Italy, located in Southern Europe, is a captivating fusion of diverse cultural experiences, historical marvels, and stunning natural landscapes. From the ancient wonders of Rome, where the Colosseum and Vatican City narrate centuries of history, to the artistic treasures of Florence, home to masterpieces and architectural splendors, Italy offers an immersive journey into its rich heritage. The iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa, the fashion-forward metropolis of Milan, and the enchanting canals of Venice further contribute to this multifaceted tapestry, where history, art, and culinary delights converge.
About this trip
This 10-day journey is tailored for those who value independence with the added advantage of local guidance. The itinerary seamlessly integrates included activities and free time, providing an opportunity to relish both structured exploration and personal discoveries. Embrace the enchantment of historic sites and vibrant cities, but do prepare for walking during guided tours.
Day 1 Canada - Rome
Depart for Rome.
Day 2 Rome
After arrival, transfer to the hotel. Check the information boards in the hotel reception area for details of the welcome meeting with your guide and fellow travelers.
Day 3 Rome
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT: City tour of Rome. Night transfer to Trastevere area.
We will enjoy a panoramic tour to give you an introduction to the Eternal City, finishing at St Peter’s in the Vatican, where you will be able to visit the Basilica and museums. In the evening, we transfer to the Trastévere, the busy city district well known for its typical restaurants. Return to hotel.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 4 Rome
Free day. You can enjoy the charm of this city. Free time to explore and discover memorable places.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Rome - Florence
TODAY’S HIGLIGHTS: Tour with a local expert from Florence. View from Piazzale Michelangelo.
We will leave Rome, heading north. This route is graced with beautiful landscapes. Upon arrival in Florence, we head straight to Piazzale Michelangelo, an impressive site in the city and then we provide a panoramic tour with a local expert and walk through the historic center. In the afternoon, we recommend a visit to its famous markets. Florence is one of the most recommendable Italian cities for shopping or for visiting any of its important museums.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Florence - Pisa - Cinque Terre - Genoa
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT: Wonderful Ligurian coast. Pisa. Train to Cinque Terre.
Today we continue our journey towards Pisa. On a little tourist train we will travel to the Piazza Dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), where there will be time to admire one, the well known Leaning Tower of Pisa. After this we head to the Ligurian Coast, with some of the prettiest coastlines in Europe. We will visit the Cinque Terre which has been declared UNESCO World Heritage Site. It comprises of five villages, almost isolated by road, which live on fishing and tourism. Given the difficult access by road, we go by train to Vernazza, which maintains its appearance of a citadel, with its outstanding Church of Santa Margarita built in 1318, overlooking the sea. Time to take some lunch. Afterwards we travel by train to Levanto, where we re-join the coach to continue to Genoa.
Note: The train to Cinque Terre is a regular local railway service, not a tourist service. Sometimes the trains are full (it is not possible to book places on these trains) so it might be necessary, on occasion, to travel standing and not seated.
DAY 7 Genoa - Santa Margarita - Portofino - Milan
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT: Boat trip to Portofino. Milan.
We will continue our journey to the nearby city of Santa Margarita Ligure, where we will embark for Portofino, one of the most exclusive places in Europe. Enjoy a stroll by the sea and time at leisure. After lunch, we continue to Milan, the busy northern city in which we recommend a visit to the cathedral.
Note: Due to weather conditions in winter, sometimes the boat to Portofino does not operate, in which case access will be by urban microbus (poor quality service, sometimes long waiting times).
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Milan - Lakes Region - Verona
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT: Lakes region. Mountain landscapes, alpine lakes, villages of great beauty.
Today we see one of the most beautiful scenic areas of Europe, the region of the Italian lakes. Firstly, we will travel to Lake Orta in Orta de san Giulio, a well-preserved medieval city. We take a train ride to reach the center of the medieval town, and then a boat to the Island of San Giulio, a little island on the lake with a monastery. After this we go on to Lake Maggiore, stopping in Stresa, where we have the option to visit the Borromean Islands, and especially Isola Bella with its gardens and palace (closed in the winter). Time for lunch. After lunch, we go on to Verona.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 Verona - Venice
TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT: Visit of Venice. Murano glass factory in Venice.
We will have time to see Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet before leaving for Venice, where we arrive at about 13.00. We include a boat trip to the area of St Mark’s Square, with a local guide we take a stroll around the City of Canals. There will also be a chance to admire the glasswork of Murano. Afterwards enjoy some leisure time, maybe a trip in a gondola.
Meals: Breakfast
Day 10 Venice - North America
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast
