Best of Italy

DAY 1: ROME > ASSISI > SIENA > FLORENCE

Departure around 7:30 am for Assisi, a tiny town in Umbria surrounded by walls built in the Middle Ages, famous for the Basilica of St. Francis. After exploring Assisi at your own pace, board the bus for Siena, a Medieval town known for its Palio horse race around the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. Continue on to Florence, where you will check in to your hotel before dinner. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Raffaello, Florence, or similar

DAY 2: FLORENCE

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing drive to Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Visit the Duomo, Giotto’s bell tower, and the Baptistery with its famous bronze doors. Admire Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and Santa Croce before spending an afternoon of leisure in Florence or opting for an excursion to Pisa for a tour of the Square of Miracles, home to the famed Leaning Tower. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel Raffaello, Florence, or similar

DAY 3: FLORENCE > BOLOGNA > VENICE

After a delightful breakfast in Florence, depart for elegant Bologna. Upon arrival, explore the charming city center with its iconic porticos. Start your walking tour at Piazza Malpighi, leading to Piazza del Nettuno and Piazza Maggiore. Marvel at the historic Palazzo Podestà and the Basilica of San Petronio, the world’s largest Gothic brick church.

Discover why Bologna is hailed as Italy’s gastronomic capital with a street food experience, exploring medieval streets lined with food stalls and markets offering traditional and contemporary treats. Enjoy a light lunch at a local eatery, sampling authentic flavors that define Bologna’s culinary identity. In the afternoon, continue the journey to Venice (Mestre). Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel Delfino Mestre, Venice, or similar

DAY 4: VENICE

After breakfast, jump aboard a water taxi to the famous St. Mark’s Square, where you will visit the Doge’s Palace (exterior only), a symbol of the glory and authority of Venice. Nearby, see the legendary Bridge of Sighs before tasting a Venetian spritz or a prosecco with the company of your tour leader.

As you relax in comfort and savor your drink, you’ll also have the chance to indulge in the renowned “cicchetti,” a Venetian take on tapas, offering a delightful light lunch option. Enjoy the afternoon at your own pace, strolling along Venice’s enchanting canals, before returning to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Your Tour Leader will provide you with all the essential information for your return journey to the hotel in Mestre, by water taxi and local bus services. Please note that tickets for public transportation are not included. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel Delfino Mestre, Venice, or similar

DAY 5: VENICE > TUSCANY WINE REGION (MONTEPULCIANO) > ROME

After breakfast, depart for Tuscany, known for its romantic churches, castles, and wine. Proceed to Val di Chiana with a stop in Montepulciano, a medieval town known for its “Nobile” wine and the annual jazz festival. Enjoy an included lunch at a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon independently exploring Montepulciano before continuing to Rome. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar

DAY 6: ROME

After breakfast, depart for a morning tour of the Vatican Museums, Raphael’s Rooms, and the Sistine Chapel with our exclusive “Skip the Line” access! Then pass through an exclusive entrance to St. Peter’s Basilica, the biggest church in the world. After, enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Rome on your own or opt for an Ancient Rome tour. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar

DAY 7: ROME AT LEISURE

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, seize the opportunity to explore Rome at your own pace or opt for one of our guided tours in the city or its picturesque surroundings. Later, return to the hotel for your final night in Rome. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel St. Martin, Rome, or similar

DAY 8: ROME > POMPEII > SORRENTO

After breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel at approximately 7:00 am. Depart by coach, heading south through the regions of Lazio and Campania.

Upon arriving in Pompeii, enjoy an authentic Neapolitan pizza lunch. Afterward, you’ll visit one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world: Pompeii, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With Skip the Line access and a guided tour, you’ll explore the haunting ruins of Pompeii, stepping back to 79 AD when Mount Vesuvius erupted, burying the once-thriving Roman city under volcanic ash and gases.

After the visit, you will drive along the scenic Sorrentine Coast, arriving in Sorrento for dinner (dress code: jacket and long trousers are recommended for men) and an overnight stay at your hotel. Meals: B, L, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Michelangelo, Sorrento, or similar

DAY 9: SORRENTO > CAPRI > SORRENTO

After breakfast, get ready for an exciting excursion to the island of Capri. One of the most exclusive summer destinations in the Mediterranean! Depending on the weather and sea conditions, you will admire the dreamy Blue Grotto on a small rowboat. Afterward, enjoy roaming the island at your own pace. Once back on the mainland, return back to your hotel in Sorrento. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Michelangelo, Sorrento, or similar

DAY 10: SORRENTO > PALERMO

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring Sorrento. In the afternoon, you will transfer to the port of Naples, where you will board the ferry to Palermo. Let the waves rock you to sleep. Dinner and breakfast are not included on the overnight ferry. Meals: B

Accommodation on an Overnight Ferry from Naples to Palermo

DAY 11: PALERMO ARRIVAL

Arrive in Palermo and transfer to your hotel. That night, have dinner and rest up for your Sicilian adventure. Meals: D

Accommodation at the Hotel Mercure, Palermo, or similar

DAY 12: PALERMO & MONREALE

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, and then head out on a morning excursion to Monreale, recently included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, an ancient royal town famous for its almonds, olive oil, and citrus fruits, as well as for its fine Norman architecture. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Monreale and then enjoy some shopping for local delicatessen and souvenirs.

Back to Palermo and continue with a walking tour of the city. Wander the streets of the Old Town, hear tales of Palermo’s 3,000-year history, and discover attractions like Palermo Cathedral. Walk inside the impressive-looking place of worship and marvel at its arches, cupolas, and mosaics – with an incredible mix of influences coming from several dominations on the island. Enjoy free time in the late afternoon and return to your hotel for dinner. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Mercure, Palermo, or similar

DAY 13: PALERMO > ERICE > MARSALA > AGRIGENTO

Start your day with an early breakfast before departing for Erice, a charming medieval village perched on Monte San Giuliano. Its narrow, winding streets have remained virtually unchanged since the sixth century, making it a perfect place for a serene morning stroll.

Next, journey to Marsala, renowned for its famous Marsala wine. Indulge in a sensory experience with a visit to a traditional tavern, where you’ll sample regional delicacies during a light but unforgettable lunch.

After lunch, board your coach and continue to Agrigento, where you’ll explore the stunning Valley of the Temples (entrance included), a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at the Ancient Greek monuments, including the well-preserved Temple of Concord, the Temple of Hercules, and the grand Temple of Jupiter, one of the largest Doric-style structures ever built. In the evening, check in to your hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. Meals: B, L, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Della Valle, Agrigento, or similar

DAY 14: AGRIGENTO > RAGUSA

Embark on a captivating day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel before setting off for Ragusa. The historical center of “Ibla” awaits, adorned with its awe-inspiring baroque palaces and churches. Ragusa’s inclusion among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, alongside seven other Val di Noto cities, speaks to its profound cultural significance.

Explore the ancient charm of the old gate of San Giorgio and the serene Giardini Iblei. A leisurely stroll leads to Piazza Pola, where the hidden gem, the church of San Giuseppe, awaits your discovery. Allow yourself to be entranced by the grace of the Cathedral of San Giorgio, the poignant Church of the Souls in Purgatory, and the grandeur of the Cosentini palace – a pinnacle of Late Baroque architecture in Sicily.

Returning to the hotel, savor a delectable dinner, concluding the day’s adventures. Rest easy, knowing you’ve experienced the very essence of Ragusa’s historical and cultural tapestry. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Poggio del Sole Hotel, Ragusa, or similar

DAY 15: RAGUSA > NOTO > SYRACUSE > TAORMINA

Indulge in a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic journey to Noto, a charming fishing town renowned for its magnificent Baroque architecture. Explore the recently restored Cathedral of San Nicolò, which stands as a testament to the town’s resilience after an earthquake. Take a leisurely stroll through the heart of the town, soaking in its picturesque atmosphere.

Continue your journey along the enchanting south coast, heading towards Syracuse, nestled on the southeastern tip of Sicily. Upon arrival, cross one of the city’s iconic bridges to reach the captivating island of Ortygia, the ancient nucleus of Syracuse. Here, you’ll encounter a treasure trove of Baroque churches and medieval palaces, each steeped in history and architectural splendor.

As the day draws to a close, make your way to Taormina, where you’ll be welcomed at your centrally located hotel. Settle in and savor a delectable dinner, embracing the essence of this enchanting destination. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Hotel Splendid, Taormina, or similar

DAY 16: TAORMINA & MOUNT ETNA

After breakfast, head off to Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Europe and the highest mountain in Italy. Learn about volcanic activity and marvel at the old lava fields and black magma rock that comprises Etna’s landscape. If weather permits, you have a chance to climb to the summit (1800 m). After, return to Taormina, the beautiful and romantic town located on Mount Tauro. Return to Taormina in the afternoon and spend the rest of your day at leisure. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Splendid, Taormina, or similar

DAY 17: TAORMINA DEPARTURE

Enjoy one final breakfast before the tour comes to an end. Optional private transfer to Catania airport is available upon request. Meals: B