About the Holiday
This is a truly picturesque tour, and at 20% off it is not to be missed...
Itineraray
Day 1 - Rome
Monday. Welcome to Italy! Arrive into Rome airport where you will be met and transferred to the start hotel. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure exploring the capital. This evening at 19:00 meet the tour leader and other members of the group for a welcome meal.
Overnight: Rome | Dinner
Day 2 - Rome City Tour
Step back in time this morning as we follow the path of the ancient on a guided tour of the historic capital. Our first stop is to the Roman Forum, the former religious, political and commercial centre of ancient Rome followed by the mighty Colosseum where gladiators would battle to the death for glory before visiting the Pantheon, the best-preserved Roman building. Other highlights include the Spanish steps and the romantic Trevi fountain. The afternoon is free for you to independently explore the city or make your way to the Vatican, home to the Pope and the spectacular Sistene Chapel.
Overnight: Rome
Day 3 - San Gimignano wine tasting
Rome - San Gimignano - Florence. We leave the capital behind today and make our way north to the little town San Gimignano, nestled in the Tuscan Hills overlooking the Chianti region. We visit local vineyard to sample some delicious Chianti wine and explore this picturesque town which is famous for its medieval towers, before continuing our journey to Florence, Tuscany’s Renaissance capital. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to explore this fascinating city.
Overnight: Florence
Day 4 - Florence sightseeing
Our day begins with a walking tour through Florence’s cobbled streets discovering the extraordinary architecture, wonderful sculptures and world-class museums. Strolling through the historical centre, we'll take in highlights such as the Duomo, standing tall over the city with its striking red dome and beautiful bell tower, Palazzo Vecchio in Piazza della Signoria and the beautiful Ponte Vecchio with its ancient gold shops.
The afternoon is ours to continue exploring Florence at our own leisure. Head to the famous Galleria Del Accademia, home to Michelangelo's most famous sculpture "David", visit the vast Uffizi Gallery or walk to the Piazzale Michelangelo which offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, sit back and sip on some local wine and feast on the mouth-watering Tuscan cuisine.
Overnight: Florence | Breakfast
Day 5 - Leaning Tower of Pisa and Lucca
Florence - Pisa - Montecatini. This morning finds us travelling to the famous Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa to take photos of the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. We then have some free time to enjoy lunch and walk around the city before we continue our journey to the charming Tuscan city Lucca, located on the Serchio river and surrounded by its original Renaissance walls. Here we have some time to walk along walls encircling the city, or sip on a glass of Lucchesi wine in one of the lovely bars. We continue to Montecatini, home to Italy’s pristine spas famous for their curative powers, and our base for the next two nights.
Overnight: Montecatini | Breakfast
Day 6 - Cinque Terre day tour
Today we set our sights on exploring the five captivating, pastel hued fishing villages of Cinque Terre, which cling to the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. We explore the villages of Monterosso, Riomaggiore, Vernazza, Corniglia and Manarola at leisure using our Cinque Terre pass which allows us to travel between each village on the quaint 19th century railway, as cars have been banned for over 10 years. For those looking to enjoy spectacular views, we recommend walking along one of the scenic coastal trails. This evening we dine together at a local trattoria in Montecatini.
Overnight: Montecatini | Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7 - Venice Walking Tour
Montecatini - Venice. Bidding farewell to our tour leader this morning, transfer to Florence train station for an unescorted express train journey from Florence to Venice. Upon arrival at Venice train station make your way to the hotel which is just a two minute walk from the station.
This afternoon take in the delights of Venice on a walking tour with a local guide. Marvel at the glorious Venetian architecture, as you wander along the waterways and down the winding narrow streets of the island. Highlights include the beautiful Rialto Bridge, which spans the Grand Canal and the Bridge of Sighs, St Marks Square and a tour of the spectacular St Marks Basilica with its golden domes. Your final evening is free to independently explore and perhaps enjoy a traditional Gondola ride along the canals.
Overnight: Venice | Breakfast
Day 8 - Venice
Monday. Our Italian adventure comes to an end after breakfast and hotel check out today. If you wish to spend longer in Venice, post tour accommodation can be arranged upon request.
Breakfast
For set departures on 15 April, 06 May and 2019 starting in Rome.
