Culture, Crafts, and Christmas in Italy Tour
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Dec 3rd to 14th, 2025
$6530
Based on 12 Pax Group
Per Person/Double Occupancy
LOCATIONS
Florence
Volterra
San Gimignano
Bolzano
Innsbruck, Austria
Venice
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
Experience the magic of Italy on this exclusive 12-day journey through Florence, Tuscany, Bolzano, and Venice. Explore Renaissance masterpieces, immerse yourself in hands-on workshops, and indulge in Italy’s rich culinary heritage. Discover medieval hilltop towns, wander through festive Christmas markets, and enjoy exclusive experiences, including a Venetian costume fitting and a private cooking class at a Tuscan vineyard. This carefully curated itinerary blends history, culture, and local traditions, offering an unforgettable adventure in some of Italy’s most iconic and enchanting destinations.
Contact us now to reserve your spot and awaken the wanderlust within you! Call +1.571.239.3889 to secure your place in this empowering journey.
This Tour includes:
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Private airport transfers upon arrival and departure
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Centrally located accommodations in Florence, Bolzano, and Venice
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Daily breakfast at the hotel
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3 Dinners, ad 3 Lunches
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Guided city tours in Florence, Bolzano, and Venice
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Hands-on workshops, including paper marbling and bookbinding
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Exclusive visit to a Venetian costume atelier with a professional photoshoot
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Cooking class and wine pairing at a Tuscan vineyard
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First-class train tickets from Florence to Bolzano and Bolzano to Venice
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Private transportation for day trips to Volterra, San Gimignano, and Innsbruck
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Welcome and farewell dinners in authentic local settings
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Entrance fees to selected museums and historical sites
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Time to explore Christmas markets and shop for unique local crafts
What is not included in the tour package?
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International airfare to and from the starting and ending destinations. Please contact Lorna Holland if you need help you purchase the correct flight to Italy.
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Travel insurance (highly recommended)
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Personal expenses, souvenirs, and optional activities
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Meals not specified in the itinerary
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Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
Itinerary:
Day One – Wednesday, December 3rd, 2025
Arrival in Florence
Welcome to Florence! Upon arrival, guests will be privately transferred to our centrally located hotel, where you can settle in and unwind. After check-in, join us for a welcome drink reception to meet your fellow travelers and kick off this unforgettable Italian journey.
Day Two – Thursday, December 4th, 2025
Exploring Florence
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel.
Embark on a guided walking tour of Florence, visiting iconic landmarks such as Piazza della Signoria, the majestic Duomo, the famous Ponte Vecchio, and more.
Enjoy free time for lunch and independent exploration. You may choose to visit the renowned Uffizi Gallery, wander through the charming streets, or indulge in some shopping.
In the evening, gather for a festive Welcome Dinner and savor traditional Tuscan cuisine.
Overnight: Hotel in Florence
Day Three – Friday, December 5th, 2025
Tuscan Adventure: Volterra & San Gimignano
7:30 AM: Breakfast at the hotel.
8:30 AM: Depart for Volterra, a picturesque hilltop town known for its alabaster craftsmanship. Enjoy a scenic 1.5-hour drive.
10:00 AM: Arrive in Volterra for a guided tour, including a visit to an alabaster workshop to learn about this ancient craft.
1:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a vineyard, featuring local Tuscan cuisine.
3:00 PM: Travel to San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers and charming streets. Take time to explore, sample world-renowned gelato, or browse local ceramics.
5:00 PM: Depart for Florence and return to the hotel.
Evening: Dinner at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Florence
Day Four – Saturday, December 6th, 2025
Artisan Workshop & Cultural Exploration
7:30 AM: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Today, you will participate in a hands-on paper marbling and bookbinding workshop, an opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind keepsake.
The group will be split into two:
Group A (10:30 AM): Guided by a skilled artisan, decorate a sheet of paper using traditional marbling techniques and create a small hand-bound book.
Group B: During this time, explore Florence with Lorna, visiting Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia and the Medici Tombs at San Lorenzo. You will also have time to visit the Central Market to sample Tuscan delicacies and shop for leather goods.
12:30 PM: Lunch at leisure.
3:00 PM: Group B participates in the paper marbling and bookbinding workshop, while Group A explores with Lorna.
7:00 PM: Dinner at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Florence
Day Five – Sunday, December 7th, 2025
Tuscan Cooking & Wine Experience
7:30 AM: Breakfast at the hotel.
9:00 AM: Depart by private transfer to a Tuscan vineyard, where you will take part in a hands-on cooking class. Learn to prepare classic Italian dishes, then enjoy your creations during a wine-pairing lunch featuring local varietals.
2:30 PM: Return to Florence by private transfer.
7:00 PM: Dinner at leisure and a relaxing evening. Pack in preparation for tomorrow’s journey to Bolzano.
Overnight: Hotel in Florence
Day Six – Monday, December 8th, 2025
Train to Bolzano & Christmas Markets
Morning: Enjoy breakfast and check out of the hotel.
Travel in comfort aboard a first-class train from Florence to Bolzano.
Check into your centrally located hotel in Bolzano.
Spend the afternoon exploring Bolzano’s famous Christmas Markets, filled with festive decorations, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Bolzano
Day Seven – Tuesday, December 9th, 2025
Discover Innsbruck & Austrian Christmas Markets
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel.
Travel to Innsbruck, Austria, a charming Alpine city.
Visit the Tirolean Folk Museum, which showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Enjoy a hearty lunch at a traditional Austrian beer hall.
Spend the afternoon exploring the Innsbruck Christmas Market, renowned for its festive atmosphere.
Return to Bolzano for a relaxing evening.
Dinner at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Bolzano
Day Eight – Wednesday, December 10th, 2025
Bolzano & Train to Venice
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
Free time in Bolzano’s historic center. Visit the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology, home to Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,000-year-old mummy discovered in the Alps.
Lunch at leisure.
Take an afternoon train to Venice.
Check into your Venice hotel.
Evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Venice
Day Nine – Thursday, December 11th, 2025
Venetian Art & Glassblowing
Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel.
Visit a historic Venetian fabric atelier to learn about the centuries-old tradition of textile production.
Take a boat to Murano, the renowned glassmaking island, where you will witness a live glassblowing demonstration and learn about the evolution of this craft.
Evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Venice
Day Ten – Friday, December 12th, 2025
Venetian Costumes & Photography Experience
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.
Visit a Venetian costume studio for a private fitting of exquisite, historically inspired garments. Many of these costumes have been featured in iconic films and theater productions such as Casanova, The Merchant of Venice, and Farinelli.
Lunch provided by VaFeltre Tours, featuring Venetian cicchetti (traditional finger foods) and aperitifs.
Afterward, stroll through Venice’s picturesque streets and pose for a professional photoshoot in your elegant costume, with the city’s iconic canals and bridges as your backdrop.
Return the costumes and enjoy dinner at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Venice
Day Eleven – Saturday, December 13th, 2025
Farewell to Venice
Morning: Breakfast at the hotel.
Free time for last-minute shopping or exploring.
In the evening, take a private water taxi to a lavish Venetian palace for your final group dinner.
Enjoy a grand farewell dinner followed by an opera, baroque concert, or similar performance (based on availability).
Return to the hotel by water taxi.
Overnight: Hotel in Venice
Day Twelve – Sunday, December 14th, 2025
Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast before departing for the airport.
Private transfers will be arranged for your journey home.
Hidden Corridor
The Vasari Corridor, a secret passageway above the Ponte Vecchio, was built for the Medici family to walk unseen through the city.
Eternal Light
The Duomo’s dome, designed by Brunelleschi, was an engineering marvel that still mystifies architects today.
Ghostly Legends
Some say the Palazzo Vecchio is haunted by the spirit of Baldaccio d'Anghiari, a knight betrayed and murdered within its walls.
Alchemy & Codes
The intricate designs in Florence’s churches and palaces are said to hide alchemical and esoteric symbols.
Dante’s Cursed Stone
In Piazza Santa Margherita, there’s a stone where Dante supposedly sat. Legend says those who sit there may be doomed to unfulfilled love.
WHO' LEADING THIS TOUR?
Your journey through Italy is in the expert hands of Lorna Holland, a tour leader like no other. An American with deep Italian roots, Lorna embodies the perfect fusion of cultures, offering travelers an insider’s view of Italy with an American’s perspective. Fluent in English and Italian, she doesn’t just guide—she curates unforgettable experiences with warmth, expertise, and an unmatched passion for sharing la dolce vita.
Lorna Holland
Tour Guide Specialist
USA +1 571 239 3889
ITA +39 333 866 5242
PHOTO GALLERY OF PAST TOURS
At VaFeltre Tours, we believe that a truly unforgettable journey is about more than just getting from one place to another—it’s about experiencing every moment to the fullest, with expert guidance every step of the way. While other tour companies may advertise lower prices, what they don’t mention is the hidden costs: extra fees for activities, long stretches of unstructured free time, and little to no hands-on support.
With us, there are no surprise add-ons or optional excursions—everything is included. From immersive cultural experiences to expertly guided visits, your itinerary is carefully curated so that every day is filled with engaging activities, not just "free time" left for you to figure things out on your own. And the best part? You’re never alone. We are with you throughout the journey—not just as guides, but as translators, local experts, and personal travel companions who ensure that you feel comfortable, supported, and truly immersed in each destination.
Our tours are not designed for travelers looking for a budget trip with bare-bones service. We cater to those who want a seamless, enriching, and worry-free experience, where every detail is handled with care. With VaFeltre Tours, you’re not just booking a trip—you’re investing in quality, expertise, and an unforgettable journey crafted just for you.
Frequently Asked Questions:
General Information
1. What is included in the tour package?
The tour includes:
Accommodation in centrally located hotels
Daily breakfast
Select group meals (as indicated in the itinerary)
Private transfers and first-class train tickets
Guided tours and excursions
Entrance fees for included attractions
Hands-on workshops and experiences
2. What is not included?
International airfare
Travel insurance (highly recommended)
Meals not specified in the itinerary
Personal expenses and shopping
Optional activities during free time
3. What type of accommodation will we be staying in?
We will be staying in centrally located 4-star hotels in Florence, Bolzano, and Venice. Each hotel has been carefully selected for comfort, quality, and proximity to key attractions.
4. How do airport transfers work?
Upon arrival in Florence, you will be met by a private driver who will transfer you to the hotel. For departure, private transfers will be arranged to the airport based on your flight time.
Packing & Preparation
5. What should I pack for this trip?
Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestone streets can be uneven)
Layers and warm clothing (December in Italy can be chilly, especially in Bolzano and Innsbruck)
A stylish yet comfortable outfit for the farewell dinner
Travel adapter for European outlets
A small day bag for daily excursions
A reusable water bottle
6. Do I need a visa to travel to Italy and Austria?
U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa for short stays in Italy or Austria. If you are traveling from another country, please check visa requirements.
7. Will I need to exchange currency?
The official currency in Italy and Austria is the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash for small purchases, markets, and tipping.
Itinerary & Activities
8. How much walking is involved?
This is an active tour with daily walking excursions, including city tours, museum visits, and market explorations. While there will be time to rest, comfortable footwear is essential.
9. Can I skip an activity if I need a break?
Absolutely! While we encourage participation in all activities, you are free to opt out of any excursion and enjoy free time instead.
10. Are the workshops suitable for beginners?
Yes! The paper marbling, bookbinding, and cooking workshops are designed for all skill levels, and instructors will guide you through each step.
11. Will we have time for independent exploration?
Yes! There will be free time in Florence, Bolzano, and Venice for personal sightseeing, shopping, and dining.
Food & Dining
12. Are meals included?
Breakfast is included daily. Some group lunches and dinners are also included (as specified in the itinerary), while others are at your leisure.
13. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Yes, please inform us in advance of any dietary restrictions, and we will do our best to accommodate them during group meals.
Transportation & Logistics
14. How will we travel between cities?
We will use private transfers for day trips and a first-class train for long-distance travel between Florence, Bolzano, and Venice.
15. What is the luggage allowance on the train?
First-class train travel allows for ample luggage space, but we recommend packing light for easier mobility. A carry-on and one checked bag per person are ideal.
Weather & Seasonal Considerations
16. What is the weather like in December?
Florence: Cool, with temperatures around 40–55°F (5–13°C).
Bolzano & Innsbruck: Chilly, with possible snow and temperatures around 30–45°F (-1–7°C).
Venice: Cold and humid, with temperatures around 35–50°F (2–10°C).
17. Will the Christmas markets be open?
Yes! Our itinerary includes visits to the Christmas markets in Bolzano and Innsbruck, both famous for their festive decorations, handcrafted gifts, and seasonal treats.
Photography & Souvenirs
18. Will there be opportunities for professional photography?
Yes! A professional photographer will be present during the Venetian costume experience, capturing stunning images of you in historical attire against the city’s iconic backdrops.
19. What are some great souvenirs to bring home?
Alabaster crafts from Volterra
Handmade marbled paper and leather goods from Florence
Handblown Murano glass from Venice
Traditional Austrian Christmas decorations from Innsbruck
Booking & Payments
20. How do I reserve my spot?
To secure your place, a deposit is required at the time of booking. Payment plans are available upon request.
21. What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellation policies vary based on booking date and circumstances. Travel insurance is highly recommended to protect your investment.
Our Whats'app Tel Number is
+1 571 239 3889
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