Imagine standing alone in the heart of the Colosseum, we have the network of contacts to make these imaginings reality.
Imagine standing alone in the heart of the Colosseum, looking up at the immense and ancient structure, a modern-day gladiator, or gazing up at the intricate murals of the Sistine Chapel in the serene silence of solitude. We have the network of contacts to make these imaginings reality.
Culture, archaelogy, art and cuisine - Italy is recognised for them all. Here we uncover the exclusive access that we can offer to the hidden piazzas, ancient wonders and artistic masterpieces that this inspirational country has to offer...
Designed in the early 19th Century by the renowned architect Giuseppe Valadier, Hotel de Russie, a Rocco Forte Hotel is the perfect stylish base for discovering the archaeological wonders of Rome. Centrally located in the heart of the city, the property is set between the Piazza del Popolo and the Spanish Steps. Only a short walk from both The Vatican and The Colosseum, we can arrange out of hours private visits to both of these iconic monuments. You can gaze above at the famous frescoes of the Sistine Chapel or stand underground within the ancient amphitheatre in complete exclusivity, enjoying plenty of time and space contemplating your surroundings and absorbing the history-soaked atmosphere in a way that only a few ever do.
Well-known for affording their guests a true taste of the location, Rocco Forte Hotels have taken personal training sessions to a whole new level at Hotel de Russie. For those of you who want to nourish both the body and soul, stay in shape with World Triathlon Champion, Danilo Palmucci. Danilo will accompany you on a unique jogging experience through the Eternal City. Wellness enthusiasts can mix exercise and culture as he guides you around some of Rome's most secret corners.
Florence is revered as the heart of the Italian Renaissance, with outstanding churches and captivating art museums designed and built by some of the most illustrious artists of all time. Just steps away from one of the most visited museums - the Accademia Gallery - you will find the chic and stylish Hotel Savoy, A Rocco Forte Hotel located in the centre of Florence. Together with the hotel's impressive concierge, we can obtain gallery tickets in advance with skip-the-line access; a superb way to glimpse the world-renowned imposing marble statue of David, created by the genius Michelangelo.
Dating back to 1564, a little-known passageway was built to allow the Grand Duke of Florence, Cosimo I de' Medici and his family to journey from their home, Palazzo Pitti, to the other side of the River Arno and onto the Palazzo della Signoria, the government palace.
Stroll down the Vasari Corridor - an astounding architectural masterpiece of the Renaissance - we can arrange a private tour of the newly opened walkway. Before your tour, we recommend visiting the must-see halls of the Uffizi Gallery, the home of classic treasures from Leonardo da Vinci and Filippo Lippi.
A country famed for its art-filled hotels, Italy is immersed in history and the 16th Century Gritti Palace, A Luxury Collection Hotel, is the perfect place to discover exceptional paintings and true Venetian architecture. Occupying a prominent spot on the Grand Canal, elite global influencers flock to the former Venetian Palace for reputable events such as the Biennale of Contemporary Art and the Venice Film Festival.
As part of the hotel's Destination Discoveries, a concierge curated experience series, The Gritti Palace has arranged an exclusive, limited tour unveiling the hotel's artistic gems. Throughout its history as a private palazzo and a luxury hotel, exceptional fine art, cherished antiques and treasured furniture have been collected. An antique expert leads the tour, providing a wealth of knowledge about these unique pieces.
Not only popular for its fascinating art, the Italian gastronomy causes a stir with foodies from all nations. Sharpen up your culinary skills in one of the best epicurean schools in Venice and learn the secrets of Italian cooking from The Gritti Palace's Executive Chef, Daniele Turco.
The half-day private classes begin by sourcing local ingredients from one of the oldest food fairs in Venice, the Rialto Market. Before heading back to the kitchen at the hotel for the cooking lesson, soak in vistas of the Grand Canal from a traditional bacaro whilst you sip on a typical Venetian aperitivo and snack on delicious cicchetti. A three-day stay and cook course is offered for budding gastronomes who wish to journey deeper into the Italian flavours.