Italian Elegance (Small Groups, 12 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting multi-day tour through Italy, where history, art, and natural beauty converge. From the ancient wonders of Rome to the artistic treasures of Florence, and the serene landscapes of the Italian Lake District, each day offers a new adventure. Delight in the flavors of Tuscany, the elegance of the Ligurian coast, and the breathtaking vistas of the Dolomites. Conclude your journey in the romantic city of Venice, where timeless charm and vibrant culture await. This tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Italy's most iconic destinations, enriched with unique experiences and exquisite cuisine.
Included
11 nights in twin-share rooms at hand-picked hotels
5 Dinner (D)
11 Breakfast (B)
1 Lunch (L)
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.
Veneto: Visit a local winery and delight in a tasting of their magnificent prosecco. Meet the vignerons and learn how this local drink has come to rival its well-known counterpart in France.
Venice: Enjoy a true Venetian dining experience.
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 see 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, where Ancient Roman political life and law courts mingled with open-air markets and shops.
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.
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.
Baveno: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the cobbled streets and 16th century square.
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.
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Rome
- Rome - Arrival day
- More
- St. Clement Basilica
- Capitoline Museums
- Palatine Hill
- Colosseum
- Circus Maximus
- More
Welcome to the Eternal City, where ancient history and vibrant culture intertwine. Settle into your accommodations at the Hilton (or similar) and prepare for an unforgettable journey. As the sun sets, join your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a delightful dinner, savoring Italian cuisine paired with exquisite wine.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Rome's Treasures
- Rome
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- Sistine Chapel
- Vatican Museums
- Carriage Pavilion
- St Peter's Basilica
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Embark on a journey through Rome's iconic landmarks. Begin with a guided tour of the Vatican City, where you'll marvel at the Vatican Museums and the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. Continue to St. Peter's Basilica, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Cross the Tiber River to explore ancient Rome, passing by the Circus Maximus and the legendary 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, where art and history converge. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum to witness Michelangelo's David or stroll through the city's vibrant squares. Admire the intricate marble cathedral and the captivating Piazza della Signoria. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Piazza Santa Croce, indulging in local delicacies and people-watching.
Day 4 – Day 4: San Gimignano's Sweet Escape
- Florence
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- Strozzi Palace
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Wander through the enchanting alleys of San Gimignano, a town renowned for its medieval charm. Ascend the winding streets to the artisan gelato shop of world champion Sergio Dondoli, where you'll savor the finest frozen treats. Enjoy the picturesque views across the valley, capturing the essence of Tuscany.
Day 5 – Day 5: Pisa to Portofino
- Pisa
- Lucca
- Santa Margherita Ligure
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- St Martin Cathedral
- porto antico
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
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Journey through the scenic Chianti hills to Pisa, where you'll witness the iconic Leaning Tower and the splendid cathedral. Continue to the Ligurian coast, cruising to the elegant village of Portofino. Embrace the charm of Santa Margherita Ligure, a seaside resort epitomizing 'la dolce vita.'
Day 6 – Day 6: Exploring Cinque Terre
- La Spezia
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- Cinque Terre National Park
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Set sail from La Spezia to the breathtaking Cinque Terre, a collection of picturesque fishing villages. With a Local Expert, admire the vibrant houses and stunning coastal views. Savor a Sea-to-Table dining experience, followed by leisure time to explore the boutiques or relax in a charming café.
Day 7 – Day 7: Leisure at Lake Como
- Lecco
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Escape to the serene Italian Lake District, where Alpine beauty meets lush landscapes. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Lake Como, a favored retreat of the elite. Relax and unwind, taking in the breathtaking scenery and tranquil ambiance.
Day 8 – Day 8: Prosecco and the Dolomites
- Cortina d'Ampezzo
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- Palazzo Ricchieri, Pordenone
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Travel through the northern Italian countryside to Conegliano Veneto, a region famed for its sparkling wine. Delight in a taste of prosecco before continuing to the majestic Dolomites. Arrive at the mountain resort of Cortina d'Ampezzo, surrounded by stunning peaks.
Day 9 – Day 9: Adventure in the Dolomites
- Cortina d'Ampezzo
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- DoloMythos
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Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the pristine Alpine wilderness on foot or opt for a thrilling experience to the summit of a peak. Revel in the breathtaking panoramic views and the vibrant colors of this stunning mountain range.
Day 10 – Day 10: Venice's Romantic Allure
- Venice
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- Doge's Palace
- Piazza San Marco
- Bridge of Sighs
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Descend from the mountains to the enchanting city of Venice. Glide past ornate palaces on a private boat to St Mark's Square. Discover the grandeur of the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon, perhaps cruising to Burano for a meal of local specialties.
Day 11 – Day 11: Venetian Craft and Culture
- 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 craftsmanship of expert glassblowers. Spend the day exploring Venice's vibrant markets and hidden lanes. Conclude with a romantic gondola serenade, followed by a dinner of seasonal Venetian dishes.
Day 12 – Day 12: Departure from Venice
- Venice - Departure day
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Bid farewell to the magical city of Venice as your departure transfer takes you to Marco Polo Airport. Reflect on the unforgettable memories and experiences from your Italian adventure.
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