Teaghan visits Rome and Venice

It’s not every day you get the rare delight of experiencing a Kirker-guided trip, but this March, I had the absolute pleasure of receiving an invitation.

Along with eight fellow agents, we took off from Heathrow bright and early, landing in the enchanting city of Rome just before 9 a.m. A seamless private transfer whisked us from FCO to our first accommodation: the elegant Baglioni Hotel Regina. Warmly welcomed with a mug of that quintessentially perfect Italian coffee, we stored our bags and set off for our first site inspection: the grand and storied Villa Spalletti Trivelli.

History is wall to wall in Villa Spalletti Trivelli

This magnificent residence, once a noble manor, is still owned by the aristocratic family who originally lived within its walls - and, in fact, still do! With family photographs spanning generations and artifacts dating back centuries, the villa is steeped in history yet exudes an inviting warmth, making it a truly one-of-a-kind, family-run boutique property. After admiring its spacious suites, stately corridors, and tranquil gardens, we were treated to an indulgent three-course lunch featuring a velvety zucchini risotto, flavourful straccetti di manzo, and a delicate, perfectly sweet millefoglie.

With our stomachs happily full, we set out to explore Rome with our guide, Joseph. We began at the Quirinal Palace, the official residence of the Italian President, before meandering toward the iconic Trevi Fountain. Travelling in the off-season was a blessing - it was still bustling, but nothing compared to the summer’s chaotic swarms. We managed to snap some postcard-worthy photos without the peril of a rogue selfie stick invading the frame.

The Trevi Fountain

A true jaw-dropper was the Sant’Ignazio Basilica, a breathtaking Baroque church adorned with 3D frescos so masterful, they practically reach out to you. We wrapped up the tour with visits to the awe-inspiring Pantheon and the lively Piazza Navona - once an ancient chariot-racing arena, now a vibrant gathering spot framed by the majestic Sant’Agnese in Agone and its commanding fountains.

As daylight faded, we seized the opportunity to see the Colosseum and Spanish Steps illuminated at night - because why limit sightseeing to business hours? But first, dinner. Our hosts at Baglioni Hotel Regina treated us to an opulent evening, kicking off with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the hotel’s lavish three-bedroom penthouse suite. The meal itself was a symphony of flavours: a delicate amuse-bouche, indulgent cacio e pepe, and a melt-in-your-mouth beef fillet with Giudi-style artichoke and velvety mashed potatoes. And then, the showstopper - Tiramisu Regina, featuring a decadent dark chocolate and espresso heart that oozed with each heavenly bite. A post-dinner stroll to the Colosseum and Spanish Steps, virtually deserted at this hour, was the perfect digestif. Next visit, I’d love to visit the Colosseum during the day and venture inside to soak in its epic history.

Our final morning in Rome was spent at the Vatican with our guide, Fabrizio. It was teeming with visitors, reinforcing just how vital it is to book well in advance. We navigated the vast Vatican Museum, marvelling at ancient marble and bronze sculptures and relics, before culminating in the world-renowned Sistine Chapel. Sadly, this marked the end of our Roman holiday - but not to worry, our Venetian adventure awaited.

After a smooth four-hour first-class train ride, we arrived in Venice, the city of canals and timeless charm. A scenic water taxi ride from the train station (or Marco Polo Airport, if you fly) ushered us into this floating wonderland. Our home for the next leg of the journey? The exquisite Baglioni Hotel Luna. Across all the Baglioni properties, the staff radiate warmth and hospitality, ensuring you feel at home from the moment you arrive, no matter how weary your travels.

Following a brief hotel inspection, we sat down to a delectable dinner featuring delicate sea bass with fava purée, a robust Mediterranean pasta, and an array of divine desserts - from shimmering lemon meringue tarts to decadent biscuits and truffles. And, of course, an endless supply of Italy’s finest wines.

We woke to a misty Venetian morning – nothing that a few Brits can’t handle. And let’s be honest, Venice stuns in any weather. Our walking tour, led by our expert guide, began in St. Mark’s Square, where we admired the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica and its imposing Bell Tower. Next, we explored the adjacent Doge’s Palace - a labyrinth of gilded halls, ornate frescoes, and cavernous stone fireplaces. It’s a place steeped in history, though in the past, it was the last stop for those unfortunate enough to cross the wrong people. After a short walk across the eerie Bridge of Sighs, we entered the ancient prison, where graffiti from prisoners as recent as the 1930s still adorns the stone walls. Among the infamous inmates? Venetian explorer Giacomo Casanova, who infamously escaped the prison by hiding in a heaping plate of pasta, exiting through the ceiling, and heading to Paris via Gondala. I suppose there’s far less delicious ways to escape incarceration (cues Shawshank Redemption).

Luckily the sun came out on our last day in Venice, so we were able to see the city in a whole new light (literally)

We had worked up an appetite, and midday were invited to LPV Ristorante & Bistrot, nestled within the elegant Hotel Londra Palace, perfectly perched along the Grand Canal. With a menu that celebrates the sea, we began with a delicate yet flavourful sea bass tartare, followed by perfectly seared Mediterranean tuna. And, of course, no Venetian meal would be complete without tiramisu - this one a heavenly balance of light and indulgent, served with airy, house-made ladyfingers for dipping. The staff was nothing short of wonderful, ensuring we were well-fed and thoroughly spoiled for the day ahead.

We had some downtime between lunch and dinner, where I took advantage of the spa at Baglioni Hotel Luna. The steam room and relaxation room were wonderful and free of charge, the only requirement being to book your hour time slot in advance. Feeling refreshed and ready to take on the night, that evening, we dined at the charming family-run Osteria Oliva Nera. With its rustic, wood-beamed interiors and glowing, intimate atmosphere, it was the perfect setting for savouring Venetian delicacies such as creamy Baccalà Mantecato and Saor con polenta. But the undeniable star of the meal? A layered yet delicate lasagna, crafted from Nonna’s time-honoured recipe.

Venice scenes straight out of a post card

As a grand finale to our Venetian escape, we attended Musica a Palazzo, a one-of-a-kind immersive opera experience set in a lavish Renaissance palace. Moving from room to room for each act made us feel like silent guests at a centuries-old drama, witnessing love, betrayal, and heartbreak unfold in real time. The performers’ talent was nothing short of mesmerizing, creating a truly magical last evening in Venice.

Our final morning brought clear skies, and what better way to bid Venice farewell than with its most quintessential experience - a gondola ride! At €90 for a half-hour, it’s an incredibly worthwhile and serene journey through the city’s winding canals. Our gondolier was brimming with knowledge and anecdotes, making each turn an exploration of Venice’s soul. With one last glass of crisp white wine in the sunshine, we boarded our water taxi and began our journey home.

From the grandeur of Rome to the romance of Venice, this trip was a dream from start to finish. Each city wove its own magic, from Rome’s rich history and indulgent cuisine to Venice’s timeless beauty and atmospheric charm. The Kirker touch made everything seamless, allowing us to soak in more unforgettable moments than we ever thought possible in just a few days. As I watched the sun glisten over the Venetian canals one last time, I knew this wasn’t goodbye - just arrivederci. One thing is certain - I’ll be back!

If, after reading this, you're eager to visit Rome and Venice, please get in touch with Teaghan to discuss your perfect trip.