Italian Escapade (Classic, 13 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day journey through Italy, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. This multi-day tour invites you to explore the timeless beauty of Rome, the artistic treasures of Florence, the romantic allure of Venice, and the stunning coastal vistas of Sorrento and Capri. From the ancient ruins of Pompeii to the serene shores of Lake Maggiore, each day offers a new adventure filled with iconic landmarks, exquisite cuisine, and enriching experiences. With expert guides and carefully curated itineraries, you'll delve into the heart of Italy's most captivating destinations, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you're savoring a traditional Italian meal, marveling at Renaissance masterpieces, or cruising the canals of Venice, this tour promises an immersive and enchanting exploration of Italy's rich heritage and vibrant culture.
Included
7 Dinner with Wine (DW)
12 Breakfast (B)
Florence: Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with delicious local wine, a specialty not to be missed.
Lake Maggiore: For your Dine-Around evening, choose from a selection of hand-picked restaurants featuring regional delicacies.
Lake Iseo: Learn about this historic winery, passed down through the generations, and taste its latest vintages.
Rome: Enjoy a Celebration Dinner of delicious Italian cuisine and wine, accompanied by the rich tremolo of some of Italy's best loved songs.
jain, vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, meat
Assisi: Hotel Giotto Assisi is located in the centre of the medieval village of Assisi with beautiful views over the Umbrian countryside. All guest rooms are decorated in local Umbrian style.
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 an exclusive visit to the oldest pharmacy in Europe, Rome’s Antica Spezieria di Santa Maria della Scala, also known as the ‘Pharmacy of the Popes.’ Discover this hidden gem during a private audience with a friar of the Carmelite order, who reveals the historic curiosities of this 16th-century pharmacy.
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.
Siena: See the Fountain of Joy, striped cathedral and vast Piazza del Campo.
Florence: Enjoy a stroll through Renaissance Florence and admire the medieval buildings that gave birth to this new style of architecture.
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.
Assisi: See St. Mary of the Angels Church and join your Local Expert to walk through the cobbled streets and beautifully preserved medieval laneways of this quaint town.
Assisi: With a Local Expert, find out why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of Europe.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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- Parrocchia Santa Maria Regina Pacis
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Arrive in the eternal city of Rome, where ancient history meets vibrant modern life. Settle into your accommodation, such as the Hotel Quirinale (or similar), and prepare for an evening of exploration. Join your Travel Director for a visit to the bohemian district of Trastevere, where you'll enjoy a private tour of the historic Farmacia of Santa Maria della Scala. Learn about its fascinating past from a Carmelite friar and explore the adjoining 16th-century church. Conclude your evening with a delightful dinner featuring local wine at a charming restaurant in this lively neighborhood.
Day 2 – Day 2: Rome
- Rome
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- Capitoline Museums
- Palatine Hill
- Arch of Constantine
- Colosseum
- Circus Maximus
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Immerse yourself in the wonders of Rome with a full day dedicated to exploring its iconic sites. Begin with a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, home to an unparalleled collection of art treasures. Marvel at Michelangelo's masterpiece on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Cross the Tiber River to discover the grandeur of ancient Rome, including the Circus Maximus and the Arch of Constantine. Stroll around the exterior of the legendary Colosseum, absorbing its rich history and architectural brilliance. In the afternoon, consider visiting the Pantheon and the city's stunning piazzas and fountains.
Day 3 – Day 3: Rome to Florence via Siena
- Rome
- Siena
- Florence
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- Porta Camollia, Siena
- piazza del Campo
- Fontebranda
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Depart from Rome and journey north to the enchanting medieval city of Siena. Wander through its charming stone-paved streets to the expansive Piazza del Campo, renowned for the Palio horse race. Admire the Fountain of Joy and ascend to the hilltop Siena Cathedral, adorned with striking marble stripes. Continue your scenic drive through Tuscany's picturesque landscapes, dotted with cypress trees and vineyards, until you reach Florence. Here, indulge in a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with exquisite local wine, a culinary delight not to be missed.
Day 4 – Day 4: Florence
- Florence
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- Piazza del Duomo, San Gimignano
- Galleria dell'Accademia
- piazza della Signoria
- Pieve di Santa Maria
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Discover the artistic treasures of Florence with a choice of insightful experiences. Opt to visit the Accademia Museum to witness Michelangelo's iconic David. Afterwards, admire the stunning multi-colored marble facade of the Florence Cathedral, along with its bell tower and baptistery. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces, where you can marvel at statues like Neptune and Hercules. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely stroll to Piazza Santa Croce with your Travel Director, where you can savor a typical Italian treat at a local café, perfect for people-watching the stylish Florentines.
Day 5 – Day 5: Florence to Lake Maggiore via Pisa
- Florence
- Pisa
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- St Martin Cathedral
- Cathedral of Christ the King
- Porta San Pietro
- Lake Maggiore Zipline
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
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Depart Florence and head to Pisa to witness the architectural marvel of the Leaning Tower, along with the splendid cathedral and baptistery, adorned with intricate mosaics. Continue your journey past the renowned marble quarries of Carrara, used since ancient Roman times, and traverse the dramatic Apennine Mountains. Arrive at your lakeside resort on the serene shores of Lake Maggiore. As evening falls, take a leisurely passeggiata, or evening stroll, to work up an appetite before dinner.
Day 6 – Day 6: Lake Maggiore
Day 6: Lake Maggiore
Today is yours to unwind and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Lake Maggiore region. Whether you choose to explore the charming lakeside towns, take a boat ride to the Borromean Islands, or simply relax by the water, the day is yours to enjoy. In the evening, indulge in a Dine-Around experience, selecting from a curated list of local restaurants for a delightful dining experience.
Day 7 – Day 7: Lake Maggiore to Venice via Franciacorta
- Venice
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- Natural Reserve Sebino
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Travel along the southern edges of the European Alps to the renowned Franciacorta wine region, nestled near Lake Iseo. Here, you'll visit a family-owned estate to taste exquisite vintages crafted by a master vintner, steeped in winemaking tradition. Continue your journey to the enchanting city of Venice, where you'll be captivated by its unique charm and waterways.
Day 8 – Day 8: Venice
- Venice
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- Punta Sabbioni's Lighthouse
- Doge's Palace
- Piazza San Marco
- Bridge of Sighs
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Embark on a private boat ride to the iconic St. Mark's Square, where you'll marvel at the stunning basilica, Doge's Palace, and the Bridge of Sighs. Participate in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience by visiting a traditional glassblowing workshop, where skilled artisans craft exquisite glass pieces, preserving this ancient art form. Enjoy a romantic gondola ride through Venice's enchanting canals, serenaded by local musicians. Spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure, and as night falls, relish the magical ambiance of St. Mark's Square with its orchestras and al-fresco cafes.
Day 9 – Day 9: Venice to Assisi
- Venice
- Assisi
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- Church of Saint Mary of Consolation
- Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi
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Leave the enchanting canals of Venice behind as you travel through the scenic landscapes of Italy. Cross the Venetian Lagoon and traverse the Adige and Po rivers before reaching the hilltop town of Assisi, renowned as the birthplace of St. Francis. Visit the Church of St. Mary of the Angels and continue up Mount Subasio to explore the magnificent Basilica of St. Francis with a Local Expert, where you'll be captivated by its stunning frescoes and serene atmosphere.
Day 10 – Day 10: Assisi to Sorrento
- Assisi
- Sorrento
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- Scala Fenicia
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Journey along the picturesque clifftop road to the charming resort town of Sorrento, perched on the southern cliffs of the Bay of Naples. With breathtaking views of Mount Vesuvius, Sorrento offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Spend your evening at leisure, perhaps indulging in a regional dining experience to savor the local flavors and specialties.
Day 11 – Day 11: Sorrento to Capri
- Sorrento
- Capri
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- Casa Malaparte
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Embark on a morning cruise to the enchanting Isle of Capri, often referred to as the Isle of Dreams. With your Local Expert, explore the narrow alleyways of Capri town, browse exclusive boutiques, and take in the breathtaking views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Descend to the port by funicular railway and return to Sorrento for some relaxation. Consider joining an optional excursion to the picturesque town of Positano and the stunning Amalfi Coast.
Day 12 – Day 12: Sorrento to Rome via Pompeii
- Sorrento
- Portici
- Rome
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- Abbey of Montecassino
- Amphitheatre of Pompeii
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Travel north to the ancient city of Pompeii, remarkably preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. With a Local Expert, explore the cobbled streets, shops, villas, and temples, and marvel at the vibrant frescoes that have been hidden for centuries. Continue your journey beneath the imposing hilltop monastery of Monte Cassino and return to Rome. Conclude your Italian adventure with a quintessential experience in the heart of the Eternal City, featuring fine food, wine, music, and a private operetta performance during your farewell dinner.
Day 13 – Day 13: Departure from Rome
- Rome - Departure day
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Bid farewell to the captivating landscapes, historic landmarks, and enchanting cities of Italy. As you depart, carry with you the cherished memories of this unforgettable journey, with Italy's unique allure lingering in your heart long after you leave.
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