Itinerary

Journey to Montecassino Abbey

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 and the end of the first leg of the tour

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. *** 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 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 so many memorable days, you finish your tour in 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.