16 day tours of italy

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16 Day Italy Itinerary full of Luxury & Adventure

We totally fell in love with Italy!  We enjoyed every destination, meal, person and sight we experienced.  One of the hardest parts when planning a trip to Italy was narrowing down the destinations.  There is A LOT to see and it can become a logistics nightmare.  We wanted to see several areas without feeling like we had to repack our bags each day.  Check out our 16 day Italy itinerary full of luxury and adventure for a glimpse into how we spent our time.  There were several areas that we had to put on the list for one of our future Italy vacations.  Our Italy itinerary included Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Sardinia, and Rome! Check out our pointers for planning a trip to Italy.

“One of the great joys of traveling through Italy is discovering firsthand that it is, indeed, a dream destination.” ~Debra Livenson

Day 1-2: Venice

In all honesty, we had read mixed reviews on Venice.  We knew it was an area we wanted to see during our tour of Italy and form our own opinion.  We decided it would be a good idea to start here so we didn’t compare it to other areas of the country.   After experiencing Venice, we would highly recommend coming here first as well.  If you are questioning how many days in Venice, in our opinion two is enough. While it’s an interesting place, we found it to be extremely touristy and crowded due to the number of cruise ships that visit each day. Check out all the details of our Venice itinerary for 2 days . 

Getting There :  We flew from Houston, TX to Venice, Italy on Delta Airlines with a stop in Atlanta, GA.  Upon our arrival, we booked a private water taxi from Venice Link .   Splurging for the private transfer was worth every penny.  After the long international flight, it was nice to have a direct ride to our hotel in Venice.  The public water taxis were quite large and packed with people so we were certainly happy with our private ride.

The Venice Link Private Water Taxi

  Venice Hotel : Savoia & Jolanda – Highly recommend, great location!   Savoia & Jolanda hotel was within walking distance of many of the main attractions .  The rooms are a bit dark but spacious and well decorated.

One of the great perks of this property is the included breakfast buffet.  They have a gorgeous patio with water views while you eat.  It was the highlight of each morning!

Recommended Activities in Venice :

Doge’s Palace with Secret Passages   We scheduled a couple tours with Walks of Italy for our 2 days in Venice.  If you’ve followed our travels on this blog, you know we prefer small group or private tours versus massive groups.  As a bonus, Walks of Italy offers the secret passages areas of the palace in addition to the main tour.  We felt so exclusive going through secret areas that the majority of visitors do not have access to when visiting Doge’s Palace!

Canal cruise with a visit to San Giorgio Maggiore Island scheduled with Walks of Italy.  The great part of this tour is the ability to climb the bell tower and get some gorgeous aerial views of the Venice canals!

Standing on the boat during our canal cruise

Venice view from the bell tower

St. Marks Basilica – While you can pay to take a tour of this gorgeous place, we decided to attend mass and therefore we had the opportunity to sit and admire the inside without paying a fee!

Private Gondola Ride – We had heard mixed reviews of these rides.  They are quite pricey but the good thing is that you can negotiate a rate with one of the gondoliers that are open.  We don’t recommend booking this in advance as it’s easy to get one when you have free time in your day.  It’s a complete tourist trap but we had to do it!

Istituto Veneto di Scienze Lettere ed Arti – This small museum took us about an hour to walk through.  It provided us with a short break from the hot summer sun while admiring some gorgeous art pieces.  Nice quick activity!

Where to Eat in Venice, Italy:

Florian Cafe – Great live music and piazza views.  We sat here and enjoyed tea time with some fantastic bites.

Cantina do Mori – Great place for drinks and bites!  It is said to be one of the oldest bars in Venice dating back to the early 1400’s. It’s a small space but offers quite a variety.  Make time to spend some time here during your Venice vacation.

Don’t miss a trip to Harry’s Bar which is home to the Bellini! Get more tips in this Venice Travel Guide .

Day 3-6: Tuscany

The Tuscany region is quite large therefore it was hard to pick a spot as a base for the best Italy itinerary.  We ended up planning our trip around our Tuscany accommodation. What better place to stay while traveling in Tuscany than in a castle?!?

Getting There: From Venice, we took the train to Florence.  The train system is quite easy to understand and very efficient.  We had no problems at all.  Once you arrive at the train station, getting to the rental car pickup location was a bit of an issue for us.  We had to take a taxi as it is a bit outside the main station area.  Once in our rental car, we had about an hour or so trip to our accommodation. One of the best ways to see Italy is to self-drive through the Tuscan countryside.

Tuscany Accommodation : One of my visions of our Tuscany vacation was to be in a castle!  We found the perfect B&B at Castello delle Serre!  It is family owned and they have turned this historic castle into such unique accommodations.  There are several rooms in the main castle building but we decided to book the tower suite.  It’s larger, more private and offers a terrace at the top.  It was such a dream to stay here.  The family was extremely friendly, served amazing breakfast each morning and were great with helping to plan our day.  You can read more about our Tuscany castle accomodations  here .

Recommended Activities :

Winery Tours of Tuscany : Obviously one of the biggest draws to the region are the wineries.  We hired a private guide for the day from Tours around Tuscany and visited both the Montalcino and Montepulciano regions.  Our guide was fantastic and offered a vast array of information about the history of the region.  It was a fabulous day!  You can read more about our wine experience here .

Cooking Class : What better spot to learn about authentic Italian cooking than in Tuscany!  We booked Chef Ryan for a private class for the day and prepared several courses for a fantastic experience.  Chef Ryan welcomed us into his home and we had a lovely afternoon getting to know his family while learning our way around the kitchen!  It was a real highlight of our 2 weeks in Italy!  Check out the full Tuscany cooking class experience here .

Notable Wine & Drink

Tenuta di Arceno – One of the prettiest wineries we visited during our time in Tuscany.

Ristorante Podere Le Vigne – Gorgeous outdoor patio with winery views. Amazing gnocchi – some of the best of our trip!

Osteria La Porta – Don’t miss the prosciutto with truffles!  They also have a gorgeous patio for outside dining with winery views.

Day 7-8: Florence

Honestly, we almost skipped Florence.  We’re not that into art and thought we could gain 2 days by skipping.  We used Florence as a base to get to Tuscany and decided to visit Florence for 2 days and dedicated this part of our Italy itinerary to exploring the area. We were so glad we did!  Check out how we underestimated this great city here .

Travel to Florence :  We had a quick Italy road trip from Tuscany back to Florence.  We decided to return the rental car as we had read the city can be confusing to drive there .  It was a really great decision as it was easy to navigate by foot.

Florence Hotel :  We booked a room in the boutique Florence hotel Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni 1 .  It is a historic building and the rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated.  It was one of our favorite hotels during our 16 day Italy itinerary !  Not only does this property knock it out of the park in setting and location, it elevates itself with the incredible breakfast and rooftop terraces.  They offer gorgeous views of the city while you dine or enjoy your cocktail from this luxury Florence hotel!

Recommended Activities in Florence :

We spent most of our time here just walking and taking in the beautiful sites during our 2 days in Florence.  The narrow streets were filled with markets and shops.  The main square,  Piazza della Signoria , was full of activity and offered a sculpture garden as well.  It was awesome!

We also decided to hire a professional photographer while in Florence as we rarely capture photos of just the two of us.  It was so fun to spend the morning capturing us and this beautiful city.

Spend some time at  Piazzale Michelangelo .  This is an area that offers incredible views of the city below.  There are areas to sit while enjoying the view from the top and that’s just what we did! Overall a relaxing and fun 2 day Florence itinerary.

Days 9-11: Sardinia

Travel to Sardinia :  We flew from Florence to Alghero via Air Italia.  It was a smooth flight but the worst part was the LONG line to pick up our rental car at Auto Europe.  It’s a small airport and several flights arrived at the same time so plan on spending at least an hour to get your car.  A car here is a must and the perfect spot for an Italy road trip itinerary!

Sardinia Hotel :  We continued our historic property stay by booking a few nights at Villa Las Tronas .  It’s a historic property with gorgeous water views.  We had a few complaints but overall would stay here again.  You can check out the pros & cons here .

Recommended Sardinia Activities :

One of the big draws for us to include Sardinia during our Italy trip itinerary was to explore the beaches.  It was fantastic to relax and we understand why it’s one of the best places to vacation in Italy!  We would just drive until we would pass a “Spiagga” sign and then pull over.  We really found some secluded spots!  You can check out the full list here but our favorite Sardinia beach was La Pelosa Beach !

Neptune’s Grotto – There is a grotto that is accessible both by boat or 650 step walk down a cliff.  We would highly recommend a walk down the cliff to get to the grotto as one of the top activities in Sardina.  Inside you will get a guided tour to see the cave formations.  It’s a really nice way to spend the afternoon filled with incredible views!

Sardinia Boat Tour – Also you must get on a boat and explore this area from the water !  We booked a day trip aboard the Andrea Jensen . We had a fabulous day snorkeling, sailing and swimming the coves.  Additionally, they serve an incredible lunch aboard to really elevate the trip.

Old Town Alghero – Lastly the main town is about a 15-minute walk from the hotel.  We went there each evening due to the variety of restaurants in Alghero along the water.  No cars are allowed in the main square, therefore it was a nice leisurely place to grab a drink, eat and shop each evening .

Pork is a very popular dish in Sardinia.  There are so many Alghero restaurant options along the strip that we really couldn’t choose which to recommend.  All of the options were wonderful and you really can’t go wrong.  You may have to be prepared for a wait especially if you want to dine outside but with the fabulous setting and a glass of Prosecco in hand, the wait will pass by quickly! Overall we had a 3 day Sardinia itinerary filled with beaches, activities, and food!

Day 12-16: Rome

We decided to end our trip with a 5-day itinerary in Rome as there were several flight options to get back to the states from here.   There was so much to do in Rome that we could have easily spent double the amount of time here.  We really had to be efficient and selective with our bookings.

Travel to Rome :  We flew on Air Italia from Alghero to Rome.  Our hotel offered to book a private transfer from the airport to the hotel which worked out really nicely!

Rome Hotel :  We stayed at Hotel Forty-Seven .  While it’s not historic like the other properties we visited during this trip, it was still quite lovely.  The rooms were plainer than we had experienced but spacious and comfortable.  In addition, the location was within walking distance to many of the main attractions .  Plus, Hotel Forty-Seven offers great views of the city from the gorgeous rooftop deck.  See our full pros & cons here .

Recommended Rome Activities :

We booked 3 semi-private tours with Liv Italy and we highly recommend them.  They offer no more than six people in the group making a very intimate experience for your Rome sightseeing tours .  The guides were friendly and highly knowledgeable which was the perfect fit for us!

Rome Walking Tour – We were able to visit the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the Parthenon.

Vatican Tour with Early Entrance – In our opinion, a small group and early entrance are essential when visiting the Vatican.  It was the most crowded place we visited the entire 16 days in Italy.

Colosseum and Underground – We had an exclusive tour including the underground areas of the Colosseum !  Such a fun way to see a bit more than the average traveler.

Rome Vespa Tour – One of the highlights of our trip to Rome was booking this private Vespa tour with Scooteroma .  We had such a fun afternoon zipping around on the back of a scooter while taking in many sights around the city!  Our guides were fun and friendly.  In addition to the attractions, the tour is also food-focused, therefore, you get to stop at several areas for local bites to eat!  Check out all the fun here !

See an Opera – During the summer months, they show operas at the  Baths of Caracalla .  It’s such an interesting setting to be in Rome, seeing an opera amongst the ancient ruins!  Highly recommend if there is a show while you are there.

Lastly, make sure you plan time to just walk around the city in your Rome itinerary.  There are so many pizzas each with its own character.  It’s a lovely space to grab a coffee and enjoy the setting!

Notable Rome Restaurants :

We could not get enough of the food here!  So many amazing spots.   Prosciutto, pasta, and wine were a staple for us at both lunch and dinner !

Roscioli – It’s located in the heart of Rome and is a deli inspired restaurant.  It serves several types of meat and cheeses and is the perfect spot for lunch!

Flavio al Velavevodetto – One of our favorites.  Gorgeous outdoor seating and incredible pasta!  A perfect spot for a romantic dinner in Rome.

Spirito di Vino – You must visit the wine cellar here!  It’s one of the most historic wine cellars in Rome.  Not only is their selections of wine amazing but the food is spectacular as well!

Panella – A local bakery with amazing espresso!  Definitely worth a visit.

Trapizzino – This is Rome’s street food.  It’s their version of a meatball sandwich and it’s incredible!  Many varieties of meats to choose from here.  They are looking into expanding to the USA ergo there could be a local option in a city near you soon!

Overall we had an incredible 2 weeks Italy itinerary and can’t wait until we have the opportunity to return.  There were so many other regions we could have visited but felt we had a nice balance of maximizing our time while seeing as much as possible in our 16 day Italy itinerary .  Hope this helps you narrow down your options and is an Italy trip planner resource to help you plan a vaction filled with luxury and adventure!

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Unique perspective of abel tasman national park from the air, 16 comments.

Love this list! We’ve spent a lot of time in Italy but Sardinia is still a spot I have yet to see. Venice with my Italian Husband was a treat, highly recommend the public transit vaporetti as a budget alternative to the gondola.

You guys packed so much into your 2 weeks…i’d be needing a holiday after all of that to catch my breath! I am very jealous…Italy is somewhere i have always wanted to visit.

This is quite a trip! I think the combination of the classics and a lesser visited place like Sardinia is genius. Those beaches in there are gorgeous! I like the idea of staying in a castle. I would like to do that. #WeekendWanderlust

Definately want to visit the palace with secret passages! It’s amazing to see how much thought went into their systems.

Great list! I love Italy. I think I could easily live there. Great pics and now I’m hungry! All of the food looked so good.

There really is so much to see in Italy! You’ve covered a lot of great destinations. I visited Italy many years ago and have been to a lot of the places on your list. I would have liked to visit Sardinia though! I’m going back to Italy next month, but sadly only for a few days. I’ll be visiting the small town of Bergamo! I’m excited to see a place that not many tourists do 🙂

I’ve always wanted to visit Italy. It must have been hard to choose which cities to visit in 2 weeks. Thank you for sharing this.

Neat idea for a blog post, to give a summary overview, and then people can click on the individual parts for more detail. Good thing you kept the food tips in, though. You seem to have done so many small tours in each place—that must have been a lot of pre-trip research to get through to arrange all that.

I can’t wait to visit Italy and you just made me THAT much more excited! Your photos are amazing. Looks like SUCH a good time 🙂

Some amazing places on this list. I’m glad for you that you included Florence; it might be busy and touristy but it’s one of the most beautiful cities I’ve seen. We are off to Rome in about 5 weeks and I’m super excited!

What an amazingly detailed post – I feel like I could just copy this and fall in love with Italy. Haven’t been yet, but I will go someday…probably in the shoulder season to avoid some of those crowds! I like how you did Venice first – I think we’ve all heard the mixed reviews and would be tempted to skip it.

16 luxurious days in Italy?! Yes, please! Your photos are absolutely gorgeous and capture one of my favorite countries so well. I definitely want to take a cooking class next time I’m there!

Maybe it’s an Italian thing… I’ve stayed in so many dark rooms, ha. But that hotel still looks lovely in Venice! I’d love to spend 16 days in Italy… next year. Thanks for all the ideas 🙂

I absolutely loved Rome. It was the first place I visited in Italy. Florence wasn’t my favorite but I’m dying to go back and visit Venice. Thank you for all of the great suggestions!

Love Italy and I love how you guys saw so much and had some amazing experiences in two weeks. What an unforgettable trip. you stayed at some amazing places. I love Venice but I think it has to do with visiting it in November twice where the crowds are a bit lesser . Thank you for the introduction to Sardinia! Need to add it to the list!

Wish I could’ve seen this before we traveled to Italy. We spent the same no. of days but I was with my mom so I wasn’t able to do that much adventure as planned like hiking in Cinque Terre and renting a Vespa in Tuscany.

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Europe , Itineraries

16-Day Itinerary Italy for first timers (Slow travel)

• Day 1 – Arrive in Rome, Flea Market, Colosseum,
• Day 2 – Piazza Navona, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Ancient Rome Tour (via Viator), St. Peter’s Basilica
• Day 3 – Vatican Museum, Colosseum again, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill
• Day 4 – Attend Papal Mass, Drive to Assisi
• Day 5 – Assisi Walking Tour, Drive to Florence
• Day 6 – Florence – Accademia, Uffizi Gallery, Duomo Museum, View Florence from St. Michael Piazza
• Day 7 – Volterra
• Day 8 – Pisa, Cinque Terre
• Day 9 – Tour Cinque Terre
• Day 10 – Drive to Modena, Visit Ferrari Museum
• Day 11 – Supposed to visit Pushstart (Ferrari factory) but found out its exclusively for Ferrari owners, we tried Modena food instead

Day 12 – Venice

• Day 13 – Milan
• Day 14 & 15 – Lake Como
• Day 16 – Leave for Luzern Switzerland

Day 1 – Arrival in Rome – Porta Portese and Colosseum

We arrived in Rome early on a Sunday morning. Arriving on a weekend is a good thing because you get to experience weekend flea markets and if you’re lucky, there can be festivals. Upon arrival, we took the train from the airport to the closest station where we are staying then took an Uber ride to our Airbnb rental. If it was just 2 of us, we could’ve taken the bus, but there are 4 of us and my mom brought a large luggage so Uber is our best choice. (Tip: If you’re traveling in a group of 4 or more, it might be cheaper to just get an Uber from the airport straight to the place where you’re going).

After resting and taking a shower, we head out to Porta Portese , a famous flea market in Rome. If you like buying leather stuff, you can visit this place. We went here around lunch time and got a sandwich here for lunch. When we got there, most of the shops are already packing up so I think the best time to go is early morning. I got a good deal on a nice leather jacket though 🙂

After Porta Portese, we head out to the Colosseum area to check out the place. Based from research, the queue going in is going to be too long. We booked a viator tour of this so we could skip the line so we didn’t enter and just walked around the area. Thre is a spot where you can have a nice view of the Palantine Hill. Checkout the photos below:

Day 2 – Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Ancient Rome Tour

Spanish steps.

In the ideal world, you’ll arrive at around 8-9am at the Spanish Steps. In reality, we reached the place at half past 10. The spanish steps is just a few minutes walk from the Spagna terminal. Its quite crowded and honestly, nothing too magnificent to see there. We just walked around here quickly since we booked an Ancient Rome Tour via Viator.

Ancient Rome Tour Via Viator

Our tour group is at 1pm. We arrived like 5 minutes past 1pm because we had a hard time finding the meeting place. Turns out, the group have left already and we can’t join in the middle of the tour. We requested to be waitlisted and see if we can join the next group at 3pm. While waiting, we had real Italian pizza at the resto nearby the waiting area. The wait was unsuccessful and we just decided to rebook for the following day and just pay rebooking fee. The rest of the afternoon was planned for “Dolce Vita” – the Italian sweet life, which is kinda ironic because of this bitter Viator experience haha!

The Dolce Vita Walk

The Dolce Vita Walk is supposed to start from the Trevi Fountain to Piazza Navona. But we had to end it at the Pantheon because I needed to take the St. Peter’s Basilica sunset shot – saw the beaufitul sunset view while we are in the taxi heading home from Colosseo during the first day.

So our first stop after that failed viator tour was Trevi Fountain – at 3:30pm – it is so crowded, I wonder if if is less crowded in the morning. You can barely take a good shot of the fountain. We opted to stay at a chapel nearby instead and sat on its steps and just people watch while having gelato.

After Trevi fountain, we walked to Pantheon where there are nice shops and a famous coffee shop called “Caffe Tazza D’Oro”. We bought coffee beans here to bring back home. Its nice to walk around Pantheon, there are lots of shop and you can even find the original store that made Pinoccho wooden dolls.

From Pantheon, we decided to just walk to St. Peter’s Basilica to see more of the sights. While walking, we chanced upon Castel Sant’ Angelo. Since we were rushing for the sunset shot, we just took a photo of this place and continued walking to Vatican.

We spent about 2 hours in this area just appreciating its beauty from sunset until it was already dark. There are benches in the Piazza where you can rest so me and Tina rested here while my mom and our friend went to the stores to buy rosaries.

Piazza Navona

Despite how tired we were, we decided to head to Piazza Navona and have our dinner there. The restaurants there, however, are quite expensive so upon taking photos of the place, we walked a few meters more to find more affordable restaurants.

Day 3 – Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum again, Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill

Its our 3rd day in Rome and we booked the Vatican Museum ticket that allows us to skip the line. Unfortunately, there was a problem with the Vatican’s security system during the day we were there so we still had to queue for about an hour or so.

The Vatican museum is so Grand and full of details, not something that you would expect from a church in my opinion. Since we are an hour behind our schedule, we had to rush viewing because we have a tour scheduled for the day (this is the tour we rebooked from the previous day). The highlight of this morning trip is the Sistine Chapel. You are not allowed to be noisy and to take photos here. Because of that policy, you can really appreciate the beauty of Michaelangelo’s work.

Here are some photos inside the Vatican museum:

The Sistine Chapel

The highlight of this museum is Sistine Chapel’s ceiling art by Michaelangelo. Its like 3D art. The characters look alive, like a hologram or something. If you are getting a Vatican Museum ticket, make sure you have the pass to Sistine Chapel.

Colosseum (Finally!), Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Capitoline Hill

Yes, finally, we are at the Colosseum. Unfortunately, we were again left by the tour group. We decided to just queue for the ticket and guess what, the line was not that long as what we had expected it to be. We were in queue for just about 15 minutes.

We spent about 1.5 hours walking inside the Colosseo. After that, we walked to Palantine Hill and queued for another ticket. I liked it better than the Colosseum.

After our self-tour of the Ancient Rome, we headed back to the Vatican to get our tickets for next day’s Papal mass.

Day 4 – Papal Mass and Drive to Assisi

We left the apartment early for the papal mass. We wanted to get a good location so we can see the pope. Upon arrival, the queue going inside where the chairs are, were already too long and it seems like the Pope is already doing his rounds. So we went to the side and looked for a baby. Tip: Go near a baby, chances are the Pope will stop there to get the baby which is what happened to us.

After the mass, we checkout of the apartment and went to the car rental. We probably spent around 1.5 hours waiting for the car so it messed up our schedule. We had lunch on the way and arrived in Assisi almost sunset.

Day 5 – Assisi

Since we arrived late the previous day, we were not able to tour the place as shops close early. Assisi is just a small town, you can walk around it in a day. We woke up early to catch the sunrise.

We were supposed to visit St. Claire’s too but it was closed. We left Assisi around 1pm to drive to Florence.

Day 6 – Florence

We had breakfast in our AirBNB and met a college friend who was also in Florence for vacation.

We were supposed to go to Uffizzi but somehow our research got messed up (luckily) so we went to the less crowded Palatine Gallery instead

After hours in the museum, we walked out and had lunch at a nearby restaurant. After lunch, we decided to walk to our next destination which is the Academia where you can see the famous David scuplture. On the way to the museum (which is also close to the duomo), there are a lot of Italian Jewelry shops. The shop we went into had a Filipina sales lady so there was instant connection and my mom got to buy a necklace and a pair of earrings.

Around the Duomo are nice leather stores where you can buy nice Italian leather bags and shoes. We weren’t able to buy since we still have days ahead of us and it will be a pain to bring items you shop for with you while you travel.

Before sunset, we rushed to Piazzale Michelangelo to enjoy the view of Florence during sunset.

Day 7 – Tuscan Country

The very next day, we went out early to drive around the country side of Tuscany. We drove to Volterra for a daytrip and passed lots of nice valleys on the way.

Volterra is a mountain top walled city and is recognized to be populated by vampires.

Day 8 – Pisa

We had on for a day trip to Pisa via Train as a stop on our way to Cinque Terre. There are left luggage shops in the area so you can just store your luggage at the train station and explore the city without lugging them around.

From the train station, you can just walk to the leaning tower of Pisa and pass by a small town with lots of nice shops.

Day 9 – Cinque Terre

Cinque Terre if translated to English means 5 Towns. Its made up of 5 towns along the coast line. We stayed in its most beautiful town, Vernazza. We also visited the town of Manarola.

Day 10 – 11 Modena

Day 10, we leave Cinque Terre for Modena where our first day was planned for rest and laundry. We rented a car and drove from La Spezia (main station to Cinque Terre). Modena is known for fast cars. This is where you can rent and drive a Ferrari for 15 minutes. We’ve also visited the Ferrari Museum and had lunch at Franceschetta 58, co-owned by a 3-star Michelin star chef Chef Massimo Bottura. Chef Bottura also owns Modena’s most famous Michelin starred restaurant, Osteria Francescana.

Note: You have to make advance reservations to both Restaurants.

We left Modena early to head on to Venice via train. Around Venice, you’ll need to ride boats to get around and walk a lot. We decided to leave some of our luggage at the train station and just bring things we need for 2 days since we just stayed here for an overnight. Venice is one of the most picturesque city in Italy with its canals and gothic architecture.

Day 13- Milan

We arrived quite late in Milan the previous day and had to leave early the next day. But we were lucky enough to visit the following places: Corso Como, Duomo at Milan, and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. We were also able to see the Bosco Verticale but was not able to take a photo of it since we just saw it in passing while on our way to the car rental. Milan really is a shopping destination, but since we are not in Italy for shopping, a few hours spent in Milan is ok with us.

Day 14/15 – Lake Como

We drove from Milan to Como and stayed in Bellagio. Drove to Varenna the following day and took the boat that takes vehicles. We also took a boat tour and saw the James Bond house and Sir Richard Branson’s Lake Como villa. 

Day 16 – Como to Luzern, Switzerland

During our last day in Como, we drove back to Como for our 12noon bus ride to Luzern. We used FlixBus which only costs 9.9 euros per head from Como to Luzern. The ride was nice with beautiful Swiss scenery.

Conclusions

• The best month to visit Italy is October. We did not experience any rain during our travel and had a nice climate throughout our stay. Although Rome can be a bit hot during the afternoon.
• If I will change our itinerary, we’ll definitely stay longer in Cinque Terre and Florence. I’d definitely do the hike in Cinque Terre if my mom was not with us.
• Catholic or non-Catholic, you should attend the Paypal mass. Just seeing the Pope brings a different energy to you.
• Cities I’d go back to if I have the chance: Rome, Como, Florence, Venice, Cinque Terre
• Trains can be quite confusing

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Italy Small Group Tours

Discover new and exciting adventures in Italy with an unforgettable small group tour experience. Make time on your holiday to visit the Sistine Chapel, hike along the Dolomites , spend time in Florence and sample delicious seafood in Sicily .

250+ Italy small group tours with 2,248 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Local Living
• Christmas & New Year

Local Living Italy—Sorrento

I was a wonderful tour. We had a guided Tour in Naples, Pompei and a wonderful hike, garnished with interessting facts about history and the people living there. The family at the lemon farm was great and the food provided was really yummy. Luigi gave us a little tour around the property andbecame my personal hero, when he demonstrated how to make limoncello. Chiara was a very helpful and lovely guide. We already miss her :-)

• Food & Culinary
• Hiking & Trekking

Small Group Tour of Sicily: Highlights (Maximum 8 Guests)

The tour was wonderful. We had great guides, delicious food, and enjoyed the beauty of Sicily.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Small Group Sicily Food & Wine Tour (Maximum 8 Guests)

I was extremely impressed with everything surrounding the tour. This was the first tour I’ve taken after years of traveling. I enjoyed all of our guides and the knowledge they shared with us about the area we were in. The itinerary was very manageable and loved having enough time to explore on our own at each destination. The wineries we visited were beautiful and the wines were excellent.

• Coach / Bus

Sicilian Landscapes: Catania-Catania (8 days/7 nights)

Tiring. But then I AM 80 years old. We saw a lot and maybe more than was needed for survey I would have liked to have a little more down time at hotel much like our last trip to Venice with Gate 1. Would suggest touring till three where possible then or a break and something less Strenuous in evening if needed. Overall a great experience with a knowledgeable,pleasant Guide with good company. Al

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Coastal Walks

Amalfi Coast Walking - Agriturismo

This tour was so fun! The walks/hikes along the Amalfi coast were absolutely beautiful. The accommodations were clean and comfortable and a nice place to return to after a day of hiking and sightseeing. As a single traveler, it’s always a little scary to join a group of people I don’t know but our group meshed well together and we parted as new friends. Our guide was also really good - he was friendly, organized and managed our expectations really well. I ‘d definitely recommend this trip to anyone looking for a beautiful outdoor adventure.

Local Living Italy—Amalfi Coast

This was my first tour and I'm happy to say it exceeded all my expectations. It was exactly the type of holiday I wanted, hiking in beautiful scenery with good company and fabulous food. The food was absolutely fantastic - homemade and some homegrown. The hosts at our accommodations were wonderful and did so much extra for us. Our guide was a perfect for this trip, and she helped make a great itinerary even better. I am already planning my next tour and have recommended this to many people already.

Best of Italy

A great trip thoroughly enjoyed by me and my wife. May thanks to Massimo Mabelia for his excellent leadership.

Hiking in the Dolomites

Great value for money. Good tour guide. Excellent travel company. Some days the hiking was a bit light. Would have given it 5 stars if the hiking was every day. Also tourradar/intrepid could also consider providing a higher cost tour where we stay at different refuges every day. This will reduce the transportation constraints and time and increase the Dolomites amazing experience.

Best of Sicily - 8 Days (Small Group Tour)

I took the Best of Sicily Tour with TourRadar. We had a small group of 5. It was fantastic. We had a different tour guide each day but one. They were all very knowledgeable, well educated in their fields of study, and answered all our questions and more! They made sure that the restaurants were well aware of those of us with food allergies. Communication with TourRadar and Click Tours before and during the trip was easy and they responded immediately to any questions or concerns. I will use them again!

• Sightseeing

Deluxe Italian Escape with picturesque Cinque Terre

We had a great trip to Italy. Excellent communication while we were traveling. They really made us feel like they were with us every step of the way. Made things very easy so that we could just enjoy the experience.

Amalfi Coast Experience

Such an amazing experience. I did the Amalfi Coast tour and the whole trip was wonderful. I had Meaghan as a guide and she was incredible, not only extremely knowledgeable about all the sights and locations, but also the friendliest, nicest, person ever. It was my first time travelling overseas and I was pretty nervous as I was doing it by myself but being with Meaghan and the rest of my group honestly felt like being away with friends. I couldn’t recommend this enough.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Taste of Salento-Authentic Culinary Experience

A truly Salento experience. A variety of local food lovingly cooked & served together with various local wines. All carefully explained. A caring family approach to every aspect of the tour. This is a place for those looking for a relaxing time in a friendly country atmosphere & environment. Highly recommended especially but not exclusively for solo travellers.

Mamma Mia! - 13 Days/12 Nights

Amazing experience. All of the tour guides I had (Ned, Meaghan, Lorenzo and Amy) were so kind, helpful, knowledgable and FUN!!) I can’t thank them enough for making my first trip to Italy amazing. There were so many beautiful sights to see, delicious food and new friendships made. Thank you for the trip of a life time. Melissa C

Discover Matera and Taste of Salento Tour

Great Tours! A wonderful experience first in Salento at Emilio's Masseria and then in the enchanting Matera. We appreciated Emilio's excellent cuisine and his flexibility in organizing our tour days around the villages of Salento. The hotel booked for us in Matera was excellent, the cave room is an experience to live! Thanks for all the extra arrangements you made for us.

• Train & Rail

Italy By Train

One caveat: This tour was everything we wanted which was flexibility! The company had everything lined up and ready to go. Hotels selected worked out well and were tidy and clean. They were what we expected and in safe locations. As everything was going so smoothly we put our trust into the company. At one point we did need to call them as the trains were to go onto a strike the next day! But Tourradar stepped in, made sure that our rides were not affected and we were provided new tickets early that morning! We became so trusting of Tourradar that when we saw at the close of our trip that the time entourage to the airport was extremely limited, we believed this was due in case to the close proximity the hotel location they had selected for us in Rome was a short drive. Unfortunately that morning when the driver they had engaged to pick us up was 1/2 hour late, we were horrified to realize that Tourradar had only allots us two hours to drive 45 minutes to the airport, get through customs, get through security, check our bags and get on our flight! When we complained to the driver that he was late,he disagreeably grunted that we had plenty of time and then proceeded to drive at a very unsafe speed. He had driven the 45 minutenylroitn

Reviews of Small Group tours to Italy

Carla was very kind and helpful on our tour

This tour was the very best experience we have ever had traveling overseas. The booking process was seamless and painless. We felt especially grateful that while the group was limited to 8 participants, it was guaranteed to proceed with 2 people. As it ended up, our trip was just me and my husband and we felt so fortunate to have had the attention of the guides in such a personal way. The guides were all tremendous and I am confident that a larger group would have felt equally tended to. Special thanks to our guides and drivers: Denise, Orazio, Roberto, Carlos, Fabio and Massimo. Part of what was truly evident was how passionate they each were about Sicily and how many of them had connections with people at the restaurants, local businesses and attractions that we went to. We felt like we were in such good hands during the time we were with all of the guides. Each tour and activity was enlightening and educational. The included lunches and other meals were top notch. The opening night walking food and wine tour was a great way to kickoff the trip. There were some others who joined us for that portion, and it was most welcome. I don't think it would have been as much fun for the restaurants and enoteca to have just 2 people and the guide show up, and we knew the rest of the trip we would have individual attention. We felt pampered with our lunches on the Mafia tour, at the winery on Etna, in Marzememi and Agrigento. There was never a feeling of penny-pinching, more plush and like what we would have chosen for ourselves! The selected hotels were excellent! Centrally located, each with a fantastic breakfast spread and fun bar/restaurants. We would happily go back to any of them again and recommend them. We loved the scheduling each day and felt like we had a great mix of free time to explore on our own. Lastly, Graziana was out lifeline while we were traveling. She connected with us daily to check in, and to share the next days plan and name of our guide and where they would meet us. She made dinner reservations for us while we were there and provided recommendations that were helpful. We didn't encounter any issues, but felt that we had a ready ally if needed. Massimo also checked in midtrip, so we truly felt like everyone was interested in us having the best possible trip. I cannot wait to return to Sicily. We have recommended Sicily Activities to many people since our return and would book again in a heartbeat.

I can’t say enough good things about our experience in Sicily thanks to Mossimo and his team. Excellent, informative tour guides…Denise, Carlos, Antonio and Sem. The cooking class may have been the highlight, but all of the activities were fun and the pace of the tour, planned activities/free time mix was perfect. Will definitely recommend!

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The best 11 experiences to see venice in a day: a local's guide.

Custom Vacations

Looking for a custom vacation in italy, tours straight to your inbox, 16 day semi private grand tour of italy vacation package - from north to south.

Website: www.tours-italy.com

Email: [email protected]

Tour url: https://www.tours-italy.com/tour/14-day-semi-private-grand-tour-of-italy-vacation-package-from-north-to-south_227

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On Avventure Bellissime's Grand Tour of Italy vacation packages experience the great variety of attractions that Italy has to offer the intrepid traveller. From Ancient Rome to the breath-taking Amalfi Coast, Renaissance Florence & the idyllic Cinque Terre, cruising along the waterways of Venice, and then last but not least - relaxing at Lake Como

Prices from:

From: 4900.00

Duration: 16 days / 15 nights

Essential Information

Highlights & Includes

• Eleven-night’s stay in selected Hotels in Rome, Sorrento, Florence, Venice & Como with buffet breakfasts
• 3 nights accommodation in the Cinque Terre National Park on room only basis
• Nine-Private Transfers (see itinerary for details)
• Three-1st-Class reserved seating on Hi- Speed Euro-Star Trains between Rome, Naples, Florence & Venice
• 3-hour Small Group Vatican & Sistine Chapel Tour
• 3-hour Small Group Colosseum & Ancient Rome Tour
• 3-hour Small Group Essence of Rome walking Tour
• 3-hour Small Group Florence & David Walking Tour
• 1-hour Small Group Grand Canal Boat Tour
• 2-hour Small Group Venice & St. Marks Walking Tour
• PRIVATE - 35-minute Venice Gondola Ride - just for your party
• SKIP THE LINE TICKETS INCLUDED FOR ALL OUR SMALL GROUP TOURS!
• ALL DEPARTURE DATES GUARANTEED TO OPERATE AS SCHEDULED!
• Travel insurance
• Meals other than Breakfast

ROME – 3-nights with hotel included Day 1 - ROME Upon your arrival in Rome’s Airport you’ll be met by our representative for your private car transfer to your centrally located hotel in Rome, where you will stay in selected room(s) on bed ‘n breakfast basis for three-nights. Rest of the day at your leisure. Day 2 - ROME Today at 8.30 am take our 3-hrs Best of Rome walking tour featuring the main highlights of Rome and including a coffee break. At 2.00 pm, take our 3-hour Small Group Tour of the Vatican with one of our expert guides lasting three-hours and including tickets and reservations so you can avoid standing in line to see the Sistine Chapel & St. Peters Basilica as well as other must-see sights of the Vatican. *For some arrival dates the Small Group Ancient Rome & Vatican Tours in Rome will have to be taken on the same day Day 3 - ROME At 8.45 am, join our 3-hour Small Group Walking Tour of Ancient Rome. One of our expert guides will lead you on a fascinating stroll through the ruins of the Ancient Roman Forum, Palatine Hill & the Colosseum where you’ll skip the long lines to enjoy a full tour of the interior of Rome’s most famous landmark. SORRENTO – 3 nights with hotel included Day 4 - SORRENTO Take a private car transfer to Rome’s Termini Railway station to travel in reserved First-Class seats on a Hi-speed Euro-star train to Naples departing from Rome at 9.45 am, and arriving in Naples at 10.55 am (or nearest time available). At Naples Railway Station take a private car transfer to your centrally located hotel in Sorrento, where you will stay in selected room(s) on bed ‘n breakfast basis for two-nights. Rest of the day at your leisure. Day 5 - SORRENTO Day at your leisure in Sorrento Day 6 - SORRENTO Day at your leisure in Sorrento FLORENCE – 2-nights with hotel included Day 7 - FLORENCE After a leisurely breakfast, you will be met in the lobby of your Hotel by our representative for a private car transfer to Naples railway station from where you’ll travel in 1st Class reserved seats on a Hi-Speed Euro-star train to Florence, departing Naples at 10 am arriving into Florence at 12.51 pm (or the nearest time available). Upon arrival in Florence you’ll be met by our representative for your private car transfer to the centrally located Hotel where you will be staying for two-night in selected room(s) on a bed ‘n breakfast basis. Rest of the day at your leisure. Day 8 - FLORENCE At 10 am, join our Small Group Florence Walking Tour that will include all the must-see sights of the city. Then, with our skip the line tickets, enter the Accademia for an in-depth tour of Michelangelo’s David. Rest of the day at your leisure. CINQUE TERRE – 3 nights staying in the Cinque Terre National Park Day 9 – CINQUE TERRE Take a private car transfer to the Cinque Terre travelling in an air-conditioned Mercedes (or similar make) mini-van with an English-speaking driver to the village of Manarola in the Cinque Terre National Park. From the car park at Manarola, you will proceed directly to the check-in office and to your accommodation where you will be staying for two-nights in selected room or apartment ( depending on availability) on a ROOM-ONLY basis. Day 10 – CINQUE TERRE Day at your leisure on the Cinque Terre. Day 11 - CINQUE TERRE Day at your leisure on the Cinque Terre VENICE – 2-nights with hotel included Day 12 - VENICE In the morning you will take our private car transfer to the Florence train station to travel to your next destination – Venice. Travelling in First-class reserved seats on a hi-speed Euro-star train departing Florence at 11.25 am arriving in Venice at 13.35 pm (or the nearest time available). Upon arrival in Venice you’ll be met by our representative for your private water-taxi transfer to your centrally located hotel in Venice where you will be staying in selected room(s) on a bed ‘n breakfast basis for two nights. At 4 pm on our Small Group Grand Canal Boat Tour. The perfect introduction to the city of Venice as you cruise down the Grand Canal and some of the small canals in the hidden Venice with one of our licensed expert guides. Rest of the day at your leisure. Day 13- VENICE At 11.10 am join our Small Group Best of Venice Walking Tour to explore the environs of St. Marks Square with skip the line reservations to enter St. Marks Basilica and an in-depth tour of the interior of the church. Then, discover the enchanting hidden Venice as you stroll through the labyrinth of narrow alleyways and side canals with one of our expert guides. Today take also a private 35-minute Venice Gondola Ride to conclude your program of tours included in this vacation package. LAKE COMO – 2-nights with hotel included Day 14– LAKE COMO After a leisurely breakfast, take a private water-taxi transfer from your hotel to connect with a private direct car transfer from Venice to Lake Como. Travelling with an English-speaking driver in an air-conditioned Mercedes (or similar make) vehicle you will be taken directly to the centrally located Hotel in Como, where you will be staying in selected room(s) on bed n breakfast basis for two nights. Optional stopover(s) in Padua Verona Vicenza or Valpolicella region available at an extra cost. Rest of the day at your leisure. Day 16– LAKE COMO Enjoy a day at your leisure at Lake Como. Day 14 – LAKE COMO/END OF THE VACATION PACKAGE Your vacation package will conclude with a private car transfer in an air-conditioned Mercedes (or similar make) vehicle from Lake Como to Milan’s Malpensa Airport for your flight home.

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Customer tour reviews, leave us a review on, overall tour rating.

Based on 10 Reviews

The 14 day package gave us a snapshot of all of the highlights Italy had to offer and now we know exactly where we'll go when it's time to revisit!

Barbara Guerra

Excellent tour guides, very knowledge and kept the interest of the group, very efficient

Ms Debra Gates

We got to see a lot in 2 weeks - Rome, Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, Florence and Venice. It was the trip of a lifetime!

Grand Tour of Italy

4.7 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

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Immerse yourself in Italy’s history and beauty on a grand journey from Milan to Rome.

From wandering through medieval piazzas, to basking in postcard-worthy views of Naples and sampling antipasti in Umbria, a tour of Italy is a feast for the eyes—and your taste buds. Our enchanting two-week tour will guide you through the iconic cities you’ve been dreaming of, including Florence, Rome, and Venice, as well as the smaller treasures of Lake Como, Assisi, and Sorrento. Add a can’t-miss excursion and venture to Tuscan hill towns or the island jewel of Capri or use your downtime to experience the Italian art of dolce far niente—the sweetness of doing nothing. Not ready to leave? We wouldn’t want to, either. Take advantage of our two-day Rome extension—and take your time.

Your tour package includes

• 13 nights in handpicked hotels
• 13 breakfasts
• 6 dinners with beer or wine
• 7 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

• Villa Carlotta
• Roman Theater of Verona
• St. Mark’s Basilica
• Florence Duomo
• Assisi’s basilicas

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to Milan today.

Take a deep respiro, or breath—you’re in Italy! After arriving in Milan, you’ll transfer to your hotel in the Lake Como region. Relax and unpack before meeting your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner served with beer or wine.  

Start the day with a visit to Villa Carlotta, a lush botanical garden and art museum with striking, sparkling views of Lake Como. Built at the end of the 17th century by the marquises Clerici of Milan, it boasts fragrant rose gardens, splashy azalea bushes, and a pair of citrus-rimmed tunnels that date to the first occupants of the villa.

Afterward, you can choose to return to your hotel and unwind, or do some solo exploration. Alternatively, take to the glittering waters of Lake Como by adding a scenic cruise to your itinerary. You’ll float by some of Italy’s most sumptuous residences and gardens, and stop in the village of Bellagio for good measure.

Please note: From November through March, an ascent by funicular to the village of Brunate will replace the visit to Villa Carlotta—another breathtaking way to take in a panoramic view of Lake Como and the Alps

Lake Como Cruise & Bellagio

From $105 per person

It’s easy to fall in love in, and with, Verona and its maze of ancient Romanesque, Gothic, and Byzantine architecture tucked into the bends of the Adige River. No wonder it served as the backdrop for Romeo and Juliet . Join your Tour Director for a walk through this UNESCO-recognized city center.

• Imagine your own “Oh, Romeo, Romeo” moment with a visit to Casa di Giulietta, site of the famous balcony built in honor of Shakespeare’s tale of the ill-fated lovers.
• Soak in the history in the oldest square in Verona, Piazza delle Erbe, then enjoy some free time to explore the less crowded Gothic architecture of Piazza Dante—named for Italian poet Dante Alighieri of The Divine Comedy fame.
• Marvel at the grandeur of the 2,000-year-old Verona Arena, still in use today, whose pink and white stones have stood witness to gladiator shows, opera productions, and modern concerts.
• Enjoy free time to explore Verona on your own.

Continue to Venice where you’ll wind down the day with your fellow travelers over an included dinner served with beer or wine.

Surrender to the beauty of Venice’s labyrinthine canals, elegant bridges, and ornate Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Close your eyes and let the sound of lapping water and the passing gondolas soothe you, but not for too long—there’s so much to see! You’ll meet up with your local guide and explore the heart of Venice on foot and by vaporetto, or water taxi.

• Feel the energy of St. Mark’s Square, with its thriving cafes and sumptuous buildings, and marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica.
• See the Bridge of Sighs, named after the suggestion that prisoners would sigh at their final view of their beloved Venice through the window before being taken down to their cells in the New Prisons.
• Watch a Murano glass blowing demonstration where artisans keep the Venetian glasswork tradition alive. Observe as they skillfully use the distinctive millefiori technique—where intricate patterns are created by fusing together tiny glass rods.

Spend a free afternoon exploring Venice’s canals or add an excursion.

Please note: On some departures travelers may enter St. Mark's Basilica after the sightseeing tour based on ticket time availability.

Gondola Ride: Venice Canal Cruise

From $89 per person

Private Gondola Ride: Canal Cruise for Two

From $165 per person

Sulla strada per Firenze (that’s Italian for “on the way to Florence”), stop in Ferrara, a city center wrapped in defensive walls and surrounded by agricultural land. You’ll immerse yourself in the Renaissance splendor of the city center as you wander along its cobblestone streets. Take in the majestic Este Castle—watch out for the moats—and the Palazzo dei Diamanti, named for the 8,000 pink and white diamond-shaped blocks that cover its facade. 

End the day in Florence and linger with your fellow travelers over an included dinner, served with beer or wine.  

Florence was the beating heart of the Renaissance period and is the final resting place of luminaries such as Galileo, Michelangelo, and Machiavelli.

• Admire the architectural masterpiece of Florence Cathedral (Duomo) with its iconic dome, complemented by the Gothic beauty of Giotto’s Campanile—a freestanding bell tower adorned with colorful marble panels and detailed relief work.
• Wander across the iconic Ponte Vecchio, a medieval bridge lined with charming shops, offering stunning views of the Arno River.
• Explore the renowned Basilica of Santa Croce, a 13th-century Franciscan church containing magnificent frescoes depicting the life of St. Francis and the tombs of Michelangelo and Niccolo Machiavelli.

Enjoy free time in Florence or add an excursion.

Accademia Gallery

From $65 per person

The day is yours! Enjoy a free day in Florence or add an excursion to the Tuscan hill towns.  

Need inspiration for your day in town? Escape the crowds and wander through the Boboli Gardens, located behind the grand Pitti Palace. Explore the extensive greenery, hidden pathways, and stunning sculptures in this peaceful oasis. Dive into the vibrant Mercato di Sant’Ambrogio, serving locals for more than 100 years. Smaller than its more famous counterpart, the Mercato Centrale, you’ll get an intimate and authentic appreciation for how Florentines live. Browse through market stalls bursting with fresh produce, regional delicacies, and traditional wares. Join the locals for a coffee or a bite to eat at the market’s lively cafes. 

San Gimignano: Medieval Sights & Tuscan Flavors

From $115 per person

The route from Florence to Assisi takes you through the picturesque landscapes of central Italy. As you leave Florence behind, you’ll journey through rolling hills, vineyards, and idyllic Tuscan countryside dotted with cypress trees and quaint farmhouses.

• Visit the Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi  and admire the stunning frescoes by renowned artists, including Giotto, depicting the life of Saint Francis.
• Take in the serene and spiritual hilltop sights before ending the night with the included cena—dinner—served with beer or wine.

Please note: The Basilica of San Francesco d’Assisi is closed on Sundays for worship.

You’ll be so glad that you have more time in Assisi. Take time to lose yourself in the medieval streets of Assisi’s historic center, characterized by stone buildings, piazzas, and alleyways. Discover local artisan shops, cozy cafés, and hidden corners you’ll treasure. Looking for more guided exploration? Join the optional excursion to Perugia, brimming with Renaissance art and architecture, where you’ll enjoy an expert-led tour, Umbrian cuisine, and a visit to a cave wine cellar—with a tasting, of course.  

Perugia: City Highlights & Wine Tasting

On our way to the Sorrento peninsula, stop in Pompeii. Step into an ancient city frozen in time, where excavated ruins unveil the daily life and tragedy of a bygone civilization. Marvel at the well-preserved streets, houses, and public buildings that offer a glimpse into the life of ancient Romans.  

Continue to the Sorrento peninsula and sit down for an included dinner served with beer or wine. 

With the Sorrento peninsula as your stomping ground for the day, add an optional excursion to the resort island of Capri. Or, use this free day to journey to nearby Positano or Amalfi on your own for a hike up narrow, colorful streets or scenic coastal trails. Al fresco dining with a cliffside view is a must.  

Capri: A Day on the Iconic Island

From $125 per person

Step into Rome, a living tapestry of contradictions where ancient ruins coexist with a vibrant, modern spirit. Lose yourself in a chaotic symphony of honking Vespas, busy markets, and secret alleyways.

• Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Imperial Rome, where history unfolds around every corner.
• Experience the awe-inspiring Colosseum, the monumental amphitheater that echoes with the roar of ancient spectacles where you can walk in the footsteps of gladiators and feel the weight of history.
• Traverse the evocative ruins of the Forum, once the pulsating heart of Roman life. Imagine the echoes of parades and gripping trials as you explore the remnants of this ancient marketplace.
• See Palatine Hill, one of the oldest parts of the city and said to be the birthplace of Rome itself.

On your free day in Rome, you can discover the hidden gem of Trastevere, a bohemian and mostly car-free neighborhood filled with narrow streets and delectable trattorias. Need a moment of respite? Visit the picturesque Aventine Hill, home to the peaceful Giardino degli Aranci (Orange Garden) and the famous keyhole view of St. Peter’s Basilica—which you can visit by adding the guided tour of Vatican City to your day. Here, you’ll also experience the grandeur and serene beauty of the Vatican Museum, as well as the Sistine Chapel’s venerated ceiling fresco. The day is yours to seize.

Finally, join your group at tonight’s farewell dinner, served with beer or wine. You’ll be treated to a multi-course traditional Italian meal and a hearty helping of live traditional entertainment.

Iconic Sights: Vatican City

Transfer to the airport for your flight home or resta ancora un po'—Italian for stay a little longer—to relish more of Rome’s unforgettable sites.   

Use your free day in Rome to enjoy the city at your own pace. Be sure to ask your Tour Director for recommendations—there’s more to Rome than meets the eye, including beneath the city. Did you know that you can descend into eerie underground chambers adorned with bones and skeletal remains in a unique display of artistic macabre at the Capuchin Crypt, also known as the Bone Chapel? And when in Rome, do as the Romans do and bring a refillable water bottle to top off at any of the city's nasoni—cast-iron water fountains.  

Don’t feel like making decisions? Add a guided walking tour through Rome where you can delight in the lushness of the Trevi Fountain and the Piazza Navona. How could this day get any better? Add a pasta-making class where you can end the evening dining on your own creation!   

Pasta-Making Class & Dinner

From $119 per person

Walking Tour of Rome's Iconic Sights

From $85 per person

It’s your final full day in Rome. You won’t want to skip the guided tour of St. Paul’s Basilica—one of Rome’s four major papal basilicas.  

Prefer to spend the day on your own? Whether you want to take it easy over a morning cappuccino or take in the beauty of the Galleria Borghese’s art collection, the day belongs to you.   

Celebrate your trip and raise your glass for a farewell drink with your fellow group members on your last night in Rome.  

Ancient Rome: St. Paul’s Basilica & the Catacombs

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. Arrivederci e a presto—goodbye and see you soon. 

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Overall rating 4.7 out of 5

5 out of 5 stars

I have to start with our tour guide, Stefania. This young woman has such a wealth of knowledge about the country she calls home. And her love for it is evident in the way she expresses herself in the stories that she tells. I am so glad I decided to go with EF tours for my first trip to Italy. Had I...

The Grand Tour of Italy was very informative and enjoyable. The tour director Stefania was outstanding. Lecco, Venice and Rome hotels were excellent. Florence and Assisi hotels had major problems with room temperature and/or hot water and staff had poor attitude. Assisi had a very poor breakfast.

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This scenic hotel is located in Lecco, on the shores of Lake Como. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a gym, and restaurant. Nearby, you’ll find walking paths, ...

This classical hotel is located in on the Venetian island of Lido. Guests enjoy a solarium, fitness center, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find the Ve...

This modern hotel is located in the Lugarno neighborhood of Florence. Guests enjoy the outdoor terrace, on-site restaurants, and bar. Nearby you’ll fi...

This traditional hotel is located near the city center of Assisi. Guests enjoy a restaurant, pool, and spa. Nearby, you’ll find the Basilica of Santa ...

This cozy hotel is located in the city center. Guests enjoy an outdoor pool, bar, and free Wi-Fi. Nearby, you’ll find Piazza Tasso, Marameo Beach, and...

This modern hotel is located near Termini Station. Guests enjoy free WiFi, a minibar, and laundry center. Nearby, you'll find Arcibasilica di San Giov...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter Italy, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• Beginning in 2025, U.S. and Canadian passport holders must register for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to enter many European countries.
• Passport holders from over 60 visa-exempt countries (including the U.S. and Canada) will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization in order to visit 30 European countries. That means that even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these European countries without a visa, starting in 2025, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you only need to complete the form once. All Go Ahead travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center .
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact your destination country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code MIT.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in Milan (Malpensa) airport and depart from Rome.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in Milan, a Go Ahead representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with a Go Ahead sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.
• Please note that the transfer between Milan Malpensa airport and your hotel in the Lake Como region is typically more than an hour drive. Please contact us with any questions regarding this transfer.

Physical Activity Level

This is a high physical activity-level tour. You can expect to be on the move on a regular basis throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a steady-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• 3 full days of included activities
• Most transportation by motor coach
• Occasional transportation by boat
• About 3-4 hours of bus time daily

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2-3 miles per day- this includes city streets, cobblestones, stairs, and hills.
• Cobblestone streets can become slick when wet.
• The city of Venice is fully pedestrian with 3-5 steps leading up and down the many bridges throughout the city.
• The terrain around the Roman Forum and the Colosseum includes inclines and uneven stairs.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on tour.

Climate Considerations

• In the summer months (June-September), travelers can expect heatwaves with temperatures consistently above 90F.
• Venice experiences the Acqua Alta, or high water, during the fall and winter months. During this time, travelers can expect the lower parts of the city to flood for a few hours during the day.

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• This tour includes various modes of transportation including water taxi and private motor coach. Some modes of transportation will have raised platforms or steps and often not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• A water taxi ride in Venice is included in the price of your tour.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• In Venice, water taxis are the main form of transportation and typically require travelers to step down into a rocking boat.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one carry-on bag per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and boats.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels, airports, and boarding water taxis.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel to strike the balance of comfort, location, and local charm.
• Accommodations are typically three and four star hotels.
• All accommodations include a private bathroom.
• Most rooms will include a safe for valuables.
• Your hotels will have Wifi, but it may be limited to common areas.
• Elevators in hotels are not guaranteed.
• Some hotels on this tour require travelers to walk with their luggage a few blocks as buses cannot drop travelers off right out front.
• Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• We cannot guarantee that your hotel accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with the hotel once they are confirmed about 30 days prior to departure.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes 6 dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• Venice and Northern Italy are known for flavorful meats and pastries.
• Tuscany is world-famous for its wine, oil, sauces, and pasta. Menus favor subtle, lighter pastas and desserts made with nuts, fruit, and honey. Try a dish featuring the region’s Chianina beef, perhaps the most prized breed of cattle in all of Italy. For wine, popular Tuscan reds include Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, which are primarily made from the Sangiovese grape. Well-known white wines are also made around the San Gimignano region.
• In Umbria, don’t miss sampling both the reds and whites produced around Orvieto and Perugia.
• The cuisine of Southern Italy is often what diners think of when imagining Italian flavors—pasta with tomato sauces, olives and olive oil, zucchini, veal, and fish are all featured prominently on menus throughout the region.
• Roman food is typically freshly prepared and varies depending on the season. Must-try bites include cacio e pepe (a simple dish of pasta, cheese, and pepper) and supplí (a fried rice ball similar to Sicily’s arancini).
• For more authentic meals, try local trattorias, small restaurants set away from the main piazzas. A typical Italian meal includes wines and the occasional beer, followed by a few sips of after-dinner drinks like grappa or limoncello.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the euro on this tour.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you do not already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• Italy is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm in Italy.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer.
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend.
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language.
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind.
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle.
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.
• If you are interested in visiting any of Florence's many museums during your free time, we recommend that you make reservations in advance. See uffizi.org for the Uffizi Gallery or accademia.org for the Accademia Gallery. Please note that the museums are closed on Mondays.

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• Italy-itineraries

Italy in 16 days for independent travellers

Suggested itinerary: italy in 16 days for independent travellers.

Day 1: Arrival in Rome

Arrival at one of Rome´s airports. Go to the hotel. Go for a walk and have dinner in the centre. Night in Rome.  

Day 2: Vatican City and historic centre

Visit the Vatican City: Sistine Chapel and St. Peter´s Basilica. Visit the historic centre of Rome, going by the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain, the Piazza di Spagna and the Piazza del Poppolo. Night in Rome.  

Day 3: Ancient Rome and Trastevere

Visit the ruins of ancient Rome: the Colisseum, the Forum and the Roman Circus. Walk around and have dinner in Trastevere. Night in Rome.  

Day 4: Pompeii and Herculaneum

Go by train to Naples. Visit the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Return by train to Rome. Night in Rome.  

Day 5: South of Tuscany

Visit by hire car the towns in the south of Tuscany (Montepulciano, Pienza and Montalcino). If you don't want to rent a car, you will find in the trip planner how to go directly from Rome to Siena by public transport. Night in Siena.  

Day 6: Siena and the north of Tuscany

Visit to the Duomo and the Piazza del Campo di Siena. Visit by hire car the towns in the north of Tuscany (Monteriggioni, San Gimignano). If you don't have a hire car, we'll show you how to get to San Gimignano by public transport. Night close to San Gimignano.

Day 7: Chianti and Florence

Visit by hire car to the Chianti region. Arrive in Florence and walk around the historic centre. Night in Florence.

Day 8: Florence, Pisa and Lucca

Visit to the Galleria Degli Uffizi, the world´s most important collection of Renaissance art (Michelangelo, Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael...). Go by car to the towns of Lucca and Pisa (leaning tower). Return to Florence and spend the night in the city.  

Day 9: Venice

Go to Venice by train (or hire car if you prefer). Visit the Piazza San Marcos.Night in Venice.  

Day 10: Venice

Walk through the most emblematic parts of Venice: San Polo, Dorsoduro and Santa Croce. Night in Venice.  

Day 11: Venice and Verona

Visit to Murano Island and walk through the Cannaregio district. Go by train to Verona (or by hire car if you prefer). Visit the historic centre of Verona. Opera at the Verona Arena (opera season). Night in Verona.  

Day 12: Lake Como and Milan

Go by hire car to Lake Como visiting Belaggio and Como (public transport option, skipping Como). Arrive in Milan. Walk and dinner around the areas of Brera, Navigli and Ticinese. Night in Milan.  

Day 13: Milan and Portofino

Visit the historic centre of Milan. Go by train to Santa Margherita Ligure. Spend the afternoon in Portofino. Night in Santa Margherita Ligure.  

Day 14: Cinqueterre

Go on an excursion around the Cinqueterre nature park combing train, walking and ferry. Night in Santa Margherita Ligure.  

Day 15: Camogli and San Fruttuoso

Visit the fishing village of Camogli. Go on an excursion to San Fruttuoso. Go there and back by train. Night in city of departure (Milan or Rome, depending on your flight back to home).

Day 16: Back home

Flight back home.

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Colosseum, Amalfi Coast & Greek Odyssey

Italy & greece in 16 days, 14 nights in destination, up to $500 reward.

Natalie Travel crafter

A culture and history-focused tour of Italy & Greece. Discover Italy independently, from the Colosseum to the Amalfi Coast. Explore the Acropolis of Athens and the mysteries of Delphi, before relaxing in the idyllic Greek islands!

Trip Highlights

• map-pin-check-icon Acropolis of Athens
• map-pin-check-icon Meteora
• map-pin-check-icon Mykonos
• map-pin-check-icon Santorini
• map-pin-check-icon Amalfi Coast
• map-pin-check-icon Naples
• map-pin-check-icon Pompeii
• map-pin-check-icon Rome

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Departures available until June 2025

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• Accommodation in Superior category hotels.

Accommodation: 14 Nights

Marcella Royal Hotel

Rating TripAdvisor travelers

Based on 3517 reviews

The hotels we select comply with our high standards and requirements per category. The allocation is dependent on availability and seasonality, so you can be assigned any of our selection, including the following: Best Western Hotel Artdeco, Bettoja Hotel Massimo d'Azeglio, Hotel Gambrinus, Hotel Napoleon Roma, Hotel Quirinale, Hotel Rinascimento, Hotel Romanico Palace, Hotel Trevi Collection, Mediterraneo Hotel Roma, Villa Glori

Land in  Rome  and admire an eternal city, home of the  Colosseum  and Vatican. Experience the romance of Naples and the beauty of the Amalfi Coast and visit the legendary ruins of Pompeii . Head to Greece  to explore the Acropolis of  Athens,  the sanctuary of  Delphi  and the gravity-defying monasteries of  Meteora. Go island-hopping to discover idyllic  Mykonos and the sublime sunsets of  Santorini.

Pack your bags and head to your departure airport, ready for a flight to the eternal city of  Rome .* Night on board. * If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Arrive in  Rome , the Italian capital, and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day is free to begin exploring this romantic, historic city. The evening is the most magical time of day in Rome when the streets take on an even more charming character. Overnight stay in Rome.

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Marcella royal hotel or similar.

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the meeting point and enjoy a  guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill* , three of the main archaeological sites of the Eternal City. Learn about the history of this empire, from its birth to the gladiatorial fights in the Colosseum, and appreciate the preserved corners of ancient Rome in the Forum and the Palatine Hill. We recommend the optional Piazzas and Fountains of Rome excursion.** The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the historic streets of Rome and dine on delicious Italian cuisine!*** Overnight stay in Rome. * Time and days in Rome can be changed according to the availability of the Colosseum tickets. It will be confirmed 15 days before arrival. However, all included excursions are already guaranteed. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities. 

**  Optional Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion:  Take a pleasant walk through the artistic heart of Rome to visit its most symbolic piazzas and fountains! Visit Piazza Navona, the most elegant of all Rome squares and home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain. See the Church of San Luigi, the incredible Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain, an icon of the city. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, the most photogenic spot in the city! ***  Optional Authentic Italian Dinner at a restaurant in Campo Di Fiori:  Enjoy an authentic Italian dinner in beautiful Campo Di Fiori Square, nestled in the heart of historic Rome. Soak up the atmosphere as you indulge in Italian dishes at a local restaurant.

Walking Tour of the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill

Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion

Authentic Italian Dinner at a Restaurant in Campo Di Fiori in Rome

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day at your leisure in Rome. Perhaps visit the Vatican, trace the footsteps of the greats in the ancient streets of the old city or simply indulge in some delicious Italian ice cream. However you choose to spend your day, Rome is sure to delight you with its old-world charm and unbeatable sights. We suggest taking the optional Guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel*. Overnight stay in Rome. *  Optional Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel : Explore the priceless treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit the Pio Clementino Hall, Laocoon and Apollo Belvedere, Maps Gallery, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel. Afterwards, discover the incredible St. Peter’s Basilica and the atmospheric St. Peter’s Square, dominated by Michelangelo’s imposing Cupola! Please note: Optional tour available Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays afternoon, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only.

Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel

Breakfast  at the hotel. At the indicated time, meet your transfer and head to the train station to catch the Frecciarossa high-speed train to  Naples . Arrive in Naples and transfer to your hotel. Known as the birthplace of pizza and famed for its immense history, Naples sits on the sun-kissed Bay of Naples in southern Italy. Home to centuries worth of important architecture and art, Naples is bursting with opportunities to experience authentic Italian culture! In the afternoon, set off on a  2-hour walking tour  of the city to see its most emblematic sights and landmarks. Visit the Cathedral of San Gennaro, stroll in front of the Royal Palace of Naples, where the great Bourbon kings once resided, and admire the spectacular opera house, Real Teatro di San Carlo! Continue to the main square, Piazza del Plebiscito, to see the Church of San Francesco di Paola before strolling through the beautiful Galleria Umberto I, a historic shopping arcade. See a handful of Naples' ancient castles, many of which date back to medieval times, and end the tour in the historic center, home to the iconic Spacca Napoli street. The remainder of the day is free to discover the cultural gems and mouth-watering cuisine of Naples at your leisure. Overnight stay in Naples.

Palazzo Salgar or similar

1424 Reviews

Walking Tour of Naples

Breakfast  at the hotel. Discover two UNESCO World Heritage Sites today on a  full-day excursion to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii . Depart Naples, headed for the spectacular coastal region of Amalfi. Take in the incredible views of the sea on one side and the Lattari mountains on the other as you listen to the insights of your guide along the scenic 50-mile route. These dramatic landscapes of pastel-colored hillside towns, rugged mountainsides and plunging sea cliffs are among the most impressive in Italy! Next, arrive at the legendary ruins of Pompeii. The devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79AD blanketed this Roman city in layers of ash which preserved the city as if it was frozen in time! Walk around the site, accompanied by an archaeological guide, and learn more about the people that lived here and their daily lives. Highlights include the thermal baths, the Roman amphitheatre, the Macellum and the House of the Faun. After an unforgettable day of discovery, return to Naples and spend the evening at your leisure. Overnight stay in Naples.

Full day tour to the Amalfi Coast and Pompeii Ruins from Naples

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, continue your adventure as you head to the airport to catch a short flight to the Greek capital of Athens! Arrive at  Athens International Airport  and transfer to your hotel for check in. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy your first taste of Athens. Discover  Plaka , the oldest district of Athens, located under the  Acropolis , the only district where you can experience the Greek capital as it was 100 years ago or enjoy a spot of shopping along Ermou, Kolonaki and Voukourestiou streets. Overnight stay in Athens.

Polis Grand or similar

1565 Reviews

Breakfast at the hotel. Today enjoy an  Athens Sightseeing Tour  including the  Acropolis  and the  New Acropolis Museum . Begin in the center of the city, the Constitution Square (Syntagma), the House of Parliament, the Memorial to the Unknown Soldier and the National library. On-route to the Acropolis you will see the Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Olympian Zeus and a quick stop at Panathenaic Stadium, where the first Modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. During the Acropolis visit witness the architectural masterpieces of the Golden Age of Athens: the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, the Erechtheion and finally the famous Parthenon. Your first taste of Athens would not be complete without a visit to the Acropolis Museum, a modern architectural building where you can admire the wonders and architectural masterpieces of the classical era. Return to your hotel with the remainder of your day at leisure. Overnight stay in Athens. Please note:   At the Athens Acropolis, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and includes a number of stairs. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility.  

Athens & Acropolis Guided Tour

Breakfast at the hotel. Today head for  Delphi . On-route discover the cities via Thebes, Levadia and the picturesque village of Arachova, on the slopes of Mount Parnassus. Arrive in Delphi and visit the Archaeological Site of the 4th-century-B.C. This extensive mountainside archaeological complex contains the beautiful remains of the sanctuaries of Apollo and Athena Pronaia, as well as an ancient stadium and theater. Next, depart for Kalambaka, passing through picturesque villages and towns of Central Greece.  Dinner  and overnight stay in Kalambaka. Please note:   At Delphi, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and includes a number of stairs and steep paths. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility.

Amalia Kalambaka or similar

753 Reviews

Visit to Delphi Archeological Site

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you’ll visit the striking rock formation,  Meteora , an incredibly unique scenery with ageless Monasteries protruding from the rocks. These priceless historical and religious treasures stand between sky and earth on the top of the cliffs. An incredible sight to behold. In the afternoon return to Athens via Trikala, Lamia, Thermopylae with a short stop to see Leonida's Monument. Arrive in Athens early in the evening and transfer to the hotel. Overnight stay in Athens. Please note: At Meteora, the terrain is quite uneven underfoot and you will be required to climb a number of stairs in order to visit the monasteries. It may not be suitable for those with reduced mobility. Modest dress is required to enter the monasteries of Meteora. This includes a long skirt (not trousers) and covered neckline/shoulders for women, and long trousers for men. 

Meteora Monasteries

Enjoy your early morning breakfast* and at indicated time transfer to the port for your fast ferry to  Mykonos . This beautiful Greek island in the Aegean Sea is best known for its beaches and lively atmosphere. Upon arrival on transfer to your hotel for check in. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at your leisure and discover the island. We recommend a stroll around the capital town of Hora, a Cycladic maze brimming with trendy bars and restaurants. Overnight stay in Mykonos. *Please note: You may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast this morning due to the early departure time of the ferry to Mykonos.

Pelican Bay Hotel Mykonos... or similar

1028 Reviews

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy today at your leisure and discover this magical island at your own pace. We recommend doing some sightseeing: check out the whitewashed cubic houses, windmills and chapels, the wonderful sandy beaches, shops, galleries and the incredible nightlife. Explore the towns’ winding narrow streets, visit Paraportiani, one of the many churches on the Island, or enjoy a drink at Little Venice. We have an exciting array of recommended optional activities and excursions listed below.  Overnight stay in Mykonos. *Optional Tour of Delos:  A well-rounded tour of this beautiful and historically important island. Having been inhabited between 2500 and 69 b.C. Delos has kept many treasures from these times. Agora, an ancient marketplace, the famous terrace of the Naxos lions, the holy lake, the ancient living quarter and theater that will transport you to daily life back then. Visit and learn about The houses of Dionysos, Kleopatra, the Trident, the Masks and the Dolphins with their mosaics, all fantastic art experiences not to be missed. Why not make the most of your time with our great value Island Experiences Pack of 2 Optional Excursions, available in the next step of the booking process. Choose from  Delos Tour & Caldera – Oia Excursion  or   Delos Tour & Santorini Traditional Bus Tour.  

Delos Island Tour

Island Experiences: Pack of 2 Excursions: Delos Tour + Santorini Traditional Bus Tour

Island experiences: pack of 2 excursions delos tour + caldera – oia (volcano–hot springs–thirassia–oia–sunset.

Breakfast at the hotel. In the morning transfer to the port for your fast ferry to  Santorini . Upon arrival on the Island of Santorini, transfer to your hotel for check in. The remainder of your afternoon is at leisure, we recommend a visit to admire the spectacular caldera with white washed houses perched on the edge, created by the eruption of the islands’ volcano. Overnight stay in Santorini.

El Greco Resort & Spa or similar

2408 Reviews

Breakfast at the hotel. Today you have the day to explore at leisure. Why not relax or explore the volcanic island of Santorini, known worldwide as the island of romance. We have an exciting array of recommended optional activities* and excursions listed below. Overnight stay in Santorini. *Traditional Santorini Bus Tour:  During this exciting bus adventure, stop at the most prominent locations on the island. Explore Emporio Village and its medieval fortress, one of the oldest and most traditional villages of Santorini, built like a small labyrinth. Next, take a guided tour of Akrotiri aka “Prehistoric Pompei” or “Lost Atlantis”, buried and preserved by the volcanic ash of one of the largest volcanic eruptions in human history (17th century BC). You then enjoy some free time on Perissa Beach to have lunch and relax at one of the longest black sandy beaches in the Cyclades. Next, stop at Santorini winery for a tasting of Santorini's distinctive wines and learn about one of the oldest vineyards in Europe. Finish your tour with a short stop at the highest peak of Santorini to admire the island’s striking panoramic view. Finally, transfer to Oia, the most photographed village in Greece. Experience its legendary sunset at your leisure. **Optional Sunset On Board:  Begin this beautiful journey at the volcano of Santorini in Nea Kameni Island, take photos of the active crater and walk on its rims. Next, stop at Palia Kameni where you can dive and swim in the hot springs created by the volcano. Sail above the underwater craters from Palia Kameni to Thirasia Island, the boat will anchor and you will have the time to savour some local wine. In the north cape of Santorini you will admire the magical view of Oia village with its famous white houses! The end of the excursion comes at sunset. The boat sets sail as the sun dives into the sea. ***Optional Caldera – Oia E xcursion  (Volcano–Hot Springs–Thirassia–Oia–Sunset):  An exciting and adventurous excursion that begins sailing with a traditional wooden boat, a kaiki, to the volcano. Climb for approximately 30 minutes to explore dramatic rocky scenery. Next, the boat will anchor at around 220 feet from the hot springs, so you can swim to and from the boat. Next, enjoy some free time for lunch (not included) and a swim  in Thirassia, Fisherman’s Island. After you’ve rested up at lunch, climb 200 steps to reach the top of Oia village, where you will enjoy the legendary sunset. Transfer back to the hotel. ****Optional Santorini Cooking Class and Wine-Tasting Tour:  Treat yourself to a fun & informative Santorini cooking class and wine tasting tour including a culinary feast filled with Santorini flavors and classic Greek island dishes. During your food tour visit 2 traditional Santorini wineries to taste their vintages and then help a knowledgeable local chef prepare three of Santorini’s signature dishes at a traditional restaurant. Enjoy all your freshly-cooked creations at the end of your cooking lesson and taste wine the estate locally produces.

Full-day Santorini traditional bus tour

Volcanic islands sunset dinner cruise, excursion from caldera to oia, wine and food lovers - santorini cooking class and wine-tasting tour.

Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the port for your ferry to Athens. It’s your last day in the Greek Capital so make the most of it and enjoy this vibrant city. Why not do some souvenir shopping and head to some of the many foodie neighborhoods to enjoy your final taste of the delicious greek gastronomy. Overnight stay in Athens. Important:  APRIL-MAY-OCTOBER: the regular ferries which run and connect Santorini with Athens depart from Santorini  in the afternoon and arrive at Athens in the night. The approximate duration is 7h 30 min . Therefore you can enjoy some free time in Santorini on this day but  not in Athens . JUNE-JULY-AUGUST-SEPTEMBER   the regular ferries which run and connect Santorini with Athens depart from Santorini  early in the morning and arrive at Athens in the afternoon . The approximate duration is 7h 30 min .  Therefore you can enjoy some free time in Athens on this day.

Breakfast at the hotel.* After an unforgettable journey through Greece's ancient sites and idyllic islands, it's time to bring your trip to a close. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight back to the US. Night on board**. *Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day. **Depending on the choice of flight, you may arrive back in the US the next day.

Included activities

It is forbidden to enter the Colosseum with suitcases, backpacks and bulky bags and there is no luggage storage inside the Colosseum. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities

Included activity for day 3 in Rome

Take a guided walking tour of three of the main archaeological sites in Rome. Learn about the history of this empire, from its birth to the gladiator fights of the Colosseum and appreciate the relics of ancient Rome at the Forum and Palatine Hill.

Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Physical rating:

Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities

Included activity for day 5 in Naples

Set off on a 2-hour walking tour of Naples to see its most emblematic sights such as the Cathedral of San Gennaro, the Royal Palace of Naples, Piazza del Plebiscito, the Church of San Francesco, Spacca Napoli Street and the beautiful Galleria Umberto.

Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

The professional guide inside the Pompeii excavations will be replaced by an audio guide if there are less than 6 participants. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities

Included activity for day 6 in Naples

Take in the incredible views of the sea on one side and the Lattari mountains on the other as you journey along the scenic 50-mile Amalfi Coast. Afterwards, explore the legendary ruins of Pompeii, accompanied by an archaeological guide.

Duration 08:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Walking shoes are recommended as moderate walking is involved. A hat & sunscreen is recommended for UV protection. Not available on the 16th and 17th April, 1st May and 31st October.

Included activity for day 8 in Acropolis of Athens

Tour the highlights of both modern and ancient Athens! Stops include Consitution Square, the Athens Acropolis, the Temple of Zeus, the Panathenaic Stadium and the Acropolis Museum.

Duration 04:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

Available Activities

This tour only operates Tuesdays, Thursdays and Satudays. Meeting Point: In front of the theatre Argentina. Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time

Suggested activity for day 3 in Rome

Discover the most symbolic piazzas and fountains in Rome! Visit Piazza Navona, home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain and see the Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna.

Meeting Point: Campo de' Fiori, 12, 00186 Roma. In case of being vegetarians, notify in advance to adapt the menu.

Enjoy an authentic Italian dinner in beautiful Campo Di Fiori Square, nestled in the heart of historic Rome.

This tour will be at 9.45am or 13h45pm.Time and date will be reconfirmed on voucher.Tour NOT available on Sundays. Meeting point: via santamaura 28

Suggested activity for day 4 in Rome

Explore the treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit Pio Clementino Hall, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel, among other sights. Also discover St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter's Square.

Suggested activity for day 12

A well-rounded tour of this beautiful and historically important island. Discover the story of the ‘Island of Light’ and visit its main attractions.

Duration 03:30h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination

The price includes

• premium-care-icon Included in all our trips.   more information
• Departures from main US airports.
• International flights: US - Rome, Athens - US.
• Internal Flight: Naples - Athens.* more information
• Domestic High-speed train in Standard Class: Rome - Naples.
• 14 nights hotel accommodation in Superior category hotels. See hotels included
• 14 breakfasts.
• Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles as indicated in the itinerary.** more information
• Visits as indicated in the itinerary with an English-speaking guide.*** more information See itinerary
• All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
• Fast ferries Athens - Mykonos – Santorini – Athens on economy class.**** more information
• Guided sightseeing tour and Acropolis in Athens. Guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in Rome.

Not included

Drinks, entrance fees, city taxes and tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included. Please consult the itinerary for details of the entrance fee costs (approx. 52 euros per person). A number of Greek cities impose an accommodation tax, which must be paid directly to the hotel (Aprox. 3-4€ per room per night).  City taxes must be paid in cash directly to the hotels. Accommodation tax in Italy must be paid directly to the hotel (Approx. 6 € per person per night).

See important notes

* Documentation of the internal flights will either be available in the "My bookings" section in your "Customer Area" 14 days before your trip or delivered to you on arrival at your destination. It is essential to fill in the passport information correctly for each passenger in the given boxes at the end of the reservations process. Hotel ratings in Italy & Greece are not governed by the same standards as those in the US, so please keep this in mind when selecting your desired accommodation category.

Due to the nature of the destination the terrain can be uneven at times, it may require you to walk on a rocky path, and up and down hills.

For wheelchair users this trip is upon request, please contact us for further information.

About Italy: ** The shuttle service from the airport to the hotel will wait for you up to one hour after the arrival of your flight. If your flight is delayed or you experience issues collecting your luggage please get in touch with the local provider. Please note:  this itinerary is an  independent tour , not a group tour. It includes accommodation, some activities and some transfers, but you  will not  be accompanied by a guide throughout the entire trip, nor will you be traveling in a group. As an independent tour, the dates of the excursions may differ based on the availability of the tours. The final date will be available on the voucher uploaded on your Exoticca account prior to departure. Meeting points : the included tours will depart from designated meeting points. The location of the meeting points will be included in your trip details. Transfers to the meeting points are not included. *** Time and days in Rome can be changed according to the availability of the Colosseum tickets. It will be confirmed 15 days before arrival. However, all included excursions are already guaranteed. Important : please bear in mind that the accommodation included in Venice is located in  Venice Mestre,  which is situated outside the island, approximately 25-30 minutes away by train, bus or Taxi. If you visit during a religious or an official event or during a national holiday, certain attractions may be closed. Important: The availability of some activities cannot be guaranteed during major holidays, including Christmas & Holy Week. Due to the nature of the destination the terrain can be uneven at times, it may require you to walk on a rocky path, and up and down hills. Important: Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities. About Greece: Please bear in mind that in the Greece part of this itinerary, will be a semi escorted tour. **** Please keep in mind that the ferry ride from Piraeus (Athens) to Mykonos takes approximately 4 hours, and from Mykonos to Santorini takes approximately 3 hours. We recommend taking cash in the local currency with you on this trip, as withdrawing cash at ATMs is not always possible or easy in Greece. City taxes must be paid in cash directly to the hotels. We cannot guarantee rooms with a sea view in the Greek Islands. The group may be allocated in different hotels depending on group size and hotel availability. Beach chairs / sun loungers are not included. Please note that there is no luggage assistance included throughout the trip. We recommend packing accordingly.

Useful information

Entry requirements

Passport with a minimum of 6 months validity required.

No visa is required to enter the country.

Electricity

220 V. Adapter required.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for travellers from the US.

GMT + 01:00.

Other useful information

Italian cuisine is one of the most prominent in the world. The national dish is pasta.

Tourist Office website

http://www.italia.it/en/home.html

Offer conditions

Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline’s website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same, or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or cancelled without prior notice.

If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +1 888-488-0592 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met. While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

Exoticca Travel Stories

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Mykonos · Greece

A wonderful trip to Greece

Just returned from a wonderful trip to Greece. Everything happened as I was told when I booked. I am looking forward to my November trip to Egypt and Jordan. I will be expecting the same high-quality service I experienced in Greece.

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Signature Italy Tour

A cherished favourite for many travellers, and the home of the “Dolce Vita” way of life, Italy has an expansive and established influence in world culture. Fall under the subliminal charm of fine leathers, renaissance art, classical music, delicate pasta, Neapolitan pizza, wonderful wines, fresh mozzarella and velvety chocolate. From Venice’s waterways and Pisa’s leaning tower, to Florence’s Duomo and Cinque Terre’s panoramic views – an unforgettable experience awaits. Our complete itinerary goes beyond the essentials and is the perfect way to discover Italy for the first, second or tenth time.

Departure Dates

The details.

All-inclusive

Per person in double occupancy

Single supplement: $1,500

Max Group Size: 30 travellers

Deposit Terms: $500 per person at time of booking $1,000 per person 45 days later Balance due 90 days before departure

Our approach perks

Private car service to and from your home airport

International flights and transportation while abroad

Meals and excursions that are typically sold separately

Tips for all service providers

24/7 Group Guru (in addition to tour guide and local guides)

$5 million of emergency medical travel insurance coverage, as well as protection for lost, damaged or stolen luggage

All taxes at home and abroad (including airport and hotel taxes)

This tour also includes

Tour essentials.

International flights with KLM / Air France / Lufthansa (details)

14 nights in first class hotels

Dedicated English-speaking tour guide and local guides

Carefully selected visits, with entrance fees

Luxury coach bus transfers and luggage porterage throughout

Food & drink

All 42 meals, including: 14 breakfasts, 14 lunches and 14 dinners

4 local product tasting lunches (included in meal count)

Amalfi style farewell dinner (included in meal count)

Welcome cocktail

Bottled water daily (2 x 500ml)

Our happy travellers rave about Italy

Above and beyond what could have been expected.

The whole experience was absolutely top-notch. The meals, the hotels and the tour guides (both local and permanent) were remarkably informative and helpful. I should, however, reserve the highest praise for our guru & guide, Rasha Salem and Francesca. They went above and beyond what could have been expected – and we did expect a lot. Their ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances; closed roads, rough sea and incredible crowds was superlative. The choice of venues and activities was, obviously, well thought out and our individual requests were catered to.

The itinerary and tours were outstanding

Wonderful experience! Approach all-inclusive tours are very professional making travel stress-free. They pick you up and deliver you to the airport where you are met by your trip guru who accompanied us from start to finish. We also had a local guide in Italy who was with us from start to finish. Her job was to get us from one place to the next as well as keep us informed about our day and local sites while we travelled. Expert local guides were also used at most attractions. They were really knowledgeable and made each attraction come alive. These guides made all the difference to ensure we had a superior trip. Our trip guru RASHA SALEM was outstanding. Caring, quick to address any issues, helpful and knowledgeable. She is a real gem. Hotels and especially the beds were great. Breakfast was typical European fare, all lunches were great to excellent….especially the wine tastings. Food and drink were plentiful…..always past full each evening. The itinerary and tours were outstanding. Highly recommend Approach Tours Signature Italy trip.

I would highly recommend this trip to anyone

The Signature Italy Tour was the trip of a lifetime for my partner, Pina and me. Approach Tours did an amazing job organizing every detail from picking us up at our home to ensuring we stayed at top hotels while enjoying wonderful meals each day. Our Group Guru Rasha Salem was the best. She was very caring and detail-oriented. She made sure we all had the best time ever! I would highly recommend this trip to anyone. Book yours today.

A fabulous holiday

I joined as a solo traveller and had a fabulous holiday. Our group guru Rasha and our Italian guide Franschesca helped to make the trip far beyond what I expected. From incredible sightseeing (including wineries) to amazing local lunches and lovely hotels, I can’t say enough how much I enjoyed the 16-day tour.

Extremely organized, knowledgeable and very resourceful

This was an experience of a lifetime from beginning to end. A fantastic group of people who made this trip unique and fun. Our Guru (Rasha Salem) and our Italian tour guide (Francesca Anghileri) we’re 100% dedicated and committed to the whole group 24/7.  They were extremely organized, knowledgeable and very resourceful, it was very obvious that they had done this before. We also appreciated that in some of the major cities they included “local” guides who shared all the pertinent information and history of the places we were visiting!  Amazing!  Approach advertising about literally being all-inclusive, they are not lying. We just had to get up in the morning and be on time for the bus… they took care of everything else.  Kudos to the Approach team(s) who work in the background – from the time of booking, pick up at home, travel arrangements, hotel(s) bookings, buses, events scheduling … and so much more!! THANK YOU!

Definitely will travel with Approach Tours again

Definitely will travel with Approach Tours again. Many opportunities were available as part of this group that I would not have had travelling on my own. I loved having the opportunity to experience so many various activities (wine tastings, cheese tastings, boat trips, etc.). 

A tour that I will remember forever

I loved the variety of excursions, from wine festivals to small towns, to Rome and the Vatican. Roberta took us on a real tour of Italy that I will remember forever.  

Amazing to see in person!

Our favourite part was the gondola ride in Venice. All the boat rides were really good … Lake Garda, Cinque Terre, Sorrento/Amalfi/Positano. Enjoyed the beautiful churches in Venice, Pisa, Rome and Florence. All stops had beautiful architecture. Lastly cannot forget Rome and the Vatican, amazing to see in person!

Very interesting commentary by the guides!

I loved Verona for its musical associations, Cinque Terra, San Giminagno, taking a gondola ride in Venice, and Pisa (I had visited it before and was pleasantly surprised to enjoy it so thoroughly). Very interesting commentary by the guides! Also greatly enjoyed the wine tasting in Vineyards.  

Everything is included, including tips

I enjoyed my time in Cinque Terre. I went for a swim in my clothes! I also enjoyed the boat ride at Lake Garda. I like that everything is included, including tips. Our Guru, Caroline was very helpful and good at creating good group cohesion.  

Positano, Amalfi, Capri, and Lake Garda

The fabulous local guides were the highlights. Learning t he history of the area was my favourite, but I also really enjoyed the “down days” at Positano, Amalfi, Capri, and Lake Garda. All the planning on behalf of Approach was a bonus to me, as it was the first time I had travelled “solo ”. Bravo!!  

Spirit & kindness of my fellow travellers

Highlight was the variety, spirit & kindness of my fellow travellers. I particularly enjoyed several places I had never been to before and benefited  from the knowledge & humour of the local drivers & guides. I took the opportunity to explore some places on my own and rekindle my personal interests and confidence in my ability to navigate new places .  

This tour’s itinerary

Days 1 & 2 goodbye canada, ciao italia.

DAY 3 EXPLORE VENICE

DAY 4 VERONA & ROMEO & JULIET (212 KM)

DAY 5 DISCOVER LAKE GARDA

DAY 6 SAVOURING EMILIA ROMAGNA (362 KM)

DAY 7 COLOURFUL CINQUE TERRE (294 KM)

DAY 8 LEANING TOWER & SUBLIME OLIVE OIL (104 KM)

DAY 9 BEAUTIFUL FLORENCE

DAY 10 SIENA & ALL ROADS LEAD TO ROME (298 KM)

DAY 11 ROMAN ADVENTURE

DAY 12 THE VATICAN & MICHELANGELO

DAY 13 POMPEII, THE CITY OF ASH & SORRENTO (268 KM)

DAY 14 AMAZING AMALFI COAST

DAY 15 DAY TRIP TO CAPRI

DAY 16 ARRIVEDERCI ITALIA, HOME SWEET HOME

Hotels we've previously visited in Italy

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Ask our faq, ask our team, what's your question, our unique approach, radically all-inclusive.

When we say we are all-inclusive, we mean it. Our tours have everything you need to sit back and enjoy your experience. No precious time wasted, no extra costs, no fine print.

All-inclusive doesn’t mean “all of my time”

While everything is included on an Approach tour, we built our experiences with different travel styles in mind. After all, your time is yours to enjoy as you please.

WHEN I'M ON VACATION...

I want free time.

Feel free to break away and to rejoin the group whenever you want – we’ll even give you tips on how to get around and what there is to see. Just give us a heads up!

I want to do & see everything!

No commission. ever..

We sell directly to you so that you never have to pay for expensive agency commissions

24/7 delight? We’ve got that.

From 24/7 customer service, to making every interaction as delightful as possible, we make it easy for our guests – every step of the way. Just ask.

MULTIPLE GATEWAYS. ONE FLAT SUPPLEMENT.

$100. Flat. (Toronto gateways are included)

Call, message or email us anytime – we will respond 24/7

Your dedicated Group Guru is available to help anytime.

DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE

We pick you up and drop off in a private car. All you need to do is pack and walk out your front door!

Comfort that travels with you

World-class airlines.

• Assisted check-in
• Complimentary baggage allowance
• In-flight entertainment
• Possibility for upgrades at your discretion

FOOD IS PART OF THE EXPERIENCE

We’ve taken time to select our favourite spots for you to safely explore the local cuisine while on tour. Pack your taste buds.

HOTELS WE KNOW AND LOVE

We believe a restful night’s sleep is the cornerstone of any trip. Check out the tour pages for images from our favourite hotels for that destination.

HIGH QUALITY, MODERN COACHES

• Air conditioning
• Premium seating
• Large windows to take in the view
• Extra seating
• Dedicated baggage storage so you can stretch out

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Italy Day Tours – 20 Most Memorable Sightseeing Tours

Rich in history, culture, and the arts, you might check out one of the many Italy day tours to see the Bel Paese (a beautiful country). Having so many things to see, you may wonder where to begin touring.

Italy has the most UNESCO world heritage sites in the world (58 total). That means that you can spend two weeks in Italy and barely scratch the surface of all the fun things to see and do. Even if you don’t see everything on your first trip to Italy, it leaves plenty of room to experience more fun things later.

With all of that in mind, I put together this awesome list of the best day tours in Italy . Check out the ones that appeal to you the most.

1. Siena and San Gimignano: Day Tour with Lunch from Florence

Taking a full-day tour from Florence , this 9-hour trip, offered in English, will let you tour the Tuscan countryside with your taste buds. Walk through the medieval streets of Siena on a guided tour of a city that sits right in the middle of Tuscany. Easily the most recognizable structure in Siena is the shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, the central square.

The streets and squares of Siena make it perfect for strolls, and you will discover how the city has a way of absorbing you right into it even beyond the landmarks.

Along with Siena, this is one of the day trips in Italy where you will head 25 miles to the north of Siena to explore the medieval hill town of San Gimignano, thought to date back to the Holy Roman Empire. Full of ancient buildings, San Gimignano earned UNESCO world heritage status as a way to preserve its rich history.

2. Sorrento, Positano & Amalfi Day Tour from Naples

One of the fun and exciting day trips in Italy, this fun exploration of the Amalfi Coast will last from 8 to 9 hours. During the tour, the driver will stop twice at some of the most picturesque locations for stunning photos and memories. While in Sorrento and Amalfi, you will receive time to explore on your own, and we highlight that because it gives you more freedom to wander in the wonder of this location that has captured the imagination of travelers since Roman times.

The scenic coastal views and the delightful gourmet and regional cuisine will be a bite to be remembered as one of the fun Italy day tours.

3. Dolomite Mountains and Cortina Day Trip from Venice

Wish to escape Venice for the day? Check out this tour of Cortina d’Ampezzo, a luxurious ski resort town. This is one of the best day trips in Italy because you get to see the Dolomite Mountains and take a break at two of the most beautiful lakes: Lake Musurina and Lake Braies. You will also get the chance to go shopping at some of the chic boutiques. 

All the while, you get to take in the landscapes of a region famous for its beauty.

4. Cinque Terre Day Tour from Florence

Taking you over to a coastal region of cliff-hanging villages, this is one of the Italy day tours that will take you through the region’s history—history lovers everywhere should pay attention. On this tour, you will take a boat ride from Manarola to Vernazza. The tour gives you free time to explore this region on foot. Step into some of the local wine bars and restaurants and sip some of the regional varieties.

To ensure a more intimate atmosphere, book the tour with a maximum of eight.

5. Venice In a Day: Basilica San Marco, Doges Palace & Gondola ride

One of the best day trips in Italy, the City of Bridges never disappoints, and getting a tour here will show you all the best sites of the city. Venice belongs to the country of Italy today, but it was considered a powerful and independent city-state for over 1,100 years. This guided 6-hour and 30-minute tour will take you to the bustling Rialto Fish Market.

You will climb aboard a gondola and tour the city. It’s one of the best ways to get to know this city. You will also take a guided tour of Doge’s Palace.

6. Swiss Alps Bernina Express Rail Tour from Milan

Wish to ride along one of the most beautiful railway routes in the world? This is one of the Italy day tours that you don’t want to miss. The glacial lakes and the alpine scenery will leave you with lifelong memories, and you will get time to explore St. Moritz and Tirano. While the area is beautiful, the guide will explain everything about the region along the way.

7. The Original Entire Vatican Tour & St. Peter’s Dome Climb

This thrilling tour of the Vatican starts you out differently from the others where you begin with a climb of the St. Peter’s Basilica dome. Once up there, you will see a picturesque scene of Vatican City and Rome . This is one of the day tours in Italy, guided by an art historian, and will include a run through the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museum.

8. Capri, Anacapri, and Blue Grotto on a Day Trip

Lasting approximately eight hours, this tour was meant to highlight the best of Capri, Anacapri, and Blue Grotto. Your tour on a hydrofoil and a minibus, and the tour guide will offer insights about the destination along the way.

9. Montalcino, Orcia Valley, Pienza, and Montepulciano from Florence

This tour lasts about 11 hours and 30 minutes, and it will take you through the highlights of the Tuscan region. Taste some of the most delightful wines and cheeses and absorb the joys of the Val d’Orcia countryside. During this tour, you will see historic hill towns like Montalcino, Pienza , and Montelpulciano . Along the way, you’ll enjoy the hilly vineyard countryside on one of the unforgettable Italy day tours.

Explore more: 17 Day Trips from Siena – Discover Slices of Tuscan Life

10. Etna Morning Trip

Southern Italy has a distinctly different feel from that of northern Italy, and this tour of Mt. Etna will take you to one of the biggest volcanos in all of Europe . You will hike along the trail to the inner crater and learn more about the fascinating geological history of this location. At the same time, you will admire the stunning views of the spectacular Sicilian landscapes.

11. Murano & Burano Islands Guided Day Tour by Private Boat

The nearby islands of Murano and Burano offer a lot to travelers, and this tour, a short trip from Venice, will give you insights into the glass-blowing techniques of Murano. Both of the islands are artisan islands, and you can wander the picturesque streets and visit the charming Italian workshops.

12. Best of Lake Como Experience from Milan, Cruise, and Landscapes

Take an adventure into the beautiful cities of Como and Bellagio. The tour starts with arrival at the lakeside town of Como. The area has an almost fairytale landscape, and you will ride north to see what has inspired generations of artists. You will take a lake cruise over this mountainous region for one of the most spectacular experiences.

13. Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills and Italian Cuisine

You will meet with a local guide who shows you through the scenic Tuscan hills . Along the way, you will pass the famous Church of San Miniato al Monte and the Piazzale Michelangelo. Once finished, you will head over into the hilly vineyard countryside of Tuscany for a traditional Italian meal—bruschetta, salami board, pasta, and cheese. You will follow the guide riding along on a scooter.

This is one of those tours that take you a bit off the tourist trail for an authentic Italian experience.

14. Villa d’Este and Hadrian’s Villa in Tivoli Tour from Rome

This is one of those Italy day tours that I wouldn’t miss. It lasts five hours. Ancient Tivoli is a stunning hilltop town that was once the lavish destination of Italy’s powerful and wealthy. You will encounter many ancient architectural styles here, and you will see the elegant Renaissance palace and garden . Originally, they built Villa d’Este for Emperor Hadrian in the second century.

15. Rome in a Day: Colosseum, Vatican & Historic Rome

Rome has more than you can see in a day, and even arguably in a week. However, if you don’t have much time and would like to see the highlights, this is one of the Italy day tours that will guide you through the art , history, architecture, and culture.

During this tour, you get skip-the-line access to Vatican Museums and the Colosseum. You will also see Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain.

16. Day Trip from Naples: Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius

Arguably one of the most fascinating sites in all of Italy, Pompeii gives us a unique look into the life of ancient Romans before the natural disaster that happened 2,000 years ago. You will learn everything about the ecological history here from a professional volcanologist.

17. Boat Tour “A day in the Egadi Islands” from Trapani

One of the fascinating Italy day tours that take you to Egadi Islands, this tour lets you bypass the crowded tourist boats. At the same time, you get the chance to dive, swim and snorkel in the crystalline waters around Levanzo and Favignana. This is one of the best day tours in Italy because you can go snorkeling, and they provide the equipment.

18. Day Tour on a Luxury Catamaran to the Maddalena Archipelago

Coming with a comfortable restroom-equipped catamaran, the tour will take you to all of the most important sites in the Maddalena Archipelago. Enjoy snorkeling, and at the end of the trip, you will get a traditional Sardinian lunch aboard the catamaran with vegetarian and seafood options available. This full-day tour that lasts seven to eight hours includes alcoholic beverages.

19. Verona and Lake Garda Day Trip from Milan

Taken on a tour with a local and experienced guide who speaks English, you will encounter the best of Verona, which includes the Roman Arena, the Piazza delle Erbe, and the house of Juliet from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. You can call out to Romeo from the balcony. You will see the beautiful town of Sirmione, which has a medieval castle overlooking the lake. The whole town has medieval streets to explore and wander. This town is also famous for its thermal springs.

You will eat lunch in the town of Sirmione, and if you like wine, you may want to try the Bardolino, which is the most representative wine of this region.

20. Ostia Antica Tour from Rome

One of the lesser-known archaeological sites of Italy, Italy day tours to Ostia Antica will leave you astounded since this was once an ancient Roman city and port found at the mouth of the Tiber River. Any history fanatics will love this because it’s one of the best-preserved ancient Roman cities. Some say that it even rivals that of Pompeii.

This tour includes headphones so that you can hear your tour guide, and it gives you an educational but engaging historic commentary on this archaeological site. It is recommended that you take on this tour with a group of 10 or less for a more intimate experience. When you buy the ticket, it allows you to skip the lines to get into the attraction quicker.

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Italy 16 Days

• France & Switzerland 14 Days
• France, Switzerland & Italy 28 Days

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Italy Trip for Teens

Join an unforgettable summer trip, where high school students travel across Italy with a small group of fellow adventurers! With rail pass and maps in hand, this trip allows teens to tour Italy ’s monuments, take in its artistic masterpieces, enjoy that perfect gelato, and discover just how good authentic pizza and pasta really is. This small group travel program allows for a little flexibility and spontaneity along the way, by allowing the teens travel ing to take part in some of the planning alongside their  amazing trip leaders – all within our predetermined itinerary on this Italy adventure travel program!

Please note that participants on some departures of this program join for the end of our longer 28-day France, Switzerland & Italy program.

About This Program

What it’s like

Experience new cultures and thrilling activities in a smaller, tight-knit travel group.

Accommodations

Includes breakfast and dinner daily.

Includes all recreation & activities listed.

Transportation

Public transportation such as metro, train and bus.

Up to 24 participants.

ON TOUR Available

ON TOUR departures offer more independence and age-appropriate activities for older teens currently completing 11th or 12th grade.

A large traveler's backpack is strongly recommended. A rolling duffel bag is also acceptable.

Dietary Options

We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.

Program Highlights

• • Ride in a gondola on the canals of Venice.
• • Hike the coastal trails of Cinque Terre.
• • Dance the night away at a disco.
• • Prepare authentic delicacies at Italian cooking school.
• • Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii.
• • Marvel at the sight of David at the Accademia.
• • Visit the Vatican and the Sistine Chapel.
• • Zip line and paddleboard in Tuscany.

Flight To Milan, Italy

Fly overnight to Milan. Once you land, your orientation will officially begin with some of our favorite icebreakers and “get to know you” activities.

Cinque Terre, Italy

Part of the Italian Riviera, these five small, classic Italian towns are built into the cliffs and rise from the sea and look much like they did when they were first settled in the 17th century. Enjoy some chill time in these quaint fishing villages of the Cinque Terre. Hike from village to village stopping for amazing coastal views and irresistible pesto (this is where it was born!). Soak up the Italian sun during a relaxing day at the beach, and chill with a night of group activities and bonding overlooking the Mediterranean.

Venice, Italy

The city known for its canals! Explore this "maze" of over 100 islands connected by 150 canals and 400 bridges first by foot, then by gondola. Wander the shops of Venice filled with Venetian masks. Watch a demonstration of the 700-year-old craft of Murano glass blowing. Feed the pigeons in Piazza San Marco. Enjoy the Italian feasts of pizza, pasta, and parmigiana.

Florence, Italy

Ah Florence! Home of the Renaissance, the works of Boticelli, Da Vinci, and Michelangelo. Check out the famous Duomo by Brunelleschi and behold Michelangelo's impressive David at the Accademia. Search the leather markets for the perfect gifts, then put on your apron and attend an authentic Italian cooking class. Savor Florence's greatest treat - classic Italian gelato. Soar above the emerald waters of the Lima River within a secluded canyon while zip lining in Tuscany followed by stand up paddleboarding in this spectacular natural setting. Celebrate your time in Florence with a night out at the disco.

The Amalfi Coast, Italy Sorrento, Positano & Capri

Soak up the street carnival atmosphere in this cliff-side town overlooking the Bay of Naples. Cruise to the Isle of Capri stopping to hop off and swim in majestic green waters and grottos. Ride the funicular to the town of Capri and take in the cafe scene near Piazza Umberto. Spend the day at the chic beach resort town of Positano.

Rome, Italy Plus Pompeii

Imagine gladiators in the Colosseum and people-watch at the Spanish Steps. Dine in the celebrated Piazza Navona, discover the ancient treasures of the Pantheon and Forum and visit Vatican City and enormous St. Peter's Square. Try to picture Michelangelo painting the famous ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, attend an authentic Roman Toga Party and don't forget to toss three coins in the Trevi Fountain - to guarantee your return to the Eternal City! Enjoy a final night of laughs before you say "arrivederci" to your new friends and your summer of a lifetime! Pompeii, Italy Explore the ruins of Pompeii buried in the volcanic ash when Vesuvius erupted 1,900 years ago. These excavated ruins offer a fascinating and unforgettable view of history.

Return Flight Home From Rome, Italy

Say farewell to your new friends as you part ways for your return home. The summer might be over, but all the memories you’ve made will last a lifetime!

In Cinque Terre, we stay at Hotel Genova . Enjoy this ideal location in the city center of La Spezia, Cinque Terre, just a few minute walk from the Harbor.

Staying at Hotel Belle Epoque we’ll be situated in the center of Venice just a few minutes from St. Marco Square. All rooms have satellite TV, air conditioning and are furnished in a typical Venetian style.

Enjoy your stay at Hotel Cellai , located in the heart of downtown Florence just minutes from the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and famous leather markets.

Sorrento, Italy

You will be staying at Hotel Savoia , located in the heart of Sorrento, a short walking distance to all of the nightlife and a perfect hub for exploring the Island of Capri and the beach of Positano.

Rome, Italy

Staying at the Best Western Blu Hotel Roma , you’ll be surrounded by Rome’s famous monuments and landmarks, such as the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps, the Villa Borghese gardens and the Trevi Fountain.

More Details

Program specifics.

Flight To Milan, Italy For participants on this program, we help you coordinate your flight times and greet you upon arrival in Milan, Italy.

Return Flight Home From Rome, Italy For your return from Rome, we offer a chaperoned flight to New York. For travelers from outside the New York area, we can help you arrange transfers at suitable times after the group has cleared customs and immigration; or you may fly home directly from Rome to your home city and our leaders help you to check-in and remain in the airport until flights in designated times have departed.

About ON TOUR This program features separate, age-compatible departure dates, including ON TOUR departures for older teens currently completing 11th or 12th grade. These ON TOUR departures offer more freedom of choice than our other TRAVEL programs by balancing the greater independence that young adults crave with the structure and safety that parents expect. Itineraries include amazing activities and sights for the more mature student, as well as a later curfew. Opportunities to do some safe exploring in smaller groups to find that local cafe or indie boutique also makes this a standout experience for older students.

Meals Breakfasts in Europe are eaten at our hotels and served buffet style with a variety of options. For dinners, either the whole group goes to the same restaurant or we divide into smaller groups of your choosing with our staff. For lunch, you will enjoy eating in smaller groups and choosing from local cafés, bistros, and other restaurants. Are you ready for fresh pasta and pizza in Italy? The food in Europe is terrific, so get set to eat extremely well!

We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.

Laundry You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. Every week you may drop off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go.

Luggage On this program, we ask that participants pack in a large traveler’s backpack or internal frame backpack which are essential for mobility and convenience of travel. Participants are responsible for carrying their luggage while traveling throughout our destinations, on public transportation (ex: trains, metro) as well as up stairs, along cobblestone streets and for extended distances. Rolling duffel bags are permitted but not recommended as they are difficult to maneuver and transport through European city streets and public spaces.

Your traveling backpack or duffel should be a maximum of 6400 cubic inches or 105 liters, and not longer than 32″. Common acceptable bag sizes are 30”x15”x14” and 32”x15”x12”.

What’s Included Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.

Not included is transportation to and from the program, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.

Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?

Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders .

What if I need to contact my teen during the program?

Participants may bring their cell phones so parents may call and message their kids directly. You may also contact our Communication Centers which serve as the official link between programs on the road and parents. We are staffed every day during the summer and have somebody on call for after hours emergencies ready to assist you 24/7.

What is the difference between an Active Teen Tour and a Global Adventure program?

Our Active Teen Tours offer larger group sizes (generally 35-48 participants) and travel in deluxe motor coaches. Accommodations include quality hotels and occasional fun college residences.

Global Adventures are smaller group experiences (generally up to 26 participants). Groups travel by private motor coaches and occasional public transportation internationally, and use passenger vans in the USA. The France, Switzerland and Italy itinerary travels exclusively by train and public transportation. While these programs have a slightly bigger focus on adventure travel, we stay in quality hotels and lodges, always ensuring a good night’s rest.

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Travel Home > Itineraries > 16 Day Venice to Barcelona

Italy, France & Spain: From Venice to Barcelona 16-Day Tour Itinerary

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Welcome to our Venice to Barcelona Tour Itinerary, a journey through three of Europe’s most vibrant and diverse countries: Italy, France, and Spain. 

From the stunning canals and historic architecture of Venice to the breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures of the French countryside, and the vibrant art and cuisine of Barcelona, this tour offers a truly unparalleled travel experience. 

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to explore some of the continent’s most iconic landmarks, taste the finest local cuisines, and immerse yourself in the rich cultures and histories of each region.

Trip Highlights

• Venice, Italy
• Bologna, Italy
• Cinque Terre, Italy
• Nice, France
• Marseille, France
• Barcelona, Spain

What's Included?

• Luxury Transport
• Private Drivers
• 24 Hour Online Support
• Fully Customizable Tour Itinerary
• Free Cancellation & Rescheduling

Watch Our 16 Day Tour of France, Italy & Spain Video Overview

Day 1: private water limousine transfer from venice marco polo airport to hotel.

The private water limousine transfer from Venice Marco Polo airport to your hotel is the ultimate way to start your vacation in style. 

As soon as you arrive at the airport, a professional chauffeur will greet you and assist you with your luggage before escorting you to your private water limousine. Sit back and relax as you are whisked away across the Venetian Lagoon to your hotel, taking in the breathtaking views of the city along the way. The water limousine is equipped with comfortable seating, music, and refreshments, ensuring that you have a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

Walking Tour of Venice

During your walk through the stunning city of Venice, your guide will lead you to some of the most beautiful and iconic locations in the city. 

The itinerary may include a stroll along the typical canal pathways, a visit to the iconic Rialto Bridge, and a tour of the Fondaco dei Tedeschi, a former German trade house.

You’ll also have the chance to visit Marco Polo’s neighborhood and see St. Mark’s “Great School”. Other highlights of the tour may include a visit to St. John & Paul’s Cathedral, also known as the Dogees’ Pantheon, and a stop at Campo S. Maria Formosa. Depending on your interests and the timing of the tour, your guide will tailor the itinerary to ensure you have an unforgettable experience in Venice.

Venice Gondola Ride

A private gondola trip is the most romantic way to see the city. 

As you glide along the canals of Venice in your private gondola, you’ll be able to take in the stunning architecture, historic landmarks, and charming waterways of this iconic city. Your gondolier, a local expert and professional rower will guide you through the lesser-known waterways and provide you with historical and cultural insights about the city as you go.

During your private gondola trip, you’ll have the chance to customize the route and choose the sights you want to see. Some popular options include a tour of the Grand Canal and a visit to the Rialto Bridge.

You can also opt for a sunset or evening ride, which offers a unique and romantic perspective of the city.

Day 2: Murano & Burano Tour by Private Boat

The islands of Murano and Burano are true gems located just a short boat ride from Venice. 

These majestic and colorful islands are known for their rich history and artisan culture, with Murano being famous for its glassmaking and Burano for its lace production. A private guided tour of these islands allows you to fully immerse yourself in their unique culture and witness skilled craftsmen and women at work. 

As you wander through the bright and charming streets and piazzas of these islands, your guide will provide you with fascinating insights into their history. This private tour is the perfect way to escape the hustle and bustle of central Venice and discover the hidden treasures of these beautiful islands.

Your guide will meet you at your hotel and take you on a journey to the beautiful Island of Murano. After arriving on the island by water taxi, you’ll have the opportunity to visit an operational glass factory and learn about the secrets of this age-old tradition from your guide.

You’ll also get to see skilled artisans at work producing a range of items, from beadwork to spectacular chandeliers. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to learn about and experience the art of glassmaking in Murano.

Your private water taxi will take you to the vibrant island of Burano, known for its colorful houses and rich history of lace production. In the 16th century, the women of Burano began making needlepoint lace, a tradition that is still practiced today. During your tour, you’ll have the chance to watch skilled artisans handmake lace in the time-honored tradition, and admire their skill and craftsmanship up close.

In addition to the lacemakers, another highlight of Burano is the opportunity to wander through the charming streets and take in the stunning array of pastel-colored houses that line the waterfront. With your private guide by your side, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere and culture of this colorful island.

Day 3: Fast Train or Private Chauffeur from Venice to Bologna

Whichever method of transport you choose the journey will take approx 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Food Tour of Bologna

On this food tour of Bologna, you’ll not only get to taste some of the delicious local cuisines, but you’ll also have the chance to explore the heart of the city with a local host. Your host will take you to the main squares, a food market, and some hidden places that would be difficult to find on your own, all while entertaining you with stories about the culture and traditions of Bologna.

As you make your way through the city, you’ll have the opportunity to sample a variety of delicious foods, including cured meat, Parmigiano, and Aceto balsamico, as well as traditional homemade pasta dishes at a typical trattoria and a visit to a pasta factory. You’ll also get to try the Roman pizza and artisanal Italian gelato, making this a truly mouth-watering and memorable tour.

Day 4: Wine Tasting On The Bologna Hills

This full-day wine tour begins at 9:00 AM with a departure from your location in Bologna by private car or van and an English-speaking driver. At 10:00 AM, you’ll visit the Tenuta Bonzara winery for a guided tour and wine tasting.

After the visit to Tenuta Bonzara, you’ll head to the Az. Agr. Gradizzolo winery for a wine tasting and a delicious lunch featuring a local menu and wines. In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Monteveglio Abbey before continuing on to the Az. Agr. La Colombarola winery for another wine tasting.

The tour will conclude at around 6:30 PM, at which point you’ll be returned to your hotel in Bologna.

Day 5: Transfer From Bologna To Cinque Terre

Join your private guide for the transfer to Cinque Terre which will take just over 2.5 hours.

Cinque Terre Boat Tour

Join us on a tour of the Cinque Terre, starting with a ride on our “gozzo” boat from the Manarola marina. 

We will visit the secluded village of Corniglia, perched atop a rocky cliff, the picturesque Vernazza, and the largest of the Cinque Terre towns, Monterosso. Afterward, we will return to Riomaggiore, the first of the five villages as you travel from La Spezia. Before heading back to Manarola, we will have a short break where you can try snorkeling and explore the stunning underwater world of our clear blue seas.

Day 6: Transfer From Cinque Terre To Genoa

This transfer with your private chauffeur will take approx 1.5 hours.   

Genoa Street Food Tour

Join our Genoa street food tour to discover the local culinary culture and try some of the city’s most popular dishes. 

Led by locals, you’ll be taken to hidden gems known only to the residents. Indulge in fried fish, the best focaccia in town, and other savory pastries as you explore Genoa. Sample traditional pesto and other specialties, paired with local wine or artisanal beer. 

Finish off the tour with a traditional “caffè” and experience the relaxed rituals of the locals.

Day 7: Pick Up At Genoa & Transfer To Nice

Private transfer taking approx 3 hours.

Eze Village, Monaco & Monte Carlo Private Half-Day Trip From Nice

Your tour begins with pickup at your accommodation or hotel in Nice by your English-speaking guide. 

During the tour, you’ll visit the medieval village of Eze, perched above the sea and known for its charming narrow streets and artisanal atmosphere. The village has attracted artists and writers throughout the centuries, including the famous philosopher Nietzsche who is said to have written “Thus Spoke Zarathustra” here. 

After visiting Eze, your tour will continue on to Monaco. Take a walk through the narrow streets of the old town and witness the changing of the guards (on the morning tour). You’ll have the chance to visit the Neo-Romanesque Cathedral and the Memorial dedicated to Princess Grace and Rainier of Monaco. 

The tour will conclude in Monte Carlo, where you’ll see the famous Old Monte Carlo Casino, Hotel de Paris, Café de Paris, beautiful Gardens, and luxurious boutiques. On arrival or departure, you’ll have the opportunity to drive on the Formula 1 Monaco Grand Prix race track. The return trip to Nice will include the scenic coastal road.

Day 8: Tour of Nice

On your guided tour of Nice, your guide will take you to explore:

Promenade des Anglais – a famous waterfront boulevard in Nice, ideal for a leisurely stroll with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Old Town (Vieille Ville) – home to charming streets and squares, colorful houses, and lively markets.

Castle Hill (Colline du Château) – a hill overlooking the city with panoramic views and a ruined castle from the 16th century.

Matisse Museum – dedicated to the works of the French artist Henri Matisse, who lived in Nice for a period of time.

Notre Dame de Nice – a basilica in the Neo-Gothic style with stunning stained-glass windows and an ornate interior.

Place Massena – the central square of Nice, featuring fountains, statues, and a vibrant atmosphere.

Le Suquet – the historic district of Nice, with narrow streets, charming houses, and the famous Tour Bellanda tower.

Transfer to Marseille

Join your chauffeur for the 2.5-hour journey.

Day 9: Walking Tour of Marseille

On your guided tour of Marseille, your guide will take you to explore:

Old Port of Marseille – the historic port of the city, featuring a variety of restaurants, shops, and boat tours.

Notre Dame de la Garde – a Catholic basilica located on a hill overlooking the city, with panoramic views of the surroundings.

MuCEM (Musée des Civilisations de l’Europe et de la Méditerranée) – a museum dedicated to the cultures of Europe and the Mediterranean, with a variety of exhibits and events.

Calanques – a series of rocky cliffs and inlets along the Mediterranean coast, with beautiful beaches and hiking trails.

Le Panier – the oldest neighborhood in Marseille, known for its colorful houses, street art, and bohemian atmosphere.

La Canebière – a main street in Marseille, known for its shopping and dining options, as well as its historical significance.

Château d’If – a castle located on an island off the coast of Marseille, made famous by the novel “The Count of Monte Cristo” by Alexandre Dumas.

La Major – a basilica in the Romanesque style, with a rich history and a beautiful interior.

Parc Borély – a large park with gardens, sports facilities, and a racecourse.

Plage des Catalans – a popular beach in Marseille, known for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand.

Day 10: Pick Up At Marseille & Transfer To Narbonne

Your driver will collect you in the morning to make the 3-hour journey.

Walking Tour of Narbonne

Narbonne, located in the Aude department of Occitanie in southern France, is a hidden gem that offers a rich cultural experience. With a history dating back 2,500 years, Narbonne was the capital of the Narbonne region of Gaul, the residence of Visigoth kings, and the site of the Archbishops’ palace. 

Highlights from your private tour of Marseille include:

Cathedral of Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur – a cathedral located in the heart of the historic center of Narbonne, designated as a Historic Monument.

Archbishops’ Palace – a palace located in the historic center of Narbonne, also designated as a Historic Monument.

Canal du Midi – a canal located near Narbonne, with beautiful scenery and a rich history as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Narbonne Plage – a beach located near Narbonne, with crystal-clear waters and fine sand.

Musée de Narbonne – a museum dedicated to the history and culture of Narbonne, with a variety of exhibits.

La Cité de Carcassonne – a fortified city located near Narbonne, with a rich history and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Château des Ducs de Narbonne – a castle located in Narbonne, with a rich history and beautiful architecture.

Abbaye de Fontfroide – a monastery located near Narbonne, with beautiful gardens and a rich history.

Place de l’Hôtel de Ville – a square in Narbonne, known for its fountain and historical buildings.

Narbonne Food Market – a market in Narbonne, known for its fresh produce, local specialties, and lively atmosphere.

Transfer to Barcelona

End the day with the 2 hours and 40-minute journey to Barcelona.

Day 11: Guided Walking Tour of The Gothic Quarter

Start at the Plaça de Sant Jaume, the central square in the Gothic Quarter. This is a good starting point because it is surrounded by important landmarks, including the City Hall and the Catalan Government Palace.

Head west towards the Barcelona Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Take a tour of the interior, which features stained glass windows, stone carvings, and an impressive altar.

Continue walking west towards the Plaça del Rei, a historic square that was once the center of medieval Barcelona. This area is home to several important landmarks, including the Royal Palace and the Gothic Chapel, both of which are worth a visit.

From the Plaça del Rei, head north towards the Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, a small square with a beautiful church and a tranquil garden.

From the Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, head east towards the Roman walls, which date back to the 1st century AD. These ancient walls are a testament to Barcelona’s rich history.

From the Roman walls, head south towards the Plaça de Sant Just, a charming square with a beautiful fountain. From here, you can explore the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter, which are filled with charming boutiques, artisanal craft stores, and quaint restaurants.

As you explore the Gothic Quarter, be sure to keep an eye out for other landmarks, such as the Church of Santa Maria del Pi, the Picasso Museum, and the Palau de la Música Catalana.

End your tour at the Mercat de la Boqueria, a bustling food market that is a must-see for foodies. Here, you can sample a wide variety of local specialties and culinary delights.

Day 12: Montserrat and Llopart Winery & Cava Tasting (Sparkling Wine)

Start your tour by taking the cogwheel train from the base of the mountain to the monastery, located at the top. The train ride takes about 30 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Upon arrival at the monastery, take a guided tour of the grounds. This will allow you to learn about the history and significance of the monastery, as well as see some of the most important landmarks, including the Basilica of Montserrat and the museum.

After the guided tour, take some time to explore the monastery on your own. Be sure to visit the Black Madonna, a famous icon housed in the Basilica. You can also attend a performance by the Montserrat Boys’ Choir, which sings at the monastery several times a day.

From the monastery, take a short hike to the Sant Jeroni peak, the highest point in the mountain range. The hike takes about 1-2 hours round trip and offers panoramic views of the region.

After your hike, head back down to the base of the mountain and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the local restaurants. Be sure to try some traditional Catalan dishes, such as pa amb tomaquet (toasted bread with tomato and garlic) or esqueixada (shredded salt cod salad).

End your time in Montserrat with a visit to the Montserrat Art Museum, which features a collection of Catalan and Spanish art from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Llopart Winery

Begin your tour by being picked up at your location by your chauffeur. Sit back and relax as you are driven to Llopart Winery, located in the beautiful Penedès region of Catalonia.

Upon arrival at the winery, meet your private guide, who will lead you on a tour of the facility. Learn about the history and tradition of cava production, as well as the modern techniques used at Llopart.

As you tour the winery, your guide will take you through the different stages of cava production, including grape harvesting, fermentation, and aging.

After the tour, enjoy a private cava tasting in the winery’s tasting room. Savor a selection of cavas, ranging from young and fruity to aged and complex. Your guide will provide detailed tasting notes and explain the characteristics of each cava.

After the tasting, your chauffeur will be waiting to take you back to Barcelona.

Day 13: Gaudí Private Tour of Barcelona Including Sagrada Familia & Parc Güell

On this 4-hour tour, we will explore Modernisme, the Catalan version of Art Nouveau, and visit some of the most famous works of Antoni Gaudí, the renowned Catalan architect.

The Temple of the Sagrada Família is Gaudí’s iconic, yet incomplete masterpiece. In designing the basilica, Gaudí drew upon the traditions of Gothic and Byzantine cathedrals, creating a harmonious blend of form and Christian symbolism. His architecture was highly personal and innovative, incorporating natural shapes, structures, and geometries, and emphasizing the role of light and color.

We will also visit the magical Park Güell, a testament to Gaudí’s creativity and imagination. Commissioned by Catalan entrepreneur Eusebi Güell, this park is a major tourist attraction in Barcelona and was used for traditional Sardana dancing and other social events. Gaudí’s design perfectly complements this recreational space.

On the tour, we will also admire the façades and exteriors of Passeig de Gràcia, including the iconic Gaudí houses, such as Casa Milà (also known as “La Pedrera”) and Casa Batlló, which contribute to the distinct character of Barcelona.

Day 14: Girona & Dali Museum in Figueres

Drive Barcelona – Figueres: 1:45 h – 145 km

Drive Figueres – Girona: 40 m – 50 km

Drive Girona – Barcelona: 1.5 h – 128 km

Salvador Dalí’s hometown of Figueres is home to the Teatre-Museu, a collection of his works that offers an immersive journey into the world of Dalí. Full of imagination, eccentricity, and symbolism, Dalí’s world was like no other. On this tour, you will follow in his footsteps and visit some of the places that were most important to him.

Girona is a historic city located on a fortress-like hill overlooking the Onyar and Ter rivers. It has a rich history dating back to ancient Iberian and Roman times and is known for its Romanesque monasteries, Arab baths, Gothic architecture, charming squares, and the charming Jewish quarter, which retains much of its Kabbalistic mystery from the Middle Ages. The city’s 15th-century cathedral, with the widest unsupported Gothic arch in the world, is a major landmark. Girona is also known as the “city of four rivers” or “Little Florence” and is a fascinating place to explore with its labyrinthine cobbled streets and medieval atmosphere.

Day 15: Private Show-Cooking in Barcelona

Catalonia is known for its rich culinary traditions, featuring smoky spices, earthy stews, and fresh fish and vegetables. As a culinary destination, Barcelona boasts top chefs and world-class produce markets. In this culinary tour, you will have the opportunity to learn about the art of creating excellent regional dishes using great ingredients.

The tour begins with a visit to a local market, where chefs and locals have been carefully selecting produce for many years. You will then head to the kitchen, where a chef will guide you in preparing a delicious menu of local dishes. This hands-on cooking workshop is a fun way to discover the best of Catalan and Spanish cuisine and enjoy the meal that you have created.

The tour includes a market visit, a private cooking workshop, all ingredients and materials, a lunch with wine, and the guidance of knowledgeable and friendly experts.

Day 16: Half-Day Visit To Museu Picasso & Fundació Miró In Barcelona

Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró were two renowned Spanish artists who met in Barcelona during the height of the avant-garde era. 

The Museo Picasso in Barcelona, which opened in 1963, contains a collection of works from the formative years of Picasso’s career, including pieces from his Blue Period and the series Las Meninas. 

The Miró Foundation, founded by Catalan architect Josep Lluís Sert and opened in 1975, features paintings, sculptures, drawings, and ceramic and textile works by Miró, as well as contemporary art. 

The tour will include private guided visits to both museums, as well as tickets and private transportation. The tour will conclude with a visit to the Street Art Center Nou Bostik to see murals.

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Contact Us About A Custom Tour Across France, Italy, & Spain

Our Venice to Barcelona tour itinerary offers a unique opportunity to explore three of Europe’s most stunning and culturally rich countries. 

From the winding canals and stunning architecture of Venice to the vibrant art and cultural scene of Barcelona, this tour has something for everyone. 

If you’re interested in customizing this tour or planning a trip to other amazing destinations across Europe, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Travel by Luxe. Our team of experienced travel professionals will work with you to create a personalized and unforgettable travel experience.

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