Italy Explorer

Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! This morning, meet your tour leader at the hotel before heading into the city. Explore iconic sites showcasing Rome's rich history, from ancient Roman architecture to Renaissance masterpieces. Tonight, taste authentic Italian cuisine during an included welcome dinner at a local restaurant with the tour group. Afterward, join a guided walking tour led by a local expert to delve deeper into Rome's fascinating past and cultural heritage.

• Discover Rome on a guided walking tour

• Enjoy a welcome dinner in Rome

Leave the capital behind and drive through the picturesque Umbria region to the captivating hilltop town of Orvieto. Perched atop a sheer volcanic rock, take a funicular to the top to enjoy free time exploring this quaint city's historic centre. Discover landmarks like the 14th-century Cathedral, Papal Residence, and Albornoz Fortress. Later, travel on to Venice! Enjoy a free evening and unwind at the hotel or opt for a twilight water taxi cruise along the enchanting canals to witness Venice's twinkling lights.

• Take a funicular ride to historic Orvieto

Enjoy a full day in Venice to experience the magic of this floating city as you wish! The quintessential experience of a gondola ride is highly recommended and can be easily arranged by your tour leader. Venture out to Murano and Burano on an optional excursion if you wish to explore the lagoon further. These islands are renowned for their glass-blowing and lace-making crafts, as well as their picturesque multicoloured houses. Alternatively, on a sunny day, unwind on the sandy beaches of Jesolo or Lido. The choice is yours!

• Experience the magic of Venice

Embark on a journey to Florence and the stunning region of Tuscany today with a stop at the breathtaking Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake. Witness the destination that has inspired artists of all persuasions for centuries before continuing to Florence. Upon arrival in Florence, join a local guide and explore the city's iconic sights and landmarks. Marvel at the Renaissance artwork and Roman remnants that adorn the city, reflecting its cultural and political significance during that era. Next, visit Leonardo Leather for a leather-making demonstration. End the day off with an included dinner at a local restaurant.

• Stop at Lake Garda; Italy’s biggest lake

• Explore Florence; the ‘Jewel of the Renaissance’

• Learn about the craft of Italian leather-making

• Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Florence

This morning, drive north to La Spezia in the Liguria region. This is the gateway to Cinque Terre, a cluster of five charming fishing villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Adorned with colourful houses, these villages are connected by scenic hiking trails and a railway, offering car-free exploration and enhancing the experience of their quaint charm. Later today, return to Tuscany, making a stop en route to admire the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. A must-see attraction in Italy, seize this opportunity to capture memorable photos of this historic landmark and explore its surrounding cathedral and baptistery grounds.

• Explore the colourful villages of Cinque Terre

• See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa

Today, journey through the serene countryside of Tuscany, where rolling hills are decorated with Tuscan farmhouses, vineyards, and olive groves. The first stop is the enchanting walled town of San Gimignano, known as the 'Town of Fine Towers' which is home to remarkable Romanesque and Gothic architecture, along with 14 impeccably-preserved medieval tower houses. Next, continue to Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for the thrilling Palio horse race. Savour the flavours of local Italian wines before heading back to Rome, where the day concludes with an included dinner.

• Visit the gorgeous hill town of San Gimignano

• Discover Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Explore Rome at your own pace today, soaking in the essence of this historic city. Wander the streets, treat yourself to a day of shopping, and sample an array of local delicacies. Consider opting for an excursion to the ancient Colosseum and Roman Forum, led by a knowledgeable local guide who will immerse you in the world of gladiators. Alternatively, venture to Vatican City on your own, the world's smallest country and the seat of the Pope. Explore the Vatican museums, marvel at artistic masterpieces, and behold Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Whether you choose to delve into Rome's ancient history or explore the Vatican's treasures, this free day promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories in the "Eternal City".

Leaving Rome, the tour heads to the breathtaking Amalfi Coast region, with captivating stops along the way. Pause to behold the majestic Mount Vesuvius and delve into the ancient ruins of Pompeii, frozen in time since the catastrophic eruption of 79 AD. Experience a captivating guided tour, offering fascinating insights into life during the Roman Empire, before indulging in an included lunch. As the afternoon unfolds, settle into your accommodation for a two-night stay in the enchanting Amalfi Coast. Tonight, join the Evening in Amalfi optional excursion to explore this charming town and taste the region’s delicious cuisine. Be sure to raise a toast with the region's famous limoncello liqueur, marking the end of an exciting day.

• See Mount Vesuvius and explore the ruins of Pompeii

Make the most out of a free day in the Amalfi Coast today! Bask in the beauty of its stunning coastline, whether lounging on the sun-drenched beaches or wandering through the charming and vibrant nearby towns. Alternatively, join the optional excursion to the renowned Isle of Capri, where an orientation tour awaits. Explore its rugged coastline, ancient Roman ruins, and chic piazzas at your leisure. Don't miss the highlight of the day trip — a cruise around the island, offering mesmerising views of its crystal-clear waters and enchanting grottos. Embrace the day's adventures, soaking in the essence of this idyllic coastal paradise!

Today's journey takes you southeast to explore the enchanting southern Italian region of Apulia, with a stop along the way in the ancient cave city of Matera. Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Subterranean City), Matera is famed for its extensive cave-dwelling districts known as the 'Sassi'. Admire this unique UNESCO World Heritage site before continuing your adventure to Alberobello. Here, enjoy a walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide, discovering the region's iconic 'Trulli' houses. These charming 14th-century whitewashed stone huts, with their distinctive conical roofs, are specific to the Itria Valley. This evening, enjoy free time to further explore Alberobello, with visits to the Trullo Church of St. Anthony and the captivating Trulli Museum as options.

• Visit Matera; an ancient cave city

• Explore Alberobello; famous for its conical houses

This morning, take a coastal drive along the Ionian Sea before leaving the mainland. Then, a brief ferry ride will transport you to the captivating island of Sicily, home to the majestic Mount Etna. Prepare to be mesmerised by breathtaking vistas as you journey toward Taormina. Upon arrival, set off on an orientation walk of this picturesque hilltop town with your tour leader. Gain insights into the town’s rich history and take note of top attractions to explore further on the upcoming free day, like the historic Porta Catania and the tranquil Villa Comunale. This evening, indulge in your first taste of Sicilian cuisine with an included dinner at the beachside hotel.

• Catch a scenic ferry from mainland Italy to Sicily

• Discover Taormina; a hilltop town in Sicily

• Enjoy dinner at a beachside hotel in Taormina

Today offers a blissful free day to unwind on the stunning beaches of Sicily or explore the island's charming towns. Taormina is a popular summer destination known for its medieval churches, castle, and Greek amphitheatre. Two optional excursions are also available. Ascend the majestic Mount Etna by funicular, Europe's tallest and most active volcano, and explore the volcanic landscape. Then, enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local wine and produce grown in volcanic soil at a nearby Enoteca. Why not end the day on a high note with a sunset swim back in Taormina?

Journey through the heart of Sicily, stopping to explore the enchanting city of Syracuse. Founded by a Greek colony in 734 BC, Syracuse boasts a UNESCO-listed historical centre and beautiful Baroque buildings. This afternoon, prepare to be awestruck by the "Valle dei Templi" (Valley of the Temples) during a guided tour. This archaeological wonder ranks among the world's most outstanding examples of Magna Graecia art and architecture. Afterward, settle into tonight's accommodation in Agrigento.

• Visit Syracuse; a historic Sicilian city

• Explore the Valley of the Temples

Enjoy a scenic drive through central Sicily to the charming town of Cefalù. Upon arrival, set off on an orientation tour, followed by free time for lunch. With some of Italy's finest beaches at your fingertips, seize the opportunity to indulge in a seaside meal, soaking in the coastal ambiance. In the early afternoon, journey onwards to Palermo, where a captivating walking tour awaits to unveil the city's highlights. Founded over 2,700 years ago by the Phoenicians, Palermo enchants visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, architectural splendours, and delectable cuisine. Explore top sights such as Piazza Indipendenza, Porta Nuova (The New Gate), and the majestic Cathedral of Palermo, immersing yourself in the timeless allure of this ancient city.

• Visit Cefalù; home to Italy’s finest beaches

• See the sights on a walking tour of Palermo

Take advantage of this free day to delve deeper into the wonders of Sicily's capital, Palermo. With a history shaped by various rulers, including the Greeks, Romans, and Normans, Palermo is a captivating melting pot of cultures and architectural styles. Explore its ancient relics, immerse yourself in Italian history, and savour its rich culture, and delectable cuisine. Revisit yesterday's tour highlights, wander through the historic old town, and peruse art galleries showcasing local talent. Alternatively, opt for today's optional excursion to explore some of the lesser-known architectural highlights of this captivating city. This evening, the group will take an overnight ferry journey back to the Italian mainland.

This afternoon, the ferry docks in Naples, where the journey continues by coach back to Rome. As the coach arrives in Rome this afternoon, it marks the end of the 16-day Italian adventure, filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. Please note that the ferry times may differ throughout the year and take this into account when booking your outbound flight. With hearts full of gratitude and fond farewells, the tour comes to an end.Arrivederci!