A Birthday Trip to Italy!
Everyone is more or less familiar with Italian culture, from watching movies, learning about the Roman Empire, or simply eating pizza. But not until you arrive in the country do you realize that everything you thought you knew is really just the tip of an enormous iceberg. Every region—every town even—has a unique personality, so no matter how many times you visit Italy, you’re always left with the craving for more.
Jun 3 – 6, 2024: Tuscany (3 nights)
Jun 6 – 9, 2024: Sorrento (3 nights)
Jun 9 – 11, 2024: Rome (2 nights)
US passport holders are allowed to fly into Italy for Business or Tourism without visa requirements.
Official entry requirements can be sourced here
These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.
We have put together this Destination Guide for you, full of unique insights and ways to get excited before you travel, such as:
- Spotify playlists
- Dishes to try
- Helpful phrases
- Packing guide
- Tipping guides
Plus more!
Scenset's Guide to Italy
The Italian dolce vita is difficult to describe. It is something that truly needs to be experienced first-hand. It is found in the ambient sounds of Rome's cobblestone streets, in the rows of vines of Tuscany's tranquil vineyards, reflecting in the immaculate and azure Mediterranean waters off the Amalfi Coast, and in the daily interactions with Italy's jovial citizens. The unbridled romanticism of a honeymoon in Italy will leave you with memories lasting a lifetime.
Your international flight arrives in Rome today!
Flight Numbers:
- New York to Dublin: Flight number will be provided
- Dublin to Rome: Flight number will be provided
Booked Independently
Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the arrivals hall of the airport and transfer you to your hotel in a luxury vehicle.
Pick up time: Upon exit from the terminal
Meeting location: Inside the Arrivals Hall
Booked By Scenset
Arrive at your hotel and unwind! The afternoon is yours to enjoy whether you choose to venture into Florence or enjoy the luxurious grounds of your hotel.
Tonight enjoy dinner at the trattoria of Cibrèo. We have reserved a table for two in the evening.
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
Florence has some wonderful coffee shops, a few of our favorites are:
- Ditta Artigianale, known for bringing specialty coffee to Florence, it has multiple locations in the city. It's not just about espresso here; they offer a variety of brewing methods and a selection of beans from around the world. Their scenset location is in the historic center, making it a great stop during a day of sightseeing.
- La Ménagère is part coffee bar, part restaurant, and part concept store, La Ménagère is a beautiful space to enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning or anytime. The interior is uniquely designed, and the atmosphere is perfect for either working on your laptop or relaxing with friends.
- Caffè Gilli is one of the oldest coffee houses in Florence, located in Piazza della Repubblica. Caffè Gilli provides not just coffee but a historical experience. Its pastries are as much of an attraction as its espresso, and the ambiance brings you back to the glamour of early 20th-century Italy.
- Caffè Paszkowski: Another historical café located in Piazza della Repubblica, it has a rich history and was once a brewery. It's a great place to enjoy coffee while soaking in the historical atmosphere and occasionally enjoying live music.
- Caffè Rivoire: Situated in Piazza della Signoria, offering a prime view of the Palazzo Vecchio, Rivoire is known for its hot chocolate but also serves excellent coffee. It's a perfect spot to relax after visiting the nearby Uffizi Gallery or just to enjoy the view of one of Florence's most magnificent squares.
- Visit Boboli Garden, great for an afternoon stroll! It also features five museums: the Museum of Russian Icons, the Treasury of the Grand Dukes, the Imperial and Royal Apartments, the Museum of Costume and Fashion, and the Gallery of Modern Art.
- Enjoy a panoramic point in Florence to take some nice pictures, the best point is definitely Piazzale Michelangelo, especially at sunset. If you enjoy being active, you can reach Piazzale Michelangelo by taking a nice walk; otherwise, you can easily reach it with a taxi!
- Bardini Villa features beautiful Renaissance gardens above the city filled with wisteria; it's a great place to watch the sun set over Florence. There is also a working monastery you can visit.
- The Duomo is a constituent of the Monumental Complex of Santa Maria del Fiore, joined by Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery, Santa Reparata, and the Opera del Duomo Museum. Positioned in close proximity to the cathedral, all of these attractions are accessible with a single ticket. You can also climb to the top of Cathedral dome.
- The Baptistery of San Giovanni is one of the oldest buildings in Florence across from the Florence Cathedral. Inside, the golden mosaic ceiling is the standout piece. It's steeped in history!
These are recommendations only - no bookings have been made.
We have reserved for each of you the following treatments:
- 25' minutes body exfoliant and
- 70' minutes body massages, 2 people.
Reservation name: will be provided.
Reserved by scenset - to be paid locally
Why we love it for you: This opulent villa, perched in the hills of Florence, offers an unforgettable escape at the intersection of baroque romanticism and timeless luxury. Its meticulously designed rooms and suites are a fusion of elegance and comfort. Dining in the ornate restaurant is a culinary delight. With a prime location, Il Salviatino is a gateway to Florence's rich history and culture and Tuscany's immaculate countryside.
Scenset is close partners with your hotel and for this reason you get priority on special perks!
- Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
- Early Check-in / Late Check-out, upon availability
- Welcome drink upon arrival
- 30 minutes Spa per person, per stay*
*We have requested applying this credit against your treatments
It’s easy to get wrapped up in the magic of Florence, but there’s so much more to Tuscany outside of the capital city. Hop in the car and the city quickly gives way to medieval villages, terracotta estates, and endless rows of vineyards. The region is renowned for its history and art, but sensual pleasures reign supreme: copious glasses of wine, simple cooking with seasonal ingredients, natural thermal baths. If you’re seeking la dolce vita, you’ll find it in Tuscany.
This morning a private English speaking driver will greet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the idyllic countryside of Tuscany; destination: a local farm where you will enjoy a traditional cooking class and experience rural Tuscan life.
After lunch continue your day by enjoying a guided visit of a winery in Montalcino where you will indulge in a wine-tasting of the finest blends of the estate. To culminate the tour, explore the scenic town of Montalcino!
Inclusions:
- Private English-speaking driver
- Cooking Class with Lunch
- Winery visit in Montalcino and tasting
Pick up time: morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Duration: 8 hours
Booked by Scenset
- Vegetable flan (seasonal)
- Gnocchi (with fresh tomato sauce)
- Peposo (typical stewed meat with pepper)
- Hazelnut Flan
Tonight enjoy dinner at the restaurant of your hotel. We have reserved a table for two in the evening.
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
In many ways, visiting Florence today feels like a trip directly into the Renaissance. The energy that inspired the likes of da Vinci and Michelangelo is still palpable, from the grandiose pink and green facade of the Duomo to an unembellished plate of Florentine steak with potatoes. It’s easy to get engrossed by the art and shopping in the historic center, but walk across the Ponte Vecchio to find Florence’s most authentic osterias and enotecas on the left bank of the river.
Florence’s cultural patrimony is unrivaled the world over. No visit to Italy would be complete without viewing its vast collection. Begin the 4-hour tour with an orientation experience of the city's highlights. Gazing upon the artistry of the Duomo, Baptistery, Piazza della Signoria, and Ponte Vecchio.
The tour wouldn't be complete without exploring one of Italy's most important museums; the enchanting Uffizi Gallery. Led by your specialized guide you will have the chance to truly understand what's behind each painting, and 'follow' the evolution of Italian art through the centuries, from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Learn all about the great artists that turned Florence into the capital of the Renaissance, and see them actually come to life with the guidance of your dedicated guide Discover Giotto's revolutionary art, admire the beauty of Botticelli's Primavera, and marvel at Leonardo's mix of rational genius and artistic creativity!
Inclusions:
- Private English-speaking lisenced guide
- Round trip Transfers
- Uffizi Skip-the-line Ticket
Pick up time: Morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Tour start time: Late Morning
Guide Meeting Point: Piazza S. Firenze outside Hotel Bernini
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour end time: Early Afternoon
Return time: Evening
- Even though lunch is not included in this tour, we have built in some time for you to enjoy it in the center of Florence
Booked by scenset
We've built in some time for lunch and to explore Florence independently!
Your driver will take you back to the hotel in the early afternoon.
Meeting point: Piazza S. Firenze outside Hotel Bernini
Tonight enjoy dinner at Osteria dell'Enoteca. We have reserved a table for two in the evening.
Cancellation Policy: If you do not show up, or if you cancel with less than 6h notice, a fee will be charged to the credit/debit card provided.
Address: Via Romana, 70/r, 50125 Firenze FI, Italy
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
While most of Italy is about sightseeing, there’s nothing to visit per se on the Amalfi Coast. Instead of lavish churches and ancient monuments, the rugged coastline is the sight, best enjoyed from a hilltop al fresco restaurant, the bow of a yacht, or inside your car while navigating one of the world’s most scenic drives. Amalfi is a luxurious destination with a humble past, where glitzy villas still intermingle with sleepy fishing villages and bucolic lemon orchards.
Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the lobby of your hotel this morning and transfer you to the train station of Florence.
Pick up time: Morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Booked by Scenset
Hop on the first class wagons of a direct fast train to Naples and enjoy the views of the buzzing countryside as you make your way south.
Booked by Scenset
- A person
- A person
Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the arrival platform of your train in Naples; holding a sign with your name on it; and transfer you to your hotel in a luxury vehicle.
..But first a very important stop
Pick up time: Upon arrival of the train
Meeting location: Beyond the glass gate at platform 24
Booked by scenset
Italy is steeped in ancient history and today you will pass by one of the most well-preserved residues of it. Pompeii was a thriving citadelle in the reigning years of the Roman empire. A center for commerce, trade, art and science. In a catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 A.D it was buried under ash and pumice, thus preserving it to an impressive extend.
On your drive down to the Amalfi coast, make a stop to stretch the legs and learn about this site from your private local guide. The drive will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Inclusions:
- Private English-speaking licensed guide for approximately 2 hours in Pompeii
- Vehicle at disposal from Naples to Amalfi
- Pompeii entrance ticket
Tour start time: Around 2 PM, upon arrival to Pompeii
Tour Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Booked by Scenset
Arrive at your hotel and unwind—this afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Tonight enjoy dinner at the lemon room of O’ Parrucchiano. We have reserved a table for two in the evening.
Address: Corso Italia, 71, 80067 Sorrento NA, Italy
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
Why we love it for you: Perched on the ridge overlooking the sea, this is the ideal location for wide-open views of the Mediterranean Sea. A private whitewashed staircase leads to the small fishing village of Marina Grande down below, and every turn is somehow more breathtaking than the last.
La Minervetta, Sorrento
1x Deluxe Room Sea View - Twin beds
- Breakfast included
Booked By an individual
Today is a day at leisure! You are free to decide whether you want to spend it lounging by the water, exploring Ravello and Positano, or simply relaxing. The Italians have a special phrase for this: Dolce far niente.
Tonight enjoy dinner at Remmese Restaurant. We have reserved a table for two in the evening.
Address: V. G. Marconi, 171, 84017 Positano SA, Italy, located in Le Agavi Hotel.
Reserved by scenset - paid locally.
No vacation in Amalfi is complete without a boat ride! Today you will experience the magic of the azure seas.
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Bathing Suit
- Sunscreen
- A change of clothes
The tour begins with a classic "Welcome on Board" from our skipper! The boat trip will shortly start and you will immediately admire the incredible scenset, the breathtaking views and the marvelous coastline.
Once in Capri we will help you discover the White Grotto, The Green Grotto, The Faraglioni Rocks, Marina Piccola, Punta Carena, The Blue Grotto, with a team of professional skippers. There are different stops for swimming, snorkeling, jumping in the water, relaxing in the sun and feeling the Mediterranean life.
We will drop you off in the main harbor in Capri, Marina Grande, for free time to visit Capri and Anacapri or take you to one of the many great seaside restaurants of the blue Island.
There will also be some useful Capri travel information, moments of fun and relaxation on board wishing you to have a great time and enjoy la "Dolce Vita" journey.
Inclusions:
- 28 ft. private boat,
- English-speaking skipper
- Beach towels
- A bottle of prosecco, complementary water, fruit and small snacks, disembarkation tax included
- Round trip transfer to the port
Pick up time: Morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Embarkation: Morning
Duration: 8 hours
Booked by Scenset
At Capri, we suggest:
- Spending time in the famous "Piazzetta" of Capri.
- Get on the cable car and enjoy the views. We recommend taking the Chair Lift from Marina Grande to Monte Solaro, the highest peak of Capri.
- Visit gems such as the Gardens of Augustus, the Villa San Michele which is located on AnaCapri, Monte Solaro
- Should the weather conditions allow it, ask your skipper to take you to the Blu Grotto.
Recommendations - no reservation has been made
Tonight enjoy dinner at Lo Stuzzichino . We have reserved a table for two in the evening.
This restaurant offers a transfer.
- Please request this on the day of your reservation from the reception of La Minervetta. The restaurant transfer will pick you up from outside the hotel. Unfortunately this cannot be pre-booked but only arranged on the day.
Address: Corso Sant'Agata, 80061 Sant'Agata sui Due Golfi NA, Italy
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
La Minervetta, Sorrento
1x Deluxe Room Sea View - Twin beds
- Breakfast included
Booked By an individual
With an uncanny sense of foresight, Rome was first called the Eternal City 2,000 years ago. Even by today’s standards, it’s still grand in a way that few other places can compare to. The buildings are dilapidated and the roads disheveled, but chaos has never looked so exquisite. The cobblestone streets may be nonsensical, but a wrong turn always leads to an unexpected delight: an intimate piazza, a baroque fountain, or a homey trattoria serving house-made cacio e pepe.
Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the lobby of your hotel and transfer you to the Naples Train station where you will catch a train to Rome.
Pick up time: In the morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Booked by Scenset
Hop on the first class wagons of a direct fast train to Rome and enjoy the views of the buzzing countryside as you make your way north.
Booked by Scenset
- An individual
- An individual
Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the arrival platform of your train in Naples; holding a sign with your name on it; and transfer you to your hotel in a luxury vehicle.
Pick up time: Afternoon
Meeting location: the Pharmacy near platform number 1 - inside the train station
Booked by Scenset
Once you arrive you will have some time to relax at the hotel before stepping out to enjoy the city!
- Rome is wonderful to explore on foot, we recommend you pick a direction and walk to see daily Roman life in action!
- If you are into vintage designer finds check out Mercato Monti Urban Market, where you'll find handcrafted accessories and other treasures from local artisans. Nearby Via del Boschetto is lined with chic boutiques selling clothing and jewellery from independent designers
- Giardino degli Aranci is great to survey the Eternal City in citrus-shaded splendour from the heights of the Aventine Hill.
- For a spot of more secret sightseeing, peek through the keyhole of nearby Villa del Priorato di Malta for a hedge-framed glimpse of St Peter’s Dome.
- Villa Doria Pamphilj is Rome's largest park, divided into manicured gardens, stretches of forest, pine groves, and sections of wild vegetation.
- Testaccio Market in a lively central neighborhood of Rome, is full of bakeries offering freshly baked bread, stalls showcasing fresh produce, fish markets, butcher shops, and delicatessens.
- Porta Portese is a wonderful flea market for browsing - open on Sundays. It's a great spot for finding unique treasures.
- Pigneto is a neighborhood popular with Italian college students and thirty-somethings. It's rough around the edges but if you are interested in urban spaces and street art; it's worth checking out.
These are recommendations only - no bookings have been made.
Tonight enjoy dinner at Prati Rione Gastronomico . We have reserved a table for two in the evening.
Address: Piazza Giuseppe Mazzini, 5, 00195 Roma RM, Italy
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
Why we love it for you: Exclusive and charming spaces, where the eccentricity of Contemporary Art is perfectly combined with the rigour of architectures, shapes and colours, creating an exquisite blend of prestige, elegance and intensity. Located in authentic Rome near the majestic Trevi Fountain and Roman Forum, these spaces boast exquisite decor blending fine lines, vibrant colors, and retro-inspired elements. Enjoy the luxury of feeling at home with a unique blend of classical and modern textures, extravagant materials, and an embracing combination of intimacy, beauty, and charm.
Your hotel is a close partner to Scenset and for this reason you get to enjoy special perks!
- Upgraded Room, upon availability
- Early Check-in / Late Check-out, based on availability on the day of arrival / departure
- Complimentary mini-bar throughout stay
- A Credit that can be utilized at F&B outlets, and room service within the hotel.
Rome is more than the capital of a former world-dominating empire; it is the home of the papacy and the Catholic Church. The Vatican Palace has been the official residence of popes since the 17th century, and today you will visit it.
Please bring your passport with you for all Rome tours, as these are checked by security at the entrance.
Important: Entry to the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Vatican Gardens is permitted only to appropriately dressed visitors.
Low-cut or sleeveless clothing, shorts, miniskirts, and hats are not allowed.
It is mandatory to deposit in the cloakroom suitcases, backpacks, and containers larger than cm 40 x 35 x 15.
A trip to the Vatican is an unmissable experience on your visit to Rome. It houses some of the most stunning and priceless artistic treasures that can be found. Enjoy the beauty of the Vatican in the morning, before its opening to the general public. Your expert guide will take you through the wonders of the Vatican Museums, the exclusive Cabinet of the Masks, the Raphael Rooms, the Sistine Chapel, and Saint Peter's Basilica. Take one of the best-selling tours to avoid the crowds and immerse yourself in the magic of art and history!
Inclusions:
- Private guide
- Priority entrance
- Transfer from the hotel to the Vatican museum
- Transfer from the Vatican to the Colosseum
Pick up time: Early morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Tour start time: Early morning
Guide Meeting Point: Vatican Museums entrance (under the statue of
Michelangelo and Raphael)
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Booked by Scenset
Your driver will drive you over to the area of the Colosseum where you will have free time to wander around and enjoy a delicious lunch independently before continuing your day.
This tour is dedicated to exploring the most important landmarks of Ancient Rome. Start in Rome's most renowned monument; the Colosseum. Be treated to tales of emperors and gladiators before venturing into the Roman Forum to follow in the footsteps of triumphant generals. Here our expert guide will regale tales of the Forum’s scandals and intrigues before ascending the mythical Palatine Hill, where Romulus is said to have founded the city almost three millennia ago.
Inclusions:
- Priority skip-the-line entrance
- Private licensed guide
Tour start time: Afternoon
Guide Meeting Point: In front of the Colosseum metro station, by the green kiosque.
Tour Duration: 3 hours
Booked by scenset
Make your way back to the hotel at leisure after the tour.
Tonight enjoy dinner at Taverna dello Spuntino . We have reserved a table for two in the evening.
Address: Via Cicerone, 20, 00046 Grottaferrata RM, Italy
Reserved by Scenset - paid locally.
Today you depart from your trip filled with memories and wonderful experiences.
Your private English speaking driver will greet you at the lobby of your hotel and transfer you to the airport for your flight out.
Pick up time: In the morning
Meeting location: Hotel Lobby
Booed by Scenset
Board your return flight.
Flight numbers:
- Rome to Dublin: [Flight number removed]
- Dublin to JFK, New York : [Flight number removed]
Booked Independently