Itinerary

Journey to the Ligurian Coast and a short break

It's time to say goodbye (for now) to major city life and embrace the beautiful coastline of Italy. We depart Milan and travel through lush valleys and dramatic mountainous terrain with a stop in your guide's favourite little town before we continue the journey to the stunning Ligurian coast.

Journey to the Ligurian Coast

The Ligurian coast, or the Riviera di Levante – “the coast of the rising sun”. This region has been a popular destination for travellers for hundreds of years and it will come as no surprise once you lay eyes on its scenery. Terraces are carved into the hillsides, olive trees and grapevines extend out around you, and the air becomes infused with the salty tang of the sea.

La Spezia and free time to explore Cinque Terre

We arrive in La Spezia, a port city known as the gateway to Cinque Terre that offers a blend of maritime charm and vibrant culture. This will also be your first overnight stay but before we get too settled, we check in at our accommodation and head to the train station together. Why? Because Cinque Terre awaits. These five coastal villages have their own personality. Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza and Monterosso. With your train ticket, it's up to you to decide which ones you want to visit. Nested against the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera, everywhere you look you'll spot colourful houses, winding streets, stunning panoramas, and so much more.

Free evening to explore Cinque Terre or La Spezia

Your evening can be whatever you'd like it to be. Perhaps you'll linger in Cinque Terre a bit longer and have a bite to eat as the sun sets over a glorious sea. Or maybe you'll opt to return to La Spezia for your evening indulgences before settling in for the night.

Journey to Pietrasanta

We say farewell to La Spezia this morning and journey back in time to when narrow medieval streets, charming piazzas, and grand cathedrals were the norm. On the coast of northern Tuscany, you'll find the sweet town of Pietrasanta, often referred to as the “City of Artists” thanks to its tradition as a hot spot of sculptors and artists. Perhaps that has something to do with the renowned Carrara marble quarries nearby, which have supplied marble for some of the world's most iconic sculptures and buildings.

Exploring Pietrasanta and journey to Pisa

You've got free time to stroll through picturesque streets of this historic town and to admire stunning Renaissance architecture, lively piazzas, and the beautiful Cathedral of San Martino. Next up is a place that needs little to no introduction. Many have journeyed to Pisa over the years to see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Now it's your turn.

Free time in Pisa and Lucca

Many have journeyed to Pisa to see the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. Now it's your turn. You have time to explore the other beauties of this wonderful city, including exploring the Piazza dei Miracoli, take a jaunt along the Arno River, visit the Camposanto Monumentale, discover the many churches of Pisa, and simply enjoy the local cuisine. Our final stop of the day is the charming walled city of Lucca. Here you'll find a delightful blend of historical, cultural, and scenic attractions. Maybe you'll walk along the city walls. Perhaps you'll visit the Piazza dell'Anfiteatro. Or find yourself in one of Lucca's beautiful churches – perhaps the Cathedral of St Martin.

Journey to Florence and free evening

We then head into the bustling city of Florence, your overnight stay for the next two nights. Fashion, culture, history, architecture, cuisine... Florence has a lot going for it. Surrounded by gentle rolling hills, farms and orchards, villas and vineyards, Firenze (as it's known to the locals) is an indulgence. How will you spend your first night here? Wandering the streets and taking in the incredible duomos, bridges and buildings? Or sitting in a cobbled courtyard somewhere with a plate of Ragu di Cinghiale and a glass of Chianti?

Guided Tour of Florence

Good morning, Florence. Or in the local language, Buongiorno Firenze. It might be worth learning a few phrases to help navigate the city today, because today is a full day in Florence. We start with an included guided tour around Florence's cobbled streets, where your guide will point out some of the city's most impressive features while telling you a bit about its history.

Free Time in Florence

When the guided tour is over, the rest of the day is yours. Florence is a masterpiece, and, as the capital of Italy's Tuscany region, it's the home to a plethora of Renaissance art and architecture. Brimming with life and excitement. There's far too much to choose from. So, what's on your list? Maybe you'll stroll across Ponte Vecchio and get an iconic shot of this famous medieval stone arch bridge crossing the Arno River. Perhaps you'll head inside the the Uffizi Gallery, an iconic art gallery housing Botticelli's The Birth of Venus and Caravaggio's Medusa. Meander around the Piazza della Signoria with your camera… finding local markets for an afternoon treat.

Free Time in Florence

Hungry yet? Exploring a new place is the best way to build up an appetite. But you're in Florence now, a city known for more than its striking architecture. We're talking about cibo – food. Perhaps you'll partake in a Bistecca alla Fiorentina, a T-bone steak seasoned with salt, pepper and olive oil. This traditional Florentine dish pairs well with a glass of Chianti, just saying. If you've been snacking throughout the day (as is custom when gelato and Cannoli tempt you at every corner), perhaps you'll go for something lighter like Ribollita, a classic Tuscan vegetable soup. Or maybe a simple (yet incredible) slice of pizza while you wander is more up your alley.

Free evening in Florence

And as the sun sets on another gorgeous day in Italy, it's time to settle down for another romantic and historic city. You'll go to sleep tonight knowing you're surrounded by fine Italian wine, quiet medieval streets, and the memory and influence of famous artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

Journey through Tuscany

As you leave behind the art-filled streets of Florence, the rolling countryside opens up before you, inviting you to explore ancient villages perched high on hilltops, each with its own unique charm and story.

Castellina in Chianti

The stop briefly in Castellina in Chianti, a hill-town that feels like stepping into a postcard of Tuscany. Here, rolling vineyards, medieval streets, and centuries-old architecture create a picture-perfect setting. You've got time to grab a coffee and a little exploration before we continue with our adventure.

San Gimignano free time and lunch, Siena

As we travel over the green hills of the famous Chianti wine region, you notice the 14 towers of San Gimignano soaring like a medieval Manhattan. Listen to the story of the noble families who got caught up in a race to build the highest tower house. Then enjoy a walk around the well-preserved fortified old centre and sample local delicacies for lunch. We continue to Siena, a gorgeous red-brick city that celebrates Gothic architecture like no one else. The place's essence centres around the unique shell-shaped Piazza del Campo. It's here where the bi-annual horse race ‘Palio di Siena' is hosted. And it's also where James Bond madly chases his enemy in ‘Quantum of Solace'.

Free evening in Montepulciano

Next, we travel along the country roads, past cypress trees and olive groves to arrive in Montepulciano. This hilltop town in rural Tuscany is your home for two night . Time slows down here and every corner invites you to discover something beautiful. You've got a free evening here, so make sure to wander through its medieval streets, where history whispers through Renaissance architecture, and the scent of rich, earthy wine fills the air.

Free time in Montepulciano

You've got a free morning in this charming town so stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Italian espresso paired with a pastry. And then, maybe you will feel like taking a peaceful walk up to the Piazza Grande, where you can admire the impressive Palazzo Comunale and the panoramic vistas over the Val d'Orcia? Whatever you decide to do, savour this perfect moment.

Pienza

After your peaceful morning, we start to uncover the secrets of the iconic Val d'Orcia. Our first stop of today is a real beauty. An architectural beauty, that is. Pienza is celebrated for its exquisite Renaissance architecture and its UNESCO World Heritage city centre.

Lunch at Pienza, wine tasting, and Bagno Vignoni

Your time is yours to eat lunch and to uncover the secrets of Pienza. What will you see first? Perhaps the duomo with its striking interior and impressive windows? Or the Diocesan Museum, brimming with paintings from the 12th to17th centuries. Wherever you end up, you'll fall for the city just like we did. No trip to Tuscany is complete without a visit to a local winery, so we stop in at one for a tour followed by a tasting. We finish the day with a visit to Bagno Vignoni, a village renowned for centuries for its curative waters. Today, you can admire this ancient spa and follow the flow of the spring waters across the archaeological park.

Bigno Vignoni to Montepulciano, free evening

After a day of exploring the Tuscan countryside, we return to Montepulciano for another leisurely evening. Stuck for ideas what to do? There's no better way to embrace the magic of this place than with a glass of the local Vino Nobile di Montepulciano in hand and a sunset walk.

Journey through the Maremma region

You leave Tuscany in the morning and travel south to the Maremma region. This enchanting stretch of Tuscany and Lazio whispers tales of the Etruscans, a sophisticated civilization that thrived long before Rome's dominance. Renowned for their artistry, engineering, and harmonious relationship with nature, the Etruscans left behind a legacy etched in hilltop towns, necropolises, and mysterious artifacts. Today, we'll explore some of the most remarkable sites tied to these fascinating people, delving into their history and trying to uncover their secrets.

Etruscan Necroplis at Sovana and Via Cava

We stop and the Etruscan Necropolis in Sovana where you can get up close to a hauntingly beautiful collection of tombs carved into the region's soft tuff rock. Feel full of awe as you admire these ancient tombs with intricate carvings that reflect the Etruscans' beliefs in the afterlife and their deep respect for nature. Alternatively, you can walk along the enigmatic Via Cava, an impressive road network carved out of tuff during the Bronze Age.

Sovana town and lunch, Capodimonte

After exploring these remarkable remnants of Etruscan civilisation, we visit Sovana, where you can grab something to eat and soak in the atmosphere of this picturesque medieval town with cobbled streets before continuing your adventure. Then, we continue the journey towards Capodimonte, a small town situated on the bank of Bolsena Lake, the largest volcanic lake in Italy. You've got free time to stroll along the charming waterfront, explore the medieval fortress of Rocca Farnese, or go on a boat tour. After your relaxing break by the lake, we start our journey through the region of Lazio towards Rome.

Journey to Rome and the end of the first leg of the tour

And as we head back to the Eternal City of Rome, now is the time to reflect on all you've sampled and experienced over the last few days. From the remnants of enigmatic civilisations to the icons of architecture, charming villages and local wine, this tour is bursting with stories and flavours. *** This is the end of the first leg of your tour so say goodbye to your group and get ready for a free day in Rome exploring on your own. You will join the second leg of the tour on day 8**

A day of exploring Rome on your own

Haunting ruins, awe-inspiring art, and vibrant street life. This is Rome, the Eternal City. The legend goes that Rome was founded by Romulus, son of the war god Mars, and became the heart of Roman civilization. From the assassination of Julius Caesar to the founding of Vatican City, Rome is a hub of culture, history, and passion. *Please note: This is a free day for you to explore the city at your own pace and there will not be a guide on hand. The second part of the tour begins tomorrow (day 8) - please see tomorrow for more details.

A day of exploring Rome on your own

Rome is home to art treasures, historic monuments, parks and gardens, archaeological remains, and striking sculptures, and its historic center of Rome is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. So, what to do with your free day? Why not make the most of your time here and jump on the hop-on hop-off bus? If you'd rather explore by foot, you might grab a map and follow the trail of the icons of Rome's heyday. There's the impossible Colosseum; the architecture of the Pantheon; and the Roman Forum, once the centre of religious, political, and social activities in Rome.

A day of exploring Rome on your own

Once you've had a glimpse into the past, focus on the current culinary scene and grab an alfresco table on one of many elegant piazzas. Sit down, relax, and get your taste buds ready for the local delicacies. Then, you can soak up the atmosphere of this fascinating city. Stroll along the Tiber River and snap photos of the beautiful Castle Saint Angelo, count the legendary Spanish Steps, and unwind with a tasty gelato by the dazzling Trevi Fountain. Toss a coin into the water to make sure you'll return here and start getting excited for the next part of your tour.

An evening of exploring Rome on your own

And just because the sun is setting doesn't mean the city goes to sleep. Dinner is an absolute must, of course, but there might be other options that interest you. An after-hour visit to the Catacombs, anyone? Or sipping on a cocktail at one of Rome's trendy bars might be more up your alley. Or perhaps you want to grab a fresh lemon gelato and wander the piazzas watching the locals and travellers alike enjoy the evening air.

Joining second part of the tour and journey to Orvieto

There's something to be said about the energy and passion of Rome, but today we leave it behind for the heart and beauty of greater Italy. You meet the new driver-guide and other intrepid travellers in the hotel lobby at 8:15am to begin the second part of the tour. You head north, through Italy's Lazio and Umbria regions, an urban metropolis blending into rural charm. Don't be lulled into dozing, otherwise you might miss the verdant countryside, from olive groves to vineyards.

Free time in Orvieto

As we approach our first stop of the day, you might just start to believe in magic. Perched dramatically atop a volcanic tuff cliff is the city of Orvieto. It's a city known for its unfathomably beautiful duomo, the limestone rock its perched on, and the cave system that makes up its roots. It's the perfect place to explore and feel like a true adventurer. As you wander its shop-and-restaurant-filled streets, its medieval architecture stems out from the masterful Gothic cathedral. And, as a region known for its wine, now might be the perfect time to sit and take in the sights with a refreshing local grape.

Parco Naturale Le Balze, lunch in Piantravigne, and journey to Bologna

Your journey leads you through the Parco Naturale Le Balze, a landscape studded with balze rock peaks, sulphite streams, and gorgeous vistas that inspired Leonardo da Vinci. Your lunch stop is in the tiny hamlet of Piantravigne, the perfect spot to sample some truly authentic Italian cuisine. From here, you travel to Bologna, the city famous for the oldest university in Europe and culinary delights.

Free evening in Bologna

You've got a free evening in this atmospheric city so you can explore to your heart's content. You can begin with a leisurely walk through the Piazza Maggiore, where the historic buildings glow in the soft light, or explore the medieval streets lined with charming cafés and boutique shops. For dinner, indulge in Bologna's famous tagliatelle al ragù or other local specialties at a cosy trattoria.

Optional half-day trip to Ravenna

Today, you can join a half-day trip to Ravenna in the morning or spend the whole day in Bologna. Ravenna is a maze of mosaic masterpieces, a unique blend of early Christian and Byzantine architecture with eight sites on the UNESCO list. This unforgettable North Italian destination is also the town where Dante Alighieri is buried.

Free time in Ravenna

Explore this captivating treasure trove of art and history, where the intricate mosaic masterpieces will leave you in awe. After immersing yourself in the beauty of Ravenna's artistic heritage, unwind by strolling through the city's charming streets, lined with lively squares, quaint cafés, and historic buildings. It's the perfect setting to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this timeless city.

Free afternoon in Bologna

We leave Ravenna in the early afternoon and return from your half-day trip to have the rest of the day to explore Bologna your way. During the Renaissance, this fascinating city was blooming with art and was a centre for intellectual innovation. Its famous university is the oldest in the western world and saw great minds like Petrarch, Dante Alighieri, and Copernicus. There's plenty to do here. You can stroll through the beautiful, kilometres-long UNESCO porticos, unravel the mysteries of the university, or climb the iconic Asinelli Tower, for stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Emilia-Romagna region.

Free evening in Bologna

It's your last evening in stunning Bologna, so make sure to savour every moment. As the evening unfolds, relax with a gelato in hand, soaking in the lively atmosphere and reflecting on the unforgettable experiences of your time in this charming city.

Journey to Porto Tolle

It's time to slap on some sunscreen, charge up your camera, and head deep into nature. Your adventure begins in Porto Tolle, a tranquil town located at the heart of the Po Delta, one of the most biodiverse regions in Italy.

Free time at Porto Tolle, optional boat trip

Here, you can join an optional boat trip that takes you through the serene wetlands of the Po River. As you glide along the winding waterways, you'll be surrounded by lush vegetation, salt marshes, and hidden channels. The Po Delta is home to a rich variety of wildlife, and it's the perfect place to spot rare migratory birds, including flamingos and herons. Alternatively, you can choose to follow one of the walking trails to immerse yourself in its untouched beauty.

Lunch at Porto Tolle and Este

After your lunch and free time in Porto Tolle, we continue our journey to Este, a charming town with a rich history that dates back over 3,000 years. During your free time, you can take a leisurely walk along the well-preserved city walls, offering lovely views of the surrounding countryside and the town's quaint streets. Another highlight is the Medieval Castle, set within a peaceful moat, where you can explore the ancient fortress and imagine life during the Middle Ages.

Free evening in Venice

You then venture to the floating city of Venice, one of the most striking destinations in Italy and your home for the next two nights. There's something unique about Venice at night. The island clears, the hubbub settles, and Venice's ghost stories whisper along the canal's streets.

Guided Tour of Venice

With its wealth, trade, and power; Venice has always been bold. Trust us, you'll need at least a full day in Venice. We wish we could give you more, and, as there will be so much for you to choose from, we recommend making a list before you go. You enjoy an included two-hour guided walking tour of the city and then it's up to you what you explore next. From people-watching in Piazza San Marco to frequenting the famous galleries, you have the whole day and night in Venice.

Free time in Venice

177 canals, 350 gondoliers, and the most idiosyncratic cityscapes in the world: Venice, ‘the Floating City', is your home for the day. It's been built on over 118 islands and hosts one of the most famous festivals in the world. Why not try a gondola ride yourself, gliding along the serene canals as you take in the stunning views of the Grand Canal and picturesque bridges?

Free time in Venice

The labyrinth of Venice is part of its charm. Never knowing where you might end up or how many bridges are between you and your destination, but what's certain is that every turn, every nook and cranny, every cracked facade holds surprises and stories and memories you will remember for a long time. The magic of Venice lies in never knowing what's around the corner. Maybe you'll stumble into a restaurant for one of the best Italian meals you've had. Perhaps you'll step back in the refurbished 17th century pharmacy that now sells luxury perfumes. Maybe you'll stand quietly in the crypt of a humble Venetian church, hugged by the cool air as you ponder its history.

Free evening in Venice

As the day comes to an end, the day travellers depart the city, clearing out its streets and restaurants, leaving you to savour the eerie beauty of The Floating City.

Villa Pisani

Say goodbye to Venice because it's the traditional flavours of Italy for you to explore today. First, you go to Villa Pisani. This included attraction boasts awesome art exhibitions and is the epitome of late baroque architecture. Napoleon once owned this huge holiday home and presented it to his stepson as a gift.

Journey to Valdobbiadene

You say farewell to the excesses of the aristocracy and venture to Valdobbiadene for a chance to indulge in something a little sweeter.

Free time in Valdobbiadene or a prosecco tasting, Bassano del Grappa

Visiting Valdobbiadene is like stepping into a living postcard, where the rolling hills and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. This land is home to the best prosecco and belongs to a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, recognized for its centuries-old winemaking tradition. You have the option of an exclusive tasting here. Alternatively, you can explore the town and wander through charming streets and quaint squares. The indulgence continues as you travel to Bassano del Grappa, where you have the chance to sample sweet and intoxicating Grappa. If you've had enough tipple for the day, you can spend time admiring the castle and the town's famous old bridge instead.

Free evening in Padua

You then venture to Padua, allegedly the oldest city in Italy and your home for tonight. This fascinating place sits at the crossroads of science and religion. This is where venerated St Anthony is buried, and where the ground-breaking scientific discoveries were made at the height of the Renaissance.

Journey to Verona

Say ‘ciao!' to the romance of Italy, because we head to the setting of Romeo and Juliet, Verona.

Free time in Verona

You have free time here to reminisce about past lovers at the famous Juliet's Balcony, where the timeless tale of Romeo and Juliet comes alive, admire the grandeur of the Arena di Verona, one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters still in use today, and leisurely wander through the ancient piazzas, each offering its own unique charm and history.

Lunch and free time in Peschiera del Garda, Lake Garda

We then travel to Lake Garda, where the crystal-clear waters shimmer against the backdrop of the majestic Dolomites, creating a picture-perfect landscape that has captivated artists, poets, and travelers since Roman times. We stop at the charming town of Peschiera del Garda, with its cobblestone streets, scenic canals, and historical fortifications. Nestled at the southern tip of the lake, this picturesque town invites you to explore its ancient walls, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, or an exciting boat ride. You'll also have time to try some local specialties its quaint cafes, all while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and lake.

Return to Milan

After many memorable days, you return to Milan with one thought: art, food, scenery: Italians do everything a little better. And nowhere is this more apparent than in the Renaissance cities of Northern Italy.