Day 1 Arrive Venice
Arrive Venice -On arrival take a water taxi and arrive at Venice Islands. Make way to your hotel. Overnight in Venice.
Day 2: Gondola Ride, Afternoon Murano Burano & Torcello
Morning at around 1115 hrs enjoy a Gondola ride. Take this enchanting gondola tour and glide through centuries of history, allowing you to be captivated by the glamour and elegance of the Venetian Palazzi.
The perfect way to appreciate the beauty, charm and colour of this unique city built on water; you will be enthralled and entranced by your surroundings. Relax and enjoy the romantic tranquillity of the Serenissima, unlock the secrets of Venice and her intriguing labyrinth of canals. Feel part of an ancient Venetian tradition and experience Venice as the locals have for more than a thousand years. Once upon a time the most noble and wealthy of families would have travelled around by gondola. This charming tour will take you one step closer to the romantic façades of Venice and will enable you to understand what it was to be truly Venetian. Unwind and relax into the gentle rhythms and movements of the Grand Canal in the area of the Great Church of Santa Maria della Salute, erected in in the 17th Century as a votive offering for the deliverance of the local population from the Black Death. Appreciate the skill involved in steering the gondola through the intricate waterways near the Fenice Opera House, twice burned down and twice rebuilt from the ashes.
Discover the lagoon islands of Murano Burano and Torcello.
Departing (1415 hrs) from the famous St. Mark’s Square with motorboat, the first stop is Murano, where you can see the antique art of making glass and lampworking. Murano has been famous for its glassmaking since the thirteenth century when the Venetian Repulic ordered all glassmakers to leave the mainland because of fear of fire. Most settled in Murano and quickly became the most prominent citizens.
The second island stop is Burano, known for its lacework and brightly coloured homes. Your guide speaks English, Spanish, German and French and is happy to tell you all about the history of the area, including its visit by Leonardo da Vinci.
The third and last stop on the three and a half hour tour is Torcello, a quiet and sparsely populated island. It is considered the oldest continuously populated region of Venice and once held the largest population of the Republic of Venice. Torcello was once more powerful even than Venice itself, due to the lagoon’s salt marshes that were Torcello’s economic backbone and its close trading and cultural links with Constantinople. The island has since fallen in fortune, but relics of its bygone glory still remain, including the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta, founded in 639 and still containing stunning mosaics to this day.
Day 3: Best of Venice and Doge’s Palace Walking tour
Get your walking shoes on and join this marvellous guided tour to see the best of what Venice has to offer including a visit to the beautiful Doge’s Palace. This tour takes in all the highlights of the floating city and with Skip the Line access you cut out the waiting time at the main attractions.
We meet up at the bronze statue of the famous playwright Carlo Goldoni and from here stroll down to the Rialto Bridge. This stunning marble bridge has rightly captured the imagination of many an artist over the centuries since its construction in the 16th century. Although vastly over budget when built, no one can deny its majestic beauty as it spans the busy Grand Canal.
As we wander around the narrow alleyways, saunter along gondola spotted canals and stroll across bustling piazzas your informative guide will enthral you with stories relating to the city. Make note of the Venetian explorer Marco Polo’s house and hear stories of how this valiant man crossed the oceans to explore Asia way back in the 13 century.
Cross St Mark’s Square and breathe in the atmosphere – alive with the sounds of musicians and banter coming from the cafe terraces. Marvel at St Mark’s Basilica with its ornate domed exterior and opulent gold and mosaic interior. Then continue on to the Doge’s Palace with its intricate lace like facade and sumptuous interior with frescos by Tintoretto and Veronese. The tour ends at the Bridge of Sighs where prisoners would sigh at their last view of Venice before being sent to their cells.
Day 4: Venice – Florence, Florence Night walking tour
Today morning make way to Venice St Lucia station to catch your train at 1125 hrs and arrive Florence S M Novella Station at 1330 hrs. On arrival make way to your hotel.
Your tour starts (2000 hrs) at the Piazza della Signoria, where your guide begins your journey by giving you a brief history of Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Make your way to the iconic Ponte Vecchio, the arched bridge that crosses the River Arno, covered with dozens of speciality shops. Revel in the glow of the bridge, lit in golden lights that starkly contrast with the dark night sky.
Move from the Ponte Vecchio to the famed Duomo as your guide tells you about forbidden romances, terrifying ghost stories, and unexplainable curiosities that have happened on the very streets you're walking on. Pass the massive Uffizi Gallery, whose stone façades appear stark and moody in the night-time hours.
Once you arrive at the Duomo, bask in the glory of this enormous church, its orange and white colours shining like a beacon in the blackened evening. Listen as your guide tells you the infamous legend of when the golden sphere of the Duomo's cupola crashed to the earth. As the tour ends, return to your hotel and leave the splendour of night-time Florence in your wake.
Day 5: Florence
Visit the Uffizi and the academia galleries
Day 6: Siena, San Gimignano & Greve in Chinanti with Wine Tasting tour
Discover the natural beauty of Tuscany with a tour of its most impressive places.
Highlights
- Guided tour of Siena
- Stroll through the centre of San Gimignano
- Sample local wines at a local winery
Travelling through typical Tuscan countryside with a panoramic view of Monteriggioni along the way, we reach our first destination of Siena. A splendid medieval city, it’s universally revered for its artistic treasures.
Visit inside the Basilica of San Domenico, amble along the medieval streets flanked by splendid palaces before arriving at the spectacular 12th century Cathedral, on your guided two hour tour of the city.
If you chose the option to visit the famous Siena Cathedral, and its Libreria Piccolomini, you will discover the beauty of its treasures and works of art. The not-to- be-missed floor, decorated with the art of mosaics to create storytelling masterpieces, St. John the Baptist by Donatello, the Rose Window by Duccio di Buoninsegna, the Marble Pulpit by Nicola Pisano and the Library which kept a rich collection of manuscripts.
Your will then be taken to the Oratory of a Contrada, an intimate and secret place containing historical documents and wonderful relics of the famous Palio. End the tour at the famous Piazza del Campo, where the world renowned Palio horse race takes place every year, from where you have some free time to continue exploring the city and to have lunch.
From Siena, head out on the open road through vineyards and olive groves in the heart of Chianti territory to San Gimignano, also known as the “Manhattan of the Middle Ages” for its numerous and beautiful towers. Stroll through the centre before heading to the rolling Chianti hills in the evening. Arrive at a typical winery, take a walk amongst ancient vineyards and sample four wines. Our final stop is the picturesque village of Greve to admire its famous square and end a memorable experience in the heart of Tuscany.
Day 7: Florence – Riomaggiore (Cinque Terra)
Today early morning arrive Florence Sm Novella station to catch your train at 0828 hrs and arrive Riomaggiore station at 1102 hrs. (this is the last train showing currently). On arrival make way to your hotel.
Day 8: Cinque Terra Hike to Corniglia with Tastings
Explore one of the most scenic and dramatic coastal regions in the world on this rewarding hiking trip through Cinque Terre. After a refreshing trek to Corniglia, get the chance to taste amazing examples of local food and drink as you soak in the breath-taking views around you.
Your journey begins in quaint Manarola, where you first take a stroll through the town down to the marina. A winding path takes you along the seashore, giving you spectacular views of the coast, cliffs, and brightly coloured houses rising above you on both sides. From there, catch a bus that takes you to the hilltop village of Volastra. At 1,148 feet (350 metre) above sea level, Volastra offers gorgeous views of the Mediterranean and the emerald-covered hills that roll on in all directions. It's here that you begin your leisurely trek to Corniglia.
Walk over terraced slopes and through lush vegetation as you make your way along the trail. The entire hike is lined with stunning scenery, from the azure sea off the coast to the postcard-worthy hills inland. Once you arrive in Corniglia, roam past sweets-coloured houses before taking a break for some refreshments. Sample exquisite local products, including Ligurian olives, freshly made pesto, and warm focaccia or bruschetta, washing your meal down with a beautifully aged Cinque Terre wine. After pleasing your palate and savouring the cliff-side views, it's time to head back to Manarola with an easy downhill walk.
Day 9: Riomaggiore (Cinque Terra)
Day at leisure.
Day 10: Riomaggiore – Rome
There is no evening train. No option via Florence also. Only the below connection is available.
Arrive at the station for your train at 0903 hrs , arrive Pisa Central station at 1038 hrs, from Pisa central station take the connecting train at 1107 hrs and arrive Rome Ostiense station at 1420 hrs.
Take connecting train to Rome Central station (around 29 mins, purchase locally). On arrival to Rome Central station make way to your hotel.
Day 11: Morning Classic Rome Tour, Afternoon Vatican Museum, Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica
An itinerary by coach and on foot to visit the classic monuments of Rome. Crossing Piazza della Repubblica with the Fountain of the Nayads, our local guide will take you on a pleasant stroll through the historical centre, where you can admire the Trevi Fountain, La Colonna di Marco Aurelio, the Palazzo di Montecitorio, designed by Bernini, the Pantheon (visit inside), Palazzo Madama - seat of the senate, Piazza Navona, Via dei Coronari (the Antiquarians Road). Passing alongside Castel Sant'Angelo and along Via della Conciliazione, we arrive at the Basilica of St. Peter where the guide will provide explanation from outside. You will have the opportunity to admire the Pieta, a masterpiece of Michelangelo on your own. No transportation back to the hotel is provided.
The Vatican Museums attract millions of tourists every year and it’s clear to see why. Come and see for yourself the beautiful artwork and artefactswhich inhabit the museums from Vincent Van Gogh’s Pietà, after Delacroix, which is housed in the Collection of Modern Religious Art, to the Augustus of Prima Porta in the Braccio Nuovo. The various sculptures and paintings are a sight to behold and at night they’re even more so.
After the visit to the Museums you will be taken to the renowned Sistine Chapel, the official residence of the Pope in Vatican City. Get a taste of the architecture and art which has gone into making the Sistine Chapel what it is today, with work from some of Italy’s most famous Renaissance artists, including Michelangelo and Pinturicchio. See the gorgeous Sistine Chapel Ceiling, covered in art including The Creation of Adam and many more pieces by Michelangelo.
Visit the renowned St Peter’s Basilica. Venture inside the Basilica and find yourself lost in the amazing architecture and artworks which have gone into bringing this magnificent building to life. Created during the Renaissance period, the building is filled with art from famous Italian artists of the time and was even designed by the famous Michelangelo himself. See the beautiful altar which sits above the resting place of the tomb of St Peter himself, taking pride of place as the centrepiece of this wonderful example of Renaissance architecture. Take this fascinating tour through the Vatican City!
Day 12: Rome
Day at leisure
Day 13: Rome – Naples – Sorrento – Positano
Arrive Rome Termini station to catch your train at 0910 hrs and arrive Naples Central station at 1020 hrs. From Naples Central go down to the basement and take the Circumvesuviana (narrow gauge train) suburban train to Sorrento which has to be purchased locally. From Sorrento you can take the bus to Positano (again tickets to be purchased locally). Overnight in Positano
Day 14: Amalfi Coast Experience
Drive along the Amalfi Coast passing spectacular views and rolling hills on your way to visit three of the most beautiful villages in the south of Italy – Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. Enjoy leisure time to sightsee at your own pace and roam narrow streets lined by centuries-old buildings.
After pick-up from your hotel in a comfortable air-conditioned coach, head to the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Stop for photo opportunities before reaching Positano, a lovely hillside town with colourful buildings cascading down to the sea and enjoy free time to browse shops, walk along the beach or visit the church of Santa Maria Assunta if you wish.
Next, head to Amalfi and drive through the beautiful villages of Praiano, Furore and Conca dei Marini. Spend a few hours in Amalfi, the original town of handmade paper production, and see why this is one of Italy's most famous holiday spots as you admire Mediterranean architecture and picturesque white houses seemingly piled one upon the other.
Last, stop in Ravello and take in unparalleled vistas of the coast from this charming little town. As you explore on your own, get a chance to visit Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century villa with beautiful gardens and exquisite views, before getting a lift back to your hotel.
Day 15: Full Day Capri and Anacapri - tour ( starts at 0900 hrs ) pick up from Sorrento.
Take a bus from Positano to Sorrento on your own to be in time for your tour to Capri.
Known for its rugged scenery, world-class hotels, and designer shopping, Capri has long been a favourite holiday destination of the rich and famous. Relax and enjoy the island's sights on this full-day tour, which shows you both the town of Capri and Anacapri.
Depart from Sorrento in the morning, and board a jet boat to reach the island of Capri, heading first to the hilltop comune of Anacapri. Visit Villa San Michele, built by the Swedish doctor and author Axel Munthe, and spend time wandering among the town's charming shops and open-air cafes. You can also catch a chairlift to Monte Solaro to admire the incredible panoramas from the highest point on the island.
Next, descend to the picturesque town of Capri, characterised by quaint, maze-like streets and alleys. Walk through the famous Piazza Umberto I to check out its designer boutiques and chic restaurants, and then admire the colourful Gardens of Augustus. Overlooking the sea, these botanical gardens offer views of the towering Faraglioni rocks and the turquoise bay of Marina Piccola. Take some free time to stroll among the terraces, and then make your way back to the waterfront to catch your return boat to Sorrento. Make way to your hotel in Positano.
Day 16: Positano – Naples - flight Home
From Positano take a bus to Sorrento and from there take a train to Naples Central station and from the central station you can take a shuttle service to Naples airport.
Arrive Naples airport on time for you flight Back home.