Alexander Meddings
Verified Writer4.912527 reviews
Verified Writer
Rome, Italy
4.96(3203)
15 Guests Max
3 hrs
Flexible TravelPlanning a journey from the Eternal City to the birthplace of the Renaissance? You're in for a treat that's more satisfying than finding gelato that actually tastes like the fruit it claims to be.
Florence offers an incredible escape from Rome's bustling energy, and whether you're dreaming of Michelangelo's David or plotting to Instagram every pasta dish you encounter, this guide will help you make the most of your Tuscan adventure.
Absolutely. Florence isn't just worth visiting; it's basically mandatory for anyone who wants to understand why Italy makes the rest of the world jealous.
While Rome showcases the grandeur of ancient empires, Florence whispers sweet nothings about artistic genius and Renaissance brilliance.
The two cities complement each other like wine and cheese, or like tourists and questionable souvenir choices. Rome engulfs you with its scale and history; Florence charms you with its intimacy and artistic perfection.
If Rome is the epic novel of Italian cities, Florence is the perfectly crafted sonnet.
Michelangelo's David. Seeing this world-renowned masterpiece in person is a big factor in deciding whether to visit the Uffizi or Accademia.
Perfect for travellers with packed itineraries who want to maximise their Italian city count. You'll get a solid taste of Florence's highlights, though you might feel like you're speed-dating with Renaissance masterpieces.
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This gives Florence the respect it deserves. You'll have time to actually appreciate Brunelleschi's dome without checking your watch every five minutes.
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Bottom line: If your schedule allows, spend at least one night. Florence after dark is when the city reveals just how romantic its soul really is.
The classic choice that gets you there in style and comfort.
Trenitalia's sleek competitor with modern amenities and competitive pricing.
For travellers who prioritise savings over speed and don't mind turning transportation into part of the adventure.
Recommendation: Unless you're on a shoestring budget, opt for the train. The time savings alone make it worthwhile, and you'll arrive ready to explore rather than needing a nap.
Start early at the Uffizi Gallery (book ahead or prepare for lines that rival Roman traffic jams). Marvel at Botticelli's Birth of Venus and pretend you understand why everyone gets emotional about Renaissance perspective techniques.
Next, climb the Duomo's dome, Brunelleschi's architectural masterpiece that makes modern engineers scratch their heads in wonder. The 463 steps are worth it for views that'll make your Instagram followers insufferably jealous.
Here's where Florence gets interesting beyond the guidebook highlights.
Join a Florence Food Tour that takes you beyond tourist-trap restaurants to family-owned establishments where locals actually eat. You'll discover why Florentine cuisine deserves its own love songs and learn the difference between genuine Chianti and tourist-targeted grape juice.
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For deeper cultural immersion, book a Private Walking Tour of Florence with local experts who share stories you won't find in any guidebook. These guides know which hidden courtyards offer the best photo opportunities and can explain why certain streets smell like leather.
If you're staying overnight, the real Florence removes its mask after sunset. The Florence Tipsy Tour introduces you to the city's aperitivo culture; it’s happy hour… but better. You'll visit authentic wine bars where locals gather to debate everything from football to politics over expertly paired small plates.
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Timing matters: Visit Tuesday-Thursday for smaller crowds and better restaurant availability. Mondays are problematic since many museums close.
Dress code: Many churches enforce strict dress codes. Pack for covered shoulders and knees, or risk being turned away.
Cash is king: Smaller establishments often prefer cash, and some food tour stops might not accept cards.
Learn basic Italian phrases: Even attempting "Buongiorno" and "Grazie" opens doors and hearts.
Florence from Rome is a journey between two completely different Italian souls. Rome impresses with imperial grandeur; Florence seduces with artistic intimacy. Whether you choose a quick day visit or a proper overnight stay, you're guaranteed experiences that'll make your friends back home question their own travel choices.
The real question isn't whether Florence is worth visiting from Rome; it's whether you can resist booking your return trip before you've even left. Just remember to save room in your luggage for all the leather goods and wine you'll inevitably purchase. Consider it research for understanding Renaissance merchant culture.
Ready to experience Florence's magic? Book those train tickets, pack comfortable walking shoes, and prepare for a city that turns every corner into a potential art history lesson. Your Instagram feed will thank you later.
View of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo
Yes! A day trip from Rome to Florence is one of the easiest and most rewarding side trips in Italy. With high-speed trains taking just 1.5 hours each way, you can see the city’s top highlights like the Duomo, Uffizi Gallery, and Ponte Vecchio in a single day.
If you only have a day, you can still enjoy Florence’s main attractions. However, spending at least one night lets you experience the city in the quieter evening hours and enjoy activities like the Florence Tipsy Tour.
The cheapest option is usually Flixbus, with fares starting around €10. However, this takes longer than the high-speed train and arrives outside the city centre.
Yes, if you plan carefully. Focus on top sights like the Duomo, Uffizi, and Ponte Vecchio, and consider joining a Florence Food Tour or Private Walking Tour to maximise your time.
Florence is world-famous for its Renaissance art, architecture, and culture. Highlights include Michelangelo’s David, Brunelleschi’s Dome, and masterpieces by Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci. It’s also a culinary hotspot for Tuscan wine, fresh pasta, and artisanal gelato.
Yes. Booking early often gets you cheaper fares and ensures you get your preferred departure time. Trains can sell out, especially during peak season.
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Florence, ItalyNowhere does food like Florence. Voted the best city in the world for local food, the Tuscan capital specialises in hearty meat dishes and full-bodied wines that charm the palates of all who visit. Our Florence Food Tour takes you on a culinary journey through the artisan district of Oltrarno to sample the best of Tuscan cuisine. With a curated menu, planned itinerary, and reserved spots at top local eateries, we take care of the details, so you can relax and savour Florentine cuisine, one delicious bite at a time.
Our tour focuses on the city’s “cucina povera” or “poor cuisine”. But don’t let the name put you off, there’s nothing poor about it. “Cucina povera” refers to the simplicity of the ingredients, all locally sourced and seasonal, to create delicious and filling dishes. After whetting your appetite with crispy schiacciata bread, cold meat and cheese platters, and light, fruity Chianti wine, you’ll be indulging in Florence’s local food culture in a local trattoria.
Your foodie guide will share all their expertise about the history and evolution of this traditional cuisine and introduce you to the most famous dishes in Florence, before finishing with a sweet treat at one of the city’s beloved gelaterie!
Perfect for foodies, travellers, and anyone looking for a unique experience, our Florence Food Tour is packed full of personal stories and insider recommendations. Book now. Spaces fill up fast!
4.95(351)Rome, ItalyFeed your curiosity while pleasing your palate on this indulgent Rome Food Tour! There's a reason this tour is multi-award-winning, and it's because we give you an all-access pass to savouring the Eternal City, stress-free. With everything pre-arranged, you’ll bypass the crowds; no queues, no guesswork—just authentic Roman cuisine. This fun (and filling) food tour gives you and a group of fellow foodies a taste of the city's culinary treasures, from local delicatessens and pizzerias to traditional trattorias and restaurants, you'll try all the authentic spots that the locals keep to themselves. Want a more intimate local experience with no strangers? We now offer an exclusive semi-private Rome food tour for groups of 6 or fewer.
Our Rome food tour takes place in Trastevere, Rome's most traditional medieval neighbourhood. While the area is renowned for its buzzing nightlife and world-class cuisine, just like the rest of Rome, this neighbourhood also has its fair share of tourist traps. Our team of expert foodies invite you, and your tastebuds, to try some of the finest flavours in the city, because holidays are too short to eat bad food, right?
During the experience, we will try at least 10 different tastings (vegetarian options available!) perfectly paired with a selection of local wines or non-alcoholic beverages for sober travellers. Try crispy Roman-style pizza by the slice, savoury suppli, and the best gelato in the city. Experience is more than just simply trying local cuisine, it's a glimpse inside the Roman kitchen—discovering the delicacies, the diet and the cultural dos and don’ts.
Not only will you experience the mouthwatering flavours of Rome, but you’ll also discover the process, meet the makers, and truly understand why Italian cuisine is considered the best in the world. So book your spot on our Rome Food Tour today and get ready for a true taste of the capital!
Please note: the places that we visit and the food that we try depend on the season.
This is a sustainable tour, meaning part of its profits go towards reforestation and other sustainable projects. We also ask all of our guests to bring a reusable water bottle to refill at one of the water fountains along our route to stay hydrated and help us reduce waste.
**Unfortunately, we can’t accommodate a gluten-free or vegan diet, but we hope to be able to in the future. While we can cater to vegetarians, we ask that you let us know about dietary requirements in advance so we can best suit your needs.**
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Florence, ItalyEnjoy Traditional Drinks and Scandalous Stories in the Heart of the Renaissance City.
This isn’t your typical tour. The Tipsy Tour in Florence is the perfect blend of fascinating history, tasty drinks, and making memories with newfound friends. Explore the vibrant nightlife of the Renaissance City and sample signature Italian cocktails, wine, and shots. Along the way you’ll hear about Florence’s less savoury past with some saucy stories and dark history, all the while getting tipsy of course! This tour is all about bringing people together so if alcohol isn’t your thing, not to worry! We’ve got some alcohol-free options for travellers who want the social experience without the hangover.
Your fun-loving guide will wow you with scandals from Florence’s history. Sip away as you learn the life stories of some of Florence’s most notorious figures. The Medici are a great starting point – specifically, Catherine de Medici, believed by many to have had a penchant for poison and a dabble in the dark arts.
As we travel from bar to bar, tracing the steps of prisoners and sex workers alike, your guide will immerse you in the bloody tale of the Pazzi Conspiracy, where Lorenzo de Medici and his entourage were attacked in Florence’s cathedral during High Mass on Easter Sunday. Then you’ll find out what happened to the Pazzi family, too.
Spoiler alert – it was way worse.
During the experience, we’ll visit at least two vibrant bars and enjoy drink stops outside famous sights. Plus, we’ll order shots from a wine window on the street, like a true Florentine. You might wonder why wine from a window never became a worldwide phenomenon, and trust us – we don’t know either.
When the Tipsy Tour is over, the night out officially begins. We’ll enjoy the city long into the night, making unforgettable memories with our Tipsy besties.
Spaces fill up fast, so book your Florence Tipsy Tour today!
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Rome, ItalyOne of the best ways to meet people in a new city is to grab a drink together, and few city serve up more iconic drinks than Rome. Whether you’re travelling solo or with a group, for a long vacation or a short city break – our Rome Tipsy Tour is for you!
This unique nightlife experience combines all our favourite elements of travel: discovering new places, being immersed in different cultures, meeting fun people, and trying out a range of delicious drinks! It’s not a run-of-the-mill bar crawl. It’s a sociable tour that gives you a real taste of with Rome’s sights, stories, and signature drinks in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere with fun, local hosts. We also welcome sober travellers who want to join for a social experience but who want to forgo a hangover, so we’ll have non-alcoholic options available as well!
You’ll meet your guide and group at Piazza Madonna dei Monti, where we’ll break the ice with a warm Italian welcome – aka, a refreshing glass of local wine. After saying cheers—salute—we’ll head into Monti, an uber-trendy district filled with quirky bars and cobblestoned streets, and plenty to unpack. In ancient Rome, Monti was known as a suburra – the red-light district of Rome where prostitutes plied their trade and gangsters once roamed. As we wander through the cobblestone streets your guide will tell you scandalous stories of sex and bloodshed that you won’t hear on your typical walking tour.
After so much scandal, you’ll surely need a drink. So at our first stop on the Rome Tipsy Tour you’ll get an extra stiff one. The spotlight will be on Carpano Classico a venerable vermouth with a curious story! Unravel the history of the man who made it – Antonio Benedetto Carpano – back in 1786 whilst sharing some sips with your newfound friends.
We’ll keep the night going with some more saucy stories before trying a classic Italian Spritz. Indulge in the bitter flavours of Aperol or Campari Spritz while enjoying dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing—apart from getting tipsy of course!
Our final stop is Rome’s most iconic road, the Via dei Fori Imperiali, leading down to the Colosseum. The views of the ancient city are best enjoyed after dark with an ice-cold Limoncello – trust us. Sip away as your guide tells shocking stories of the power-hungry Roman emperors who once ruled the known world.
At 11 p.m., the Tipsy Tour officially ends, but the night out begins! We will continue drinking with our new friends at some of Rome’s most popular bars!
Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience. We promise to make your night in Rome one you’ll never forget! Skip a boring walking tour, and come get tipsy with us.
Book your spot now!
4.94(2344)
Florence, ItalyEvery cobble in Florence tells a story. Its 14th-century walls contain such a wealth of archaeological and artistic treasures that the city centre itself is a UNESCO site – a global centre of cultural importance. This private walking tour of Florence tells the story of Renaissance city through the monuments it leaves behind.
Accompanied by your expert, licensed guide, you’ll explore Florence’s streets and discover its attractions, being transported through its illustrious history – from its founding as a Roman colony through to its patronage by medieval Europe’s most powerful bankers and merchants (not least the infamous Medici).
Your private walking tour takes you through Florence’s world-famous sites. Gaze up at Brunelleschi’s 15th-century Duomo – the dome of Florence’s Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore – and the Golden Doors of Paradise on its adjacent Baptistery. Learn to decipher the symbols and reliefs that adorn the Tower of Giotto beside the Duomo and learn why the Florentine’s chose them and what they said about their city.
Stroll past Piazza della Repubblica, Italy’s most important square in the mid 1800s when Florence was the country’s capital, and admire the statues that line the niches of the nearby Church of Orsanmichele. Florence’s most picturesque piazza lies just a short stroll away: Piazza della Signoria, in the background of which loom the medieval fortress of Palazzo Vecchio and the Renaissance offices converted into the world’s most famous gallery: the Uffizi.
Head through the vaulted arches of the Uffizi and you arrive at Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s most famous bridge, which dates back in its current form to the days of the Medici. Absorb its rich history, and some of its seldom shared secrets, as your expert guide shares their expertise and answers all your questions.
4.97(16)
Florence, ItalyNowhere does food quite like Florence and with our Private Florence Food Tour you'll go on an exclusive culinary journey with dedicated attention from a local guide who will take you to authentic eateries in the Oltrarno neighbourhood. It's here where you'll sample the best of Tuscan cuisine; savour hearty meat dishes and indulge in full bodied wines, all at your own pace.
We’ve taken care of every detail: from a curated tasting menu to reserved spots at beloved local eateries. All that’s left for you to do is relax, indulge, and experience the flavours of Florence one delicious bite at a time.
This private tour focuses on the city’s famed “cucina povera” or “poor cuisine”, a style that transforms humble, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients into bold, unforgettable dishes. Start with crispy schiacciata bread, artisan cold cuts and cheeses, and refreshing Chianti wine before heading to a cosy local trattoria to dive deeper into Florence’s culinary heritage.
Your personal foodie guide will bring the city’s food history to life, sharing stories, traditions, and insights into Florence’s most iconic dishes, before ending the tour on a sweet note at one of the city’s best-loved gelaterie.
Whether you’re a foodie, a curious traveller, or simply looking for a unique and intimate experience, this private food tour is packed with local flavour and personalised insider recommendations you won’t find in any guidebook.
Book now to reserve your private slice of Florence, availability is limited!
4.93(122)
Rome, ItalyLearn to cook like an Italian in this small group pasta & tiramisù cooking class that gives you mastery over the country’s best-loved classics. Over the course of three-and-a-half-hour fun-filled hours, you’ll enjoy the expert guidance of our fluent professional chef and get hands on recreating real Roman recipes, culminating in a well-deserved dinner in which you feast on what you’ve made.
Situated in our centrally situated air-conditioned cooking school, your interactive class will give you the true sense of an Italian nonna’s loving kitchen. Led by an enthusiastic and knowledgeable English-speaking chef, our cooking masterclass is perfect for kids and adults, beginners and experts.
Savoiardi (ladyfingers) are gently dipped in rich coffee before being layered with dollops of delicately mixed eggs and panna (cream). Finished off with a sprinkle of cocoa, these delicious desserts are set aside to rest in time for an after-dinner energy boost. In fact, the espresso within a tiramisù is what gives it a name that translates literally as “pick me up”!
Rolling up our sleeves, here is where we channel our inner nonna. Mixing, kneading, rolling, and shaping our fresh pasta from scratch will work up a sweat but result in elegant end products. We will then combine these carefully crafted creations with the flavors of the season and locality; be it twangy cacio e pepe or creamy carbonara.
How else to conclude your cooking class than by fully indulging in your culinary creations! Celebrate your accomplishment with family-friendly company, a gorgeous setting, and a selection of red or white wines and soft drinks.
Whether returning a culinary maestro or a self-proclaimed novice, you’ll be sure to take the memories home with you and ruling your dinner parties back home!
4.96(1852)
Rome, ItalyDid someone say Spritz? Discover the flavours of Rome on our Spritz and Spaghetti Class. Our centrally located kitchen is where you’ll learn everything you need to mix traditional Italian cocktails, and perfect the art of making fresh pasta. This is the only cooking class of its kind in Rome – a perfect blend of food, friends, and tipsy fun. So come join us and see what all the fuss is about!
Our team will welcome you and your small, intimate group with a mixology demo making Italy’s best-loved drink: Aperol Spritz. You’ll then get started on your hands-on pasta-making lesson led by a fun-loving, fluent professional chef, during which we’ll also be making two other drink.
Your professional chef will guide you every step of the way – from kneading the dough to cutting the pasta. You’ll also be making a creamy carbonara sauce to coat your fresh pasta (vegetarians can try out another Roman classic of cacio e pepe). Travelling is all about meeting new people. At the end of this cooking class, you’ll dine on what you’ve made in the fun, tipsy company of your new foodie friends.
Book now and start making memories.
4.95(3841)
Rome, ItalyExplore the wonders of the Eternal City on our Wonders of Rome Walking Tour! As you get your bearings around Rome’s cobbled historic centre, your expert storyteller will bring Rome’s most must-see sites to life, including the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Piazza Navona. Take photos, make memories, and most importantly, get the most out of your time in the Italian capital!
Your guide will share the city’s secrets and narrate its story in a way that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time – from explaining how the stunningly intricate churches and palaces were erected, to how the grand fountains were used to channel water throughout the city.
After meeting your guide at Piazza d'Aracoeli, we'll head to the Piazza Venezia, the crossroads between the ancient city and the modern capital and one of the most scenic squares in Italy! We'll then admire Trajan’s Column, a second-century AD monument which portrays the bloody victory of the emperor Trajan in his Dacian wars in Eastern Europe.
After taking a moment to marvel at the imposing Altar of the Fatherland, we’ll make our way to the iconic Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the fountain, spend a moment soaking in its sounds and scenery (metaphorically, not literally!), and uncover the fascinating stories behind the fountain’s statues and symbols.
We’ll then make our way to the Pantheon where the spectacle of the 2000-year-old dome will blow you away. Marvel at one of the best-preserved buildings of the ancient world, hear the story behind the man who built it, and discover the shocking architectural secret behind how the dome is (or isn’t) supported!
The square is situated near some of Rome’s best and most vibrant bars and restaurants and your guide will be happy to recommend where to go.
Our Rome Walking Tour is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. You can expect this memorable experience to last about two hours, which leaves you with more than enough time to explore the city beyond. Make sure you don’t miss out.
Secure your spot today!
4.97(2485)
Rome, ItalyReady to time travel? Join our VIP small group Colosseum tour and step straight into Ancient Rome, no time machines (or long lines) required. With skip-the-line access and a savvy local guide, you’ll breeze past the queues and straight into the jaw-dropping world of emperors, gladiators, and ancient stories that will stick with you forever. Travelling with 6 or fewer people? We recommend upgrading to our semi-private tour of Ancient Rome for a more personalised experience, exploring at a more relaxed pace, and a more intimate experience with the people you care about most.
We’ll start our 3-hour adventure at the Colosseum, Rome’s most famous arena. Your guide will reveal the secrets behind this impressive monument and provide answers to your burning questions:
The answers might surprise you, but not more than the exclusive above-the-arena views that offer a new perspective of the Eternal City.
Next, we’ll ascend Palatine Hill, the legendary birthplace of Rome and home to ancient palaces, royal intrigue, and some of the city's best panoramic views. This is where myths met marble, and emperors ruled in style.
Then it’s down into the Roman Forum, once the buzzing hub of Roman public life. We’ll wander through the ruins of ancient temples, triumphal arches, and the political stages that shaped an empire, all brought to life through the expert storytelling of your licensed guide.
With the comfort of a small group, a well-paced itinerary, and the best value for your money, this isn’t just a tour, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience through the rise (and fall) of Ancient Rome.
Best value. Zero stress. Epic stories. Spots fill fast, so grab yours and make your Roman holiday legendary.
4.96(2727)