Best of Italy - Preview 2017

13 days
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4.6/5 Excellent
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USTOA

Group Tour
The essence of ‘la dolce vita' is explored through the cuisine, art and landscapes of Italy, from its iconic cities and turquoise lakes to its balmy southern shores. You'll enjoy Insider moments like… taking a private boat to secluded Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore, where Signor Telli takes you for a traditional meal at his restaurant – a place inspired by a y...

Overview

Trip type
Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy

Highlights

    • City tour in Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Assisi, Milan and Florence
    • Orientation of Venice
    • Visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museum, the Roman Colosseum, the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Monte Cassino, the excavations at Pompeii, St. Francis Basilica in Assisi, picturesque Lake Como and the medieval city of Siena
    • Cruise to the beautiful Isle of Capri and by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice
    • View the Benedictine Abbey at Monte Cassino, Juliet's Balcony in Verona, the Byzantine St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, the Gothic Cathedral and La Scala Opera House in Milan, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo in Florence
    • See the ancient sites of Rome including Circus Maximus

What's this trip about?

    The essence of ‘la dolce vita' is explored through the cuisine, art and landscapes of Italy, from its iconic cities and turquoise lakes to its balmy southern shores. You'll enjoy Insider moments like… taking a private boat to secluded Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore, where Signor Telli takes you for a traditional meal at his restaurant – a place inspired by a young prince who used to play here.

Details

Itinerary focusOperator does not provide
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age rangeNo age restrictions
Flights and transportAll internal ground transport included
Start CityRome
End CityRome

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural
  • National Parks
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

  • Europe
  • Italy

Attractions

  • Assisi
  • Florence
  • Isle of Capri
  • Lake Como
  • Milan
  • Pisa
  • Rome
  • Venice

Activities

  • Culture
  • History
  • Nature

Trip includes

    • Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
    • Hand-picked 4 and 5 star accommodation
    • Hand-picked Insider Experiences
    • Optional Experiences and free time
    • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
    • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
    • An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
    • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
    • VIP entry to many sights
    • Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing

Popular Trips

Itinerary

1. ARRIVE ROME (2 NIGHTS) Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City. Spend the rest of your day relaxing or take a leisurely stroll around the city. Join your companions and Travel Director later for a Welcome Reception. Enjoy an orientation drive to see St. Peter's Basilica and other sights - a great introduction to this beautiful city. Meal(s) Welcome Reception Hotel Una/Il Cantico Authentic Accommodation 2. ROME SIGHTSEEING AND FREE TIME Your included sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist begins at the Vatican Museums. Experience a Cultural Insight in the Vatican when you ascend the smooth and step-less spiral staircase designed by famous architect Donato Bramante. Admire Michelangelo's magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel and then visit St. Peter's Basilica to see his famous Pietà. Your tour continues in ancient Rome. See the Circus Maximus where chariot races were held and visit the impressive Colosseum. There's time afterwards to explore the city on your own, or simply relax and watch the world go by. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast 3. ROME – CASSINO – POMPEII – SORRENTO (2 NIGHTS) Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery and enjoy views of the Montecassino Abbey. Your Local Specialist tells you all about the devastation caused by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79 during your walking tour of Pompeii. Arrive later at your hotel in Sorrento where you dine tonight. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Dinner with wine Hotel Johanna Park/Conca Park 4. ISLE OF CAPRI EXCURSION Witness the intricate art of inlaid woodwork, a Cultural Insight for which Sorrento is famous. Later embark on an included excursion by ferry to the Isle of Capri. Visit Capri Town and other sights during your tour with a Local Specialist. Spend time exploring this lovely island on your own. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast 5. SORRENTO – ASSISI Assisi is a mystical town perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio overlooking the peaceful Umbrian landscape. Under the protection of St. Francis this city is still enclosed by medieval ramparts. Your Local Specialist takes you on a walking tour which includes a visit to the Basilica of St. Francis, famous for its frescoes depicting the life of this much-loved saint. Spend time afterwards exploring on your own and shopping for souvenirs. Dine at your hotel this evening. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Dinner with wine Hotel Cenacolo Authentic Accommodation 6. ASSISI – VERONA – VENICE (2 NIGHTS) Today enjoy the glorious countryside and historic architecture of the Emilia Romagna region. This area is also renowned for its cuisine such as tortellini, mortadella and parmesan cheese. Travel to Verona, the home of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers, to admire the Roman arena and Juliet's balcony. Arrive later in Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Dinner with wine Hotel Grande Albergo Ausonia & Hungaria Authentic Accommodation 7. VENICE ORIENTATION AND FREE TIME Your cruise by private launch to St. Mark's Square is magical. View the Bridge of Sighs, the beautiful Doge's Palace and the Basilica. Gain a Cultural Insight into the ancient art of glassblowing at a traditional workshop on Giudecca Island. Spend free time seeing the sights of your choice. You might like to cruise across the lagoon to the Island of Burano and enjoy a delicious meal. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast 8. VENICE – MILAN – LAKE MAGGIORE (2 NIGHTS) Cross the plains of Lombardy to Milan for a walking tour of this fashionable city with your Local Specialist. View the Duomo, La Scala Opera house and the famous Galleria. Dine tonight at your hotel. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Dinner with wine Hotel Simplon 9. LAKE COMO EXCURSION Travel to the beautiful Lake Como with free time to explore or simply soak up the scenery. This evening take a private boat to an island on Lake Maggiore for a special Be My Guest dinner experience. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Be My Guest Dining 10. LAKE MAGGIORE – PISA – FLORENCE (2 NIGHTS) Cross the Plains of Lombardy, the forested Apennine Mountains, and pass by Genoa to Pisa. View the extraordinary Leaning Tower before arriving in Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance. Tonight you might like to sample some local Tuscan cuisine. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Hotel Grand Hotel Mediterraneo/Adler Cavalieri 11. FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING AND FREE TIME Your Local Specialist brings the city's rich history to life during your walking tour. View the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio and visit Piazza della Signoria. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo. Spend free time exploring or shop for high quality leather and gold. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast 12. FLORENCE – SIENA – ROME Set in scenic Tuscan countryside visit the medieval town of Siena, famous for its exciting Palio horse race. This evening in Rome join your Travel Director and new friends for a Farewell Dinner. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast Farewell Dinner Hotel Sheraton Parco De Medici 13. DEPART ROME Say ‘arrivederci Roma' at the end of your memorable holiday in Italy. Transfers are available to Rome Fiumicino Airport. Conditions apply. Meal(s) Buffet Breakfast

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Dates & Availability

Price From $3,083
Price per day$237
Last Updated: 8/2/2018

Check current availability, prices, specials & more.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Tour Operator

Trafalgar

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At Trafalgar, we passionately believe in the power of travel to broaden the mind and build bridges between people. By sharing with you the hidden places not mentioned in guidebooks, the local people you wouldn’t otherwise meet, and the traditions you may not have experienced by yourself, we ensure that you get the ‘insider’ view, an authentic and enhanced experience you simply could not have had on your own.

It is this dedication to taking our guests beyond the obvious sights that has helped us grow over the past 65 years into one of the most trusted and successful international guided vacation/holiday companies in the world. From Europe to the United States, South America to South Africa, and with the recent addition of Asia, we pride ourselves on uncovering the hidden gems, cultural highlights and not-to-be-missed attractions of the places you visit. We’ll help you delve deep into the heart of each city and capture the true essence of each new destination.

We are committed to establishing lasting relationships with our guests by exceeding their expectations the first time and every time, through consistently outstanding quality of service, experience and value.

We're proud to be the most globally awarded guided travel company. Every year, we win some of the most prestigious travel accolades around the world – from the Travel Globes to the Agents' Choice Awards. We've collected 46 major travel awards over the last five years alone, as well as the Gold Trusted Merchant Award from independent reviews provider Feefo.

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About the company:

As the world’s most awarded and loved travel company, Trafalgar unlocks the best of the world for every traveller. From the iconic sites to breaking bread with locals at private Be My Guest experiences, guests can be assured of a dream holiday without the stress of 'what ifs'. Committed to Make Travel Matter, Trafalgar aims to make a positive impact on locals, communities and wildlife visited, and the planet we call home. With tried and tested tours, created by local travel experts in destination and enjoyed by more than 5million happy guests, Trafalgar’s proud to be recognised by its Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award.

Trafalgar is part of the family-owned and run The Travel Corporation (TTC), driven by service for over one hundred years.

 

Why we love this operator
Their travelers enjoy 24/7 travel expertise and dedicated service throughout the trips - everything is taken care of.
What they’re known for
Tours and experiences that include everything from the iconic sites to breaking bread with locals, guided by expert travel directors.

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Logistics

Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Meals Included
  • 12 hot buffet breakfasts.
  • 7 dinners
  • (including Be My Guest).
Age Requirements
No age restrictions
Optional Activities

Notes Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.

Rome Piazzas and Fountains of Rome Adult Price: €33.00 Discover the most charming areas in the city with a Local Specialist. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and beautiful squares of Rome's historic centre, leading to highlights such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, as well as hidden corners of the Eternal City. Roman Evening with Dinner Adult Price: €61.00 Spend a light-hearted evening with us in Rome. Relax and enjoy typical Italian cuisine with drinks and music. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a drive and provide a glimpse into how Romans enjoy their city. Sorrento Amalfi Coast and Positano Adult Price: €43.00 Come with us for a drive along the famous Amalfi Coast. You’ll have a chance to visit the exclusive artists’ paradise of Positano, which is magnificently positioned on the Mediterranean coast. Experience The Isle Of Capri Adult Price: €40.00 Experience Capri's spectacular cliffs, famous turquoise waters and white grotto the best way: by boat. In Capri town, enjoy a lemon granita, a specialty of the island. Or if the weather doesn't allow, we'll take you on a tour of the island to Anacapri, and a visit to Villa San Michele. Sorrento Farmhouse Dinner Adult Price: €49.00 A scenic drive takes you through the Sorrentino countryside to an 18th century Olive Oil mill. You’ll enjoy a guided visit of the gardens, mill and wine cellar, followed by a simple meal of traditional pizza and wine. And there'll also be the chance to see how mozzarella and pizza are made. Neapolitan Dinner and Dance Adult Price: €61.00 Join us for an evening of Neapolitan specialities at one of our favourite family-run restaurants. While you’re wined and dined, local artists – including performers who’ll demonstrate the famous Tarantella dance – will take centre stage. Venice Gondolas and the Grand Canal Adult Price: €70.00 Join us for a scenic cruise by private water taxi along Venice's Grand Canal. You’ll admire the magnificent palazzos, as well as catching a glimpse of the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. Later on, you'll glide gracefully on a gondola along Venice’s dreamy, narrow waterways. Venice's Secrets and St. Mark's Basilica Adult Price: €36.00 Explore the hidden maze of streets which make up this unique city as your Local Specialist gives you a fascinating insight into Venice's past and present. You’ll visit the majestic basilica of St Mark, where you’ll have a chance to view some of the prized trophies looted by the Venetians in their rise to power. Alternatively, we’ll visit the outside terrace for exceptional vistas. Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks Adult Price: €70.00 Join us as we discover the Venetian Lagoon by private boat. You will enjoy a delicious meal with a selection of drinks on the fishermen's island of Burano, famous for its multi-coloured houses - a real photographer's paradise. Milan Treasures Of Milan Adult Price: €45.00 Join our Local Specialist at the impressive Castello Sforza museum, where you’ll see the 'Pieta of Rondanini' by Michelangelo, among other great works. Your tour finishes with a visit to the world renowned 'La Scala' opera house and museum.When La Scala or the Castello is unavailable, you’ll visit the Museum of Milan. ITALIAN LAKES Discover The Borromean Islands Adult Price: €39.00 We've organised a private launch to take you to the beautiful islands of Lake Maggiore. Here you'll see the Isola Madre, the Isola dei Pescatori, and on the Isola Bella we visit the magnificent palace of the Borromean Princes (this optional is only operated between mid March and the end of October). Discover Lake Como Adult Price: €38.00 Enjoy views of elegant villas and gardens as you cruise with your Local Specialist along Lake Como, one of the most beautiful spots in the Italian Lake District. Florence Dinner, Wine And Music In The Tuscan Hills Adult Price: €64.00 Join us for a scenic drive through the beautiful Tuscan countryside. We will enjoy a meal at a charming restaurant where a selection of regional favourites is served, accompanied by a selection of the local wines and live music. A truly unforgettable experience, with an atmosphere that is the essence of all things Tuscan. Michelangelo's 'David' & Accademia Adult Price: €40.00 Enjoy an insight into the world of Michelangelo and his masterpiece, David. We have fast track entry to the Academy of Fine Arts and its Michelangelo collection, where you’ll learn all about the life and works of this immortal Renaissance genius through the expert commentary of our Local Specialist.

Additional Information
Trip ID
trafalgar-BesItaPreTra

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