Your Itinerary
Welcome to beautiful Italy, a diverse country with something for everyone! Ancient ruins lie next to modern buildings and cobblestone alleyways next to busy streets. Home of pizza, pasta, olive oil and wine, Italy is known as a food lover's paradise. Fashion lovers from all over the world flock to Italy for the latest clothing, shoes and handbag designs.
We begin our tour in the lively city of Bologna, characterised by its red-brick palazzi, towers and lengthy porticos.
We don’t want you to miss out on any aspect of your small group tour. To ensure that you don’t, we recommend you arrive at your hotel by 5.00pm.
This evening, meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director for a welcome drink at the hotel.
Get ready to fall in love with Bologna’s historic charm today on a walking tour. This delightful city is a hidden gem, rich in history, stunning architecture and a vibrant culture. On our adventure we’ll stroll through Piazza Maggiore, Bologna’s lively main square, and take in the grand Fontana del Nettuno, a 16th-century fountain that’s an absolute showstopper. You’ll also spot the impressive Basilica di San Petronio, the 5th largest church in the world.
We’ll wander through Piazza della Mercanzia, a picturesque medieval square, before stepping inside the Archiginnasio, which was once the heart of the University of Bologna, the oldest university in the world. We’ll also see the Church of Santa Maria della Vita, home to a breathtaking sculpture by the legendary Niccolò dell'Arca. We’ll also catch a glimpse of the famous Due Torri — Bologna’s iconic leaning towers that have stood proudly for centuries.
We'll end the tour with a visit to a popular local gelateria and enjoy a serve of the famous Italian ice-cream.
With the rest of the day at leisure, why not try Bologna’s famous tortellini or tagliatelle for lunch? Be sure to savour these delicious local pasta dishes that the city is known for.
Tonight, we enjoy a group welcome dinner.
This morning, we embark on a scenic drive from Bologna, watching the landscape transform beautifully from the city’s lively atmosphere to lush green fields as we enter the Emilia-Romagna region. Often hailed as the gastronomic hub of Italy, Emilia-Romagna region is home to some of Europe’s most iconic culinary treasures, and today, we’ll dive into the heart of it all.
Special Experience
Experience the 'Food Valley', heading to Emilia Romagna to taste cheese and to Modena to try the famous balsamic vinegar and prosciutto.
Our first stop will be a cheese factory, where we’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the art of making Parmigiano Reggiano, followed by a delightful tasting paired with local wine. Next, we’ll visit a family run prosciutto producer, just outside Parma, to sample some of the finest prosciutto. This will be complemented by a glass of local sparkling wine, Lambrusco.
We’ll then head to Modena to visit a renowned balsamic vinegar producer. Here, we’ll discover the meticulous process of creating this liquid gold and enjoy tasting its rich, complex flavours.
With our bellies happy and full, we’ll continue our drive toward Venice, where we’ll be spending the next two nights. Famous for its winding canals, charming piazzas, and gondola-filled waterways, Venice is as magical as it gets. It’s a city that will leave you spellbound, and we can’t wait to explore it with you!
Venice, the city of romance, is like nowhere else on Earth. Built on 118 islands and connected by canals instead of roads, it’s a city where cars are banned — and even the postmen and police get around by boat. It’s a truly unique place, and we’ll explore it together on a walking sightseeing tour.
We’ll start at the stunning St. Mark’s Basilica, where you’ll be in awe of the shimmering mosaics and grand Byzantine design. It’s easy to see why Napoleon once called St. Mark’s Square the "drawing room of Europe."
Next, we’ll visit the Doge’s Palace, the heart of Venice’s former power. This beautiful building combines gothic and Renaissance styles, and inside, you’ll find rooms brimming with history and art. We’ll also pass by the famous Bridge of Sighs, where prisoners once took one last look at the outside world on their way to the nearby Piombi Prison. The history here is palpable!
After the tour, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You could take a peaceful gondola ride along the canals, stroll across the Rialto Bridge, explore the lively markets or relax with a coffee in one of Venice’s charming squares.
This morning we’ll set off on a scenic drive to Verona, known as the “City of Love” which was made famous by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Verona is a true treasure, with its cobbled streets, beautiful squares and ancient Roman amphitheatre that predates the Colosseum in Rome. We’ll have some free time to explore the historical centre, which earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage-listed status. While you're here, why not treat yourself to some local specialties like risotto all'Amarone?
We will continue our journey to Franciacorta, a region known for its beautiful countryside and sparkling wines. The drive will take us through rolling hills where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see — a perfect prelude to the delicious wine we will sample here. During our tasting, we’ll learn about the ancient Franciacorta winemaking method, a tradition that’s deeply woven into the fabric of this region.
Special Experience
Visit a famous wine cellar in Franciacorta for a tasting, accompanied by some local cheeses and smallgoods.
Finally, we’ll make our way to Como, arriving in the evening. Nestled at the foot of the Alps and overlooking the stunning Lake Como, this charming town feels like something straight out of a postcard.
After breakfast, we discover some of the towns nestled along spectacular Lake Como.
Our first stop is Menaggio, a lakeside town known for its historic city centre, cobblestone streets, cozy cafes and beautiful lakeside promenade. After a brief orientation, we’ll board a public boat for a scenic ride to our next destination, Varenna.
Once we arrive in Varenna, a small but incredibly picturesque village, we’ll embark on a guided tour to discover its hidden treasures. Afterwards, we’ll have some free time to explore at leisure. Here, you could wander through the lovely gardens of Villa Monastero or relax by the lakeside with a gelato.
Our last town of the day will be beautiful Bellagio. Known as the “Pearl of Lake Como,” Bellagio boasts colourful streets, lovely piazzas and stunning views of the Alps. After a guided tour, we’ll have some free time for lunch, perhaps indulge your taste buds in a fresh plate of pasta or some local fish dishes by the water.
Our visit today will end as we hop on a boat to Bellano, where a bus will transfer us to the capital of the Lombardy region, Milan.
Today we will explore the world capital of fashion and design, Milan. Known for its sleek style and sophisticated culture, this city is a perfect blend of modern elegance and historic charm. Our day will begin with a guided walking tour, taking us through some of Milan’s most iconic sights.
We’ll delve into the impressive Sforzesco Castle, a grand fortress that once housed Milan’s ruling families. It’s brimming with historical antiquity and art, including works by Michelangelo himself. We’ll also explore the magnificent Duomo, the most impressive structure in Milan and the largest church in Italy. Its intricate gothic architecture and towering spires are nothing short of breathtaking.
The elegant Vittorio Emanuele Gallery invites us to stroll through its stunning shopping arcade that dates back to the 19th century. The glass dome and lavish surroundings will transport you to a time of luxury, and you might just be tempted by Milan’s finest boutiques lining the arcade.
Once our tour wraps up, the afternoon is all yours to enjoy at leisure. You might want to explore the Brera district, known for its art galleries and upscale cafes. Alternatively, you could visit the Biblioteca Ambrosiana, a historical library in the heart of Milan housing masterpieces from the likes of Leonardo Da Vinci and Raphael.
Day 9 - Milan - Langhe Region
This morning, we’ll wave goodbye to the chic streets of Milan and set off on a scenic drive to the refined city of Turin. Upon arrival, we’ll dive into a guided sightseeing tour, starting with the grand Royal Palace. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed property, this former residence of the House of Savoy is a true architectural marvel, home to ornate tapestries, grand staircases and an Armory of bygone weaponry. Upon entering the palace grounds, keep your eyes peeled for the striking golden relief of Medusa on the palace gates — an iconic symbol of the palace’s rich history.
Next, we’ll pass by the impressive Duomo, Turin’s stunning cathedral. This is where the world-famous Shroud of Turin is kept, adding a fascinating layer of mystery to this already beautiful structure.
After our tour, we’ll have some free time for lunch. Turin is knowns for its rich culinary scene, so why not indulge in some classic agnolotti, delicious stuffed pasta or sample some bicerin, a traditional chocolatey coffee drink?
We’ll continue our journey to the hilly region of Langhe. A foodie’s paradise, the Langhe region is renowned for its gastronomic delights including wine, truffles and over 100 types of cheese.
Tonight, we’ll get to enjoy dinner with a local resident, a great way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and way of life.
Today, we’ll be exploring the breathtaking Langhe region, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasure known for its rolling hills, ancient winemaking traditions and the delicate art of truffle hunting. We’re in for an unforgettable experience as we dive into both!
Special Experience
Take to the woods in search of the Langhe region’s famous truffles with a trifulau (truffle hunter) and their trained canine.
After they share their knowledge of this centuries-old tradition, it’s our turn to get our hands dirty and search for these prized delicacies. Truffle hunting is a true adventure, and the thrill of finding a piece of “delicious gold” is something you won’t soon forget!
Once we’ve worked up an appetite, we’ll head to a local farm where we’ll sample fresh, locally-produced goods paired with a glass of regional wine — including truffle of course!
Our next stop will be Serralunga, where we visit the medieval Castello di Serralunga d'Alba. Unique in Italy given its French ‘donjon’ architectural structure, this grand castle is centuries old and was originally built as a base to control local production. Surrounded by the gorgeous Barolo vineyards, it is considered to be one of the best conserved examples of 14th-century castles in Piedmont.
We continue our journey to Alba, famous for its white truffle and wine production. Here we’ll enjoy some free time before a group dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 11 - Langhe Region - La Spezia
Today, we’ll enjoy the stunning vistas as we make our way to Genoa, a city rich in history, culture and maritime heritage. Nestled on the coast of the Ligurian sea, Genoa is famous for its medieval old town, colourful buildings and the vibrant port that has shaped its identity. We will enjoy a short orientation of the city before some free time for lunch. Genoa is known for its seafood, perhaps savour a plate of Ligurian para or indulge in slice of focaccia, a local specialty.
After our time in Genoa, we’ll continue to the harbor town of La Spezia. Known as the gateway to the spectacular Cinque Terre, La Spezia has a relaxed yet lively vibe. It also hosts the arsenal of the Italian Navy and is one of Italy’s major military and commercial harbours, making it a fascinating blend of both visual allure and industrial strength.
We’ll enjoy a brief orientation tour of La Spezia, after which the rest of the day is free to explore at your own pace. You might want to stroll along the waterfront, explore the Piazza De Ferrari in the old town or treat yourself to a gelato.
Day 12 - La Spezia – Cinque Terre – La Spezia
We’re in for a real treat today as we explore one of Italy’s most iconic and picturesque coastlines, the Cinque Terre! This region is made up of five colourful seaside villages, each clinging to steep terraces and surrounded by ancient vineyards. What makes the Cinque Terre so unique is that these villages are only accessible by foot, train, or boat — cars can’t get in! It’s a truly special place, and it’s no wonder it’s been a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1997. The villages date back to the early medieval period, giving them a rich, fascinating history.
As we wander through these charming towns, you’ll notice the bright, bold colours of the houses. Interestingly, this vibrant look didn’t come about until the 1970s, but it’s now part of what makes the Cinque Terre so photogenic and loved by visitors. You’ll also find local artisan shops, gelato bars, cafés and restaurants where you can taste the authentic flavours of the region.
We’ll take a train to the Cinque Terre, where we’ll tour Vernazza, Monterosso and Manarola or Riomaggiore, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon we’ll make our way back to La Spezia by boat.
Day 13 - La Spezia - Pisa - Florence
Sit back and enjoy the beautiful Tuscan countryside as we make our way to Pisa, a city famous for its Leaning Tower. As we drive through rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the stunning views that make this region so special.
Once we arrive in Pisa, we’ll visit the Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the magnificent cathedral, the Baptistery, the iconic Leaning Tower. Construction began in the late 12th century, and after 200 years, this unforgettable tower leans at a 4-degree angle due to poor foundations. You’ll have some free time here to explore the monuments up close and have your own photo taken ‘holding up’ the Leaning Tower.
This afternoon we will arrive in Florence and explore the heart of the Renaissance. Our tour commences at the grand Piazza del Duomo where we see the Cathedral of Florence (the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore). It was here in the 15th century that Filippo Brunelleschi designed its distinctive dome. The engineering behind the dome was revolutionary for its time and it remains the world’s largest brick dome to this day. We also visit Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with Ghiberti’s bronze ‘Gate of Paradise’.
We continue to the Galleria dell’Accademia and Michelangelo’s incomparable statue of David, sculpted by the master at the age of 26. This marble statue was carved in the early 16th century as a symbol of youth, strength and beauty.
Day 14 - Florence - Tuscany - Florence
Today we escape the bustle of Florence and explore the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
Our first stop will be the medieval town of Siena, a true gem nestled in the hills. We’ll wander through the iconic Piazza del Campo, the town’s main square, famous for its unique shell shape and the exciting Palio horse race held every summer. We’ll also see the stunning Cathedral and Baptistery, masterpieces of Gothic architecture with intricate details that are sure to leave you in awe. Along the way, we’ll pass by the Basilica of San Domenico, a peaceful spot with rich history.
After some free time to relax and enjoy lunch, we’ll continue to UNESCO World Heritage-listed San Gimignano. Sitting atop a hill, it’s a sight to behold on the Tuscan horizon. Known as the ‘Town of Fine Towers,’ many of its medieval tower houses are still standing tall, a reminder of the power and wealth of local families. We’ll take an orientation tour, followed by free time to explore on your own.
Special Experience
A tour to Italy is never complete without learning more about the local cuisine. We’ll learn the art of simple Italian cooking and enjoy our creations over dinner.
After a wonderful day of exploration, we’ll return to Florence.
Today is all about taking it slow, soaking in the sights, and enjoying Florence at your own pace. This city is best discovered on foot, with charming streets around every corner, each offering something new to explore. If you’re feeling artsy, head to the Uffizi Gallery in the morning, where you can admire masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo da Vinci, and Michelangelo. You can take a leisurely stroll along the Arno River, stopping by quaint boutiques and artisan shops as you go.
You can wander through the beautiful Boboli Gardens and enjoy the fresh air and wonderful scenery.
For lunch, why not indulge in some delicious Tuscan cuisine at a local trattoria? Fresh pasta, local wine, and, of course, a slice of rich Italian gelato from the Gelateria dei Neri to round it all off.
Day 16 - Florence - Pompeii - Sorrento
This morning, we journey from Florence by train to the ancient city of Pompeii. Once we arrive, a local guide will lead us through the famous ruins. Pompeii, a prosperous Roman city, was buried for centuries by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. The volcanic ash preserved much of the city, both inside and out, offering a rare and detailed glimpse into Roman life.
As we stroll through Pompeii, you’ll be surrounded by homes with colourful frescoes, ancient shops, public baths and even a Roman amphitheatre—it truly feels like stepping back in time.
After exploring the ruins, we’ll continue to the beautiful coastal town of Sorrento, gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Built into the cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples, the sweeping views will take your breath away.
Once we check in, you’ll have the evening free to explore this vibrant town. Why not treat yourself to a delicious dinner in the town centre, enjoy a freshly made pizza and zesty limoncello spritz, all while watching the sunset?
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Day 17 - Sorrento - Isle of Capri - Sorrento
After breakfast we’ll make our way to the Sorrento port to board the ferry to Capri, an island famed for its dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters and glamorous lifestyle. As we cruise across the sea, you'll get a glimpse of the stunning coastline – so if you can, sit on the left side to really enjoy the view!
Capri has long been a hotspot for celebrities and historical figures, from Emperor Augustus in 29 BC to the likes of Tiberius, Mussolini and even the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe. These visitors left their legacy, making Capri a true Mediterranean treasure, with its rugged landscapes, café culture and brilliant bougainvillea.
Upon arrival, we’ll take a minibus up to the hilltop village of Anacapri. From there, we’ll explore the picturesque streets of Capri itself, filled with boutique shops and coastal vistas as far as the eye can see. Once our tour is complete, you’ll have some free time to wander the island, enjoy lunch, or simply relax in one of the many cafés. On our departure, we’ll take a scenic funicular ride down to where we’ll board the ferry back to Sorrento, taking in the beautiful surroundings as we return.
After a leisurely breakfast, today’s all about soaking up the charm of Sorrento at your own pace. You can start by strolling through the historic centre, stopping at Piazza Tasso to sip an espresso and do a little people-watching. If you're in the mood for adventure, head down to the waterfront and take a boat ride along the breathtaking coastline. The views from the water are absolutely stunning!
For those who love a bit of culture, the Museo Correale is a must-see, offering a delightful look at local art and history. Or, if shopping is more your speed, explore the charming boutiques and pick up some handmade ceramics or even a bottle of limoncello as a memento.
Of course, you can always spend your free time simply relaxing at a café with a ‘Sorbetto al Limone’ – lemon sorbet served in a Sorrento lemon! Today is all about doing what makes you feel the happiest, before enjoying a musical this evening.
Special Experience
Visit a local teatro for a performance of the ‘Sorrento Musical’, a vibrant musical depicting life on the Sorrentine Peninsula centuries ago.
The cast sing traditional southern Italian folk songs, including the Tarantella. Although this performance is in Italian, it is easy to follow and an enjoyable show for all.
Day 19 - Sorrento - Amalfi Coast - Sorrento
Today we enjoy an excursion along the Amalfi Coast, one of Italy’s most visited destinations. Known for its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and enchanting seaside towns, it’s no wonder this coastline is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site.
Enjoy the views as we travel past the stunning coastline, driving along Italy’s most popular stretch of road. Our first stop will be Positano, a picturesque town that seems to tumble down the mountainside in a cascade of colourful houses. You’ll have free time to wander the steep but photogenic streets, explore boutique shops or simply relax on the beach.
Next, we’ll hop on a ferry to Amalfi, allowing us to appreciate these magnificent views from the water. The Amalfi Coast stretches for 50 kilometres along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, and there’s no better way to appreciate its beauty. We’ll then have time to explore the namesake town of Italy’s famous coastline. Visit the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, wander the winding alleyways and or shop for local souvenirs.
In the afternoon, we’ll make our way back to Sorrento by bus, giving us one last time to enjoy everything Sorrento has to offer.
As the famous saying goes ‘all roads lead to Rome’, and that is where ours will head today! We’ll be departing the beautiful southern coast for Italy’s sprawling capital and one of the most famous cities in the world, Rome. Filled with historic icons, picturesque streets and bustling piazzas, it’s easy to see how the locals have been enjoying la dolce vita since 753 BC.
On our journey to Rome, we’ll make a stop for a lunch. After checking into our hotel, we’ll embark on an orientation walk to get our bearings of this amazing city. Rome is a place where history comes alive with its ancient ruins, magnificent palaces and lively squares full of cafes and fountains. We’ll take a leisurely stroll through the city, and you’ll start to see why Rome is lovingly called the Eternal City.
Your evening is free to start soaking up the magic of Rome at your own pace. There are many small pizzeria’s dotted throughout its bustling streets, serving up pizza by the slice. Grab one to go, find a spot on some nearby steps, and enjoy a front-row seat to the city’s vibrant energy.
With over 280 fountains, many of which are centuries old, the Eternal City is a living museum, full of history, iconic monuments and unparalleled beauty at every turn. Today, we’re going to explore this incredible city on foot, starting with a visit to the Colosseum. This iconic amphitheatre, once home to thrilling gladiator games, could hold up to 80,000 spectators! As we stroll through its ancient walls, it’s easy to imagine the crowds cheering and the excitement in the air.
We’ll venture to Palatine Hill, one of Rome’s oldest locations and often considered the birthplace of the city. It’s here where emperors once lived, and the views of the city from the top are absolutely stunning. Just below us, we’ll wander through the Roman Forum, where ancient temples, bustling markets and grand government buildings stand in silent witness to the past.
We’ll also pass through Piazza Venezia, a lively thoroughfare with imposing structures and impressive architecture, and enjoy panoramic views from Capitoline Hill. Did you know Capitoline is home to some of the world’s oldest museums?
After soaking in all this history, the rest of the afternoon is yours enjoy at leisure. Why not visit Bocca della Verità, a large marble disc depicting a man’s face with an open mouth, known as the ‘Mouth of Truth.’ According to legend, those who are accused of lying place their hand inside the mouth and if found guilty, would lose the appendage.
Challenging Day
Today is a particularly challenging day, where there will be extended periods of walking time, often across uneven ground and in areas of high altitude or heat and humidity.
Today is all yours to explore Rome at your own pace, and there’s so much to explore! For a taste of history, head over to Trajan’s Market, the world’s first shopping mall, dating all the way back to 110 AD. It’s an impressive feat of ancient architecture, giving you a real sense of life in Roman times. While you’re out and about, keep an eye out for an ancient Egyptian obelisk standing tall in the heart of the city—just one of the many reminders of Rome’s vast empire.
Take a stroll over to Vatican City—the world’s smallest sovereign state—tucked entirely within the city of Rome, perched on a hill just west of the River Tiber. You can explore the impressive St. Peter’s Square, enclosed by a beautiful circular boundary creating a perfect balance of symmetry and elegance. You may even catch a glimpse of the Swiss Guards, who stand proudly in their bright uniforms, guarding the Pope and territory of the Vatican. Giving the popularity and nature of this place, it is advised that you book tickets well in advance if you wish to visit the famous Sistine Chapel and incredible museums.
If you're in the mood for some more leisurely exploring, take a stroll through the beautiful Villa Borghese gardens or enjoy a coffee at one of the charming cafés in Piazza Navona. And if you’re up for a bit of shopping, the fashionable Via Condotti is just around the corner, perfect for finding that special Roman souvenir.
This evening, we’ll come together to savour our experience over a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the end of our Italian adventure. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 24 - Arrive Australia
Day 24 - Arrive Australia
