From Top to Toe of Italy: Venice to Sicily

Embark on an 11-night Italian odyssey with stays in Venice, Florence, Rome, Sorrento, Reggio Calabria, and Taormina

Indulge in an 11-night Italian escapade, staying in 4-star hotels across Venice, Florence, Rome, Sorrento, Reggio Calabria, and the enchanting Taormina. Glide through Venice’s romantic canals on a shared gondola ride, delve into the Renaissance heart of Florence, and walk in the footsteps of gladiators in Rome. Savor the ancient wonders of Pompeii before basking in the sun-soaked allure of Capri and the mesmerizing Blue Grotto. Experience the thrill of high-speed train travel, seamless transfers, and ferry rides, culminating in the breathtaking beauty of Sicily’s coastal gem, Taormina

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12 Days from $4199/person CAD

Currency:

Family

Off The Beaten Path

Rail & Train

Self-Guided

Small Group

UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Primary Location

Italy, Europe

Departures

Available from April to October

Included:

11 nights accommodation with daily breakfast in 4-star hotels (2 nights in Venice, 2 nights in Florence, 2 nights in Rome, 2 nights in Sorrento, 1 night in Reggio Calabria, 2 nights in Taormina)
Arrival transfer by shared shuttle boat in Venice (from Venice Marco Polo Airport or Venice Santa Lucia Station to set stops in Venice city center)
30-minute shared gondola ride
2nd class high-speed train ticket from Venice to Florence
Half-day guided group tour of Florence
2nd class high-speed train ticket from Florence to Rome
Half-day guided small-group tour of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum
2nd class high-speed train ticket from Rome to Naples
Private one-way transfer from Naples Station to Sorrento with a 2-hour stop in Pompeii
Entrance tickets to the Pompeii Archaeological Area
Group excursion to Capri Island from Sorrento, including a visit to the Blue Grotto (weather permitting)
Private one-way transfer from Sorrento to Naples Station
2nd class high-speed train ticket from Naples to Reggio Calabria
One-way public ferry ticket from Reggio Calabria port to Messina port
Private one-way transfer from Messina port to your hotel in Taormina/Giardini Naxos

Not Included:

Unless otherwise specified, transportation to the designated meeting point and back to your hotel for guided tours is not included
Transfers to and from the train stations are not included unless otherwise specified in the itinerary and inclusions
International or domestic airfare
Gratuities to guides and drivers
Travel insurance
Additional meals when not mentioned on the itinerary
Entrance fees to monuments or museums when not mentioned on the itinerary
Local city tax for overnight stays
Visas required for entry into the country as necessary
Anything of a personal nature or that is not mentioned in included

Pricing Details

Click Book Online for pricing!

The itinerary is subject to change based on the availability of tours. In the event that a particular service is not available, an alternative option will be provided
Additional charges may apply during fairs, holidays, and special events
From price is CAD per person, based on double occupancy
The final price will vary and is also based on the month of travel
Prices are subject to change

Optional Extras:

Upgrade your train tickets to first class for added comfort
An option to add a guide during your visit to Pompeii is available upon request
Enhance your trip with additional options and upgrades available in Italy. You have the flexibility to customize your experience by adding extra nights, opting for the convenience of private airport or train station transfers, selecting from a variety of additional shared, small-group, or private activities, and upgrading your accommodation to perfectly suit your preferences

Custom Itinerary

Choose between booking the pre-designed itinerary or opt for a custom trip crafted to your preferences, budget, interests, and dates. Our travel specialists are skilled at creating a stress-free experience with any special requests you may have.

Itinerary

DAY 1: VENICE ARRIVAL

Upon arrival in Venice (at the airport or rail station), take a shared boat transfer to the city center and check into your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure to explore Venice and its stunning lagoon. For added comfort, an optional private transfer is also available.

Accommodation at Hotel Principe, Venice, or similar

DAY 2: GONDOLA RIDE & VENICE AT YOUR OWN PACE

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then dedicate a full day to discovering Venice or exploring its lagoon. You can choose a guided walking tour through the city's most famous sites, including Piazza San Marco with the Basilica and the Clock Tower, and the Rialto Bridge. Alternatively, opt for a skip-the-line guided tour of the Doge's Palace, where you can explore the Doge's luxurious apartments and the famous Bridge of Sighs.

For a different experience, consider a boat trip to the islands of the Venice lagoon. Visit Murano, renowned worldwide for its glass craftsmanship; Burano, famous for its lace and the brightly painted fishermen's houses; and Torcello, the first settlement in the lagoon.

In the afternoon, enjoy an included 30-minute gondola ride. Meals: B

Accommodation at Hotel Principe, Venice, or similar

DAY 3: VENICE TO FLORENCE

After breakfast at the hotel, head to Venice Santa Lucia station to board a high-speed train to Florence. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore the 'Cradle of the Renaissance' on your own.

The rest of the day is yours to continue discovering Florence. Consider visiting one of the city's renowned museums (please note that museums in Florence are closed on Mondays), such as the Uffizi Galleries, which houses masterpieces by Italian Renaissance masters like Leonardo da Vinci, Caravaggio, Raphael, Titian, Botticelli, and others. Alternatively, you might visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo's famous statue of David or take a half-day trip to Pisa to view its iconic Leaning Tower. Meals: B

Accommodation at Hotel Executive, Florence, or similar

DAY 4: FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an unforgettable journey through Florence, guided by a local expert who will reveal the city's rich history spanning over two thousand years. This half-day tour will take you to the most beautiful squares and monuments, showcasing why Florence is one of the world's most visited destinations.

After the guided tour, the rest of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. Visit more of Florence's stunning monuments and museums or organize an excursion to the surrounding areas. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay. Meals: B

Accommodation at Hotel Executive, Florence, or similar

DAY 5: FLORENCE TO ROME

Start your day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Santa Maria Novella rail station to board a high-speed train to Roma Termini. The journey takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Upon arrival in Rome, check-in at your hotel and enjoy some free time for independent exploration.

Take this opportunity to discover Rome's most iconic landmarks, such as Piazza Navona, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the Spanish Steps.

Alternatively, you can join optional activities like a cooking lesson to learn how to make pizza, pasta, and gelato. For dinner, we recommend trying a typical Roman restaurant to experience authentic local cuisine. Meals: B

Accommodation at Hotel Diana Roof Garden, Rome, or similar

DAY 6: IMPERIAL ROME WITH THE COLOSSEUM

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before setting out for another day of exploring Rome. Today, you'll join an Imperial Tour of Rome to admire the monuments of the Roman Forum, enter the Colosseum, and listen to your guide's presentation of the evocative history of ancient Rome and the gladiator battles that took place there.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to continue exploring the Eternal City. Consider joining an optional afternoon tour to visit the Vatican Museums, an unforgettable experience with its vast collection of art and history, including the renowned Sistine Chapel, St. Peter's Basilica, and much more. Meals: B

Accommodation at Hotel Diana Roof Garden, Rome, or similar

DAY 7: ROME TO SORRENTO VIA POMPEII

This morning, make your way to Rome Termini Rail Station to board a high-speed train to Naples, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Upon arrival, meet your driver and transfer to Pompeii for a 2-hour visit to the archaeological site, with entrance tickets included. This ancient Roman city was buried under volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, preserving it for nearly 1700 years. After exploring Pompeii, transfer to Sorrento, known for its charming old town and the picturesque fisherman’s village of Marina Grande, one of the city’s most authentic treasures. Enjoy an overnight stay at your hotel in Sorrento. Meals: B

Accommodation at Hotel Michelangelo, Sorrento, or similar

DAY 8: CAPRI EXCURSION

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Today, join a small group tour of Capri and Anacapri, which includes a visit to the famous Blue Grotto (weather permitting). This excursion allows you to experience the stunning Blue Grotto, renowned for its captivating colors and atmosphere. Afterward, explore Anacapri and Capri and discover the island's many attractions (lunch not included). In the afternoon, return to Sorrento. Meals: B

Accommodation at Hotel Michelangelo, Sorrento, or similar

DAY 9: SORRENTO TO REGGIO CALABRIA

After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Naples Afragola station to board a high-speed train bound for Reggio Calabria. This scenic journey will offer views of the beautiful landscapes of Southern Italy as you approach the tip of the Italian boot.

Upon arrival in Reggio Calabria, a city rich in myths, legends, and culture, you'll find one of the most beautiful and captivating destinations in Southern Italy. Stroll along the Lungomare Falcomatà, one of the longest and most romantic promenades in Italy, and take in stunning views of Sicily across the Strait of Messina.

Explore Reggio's elegant historic center, which boasts attractions such as the magnificent city Basilica, the Aragonese Castle, and several historical museums. The city is also home to excellent restaurants that preserve the traditional flavors and recipes of Calabria, a region known for its culinary heritage and warm hospitality. Meals: B

Accommodation at Torrione Hotel, Reggio Calabria, or similar

DAY 10: REGGIO CALABRIA TO TAORMINA AREA

After breakfast at the hotel, make your way independently to the port of Reggio Calabria to board a ferry to Messina, bidding farewell to Calabria. The ferry will cross the legendary Strait of Messina, celebrated in ancient Greek poetry and lore. Upon arrival in Messina, a private transfer will take you directly to Taormina, one of Sicily's most enchanting cities.

Upon reaching Taormina, check-in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Visit the magnificent Greco-Roman theatre, renowned as one of the largest and best-preserved ancient theatres, offering spectacular views of Mount Etna and the sea. Wander along the main street of Taormina, lined with shops, cafes, and ice cream parlors. Meals: B

Accommodation at Arathena Rocks Hotel, Taormina/Giardini Naxos, or similar

DAY 11: TAORMINA AT YOUR OWN PACE

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day of leisure in Taormina. For those seeking relaxation, take advantage of the town's beautiful beaches and serene seaside.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a half-day trip to Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Explore the craters and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

In the afternoon, return to Taormina and unwind on the stunning Isola Bella beach, easily accessible by cable car from the city center. Meals: B