There will be no wondering when you book any tour with City Wonders. I have been more than impressed and astounded, from start to finish, on every tour I have been privileged enough to experience with this company. This statement alone is quite remarkable, as I’m known as an extremely tough travel critic. I essentially must be tough for my job brings with it the responsibility to protect and advise tourists. That said, I state with 100% honesty, when looking for a tour with the most stellar tour company anywhere, run and book with City Wonders Tours.
City Wonders was created from research, extensive planning, and genuine passion to present their guests with the most wonderful travel experience that promises to be filled with adventure. On their tours, you will have the amazing advantage of a no-wait, skip-the-line access, and early admission entrance normally closed to the public. If you’ve ever traveled, you know this is a big deal, indeed. No matter what excursion you decide on, you will undoubtedly experience stress-free, unforgettable, insightful, and entertaining tours, across Europe’s most stunning cities. This is truly a relief and brings the assurance all your travels will be enjoyable.
It all began over 19 years ago when the company’s founder and CEO, Simone Gozzi wanted to show Rome in a new light, bringing travelers an incredibly memorable experience in the Eternal City. His goal fundamentally sparked the heart of City Wonders. Gozzi’s concept embraced smaller groups, exclusive customer benefits, exceptional guides, and excellent customer service. The beauty of City Wonders excursions is how guests never endure over-crowded ordinary tours, with sub-standard inexperienced guides, and unacceptable long waits in line.
Furthermore, the blueprint worked out so well the company expanded across Rome and throughout Italy to Florence, Milan, and Venice. Recently they’ve progressed further with tours in London, Paris, Barcelona, and the Americas. And through it all, they stayed true to their perfected strategy. Their brilliant, successful plan earned them thousands of 5-star reviews and recognition as the number one travel experience worldwide by Trip Advisor. Which is a huge, big deal! And I too, wholeheartedly agree with both the 5–star reviews and the best travel experience I’ve ever had.
It’s important to express the City Wonders’ guides are extraordinary. All of them! It’s obvious they are carefully chosen for their personality, expertise, and a relentless desire to share great reverence for their city. All City Wonders guides are fluent in English and experts in their field. It’s apparent they love their careers with immense passion. Through my own experiences on City Wonders tours, all the guides possess amazing entertaining personalities and are naturalborn storytellers. Throughout my 3 tours in Italy, I felt as though I was being transported across centuries, making the past come to life. Corny as can be, I realize. Nevertheless, completely true.
Florence Fully Guided Tour
Uffizi Gallery-Michelangelo’s David-and Accademia
I greatly enjoyed all of Florence’s breathtaking sights on this 2-hour walking tour. It was quite incredible how we casually saw so much in such a short period of time. I enjoyed a flawless tour that provided me with skip-the-line access to the Accademia, as well as the spectacular Duom.
My talented, professional, English-speaking guide, Angelo, was so animated and fun to hang with. Through the provided audio headset, Florence (A city I thought I knew everything there was to know about) came to life with Angelo’s interesting commentary. From the ancient town’s history, important people, and its celebrated art and architecture, I factually discovered Florence!
We toured Palazzo Vecchio in Piazza Della Signoria, including the iconic Uffizi Courtyard, Giotto’s Campanile, and the treasured Ponte Vecchio Bridge. There is much to see in this beautiful Renaissance City. Luckily it was made easier as we were provided with skip-the- line entrance tickets for Accademia Gallery and Michelangelo’s David. We also saw Florence’s Cathedral (the Duomo) from the outside, the golden Baptistry Doors, and the famous Leather Market. Angelo told us legendary stories of the city as well as the tale of the bore in the market. He spoke of the bore’s coin toss, assuring our return to lovely Firenze. Few cities in the world contain the endless stunning works of art as there are in the glorious city of Florence. The credit for all the unbelievable works of art & statues essentially goes to the notorious Medici Family.
We visited the Duomo Square, where the astounding Florence Cathedral is. It is known as Il Duomo, for the exquisite, impressive dome that majestically crowns it. Angelo explained the long history of how it came to be. This incredible feat of engineering required a new process for its construction, which our conversant guide described. From the horrific Medieval Era to the glorious Renaissance years, to the present day, Angelo brought Florence to life through the ages.
And then, the greatest marvel of all the artistic marvels to behold, we visited Michelangelo’s David! In Florence, ‘David’ is paramount on every traveler’s to-do list. This ingenious vision, this dazzling work of art, leaves visitors awestruck after having queued in line for hours to witness the truly astonishing masterpiece. Fortunately, we enjoyed skip the line access and a prereserved entry time at the Accademia Gallery. Hence, we didn’t waste precious time, that was better spent inside with David. Angelo presented complete explanations of how the sculpture emerged from the rock. We learned about Michelangelo’s technique in sculpting. An art form he considered far above painting. He informed us that Michelangelo was the 3rd artist to accomplish this astronomical feat. Viewing ‘David’ (no matter how many times) is an unforgettable experience. Angelo also made sure that we witnessed the best angles to view the sculptor and explained why this statue of the youth, who slew Goliath, is different from thousands of others.
I cannot express enough that this is a city which needs a guide so that you will not miss any of the important sights, and in addition, you will learn all about the city. A guide will help you to fully appreciate your time in Florence. Any of City Wonders’ dynamic tours in Florence will provide you with all the information to make your trip one that will forever be cherished.
Murano & Burano Islands
Fully Guided Small Group Tour with Private Boat
THE LAND & SEA EXPERIENCE
I loved this tour with the lovely, experienced, friendly, guide Serena. Even though I had been to Venice, Italy countless times, I cannot believe this was my first time visiting the Vibrant, colorful charms of the Murano and Burano Islands. We were escorted and whisked off onto a Private Boat Tour. This was not only tremendous fun but also a wonderful opportunity to see the surrounding areas of Venice. On the way, I admired the ‘City of Bridges’ from the water with sweeping views and enjoyable commentary from the proficient Serena, my guide.
Upon arriving in Murano, we had the rare opportunity to watch Venetian Artisan experts create Murano glassblowing in the factory. It was absolutely, mind-blowing how talented and creative these artists are. No matter how big the piece they are creating, one mistake and it immediately gets thrown away. We were informed that all glassmaking was moved to this tiny group of islands in the Middle Ages, and it was the only place where mirrors were made for centuries. Techniques were so hush-hush that perpetrators risked execution for leaking them. In addition, artists were not allowed to leave Murano for fear they would be captured and forced to reveal the glass secrets. Fortunately for the world, times have changed and now we are able to behold exactly what has made Murano glass so sought after for nearly 750 years. We all marveled as the craftsmen shaped molten glass into dazzling works of art. It was amazing to see the sparkling treasures come to life as we observed how the colors, and the most ambitious shapes came to be. After the demonstration, we had the special privilege of seeing the factories’ world-famous Murano creations with the offer to purchase if we so chose. I’m not going to lie… I chose!
I’d like to extend my great appreciation and admiration to the owner of the New Murano Gallery S.r. L, Andrea Perotta. He is truly the mastermind of the extraordinary Murano glass creations. I also extend kudos to Mario Casarotto for his astounding knowledge of this art,
traditions, and his friendly guidance as he took me around to witness all the magnificent glass sculptures. The factories creations and showrooms are a palace of brilliance, forward-thinking, and new cutting-edge forms of astonishing art. Bravo to you both.
Afterward, we were given free time in Murano (without being hurried, like most tour companies do) to enjoy its lovely canals and the San Donato church, which is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture.
Next, we were back on the boat and off to the quaint, vibrant town of Burano. It is truly a magical little city and is considered to be one of the most colorful places in the world. When in Venice, do take a few hours to visit this uniquely lovely island! This small fishing community, with its brightly multi-colored houses, also offers the world some of the finest handmade lace anywhere. We were given a wonderful opportunity to witness a demonstration of the work in progress. Witnessing this cultural tradition in action as women stitch by hand, like countless generations before them was remarkable. The legendary lace pieces were magnificent, and we were able to browse their Collections as well.
After the demonstration, we were given ample free time to visit the lace museum and stroll Burano’s vibrant waterways. We were also able to explore the beautiful Islands’ hidden gems, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy all the unique stores, churches, splendid bakeries, delicacies, and experience the foods of the famous city. As for myself, I didn’t miss the chance to devour (and take home) their celebrated Bussola Buranello cookies and enjoy an Aperol Spritz with it.
After so many trips to Venice, I learned that no trip to Venice is complete without discovering the Venetian Lagoon’s two most memorable islands. I was thrilled to have seen the timeless arts of glassblowing and lacemaking and the unbelievable mastery of their artisans. Lovely, these 2 art forms have lasted through the ages. The overwhelming allure brought by the tranquil canals & charming piazzas of these vibrant islets is something special and not to be missed! So, don’t!
Tuscany Day Trip from Rome
With a 3-Course Lunch and Wine Tasting Included
The tour begins in the ancient land of Rome…
As we began our journey (sitting comfortably on a luxurious tour bus with an amazing, experienced driver) our fabulous guide, Fabrizio Barba, educated us about the Eternal City. Rome, a mystical part of the world, is filled with unimaginable secrets. He explained facts that most of us, (even the most experienced tourists), didn’t know about. With his encyclopedia of knowledge, Fabrizio illuminated the incredible historic facts of Rome’s past. He also discussed trivial topics such as the birth of the Napoleon Margarita pizza. He clarified and I quote, “All roads don’t lead to Rome… They start with Rome!” His knowledge of this region was brilliant. And might I also add, a joy to listen to, as his personality was so fun, dazzling, and dynamic!
Leaving Rome Towards the magical, Bellissimo Tuscany
On our incredible tour (one of my favorites by the way) we escaped Rome for the day and visited the most picturesque region of the Italian countryside, Tuscany. Everywhere we looked was like seeing a picture postcard. There is no way possible for me to describe adequately the true beauty of this region. The gorgeous landscapes and panoramas of the medieval towns of Montepulciano and Pienza, are nothing short of godlike and inspirational. What a joy to have been able to experience all the phenomenal panoramas. I felt as though I was gazing at a Hollywood Italian movie backdrop, as it was too beautiful to believe my own eyes. Tuscany displays heavenly visions that literally take one’s breath away. The vibrant green rolling hills, the ancient houses and buildings, the wine vineyards, the unusual Italian trees, and olive trees bestowed spectacular landscapes that are beyond storybook. My goodness, how could I forget about the cheese and delicious Italian foods of this region? If you have never been to Tuscany, I will tell you that you are seriously missing out on something immensely special in your life.
I experienced the Best of Tuscany in a Day with a small tour, guided by the sensational Fabrizio. We started our journey driving through ultra-curvy roads towards our visit to the ancient, enchanting town of Montepulciano. (FYI, parts of the Twilight film were filmed here.) Our first stop was the hilltop town of Montepulciano, for a walking tour with an expert local guide. When we first arrived, we all hovered around, standing over the ancient walls to witness the mesmerizing views. I discovered the narrow streets, theatrical clock towers, and ancient wine cellars in this care-free town were mindboggling. This was the first time I had to pinch myself.
Next, we immersed ourselves in the majestic inspirational architecture of the Renaissance church, St. Biagio’s. This temple is the result of an exceptional synthesis between the artistic language of the Renaissance and the beauty of the Tuscan landscape, due to its peculiar location in the midst of a breathtaking landscape overlooking the Tuscan hills. The church, an example of a Renaissance Greek cross-central plan, was used for the original design by Bramante and Michelangelo for St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Next on the journey, having worked up an appetite, and as you’d expect, everyone on the tour enjoyed going to a renowned Vineyard for a 3-Course Lunch and Wine Tasting. A vineyard producing one of the most important wines in Italy. We all savored our lunch that was served using locally sourced products of the lovely vineyard, also famous for Brunello di Montalcino. I have gone on this tour a few times because I love it so much. However, Fattoria Pulcino Ristorante was supremely generous. We tasted about 10 wines and devoured around 8 courses. Several bruschetta samples, meats, cheeses, soup, salad, pasta, and regional desserts. Yep, suffice it to say, we were full! (For like a week!) While exploring the unique world of the Renaissance, we were also able to purchase signature wine here at the vineyard, as well as in Pienza…
Our tour continued with a leisurely visit to the charming village of Pienza. Famous for its Pecorino cheese and more spectacular views of the Tuscan countryside. It was fabulous ending our tour in Pienza after tasting Pecorino’s cheese, exquisite views, and departing with a gelato cone in hand. Yum! Come on, how could I not?!?!
Throughout the entire day, Fabrizio explained everything about this part of Italy. He was fun, professional, interesting, and enormously knowledgeable. Nevertheless, you simply must be this exceptional to be a tour guide with City Wonders!
Note, the UNESCO World Heritage village was completely redesigned by Pope Pius in the 15th century. It became the template for Renaissance towns in Europe. Furthermore, being in the heart of this UNESCO World Cultural Landscape, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Tuscan hills were unforgettable and brought everyone on the tour, endless reasons to return. Hopefully soon!
We enjoyed the perfect amount of time to explore Pienza, shopping for local food and wines, taking photographs, and eating gelato. Hey back off. Yes, it was my second gelato of the day. Oh, Yada- Yada… trust me, you would do the same.
This enchanting tour through Tuscany brought a lifetime of gorgeous visual memories to each of us lucky enough to experience this awe-inspiring journey! To be honest, it was even more than I had hoped for! But as I had previously mentioned, this is the fairy-tale magic that City Wonders Tours always delivers. I know that I speak for everyone on this tour that this experience in Tuscany will last a lifetime. Thank you, City Wonders. You’re the best of the best! ~ ~ ~
Keep in mind, these were just 3 of the magnificent adventures offered by City Wonders. Don’t forget to check out their other tours in Rome, Vatican, Florence, Venice, Cinque Terre, Positano, Pompeii, Amalfi and the coast, London Cancun, Milan, Paris, Barcelona, and Miami!
I rate these 3 tours, (as well as their other tours) all the tour guides, plus the whole City Wonders organization… A perfect A-Plus!
To contact City Wonders: 6-9 Trinity St, Dublin, D02 EY47, Ireland info@citywonders.com Ireland (Dublin-HQ): +353 (0) 1 541 4848 UK: (+44) 800 098 8019 USA and Canada: (+1) 800 358 1942 Italy: +39 06 8336 0561 France: +33 (0) 170371426 Spain: (+34) 900 838 432 Australia: (+61) 1 800 790 369
