Highlights
4-night stay in Venice to experience the magic of "Carnivale"
Iconic Venetian gondola ride
Hands-on Carnival mask decorating workshop
Witness the Feast of the Maries
"Carnivale" dinner cruise sailing through the Venice Lagoon (with the opportunity to dress up**)
Watch the spectacular Parade of People and the Flight of the Angel from the Bell Tower of St Marks
Enjoy a culinary walking tour of Venice
Visit and stay in Padova; newly included in the UNESCO Heritage List
Padova sightseeing, including Giotto’s frescoes in the Scrovegni Chapel
Day tour to visit Vicenza’s including a walking tour and lunch
2-night stay in Bologna; fast becoming one of Italy's culinary hotspots
Sightseeing and walking tour of Bologna
Cooking lesson in a local Bologna Restaurant
Free day in Bologna to explore at leisure
3-night stay in Florence, the heart of Tuscany
Full day private tour to visit Siena and San Gimignano, including lunch and wine tasting
Guided Florence Renaissance walking tour including Ponte Vecchio, the Baptistry & Portico of the Galleria degli Uffizi
Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina dinner in Florence
Sightseeing tour of Montepulciano, one of the most characteristic and intact medieval cities in Italy
Sightseeing tour of Pienza, the perfect example of an Italian Renaissance city
Sightseeing tour of Montalcino, the beautiful 'art' city of Italy
Free day in Florence to explore at leisure
Tour the medieval town of Orvieto in Umbria
4-night stay in Rome
Rome sightseeing including the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel
Walking tour of Rome including the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona
Culinary walking tour of Rome through Campo de Fiori, Trastevere and the Jewish Quarter
Free day in Rome to explore at leisure
Friends for company!
**Dressing up for Venice Carnivale prices start at EUR180 - what an experience!
Inclusions
Fully escorted by a Sisterhood Tour Hostess who is on hand to assist with making your holiday a memorable one
Return airfares including taxes ex Melbourne (other departure cities and classes upon request)
Services of an experienced Tour Manager throughout
All transportation, including trains and private coaches
Luggage transfers for all train travel (we don't see them until we check in)
Sightseeing as per our itinerary, including entrance fees
All meals as specified in our itinerary
European 4-star well-located hotels with private facilities
Porterage of 1 bag at each hotel
Assistance with booking any optional activities
VAT and City Taxes (subject to change)
Willing to share option (subject to availability)
Meet and greet before departure via Zoom
Ready-made friends for company!
Notice
Moderate Fitness Rating - A moderate level of fitness will be required for these tours due to the length and/or overall physicality of our tour itinerary. You can expect to walk more than 10,000 steps daily on more challenging terrain and longer periods. You must be capable of boarding and disembarking coaches, trains and boats unaided and at times handle your luggage. For more information on our physical ratings please click here
TIPPING
Local tipping is customary and appreciated. Sisterhood Womens Travel tipping system on all Group Tours involves passengers contributing to a kitty, which is paid to the tour hostess at the beginning of the tour, who then distributes it daily to service providers on your behalf. This avoids the need for you to consider individual tipping situations daily throughout your trip. The estimated amount for your tour is EUR135 and this will be confirmed in your final documentation.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Wednesday 4 February 2026
Melbourne - Venice
Welcome to your next Sisterhood adventure!
Join your Sisterhood Tour Hostess and fellow travellers at the designated meeting point at Melbourne Airport for our flight to Venice, Italy.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the inflight entertainment and hospitality of our airline as we head towards the famous Carnivale of Venice.
Day 2 - Thursday 5 February 2026
Venice (D)
Upon arrival in Venice, we’ll transfer by private taxi to our hotel, with time to check in and unwind. Over the next four nights, we’ll be swept up in the enchantment of Carnivale, as Venice transforms into a living fairytale of elegance, mystery, and wonder. From the excitement of donning ornate masks to strolling through cobbled laneways aglow with lanterns and magic, each moment feels like stepping into a dream.
Tonight, we’ll gather for a delicious welcome dinner at a local restaurant—a perfect opportunity to connect with your fellow travellers before an early night to begin dreaming of all the adventures ahead.
Overnight - Hotel Georgione (or similar)
Day 3 - Friday 6 February 2026
Vence Sightseeing (B)
After breakfast, we’ll set off on a half-day guided walking tour of Venice, discovering the enchanting beauty of "La Serenissima". Blending iconic landmarks with hidden corners, our expert guide will bring the history, culture and charm of the Floating City to life in just a few fascinating hours. After some free time to enjoy lunch at our leisure, we’ll experience one of Venice’s most iconic traditions—a serene gondola ride through the city’s romantic canals. Sit back, relax, and take in the sights as Venice reveals its true magic from the water.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Hotel Georgione (or similar)
Day 4 - Saturday 7 February 2026
Venice and the Feast of the Maries (B,D)
This morning after breakfast, we embrace the chance to delve into one of Venice’s most treasured traditions with a Carnival mask decorating workshop led by a skilled local artisan. Using vivid colours, sparkling glitter, and traditional techniques, you’ll create your own unique masterpiece to take home—a lasting memento of your time in Venice.
Free time for lunch.
In the afternoon, enjoy the Feast of the Maries, one of Carnevale’s most iconic events. Watch as twelve of Venice’s most beautiful young women make their way by gondola from the traghetto at Santa Sofia to St. Mark’s Square. While the gondola procession along the Grand Canal is brief, the real spectacle awaits in the square, where the Maries are formally presented to the public between 3:45 and 4:00 PM—accompanied by music, circus-theatre, acrobats, and clowns in true Venetian style.
In the evening, delight in a Carnival Party Cruise aboard an iconic Venetian galleon. Enjoy a festive buffet dinner, lively entertainment, and an unforgettable sail through the glowing lagoon, passing Murano, Burano, Torcello, and the dazzling Venice skyline. A magical evening of masks, music, and memories awaits!
Overnight - Hotel Georgione (or similar)
** Mask & Costume hire available - prices start from EUR180 per person.
Day 5 - Sunday 8 February 2026
Venice Carnivale Celebrations (B,LD)
After breakfast, we immerse ourselves in the vibrant, festive atmosphere of Carnival in Venice with a full day of celebration and culture. First, we head to St. Mark’s Square to witness the spectacular Parade of People in Costume—a colourful, joyful display of creativity and tradition.
Then we experience one of Carnivale’s most breathtaking moments: The Flight of the Angel, as a costumed performer gracefully descends from the Bell Tower of St. Mark’s, accompanied by music, circus-theatre, acrobats, and street performers. A true highlight of the festival!
In the evening, we dive into the gastronomic history of Venice with a delicious culinary walking tour. Savour cicchetti—Venice’s famous small bites—paired with the original Spritz, born in the Veneto region. This immersive experience offers a rich variety of Venetian specialities, leaving you with an unforgettable taste of the city’s flavours. Enjoy the magic of the evening in a more local, authentic setting—away from the crowds, surrounded by aromas, ambience, and the spirit of Venetian tradition.
Overnight - Hotel Georgione (or similar)
Day 6 - Monday 9 February 2026
Venice - Padova (B)
After breakfast, we board a high-speed train to Padova, a city recently added to the UNESCO World Heritage list for its remarkable collection of 14th-century frescoes. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic centre, where centuries of architecture blend harmoniously. Discover the impressive Town Hall, an architectural tapestry featuring a medieval tower, Byzantine capitals, a Renaissance courtyard with elegant staircases, 19th-century additions, and a grand façade completed in the 1930s.
Our tour also includes admission to the breathtaking Scrovegni Chapel, home to one of the most influential masterpieces in Western art. Painted by Giotto between 1303 and 1305, these frescoes revolutionised the world of painting with their emotion, realism and storytelling.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Hotel Majestic (or similar)
Please note: Our luggage will be handled independently and delivered to our hotel - no need to stress about boarding the train!
Day 7 - Tuesday 10 February 2026
Padova - Vicenza Return (B, L)
After breakfast, we’ll board the high-speed train to Vicenza, a city renowned for its stunning Palladian architecture. Our guided walking tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore Vicenza’s architectural treasures, including Basilica Palladiana, the elegant Teatro Olimpico, and the lively Piazza dei Signori, while also uncovering hidden gems and fascinating stories from the city’s rich past.
We’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant to try the regional specialty—baccalà, a traditional salted cod dish. After lunch, enjoy some free time to wander and soak up the charm of Vicenza before returning by train to Padova for our overnight stay.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Hotel Majestic (or similar)
Day 8 - Wednesday 11 February 2026
Padova - Bologna (B,D)
After breakfast, we'll board the high-speed train to Bologna—a vibrant city known for its elegant porticoes, medieval towers, and world-class cuisine. Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided walking tour of the historic centre, beginning in Piazza Maggiore, the heart of the city. Surrounded by grand buildings such as the Palazzo Comunale, Palazzo del Podestà, and Palazzo Re Enzo, the square offers a captivating introduction to Bologna’s rich history.
Continue to the iconic Two Towers, Asinelli and Garisenda, symbols of the city’s medieval past, followed by a visit to the impressive Basilica of San Petronio, a magnificent Gothic church dedicated to Bologna’s patron saint.
This evening, we'll immerse ourselves in Bologna’s culinary tradition with a hands-on cooking lesson at a local restaurant, followed by a delicious dinner featuring the fruits of our labour.
Overnight - Hotel Internazionale (or similar)
Please note: Our luggage will be handled independently and delivered to our hotel - no need to stress about boarding the train!
Day 9 - Thursday 12 February 2026
Bologna - Free Day to Explore (B)
Today is a free day to explore at leisure.
For those wanting to dive deeper into the city’s famed culinary scene, we recommend optional tours that highlight its delicious local specialties such as mortadella, tortellini, and tagliatelle al ragù.
Wander through the Quadrilatero Market, a lively maze of narrow streets brimming with traditional food shops, vibrant stalls, and cosy eateries. Or opt for Grand Tour Italia, an immersive experience that showcases the biodiversity of Italy’s 20 regions, celebrating their unique food, wine, history, culture, and landscapes. Whatever you choose, Bologna is sure to delight. Your tour hostess can assist with any optional touring.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Hotel Internazionale (or similar)
Day 10 - Friday 13 February 2026
Bologna - Florence (B, D)
After breakfast, we'll board the high-speed train to Florence, known as the Cradle of the Renaissance. Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided walking tour through the city’s historic heart. Stroll across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, lined with glittering jewellers, and pass the portico of the Uffizi Gallery on your way to the striking Piazza della Signoria. Admire the magnificent Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, with its famous dome—Brunelleschi’s architectural masterpiece. Opposite the cathedral, marvel at the Baptistery’s golden bronze doors, known as the “Gates of Paradise,” depicting biblical scenes in intricate detail.
We continue to the bustling Mercato Centrale for a sensory journey through Tuscan flavours, culminating in an exclusive traditional dinner at a local restaurant featuring the legendary Bistecca alla Fiorentina—Florentine-style T-bone steak.
Overnight - Hotel Albani (or similar)
Please note: Our luggage will be handled independently and delivered to our hotel - no need to stress about boarding the train!
Day 11 - Saturday 14 February 2026
Florence - Siena - Chianti Region - San Gimignano - Florence (B,L)
After breakfast, our adventure through Tuscany begins! Today’s full-day guided excursion takes us to Siena, the Chianti region and San Gimignano, with a delicious lunch and wine tasting along the way.
We start with the beautiful medieval city of Siena, famous for its Palio—a thrilling historic horse race held annually in the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. Admire architectural gems such as the stunning Siena Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Romanesque-Gothic art, and the towering Torre del Mangia, which offers panoramic views over the city. After our guided tour, we'll have some free time to explore at our own pace, browse the charming botteghe (artisan shops), and indulge in a tasting of Siena’s traditional sweets, panforte and panpepato, at a local pastry shop.
Next, we journey into the scenic Chianti countryside, where rolling hills, olive groves, vineyards, and cypress-lined roads create a picture-perfect landscape. We'll stop at a family-owned Tuscan wine estate to enjoy a traditional lunch paired with a relaxed and informative wine tasting.
In the afternoon, we visit the enchanting town of San Gimignano, once home to 72 medieval towers, 14 of which still stand. Stroll along its main street, lined with specialty shops, with free time before returning to Florence.
Overnight - Hotel Albani (or similar)
Day 12 - Sunday 15 February 2026
Free Day in Florence (B)
A free day in Florence offers endless delights for us to explore at our own pace. Stroll through cobbled laneways filled with artisan boutiques, leather shops, and elegant fashion stores—perfect for picking up a stylish souvenir or two. Enjoy a relaxed lunch in a sunlit piazza, people-watch over gelato, or admire the beauty of Renaissance art in optional visits to the Uffizi or Accademia galleries. Climb to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views over the city, or simply wander, laugh, and connect while soaking up the beauty, charm, and romance that Florence so effortlessly offers.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Hotel Albani (or similar)
Day 13 - Monday 16 February 2026
Florence - Arezzo (B)
After breakfast in Florence, we depart by regional train to the charming city of Arezzo. Upon arrival, we'll begin a guided walking tour that will take us on a captivating journey through the city’s rich medieval and Renaissance heritage. Stroll through the elegant Piazza Grande and Piazza del Duomo, home to the impressive Cathedral, which houses artistic masterpieces by Donatello and Piero della Francesca. Visit the stunning Basilica of San Francesco and meander along atmospheric medieval streets that tell the story of centuries past. Along the way, our guide will share fascinating insights into Arezzo’s history, culture, and notable figures, including poet Petrarch.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Hotel Continentale (or similar)
Please note: Our luggage will be handled independently and delivered to our hotel - no need to stress about boarding the train!
Day 14 - Tuesday 17 February 2026
Arezzo - Montepulciano - Pienza - Montalcino - Arezzo (B,L)
After breakfast in Arezzo, we'll depart early by private coach for a full-day tour to discover a new and picturesque corner of Tuscany. Our morning begins in Montepulciano, one of Italy’s most charming and well-preserved medieval hill towns. Perched at 605 metres above sea level, it offers sweeping views of the rolling countryside. We have time to explore Montepulciano’s beautiful historic centre.
Next, we travel to Pienza, a jewel of Renaissance town planning and famed for its delicious Pecorino cheese. Savour a cheese tasting and light lunch at a traditional local farm.
In the afternoon, we continue to Montalcino, home to the world-famous Brunello wine. While best known for its prestigious reds, Montalcino is also an artistic treasure in its own right, offering panoramic views over 3,000 hectares of vineyards—1,500 of which are dedicated to Brunello production.
Returning to Arezzo with dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Hotel Continentale (or similar)
Day 15 - Wednesday 18 February 2026
Arezzo - Orvieto - Rome (B)
After breakfast in Arezzo, we'll depart by private coach for Rome, with a scenic stop en route in the remarkable hilltop city of Orvieto, located in the southwestern part of the Umbria region. With roots tracing back to the Etruscans, Orvieto is rich in history and known for its medieval architecture, its role as a papal city, and its stunning location atop a volcanic plateau. Beneath the surface lies an extensive network of ancient caves and tunnels, adding to the town’s mystique and charm. Enjoy time to explore Orvieto’s historic centre before continuing on to Rome.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - The Republic (or similar)
Day 16 - Thursday 19 February 2026
Rome Sightseeing (B)
Today is all about getting our bearings. After breakfast, we enjoy a full day discovering the wonders of Rome, beginning with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of art and treasures, culminating in a visit to the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, where you’ll marvel at Michelangelo’s world-renowned frescoes.
Following our visit, we'll have free time for lunch before continuing with a walking tour of Baroque Rome, taking in the city’s most iconic landmarks including the elegant Piazza Navona, the magical Trevi Fountain, and the Pantheon.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - The Republic (or similar)
Day 17 - Friday 20 February 2026
Rome Culinary Walking Tour (B)
This morning, join our local guide for a culinary walking tour through three of Rome’s most flavourful and historic districts: Campo de’ Fiori, Trastevere, and the Jewish Quarter. Discover the rich culinary heritage of the Eternal City as you taste traditional Roman favourites like supplì - crispy fried rice balls with melted mozzarella and perhaps sample baccalà fritto (fried codfish) in the Jewish Ghetto. In Campo de’ Fiori, soak up the aromas of exotic spices and browse the city’s oldest market, bustling with stalls of colourful produce, meats, and fresh fish.
Our journey begins in the Jewish Ghetto, home to Europe’s oldest Jewish community. Walk along Via Portico d’Ottavia, lined with charming Kosher bakeries and shops, as your guide shares the fascinating history, culture, and culinary traditions rooted in this vibrant neighbourhood.
Continue to Campo de’ Fiori, one of Rome’s most picturesque and lively squares, where locals have gathered since 1869 to shop, chat, and savour the city’s freshest ingredients. This is the perfect place to taste authentic Roman specialities and feel part of daily Roman life.
We have an afternoon at leisure to explore, with dinner at leisure tonight - Your tour hostess will suggest a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - The Republic (or similar)
Day 18 - Saturday 21 February 2026
Free Day in Rome (B)
Today is ours to explore the city’s rich culture at a relaxed pace. We can wander the cobbled lanes of Trastevere, browse artisan boutiques and elegant fashion stores, or sip cappuccinos in a sunlit piazza. Revisit iconic sites like the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, and Pantheon or book a tour of the Colosseum (pre booking is advised). How about a fun Vespa tour throughout Rome, a visit to the ghoulish Church of the Capuchin Monks or just get lost and see where the day takes you. Of course, our experienced Sisterhood hostess is there to point you in the right direction and help make sure your free day in Rome is a memorable one.
Tonight, we enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, celebrating great times with good friends.
Overnight - The Republic (or similar)
Day 19 - Sunday 22 February 2026
Arriverderci Roma! (B)
A morning free before a midday transfer to the airport to begin our journey home. Relax and enjoy the inflight services of our airlines as we head home.
Day 20 - Monday 23 February 2026
Arrive Melbourne (Meals Inflight)
Welcome home! Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel and we look forward to welcoming you to your next adventure.