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Compare Italy: Classic Tuscany and the Treasures of Florence by Road Scholar vs Country Roads of Italy - Small Group by Insight Vacations

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Duration 13 days 17 days
Price From $ 3,699 $ 6,675
Price Per Day $ 285 $ 393
Highlights
  • Visit the famed quarries of Carrara to learn why this marble is the material of choice for great sculptors and architects
  • Explore the villa of Lorenzo de'Medici at Poggio a Caiano, and visit a winery in the Tuscan countryside to sample Tuscan wines
  • View the great masterpieces in Florence: works by Donatello, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, Caravaggio, Cellini and Michelangelo’s iconic sculpture, “David
  • Choose between two carefully selected activities
  • Siena: Visit Siena's medieval black and white striped cathedral with your Local Expert.
  • Siena: Enjoy a tasting of Panforte, a traditional Tuscan dessert containing fruits and nuts.
  • Rome: Enjoy a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travellers at a uniquely Roman local restaurant.
  • Orvieto: Handmade pasta, genuine Umbrian specialties and rich flavours make for a special Highlight Dinner at La Buca di Baco di Ely.
  • Siena: Enjoy a tasting of Panforte, a traditional Tuscan dessert containing fruits and nuts.
  • Radda in Chianti: Learn what to look for in a quality vino rosso, and what foods to pair it with when ordering Florentine cuisine.
  • San Gimignano: Ascend serpentine alleyways to the artisan gelato parlour of world champion gelato maestro, Sergio Dondoli for a taste of his finest frozen treats.
  • Lucca: Visit a traditional steam bakery and sample Buccellato, the sweet raisin bread typical of the region.
  • Modena: Visit a producer of authentic balsamic vinegar to learn about its production, history and distinctive taste.
  • Parma: At Ciaolatte Parmesan you will meet, Signor Paolo, a local passionate about Italian food and quality cheese. Witness the cheese-making and ageing process of Parmigiano-Reggiano.
  • Burano: Cruise to the charming fisherman's island of Burano to enjoy a delicious Celebration Dinner with wine and new-found friends.
  • Dining Summary: 5 Dinner with Wine (DW), and 15 Breakfast (B)
  • Vatican: Gain priority access into the Vatican Museums and admire the famous Bramante Staircase. Witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and view the splendid dome of St. Peter's Basilica.
  • Rome: Discover ancient treasures of Rome with a passionate local. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, and stand beside the Colosseum, which bears witness to the limitless courage of the gladiators.
  • Rome: During your orientation with you Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
  • Castel Gandolfo: Explore the artistic treasure of the Villa Barberini Gardens and marvel at the intricately designed mosaic flower beds and fountains.
  • Sorrento: Perched upon the cliffs, lookout to see the mighty Mount Vesuvious across the Bay of Naples.
  • Sorrento: Experience the social ritual of la passeggiata.
  • Capri: Cruise by jetfoil to this famous isle through beautiful blue Mediterranean waters to meet your Local Expert.
  • Capri: Explore Capri town with your Local Expert and see the whitewashed houses, winding alleyways, small cafes, fashionable boutiques and artisans studios.
  • Positano: Drive along the Amalfi Coast to visit this seaside town. See the pastel rainbow of colourful houses precariously stacked upon one another as if cascading from the hilltop to the water.
  • Pompeii: Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the 1st century.
  • Orvieto: During your orientation of this Umbrian hilltop town with your Travel Director, visit Piazza del Duomo to admire the cathedral.
  • Assisi: See St. Mary of the Angels Church and join your Local Expert to walk through the cobbled streets to St. Clare's Church and see the cathedral.
  • Assisi: Discover why the Basilica of Saint Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of medieval Europe.
  • Perugia: Led by your Local Expert, your orientation will explore the Old Town and show you Priors' Palace, Collegio del Cambio, the cathedral, the Great Fountain and main square.
  • Siena: Visit Siena's medieval black and white striped cathedral with your Local Expert.
  • Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
  • Florence: See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods and witness a gold and leather-work demonstration.
  • San Gimignano: Visit the medieval Manhattan of Italy!
  • Lucca: Your orientation with your Travel Director will show you the churches, squares and palaces within the medieval ramparts.
  • Cinque Terre: Led by your Local Expert, visit this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked away on the mountainous Italian Riviera coastline. Explore one of the five charming fishing villages for some memorable pictures.
  • Venice: Delight in the magic of this charming city as you are serenaded, travelling through the atmospheric canals by gondola.
  • Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
  • Perugia: Meet Marta, a recipient of a TreadRight Foundation grant. Learn how she offers employment opportunities for local women and alongside her weavers, preserves the ancient craft of loom-weaving in an artisan workshop.The workshop is owned by women and actively empowers women and girls through its education and training programs. Marta, and her students help to safeguard the unique patterns while contributing to the protection of Umbria’s cultural heritage.  Laboratorio Guidetta Brozzetti advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality and UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities.
  • Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft.  The workshop advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Trip Style Small group tour Small group tour
Lodging Level Standard Standard
Physical Level
  • 0- Wheelchair accessible
  • 0- Wheelchair accessible
Travel Themes
  • 50 plus
  • Education / Learning
N/A
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Lucca
  • Pisa
  • Siena
  • Tuscany
  • Amalfi Coast
  • Florence
  • Lucca
  • Perugia
  • Rome
  • Siena
  • Sorrento
  • Tuscany
  • Umbria
  • Venice
Flights & Transport Airfare included Airfare included
Activities N/A N/A
Meals Included
  • 26 Meals
  • 11 Breakfasts
  • 6 Lunches
  • 9 Dinners
  • The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
N/A
Description Explore medieval villages, discover Renaissance architecture, visit ancient marble quarries and savor renowned wine and cuisine as you learn the timeless story of Tuscany and Florence. Journey across the Italian peninsula in this 16-day guided tour that stretches from the sapphire waters of the Amalfi Coast to the calming canals of Venice. Step outside Rome to Vatican City, where you’ll be treated to a behind-the-scenes viewing of the winding Bramante Staircase. Before reaching Sorrento, stop at Castel Gandolfo to ride an electric train past its papal gardens, marveling at the mosaic flower beds. Sail to the rock isle of Capri, where you can climb nearly 2,000 feet by an open-top taxi for unrivaled views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. In Perugia, learn the art of loom-weaving from a Local Expert. And in Venice, cruise along the canals and to Burano, an idyllic, colorful island in the Venetian Lagoon where you’ll toast to a fantastic trip and indulge in local specialties.
Itinerary: Italy: Classic Tuscany and the Treasures of Florence

Day 1
In Transit to Program
In Flight

Day 2
Arrive Lucca, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Lucca L,D Albergo Celide
Activity note: Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m. Drive to Lucca is 25 miles, and takes about 30 minutes. The orientation walk in Lucca is less than 1 mile.

Lunch: At the hotel restaurant. Water, wine, and coffee included.

Afternoon: After checking-in at the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Except breakfast, meals will be plated (each dish served to guests by waitstaff) from a set menu unless otherwise specified. Water is included with all meals and other beverages including wine, tea and coffee will be available for purchase unless otherwise specified. Unless indicated differently, transportation will primarily be provided by motor coach. Evenings at leisure offer opportunities to make the program more meaningful and memorable through personal independent exploration, attending performances or other events, or simply relaxing and making new friends among fellow participants. The Group Leader will always be happy to offer suggestions. Periods in the schedule designated as "Free time" and "At leisure" offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Set out for a neighborhood walk to locate ATMs, pharmacies, grocery stores, restaurants, etc. Return to the hotel for a Welcome Reception to get to know your Group Leader and fellow Road Scholars.

Dinner: At the hotel restaurant, we’ll have a plated and served meal. A glass of wine or beer is included.

Evening: At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the full day ahead.

Day 3
Basilica of San Martino, Tuscan History Lecture
Lucca B,L,D Albergo Celide
Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles exploring Lucca with extended periods of standing during site visits.

Breakfast: At the hotel, the buffet choices include an egg dish, fresh fruit, yogurt, breads, pastries, sliced cold cuts, an assortment of cheeses, cereals, muesli, jams, honey, butter, and a selection of hot and cold beverages including juice and water.

Morning: We’ll begin by meeting our local expert at the hotel and setting out on foot for a walking field trip to visit the Basilica of San Martino and admire its marble facade decorated with Romanesque statues and motifs. In the Middle Ages the city was a destination for pilgrims traveling to view relics housed within the basilica. Our walk back to the hotel will conclude with a stroll along a segment of the wide walls that surround the city. From the time Lucca was a Roman colony, a protective wall fortified the city within from invaders. With urban expansion the original walls were extended in the 17th century. Today, the 2.5 miles of the wall that encircle Lucca have been turned into a wide tree-lined path—the favorite promenade of local residents of all ages.

Lunch: Lunch at a characteristic trattoria in the heart of Lucca where the featured dish is farro soup and other traditional local dishes.

Afternoon: In the hotel meeting room, learn about the region of Tuscany through a presentation given by a local expert.

Dinner: At a charming restaurant in Lucca. Water and wine are included.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 4
Carrara Marble, Cucina Povera, Puccini Recital
Lucca B,L Albergo Celide
Activity note: Coach to Carrara is 28 miles, and takes 30 minutes. Short walk along a dusty dirt path with a slight incline from the coach drop-off area to the observation terrace overlooking the marble quarry.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We will travel by motorcoach with a local expert on a field trip to the quarries above the town of Carrara where we will see the massive machinery used to extract the marble and learn how excavation has changed with mechanized equipment.

Lunch: At an wine bar and restaurant in the center of Carrara, enjoy some local Tuscan dishes and wine.

Afternoon: Coach back to Lucca in the mid-afternoon for an illustrated presentation about rustic cooking in Tuscany given by a local expert.

Dinner: On your own. The group leader and local expert will have suggestions.

Evening: At a venue in the heart of Lucca, we’ll attend a recital of arias from operas by Giacomo Puccini, native son of Lucca, and Giuseppe Verdi.

Day 5
Piazza dei Miracoli, Duomo, Tower of Pisa
Lucca B,D Albergo Celide
Activity note: Getting on/off a train. Walking up to 4 miles total throughout the day on mostly level urban stone sidewalks and streets; small rise on a grassy knoll to reach the path on our morning walk. Train ride to Pisa is 22 miles, a ½ hour ride. Admission to the Leaning Tower is not included in the program cost.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: A local expert will meet us at the hotel and lead us on a discovery of Roman Lucca. In the center of the small city an oval piazza clearly marks the shape of the 1st century CE amphitheater. The foundations of the houses were built on the fortified walls of the ancient structure. Today the piazza is a lively mix of shops and houses.

Lunch: On your own.

Afternoon: We set out on foot for the station and take a train to Pisa where our local expert meets us. A short walk to the Piazza dei Miracoli, also known as Piazza del Duomo, leads us to the Duomo and Baptistery. The famous Leaning Tower is also part of the same Duomo complex. The lacy white marble tiers of the buildings contrast with the wide green lawns, which is unusual for a city cathedral. Until the port of Pisa silted up, the city was a strong maritime republic (along with Genoa, Amalfi and Venice) and the wealth of the city is demonstrated by the civic and religious pride the inhabitants had by funding such a grandiose construction. We’ll then have some free time in Pisa. If you choose to climb the 300 spiraling steps of the famous Leaning Tower, you can purchase a ticket for 18 euros per person. The group leader can assist in securing a reserved entrance time a few days before the Pisa field trip. Train back to Lucca.

Dinner: At Ristorante Celide next to the hotel. A glass of wine is included.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 6
Siena, Winery, Duomo, Museo dell'Opera del Duomo
Siena B,L,D NH Siena Hotel
Activity note: Coach to Siena is 90 miles and takes 2 hours. Walking up to 2 miles in Siena; some stairs in front of the Duomo; pedestrian only roads with inclines to the main square.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Check out of the hotel. Board the coach to Siena along a scenic route through olive orchards and vineyards in the Chianti hills near Siena.

Lunch: At a winery we visit the vineyards and cantina before enjoying bruschetta, local cured meats and cheeses, wine and biscotti.

Afternoon: We continue to Siena. Check into the hotel. After settling into our rooms, we’ll meet a local expert who will lead us on a walking field trip to Siena's elaborately decorated cathedral (il Duomo) where the floors are paved with inlaid marble depicting figures in religious and allegorical scenes. The field trip will continue to the Museo dell'Opera del Duomo to admire Duccio di Buoninsegna's Maesta'.

Dinner: At a restaurant in the Piazza del Campo, enjoy some traditional Tuscan dishes with a spectacular view. Water and wine included.

Evening: With our Group Leader we’ll walk back to the hotel along the pedestrian only streets of Siena.

Day 7
Life in Italy Today, Piazza del Campo, Palazzo Pubblico
Siena B,D NH Siena Hotel
Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles on hilly terrain over stone paved streets of Siena; negotiating the inclines and descents of the hill town of Siena will require more effort than the walks in Lucca or Florence. The historical city center is restricted to car traffic so that you can walk freely, but every walk is up or down an incline.

Breakfast: At the hotel, the breakfast buffet offers choices including an egg dish, sliced cold cuts, an assortment of cheeses, cereals, muesli, yogurt, fresh fruit, breads and pastries, jams, honey, butter, and a selection of hot and cold beverages including juice and water.

Morning: In a classroom session led by our Group Leader at the hotel, we will explore the regional aspects of Italian society and the national institutions that shape the lives of residents today. After a short break, we’ll meet for an expert-led city orientation walk that will end up in the Piazza del Campo. The perimeter of the wide square is the site where the famed Palio horse race takes place in July and August. After, we will continue to the Palazzo Pubblico, still serving today as the town hall. One of the rooms contain an important fresco cycle depicting The Allegory of Good and Bad Government by Ambrogio Lorenzetti and a fresco of Guidoriccio da Fogliano on horseback. Scholars have long attributed the work to the 14th-century Sienese painter Simone Martini and our local expert will explain the controversy that has arisen about re-attributing the fresco to a much later artist.

Lunch: On your own to sample local fare.

Afternoon: Our expert-led field trip will continue to part of the collection in the museum complex of Santa Maria della Scala. Originally a hospital offering shelter and support to people in need, it was eventually converted into a museum complex containing some of the most iconic work in Siena.

Dinner: At the hotel restaurant. Water, a glass of wine and coffee are included.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 8
Palio Walk & Lecture, San Gimignano, Organic Farm
Siena B,D NH Siena Hotel
Activity note: The drive from Siena to San Gimignano is 27 miles, and takes 1 hour. Walking up to 1.5 miles in the small town; not strenuous but the town roads are inclined.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Set out on foot to get an intimate look at the pride and sense of community during an exclusive visit to a contrada meeting hall, chapel and small museum. Learn first hand about the Palio, the race held twice in the summer months where each of the city's districts, called contrade, sponsor a horse to represent their neighborhood. A local expert explains how the shame of losing the Palio is enough to encourage cheating. Even though there is one race in July and another in August, the competitive spirit among the contrade is manifest all year round.

Lunch: On your own.

Afternoon: Excursion by coach to San Gimignano for an expert-led visit of the medieval city. An original Etruscan village, this town retains much of its medieval aspect. At one time 77 towers were standing in the city. They were used in family rivalries in order to attain the advantage of higher ground. Board the coach for a short ride a few miles outside of town to an organic farm where you can visit the farm and wine cellar. The host explains the production of extra virgin olive oil, wine, saffron, and the characteristics of Chianino cattle.

Dinner: Enjoy a farm to table dinner at the organic farm's restaurant. Sample Vernaccia di San Gimignao, one of the few Tuscan white wines produced in the area.

Evening: Coach back to the hotel.

Day 9
Pienza, Free Time, Tuscan Hills
Siena B,D NH Siena Hotel
Activity note: Drive to Pienza is 35 miles, and takes 1 hour. Walking up to 1.5 miles in Pienza, a very small hill town.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We’ll begin our day with a field trip via motorcoach to the town of Pienza. Pope Pius II Piccolomini (1458-1464), a humanist scholar and poet, was born nearby and, once he became pope, he began a project to transform Pienza into an idealized Renaissance city, built his palace near the main piazza, and renamed the town after himself. Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions for independent exploration of the main street, village square of Pienza, and a panoramic road with spectacular views of the rolling Tuscan hills. While in Pienza, we’ll have some free time to explore the cheese shops, wine bars, and small elegant church or just relax on a bench along a scenic path in the heart of the town.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like. In the small town of Pienza there are many wine bars, cafés, and restaurants from which to choose.

Afternoon: On the coach ride back to Siena, sit back and admire the rolling hills of vineyards dotted with isolated farmhouses. Once in Siena, we will have some free time prior to dinner.

Dinner: At the hotel restaurant. Water, a glass of wine and coffee are included.

Evening: At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

Day 10
Poggio a Caiano, Galleria dell'Accademia
Florence B,L,D Hotel Berchielli
Activity note: Drive to Florence is 42 miles, and takes 1.5 hours. Walking up to 1.5 miles. The sculpture gallery is on the ground level at the Accademia; the picture gallery on the upper level; there is a small elevator for those who require it.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We’ll begin our transfer to Florence but stop en route in Poggio a Caiano for an expert-led field trip to the Villa of Lorenzo de' Medici. The architect Giuliano da Sangallo incorporated elements of classical antiquity: an arched portico which served as a porch and a shaded area around the building as well as a glamorous outdoor entrance flanked by grand staircases leading to the main entryway. The main halls are decorated with frescoes by Pontormo and Andrea del Sarto. Afterwards, we’ll continue our transfer to Florence and check into the hotel.

Lunch: At a pizzeria near the hotel in Florence, choose from a limited pizza and salad menu. Water and a soft drink are included.

Afternoon: From the hotel, we will set out on foot for the Accademia delle Belle Arti to marvel at Michelangelo's David. A local expert will lead the field trip through the sculpture collection in the main hall which includes the David as well as the unfinished pieces called the Prisoners which seem to be still imprisoned in the block of Carrara marble. There are other small collections in the museum that you might want to browse on your own, such as the collection of early string instruments or the painting gallery with works from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and early 17th century.

Dinner: At a local restaurant, enjoy traditional Tuscan cuisine. Water and a glass of wine are included.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 11
Renaissance Art Lecture, Free Time, Galleria degli Uffizi
Florence B,L Hotel Berchielli
Activity note: The walk from the restaurant to the Uffizi Gallery is about 400 yards (3 minutes).

Breakfast: At the hotel, buffet choices include an egg dish, sliced cold cuts, an assortment of cheeses, cereals, muesli, yogurt, fresh fruit, breads and pastries, jams, honey, butter, and a selection of hot and cold beverages including juice and water.

Morning: In the meeting room of the hotel, an art historian will join us and give an overview of Renaissance Art and, with an illustrated presentation, describe highlighted works of art in the collection of the Uffizi. Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Perhaps visit the area of Filippo Brunelleschi's church of San Lorenzo. The Central Market was built in the late 19th century and, even today, vendors still set up their carts along the streets with leather goods, pottery, scarves, souvenirs, etc. Stalls also display and sell fresh and cured meats, cheeses, breads, and other foods. In addition, there is a fresh "fast food" court where you can get sandwiches, pizza, focaccia, or hot dishes. This gives you an idea of how some Florentines eat when they do not have time to go home.

Lunch: At a restaurant in Piazza della Signoria.

Afternoon: Reserved entrance time to the Uffizi eliminates the wait to enter. Once inside, visit the rooms of art treasures at your own pace. In the Uffizi, works are arranged in an order that illustrates the progression from the International Gothic style to Mannerism and examples of Baroque art with pieces by Caravaggio and Artemisia Gentilleschi. There is a coffee/refreshment bar at the end of the corridor on the upper level where you can relax and purchase refreshments while enjoying a commanding view of the bell tower of Palazzo Vecchio and the Cupola of the Duomo.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 12
Bargello, Free Afternoon, Farewell Dinner
Florence B,D Hotel Berchielli
Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles. The Bargello has a flight of stone stairs to reach the upper floor; a small elevator is in service for those who require it.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: Meet the local expert for a Walk of Discovery to learn about Renaissance Florence before commencing our expert-led visit of the Bargello National Museum of Sculpture. The collection includes sculptures by Donatello (St. George, David), the competition pieces between Filippo Brunelleschi and Lorenzo Ghiberti for the north doors of the Baptistery, and sculptures by Michelangelo, Giambologna, and Cellini. In addition to sculpture, there are also rooms with fine examples of decorated pottery and armaments including swords, lances, early pistols, and suits of armor. There is also a fresco by Giotto and his school in the Chapel—on the right side one can see what is considered to be an early portrait of Dante.

Lunch: On your own.

Afternoon: Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: At a local restaurant, recap your adventures and share your favorite memories with your fellow participants over our plated and served farewell dinner. Enjoy a glass of wine to toast new friendships.

Evening: At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.

Day 13
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
In Flight B
Activity note: Hotel check out by 11:00 a.m. Assistance is offered loading and unloading bags from the van or coach. Wheel your own bag luggage to the check in counter. See your program's travel details regarding transfers.

Breakfast: Buffet at the hotel; a bagged breakfast with a fruit, a roll or pastry, and fruit juice for participants with very early morning departure. This concludes our program.

Morning: If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Itinerary: Country Roads of Italy - Small Group

Day 1: Welcome to the Eternal City of Rome

Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and baroque churches. Transfers depart from Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport for your hotel at 09:30, 12:30 and 15:30. Relax and settle in before joining your Travel Director at 17:30, and get to know your fellow travellers over a delicious Welcome Dinner with wine at a local restaurant.

Veneto Palace Hotel, Rome.

Dinner with Wine

Day 2: Vatican and Rome with a Local

Today is devoted to The Eternal City. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth visit to the Vatican Museums, full of priceless art treasures collected by the Popes. Insight has arranged special priority entry to gain behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase, a marvel of renaissance architecture, normally off-limits to visitors. Visit the Sistine Chapel, where the Popes are elected, to admire Michelangelo’s famous ceiling. Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, to wonder at another of his works, the emotive ‘Pietà,’ and stand beneath the dome completed after his death. Cross the Tiber river to enjoy views of ancient Rome. See the incredible Circus Maximus and the legendary Colosseum. There’s free time to do as the Romans do, or perhaps join a walking tour and toss a coin into the spectacular Trevi Fountain, see the Pantheon, the best preserved monument from the Roman period, and enjoy free time in Piazza Navona.

Veneto Palace Hotel, Rome.

Breakfast

Day 3: Castel Gandolfo

Venture to Castel Gandolfo to explore the artistic treasure of the Villa Barberini Gardens. Ride an electric train along the pathways to marvel at the intricately designed mosaic flower beds and fountains. After our visit to the former papal gardens our journey continues on south past Naples to the resort town of Sorrento.

Majestic Palace Hotel, Sorrento.

Breakfast

Day 4: Capri, the Isle of Dreams

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 by one of the island's iconic open-top taxis. Explore the narrow alleyways, browse in exclusive boutiques and wonder at the views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Descend to the port by funicular railway and return to Sorrento, where you are at leisure for the rest of the day.

Majestic Palace Hotel, Sorrento.

Breakfast

Day 5: The Picturesque Amalfi Coast

Travel along Italy’s finest coastline, the Amalfi Coast. Board minibuses and stop to admire a view of the terraced houses of the artist's paradise of Positano, clinging to the cliff face. Take time to be tempted by the local boutiques.

Majestic Palace Hotel, Sorrento.

Breakfast

Day 6: Pompeii and Orvieto

Journey to the ancient Roman city of Pompeii and explore with your Local Expert. Travel into the heart of Italy to enjoy free time in Orvieto, located on a rock pedestal overlooking a vineyard-covered plain. Savour the distinctly medieval ambiance during your orientation and admire the richly decorated facade of the cathedral in Piazza del Duomo. Take in the flavours of the region and enjoy a Highlight Dinner at a local restaurant with a glass of Orvieto Classico wine - a magical culinary experience!

Aquila Bianca Hotel, Orvieto.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 7: Assisi and on to Perugia Relaxed Start

Cross the River Tiber to see the church of St. Mary of the Angels. Under the dome is a small medieval chapel and the spot where St. Francis died. In Assisi see St. Clare’s Church and the cathedral. Continue to walk down the Via San Francesco and visit the huge Basilica of St. Francis with a Local Expert. Journey to beautiful Perugia - the jewel of Umbria. Your guided walking exploration begins in the main street of Perugia's Old Town. See the Collegio del Cambio, the splendid Priors' Palace, the Cathedral and the finely sculptured Great Fountain in the magnificent main square. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit an artisanal workshop and meet Marta, a recipient of a TreadRight Foundation grant. Learn how Marta and her weavers are preserving the ancient craft of loom-weaving.

Sangallo Palace Hotel, Perugia.

Breakfast

Day 8: Perugia, the Jewel of Umbria Relaxed Start

The entire day is at leisure for you to explore this gem of a town on your own. Perhaps visit Cortona, one of the oldest hill towns in Tuscany. On this Optional Experience, journey to a recently unearthed Etruscan Temple before a guided exploration through the town's historic centre with views of Lake Trasimeno and the Val di Chiana. In the evening there is the option to discover the edible treasures of a traditional Umbrian kitchen, accompanied with wines of the region.

Sangallo Palace Hotel, Perugia.

Breakfast

Day 9: Siena and Radda in Chianti Relaxed Start

Drive past Lake Trasimeno to Siena. Explore Siena with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the medieval Cathedral or alternatively, sample panforte, a traditional Tuscan dessert. Travel through the cypress-clad hills and vineyards of Tuscany to your elegant hotel. On arrival, enjoy a delicious exploration of Tuscany's red wines, discovering their robust flavours and absorbing history.

CDH Hotel Radda, Tuscany.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 10: Renaissance Florence

Journey to Renaissance Florence where on arrival you will walk with a Local Expert to see the marble-clad cathedral, bell tower and Gates of Paradise on the baptistery. Enjoy time at leisure to explore Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at the fountains and sculptures along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. Wander the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods of gold and leather.

CDH Hotel Radda, Tuscany.

Breakfast

Day 11: San Gimignano and on to Lucca Relaxed Start

Visit the hilltop town of San Gimignano. Enjoy a tasting with award-winning, master gelato maker, Sergio Dondoli whose great inventions include innovative and mouth-watering flavour combinations. Continue to Lucca, to view its churches, squares and palaces that are perfectly preserved within encircling medieval ramparts. Pause a while and taste the lavish loaves of buccellato, Lucca's sweet raisin anise bread, said to be a favourite of the ancient Roman army. Later, perhaps explore Pisa?

Hotel Villa La Principessa, Lucca.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 12: Exploring the Cinque Terre

Get ready to explore the Cinque Terre, or five villages, which for years were only accessible by foot. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Italy's most beautiful landscapes. Join a Local Expert in one of the picturesque fishing villages, before cruising along the rugged coastline (weather permitting). There is plenty of time to explore the old medieval quarter and popular sandy beach before returning to your hotel in Lucca.

Hotel Villa La Principessa, Lucca.

Breakfast

Day 13: Modena and on to Parma

Visit one of Modena's top producers of authentic, traditional, artisan balsamic vinegar and take a master class to understand what makes this vinegar as expensive as top-rated wines. Continue to the beautiful university town of Parma, world-famous for its local ham and cheese. Meet one of the locals, Paolo. Learn about the process of making Parmigiano-Reggiano as Signor Paolo shares with you his passions for Italian food, especially excellent quality Parmesan cheese. Taste samples of the famous Parmigiano-Reggiano, accompanied by a glass of wine.

Starhotels Du Parc, Parma.

Breakfast

Day 14: Onto Venice

Continue on through the Soave vineyards past Padua to Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. To the tune of accompanying musicians, you will be serenaded through the atmospheric canals as you glide by gondola, past water-lapped doorways and rococo palaces.

Hilton Molino Stucky, Venice.

Breakfast

Day 15: The Magic of La Serenissima

Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during a visit to a traditional arts centre, where you can see how beautiful handcrafted glass is made by expert glassblowers, safeguarding traditional skills. Visit St. Mark’s Square where the city’s former wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St. Mark’s Basilica and admire the Doge's Palace with its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. The waterways of Venice are renowned for gondolas that drift by. In the evening, cruise the islands of the Venetian Lagoon to arrive at Burano, famous for its candy coloured houses. Sit down to a sumptuous Celebration Dinner with wine, sampling the local specialities.

Hilton Molino Stucky, Venice.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 16: Arrivederci Venice

Your departure transfer arrives at Venice Marco Polo Airport at 08:00 and 09:30.

Breakfast

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