore on your own as you wish. Meet in the lobby of the hotel at 6:45 PM to walk to dinner, or meet the group at Antico Dolo for dinner as a group.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight Stay: Hotel Ai Reali
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel at your leisure before setting out to explore Venice’s most iconic landmarks.
At 10:00 AM, depart for a private city tour that begins with a guided visit to the magnificent Doge's Palace, whose lavish, oriental-inspired façade once welcomed princes, politicians, and ambassadors from across the world.
Behind its opulent halls and gilded ceilings lie hidden chambers—narrow offices, shadowy prisons, and even the notorious torture rooms. You’ll journey from the state apartments to the infamous lead-lined prison cells, retracing the legendary escape of Giacomo Casanova and walking beneath the wooden beams of the vast Sala del Maggior Consiglio.
The tour continues inside the St. Mark's Basilica, where mosaics and centuries of history make for an unforgettable experience. Following the tour, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
The afternoon is yours to explore Venice at your own pace. Wander the canals, browse artisan shops, or simply soak in the atmosphere before reconvening in the hotel lobby at 6:45 PM to walk together to dinner, or meet the group directly at the restaurant. At 7:00 PM, we’ll gather for dinner at Antico Calice.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight Stay: Hotel Ai Reali
After a final breakfast at your hotel, you will have free time to explore Venice on your own before your flight back home.
You can depart at any time this day. Airport transfers to Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) will be provided from the Hotel Ai Reali based on departure times.
Depending on your departure time, here are some suggested activities you can do if you find yourself with free time:
Tour of The Real Hidden Venice
Eat, drink, and repeat: Wine tasting tour in Venice
Market Tour and Cooking Class with a Venetian Chef
Venice Private Food Walking Tour With Locals: 6 or 10 Tastings
Meals Included: Breakfast
Passports & Documents: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your travel dates. Bring photocopies of your passport, tickets, and important documents.
Travel Insurance: Strongly recommended for health, trip cancellations, and lost belongings.
Currency: Euros are used in Italy. Bring some cash for small purchases; credit cards are widely accepted.
Stay hydrated, especially during walking tours
Keep personal items secure in crowded areas, and be mindful of pickpockets
Follow local guidelines and safety measures
Greet before you ask. Always say “Buongiorno” (good morning/afternoon) or “Buonasera” (good evening) when entering shops or restaurants.
Handshakes are standard for first meetings; friends may greet with light cheek kisses.
Use formal titles like Signore (Mr.) or Signora (Mrs.) until invited to be more informal.
Italians value personal presentation—dress neatly, especially in cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan.
Italians speak passionately and with expressive gestures—this is normal and not anger.
Dress modestly when visiting churches such as St. Peter's Basilica. Remove hats and shoulders and knees should be covered.
Speak quietly and avoid flash photography where prohibited.
Respect lines (queues), though they may appear informal.
Private transfers will be arranged for all tours and long-distance travel.
Walking is common in historic areas; prepare for stairs and cobblestones.
Public transport in cities is convenient but optional for this trip.
Validate train tickets before boarding regional trains.
No cappuccino after meals. Milky coffee drinks are typically enjoyed only in the morning.
Bread is used to accompany your meal—not as an appetizer with olive oil (that’s more of a tourist custom).
Keep your hands visible on the table (wrists resting on the edge is fine), but not elbows.
A small coperto (cover charge) is normal at restaurants.
Tipping is appreciated but modest, rounding up or leaving a few euros is sufficient.
Standing at the bar for coffee is cheaper than sitting at a table.
It’s common to linger and enjoy conversation—meals are not rushed.
Power adapters: Type C/F plugs for Portugal.
Wi-Fi is generally available at hotels, cafes, and restaurants.
Mobile coverage is good; consider an international SIM or roaming plan.
This is a private, small-group trip with flexibility built in.
Itinerary is subject to change due to weather, traffic, or local conditions.
Hotels may change based on availability, but alternative accommodations will be of similar quality.
Comfortable backpack/day bag for excursions.
Bring a water bottle and refill when possible.
Keep a small amount of cash for markets, tips, or small purchases.
Take time to enjoy the local culture, street life, and scenery—some of the best experiences are unplanned.
Here’s a helpful guide to the language in Italy to ensure a smooth and respectful experience:
Ciao – Hi / Bye (informal)
Buongiorno – Good morning / Good afternoon
Buonasera – Good evening
Arrivederci – Goodbye (formal)
A presto – See you soon
Per favore – Please
Grazie – Thank you
Grazie mille – Thank you very much
Prego – You’re welcome
Scusi – Excuse me (formal)
Mi scusi – I’m sorry / Excuse me
Permesso – May I? / Excuse me (to pass by)
Sì – Yes
No – No
Forse – Maybe
Come si chiama? – What is your name?
Mi chiamo… – My name is…
Piacere – Nice to meet you
Come sta? – How are you? (formal)
Bene – Good / Well
Così così – So-so
Colazione – Breakfast
Pranzo – Lunch
Cena – Dinner
Il menu – The menu
Posso ordinare? – May I order?
Cosa consiglia? – What do you recommend?
Sono allergico/a a… – I am allergic to…
Il conto, per favore – The check, please
Senza… – Without…
Con… – With…
Acqua – Water
Vino – Wine
Caffè – Coffee
Delizioso – Delicious
Dov’è…? – Where is…?
Bagno – Bathroom
Biglietto – Ticket
Stazione – Station
A destra – To the right
A sinistra – To the left
Vicino – Near
Lontano – Far
Quanto costa? – How much does it cost?
Caro – Expensive
Economico – Inexpensive
Numbers 1–10:
Uno – 1
Due – 2
Tre – 3
Quattro – 4
Cinque – 5
Sei – 6
Sette – 7
Otto – 8
Nove – 9
Dieci – 10
Preparing for a spring trip to Italy, requires thoughtful packing to ensure comfort for mild, spring-like days and readiness for cooler evenings and unique experiences.
In Central Italy (Rome, Florence, Tuscany) you can expect comfortable and pleasant weather, with averages from 50-65 degrees (Fahrenheit). Days are often warm enough for al fresco dining.
In Northern Italy (Venice) expect cool to mild with temperatures around 40-60 degrees. Rain can be more common here.
Here's a comprehensive packing list to help you prepare:
Passport
Copy of passport (both in physical and digital form)
Medications, with copies of your prescriptions
Wallet, cross-body bag or money belt with ID, credit cards and cash
Cell phone and charger, plus power adapters (Type L, C and F plugs)
Helpful Tip: You can withdraw euros from ATMs, and it's usually the most convenient way to get local currency. However, it's always a good idea to bring some petty cash just in case of an emergency. Be mindful of the denomination you carry, as some shops and vendors may not accept large bills.
Light or mid-weight shorts, skirts and/or light, long pants
Light or mid-weight short sleeve tops
Dresses, button down or collared shirts or smart casual outfits for dinners
Comfortable walking shoes (closed-toe preferred)
Sandals or flip-flops
Sun protective clothing (UPF)
Athletic clothing (if desired)
Sunglasses
Hat with brim
Sleepwear
Swimsuit
Scarf or sweater (for covering shoulders when entering religious sites or dressing up an outfit)
Light rain jacket or umbrella
Light layers and/or a jacket for cooler evenings
Toiletries
Sunblock, insect repellent
Power bank (don't forget to pack it in your carry-on luggage)
Camera, memory card, spare batteries
Daypack (for water, snacks, camera, etc..)
Reusable water bottle
Personal items (reading material, journal, etc..)
All Walker Wellness Retreats require a 25% non-refundable deposit of the total retreat price to secure your booking. Should you need to cancel your trip, your deposit will not be refunded regardless of the reason for cancellation.
For International Destinations, the next 25% is due 120 days before the trip, and the final remaining balance is due 90 days before departure.
Trips can be paid in full at any time. If booking after the final payment deadline, trip payment in full is due at time of booking.
Invoices NOT paid in full within 7 days of the above-mentioned deadlines are subject to trip cancellation. No refunds will be issued for trips canceled due to lack of payment.
BEFORE the final payment deadline: If you cancel your reservation before the final payment deadline, any additional payments made beyond the non-refundable 25% deposit will be refunded. However, the 25% deposit remains non-refundable.
AFTER the final payment deadline: If you cancel your reservation after the final payment deadline, all payments made (including the deposit and any additional amounts) are non-refundable due to financial commitments with our retreat venues, guides, and service providers.
In the unlikely event that Walker Wellness Retreats cancels a retreat, you will be given a 100% full refund.
We strongly encourage all guests to purchase travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unforeseen circumstances. For additional details on travel insurance coverage and pricing, visit the link below: