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. And don't forget that tomorrow is the next leg of your tour.

Joining second part of the tour and journey to Montecassino Abbey

Today, 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. Once you're on comfortably sitting in the new bus, you leave the hustle and bustle of Rome and head south towards peaceful Cassino.

Exploring Montecassino Abbey

Sitting atop of the mountain, the Montecassino Abbey is a sight to behold. A working monastery and a pilgrimage site, this place was a centre of art, culture, and learning. It was also the scene for a decisive battle near the end of World War II. You have your entrance ticket included and get time to stroll through the cloisters of the monastery and contemplate the turbulent history of war.

Lunch at Cassino, San Pietro Infine, Benevento

After exploring the historic Montecassino Abbey, it's time to get something quick to eat at the nearby Cassino and continue to San Pietro Infine. This is quite an emotional site, as these beautiful ruins of a village are a solemn memorial to the sacrifices of World War II and a testament to the enduring spirit of its people. Then we travel past hilltop villages and mountains to Benevento. Built on a hill with a stunning background of mountains, this timeworn city has a special aura. It's filled with memories of the ancient Samnites, Romans, and Longobards. Legends also say witches gather from all over the world by an ancient walnut tree by the local river.

Free evening in Ariano Irpino

After a day of soaking up the history, legends, and stunning views; you travel south-east to Ariano Irpino your home for the night. This historic hilltop town offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and is full of charm. You've got a free evening here so you can decide if you want to go for a sunset walk or if you just want to try local dishes at a traditional trattoria paired with a glass of local wine.

Journey to Trani

You wake up in the stunning region of Campania and travel through the Apennine foothills, past picturesque villages and vineyards towards the sun-soaked coast of Apulia and the town of Trani.

Free time in Trani

Known as the ‘Pearl of Apulia', this historic stone-built port and fishing village exudes sophistication. Walk along the promenade in the marina or stroll through the historic centre and admire the medieval churches, cathedral, and historic Jewish quarter.

Lunch at Polignano a Mare, Alberobello, and journey to Lecce

Next, we travel to Polignano a Mare, a small, idyllic seaside town perched on the edge of cliffs. Enjoy your lunch surrounded by sun-bleached stone buildings and enjoy the Adriatic breeze. Then, your adventure takes you to Alberobello. With over 1,500 small and rounded white houses, this town looks like it was inhabited by gnomes. These beehive-shaped buildings are called trulli and are so unique to Apulia that they were awarded UNESCO World Heritage status. Take your time to meander around the narrow streets and marvel at the impossibly photogenic nooks. Feeling that La Vita è Bella, you leave Alberobello and ramble south towards the heel of Italy to Lecce.

Free evening in Lecce

Visiting Lecce is like stepping into a living masterpiece, where every corner reveals the splendour of its baroque heritage. This is your home for two nights, so you'll be able to explore this stunning city at different times of the day, watching as the light brings out the intricate details of its historic buildings.

Free time in Lecce

Buongiorno! Wake up and start the day with some pasticciotto, the gorgeous breakfast pastry. Enjoy your free time in the morning by strolling through Lecce's old town and admiring its unique architecture. The city's Baroque style is so unique it got the name of its own, ‘Lecce Baroque'.

Free time in Lecce

While wandering the charming streets of the city, make sure to visit the main square, Piazza Sant'Oronzo with the remnants of a Roman Amphitheater or Basilica di Santa Croce. Take time to admire its façade adorned with an array of intricate sculptures, including biblical scenes, angels, and floral motifs, the exuberance so characteristic to Lecce Baroque architecture.

Journey and lunch in Otranto, Gallipoli, and Salento Peninsula

Next, contrast the splendour of Lecce with the laid-back seaside towns of the Salento Peninsula. You leave at noon and travel through the ochre-coloured fields and olive groves to Otranto. Enjoy your lunch and free time here wandering through a maze of narrow streets, whitewashed houses, and quaint squares of the historic center. Or choose to stroll around the fortifications or harbourside promenade and admire the views of the Adriatic Sea. We continue our adventure to the “beautiful city” – that's what Gallipoli means. And you will fall in love with this gorgeous beachside town. Take a stroll around the old town, with crystal blue water surrounding you on all sides.

Journey to Lecce, free evening

Cast your eyes for the last time at the magnificent vistas of the coast before journeying inland to Lecce for another free evening. Whether you're enjoying an al fresco dinner in a quaint piazza, catching a live performance, or simply wandering through the charming streets, you're guaranteed another magical evening in this stunning city.

Journey to the Basilicata region

Today, we say goodbye to Lecce and the sun-soaked coast of Apulia, and we head somewhere strikingly different to the Basilicata region.

Journey through the Basilicata region to Matera

This captivating part of Italy nestled between the rugged mountains and the Ionian and Tyrrhenian Seas, is a true hidden gem. And the first highlight for today is the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Site of Matera.

Lunch at Matera, Castelmezzano

Matera seamlessly blends into its rocky cliffside surroundings. It's a higgledy-piggledy jumble of sassi, the ancient cave dwellings, houses and churches. Explore ancient churches adorned with stone wall paintings, visit 18th-century dwellings, and discover filming locations from The Passion of the Christ and No Time to Die (2021). Next, you journey into the heart of the Lucanian Dolomites and the village of Castelmezzano. One of the highest villages in the region, it's located on a narrow ledge that drops away into a dramatic gorge. Find out about its rich history as you explore the village or go for a hike to see the ruins of the castle which gave the village its name.

Free evening in Salerno

After a busy day, you travel through the hills and mountains of Basilicata towards the west coast of Italy, where you spend two nights in Salerno. Situated quite snuggly along the picturesque Amalfi coastline, Salerno has a spectacular view of the Tyrrhenian Sea. A palm-lined promenade awaits you, dozens of delicious restaurants and bars at your fingertips for your evening tonight. We recommend heading out for sunset if you can manage it and get yourself a view overlooking the sea.

Journey around Amalfii Coast

This tour is all about breathtaking views... and today you get to see them from the water. In the morning, we leave the hotel and start exploring one of Italy's most iconic regions: the Amalfi Coast. This 50km stretch of coastline is known for its natural beauty, history and architecture. Dramatic cliffs, beaches and bays, terraces and personal touches of human artistry, all around you stretches sparkling ocean waters, terraced vineyards and stretches of orchards.

Sorrento

Our first destination is Sorrento. With panoramic views of the Bay of Naples, the iconic silhouette of Mount Vesuvius hiding among the haze ahead, Sorrento's cliffside setting is the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Then it's time to head into Sorrento's historic Old Town, a true maze of narrow streets packed with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Grab a gelato or perhaps sample a famous Limoncello, a traditional lemon liqueur the region is known for.

Positano, Amalfi

That beauty just keeps on coming today as we head to Positano. Today is your chance to explore it. Depending on the season, you might head to the cliffside village's Spiaggia Grande for a swim or simply enjoy some delicious Italian cuisine. And there are enough boutique shops, quaint cafes, and local artisans selling their wares that you'll have plenty of things to do. Then we board a boat that takes us to the seaside town of Amalfi. It began as a maritime power but today, this sweet and idyllic spot is one of the most charming destinations along the Amalfi Coast. Perhaps it's the delectable gelato, or the smiles of the local people. Either way, you're going to love it.

Journey to Salerno, free evening

One more ferry ride brings us back to Salerno for the evening, where you can enjoy a beautiful Italian evening with one of the region's popular dishes. Buffalo mozzarella, anyone?

Journey to Mount Vesuvius

In the morning, you travel north to face Mount Vesuvius. In ancient times, this mountain was considered to be divine and had connections to Jupiter – the god of sky and lightning. Legends say that the giants used to inhabit the volcano, which explained the loud noises and rumbling. Scary as this sounds, the titan is now dormant.

Hiking up Mount Vesuvius

Put on your sturdy boots and get ready for an unforgettable experience because you can hike up to the crater. As you ascend the winding paths of this legendary volcano, you'll be greeted by sweeping panoramas of the Bay of Naples and the surrounding countryside. The climb, suitable for most fitness levels, brings you face-to-face with the crater of one of the world's most famous active volcanoes. Along the way, volcanic rock formations and the sheer scale of the mountain's power leave a lasting impression.

Free time to explore Pompeii

Our next stop is at the archaeological marvel of Pompeii. In 79 CE, Vesuvius' anger became uncontainable, and she spewed her rage down on this Roman city. It was home to around 11,000 people... many of whom were preserved in the streets and homes of their city. It's a rather morbid place, humbling to say the least. But this haunting destination is well worth a visit as the incredible world left behind are echoes of a once-great city. (Tip: ask staff for a map before entering, which we recommend as it's easy to get turned around!). After coming face to face with history, we start our journey to Rome with some stops along the way.

Return to Rome

As we leave the shadow of Mount Vesuvius behind, the landscape unfolds into rolling hills, dotted with vineyards, olive groves, and picturesque villages. Enjoy your leisurely ramble north through Campania and Lazio before you arrive in the Eternal City early in the evening.