Premium Italy in Depth

Welcome to the enchanting region of Puglia, where your Italian adventure begins in the vibrant coastal city of Bari. Upon arrival, you'll be whisked away to your hotel (or similar) to settle in. As the sun sets, gather for a welcome meeting to meet your fellow travelers and local guide. If time allows, explore the winding streets of Bari's Old Town or visit the revered Basilica di San Nicola. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner, introducing you to the rich flavors of Puglia's cuisine.

Embark on a journey through Puglia's rich agricultural heritage with a visit to a historic olive oil farm. Learn about the evolution of olive oil production and indulge in a tasting session. Continue to the whitewashed city of Ostuni, where Gothic and Byzantine architecture line the streets. Later, explore the serene town of Nardo with a guided tour of its grand palazzos. Spend the night in a luxurious Feature Stay hotel, a converted 13th-century palace, and enjoy a sumptuous dinner.

Begin your day with a stroll through the enchanting gardens of your Feature Stay hotel. Then, venture to Lecce, often dubbed the 'Florence of the South' for its baroque splendor. A local guide will reveal the city's hidden gems and share its fascinating history. Enjoy free time to explore Lecce's vibrant streets at your leisure before returning to Nardo. In the evening, perhaps join a pasta-making class or unwind at the nearby beach.

Savor a leisurely morning at your Feature Stay hotel before setting off for the ancient city of Matera. En route, stop at a local winery for a delightful wine tasting and lunch. Upon arrival in Matera, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, take a leisurely evening stroll to uncover its rich history, charming churches, and traditional eateries. Prepare for an in-depth exploration of Matera's sassi houses the following day.

Delve into the heart of Matera's Old Town, where the ancient sassi houses tell tales of bygone eras. With a knowledgeable guide, navigate the labyrinthine alleyways and staircases carved into the limestone cliffs. Discover the fascinating history of these stone dwellings, once considered a national disgrace, now undergoing restoration. Visit an underground neighborhood to witness the remnants of a bygone civilization.

Embark on a journey to the storied town of Pompeii, where the ruins of a once-thriving Roman city lie frozen in time. With a local guide, explore the well-preserved villas, temples, and streets, gaining insight into life before the catastrophic eruption of Mt Vesuvius. Later, travel to the bustling city of Naples for a final group dinner, reminiscing about the unforgettable experiences of your journey.

Buongiorno! Welcome to the eternal city of Rome. Upon arrival, enjoy a complimentary transfer to your hotel (or similar) and settle in. If you arrive early, take the opportunity to explore Rome's historic streets, perhaps with a refreshing espresso in hand. Your adventure officially begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, followed by a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, offering a taste of Rome's culinary delights.

Embark on a guided exploration of Rome's iconic landmarks, including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona. Discover the vibrant Campo de Fiori market, where fresh produce has been sold since 1869. Enjoy a refreshing granita before visiting a local aristocrat's home for an intimate lunch. The afternoon is yours to explore Rome at your own pace, perhaps visiting the legendary Colosseum.

Travel to the enchanting city of Siena, where your guide will introduce you to its captivating sights, including the renowned Piazza del Campo and Siena Cathedral. Continue to the medieval town of Monteriggioni, with its impressive fortified walls. After exploring, arrive at your Feature Stay accommodation near San Gimignano, where you'll enjoy a gourmet dinner crafted from local ingredients, celebrating the flavors of Tuscany.

Explore the medieval charm of San Gimignano, known as the 'Town of Fine Towers,' with its Gothic and Romanesque architecture. Visit a local agriturismo to sample the region's celebrated Vernaccia wine and enjoy a lunch featuring regional specialties. Return to your Feature Stay accommodation for another delectable dinner, savoring the essence of Tuscany.

Begin your day with a visit to Pisa, where you'll capture the iconic Leaning Tower in all its glory. Continue to the historic city of Lucca, known for its beautifully preserved Renaissance walls. Take a leisurely walk along these ancient fortifications before traveling to Florence. The evening is yours to explore the cobbled streets, savor gelato, and immerse yourself in the Tuscan ambiance.

Embark on a guided tour of Florence, including a visit to the renowned Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's iconic statue of David. The afternoon is yours to explore Florence at your leisure. Consider visiting the Uffizi Gallery or enjoying panoramic views from Piazzale Michelangelo. Delight in Tuscany's culinary offerings, known for their simplicity and quality.

Board a high-speed train to the enchanting city of Venice. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you on an orientation walk through the city's maze of canals, revealing its unique history. Visit the Venice Academy of Music for a breathtaking view of the city. The afternoon is yours to explore Venice's iconic sights, from the Grand Canal to the Rialto Bridge. Conclude your day with a Venetian dinner, savoring the flavors of this captivating city.