Italian Symphony: Milan's Elegance to Rome's Majesty

DAY 1: MILAN ARRIVAL

Upon arrival in Milan, check-in at the hotel is scheduled to begin at 4:00 pm. Following check-in, you will have the opportunity to meet with your guide for a presentation of the tour. Optional airport or train station transfers can be arranged upon request. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure.

Accommodation at the Hotel Rubens, Milan, or similar

DAY 2: MILAN > PORTOFINO > SANTA MARGHERITA LIGURE > RAPALLO > LA SPEZIA

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel. Today's itinerary involves exploring the Tigullio Gulf and its key attractions. Your day will include visits to Portofino, renowned for its elegant harmony and colorful buildings overlooking the sea, as well as Santa Margherita Ligure, a town celebrated for its pastel-colored facades and charming alleys.

In the afternoon, return to Rapallo by boat, where you can immerse yourself in the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Situated at the heart of the Gulf of Tigullio, Rapallo boasts numerous testimonies, documents, and signs of the past. After the visit, you will be transferred to the hotel in La Spezia or its surroundings. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy free time. Meals: B

Accommodation at the CDH Hotel La Spezia, La Spezia, or similar

DAY 3: LA SPEZIA > CINQUE TERRE > LA SPEZIA

Breakfast will be served at the hotel, followed by our departure to Cinque Terre, either by boat or train, depending on the weather conditions.

Our first destination is Manarola, a genuine urban gem boasting a charming harbor and a handful of houses adorned in pastel shades. Next, we will explore Vernazza, renowned as one of Italy's most picturesque towns, where a rich seafaring tradition endures within its naturally amphitheater-shaped harbor that gracefully extends into the sea.

Our final stop is Monterosso, the westernmost and most populous of the Cinque Terre. Positioned at the heart of a small natural gulf, Monterosso seamlessly blends its historic old town with a more modern and tourist-centric section.

In the afternoon, we will return to the hotel, concluding our enchanting exploration of the Cinque Terre. Meals: B

Accommodation at the CDH Hotel La Spezia, La Spezia, or similar

DAY 4: LA SPEZIA > PISA > SAN GIMIGNANO > FLORENCE

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a journey to Pisa, renowned worldwide for its iconic Leaning Tower. Enjoy leisure time in the captivating Piazza dei Miracoli, surrounded by architectural marvels such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Duomo, the Baptistery, and the Monumental Cemetery—all showcasing their splendor.

Following the Pisa visit, continue your adventure to San Gimignano, a charming medieval town celebrated for its impressive medieval towers. Take a leisurely stroll along the cobblestone streets, soaking in the unique atmosphere of this picturesque town. Lunch will be served during the excursion.

As the day unfolds, arrive in Florence in the afternoon, poised to explore the city in the upcoming days of our journey. Rest and unwind at the hotel overnight. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel Grifone, Florence, or similar

DAY 5: FLORENCE

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel followed by a guided walking tour of the historic center, led by a local guide. This itinerary is designed for those eager to unravel the events and secrets of over 2000 years of Florentine history, from its Roman origins to the fifteenth century.

Explore iconic landmarks such as the Old Bridge, the courtyard of the Uffizi Gallery, and the magnificent architecture of Brunelleschi's dome, which presides over the Baptistery. Gain insights into Florence's pivotal role in the history of architecture and art.

The afternoon offers free time for individual activities, or consider booking a guided excursion to the Uffizi or the Accademia Galleries. Rest for the night at the hotel. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Grifone, Florence, or similar

DAY 6: FLORENCE > ASSISI > ROME

Commence your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before setting out for Assisi, a city steeped in mysticism and renowned for its spiritual and religious heritage. Notably, Assisi is celebrated as the birthplace of St. Francis, a pivotal figure in religious history.

Embark on a guided tour through the enchanting streets of Assisi, marveling at its medieval architecture and immersing yourself in the sacred sites associated with St. Francis and St. Clare.

The journey continues to Rome, often referred to as the "Eternal City." Rome, with all its allure, awaits our arrival, ready to be explored in detail in the upcoming days of our trip. Rest overnight at the hotel. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Bettoja Hotels, Rome, or similar

DAY 7: ROME

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. Our exploration of the Italian capital kicks off as we embark on a panoramic tour in our coach, taking in the city's key landmarks. Marvel at the grandeur of the Colosseum (exterior), the historical significance of the Roman Forum, and the imposing presence of Piazza Venezia.

As we disembark, our expert guide will lead us on a captivating walk through the historic center of Rome. Explore iconic sites such as the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona with its central fountain, the Fontana dei Quattro Fiumi—a masterpiece by the renowned sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini.

The afternoon offers free time for individual activities or you can choose to book a guided excursion to the Colosseum or the Vatican Museums. Rest for the night at the hotel. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Bettoja Hotels, Rome, or similar

DAY 8: ROME DEPARTURE

Indulge in a morning breakfast at the hotel before checking out. For added convenience, consider the optional private transfer to the airport or train station. Arrivederci! Meals: B