Compare Italy Explorer by Expat Explore vs Premium Tuscany by Intrepid Travel

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

Welcome to Rome! Meet up with your tour leader at our hotel in the afternoon and prepare for a great evening. Your tour leader will show you ‘Rome by night’ - explore some of the iconic sights of the Eternal City including the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Navona and the Pantheon. Later this evening we'll enjoy dinner at Alfredo Alla Scrofa, a 'ristorante' with an international reputation - the perfect place to get to know your fellow travellers.

Experiences
Your tour begins! Tonight you will enjoy a evening tour of Rome - see the capital in all it's glory, including views of the Trevi Fountain, Piazza Nova and Pantheon.
Try some classic Roman cuisine and get to know your Expat Explore tour leader and fellow travellers at the welcome dinner this evening.

Accommodation
Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Other Foods to try
After joining the tour, you will enjoy a dinner in the evening - the perfect opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers! Typical dishes include penne carbonara, spaghetti with garlic and olive oil, as well as a range of meat dishes, including roasted chicken and beef.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 2: Rome - Sorrento

Leaving Rome, we’ll head to the Sorrento peninsula, stopping off along the way to see Mount Vesuvius and to explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, destroyed in 79AD in a catastrophic volcanic eruption. Upon arrival on the Sorrento peninsula we have a two night stay. This area is famous for limoncello (a sweet lemon liqueur), the perfect way to finish off your included dinner this evening!

Experiences
See Mount Vesuvius and explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii - preserved since ancient times under meters of ash and pumice, it offers superb insights into life (and death) in the ancient Roman Empire. An expert local guide will accompany you and introduce you to the history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Accommodation
Giosue A Mare
Hotel Oriente
Other Foods to try
After arriving in Sorrento you will be treated to a Neapolitan dinner. As Sorrento is on the Mediterranean coast, seafood features heavily in the local cuisine. You can expect to enjoy dishes such as fresh fish, margherita pizza - which was created in this region - and meatballs. After the meal, why not opt for a glass of limoncello; this sweet lemon liqueur is a speciality of this area and is commonly taken as a digestif at the end of the meal.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 3: Sorrento - Free day

Your Italy tour continues with a free day in Sorrento. A gorgeous old town hugging the coastline, the Sorrento peninsula is our base for the day. Explore the towns in your own time, or alternatively choose our optional excursion to the famous Isle of Capri, where you can spend some free time exploring the rugged coastline, ancient Roman ruins and stylish piazzas.
Attractions to discover in your free time
Museo Correale Tue-Sat 09:30-18:30, Sun 09:30-13:30 Adults €7, Children €5
Duomo 08:00-12:00, 16:00-20:00 Free
Museo Bottega della Tarsia Lignea Tue-Sun 09:30-13:00, 16:00-18:00 Adults €8
Optional Excursions
Isle of Capri €70
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Day 4: Sorrento - Matera - Alberobello

Today we’ll head east and explore the southern Italian region of Apulia, taking a comfort stop along the way in the ancient cave city of Matera. Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Subterranean City), it is famous for its extensive cave-dwelling districts, the ‘sassi’. Later we'll arrive in Alberobello, and enjoy an orientation tour of the region's famous ‘trullo’ houses. These beautiful 14th century whitewashed stone huts have iconic conical roofs, and are specific to the Itria Valley. This afternoon you’ll have free time to further explore Alberobello; check out the trullo church of St Antony and the trulli museum.

Experiences
Comfort stop in the ancient cave city Matera. Human remains from 7,000 BC have been found here, and the historical center and the Park of the Rupestrian Churches is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the 14th century trulli stone houses, the Parrocchia Sant'Antonio di Padova church, and the Trullo Sovrano museum. Originally constructed as temporary shelters and storehouses by farm labourers, the trulli are now permanent features of Alberobello.

Accommodation
Hotel Astoria
Other Foods to try
Puglia - the ‘spur’ and ‘heel’ of Italy’s ‘boot’, is a great agricultural area, producing much of Italy’s durum wheat, so this is the perfect place for you to try the best fresh pasta in the world!
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 5: Alberobello - Taormina

Today we take a coastal drive beside the Ionian Sea, before we leave the mainland behind and take a short ferry ride over to the island of Sicily, home of Mount Etna. Prepare for stunning views as we make our way to Taormina. Upon arrival your tour leader will take you on an orientation walk of this hilltop town, showing you some of the highlights you can explore further on your free day tomorrow, including the historic Porta Catania and the Villa Comunale. This evening we’ll top off our Sicilian experience with an included dinner at our beachside hotel.

Experiences
Orientation walk of Taormina. One of the most popular holiday resorts in Sicily, Taormina was founded by the Greeks who built an amphitheater in a stunning hilltop location overlooked by Mount Etna. During your exploration with your tour leader, you will be taught about the art of passeggiata, an Italian social custom. As you roam through the streets and alleyways, the presence of the active volcano Mount Etna adds to the excitement of visiting this Greco-Roman town.

Accommodation
Hotel delle Palme
Other Foods to try
Why not try, pasta alla Norma, it is among Sicily's most historic and iconic dishes. It's made with tomatoes, fried aubergine, grated ricotta salata cheese, and basil.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 6: Taormina - Free day

Enjoy a free day to relax on Sicily's beautiful beaches, or explore the island's quaint towns. The town of Taormina itself is one of Italy’s most popular summer destinations, perched on the side of a mountain and offering medieval churches, a castle and Greek amphitheatre. For those looking to explore further afield on their Italian tour, speak to your tour leader for their recommendations, including boat tours of the beautiful coast line, paragliding and 'Godfather' tours.
Optional Excursions
Taormina boat cruise €25
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Day 7: Taormina - Catania - Agrigento

Today we’ll drive to through the heart of Sicily, along the way taking a comfort stop in Catania. With a Unesco-listed historic centre boasting many beautiful baroque buildings. This afternoon, get your cameras ready as stopping at the ‘Valle dei Templi’ (Valley of the Temples), one of the most outstanding examples of Greater Greece art and architecture. We’ll then arrive at our accommodation in Agrigento.

Experiences
Comfort stop in Catania, a vibrant and energetic city, with a UNESCO-listed historic center, where palazzi (grand residences) tower over baroque-style squares.
Explore the Valley of the Temples, a national monument of Italy and archaeological site in Agrigento. The Valley includes the remains of seven temples built in the Doric style.

Accommodation
Hotel Dioscuri Bay Palace
Hotel Akrabello
Other Foods to try
For dessert why not try Cassatelle alla Trapanese, these are small soft crescents of dough filled with cream, ricotta, and chocolate chips. They are sprinkled with icing sugar and are served hot.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 8: Agrigento - Marsala - Palermo

Enjoy a beautiful drive this morning as we make our way round the western tip of Sicily to the island's capital, Palermo. Along the way we'll make a comfort stop in Marsala, a city built on the ruins of the ancient Carthaginian city of Lilybaion, and famous for it's Marsala wine. Arriving early afternoon in Palermo, you’ll enjoy a walking tour to introduce you to the city’s highlights. Founded more than 2,700 years ago by the Phoenicians, Palermo is noted for its history, culture, architecture and food. Sights you'll see on you walking tour include the San Giovanni degli Eremiti church, Piazza Indipendenza, Porta Nuova (The New Gate) and the Cathedral of Palermo.

Experiences
Drive along the western coast of Sicily, with stunning views of the Mediterranean and Tyrrhenian Seas. Take a comfort stop in Marsala, an historic city famous for its sweet dessert wines, marble-paved streets and stately baroque architecture.
Enjoy a walking tour of Palermo; see the highlights of this historic city, a melting pot of cultures over the centuries. Make a note of all the places you want to explore further on your free day tomorrow.

Accommodation
Hotel Athenaeum
Other Foods to try
Feeling like a snack? Arancini are stuffed rice balls which are coated with breadcrumbs and then deep fried. They are usually filled with meat and tomato sauce, mozzarella, and peas.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 9: Palermo - Free day

Enjoy a full day to further explore Sicily’s capital. Over the centuries Palermo has been colonized by many different rulers over the centuries, including the Greeks, Romans and Normans. This melting pot has resulted in a variety of architectural styles for you to explore in the historic old town. This evening, we’ll take an overnight ferry back to the Italian mainland.
Optional Excursions
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Day 10: Rome

This morning we’ll arrive back on the Italian mainland and make our way back to Rome, ready to explore the capital and northern Italy! Arriving early afternoon you'll have the rest of the day to explore the capital before enjoying an included dinner this evening.

Experiences
Enjoy the afternoon free to explore Rome, before our included dinner this evening.

Accommodation
Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Other Foods to try
Enjoy a dinner in the evening. You can expect to enjoy a three course meal, including starter, main course and dessert. Typical dishes include penne carbonara, spaghetti with garlic and olive oil, as well as a range of meat dishes, including roasted chicken and beef.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 11: Rome

Today we’ll take a guided walking tour of the city, stopping off at the landmarks that have made Rome a perennial favourite with travellers all over the world. See ancient Roman architecture, medieval buildings, Renaissance artworks and more remnants of Rome’s illustrious past as capital of this incredible country – and of the Roman Empire at large. Be sure to see sightseeing highlights like the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, the Roman Forum, the Pantheon and the countless other attractions that make Rome famous the world over. Later, you’ll have the option of taking a guided walking tour of the Vatican City. Marvel at glittering artworks, vast marble halls and opulent architecture – all part and parcel of the Vatican’s status as the seat of papal power. Eating and drinking well is also an important part of Roman life, and as they say, ‘When in Rome, do as the Romans do.’ Try excellent Italian cuisine, and be sure to grab a famous Roman gelato while you’re sight-seeing!

Experiences
Included in our tour, we take a locally-guided walking tour of the city, stopping off at some of the sightseeing highlights that make Rome famous. Highlights include the Pantheon, the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, Piazza del Popolo, the Roman Forum and much more.
Optional Excursions
Vatican City guided tour €50
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Other Foods to try
Seek out a pizzeria and grab a slice of pizza! True to Roman tradition, you won't get many toppings, but the pizza is cooked in wood fired ovens to thin, fresh and chewy perfection. Bellissimo!
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 12: Rome - Orvieto - Venice

Leaving the capital behind, we'll drive through the region of Umbria. Known as the 'fruit bowl of Italy', it is famous for its produce, food and beautiful mountainous landscapes. Prepare for one of the most spectacular sights in Europe as we approach Orvieto, a city perched dramatically atop sheer vertical volcanic rock. We'll take the funicular up to the historic centre, where you'll have some free time to explore and see the sights, including the exquisite facade of the Cathedral of Orvieto, the papal residence and the Albornoz fortress, before we travel on to Venice. You have the evening free to relax at the hotel, or explore Venice with the option to join your tour leader on a twilight water taxi cruise of the Venetian canals.

Experiences
Comfort stop in Orvieto, where you will have free time to explore and see the main sights in this incredible city perched upon a volcanic hill.
Optional Excursions
Venice by night €30
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Accommodation
Elite Residence Hotel
NH Laguna Palace
Hotel Complex Ambasciatori & Delfino
Hotel Venezia
Other Foods to try
You are free to indulge in the local cuisine. Venice is of course located on a lagoon, and is therefore heavily influenced by seafood, including cuttlefish and sardines. Be sure to ask your tour leader for their recommended restaurants, and don't miss out on trying tiramisu - translating as "pick me up" it is a delicious combination of coffee liqueur soaked-sponge with mascarpone cheese.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 13: Venice - Free day

You’ll start your stay in Venice with an orientation tour led by your tour leader so you can get your bearings, after which you have free time to explore this unforgettable city at your leisure. Every visit to Venice should include a gondola ride, which your tour leader can organise for you, as well as a trip further out into the lagoon to visit Murano and Burano. These islands are famous for their glass-blowing and lace-making crafts respectively, and rows of beautiful multi-coloured houses. Alternatively you can simply relax and soak up the sun on the sandy beaches at Jesolo or Lido. There’s also The Bridge of Sighs and the Doge’s Palace to see – and any number of culinary delights to sample too!
Optional Excursions
Venice Gondola Ride €20
Murano, Burano & Venetian lagoon €45
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.

Day 14: Lake Garda - Florence - Tuscany

Today, we make our way to the beautiful city of Florence, stopping along the way in Lake Garda for a photo opportunity. Then, we make our way to Florence for a guided walking tour. Learn more about the heritage of this city, which stretches back through the ages to encompass Renaissance artworks and Roman ruins. Sights to see in Florence include Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, Florence Cathedral, the Basilica of Santa Croce and of course Michelangelo’s David. A cultural and political focal point during the Renaissance, Florence is endowed with a huge variety of important buildings and famous artworks. We’ll then make our way to our accommodation in Tuscany.

Experiences
Lake Garda photo stop.
In Florence, enjoy a locally-guided walking tour taking in some of the city’s most famous attractions.

Accommodation
Hotel Massimo d'Azeglio
Hotel Meridiana Florence
Other Foods to try
Lampredotto is a Florence street food, consisting of the fourth stomach of the cow cooked in a broth and then served with salsa verde or/and spicy sauce. Be sure to try this interesting delicacy while you are in Florence!
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 15: Pisa - Cinque Terre - Tuscany

This morning we drive north to La Spezia in the Liguria region. This city is the gateway to Cinque Terre, five picturesque fishing villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. The harbours are filled with fishing boats, vines climb the terraces and the houses are painted in bright colours - you'll undoubtedly take some fantastic photos here! Each village is linked by hiking trails and a railway, giving you the choice of how best to explore. This afternoon we'll head back to Tuscany, stopping off on the way at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. A highlight of any tour to Italy, you’ll be able to snap photos of this legendary structure and explore the grounds, which include a cathedral and baptistery.

Experiences
Explore Cinque Terre's five picturesque villages. Recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, you'll have plenty of free time to experience this picturesque region, which also offers some of the best seafood in Italy.
See the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and take some iconic pictures of you ‘holding up’ the tower!

Accommodation
Hotel Massimo d'Azeglio
Hotel Meridiana Florence
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 16: San Gimignano - Siena - Rome

This morning we make our way through one of the world’s most picturesque countryside landscapes, admiring Tuscan farmhouses, vineyards and olive groves as we drive by. Our first stop of the day will be in San Gimignano, a small walled hill town. Known as the 'Town of Fine Towers', it offers beautiful Romanesque and Gothic architecture and 12 well-preserved tower houses. We'll then make the short drive to Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for the 'Palio' horse race held twice a year in the main piazza, or public square. We'll enjoy a wine tasting accompanied with antipasto, before we head back to Rome and round the off the day with a farewell dinner together on our last night of the tour.

Experiences
Comfort stop at the town of San Gimignano. Famous for its medieval towers, it is a real gem of the region. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, 13 of the original 70 towers remain, providing an iconic and unforgettable skyline that sets it apart from the many other hill towns in Tuscany. 
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage town of Siena, famous for the Palio horse race, held each year on 2nd July and 16th August. This bareback horse race has taken place since the 14th Century in the main town square of Siena, and the 17 participants represent local families, or contrade.
Enjoy a wine tasting accompanied by antipasto.

Accommodation
Hotel Cristoforo Colombo
Other Foods to try
Enjoy a wine tasting with antipasto, which translates as "before the meal" and is the traditional first course of a formal Italian meal. Typical antipasto includes cold cured meats, olives, anchovies, artichoke hearts, cheeses and peperoncino.
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 17: End of tour

After breakfast, your 17 day Italian adventure concludes. It is time to say your goodbyes to your fellow travellers, and of course, the incredible land of Italy. Arrivederci, Italia!

Experiences
If you would like to extend your stay in Rome after the tour, please contact us to confirm the hotel. By this point you will have enjoyed 17 incredible days exploring the very best of Italy. A true delight!
Extra Information
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

Day 1 Rome

Welcome to Rome! Enjoy a complimentary transfer to your hotel and settle in. If you arrive with time to spare, the city’s magnificent buildings are best appreciated on foot, so perhaps wander in search of an espresso. Your Italian adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you will meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Once the formalities are out of the way, get your first taste of Italy over an included dinner with your group at an excellent local restaurant. Sitting down to dinner in Rome means experiencing generations of culinary know-how and timeless traditional recipes. Once your leader introduces you to some of Italy’s best dishes, you’ll understand why this country is so renowned for great food.

Day 2 Rome

From incredible ancient monuments to glamourous restaurants and boutiques, Rome is a city of great beauty and diversity. Today join a private guide for a trip back in time. Marvel at the Spanish steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona before reaching Campo de Fiori, where a local fresh produce market has been held since 1869. Join your tour leader for a quick stop at a local bar for a granita - an iced Italian espresso and a must when in Rome. Next, visit a local aristocrat at his home close to the Campo de Fiori. Much of the apartment is still in its original state and features a stunningly painted ceiling. Find art and artifacts casually displayed throughout the rooms and chat with the energetic owner before sitting down for an included lunch in the dining room. The afternoon is free for you to explore as you please – perhaps take the chance to follow in the footsteps of gladiators and Roman emperors with a visit to the iconic Colosseum. Please note that tickets should be booked in advance, and before the beginning of your trip.

Day 3 Siena / Monteriggioni / San Gimignano Region

Today you’ll take a private vehicle to the gorgeous city of Siena, where your leader will show you the most interesting sights on an orientation walk. At the city’s heart is Piazza del Campo – home to the biannual Palio horse race, and nearby is the stunning Siena Cathedral. Next you’ll visit Monteriggioni – a charming medieval walled town. Over a dozen towers are spread throughout the town, once used to defend Sienese territory from the Florentines. You will have time to explore this tiny hilltop spot before arriving at your Feature Stay accommodation near San Gimignano. This country hotel with cinematic views of a tree-studded landscape and a refreshing outdoor pool is a fine spot to unwind. Tonight, indulge in an included gourmet dinner at your hotel with your group – the food is made with local ingredients and pays homage to traditional Tuscan dishes, with a modern twist.

Day 4 San Gimignano Region

Start the day with a visit to San Gimignano – the 'Town of Fine Towers'. Explore the medieval Old Town centre and its fine Gothic and Romanesque architecture, with your leader on hand to answer any questions inspired by your explorations. This region is also renowned for its ancient Vernaccia grapes, which are the basis for one of Tuscany's finest white wines. Your group will visit a local agriturismo, where you’ll explore the vineyards and sample some of their celebrated wine, before enjoying an included lunch featuring regional cheese, fine olive oil and bruschetta. Return to your Feature Stay accommodation for another delicious dinner.

Day 5 Pisa / Lucca / Florence

Today you’ll visit Pisa. It’s not always possible to climb the Leaning Tower of Pisa due to its precarious state, but as your leader shares the history of this legendary building, you will have the opportunity to photograph it from the ground. Your next stop is historic Lucca, one of Italy’s most beautiful but underrated cities, where you’ll take a short walk along the city’s beautifully preserved Renaissance walls. From here you’ll take the short journey to Florence where the evening is yours to walk the cobbled streets, eat gelato and soak up the unmistakenly Tuscan atmosphere.

Day 6 Florence

This morning join a private guided walk of Florence you will earn about its Glorious past and the notable families that made Florence an important centre for culture, economy and politics. Your tour includes a visit of the Galleria dell ‘Accademia, an art museum renowned for its collection of sculptures, including the iconic statue of David by Michelangelo. Enjoy a free afternoon at your own pace – ask your leader for some local tips on the best way to spend the day. Visiting the Uffizi while you are here is highly recommended – it is one of the oldest galleries in the world, and a building of great beauty. And be sure to head to Piazzale Michelangelo for sweeping views of Florence’s timeless skyline. Sample some of the culinary delicacies on offer from across Tuscany, with dishes known for their freshness, simplicity and quality. Olive oil, beans and herbs are a feature here. Two standout dishes of the region are bistecca alla fiorentina, a large steak sliced on the bone and shared between multiple diners, and ribollita, a simple, hearty soup of bread, vegetables, and beans. Panforte is the signature sweet treat.

Day 7 Venice

In the morning, head to the railway station and take a high-speed train to Venice. Upon arrival your leader will take you on an orientation walk so you can get acquainted with the city’s maze of canals and learn about its unique history, showing you some extraordinary views over the roofs of Venice. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore. The Grand Canal, the quaint shopfronts that line the Rialto Bridge and the Piazza and Basilica di San Marco are all worthy sights to visit, or simply meander around the tiny, cobbled streets and discover the beautiful markets, cafes, galleries and churches. A Venetian gondola ride down the canals is a must, as is a taste of the region’s dessert speciality, tiramisu. Later in the evening join your tour leader for a nice, included Venetian dinner.

Day 8 Venice

With no activities planned for today, your trip comes to an end after breakfast. Those looking to extend their stay can arrange additional nights' accommodation at the time of booking the trip (subject to availability).