Best of Italy (Classic, Winter, 11 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through Italy, where history, art, and culture converge in a symphony of experiences. From the ancient wonders of Rome to the Renaissance marvels of Florence, each day unveils a new chapter in Italy's rich tapestry. Traverse the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, explore the serene beauty of Assisi, and savor the coastal charm of Sorrento. Delight in the timeless allure of Venice's canals and the enchanting Isle of Capri. This journey promises to captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories of Italy's unparalleled beauty.
Included
1 Dinner (D)
10 Breakfast (B)
4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Rome: Savour dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavours.
Florence: Experience local Florentine flavours while relaxing over dinner with wine.
Rome: Enjoy a Celebration Dinner of delicious Italian cuisine and wine, accompanied by the rich tremolo of some of Italy's best loved songs.
Vesuvius National Park: Visit Casa Barone, a small family-run farm on the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius and one of the world’s only producers of Piennolo tomatoes. Learn about their commitment to sustainability and taste the flavours of this special tomato during your Farm-to-Table lunch. Casa Barone cultivates the endangered endemic food species of Piennolo tomato as well as other traditional elements of the classic Vesuvian Countryside, using cultivation methods with low environmental impact. Through their production the farm prevents the local biodiversity from disappearing. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Assisi: Hotel Giotto Assisi is located in the centre of the medieval village of Assisi with beautiful views over the Umbrian countryside. Guest rooms are decorated in local Umbrian style.
Choose between two carefully selected activities
Florence: Stand beside Michelangelo's monumental statue, 'David', in the Accademia Gallery, and admire the exquisite technique and absorbing history behind the world's most famous sculpture.
Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Rome: Discover ancient treasures of Rome with a passionate local. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, where Ancient Roman political life and law courts mingled with open-air markets and shops.
Florence: See the historic neighbourhood of the Santa Croce Basilica and witness local craftspersons at work during a gold and leatherwork demonstration.
Florence: Enjoy a stroll through Renaissance Florence and admire the medieval buildings that gave birth to this new style of architecture.
Venice: Delight in the magic of this charming city as you glide along the canals by gondola.
Assisi: See St. Mary of the Angels Church and join your Local Expert to walk through the cobbled streets and beautifully preserved medieval laneways of this quaint town.
Assisi: With a Local Expert, find out why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of Europe.
Capri: Cruise by jetfoil to this famous isle through beautiful blue Mediterranean waters.
Capri: Explore Capri town with your Local Expert and see the whitewashed houses, winding alleyways, small cafes, fashionable boutiques and artisans studios.
Pompeii: Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the first century.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Rome
- Rome - Arrival day
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- Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
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Begin your Italian adventure in the heart of Rome, a city that seamlessly blends ancient history with vibrant modern life. Settle into your accommodation at the Hilton (or similar) and prepare for an evening of cultural immersion. Join your Travel Director for an exclusive visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, where you'll be captivated by the stunning Byzantine mosaics. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Roman cuisine while mingling with fellow travelers.
Day 2 – Day 2: Explore the Eternal City
- Rome
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- St. Clement Basilica
- Capitoline Museums
- Palatine Hill
- Arch of Constantine
- Colosseum
- Circus Maximus
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Dive into the rich tapestry of Rome's history with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, home to an unparalleled collection of art treasures. Marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel before visiting the awe-inspiring St. Peter's Basilica. Cross the Tiber River to explore ancient Rome, where you'll witness the grandeur of the Circus Maximus and the Arch of Constantine. Conclude your day with a stroll around the iconic Colosseum, absorbing the tales of gladiators and emperors.
Day 3 – Day 3: Discover Florence's Artisan Heritage
- Florence
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- Antica Giostra Toscana
- Brunelleschi's dome
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Travel to the enchanting city of Florence, nestled in the picturesque Chianti Hills. Upon arrival, delve into the world of traditional Florentine craftsmanship with a visit to a renowned leather workshop. Gain insight into the meticulous techniques passed down through generations, and witness a captivating gold demonstration showcasing local artistry. In the evening, indulge in a sumptuous meal at a local restaurant, savoring the rich flavors of Florentine cuisine.
Day 4 – Day 4: Florence's Renaissance Marvels
- Florence
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- Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- piazza della Signoria
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Embark on a journey through Florence's artistic legacy with a visit to the Accademia Museum, home to Michelangelo's iconic David. Continue to the Piazza della Signoria, an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely stroll to Piazza Santa Croce, where you can savor a typical Italian treat while admiring the basilica. In the afternoon, consider a scenic drive to the medieval town of San Gimignano, renowned for its historic towers.
Day 5 – Day 5: From Pisa to Venice
- Pisa
- Venice
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- Sanctuary of Montenero
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
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Journey to the coastal town of Pisa, where you'll marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles. Continue your adventure through the scenic Emilia-Romagna region, crossing the majestic Apennine Mountains. Arrive in the enchanting city of Venice, where you'll check into your centrally located hotel. As evening descends, enjoy a tranquil dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the unique flavors of Venetian cuisine.
Day 6 – Day 6: Venice's Timeless Beauty
- Venice
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- Doge's Palace
- Piazza San Marco
- Bridge of Sighs
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Embark on a private boat cruise through Venice's captivating canals, passing by historic churches and palaces. Arrive near St Mark's Square and explore the iconic landmarks, including the Bridge of Sighs and the majestic Doge's Palace. Delight in a traditional gondola ride, serenaded by the enchanting melodies of Venice. Participate in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, witnessing the artistry of expert glassblowers as they craft exquisite pieces using age-old techniques.
Day 7 – Day 7: Spiritual Serenity in Assisi
- Assisi
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- Church of Saint Mary of Consolation
- Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi
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Travel to the serene town of Assisi, renowned for its medieval churches and vibrant frescoes. Visit the Church of St. Mary of the Angels, a revered site in the valley. Ascend Mount Subasio to explore the upper town, where you'll step inside the grand Basilica of St. Francis. Marvel at the frescoes by Giotto, heralding a new era in Italian art. Enjoy free time to wander the charming streets of the medieval Old Town, discovering quaint shops and local treasures.
Day 8 – Day 8: Scenic Sorrento Coast
- Sorrento
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Journey south through the picturesque landscapes of Italy, passing the historic site of Cassino. Arrive at the stunning Sorrento coast, where your hotel offers breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. Spend the afternoon at leisure, exploring the charming surroundings or relaxing in the comfort of your accommodations. Enjoy the serene ambiance of this coastal paradise.
Day 9 – Day 9: Enchanting Isle of Capri
- Capri
- Sorrento
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- Marina Lobra
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Cross the Bay of Naples to the enchanting Isle of Capri, a haven of natural beauty and historical allure. Ascend to Capri town with a Local Expert, exploring its narrow alleyways and captivating vistas. Descend to the port by funicular railway and return to Sorrento, where you have the afternoon at leisure. Consider a visit to Positano for a scenic exploration of the vibrant Amalfi Coast.
Day 10 – Day 10: Ancient Pompeii and Culinary Delights
- Portici
- Rome
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- Chiesa di Santa Maria ad Martyres
- Casa Malaparte
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Explore the ancient ruins of Pompeii, where a guided walk reveals the daily life of Roman civilization preserved by volcanic ash. Visit the Forum and admire the colorful frescoes in patrician villas. Participate in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at Vesuvius National Park, visiting Casa Barone, a family-run farm producing rare Piennolo tomatoes. Savor a Farm-to-Table lunch, enjoying the unique flavors of this endangered fruit. Conclude your journey in Rome with an elegant dinner accompanied by a private opera performance.
Day 11 – Day 11: Farewell to Italy
- Rome - Departure day
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As your Italian odyssey comes to an end, reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes that have left an indelible mark on your heart. Bid farewell to the enchanting cities and historic landmarks, carrying with you the cherished memories of Italy's timeless allure.
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