Grand Italy & Sicily - Classic Group
Grand Italy & Sicily - Classic Group
Grand Italy & Sicily - Classic Group
17 Days Starting in Rome, Italy and ending in Palermo, Italy
Visiting: Rome, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Lake Maggiore, Venice, Florence, Pompeii, Capri, Matera, Alberobello, Taormina, Palermo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E921ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Italy and Sicily with the "Grand Italy & Sicily - Classic Group" tour. This cultural adventure begins in the Eternal City of Rome, where you'll explore ancient treasures and savor authentic Roman cuisine. Discover the iconic Leaning Tower in Pisa, the colorful villages of Cinque Terre, and the serene beauty of Lake Maggiore. In Venice, glide through romantic canals and witness the art of glassblowing. Experience the Renaissance splendor of Florence, the preserved ruins of Pompeii, and the stunning Isle of Capri. Journey through the unique landscapes of Matera and Alberobello, and cross to Sicily to explore Taormina and the vibrant city of Palermo. With expert guides, authentic dining experiences, and a focus on sustainable travel, this tour offers a rich tapestry of Italy's history, culture, and natural beauty.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Hotel St. Martin, Rome.
Accommodation Name: Hotel St. Martin, Rome
Meals Included: Dinner
2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. 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. End the day getting to know your fellow travelers over Roman specialties during dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Vatican City And Rome With A Local
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Hotel St. Martin, Rome.
Accommodation Name: Hotel St. Martin, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth experience bringing millennia of history to life. Journey from the Vatican City across the Tiber river to ancient Rome. See the incredible Circus Maximus. Admire the beautifully preserved Arch of Constantine and discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum on a guided visit. As you stroll with your Local Expert, imagine the gladiatorial battles and roaring spectators around the arena. Later, perhaps continue your exploration of Rome to see the Pantheon and the stunning piazzas and fountains of Rome.
Day 3: Pisa And Santa Margherita Ligure
Location: Pisa
Accommodation: Best Western Regina Elena, Santa Margherita Ligure.
Accommodation Name: Best Western Regina Elena, Santa Margherita Ligure
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a delightful drive to Pisa through rolling countryside dotted with cypress trees, passing vineyards and olive groves. With a Local Expert, view the incredible Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles from which Galileo is said to have conducted experiments on velocity and gravity. See the splendid cathedral and baptistery, decorated with mosaics and designs in solid marble. Your journey continues to the pretty seaside resort of Santa Margherita Ligure.
Day 4: The Charms Of The Cinque Terre
Location: Cinque Terre
Accommodation: Best Western Regina Elena, Santa Margherita Ligure.
Accommodation Name: Best Western Regina Elena, Santa Margherita Ligure
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head to the famous Cinque Terre, which translates to Five Lands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on a gorgeously wild yet hospitable part of the coastline. With a Local Expert, approach one of the fishing villages by boat (weather permitting). In Monterosso, spend some time exploring the medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach before continuing to the village of Portofino, famed for its colorful houses. Browse the boutiques and stay a while in the cafe bars on the piazzetta, watching the yachts moored in the harbor. Then cruise along the rugged Ligurian coast to your hotel in the resort of Santa Margherita.
Day 5: Lake Maggiore Relaxed Start
Location: Lake Maggiore
Accommodation: Hotel Simplon, Baveno.
Accommodation Name: Simplon, Baveno
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head north to beautiful Lake Maggiore in the Italian Lakes District and the town of Baveno, noted for its narrow cobbled streets and charming square. On arrival, settle into your hotel and take in the magical scenery. In the afternoon, why not join an Optional Experience cruise to Isola Bella to explore the palace and admire the stunning and immaculate Italian style gardens.
Day 6: On To Venice Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Accommodation: NH Venezia Rio Novo.
Accommodation Name: Indigo - Sant'Elena, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your travels continue past the Soave vineyards, the City of Padua and on to the canals of Venice. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner with your traveling companions.
Day 7: Venice And The Magic Of La Serenissima Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Accommodation: NH Venezia Rio Novo.
Accommodation Name: Indigo - Sant'Elena, Venice
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 8: A Scenic Journey To Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to Venice and begin your journey to Renaissance Florence. Explore Florence with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum and see Michelangelo’s David. After, continue on foot to admire the multi-colored 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, 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 caffè, 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. Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with delicious local wine, a specialty not to be missed.
Day 9: Florence, Birthplace Of The Renaissance Relaxed Start
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli.
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with a traditional Florentine leather-work demonstration, then there is plenty of time to shop with the rest of the day at your leisure. Perhaps join an optional experience to explore the hilltop town of San Gimignano?
Day 10: Ill-Fated Pompeii And On To Sorrento
Location: Pompeii
Accommodation: Hotel Isabella, Sorrento.
Accommodation Name: Isabella, Sorrento
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey south through the volcanic hills of Frascati to Pompeii, which was buried in A.D. 79 by Mount Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption. Walk with a Local Expert through the preserved cobbled streets for a glimpse into the daily life of civilization during the Roman Empire. Follow the clifftop road to the resort town of Sorrento, overlooking the Bay of Naples.
Day 11: Capri, The Isle Of Dreams
Location: Capri
Accommodation: Hotel Isabella, Sorrento.
Accommodation Name: Isabella, Sorrento
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet your Local Expert and 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 Tiberius Caesar to Gracie Fields. Arriving at the Marina Grande by boat, ascend to Capri town. Explore the narrow alleyways and descend to the port by funicular railway for the return to Sorrento. Later, perhaps explore the Amalfi Coast?
Day 12: Sassi Di Matera And Alberobello
Location: Matera
Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello.
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, discover two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, visit Matera for an in-depth guided exploration of the extraordinary Sassi, ancient troglodyte dwellings and churches dug out of the rock. These are the most extensive example of their kind in the Mediterranean and were inhabited by about 20,000 people up until the 1950s. Matera was also used as the setting for the film 'The Passion of the Christ'. Continue to Alberobello, the second UNESCO World Heritage Site, and your home for the next two nights.
Day 13: The Trulli Of Alberobello Relaxed Start
Location: Alberobello
Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello.
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Meals Included: Breakfast
Admire another of Italy's record number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a Local Expert. The trulli of Alberobello are circular structures with conical roofs that are domed within. They are built from local limestone and stacked without using mortar. In the evening, delight at the freshly prepared Farm to Table dinner. Enjoy a typical meal and learn about life in the region through the local food.
Day 14: Sicily And The Taormina Riviera
Location: Taormina
Accommodation: RG Naxos Hotel, Taormina.
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Meals Included: Breakfast
The local roads will take you south, following the shores of the Gulf of Taranto to the mountainous Calabria region. Travel along the Purple Coast to the very 'toe' of Italy and board your ferry bound for Sicily. According to ancient legend, it was here at the Straits of Messina where the twin whirlpools of Scylla and Charybdis carried unwary seafarers away to their doom! After disembarking, continue to the Taormina Riviera.
Day 15: Taormina And The Dawn Coast Of Europe Relaxed Start
Location: Taormina
Accommodation: RG Naxos Hotel, Taormina.
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend the day at leisure to enjoy at your own pace. Perhaps join an optional experience to Mt. Etna?
Day 16: Palermo, Capital Of Sicily
Location: Palermo
Accommodation: NH Palermo.
Accommodation Name: Astoria Palace, Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head to the Sicilian capital of Palermo. On arrival, your Local Expert will show you the highlights of the capital. Palermo Cathedral has been altered over the years and a venture inside will help you to appreciate the composite architectural styles. Next, head to the amazing Palatine Chapel in the Palace of the Normans. With the outside completely covered in glittering ancient mosaics, it provides an insight to what's within. Join your traveling companions and Travel Director at a local restaurant for an unforgettable dinner of delicious local cuisine and wine.
Day 17: Depart Palermo
Location: Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey draws to an end. Departure transfers arrive at Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport.
What's Included
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Choice Highlights
Choose between two carefully selected activities in Florence, including standing beside Michelangelo's monumental statue, 'David', in the Accademia Gallery, or taking a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce.
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Top Rated Highlights
Experience top-rated highlights such as discovering ancient treasures of Rome, visiting the Leaning Tower in Pisa, exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre, and cruising to St. Mark's Square in Venice.
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Make Travel Matter
Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing in Venice, supporting the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft.
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Authentic Dining
Enjoy authentic dining experiences including a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner in Florence and a Farm-to-Table meal in Alberobello.
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Dining Summary
The tour includes 1 Dinner, 16 Breakfasts, and 7 Dinners with Wine.
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Additional Included Highlights
Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes and porterage charges, and complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi are included.
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Insight Experiences
Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome during an after-hours visit.
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Well-being
Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a cruise to Isola Bella and exploring the Amalfi Coast are not included in the tour package.
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Transfers Outside Scheduled Times
Transfers are only available at scheduled times.
If your flights are outside these times, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Dining Summary
- 1 Dinner (D)
- 16 Breakfast (B)
- 7 Dinner with Wine (DW)
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.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style and comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach featuring double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Enjoy private boat cruises in Venice and ferry rides to Sicily, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable journey across Italy.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and elegance at various accommodations throughout Italy, including Hotel St. Martin in Rome, Best Western Regina Elena in Santa Margherita Ligure, and Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli. Enjoy the charm of Simplon in Baveno, Indigo - Sant'Elena in Venice, and Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA in Taormina.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experience does the tour offer in Venice?
In Venice, the tour offers a unique experience where you can witness the ancient skill of glassblowing. Visitors can watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices, supporting the survival of this traditional craft.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Vatican City and Rome?
During the visit to Vatican City and Rome, you will join a Local Expert for an in-depth experience that brings millennia of history to life. You will see the Circus Maximus, the Arch of Constantine, and have a guided visit to the Colosseum, imagining the gladiatorial battles and roaring spectators.
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What is special about the visit to the Cinque Terre?
The visit to the Cinque Terre includes a guided exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will approach one of the fishing villages by boat, weather permitting, and have time to explore the medieval quarter or the sandy beach in Monterosso.
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How does the tour incorporate local dining experiences?
The tour incorporates local dining experiences by offering meals that highlight regional specialties. For example, in Rome, you will savor dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, and in Florence, enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with local wine.
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What historical insights are provided during the visit to Pompeii?
During the visit to Pompeii, you will walk with a Local Expert through the preserved cobbled streets, gaining insights into the daily life of civilization during the Roman Empire, as the town was frozen in time since the first century.
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What can I expect from the visit to the Trulli of Alberobello?
In Alberobello, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Trulli, which are circular structures with conical roofs built from local limestone without using mortar. A Local Expert will guide you through this unique architectural site.
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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.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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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.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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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.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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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.
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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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Terms and Conditions