Ultimate Italy | 2025
Ultimate Italy | 2025
Ultimate Italy | 2025
22 Days Starting in Rome and ending in Palermo
Visiting: Rome, Siena, Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Como, Milan, Verona, Venice, Bologna, Pompeii , Metropolitan City of Naples, Capri, Amalfi Coast, Positano, Catania, Taormina, Free municipal consortium of Syracuse, Noto, Valley of the Temples, Cefalu, Palermo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BBUIMP20
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 50
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History, Photography, Rail Tours
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Ultimate Italy | 2025" tour and experience the best of Italy's cultural and historical treasures. Begin your journey in Rome, exploring iconic landmarks and indulging in authentic Italian cuisine. Travel through the medieval streets of Siena, the Renaissance wonders of Florence, and the picturesque landscapes of Lucca and Pisa. Discover the stunning coastal beauty of Cinque Terre and the elegance of Milan. Wander through the romantic city of Verona and the enchanting canals of Venice. Continue to the vibrant cities of Naples and the Amalfi Coast, with stops in Capri and Positano. Conclude your adventure in Sicily, visiting Catania, Taormina, Syracuse, and Palermo, each offering unique historical and culinary delights. This tour promises an unforgettable Italian escapade filled with breathtaking sights, delicious food, and rich cultural experiences.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Archimede (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Rome! Once known as the 'capital of the world' this richly historic, passionate and elegant city will steal our hearts as soon as we arrive. We'll meet and greet our Contiki crew at 4pm, before taking to the streets for an included Italian feast. After dinner we'll head on an orientation tour of the city ticking off all the sights in Rome.
Day 2: Rome To Florence Via Siena
Location: Rome, Siena, Florence
Accommodation Name: BB Centro (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise and shine, we're headed to another historical heavyweight today...But not before stopping off at Siena for lunch. This place has medieval masterpieces and the historic city centre has been declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. We'll soak up all of that historic beauty and grab a bite before heading onto Florence...Florence is one of the foodie capitals of Italy, so we won't waste any time trying the local delicacies with an included feast. Then we'll turn in for the night, dreaming of the Florentine adventures that await us tomorrow.
Day 3: Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: BB Centro (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Florence is often referred to as a 'walking museum', and today we'll find out why. With a locally guided walking tour, we'll discover Renaissance Florence on foot, swooning at Giotto's Bell Tower, Basilica Santa Croce, and Piazza della Signoria. We'll also see the Duomo, one of the world's most remarkable architectural feats. Later, we’ll get together for a Tuscan Risotto Evening indulging in Chianti wine from the nearby vineyards. Learn how to make risotto whilst our hosts have cooked up a feast of antipasto and Italian specialties. Save some room for ‘dolce’ i.e a mystery homemade dessert!
Day 4: Florence To Cinque Terre Via Lucca And Pisa
Location: Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Cinque Terre
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Grazie (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Farewell, Florence. We'll never forget you. But we've got more dreamy Italian hot spots to hit up.We can't be this way of the world without a sneaky visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Depriving you of the chance to perfect the holding-up-the-tower shot would be criminal.Another stopover will let us check out lovely Lucca, with its charming piazzas, Renaissance architecture and historic cafes. Opt for wines at the local vineyards outside of Lucca. Or it's a perfect spot to grab a bite before we hit the road again.Welcome to the Italian Riviera! You're going to fall head over heels with this region over the coming days...
Day 5: Cinque Terre
Location: Cinque Terre
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Grazie (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Some people think Cinque Terre is just one place, but it actually translates to the ‘five lands’ and is made up of 5 stunning towns with their own unique identity and traditions. Included in your trip is an unlimited Cinque Terre hike and train ticket, and whichever way you choose to get around will be sure to make you fall in love with the dramatic cliff-faces and pastel coloured buildings.
Day 6: Cinque Terre To Milan Via Como
Location: Cinque Terre, Como, Milan
Accommodation Name: BB Sesto San Giovanni (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We're hitting the road today to one of the most elegant cities in Europe.But not before experiencing the glitz and glamour of Lake Como, with its attractive villages and gorgeous gardens. The showstopper is the lake itself, of course, and we'll have the option to get out on the water and take a cruise to beautiful Bellagio.Welcome to Milan, the sophisticated cityscape that rewards the curious traveller. We have a free night to check out the local nightlife, and eat some of the local delicacies. As always, your Trip Manager will have the top tips on where to go and where to avoid...
Day 7: Milan To Venice Via Verona
Location: Milan, Verona, Venice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Villa Pace Park Hotel Bolognese (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The dreamy destinations just don't stop coming...Welcome to Verona, the heart of Renaissance romance (and the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet). Beautiful architecture, rich history and plenty of jaw-dropping art makes this place a very worthy stopover. We'll check out Juliet's balcony, part of a gorgeous 13th century house then it's onto another very romantic city...Welcome to Treviso! Nothing like a free evening to spend away the Italian way...Tonight you'll have the option to walk around this idyllic version of Venice (before taking on the real thing tomorrow!). Grab some local food on the way. And maybe even treat yourself to some tiramisu (because this little town is where it was born!). Seriously, it doesn't get more authentic than this.
Day 8: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Villa Pace Park Hotel Bolognese (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake-up sleeping beauties! Hop onto our coach because we've got this entire day to explore Venice. We'll be jumping aboard our own private boat and crossing the canal en route to the historical heart of the city. A gondola ride will be up for grabs, or you can always choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you. Later, maybe opt to cruise to the UNESCO-listed island of Burano and enjoy a sumptuous seafood dinner.
Day 9: Venice To Rome Via Bologna
Location: Venice, Bologna, Rome
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Archimede (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
See ya, Venice. You'll always have a piece of our hearts. Today we're headed back to Rome to explore the city in more depth.But not before making a quick stop in Bologna. Home of prosciutto, mortadella, bolognese sauce and many more tasty Italian delights, Bologna is known far and wide as La Grassa (the Fat One). Come hungry, but make sure you’re not too full to explore the Unesco-listed porticoes either.With our eyes wide and camera roll full, we'll have a free night for dinner and a chance to discover the finest food Rome has to offer. Washed down with some fine Italian wine? If you say so.
Day 10: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Archimede (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city. This is also the day to do a bit of your own exploring, an included dinner tonight will refuel us after a day of sightseeing. Take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel. Religious or not, the Vatican's Italian Renaissance church will send shivers down your spine.
Day 11: Rome To Naples
Location: Rome, Pompeii , Metropolitan City of Naples
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Vergilius Billia (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we're headed to another richly historical and cultural city, known for its naturally beautiful sights and excellent cuisine.Here in the ancient city of Pompeii you will have the option to partake in a guided walking tour of the fascinating Roman town that was destroyed by Vesuvius and then perfectly preserved in volcanic ash.Welcome to Naples, the rough and ready but oh so charming city which encapsulates everything we love about Italy. The home of pizza, a hub of culture, and a bundle of passionate Italian energy. Today we have the option to take a tour, learning about the city, its history and its food culture.
Day 12: Naples To Amalfi Coast Via Capri
Location: Metropolitan City of Naples, Capri, Amalfi Coast
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Salerno (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We're headed to the coast today to check out some of the most glamorous seascapes in Europe.Next up is Capri, with its gorgeous cragged coastline and opulent cafes. Its easy to see why this is such a playground for the rich and famous. An optional Capri cruise will let us check out plenty of swim stops to beat the heat.We'll settle on the Amalfi Coast after a day of postcard pretty sun bleached buildings and sparkling sea.
Day 13: Amalfi Coast (Including Positano)
Location: Amalfi Coast, Positano, Amalfi Coast
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Salerno (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We've got a free day on the Amalfi coast! Lucky us. There are plenty of optionals today to keep us entertained, including a visit to a lemon farm, run by a local family whose ancestors introduced the crop and have been care takers of an age old tradition ever since. Here we learn how these huge, sunshine coloured fruits are harvested and turned into limoncello.We'll visit one of Amalfi's spectacular jewels today. Dramatic cliffs and idyllic buildings await us in picturesque Positano.You've got the entire evening for yourself. Roam the streets, taste some wine, live the Italian life we've all dreamed of.
Day 14: Amalfi Coast To Rome
Location: Amalfi Coast, Rome
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Genova (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We're headed back to Rome today. Time for the Colosseum?Back in Rome, we better put on your centurion helmets because we're going on a guided tour around all the Roman ruins, and even the mighty Colosseum. Afterwards, you'll have the chance to head out to a local restaurant and make (and eat) your very own pasta.
Day 15: Rome To Catania
Location: Rome, Catania
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Villa Del Bosco (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today we're hopping on a speedy flight to the incomparable isle of Sicily.This colourful cacophony of baroque piazzas and ancient ruins is the perfect place to get acquainted with Sicily. We'll have a chance to check out Catania's UNESCO listed historic core before an included dinner in a local restaurant. Can you taste the difference in Sicilian cuisine? It has to be up there...
Day 16: Catania To Taormina
Location: Catania, Taormina
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Main Palace Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We've got more spectacular Sicilian towns to explore today, as we head from Catania to Taormina.Uniquely perched on the side of a mountain, this elegant resort town is the perfect place to live the good life in Italy. We'll waste no time admiring the gorgeous panoramas, as we take the cable car that connects the town's historic centre with its awesome beaches. After sunning ourselves for a bit, why not opt for a cooking class with some local masterchefs, learning how to whip up local delicacies like Arancini & Cannoli? It's the perfect way to impress everyone when you get back home.
Day 17: Taormina
Location: Taormina
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Main Palace Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we've got an unmissable optional for you. Sicily’s stupendous stratovolcano Mt Etna is the highest active volcano in Europe. And what better way to experience this majestic monster than on an adrenaline filled ride, as you pass vineyards and orchards spread across the fertile slopes? You won’t find views quite like this anywhere in Europe. Whether or not you opt for the tour, you'll have a free afternoon to explore Taormina - lazing on the beach, checking out the Roman theatre or sitting and drinking a spritz as life lazily moves by. It's a hard life.
Day 18: Taormina To Syracuse Via Noto
Location: Taormina, Free municipal consortium of Syracuse, Noto, Free municipal consortium of Syracuse
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Panorama (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
See ya, Taormina – it's time to visit some historical hotspots. Next stop, Syracuse.We’ll have some free time to check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Syracuse. Famed for its rich Roman and Greek history, with ancient amphitheatres and architecture everywhere you look, this place was even mentioned in the Bible (how's that for history creds?).Our next outing is to Noto, home to some of Sicily’s most impressive historic architecture. We’ll check out the Corso Vittoria Emanuele and other legendary landmarks, and then it’s off to an organic farm for a Tastes of Sicily experience – the freshest Sicilian ingredients, brought to us direct from farm to table. Just what the doctor ordered!And after a long day, it’s time to hit the hay. ’Til tomorrow, friends.
Day 19: Syracuse To Cefalù Via Valley Of The Temples
Location: Free municipal consortium of Syracuse, Valley of the Temples, Cefalu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel La Giara (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Heading from Syracuse we'll arrive in the Valley of the Temples, the perfect base to explore another ancient wonder...We won't be leaving Italy without a tour of the Valley of the Temples. This mystical valley is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological heritage. We'll discover ancient temples, sanctuaries and a necropolis. It’s a spectacular testament to Sicily’s ancient history (and natural beauty).Arriving in Cefalù we'll enjoy another included dinner of Sicilian delicacies. What a day - and we're not done yet.
Day 20: Cefalù
Location: Cefalu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel La Giara (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cefalu is a real gem, home to Sicily's best beaches and most impressive Arabic architecture. This truly is the island that keeps on giving. Today's all about coastal vibes, soaking up that sun, sea and sand - with plenty of water sports to get involved with. If you're feeling a little more zen, why not opt for the coastal cruise and soak up some scenery instead? Later on we'll stroll the winding cobbled streets and watch fishermen taking stock of the day's bounties, before exploring the town's foodie and nightlife scene. Ah, Sicily - sigh.
Day 21: Cefalù To Palermo
Location: Cefalu, Palermo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Hotel Federico II Central Palace (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's time to end on a high, as we make our way towards Sicily's sizzling capital.Palermo is vivacious, colourful and boasts a thriving culinary scene, but it’s also been plagued by organised crime for decades. Today on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® experience, you can join a walking tour through the historic centre, learning about the history of the Mafia in Palermo and how the civil antiMafia movement was formed. We'll round things off with a farewell dinner at Al Fresco, AKA the 'bistro of second chances'.
Day 22: End Palermo
Location: Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Time to head home after one final breakfast together. Hug it out, swap social details - and don't be sad, we'll see each other on the road again soon.
What's Included
-
Italian Feast in Rome
Enjoy an included Italian feast on your first night in Rome.
-
Guided Walking Tour in Florence
Experience a locally guided walking tour of Florence, including sights like the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, and Giotto’s Bell Tower.
-
Cinque Terre Rail Pass
Receive an unlimited Cinque Terre hike and train ticket to explore the five stunning towns.
-
Tuscan Risotto Evening
Indulge in a Tuscan Risotto Evening with Chianti wine and a feast of antipasto and Italian specialties.
-
Orientation Tour of Rome
Take an orientation tour of Rome, ticking off all the major sights.
-
Dinner in Catania
Enjoy an included dinner in a local restaurant in Catania.
-
Dinner in Cefalù
Savor an included dinner of Sicilian delicacies in Cefalù.
-
Farewell Dinner in Palermo
Join a farewell dinner at Al Fresco, the 'bistro of second chances' in Palermo.
What's Not Included
-
Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, a gondola ride in Venice, and a Capri cruise are not included.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
-
Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the tour starting and ending points are not included.
-
Optional Tours in Naples
Optional tours in Naples, such as a guided walking tour of Pompeii, are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel across Italy in style with a mix of coach transfers, private boats, and a flight to Sicily, ensuring you experience the best of each destination with ease and comfort.
Accommodation
Stay in a variety of comfortable accommodations including hotels like Hotel Archimede in Rome, BB Centro in Florence, and Grand Hotel Salerno on the Amalfi Coast, ensuring a restful experience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes several meals such as an Italian feast in Rome, a Tuscan Risotto Evening in Florence, dinners in Catania and Cefalù, and a farewell dinner in Palermo. Additionally, breakfast is provided on most days.
-
Are there any optional activities available during the tour?
Yes, there are several optional activities available, including a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, a gondola ride in Venice, a Capri cruise, a guided walking tour of Pompeii, and a visit to a lemon farm on the Amalfi Coast.
-
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes various modes of transportation such as coach travel, a private boat in Venice, and a flight to Sicily. Additionally, a Cinque Terre rail pass is provided for exploring the five towns.
-
What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
Accommodation is provided in hotels throughout the tour. Examples include Hotel Archimede in Rome, BB Centro in Florence, and Hotel Villa Del Bosco in Catania. The specific hotels may vary but will be of similar standard.
-
Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included in the tour package and must be purchased separately.
-
What are some of the key highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include an orientation tour of Rome, a guided walking tour in Florence, exploring Cinque Terre with a rail pass, visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa, a private boat ride in Venice, and a tour of the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
-
Are flights included in the tour package?
No, international and domestic flights to and from the tour starting and ending points are not included in the tour package.
-
What is the age range for participants on this tour?
The tour does not specify a minimum or maximum age range for participants.
-
What kind of activities are excluded from the tour package?
Excluded activities include optional tours such as a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, a gondola ride in Venice, a Capri cruise, and a guided walking tour of Pompeii. Personal expenses, additional meals, drinks, and travel insurance are also not included.
-
What is the maximum group size for this tour?
The tour does not specify a maximum group size.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
-
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Sunday - Sunday
Apr 27, 2025 - May 18, 2025Sunday - Sunday
May 18, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Jun 11, 2025 - Jul 02, 2025Sunday - Sunday
Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 20, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Jul 09, 2025 - Jul 30, 2025Sunday - Sunday
Aug 24, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Sep 03, 2025 - Sep 24, 2025Wednesday - Wednesday
Sep 10, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions