Rome and Venice

Check into your hotel and start your tour at the Roman Forum. In the middle of this thriving metropolis are the ruins of Rome’s ancient government buildings, monuments and temples. Visit the Temple of Saturn, once Rome’s treasury, the Senate House where political events were held, and the Arch of Titus.

The Colosseum is nearby, where Romans came to watch sports, gladiatorial games and other entertainment in the 55,000 capacity amphitheatre. Next door is the triumphal Arch of Constantine, a monument of Imperial Rome.

Once you've had your fill of sightseeing, there are plenty of places close by where you can refuel with authentic pizza and pasta, or try some delicious Fiori di Zucca (fried zucchini flowers).

Set yourself up for some serious sightseeing with a strong coffee and some delicious Italian pastries. Bite into a Sfogliatella, a crunchy pastry filled with cream or chocolate, or an apple fritter, circles of apple deep fried in batter.

Then it's off to the Vatican City, the centre of the Roman Catholic Church. This independent city-state in the centre of Rome is home to the Pope. Walk around St Peter's Square, where people come to hear the Pope say Mass, then visit St Peter's Basilica, which is one of the world's largest churches. Take a tour around the Sistine Chapel, and marvel at the famous ceiling painted by Michelangelo, the frescos and other priceless artwork that adorns the walls.

Time to indulge in some of the most famous Roman landmarks. See the Pantheon, a stunning monument which was originally a pagan temple. It then became the burial place of Italian kings and other prominent Italians. A trip to Rome wouldn’t be complete without throwing a coin into the Trevi Fountain. One of the most popular destinations for tourists, the centrepiece is a statue of Neptune surrounded by horses and titans.

Next, it's a short walk to the Spanish Steps. At the bottom, you can admire the Fontana della Baraccia fountain, before walking up the 135 steps to Trinità de Monti Church. Also close by is Via Condotti, a street famous for its expensive boutiques and ideal for a quick shopping trip.

Day 4 of your Rome and Venice Multicentre holiday takes you to Italy’s floating city of Venice. A train from the Roma Termini station takes around 3 hours and 40 minutes. Once you get there, head to your hotel by Vaporetto (water taxi) and get your first taste of travelling on Venice’s many canals.

Once you’ve dropped off your bags, acquaint yourself with the city by taking a gondola ride along the Grand Canal. Marvel at the city’s Renaissance, Gothic and Romanesque architecture and numerous bridges, including the most famous, the Rialto Bridge.

Food wise, you'll find delicious local seafood on the menu. Try Spaghetti al Nero di Seppia (squid with black pasta), or for a quick snack grab a Tramezzino (filled white bread triangles).

Venice is built on 118 islands and today you’ll get the chance to explore them. A short distance from the Grand Canal is San Giorgio Maggiore. Visit the monastery and church, then make your way to the top of the Campanile for photos of the incredible views across Venice. Next, take in a glass blowing demonstration in the island town of Murano, before seeing the sights of the Palazzo Da Mula. Finally, it's off to Torcello. This sparsely populated island is famous for the mosaics found in the Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta.

There is a quaint restaurant on the island where you can indulge your sweet tooth in the patisserie, try Carpaccio, or one of the fish dishes on the menu.

During your last days in Venice, we recommend immersing yourself in the history of one of the city’s most popular attractions – The Doge's Palace. Here, the ancient Venetian Republic exerted control over the city, and the legendary Casanova was once jailed. Follow in the footsteps of the long-gone as you cross the Bridge of Sighs and venture into the New Jail. After your visit, head to of St. Mark's Basilica, also known as the Golden Basilica, and admire the beautiful mosaics and marble inlay floors. For an extra-special last evening, dine riverside by the Grand Canal.

Wave goodbye to Venice as a water taxi takes you back to Marco Polo Airport for your flight back to the UK.