Essentials of Italy

Today make your own way to the airport for your flight to Rome, Italy. The adventure begins!

Arrival in Rome, Italy, Private Car Transfer

Upon arrival, you will be met by a your driver and taken to your hotel. Remainder of day at leisure.

Ancient Rome & Colosseum Small Group Walking Tour, 3hrs

In the morning, join the fascinating Small Group Walking Tour of Ancient Rome . As you tour the ruins of the Ancient Forum, the main square of the Roman Empire and the world in ancient times, you'll learn the defining moments in the history of Rome peppered anecdotes that will shed light on what life was like in Rome over 2,000 years.

Visit the Palatine Hill, Constantine's Arch and enjoy skip the line tickets at the Colosseum where you'll learn about the games once played here, the famous gladiators and the inner workings of the arena that enabled the Romans to produce epic showmanship in ancient times. Your Day Tour of Rome will continue after a short break at the Vatican, and you can accompany your guide from the Colosseum to the Vatican as the same guide will be leading both tours.

This morning is at leisure, enjoy a relaxed breakfast; then make your own way to Vatican City and meet your guide.  Note:  arrive early and enjoy shopping along the main avenue to the Vatican.

Vatican Small Group Tour , 4hrs

In the afternoon, you’ll join the Small Group Tour of the Vatican , including tickets and reservations so you avoid standing in line to see the Sistine Chapel & St. Peters Basilica as well as other must-see sights of the Vatican. For travelers visiting Italy, a Tour of the Vatican is an absolute must, and so we have designed this 4-hour to give as much time as possible to focus on the must-see sights of the Vatican. In the confined spaces of the Rooms by Rafael , learn how to interpret the work of Rafael, and we'll reveal how Rafael expressed his admiration for his great rival Michelangelo. We'll spend as much time as possible viewing and discussing the Sistine Chapel, as you listen to the story of its transformation into one of the most sublime artistic creations of all time, and appreciate the personal relationship between two titanic figures of the Renaissance: Michelangelo & Pope Julius II. Your tour of the Vatican & Sistine Chapel continues in the vast open spaces of St. Peters Basilica where you'll discover Bernini's breathtaking Papal Canopy, and Michelangelo's stunning Pietà, as well as being entertained by anecdotes about the extravagant lifestyles of the Popes during the Renaissance, and the tale of a simple fisherman who became the first Pope of Christianity.

Day 5: Rome

Free day to enjoy the area on your own.

This morning meet your driver for a private car transfer to Rome’s Termini Railway station to travel in reserved First-Class seats on a Hi-speed Euro-star train to Naples departing from Rome at 9.45 am, and arriving in Naples at 10.55 am (or nearest time available).

At Naples Railway Station meet your driver and take a Private Car Transfer to Pompeii  where you meet your guide for a 2-hour walking tour of Pompeii that will include: visits to the interiors of the homes of Pompeii's wealthier citizens, Ancient street where locals dined and where you'll learn about traditional Roman cuisine, the amphitheater where we'll talk of the Gladiators and the events staged in the arena. As well as enjoying numerous anecdotes about life in Pompeii that will include some of the Graffiti dating back to Roman times that are still visible throughout the ruins.

Then you will continue to your hotel in Sorrento. Rest of the day at your leisure.

Today is at leisure to explore on your own 

Optional Tours: 

Small Group Amalfi Coast Tour**

We start the Amalfi coastal road which is one of the most stunning coastal drives in Europe. The scenery is superb, looking out over the Mediterranean and along the  coastline as the road twists and turns.  We start from the town of Positano (approx. 20 minutes from Sorrento). The town is built on different levels from the main road all the way down to sea level. This spectacular journey continues with fabulous views all the way to Amalfi (approximately 1 hour). Arrival in Amalfi around 10am depending on the traffic. After a visit of Amalfi to include the magnificent 9th century Cathedral which proudly dominates the main square of Amalfi, wander through the narrow streets of the town and browse the many shops or enjoy a coffee in one of the cafes around Amalfi. Free for lunch. The excursion carries on to Ravello which is situated on the hillside above Amalfi. This is where Wagner was inspired to write part of one of his operas and it is from here that you can enjoy the best views of the Amalfi coastline looking over to Minori, Maiori and beyond. This quaint little town has a main square where the centerpiece is the bright picturesque eleventh century cathedral.  

OR

Small Group Capri Island Tour**

Your excursion to the island of Capri includes a licensed expert guide who will accompany you the whole day. Start with a journey by hydrofoil to the enchanting Capri island. The journey by boat lasts about 40 minutes and from the boat you'll enjoy beautiful views of the Bay of Naples.

From the port of Capri, travel by private minivan to arrive at the town of Anacapri, which is a delight to explore. We'll visit the church of San Michele to admire the majolica tile floor, and you'll have time to ride the chairlift up to Monte Solaro for incredible views of the Amalfi coast and the island. Visit the famous Faraglioni, two large free standing cliffs straight up out of the water, for a superb view over this side of the island.

After returning to the town of Capri for lunch (own expense), spend the afternoon of our private day tours of Capri exploring this enchanting part of the island. The famous Piazzetta, with its prestigious cafes' and surrounded by whitewashed buildings, the beautiful Augustus gardens with its enchanting views, the narrow winding streets with delightful small shops. During the day you'll enjoy some free time for coffee and lunch breaks and of course for some shopping opportunities.

Note:  If you want to see the world famous Blue Grotto, your guide will set up a tour for you.

Or if you would like to enjoy some more walking, our guide will take you on a hike along the secluded paths lined with stone walls and citrus groves to explore the Villa Jovis built by Tiberius, your guide will be with you for the full day and at your disposal for customization of the tour itinerary if requested. Our day tours of the island of Capri conclude with a journey by hydrofoil back to the port of Naples.

**Ask us for further details.

Take a private car transfer from Sorrento to Naples Railway Station to travel by train from Naples to Florence. Travelling in First-class reserved seats on a hi-speed Euro-star train departing Naples at 10.00 am arriving in Florence at 12.51 pm (or the nearest time available).

Upon arrival in Florence you’ll be met by our representative for your private car transfer to your hotel. Rest of the Day at your leisure.

OPTIONAL: Small Group Tour of the Uffizi and Santa Croce Church**

Enjoy an in depth tour of the masterpieces of the Uffizi gallery along with the visit of one of the most famous churches of Florence , Santa Croce , burial place of many Italian greats , including Michelangelo and where you’ll see works of art by many famous artists such as Donatello, Giotto, Della Robbia in the celebrated Medici Chapel.

After completing the visit of this extraordinary church , we make our way to the Uffizi gallery to see the famous masterpieces by artists such as Giotto, Botticelli, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raffaello, Tiziano, Caravaggio, just to name a few.

You will be introduced to the intriguing symbolism of Botticelli, learn to recognize the color-shading technique used by Da Vinci, hear how the creative genius of Michelangelo changed art forever.

**Ask us for further details.

During our Original Renaissance walking tours of Florence you will see and discuss the Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Davanzati, Palazzo Strozzi, the Duomo (Cathedral of Florence), Giotto's Bell Tower, Baptistery, Vasari Corridor, Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio and many other important sites that will assist your expert Florence Guide narrate the history of Florence over the centuries.

Of course, the tour pays particular attention to the Renaissance period when Florence was heralded as the "New Athens". And when the world looked to Florence for inspiration in the fields of Art, Science and Philosophy. Relive those incredible years in the history of Florence, and learn about the notorious Medici Family and other famous personalities that played there role in the birth of the Renaissance as one of our expert Florence Tour Guides provides a lively and entertaining lecture style tour of Florence.

Skip the line tickets, walk straight into the Accademia where you'll enjoy an in-depth discussion on Michelangelo's David other works by the genius of the Renaissance. You'll appreciate the art and history backgrounds of our Licensed Expert Guides as they reveal the secrets behind one of Italy's most celebrated works of art. This small group walking tour of Florence will finish inside the Accademia allowing you to discover other precious works on display.

You will have some free time in the afternoon.

OPTIONAL: Tuscan Cooking Class and Dinner, 4.5hrs**

Meet your guide and the rest of your small group near Piazza Santa Trinita in central Florence. After making your introductions, walk to the nearby cooking school, housed in a medieval Tuscan palazzo across the Arno River.

As you cross the river, stop to admire the views of the magnificent Ponte Vecchio. Then, when you arrive at the school, head inside and find your allocated spot in the modern kitchen.

Next, listen avidly as a friendly, expert chef talks you through the 4-course dinner you’re about to cook.

Your menu will vary according to the day of your class and the availability of ingredients, but typically, you can expect to prepare a classic Tuscan meal of favorites such as potato gnocchi (dumplings), Hunter’s Chicken (chicken stew), and a dessert such as tiramisu.

Put on your supplied apron and set to work following the provided recipes. As you prep, get helpful tips from the chef and gain valuable insights into local culinary traditions and techniques that you can use to impress family and friends back home.

With your meal ready, take a seat at the communal table in the charming dining area and savor your finished dishes in the company of your fellow cooks. As you eat, enjoy a glass of wine — your experience includes a complimentary bottle shared between four people.

Discuss your efforts with your companions and learn the strengths and weaknesses of your dishes in the eyes of your chef.

After your convivial meal, receive a recipe booklet to take home with you and then say your goodbyes. Your tour ends when you leave the cooking school.

**Ask us for further details.

Offered Mondays or Fridays only

The Small Group Tour of Siena, San Gimignano and Chianti starts at 9am and runs until 6pm in the evening. You will have all the time you need to experience the beauty of the countryside. Since you are in a small group, our very experienced English speaking driver -guides have far more time to interact with you and answer any questions you may have.

Siena

With your driver-guide, you will leave from Florence city center at 9am, and from there you’ll drive through the gorgeous Chianti countryside. The first stop is at Siena – a beautiful Tuscan hill town with its famous Piazza del Campo ( Campo Square) , where the famous Palio , a horse race , is held twice a year - spend time in Siena touring the city and experiencing its medieval narrow streets.

Lunch at a Chianti winery

From Siena, we’ll then drive to a well-known winery in the Chianti area - Monterinaldi or similar, spending two hours or so there. You’ll be able to find out a little about how the popular wines for this region are produced. And then, it’s time for lunch! You’ll enjoy a selection of Bruschettas, salamis and cheeses accompanied by three superb chianti wines plus vinsanto.

San Gimignano

After lunch we will then travel to San Gimignano one of the most charming and picuresque Tuscan hill towns. It boasts medieval towers that were built for the richest families of that period. You can visit the cathedral, climb the ‘Torre Grossa’, take pictures of the stunning scenery which will be surrounding you and enjoy gelato in Cistern Square.

San Gimignano to Florence

After leaving San Gimignano, the tour returns to Florence via the Chianti area once again. We will stop at the medieval and charming village of Monteriggioni, one of the most important and preserved walled castles in the area. Such was its importance – it was mentioned in Dante Alighieri in his most famous work - the Divine Comedy.

Today is free to explore this incredible city.

 After a leisurely breakfast, you will be met in your hotel by our representative for your private car transfer to the train station to travel to your next destination – Venice. Travelling in First-class reserved seats on a hi-speed Euro-star train departing Florence at 10.30 am arriving in Venice at 12.35 pm (or the nearest time available).

Upon arrival in Venice you’ll be met by our representative for your Private Water-Taxi Transfer with an English-speaking hostess to your centrally located hotel in Venice.

In the afternoon  enjoy your Private  Venice Gondola Ride,  a 35-minute Gondola Ride in a traditional Venetian Gondola exploring the narrow and meandering canals of the San Marco districts the quintessential tour for the first time-visitor.

 Rest of the Day at your leisure.

Today explore  this historic city on a Private Venice walk to explore the environs of St. Marks Square and highlights of Venice with skip the line reservations to enter St. Marks Basilica. The tour operates on a private basis just for you.

* You can also opt to take the walking tour on your arrival day to Venice or moving the gondola ride to the following day.

Remainder of day at leisure to explore on your own.

Today you will be transferred from your hotel to the Marco Polo Airport for your flight home with a lifetime of memories!