Italian Elegance (Classic, 12 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey through Italy's most iconic cities and landscapes. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, art, and gastronomy. From the ancient ruins of Rome to the romantic canals of Venice, each day presents a new adventure. Marvel at the Renaissance masterpieces in Florence, taste the finest gelato in a charming village, explore the picturesque Cinque Terre, and enjoy the serene beauty of the Italian Lake District. This tour is designed to provide an immersive experience, complete with local expert guides, authentic dining experiences, and comfortable accommodations. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or an art enthusiast, this tour has something for everyone.
Included
6 Dinner with Wine (DW)
11 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Rome: Savour regional flavours and embrace Rome's rich culinary heritage as you toast to the Eternal City over your Roman dinner.
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.
Lucca: Visit a traditional steam bakery and sample Buccellato, a sweet raisin bread.
Venice: Enjoy a special Venetian dinner, situated in the heart of this historic city.
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
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.
Vatican: Visit the Vatican Museums, witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and view the splendid dome of St. Peter's Basilica.
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, and stand beside the Colosseum, which bears witness to the limitless courage of the gladiators.
Florence: Enjoy a stroll through Renaissance Florence and admire the medieval buildings that gave birth to this new style of architecture.
San Gimignano: Visit the medieval Manhattan of Italy.
Lucca: Explore the city of Lucca. Admire the churches, piazzas and palaces within the medieval ramparts.
Portofino: Cruise from Santa Margherita and get a taste of the sweet life in this elegant resort.
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.
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Florence: Take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce and immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita of Florence while you enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local cafe.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Pisa: During your orientation, your Travel Director will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, and the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th-century cathedral - the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Cortina d'Ampezzo: Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Cortina, a small town framed by magnificent alps as your Travel Director conducts an orientation.
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.
Tuscany: The Borgo San Luigi is a restored 17th century country palazzo, once owned by the Duchy of Tuscany, offering high-quality service in a peaceful setting in the heart of the Tuscan countryside.
Cortina d'Ampezzo Encircled by the beautiful Dolomite Alps, Cortina's delightful Hotel Ancora is built in the characteristic Ampezzano style with wooden balconies and intricately carved and painted interior details.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Rome
- Rome - Arrival day
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- St. Clement Basilica
- Capitoline Museums
- Palatine Hill
- Colosseum
- Circus Maximus
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Welcome to the Eternal City, Rome, where ancient history meets vibrant modernity. As you settle into your accommodation (Hilton or similar), prepare for an evening of culinary delights. Join your Travel Director and fellow adventurers for a delightful dinner paired with exquisite wine, setting the tone for the days ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Rome's Treasures
- Rome
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- St. Clement Basilica
- Capitoline Museums
- Palatine Hill
- Colosseum
- Circus Maximus
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Embark on a journey through Rome's illustrious past. Begin with a guided exploration of the Vatican City, where you'll bypass the crowds to witness the awe-inspiring Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel. Marvel at Michelangelo's frescoes before visiting the majestic St. Peter's Basilica. Later, cross the Tiber River to delve into ancient Rome, passing by the Circus Maximus and the iconic Colosseum.
Day 3 – Day 3: Florence's Artistic Splendor
- Florence
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- Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- piazza della Signoria
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Venture into the heart of Florence, a city renowned for its Renaissance art and architecture. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum to admire Michelangelo's David or explore the vibrant Piazza della Signoria. Stroll through the historic streets, pausing at Piazza Santa Croce for a taste of Italian delicacies in a local café. Witness the craftsmanship of leather and goldsmith artisans, a testament to Florence's rich heritage.
Day 4 – Day 4: San Gimignano's Sweet Delights
- Florence
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- Tower of Mangia
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Wander through the enchanting alleyways of San Gimignano, a medieval town with breathtaking vistas. Ascend the winding paths to the renowned gelato parlour of Sergio Dondoli, where you'll savor award-winning frozen treats crafted by a world champion gelato maestro.
Day 5 – Day 5: Pisa to Portofino
- Pisa
- Portofino
- Santa Margherita Ligure
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- St Martin Cathedral
- Porta San Pietro
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
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Journey through the picturesque Chianti hills to Pisa, where you'll witness the architectural marvel of the Leaning Tower, alongside the splendid cathedral and baptistery. Continue to the Ligurian coast, cruising to the charming village of Portofino, epitomizing 'la dolce vita.' Conclude the day in the seaside town of Santa Margherita Ligure.
Day 6 – Day 6: The Beauty of Cinque Terre
- La Spezia
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- Cinque Terre National Park
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Set sail from La Spezia to explore the stunning landscapes of Cinque Terre, a collection of picturesque fishing villages. With a local expert, enjoy breathtaking views and indulge in a Sea-to-Table dining experience. Spend leisurely hours wandering through vibrant streets, browsing boutiques, or relaxing in a café, soaking in the coastal charm.
Day 7 – Day 7: Serenity in the Lake District
- La Spezia
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Travel north to the serene Italian Lake District, a haven for tranquility and natural beauty. Nestled amidst Alpine scenery, this region offers a perfect retreat for relaxation. Spend the afternoon at leisure, enjoying the lush landscapes and the calming ambiance of this popular resort area.
Day 8 – Day 8: Prosecco and the Dolomites
- Cortina d'Ampezzo
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- Palazzo Ricchieri, Pordenone
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Embark on a scenic drive through northern Italy's countryside to the renowned Prosecco vineyards of Conegliano Veneto. Savor the crisp and aromatic flavors of Italy's prized sparkling wine. Continue your journey through the majestic Dolomites, arriving at the mountain resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo.
Day 9 – Day 9: Exploring the Dolomites
- Cortina d'Ampezzo
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- Paladolomites
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Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With a day free to explore, choose from numerous walking trails through pristine Alpine wilderness or opt for an exhilarating ascent to a mountain summit for panoramic views. Revel in the natural splendor of this remarkable landscape.
Day 10 – Day 10: Venice's Enchantment
- Venice
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- Doge's Palace
- Piazza San Marco
- Bridge of Sighs
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Descend from the mountains to the romantic city of Venice. Glide through the canals on a private boat, arriving at the iconic St Mark's Square. Explore the grandeur of the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Check into your luxurious hotel (Sofitel or similar) and enjoy an afternoon at leisure. Consider a cruise to Burano for a meal of local specialties.
Day 11 – Day 11: Venetian Artistry and Romance
- Venice
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- Rialto Bridge
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Engage in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at a traditional arts center, witnessing the skill of expert glassblowers. Enjoy free time to explore Venice's enchanting atmosphere at your own pace. Visit the bustling markets near the Rialto Bridge and wander through hidden lanes. Conclude your day with a romantic gondola serenade, followed by a dinner of seasonal Venetian dishes.
Day 12 – Day 12: Farewell to Venice
- Venice - Departure day
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As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, your departure transfer will take you to Venice Marco Polo airport. Reflect on the memories made and the beauty experienced throughout this remarkable multi-day tour.
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