Country Roads of Italy, a Women-Only Tour (Small Group, 16 Days)

"Business Class-style" coaches with fewer seats & increased legroom

5 Dinner with Wine (DW)

15 Breakfast (B)

Rome: Savour dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavours.

San Gimignano: Ascend serpentine alleyways to the artisan gelato parlour of world champion gelato maestro, Sergio Dondoli for a taste of his finest frozen treats.

Parma: At Ciaolatte Parmesan you will meet, Signor Paolo, a local passionate about Italian food and quality cheese. Witness the cheese-making and ageing process of Parmigiano-Reggiano.

Modena: Visit a producer of authentic balsamic vinegar.

Burano: Cruise to the charming fisherman's island of Burano to enjoy a delicious dinner with wine and new-found friends.

Lucca: Visit a traditional steam bakery and sample Buccellato, a sweet raisin bread.

Handpicked 4- and 5-star hotels in great locations

Siena: Visit the Basilica of St. Catherine with your Local Expert.

Siena: Enjoy a tasting of Panforte, a traditional Tuscan dessert containing fruits and nuts.

Perugia: Meet Marta, founder of weaving association that is owned and run by women. Learn how Marta offers employment opportunities for local women and, alongside her weavers, preserves the ancient craft of loom-weaving in an artisan workshop.In addition to safeguarding the unique patterns, the workshop contributes to the protection of Umbria’s cultural heritage. Most notably, the workshop actively empowers women and girls through its education and training programs, advancing Global Goal 5: Gender Equality and 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities.

Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft.  This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

Burano: Full of curiosities, the shimmering waters of the island of Burano and the Venice Lagoon will inspire the mind of any curious traveller. Embrace the scenery and feel part of the local community when you visit Burano with local artist and environmentalist Allison Zurfluh. Allison uses her passion for the environment to support the maintenance of the Venice lagoon and its endangered species. She'll introduce you to the local fishermen before a short boat ride to discover the life of the lagoon and understand why this area is such an inspiration both for her work to protect the indigenous wildlife and also as an artist. Upon returning to land, sip a glass of prosecco and see Allison’s artwork. This experience addresses United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5: Gender Equality, 14: Life Below Water, and 13: Climate Action.

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.

Rome: Visit the Colosseum, still echoing with the thronging crowds and ghostly cries of gladiatorial combat.

Sorrento: Perched upon the cliffs, lookout to see the mighty Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples.

Sorrento: Experience the social ritual of la passeggiata.

Capri: Cruise by jetfoil to this famous isle through beautiful blue Mediterranean waters.

Capri: Explore Capri town with your Local Expert and see the whitewashed houses, winding alleyways, small cafes, fashionable boutiques and artisans studios.

Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the Multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.

Florence: See the historic neighbourhood of the Santa Croce Basilica and witness local craftspersons at work during a gold and leatherwork demonstration.

San Gimignano: Visit the medieval Manhattan of Italy.

Cinque Terre: Led by your Local Expert, visit this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked away on the mountainous Italian Riviera coastline. Explore one of the five charming fishing villages for some memorable pictures.

Venice: Delight in the magic of this charming city as you glide along the canals by gondola.

Lucca: Explore the city of Lucca. Admire the churches, piazzas and palaces within the medieval ramparts.

Pompeii: Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the first century.

Assisi: See St. Mary of the Angels Church and join your Local Expert to walk through the cobbled streets to St. Clare's Church and see the cathedral.

Assisi: Discover why the Basilica of Saint Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of medieval Europe.

Perugia: Led by your Local Expert, your orientation will explore the Old Town and show you Priors' Palace, Collegio del Cambio, the cathedral, the Great Fountain and main square.

Rapolano Terme: Attracting health-seekers since the Etruscans, these hot springs offer healing and relaxation to countless guests. You’ll savour every moment of this opportunity to experience the therapeutic waters of the natural thermal spa reputed to restore both harmony and vitality to the body.

Florence: In Florence, discover the art of creating your own cocktail, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, with a master mixologist. Learn the tools of the trade and shake or stir your way to successful cocktail-making. Your creation is a rewarding and delicious end to this experience.

Torgiano: Visit an Umbrian winery where two sisters create outstanding wines. Founded by Giorgio Lungarotti, pioneer of modern Italian oenology, this winery supports quality production and sustainability. Today, the family legacy is carried on through the passion and skill of sisters Chiara and Teresa, their mother Maria Grazia and Teresa’s sons.

Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.