Country Roads of Italy (Classic, 16 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 16-day journey through Italy, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. This multi-day tour takes you from the ancient wonders of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, with stops in charming towns and picturesque regions along the way. Discover the rich heritage of the Eternal City, explore the stunning Amalfi Coast, and savor the culinary delights of Tuscany. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and immersive experiences, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Whether you're wandering through medieval streets, tasting world-renowned wines, or cruising along the Venetian Lagoon, each day promises new discoveries and unforgettable memories. Join us for an extraordinary exploration of Italy's most iconic destinations and hidden gems.
Included
5 Dinner (D)
15 Breakfast (B)
Rome: Savour dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavours.
Radda in Chianti: Learn what to look for in a quality vino rosso, and what foods to pair it with when ordering Florentine cuisine.
Lucca: Visit a traditional steam bakery and sample Buccellato, a sweet raisin bread.
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.
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
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.
Rome: The elegant 4-star Veneto Palace hotel is located in one of the most elegant parts of the historical centre.
Lucca: Set in a private park, the 4-star Villa La Principessa is an elegant hotel that offers a relaxed atmosphere.
Venice: The Hilton Molino Stucky Venice Hotel is located in a magnificently restored 19th century granary on Giudecca Island, only minutes away from St. Mark’s Square by boat. Amenities include a rooftop pool, spa and wellness centre, and five different restaurants and bars. Enjoy excellent views from the roof bar.
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.
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.
Perugia: Meet Marta, a recipient of a TreadRight Foundation grant. Learn how she offers employment opportunities for local women and, alongside her weavers, preserves the ancient craft of loom weaving in an artisan workshop.The workshop is owned by women and actively empowers women and girls through its education and training programs. Marta, and her students help to safeguard the unique patterns while contributing to the protection of Umbria’s cultural heritage. Laboratorio Guidetta Brozzetti advances UN Sustainable Development Goal 5: Gender Equality and UN Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities.
Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. 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.
Sorrento: Perched upon the cliffs, lookout to see the mighty Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples.
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.
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.
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.
Lucca: Explore the city of Lucca. Admire the churches, piazzas and palaces within the medieval ramparts.
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.
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: Rome
- Rome - Arrival day
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- Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
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Arrive in the eternal city of Rome, where ancient history meets vibrant modernity. Settle into your accommodation at Hilton (or similar) and prepare for an exclusive visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner with your fellow travelers, savoring the rich flavors of Roman cuisine.
Day 2 – Day 2: Rome
- Rome
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- St. Clement Basilica
- Colosseum
- Circus Maximus
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Embark on a journey through time in Rome. With a local expert, explore the iconic St. Peter's Basilica and marvel at the grandeur of the Vatican City. Cross the Tiber River to witness the historic Circus Maximus and delve into the fascinating history of the Colosseum. Imagine the echoes of ancient gladiators as you wander through this monumental arena.
Day 3 – Day 3: Rome to Sorrento
- Pompei
- Sorrento
- Rome
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- Mount Vesuvius
- Royal Palace of Naples
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Leave the bustling city of Rome behind as you journey south to the picturesque town of Sorrento. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and the majestic silhouette of Mount Vesuvius. Arrive in Sorrento, a charming resort town known for its stunning coastal scenery and warm hospitality.
Day 4 – Day 4: Sorrento to Capri
- Capri
- Sorrento
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- Piazzetta di Capri
- Marina Lobra
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Cross the sparkling waters of the Bay of Naples to the enchanting Isle of Capri. Ascend to the town of Capri and explore its charming alleyways, exclusive boutiques, and breathtaking views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Return to Sorrento by funicular railway and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Day 5 – Day 5: Sorrento to Todi via Pompeii
- Sorrento
- Portici
- Todi
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- Piazza del Comune
- Amphitheatre of Pompeii
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Travel to the ancient city of Pompeii and explore its remarkably preserved ruins with a local expert. Continue your journey to the medieval town of Todi, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, accompanied by a glass of Orvieto Classico wine.
Day 6 – Day 6: Todi
- Todi
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- Amphitheatre of Pompeii
- Town hall
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Immerse yourself in the enchanting medieval ambiance of Todi. Wander through its picturesque streets, admire the historic architecture, and enjoy stunning views of the Umbrian countryside. Take the day at your own pace, soaking in the charm of this delightful town.
Day 7 – Day 7: Todi to Perugia via Assisi
- Todi
- Assisi
- Perugia
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- Cathedral of San Rufino
- Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi
- Chiesa del Gesù
- Porta Romana
- Mount Subasio
- Etruscan Arch
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Visit the spiritual town of Assisi, where you will see St. Clare's Church and the magnificent Basilica of St. Francis. Continue to Perugia, the jewel of Umbria, and explore its historic streets with a local guide. Discover the Collegio del Cambio, Priors' Palace, and the Cathedral, all nestled in the heart of the city.
Day 8 – Day 8: Perugia and Optional Cortona
- Perugia
- Cortona
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- Porta Sole
- National Gallery
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Engage in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience by visiting an artisanal workshop in Perugia. Meet Marta, a weaver preserving the ancient craft of loom-weaving. Spend the rest of your day at leisure or opt for a visit to Cortona, one of Tuscany's oldest hill towns, where you can explore its historic center and enjoy views of Lake Trasimeno.
Day 9 – Day 9: Perugia to Florence
- Perugia
- Florence
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- Palazzo Vecchio
- Basilica of Santa Croce in Florence
- piazza della Signoria
- Pieve di Santa Maria
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Travel to the Renaissance city of Florence and explore its artistic treasures with a local expert. Visit the stunning Florence Cathedral and the iconic Piazza della Signoria. Enjoy leisure time to wander around the Palazzo Vecchio and the Santa Croce Basilica, known for its exquisite craftsmanship in gold and leather.
Day 10 – Day 10: Florence to San Gimignano via Siena
- Florence
- Siena
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- Basilica of San Domenico
- SanGimignano1300
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Explore the medieval charm of Siena, choosing between a visit to the Basilica of St. Catherine or sampling the traditional Tuscan dessert, panforte. Continue to the hilltop town of San Gimignano, known for its striking towers. Delight in the award-winning gelato creations of Sergio Dondoli before returning to your hotel.
Day 11 – Day 11: Florence to Lucca
- Florence
- Lucca
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- Walls of Lucca
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Travel to the charming city of Lucca, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Stroll through its historic streets, savoring the local specialty, buccellato, a sweet raisin anise bread. Take the opportunity to explore the nearby city of Pisa, famous for its iconic Leaning Tower.
Day 12 – Day 12: Lucca to Cinque Terre
- Lucca
- Framura
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- Cinque Terre National Park
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Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage site comprising five picturesque villages. Join a local expert to explore one of these charming fishing villages and enjoy a scenic cruise along the rugged coastline. Return to your hotel in Lucca for a relaxing evening.
Day 13 – Day 13: Lucca to Parma
- Lucca
- Parma
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- Palazzo Ducale di Parma
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Journey to the gastronomic haven of Parma, renowned for its exquisite ham and cheese. Meet a local expert, Paolo, who will guide you through the process of making Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Enjoy a tasting of this world-famous cheese, paired with a glass of fine wine.
Day 14 – Day 14: Parma to Venice via Modena
- Parma
- Modena
- Venice
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- Venetian Arsenal
- Modena Cathedral
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Visit a top producer of traditional balsamic vinegar in Modena and participate in a master class to learn about this exquisite product. Continue your journey to the enchanting city of Venice. Experience a serenaded gondola ride through the city's atmospheric canals, gliding past water-lapped doorways and rococo palaces.
Day 15 – Day 15: Venice
- Venice
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- Punta Sabbioni's Lighthouse
- Doge's Palace
- Piazza San Marco
- Burano
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Engage in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience by visiting a traditional glassblowing workshop in Venice. Witness the artistry of expert glassblowers and explore the iconic St. Mark's Square. In the evening, cruise to the colorful island of Burano for a sumptuous dinner featuring local specialties.
Day 16 – Day 16: Departure from Venice
- Venice - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable Italian journey with a transfer to Venice Marco Polo Airport for your departure. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during this enchanting multi-day tour of Italy.
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