Compare Rome to Amalfi by Intrepid Travel vs Under the Tuscan Sun: Italian Adventures With Your Family by Road Scholar

Day 1 Rome

Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Crowded with ancient ruins and religious monuments, Rome still pulses to the beat of modern life and is packed with designer shops, restaurants, cafes and exciting nightlife. There are no activities planned until your welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight, so you can arrive any time before then. There are so many things to do in Rome – the Colosseum, the Forum, Piazza Navona, the Spanish Steps, Via Condotti, Piazza Venezia, the Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica – so arriving early is recommended. Don’t forget to do as the Romans do and sip an espresso at one of the tiny streetside cafes or sample the many flavours of gelato that colour the city (Trastevere is a great spot for dining). For those captivated by the 'Eternal City', throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to Rome.

Day 2 Naples / Pompeii

Travel by train to Naples, a raucous city that overflows with passion, tradition and gastronomy. Naples was carved out by many empires of the past and by merchants and pirates from across the world: Romans, Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Venetians, Spaniards, Normans and Africans. Its evocative, historical old centre is a World Heritage-listed area and the famous Spanish Quarter is still one of the most densely populated residential areas in Europe. Take an orientation walk with your leader through the city center and the Spanish Quarter. Finish your walk with a visit to the statue of the Veiled Christ. This treasured piece of art was carved over 300 years ago. Its sheer beauty and serenity will surely leave you in awe. Naples is the birthplace of pizza, so why not head to one of the many pizzerias and taste what's truly some of the best in Italy. Later in the afternoon, board a train to the time capsule of Pompeii, in the shadow of Mt Vesuvius. Your accommodation is perfectly located right near the entrance to the archaeological excavation site.

Day 3 Pompeii

The small picturesque town of modern Pompeii has a wonderful Old Town square – the perfect place to while away some time with the locals, drinking true Italian coffee and watching the world go by. Most of today will be spent exploring the ruins of ancient Pompeii on a guided tour. Until 26 August, 79 AD, Pompeii was a thriving Roman trading centre, where ordinary people went about their everyday business, but it was frozen in time when Mount Vesuvius erupted, killing 2000 people and their homes under a layer of ash. The city was never rebuilt and largely disappeared from people’s minds until the 18th century when the ruins were re-discovered. Now, you can take an unparalleled look back into the lives of ancient Romans and discover how they lived, worked and interacted 2000 years ago. The finely preserved ruins include villas, temples, theatres and bustling markets. You can also visit the Roman Forum and Basilica, temples, public baths and the tiny Odeon created for music recitals. The rest of the day is free, but if the ruins piqued your interest, head to nearby Herculaneum, which also holds a wealth of fossilised archaeological finds.

Day 4 Mt Vesuvius / Sorrento

This morning a private transfer will take you up the mighty Mt Vesuvius, where you’ll meet a local volcanology guide. Ascend to the summit of Mt Vesuvius for staggering 360 degree views over the Bay of Naples and into the steaming crater. Although Mt Vesuvius is still considered to be an active volcano, the last eruption was in 1944 and there's no sign of lava. See firsthand the awesome power of the volcano that engulfed the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum in 79AD. In the afternoon, travel by private vehicle to the picturesque resort town of Sorrento. People have been coming to the peninsula and islands of the Sorrento region for at least 2000 years, and set invitingly atop dramatic cliffs over sparkling, blue waters, it's easy to see why. There are many options in this small seaside town with its fine piazzas, maze of old streets, sidewalk cafes and glamorous shops. The area is also famous for its lemon groves, producing the famous limoncello liqueur. In the evening, head out to try some of the best limoncello on offer in Sorrento.

Day 5 Sorrento

You have a free day to explore this delightful area and the museums, galleries and piazzas of Sorrento. Perhaps stroll along the marina or cool off in the waters of the local small beaches. They’re not big on sandy beaches here, so swimming Sorrento-style is via wooden or stone bathing platforms beneath the cliffs. Taking a trip to Capri is also a great option, with a hydrofoil taking you across to the island once home to the magnificent holiday palaces of the Roman emperors. Natural grottoes pierce Capri’s dramatic rocky coastline, while in the interior, narrow roads wind through fragrant citrus groves, past villages of flat-roofed white cubist-looking houses with flower-filled gardens, and manicured towns that offer swanky hotels and chic cafes. Here, you can take a boat trip to the fairy-tale Blue Grotto (La Grotta Azzurra), where the water shines with an extraordinary blue translucence, a result of the refraction of the sunlight outside. Your leader will be of assistance and have plenty of suggestions for what to do and see today. End the day in a very Italian way with a demonstration of Gelato making.

Day 6 Amalfi Coast

Arrive on the Amalfi Coast after a short journey by private vehicle. The Amalfi peninsula is a land of rocky coasts, cliff-top vistas, azure seas, tiered lemon groves, whitewashed villages clinging to steep cliffs and bright blue skies. If you're after a relaxing walk with a few cultural highlights, stroll from one side of Amalfi town to the other and visit the Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea and the Chiostro del Paradiso. If you’re after something more active, maybe embark on a walk through the Valley of Mills where for centuries paper mills were in operation. Alternatively, catch a bus up the Valley of Dragons to reach pretty Ravello. The French novelist Andre Gide once described this town as being ‘closer to the sky than the seashore’. For centuries, its lofty position and sunny, dry climate have made it an appealing place for writers, artists, musicians and travellers. Ravello also boasts two magnificent villas – the superb 11th Century Villa Rufolo, which was once the home of Wagner, and Villa Cimbrone, a sumptuous 19th Century mansion with fabulous gardens and unequalled views over the Gulf of Salerno. Tonight, you'll stay in Minor Town, just a 15-minute bus ride away from Amalfi Town. Just as picturesque as the tourist hotspots, this charming small town boasts more privacy and views just as good.

Day 7 Positano / Amalfi Coast

This morning, take the short bus ride to Amalfi Town. Your leader will take you for a half-day hike along the narrow trail of the famous Sentiero Degli Dei (the Walk of the Gods), which, until quite recently, was followed by mules and donkeys as they traversed the dramatic landscape. This path winds its way through unique scenery and boasts unrivalled views along the coast. Walk through forests and fields of wildflowers, olive groves and vineyards, past ancient stone huts and beside sheer walls of granite. Glimpse local farmers tending their crops by hoe and elbow grease, herds of goats feeding beside the trail beside their shepherds, and teams of workmen commuting by mule. The trail ends in picturesque Positano, where there will be ample time to explore and maybe take a dip in the sea. Return to Minori by ferry and bus. With tonight your last night as a group, it’s a good idea to gather your fellow travellers and head out for a feast to celebrate the end of this Italian adventure.

Day 8 Amalfi Coast

There are no activities planned for the final day and you are able to depart the accommodation at any time. As there is so much to do along the Amalfi Coast, you may want to consider extending your stay here. If you need to organise additional accommodation, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time.

Day 1 In Transit to Program In Flight

Day 2 Arrive Montecatini, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner Montecatini Terme

Hotel check-in from 2:00 p.m. Walking less than 1 mile.

After checking-in at the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation session. 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. We will review COVID-19 protocols and will adhere to local COVID-19 guidelines and requirements throughout the program. This is a Road Scholar Grandparent program. Grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren at all times. If/when separate age group activities are conducted concurrently, program staff will supervise. Minors are never to be left unsupervised. Except breakfast, meals will be plated (each dish served to guests by a 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. Transportation will primarily be provided by motorcoach unless noted otherwise. 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. Next, we will set out for a neighborhood walk with our Group Leader to locate ATMs, pharmacies, grocery stores, restaurants, etc. Returning to the hotel, we’ll gather for a Welcome Reception to become acquainted with our Group Leader and fellow Road Scholars.

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

At the hotel restaurant.

Day 3 Italian Class, Montecatini Terme, Funicular to M. Alto Montecatini Terme

Getting on/off a funicular. Walking up to 4 miles throughout the day, extended periods of standing; cobblestones, mostly level urban stone streets/sidewalks, unavoidable steps/stairs.

Impariamo l’italiano! We will gather in the meeting space for a general introduction to Italian. We’ll learn how to greet people, order a coffee, ask directions, and more from our Group Leaders. We’ll then walk across the street for an expert-led field trip to the Terme di Tettuccio complex, the center of Montecatini Terme. These thermal springs have been popular since Roman times and gained even more popularity during the 15th century when Medici Grand Dukes restored the buildings and grounds.

Next, we’ll set out on an expert-led walking field trip through Montecatini Terme to learn more about this popular Tuscan resort town. After some time for independent exploration, we’ll take the funicular up to the hillside town of Montecatini Alto.

We will take the funicular back down into Montecatini Terme. Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.

At the hotel.

At a restaurant in Montecatini Terme.

At a restaurant in Montecatini Alto.

Day 4 Welcome to Tuscany Lecture, Train to Pisa, Leaning Tower Montecatini Terme

Getting in/out of mini-van; on/off a train; riding about 35 miles, approximately 1.25 hours riding time, Walking up to 5 miles throughout the day, extended periods of standing; cobblestones, mostly level urban stone streets/sidewalks, unavoidable steps/stairs. No elevator at Leaning Tower; 269 steps to top.

In the hotel meeting room, we’ll be joined by a local expert for a lecture about the region of Tuscany. We’ll then board a minivan and ride to a pizzeria near the train station.

We will walk to the nearby Montecatini Terme station and board a train to Pisa. Upon arrival, it’s a short walk to the Piazza dei Miracoli, also known as Piazza del Duomo, where we will meet a local expert who will lead our field trip to explore the Duomo and baptistery. The lacy white marble tiers of the buildings contrast with the wide green lawns, 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. The city’s wealth is demonstrated by the civic and religious pride of its inhabitants who funded such a grandiose construction — that began to lean shortly after it was constructed in the 12th century! For those with energy and stamina, we’ll climb 269 steps to the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. We’ll return to Montecatini Terme by train after our field trip.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

At a pizzeria near the train station in Montecatini Terme.

This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like in Montecatini Terme. Please refer to the list of restaurants in the program materials. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Day 5 Vinci Field Trip, Museo Leonardiano, Agriturismo Montecatini Terme

Getting in/out of vans; driving about 35 miles throughout the day, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 5 miles throughout the day, extended periods of standing; dirt pathways, cobblestones, mostly level urban stone streets and sidewalks, unavoidable steps/stairs.

We will set out on a field trip to Vinci, birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, the incomparable Renaissance artist, architect, engineer, mathematician, and scientist. We will begin at the museum where there are models of Leonardo’s inventions based on his drawings, then walk about 1.25 miles on the “strada verde” — green route — an ancient path of olive groves lining the road to reach Vinci. We will then enjoy an expert-led visit to the house where he was born in Anchiano.

Next, we’ll ride a few miles west of Vinci to an agriturismo, where we’ll explore the farm and vineyards. The host will explain the production of extra virgin olive oil and wine and will also lead a cooking demonstration for an illustrated presentation about rustic cooking in Tuscany. We will assist in making the meal.

Riding back the hotel in Montecatini Terme, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.

At the hotel.

At a restaurant in Vinci.

At the agriturismo.

Day 6 Florence Full Day Field Trip, Museo Galileo, Palazzo Vecchio Montecatini Terme

Getting on/off a shuttle bus, on/off a train; riding about 60 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours on the train. Walking up to 6 miles throughout the day, extended periods of standing; cobblestones and mostly level urban stone streets/sidewalks, unavoidable steps/stairs. Elevator available at Museo Galileo.

We will take a shuttle from the hotel to the station and catch a train to Florence for the day. Science aficionados in particular will enjoy a field trip to the Museo Galileo where a docent will our explorations. We’ll see centuries-old astrolabes, globes, and scientific instruments. A highlight of the collection is the telescope Galileo Galilei used to observe the heavens. Detailed story boards describe the objects’ stories and how they work.

At two gelaterie in the historic center, we will taste one of Italy's most famous desserts. Gelato is similar to American-style ice cream, but milk is used instead of cream and the final product has a smoother texture. After a couple of robust samples en route to our cooking school, a local artisan will show us how gelato is made using seasonal flavors and local ingredients. We will have some time for independent exploration, then walk back to Santa Maria Novella station for the train ride back to Montecatini Terme.

Returning to the hotel, the remainder of the evening is at leisure.

At the hotel.

At a restaurant in the Piazza della Signoria.

On your own to enjoy what you like.

Day 7 Market Day, Train to Pistoia, Underground Pistoia, Free Time Montecatini Terme

Getting on/off a shuttle bus, on/off a train; riding about 20 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours on the train. Walking up to 5 miles throughout the day, extended periods of standing; cobblestones and mostly level urban stone streets/sidewalks. Unavoidable steps/stairs.

In Montecatini Terme, Thursday is Market Day! We will walk with our Group Leader to the local market to see vendors from all around the area setting up their carts along the streets with leather goods, pottery, scarves, souvenirs, etc. Stalls also display and sell fresh cuts of meat, salumi, cheeses, breads, and other delectable foods. From the market, we will walk to the station, board a train, and ride to the nearby town of Pistoia. Upon arrival, we will walk to the entrance of Pistoia Underground, where we’ll learn from a local historian about medicine, city planning, architecture, and daily life during the Middle Ages. At the Museo dello Spedale del Ceppo, we will see and learn about building’s role as a hospital from 1277 until 2013. We will also see the fascinating late-18th-century anatomical theater.

We will take the train back from Pistoia to Montecatini, where the remainder of the afternoon is free. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

At leisure.

At the hotel.

At a restaurant in Pistoia.

On your own to enjoy what you like in Montecatini Terme.

Day 8 Lucca Full Day Field Trip, Biking on the Walls, Free Time Montecatini Terme

Getting on/off a train; riding about 40 miles throughout the day, approximately 1 hour on the train. Walking up to 5 miles throughout the day, extended periods of standing; cobblestones, mostly level urban stone streets/sidewalks; unavoidable steps/stairs without handrails. Biking about 4 miles; vehicle-free, paved pathway.

We’ll catch a morning train to the town of Lucca, where we will meet a local expert at the station who will lead us on a pleasant walking field trip along a portion of the surrounding defensive walls. Along the way, we’ll learn how the walls were built 500 years ago to defend the city from invaders and how they now serve a peaceful purpose as a favorite walking path for walkers and recreational bike riders. The high walls provide a wonderful panorama of the city.

We will regroup at an announced time and place, then bike atop the 16-foot medieval walls to get another perspective of this unique town. 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 2.6 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. We’ll return to the station in Lucca to catch a train back to Montecatini where a shuttle will be waiting to take us back to the hotel. The remainder of the afternoon will be free for independent exploration to see and do what interests each of us most.

At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.

At the hotel.

On your own to enjoy what you like in Lucca.

At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.

Day 9 Program Concludes, In Transit From Program In Flight

Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.

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!

At the hotel depending on departure times; for those with early departures, the hotel will prepare a bagged breakfast. This concludes our program.