Best of Italy - Small Group, Winter

Best of Italy - Small Group, Winter

144 Views
11 Days From

$5350

$5240

Best of Italy - Small Group, Winter

11 Days Starting and ending in Rome

Visiting: Rome, Vatican, Florence, Pisa, Venice, Umbria, Assisi, Sorrento, Capri, Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SW922ZM19

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

12 - 24

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

5-99

Special diets catered:

Please Advise Request

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Luxury

From: $5350 $5240 Operator discount: -$110

NB: Prices correct on 05-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Explore the best of Italy on this 11-day guided tour. In Rome, marvel at the treasures around every corner and learn about its three thousand years of history. As your travels continue along the Bay of Naples, stop on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius for lunch at a local farm still growing traditional produce unique to the region. In Florence, learn the secrets of leather making from a local leatherworker. Fall in love with Venice as you see churches and palaces from a private boat, and cruise its canals on a romantic gondola ride. Sail to Capri, where craggy mountains cascade into the Tyrrhenian Sea; a Local Expert will help you navigate its narrow alleys. Before you say arrivederci to Italy, enjoy one last experience: a private opera during a four-course meal that features local wine.

Highlights

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    Choice Highlights

    • Choose between two carefully selected activities
    • Florence: Take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce and immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita of Florence while you enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local cafe.
    • Florence: Stand beside Michelangelo's monumental statue, 'David', in the Accademia Gallery, and admire the exquisite technique and absorbing history behind the world's most famous sculpture.

  • content:

    Top Rated Highlights

    • Rome: Discover ancient treasures of Rome with a passionate local. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, where Ancient Roman political life and law courts mingled with open-air markets and shops.
    • Florence: See the historic neighbourhood of the Santa Croce Basilica and witness local craftspersons at work during a gold and leatherwork demonstration.
    • Florence: Enjoy a stroll through Renaissance Florence and admire the medieval buildings that gave birth to this new style of architecture.
    • Pisa: During your orientation, your Travel Director will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, and the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th-century cathedral - the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
    • Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
    • Venice: Delight in the magic of this charming city as you glide along the canals by gondola.
    • Assisi: See St. Mary of the Angels Church and join your Local Expert to walk through the cobbled streets and beautifully preserved medieval laneways of this quaint town.
    • Assisi: With a Local Expert, find out why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of Europe.
    • Capri: Cruise by jetfoil to this famous isle through beautiful blue Mediterranean waters.
    • Capri: Explore Capri town with your Local Expert and see the whitewashed houses, winding alleyways, small cafes, fashionable boutiques and artisans studios.
    • Pompeii: Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the first century.

  • content:

    Make Travel Matter

    Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft.  This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

    Vesuvius National Park: Visit Casa Barone, a small family-run farm on the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius and one of the world’s only producers of Piennolo tomatoes. Learn about their commitment to sustainability and taste the flavours of this special tomato during your Farm-to-Table lunch. Casa Barone cultivates the endangered endemic food species of Piennolo tomato as well as other traditional elements of the classic Vesuvian Countryside, using cultivation methods with low environmental impact. Through their production the farm prevents the local biodiversity from disappearing. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.

  • content:

    Authentic Dining

    Rome: Savour dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavours.

    Florence: Experience local Florentine flavours while relaxing over dinner with wine.

    Rome: Enjoy a Celebration Dinner of delicious Italian cuisine and wine, accompanied by the rich tremolo of some of Italy's best loved songs.

  • content:

    Insight Choice

    Florence: Take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce and immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita of Florence while you enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local cafe.

    Florence: Stand beside Michelangelo's monumental statue, 'David', in the Accademia Gallery, and admire the exquisite technique and absorbing history behind the world's most famous sculpture.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Welcome To The Eternal City Of Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mediterraneo, Rome

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and baroque churches. Settle in before joining your Travel Director for a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Gaze in awe at the spectacular Byzantine mosaics, illuminated for this evening's experience, and see the first sculpture by Bernini. End the day getting to know your fellow travellers over Roman specialties during dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Vatican City And Rome With A Local

Location: Rome, Vatican

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Mediterraneo, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

The day is devoted to The Eternal City. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth visit to the Vatican Museums, full of priceless art treasures collected by the Popes. Visit the Sistine Chapel, where Popes are elected, to admire Michelangelo’s famous ceiling. Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, to wonder at another of his works, the emotive ‘Pietà,’ and stand beneath the dome completed after his death. Cross the Tiber river to enjoy ancient Rome. See the incredible Circus Maximus. Admire the beautifully preserved Arch of Constantine, walking on the ancient pavement. Discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum as you stroll around the exterior of this amazing structure. Later, perhaps continue your exploration of Rome to see the Pantheon, the stunning piazzas and fountains of Rome.

Day 3: The Chianti Hills To Florence

Location: Rome, Florence

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: NH Firenze, Florence, Albani Firenze, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

Drive to the picturesque Chianti Hills and the historic city of Florence. Upon arrival, you will have the opportunity to discover the secrets of traditional Florentine leatherwork, gaining insight into the techniques that have been passed down through generations. Get up close and personal with unique pieces to appreicate the skill of local craftspersons keeping important traditions alive. Additionally, you will witness a fascinating gold demonstration, showcasing local artistry and craftsmanship. This evening, indulge in a delicious meal at a local restaurant, savouring the authentic flavours of Florentine cuisine.

Day 4: Florence, Birthplace Of The Renaissance

Location: Florence

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: NH Firenze, Florence, Albani Firenze, Florence

Meals Included: Breakfast

Explore Florence with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum and see Michelangelo’s David. After, continue on foot to admire the Multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, where Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been recreated in all their glory. Continue into the Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at statues such as Neptune and Hercules and Cacus along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. Alternatively, take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce to enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local café, where you will be in the perfect spot to admire the basilica, indulge in people-watching the elegant Florentines and pamper yourself shopping for luxury goods like gold and leather. In the afternoon, perhaps journey to view the medieval towers of San Gimignano's historic centre.

Day 5: Pisa To Venice, The Queen Of The Adriatic

Location: Florence, Pisa, Venice

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey to the coastal town of Pisa and see the famous Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles, as well as the baptistery and colonnaded bell tower behind the cathedral. Relax and enjoy the scenery as you cross the spectacular Apennine Mountains, passing through the Emilia-Romagna region, one of Europe's most intensely farmed and fertile plains. Continue through the marshes of the Venetian Lagoon before crossing the causeway into the enchanting floating city of Venice. As evening falls, day-trippers leave the city to return to the mainland, allowing you to appreciate the peace and tranquillity of Venice from your centrally located hotel. Tonight, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savouring the unique flavours of Venetian cuisine.

Day 6: Venice And The Magic Of La Serenissima Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cruise by private boat on a journey of discovery past churches and palaces reflecting the rich architectural history of Venice from the 13th to the 18th centuries. Marvel at the intricate façades and learn about the stories behind these historical buildings. Arrive close to St Mark's Square and stroll along the waterfront, passing the iconic Bridge of Sighs and the majestic Doge's Palace. It was from here that the infamous Casanova made his daring escape. Turn the corner into St Mark's Square and be captivated by the grandeur of the basilica. Afterwards, board a traditional gondola for a serenade along the romantic canals. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and witness the artistry of expert glassblowers as they create beautiful, handcrafted glass pieces, preserving centuries-old techniques and traditions.

Day 7: Assisi

Location: Venice, Umbria, Assisi

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Giotto Assisi

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey to the peaceful town of Assisi, dotted with medieval churches, colourful frescoes and shady courtyards. In the valley, see the Church of St. Mary of the Angels, much venerated as the place of St. Francis' death, then continue up Mount Subasio to the upper town. With your Local Expert, step inside the huge Basilica of St. Francis, built in the 13th century. The frescoes painted by Giotto here heralded a new era in Italian art. Arrive at your hotel, located in the heart of the medieval Old Town. Enjoy the tranquillity of the historic old town during free time. Perhaps stroll along Via San Francesco, with its quaint stone buildings that sell food, souvenirs and religious artifacts.

Day 8: Sorrento On The Coast

Location: Assisi, Sorrento

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Regina, Sorrento

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel south, passing Cassino, the site of a fierce and pivotal battle during World War II. Continue your journey along the spectacular clifftop road, offering breathtaking views, to reach the resort of the Sorrento coast. This charming area overlooks the Bay of Naples and provides stunning vistas of Mount Vesuvius. After checking in to your hotel, spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the beautiful surroundings or relaxing in the comfort of your accommodations.

Day 9: Capri, The Isle Of Dreams

Location: Sorrento, Capri, Sorrento

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel Regina, Sorrento

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cross the Bay of Naples to reach the beautiful Isle of Capri, a rock rising sheer from the Mediterranean! For 2,000 years, Capri has beckoned visitors from Emperor Tiberius to Gracie Fields. Arriving at the Marina Grande by boat, ascend to Capri town. A Local Expert joins you for an exploration of the narrow alleyways. Descend to the port by funicular railway and return to Sorrento, where you are at leisure for the rest of the day. Perhaps head to Positano for an exploration of the colourful Amalfi Coast?

Day 10: Pompeii, Frozen In Time And On To Rome

Location: Sorrento, Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Rome

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Romanico Palace, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Continue to Pompeii, the opulent Roman town that was preserved by layers of ash from the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. A walk with your Local Expert through the cobbled streets and extensive excavations reveals the daily life of ancient Roman civilisation. Visit the Forum and peer into shops and patrician villas, decorated with colourful wall paintings. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Vesuvius National Park and visit Casa Barone. This small family-run farm on the slopes of the volcano is one of the world’s only producers of Piennolo tomatoes, an endangered fruit that only thrives in the fertile volcanic soil. Each harvest is sustainably farmed and cared for by the extended Barone family, who all work here. Be sure to savour the unique flavours of this rare tomato during a truly unique Farm-to-Table lunch. Your journey continues to Rome. In the evening, enjoy an elegant four-course dinner with local wine at a Roman restaurant. As you dine, enjoy a private performance of popular songs and arias from some of Italy's best-loved operas.

Day 11: Arrivederci Roma

Location: Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid farewell to the glories of Italy, savouring the memories of its enchanting cities, historic landmarks and stunning landscapes. Italy's unique allure will linger in your heart long after you leave.

What's Included

  • Meals

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

  • Accommodation

    As detailed in the itinerary

  • Transfers

    Transfers from and to Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport are included.

  • Local Experts

    Benefit from the knowledge of local experts during your visits to various historical and cultural sites.

  • Transportation

    Cruise by private boat past historic churches and 13th-century palaces to arrive close to St Mark's Square. Also includes a jetfoil cruise to Capri.

  • MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

    Join experiences that support sustainable practices, such as visiting a traditional glassblowing workshop in Venice and Casa Barone farm in Vesuvius National Park.

What's Not Included

  • Airfare to and from the tour

    Flights before and after the tour are not included in the tour price.

    You must arrange your air travel to the tour's starting location and from the tour's ending location.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers to protect against unforeseen events.

  • Some meals

    While many meals are included as part of the tour package, some meals are not included and will be an additional cost to travelers.

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions and activities that are not listed as part of the tour itinerary may incur additional costs.

  • Personal expenses

    Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and other personal items are not included.

  • Visa Fees

    Any required visa fees are not included and are the responsibility of the traveler.

Mode of Transport

Cruise by jetfoil to the beautiful Isle of Capri, a rock rising sheer from the Mediterranean! For 2,000 years, Capri has beckoned visitors from Tiberius to Gracie Fields. Arriving at the Marina Grande by boat, ascend to Capri town. A Local Expert joins you for an exploration of the narrow alleyways. Descend to the port by funicular railway and return to Sorrento, where you are at leisure for the rest of the day. Perhaps head to Positano for an exploration of the colourful Amalfi Coast?

Accommodation

Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

Dining Summary

  • 1 Dinner (D)
  • 10 Breakfast (B)
  • 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
  • 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Insight Experiences

  • Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of experiences can I expect during the tour?

    You can expect a variety of experiences including guided shopping tours in Florence, a Welcome Dinner in Rome, priority access to the Vatican Museums, witnessing glassblowing in Venice, a Farm-to-Table lunch at Casa Barone in Vesuvius National Park, and a gondola serenade in Venice.

  • Are there any special access or behind-the-scenes experiences included?

    Yes, the tour includes special priority entry and behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase in the Vatican Museums, which is normally off-limits to visitors.

  • What kind of local expertise will be available during the tour?

    The tour includes the knowledge of local experts during visits to various historical and cultural sites, such as the Vatican Museums, the Colosseum, and the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi.

  • What are the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences included in the tour?

    The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences include visiting a traditional glassblowing workshop in Venice and Casa Barone farm in Vesuvius National Park, which supports sustainable practices.

  • What kind of meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes several meals such as Welcome Dinner with wine, dinners with wine at local restaurants, and a Farm-to-Table lunch at Casa Barone. Hotel and restaurant tips, taxes, and porterage charges at hotels are also included.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transportation includes private boat cruises past historic churches and palaces to St. Mark's Square in Venice, a jetfoil cruise to Capri, and transfers from and to Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    Accommodation is provided in various hotels as detailed in the itinerary, including Hotel Romanico Palace in Rome, NH Firenze in Florence, Splendid Venice - Starhotels Collezione in Venice, Hotel Giotto Assisi in Assisi, and Hotel Regina in Sorrento.

  • Are there any optional excursions available during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional excursions available, such as visiting medieval San Gimignano during your free time in Florence.

  • What is the group size for this tour?

    The tour is designed for a small group, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

  • What are the highlights of the tour in Venice?

    Highlights in Venice include witnessing the ancient skill of glassblowing, a gondola serenade through the canals, and visiting St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

Reviews of this operator

Peggy Lindenborn  

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02-Nov-2021

Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily is a delightful trip and our travel guides and driver, Enzo, Chris and Greg were amazing and made the trip very memorable. We saw so many places and had great experiences along the way! Thanks to them for such a wonderful vacation.!

Feefo Trusted Reviews
Trusted Customer  

Best of Spain & Portugal

11-Jan-2023

Great itinerary, good pace, tour director was friendly and very knowledgeable and organised. Bus was very spacious and driver was great. Yes would recommend insight to friends and families

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Jacqueline Thornberry  

Scenic Iceland and the Northern Lights

31-Oct-2021

The number is our group was small which meant we got to know each other. Our tour guide, Laura Spiers, was excellent as was our driver. The food was good, and of course everything we saw in Iceland was beautiful and educational.

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Kathryn Ronca  

Enchanting Canyonlands

08-Nov-2021

The trip was fantastic. Everything was well planned and exceeded my expectations. All insight personal were courteous helpful and professional Ann Manual and Kevin were a topnotch team There was attention to every detail and at all times felt safe and always a personal touch to the trip. The motor coach was clean and roomy and there was multiple wipe downs during the day All hotels were top notch and all staff at the hotels and restaurants were helpful and courteous I would recommend this trip as it gave you a fantastic view of the natural wonders of the the West.

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Patrick Ong  

Italian Intermezzo

12-Jan-2023

This trip is absolutely amazing! Worth every Penny! Our Tour guide did not Disappoint.

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1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Sunday

Mar 13, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$5350 $5240

Operator discount: -$110

Thursday - Sunday

Nov 13, 2025 - Nov 23, 2025
$6350 $6240

Operator discount: -$110

Thursday - Sunday

Mar 12, 2026 - Mar 22, 2026
$6425 $6315

Operator discount: -$110

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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