Grand Italy & Sicily (Classic, 17 Days)

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Description

Summary

Starts
Rome
Duration
17 days
Languages
English
Minimum age
5 years

Description

Embark on an unforgettable 17-day journey through Italy, exploring its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the ancient wonders of Rome to the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast, this multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of guided experiences and leisure time. Discover iconic landmarks, savor authentic Italian cuisine, and immerse yourself in the local traditions. With expert guides and comfortable accommodations, you'll experience the best of Italy, from the bustling streets of Florence to the serene shores of Lake Maggiore. Join us for an adventure that promises to create lasting memories and a deep appreciation for this enchanting country.

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Included

1 Dinner (D)

16 Breakfast (B)

7 Dinner with Wine (DW)

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

Florence: Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with delicious local wine, a specialty not to be missed.

Alberobello: Learn about local life while savouring a freshly prepared Farm-to-Table meal featuring recipes and flavours typical of the region.

Palermo: Experience local customs as you delve into tantalising flavours and rustic dishes served with local wine.

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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.

Pisa: Your Local Expert will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, and the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th-century cathedral - the famous Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles.

Cinque Terre: Led by your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site with dedicated time to explore one of the charming fishing villages.

Portofino: Visit this elegant fishing village and admire the coloured houses and yachts moored in the harbour.

Lake Maggiore: Experience the charming traditional social ritual of la passeggiata in the Italian Lake District. All across Italy, in cities, towns and villages people leave their houses to gently walk streets, from babies in strollers to the most senior citizens. Savour a gelato or glass of wine along the way and observe, as new romances, new babies and new shoes are all put on display. Note the ever-stylish Italians love to dress up for the occasion so feel free add a touch of flair to your outfit!

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

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.

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

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.

Matera: With your Local Expert explore this town that Mel Gibson chose as the setting for his film 'The Passion of the Christ.'

Alberobello: Led by your Local Expert, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Trulli of Alberobello. Circular structures with conical roofs that are domed within, built from local limestone and stacked without using mortar

Alberobello: Led by a Local Expert, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Trulli of Alberobello. Circular structures with conical roofs that are domed within, built from local limestone and stacked without using mortar.

Messina: Cross the Straights of Messina to Sicily by ferry.

Taormina: Visit the ancient Greek Amphitheatre with your Local Expert. Set on a cliff, open to the sky, take your seats and enjoy the view through the crumbling arches to Mount Etna.

Taormina: Visit Taormina with a Local Expert and enjoy free time to stroll along Corso Umberto to Piazza IX Aprile.

Palermo: Discover the Sicilian capital with your Local Expert. See Pretoria Square and the 16th century fountain. View the composite architectural styles of the Palermo Cathedral and visit the Palatine Chapel.

Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

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Rome: Located in the heart of Rome, the luxurious Hotel Romanico Palace offers easy access to all the historical sites of the Eternal City.

Alberobello: The Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

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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.

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Destinations

Aerial panoramic cityscape of Rome, Italy, Europe. Roma is the capital of Italy. Cityscape of Rome in summer. Rome roofs view with ancient architecture in Italy. Rome
Portofino
Florence Aerial View of Ponte Vecchio Bridge during Beautiful Sunny Day, ItalyFlorence
Pisa - city in ItalyPisa
Framura
photo of breathtaking aerial view of Sorrento city, Amalfi coast, Italy.Sorrento
Alberobello
Photo of aerial view of Capri island in a beautiful summer day in Italy.Capri
Murgecchia
Monterosso al Mare
Santa Margherita Ligure
Famous buildings, gondolas and monuments by the Rialto Bridge of Venice on the Grand Canal, Italy.Venice
Photo of Isola Bella rocky island in Taormina, Italy.Taormina

Map

Attractions

photo of Ruins of the Ancient Greek Theater in Taormina on a sunny summer day with the mediterranean sea. Province of Messina, Sicily, southern Italy.Greek - Roman theatre
photo of Side View with the Bell Tower of the Basilica of San Clemente in the Center of Rome on a Background of Partly Cloudy Sky,Rome Italy.St. Clement Basilica
Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano, San Gimignano, Siena, Tuscany, ItalyPiazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
photo of Michelangelo Capitoline Steps to Piazza Campidoglio on Capitoline Hill, Rome, Italy.Capitoline Museums
Roman ruins in Rome, ItalyPalatine Hill
Cinque Terre National Park, Vernazza, La Spezia, Liguria, ItalyCinque Terre National Park
Amphitheatre of PompeiiAmphitheatre of Pompeii
photo of Night view of piazza San Marco and Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) in Venice, Italy. Architecture and landmark of Venice. Night cityscape of Venice .Doge's Palace
photo of sunrise in san marco square with campanile and san marco's basilica. Panorama of the main square of the old town. Venice, Italy.Piazza San Marco
photo of Galleria dell'Accademia in Venice, Italy.Galleria dell'Accademia
Trulli di Alberobello Puglia
Palazzo Corvaja
photo of Arch of Constantine .Arch of Constantine
photo of square of signoria in florence at sunrise, Italy.piazza della Signoria
Piazzetta di Capri
photo of porto antico
photo of Colosseum in Rome at sunrise, Italy, Europe.Colosseum
Photo of sunrise in San Marco square with Campanile and San Marco's Basilica, the main square of the old town, Venice, Veneto Italy.St Mark's Basilica
Palazzina Cinese
photo of The traditional bridge of the sighs of Barranco in Lima-PERU .Bridge of Sighs
photo of ancient Palatine and ground of Circus Maximus on Palatine Hill in Rome, Italy.Circus Maximus
photo of view of Palermo, Italy at the Palermo Cathedral, Palermo, Italy.Palermo Cathedral
photo of medieval leaning tower of pisa (Torre di pisa) at piazza dei miracoli (Piazza del duomo), Tuscany, Italy.Leaning Tower of Pisa

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Rome

  • Rome - Arrival day
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  • Archbasilica of St. John Lateran
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Begin your Italian adventure in the eternal city of Rome, where ancient history meets vibrant modern life. Settle into your accommodations at a charming local hotel (or similar) before embarking on a private tour of the Basilica of Saint Praxedes. Here, you'll be warmly welcomed by the Rector, offering a unique insight into this historical gem. Conclude your day by savoring authentic Roman cuisine at a local restaurant, where you'll have the chance to meet and mingle with fellow travelers.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Rome's Historical Marvels

  • Rome
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  • Palatine Hill
  • Arch of Constantine
  • Colosseum
  • Circus Maximus
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Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Rome's history with a guided exploration led by a Local Expert. Begin your journey at the Vatican City, then cross the Tiber River to witness the grandeur of ancient Rome. Marvel at the Circus Maximus and the Arch of Constantine before delving into the fascinating history of the Colosseum. As you wander through these iconic sites, let your imagination transport you to the days of gladiators and emperors. In the afternoon, consider extending your exploration to the Pantheon and Rome's enchanting piazzas and fountains.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: From Rome to Pisa and Santa Margherita Ligure

  • Rome
  • Pisa
  • Santa Margherita Ligure
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  • St Martin Cathedral
  • Porta San Pietro
  • Leaning Tower of Pisa
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Embark on a scenic drive through the picturesque Italian countryside, adorned with cypress trees, vineyards, and olive groves. Arrive in Pisa, where a Local Expert will guide you through the Square of Miracles. Marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower, the majestic cathedral, and the intricately designed baptistery. Continue your journey to the charming seaside town of Santa Margherita Ligure, where you'll unwind at your hotel (or similar) and enjoy the serene coastal ambiance.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Discovering the Cinque Terre and Portofino

  • Santa Margherita Ligure
  • Framura
  • Monterosso al Mare
  • Portofino
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  • Cinque Terre National Park
  • Monte Penna
  • porto antico
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Venture to the breathtaking Cinque Terre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rugged beauty and charming villages. Weather permitting, enjoy a boat ride to Monterosso, where you can explore the medieval quarter or relax on the sandy beach. Continue to the picturesque village of Portofino, famous for its vibrant houses and luxurious yachts. Spend time browsing the boutiques or sipping coffee at a cafe bar on the piazzetta. Conclude your day with a scenic cruise along the Ligurian coast back to your hotel in Santa Margherita.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Tranquility at Lake Maggiore

  • Santa Margherita Ligure
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  • Isola dei Pescatori
  • Lake Maggiore Zipline
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Travel north to the serene Lake Maggiore, nestled in the Italian Lakes District. Arrive in the quaint town of Baveno, known for its cobbled streets and charming square. Settle into your hotel (or similar) and take in the breathtaking scenery. In the afternoon, consider joining an optional cruise to Isola Bella, where you can explore the opulent palace and admire the meticulously maintained Italian gardens.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Journey to Venice

  • Venice
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  • Soave Castle
  • Gate Of Thanks
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Continue your Italian journey through the picturesque Soave vineyards and past the historic city of Padua. Arrive in the enchanting city of Venice, where the canals and stunning architecture await. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner with your fellow travelers, savoring the flavors of Venetian cuisine.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Venice's Timeless Beauty

  • Venice
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  • Doge's Palace
  • Piazza San Marco
  • Murano
  • Bridge of Sighs
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Embark on a private boat tour through Venice's canals, passing by magnificent churches and palaces that showcase the city's rich architectural history. Arrive near St Mark's Square and stroll along the waterfront, taking in the iconic Bridge of Sighs and the grand Doge's Palace. Explore the splendor of St Mark's Basilica before enjoying a romantic gondola ride through the canals. Later, visit the island of Murano to witness the artistry of glassblowers, preserving ancient techniques in their craft.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Renaissance Florence

  • Venice
  • Florence
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  • Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
  • Galleria dell'Accademia
  • piazza della Signoria
  • Pieve di Santa Maria
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Bid farewell to Venice and journey to the heart of the Renaissance, Florence. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum to admire Michelangelo's David or explore the city's architectural marvels, including the Florence Cathedral and the Piazza della Signoria. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely stroll to Piazza Santa Croce, where you can indulge in a typical Italian treat at a local cafe. In the evening, savor a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner, perfectly paired with local wine.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Leisure in Florence

  • Florence
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Begin your day with a captivating demonstration of traditional Florentine leather craftsmanship. With the rest of the day at your leisure, take the opportunity to explore Florence's vibrant streets, shop for exquisite leather goods, or join an optional excursion to the picturesque hilltop town of San Gimignano.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: From Florence to Pompeii and Sorrento

  • Florence
  • Sorrento
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  • Amphitheatre of Pompeii
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Travel south through the scenic volcanic hills of Frascati to the ancient city of Pompeii. Here, a Local Expert will guide you through the remarkably preserved streets, offering a glimpse into life during the Roman Empire. Continue along the stunning clifftop road to the resort town of Sorrento, where you'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Enchantment on the Isle of Capri

  • Sorrento
  • Capri
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  • Piazzetta di Capri
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Cross the Bay of Naples to the enchanting Isle of Capri, a destination that has captivated visitors for centuries. Arrive at Marina Grande by boat and ascend to Capri town. Explore the charming alleyways and enjoy the stunning views before descending to the port via funicular railway for your return to Sorrento. In the afternoon, consider exploring the breathtaking Amalfi Coast.

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Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Discovering Matera and Alberobello

  • Sorrento
  • Murgecchia
  • Alberobello
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  • La Rotonda
  • Sassi di Matera
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Embark on a journey to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, explore the extraordinary Sassi of Matera, ancient dwellings carved into the rock. Learn about their fascinating history and significance. Continue to Alberobello, where you'll spend the next two nights. Here, you'll be captivated by the unique trulli, circular stone structures with conical roofs.

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Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: The Trulli of Alberobello

  • Alberobello
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  • Crypt of the Redeemer
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Delve into the unique architecture of the trulli in Alberobello with a Local Expert. These fascinating structures are built from local limestone and feature conical roofs. In the evening, enjoy a freshly prepared Farm to Table dinner, savoring the flavors of the region while learning about local life and traditions.

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Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: From Alberobello to Sicily

  • Alberobello
  • Taormina
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  • Pool of Venus
  • Carafa Castle
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Travel south along the Gulf of Taranto to the mountainous Calabria region. Continue along the Purple Coast to the Straits of Messina, where ancient legends speak of treacherous whirlpools. Board a ferry to Sicily and journey to the beautiful Taormina Riviera, where you'll spend the night.

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Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Leisure in Taormina

  • Taormina
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  • Greek - Roman theatre
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Enjoy a day at leisure in the stunning Taormina Riviera. Relax and explore at your own pace, or consider joining an optional excursion to the majestic Mt. Etna, Europe's highest active volcano.

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Day 16

Day 16 – Day 16: Discovering Palermo

  • Taormina
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  • Palazzo Abatellis
  • Palermo Cathedral
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Travel to Palermo, the vibrant capital of Sicily. A Local Expert will guide you through the city's highlights, including the impressive Palermo Cathedral and the stunning Palatine Chapel, adorned with ancient mosaics. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Sicilian cuisine.

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Day 17

Day 17 – Day 17: Departure from Palermo

Day 17: Departure from Palermo

As your incredible Italian journey comes to an end, bid farewell to your fellow travelers. Departure transfers will take you to Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport for your onward journey.

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