Your Itinerary
Welcome to Italy and to the famed city of the Roman Empire, the Seven Hills, ‘La Dolce Vita’, the Vatican City and ‘Three Coins in the Fountain’!
Italy is 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 also flock to Italy for the latest clothing, shoes, and handbag designs.
Rome, Italy’s historic capital, is home to a plethora of wonderful palaces, churches, grand ruins, opulent monuments, ornate statues and graceful fountains. This romantic city seamlessly blends its cosmopolitan atmosphere with its rich historical heritage, making it one of the world’s most visited, famous, influential and beautiful capitals.
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.
Meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director this evening for a welcome drink at the hotel.
Today we explore Imperial Rome by foot, visiting some of the city’s most famous sites, including the Roman Forum, Piazza Venezia, the Capitol, the Imperial Palace and lastly, the Colosseum. The Colosseum is one of the most famous sites in Rome and was the largest amphitheatre built in the Roman Empire. Capable of seating 50,000 spectators, the Colosseum was used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, including mock sea battles, animal hunts, executions, re-enactments of famous battles, and dramas based on classical mythology.
The afternoon is free for you to further explore, before making your own way back to the hotel in time for a group welcome dinner this evening.
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.
A full day of leisure is on the agenda today for you to explore Rome at your own pace. Perhaps you want to uncover one of the city’s impressive museums, or revisit a famous site we explored yesterday?
Whatever you do, the choice is yours. Make sure to take some time to wander Rome’s cobblestone streets, and immerse yourself in its culinary delights – did someone say pizza or pasta, followed by a delicious gelato? Yes please!
Day 5 - Rome - Pompeii - Sorrento
Saying goodbye to Rome this morning, we continue on our journey to the beautiful coastal town of Sorrento, gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Built into the cliffs overlooking the sparkling Bay of Naples, the sweeping views here will simply take your breath away.
En route, we’ll visit the ancient city of Pompeii, where a local guide will take us on a walking tour of the famous ruins. The prosperous Roman city of Pompeii lay buried for hundreds of years after the eruption of the Vesuvius volcano in the year 79AD, and it is one of the most significant examples of Roman civilisation. The volcanic material that covered Pompeii kept the city largely intact, including both the exteriors and interiors of many buildings. We’ll have some free time to wander around and marvel at the ruins, before continuing along Italy’s beautiful coastline to Sorrento.
Special Experience
Enjoy an Italian culinary experience, with a hands-on lesson teaching us how to make pizza the authentic way.
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 6 - Sorrento – Isle of Capri – Sorrento
Today our eyes are set on the glamorous Isle of Capri, renowned as a playground for the rich and famous! We’ll meet our local guide after breakfast and make our way to the Sorrento port, where we’ll board the ferry that will take us to Capri. The ferry between Sorrento and Capri skirts a stunning stretch of the coast so, if you can, sit on the left side to soak up the view!
The emperor Augustus was the first to discover the beauty of the Isle of Capri in 29BC, and was followed by many others including Tiberius, Lenin, Mussolini, the Swedish doctor Axel Munthe and the factory owners Krupp. Each one of these guests influenced Capri's culture which continues to enchant the many visitors it receives today. A true jewel of the Mediterranean, Capri is known for its rugged seascape, café culture and brilliant bougainvillea.
On arrival we’ll take a minibus up to the hilltop village of Anacapri. After our tour, enjoy some free time to explore this beautiful island before we return to Sorrento later this afternoon.
Day 7 - Sorrento – Amalfi Coast – Sorrento
We’ll say ‘ciao’ to the beautiful Amalfi Coast today, enjoying an excursion to this scenic spot. The Amalfi Coast stretches for 50 kilometres across the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula. Its rugged cliffs and the beautiful villages that cling to the hillsides make it one of the most picturesque destinations in all of Italy. Make sure you pack your cameras today!
We’ll spend time in two of the main towns along the coast, Positano and Amalfi. The small village town of Positano is a seaside paradise, famous for its colourful buildings that cling to the steep hill of the town and encircle a beautiful beach. Here, we’ll have free time to explore some of the pretty shops and cafes dotted along the steep but photogenic streets.
From Positano, we’ll take the ferry to Amalfi, allowing us to appreciate these wonderful views from a different perspective. We’ll have time to explore the namesake town of Italy’s famous coastline, brimming with winding alleyways and vibrant architecture – what more could you ask for?
We return to Sorrento where the rest of the day is free for you to enjoy at leisure. Limoncello, Italy’s famous lemon liqueur, has traditionally been made from the zest of Sorrento lemons for more than 100 years. Maybe try some after dinner as a ‘digestivo’?
Day 8 - Sorrento – Alberobello
We make our way to Alberobello today, a charming town in the Puglia region famous for its unique trulli – distinctive cone-shaped houses that are a symbol of this area. The trulli are made of limestone and built without mortar, using a dry-stone technique that dates back to prehistoric times. These stone buildings have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site since 1996.
We bid farewell to Sorrento and make our way to the region of Apulia, which forms the iconic heel of Italy’s boot. On arrival in Alberobello, we’ll learn about the origins of the 15th-century buildings on a walking tour of the town’s historical centre.
The rest of the day is at leisure to further explore this unique town.
Special Experience
Spend two nights staying in a traditional, heritage-listed trullo, a conical shaped house unique to the region of Puglia.
Day 9 - Alberobello – Monopoli – Locorotondo – Alberobello
Discovering the seaside town of Monopoli is on the agenda for this morning. Located on the Adriatic coast, the town was first settled around 500 BC as a fortified Messapian city. We’ll have some free time here to explore the unique surrounds, including the Baroque Monopoli Cathedral with its tall bell tower.
Our next stop for the day is the picturesque white town of Locorotondo, a delightful destination situated in the heart of the Puglia region. We’ll enjoy some free time to discover the centre and have a chance to try some of its locally made products.
Tonight, just before dinner, we have the privilege of experiencing a brief, hands-on demonstration by Nonna herself as she skilfully crafts traditional orecchiette at the restaurant.
Day 10 - Alberobello – Ostuni – Matera
Our journey today takes us to Matera, a town famous for its sassi – the ancient cave dwellings that appeared in Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ. As we approach Matera later this afternoon, our first glimpse of this unique town will be one that you’ll remember forever – almost as if you’ve stepped back 2,000 years in time.
Special Experience
Take a tour of a local olive farm. Located on the plains of the Marina di Ostuni, the impressive olive trees are thought to be up to a thousand years old.
Before arriving in Matera, we make our way to Ostuni, a 3,000-year-old city perched atop a hill overlooking the Adriatic Sea. This charming, fortified town known as ‘La Città Bianca’ (The White City) has a very exotic feel – more Greek or Middle Eastern than Italian. We will enjoy some free time to wander through the narrow streets and alleyways, mingle with the locals or just sit in one of the many bars and restaurants and watch the world go by.
In Ostuni, you’ll also be able to find a beautiful range of locally produced handicrafts. The items being produced and sold are not cheap but are completely unusual works of art and well worth taking home as a lovely reminder of your visit.
Special Experience
Stay in one of Matera’s impressive sassi cave residences for two nights.
Please note: The sassi cave dwellings are located right in the heart of Matera’s ancient cave town, which dates back thousands of years. This means there are multiple flights of stairs, plenty of steps and uneven cobblestone ground to navigate. Rooms are scattered across multiple levels, accessed from outside - they are not inside a singular building. Meeting our mobility and fitness requirements are essential. No two rooms are the same with quirky layouts that can be dimly lit. While these rooms are still comfortable remember you are staying in a cave! These are incredibly unique and a once in a lifetime experience to stay in this unforgettable location.
The town of Matera was declared a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site in 1993 for being ‘the most outstanding, intact example of a troglodyte settlement in the Mediterranean region, perfectly adapted to its terrain and ecosystem’, and there is a lot to explore if you’re intrigued. It is the perfect city for simply wandering, but you can also see historic reconstructions of cave life in the past or visit one of the rock churches or museums.
This morning we’ll take a walking tour of this unusual town and this afternoon you’ll have free time for further discovery.
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 12 - Matera – Taormina Riviera
This morning we farewell mainland Italy and make our way to stunning Sicily. Sit back and enjoy the scenery as we drive south through Calabria to the town of Villa San Giovanni, where we’ll board a ferry across the Strait of Messina to Sicily. The scenic drive will take us through the mountains, villages and along stretches of coastline and we’ll make some stops along the way.
Once in Messina, we’ll follow the coast to the spectacular Taormina Riviera. This relaxed area earnt the nickname of the ‘Pearl of the Ionian Sea’, and it’s not hard to understand why. Neighbouring mighty Mount Etna, Taormina’s unique location and stunning natural beauty make it one marvellous destination to visit. Lucky for us, this area is our home for the next two nights!
Day 13 - Taormina Riviera – Mount Etna – Taormina Riviera
Today we visit Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano at approximately 3,350 metres high. To the ancient Greeks, Mount Etna was the realm of Vulcan, God of Fire, and the home of the one-eyed monster known as the Cyclops. Over 1,200 square metres of Etna’s surface is covered with solidified lava. We’ll see lava stones, make plenty of photo stops and then have some free time for lunch.
In Taormina, we’ll embark on a walking tour of the town. We will see the picturesque Duomo that dates back to the 13th century. Over the years it has been reconstructed and restored and displays a great blend of Renaissance and Baroque design aesthetics. We’ll also marvel at the ancient Greek amphitheatre and take a leisurely stroll through the charming narrow streets of the old town.
The rest of the day is at leisure to immerse in Taormina at your own pace.
Day 14 - Taormina Riviera – Palermo
Our eyes are set on reaching Palermo today, the capital and the largest city in Sicily. This coastal city has been invaded many times over the years, resulting in a very mixed architectural appearance with Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, baroque and modernist influences.
First, our journey takes us northwest across the island to the town of Cefalù, one of the most beautiful villages in all of Sicily. Sitting snug between a sandy bay and the towering granite rock of La Rocca, Cefalù offers something for every traveller. Here we’ll enjoy some free time to wander the medieval streets and have lunch.
We take the coastal route to Palermo, where you can enjoy the evening at leisure discovering this beautiful Mediterranean city.
This morning is dedicated to exploring the delights of Palermo. Our tour begins at the red-domed Moorish church of St John of the Hermits. Dating back to 1132, the church was built on the grounds of a mosque and has been inspired by Islamic traditions of five mosque-like domes.
We’ll then visit the Norman Cathedral (Palermo Cathedral), also heavily influenced by an Arabic design style, before continuing on to the Royal Palace, once the seat of power for Italy's kings during the Norman domination. The palace is set on a plateau away from the city traffic and, like much of Palermo's architecture, it has a mixture of influences from its long history. The greatest influence came from Roger II in the 12th century when he summoned Arab and Byzantine artists to decorate and reinvent the castle. The most outstanding of these are the Byzantine mosaics that depict stories and images from the Old and New Testament.
The afternoon is at leisure for you to relax or explore at your own pace.
Day 16 - Palermo – Monreale – Agrigento
Today we’ll discover the ancient wonders of Agrigento, a hilltop town on the southwest coast of Sicily. Once the Greek city of Akragas, this town was settled by descendants from Rhodes and Crete who found the land and climate to be perfect for grape and olive growing. The ruins of the ancient city of Akragas are the main attraction of this relatively small town, which we’ll explore this afternoon.
On our way to Agrigento, we travel to Monreale, a picturesque town on the slopes of Monte Caputo. Here we’ll see the UNESCO-listed Cattedrale di Monreale, a masterpiece of Norman architecture that features stunning mosaics and a beautiful cloister. We’ll also enjoy a brief tour around the town of Monreale, admiring its quaint streets and taking in the views over the Conca d’Oro, or Golden Valley. After some free time for lunch, we’ll follow the southern coastline to Agrigento.
Located on the outskirts of Agrigento, the Valley of the Temples is one of Sicily's most historical attractions. Here we’ll explore the spectacular archaeological site that preserves the ruins of seven ancient Greek temples and other monuments. We’ll marvel at the Temples of Juno, Concord, Heracles, Zeus, Castor and Pollux, and learn about their history and significance.
In the late afternoon, we arrive in Agrigento and check into our hotel.
Day 17 - Agrigento – Malta
The beautiful, yet tiny, country of Malta offers a contemporary Mediterranean lifestyle, full of traditional customs and contrasts. It is often described as an open-air museum, with over 7,000 years of history set against the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea.
Before we board the ferry for Malta, we continue along the Mediterranean coast, stopping to explore in the beautiful Ragusa region. The region is famous for its rich red wines that are usually made from a blend of Nero d’Avola, Frappato and Pignatello grapes. In Ragusa we’ll enjoy a short walking tour of the old town, discovering its hidden gems.
After some free time, we’ll make our way to Pozzallo and take the ferry to Malta. We’ll arrive in the evening and transfer to our hotel.
We’ll spend the day discovering Valletta, Malta’s capital. Founded in 1566, Valletta bears all the hallmarks of a fortified city, yet within its walls its elegant urban features reveal an architectural opulence steeped in history. The city is a living testimony to the legendary Knights of the Order of St John. Their extravagant palaces, and the Co-Cathedral of St John, are renowned for their wealth of artistic treasures.
Beginning in ‘Strada Reale’, or Republic Street as it is better known today, we walk amongst the locals until we reach one of the jewels of Malta: The St John's Co-Cathedral. Its exterior is deceivingly simple, while inside you’ll find incredible baroque art and architecture. The Grandmasters and several knights donated gifts of high artistic value and made enormous contributions to enrich it with only the best works of art, including Caravaggio’s masterpiece – the Beheading of St. John the Baptist.
With the Co-Cathedral behind us, we make our way to St. George’s Square, the centre of the city, where we see the Grandmaster’s Palace from the outside. We also discover the Casa Rocca Piccola, a privately owned 16th-century palace and home of the noble Maltese family de Piro.
Special Experience
Watch the world go by while enjoying a coffee and freshly prepared pastries known as pastizzis at a well-established café, in the heart of Valletta.
This afternoon we’ll experience Malta in 5D at a show that brings 7,000 years of island history to life before visiting the Upper Barracca Gardens. Situated near the entrance of the city, these gardens offer a breathtaking panoramic view over the Grand Harbour, considered to be the finest natural harbour in the Mediterranean.
To finish the day, we enjoy a cruise in a traditional dhajsa boat (similar to a Venetian gondola) along the harbour to witness Malta's living past. Cruise around the natural Grand Harbour of Valletta and learn about the town's history and the Great Sieges of 1565 and 1942.
This morning we take a short ferry ride to the tiny island of Gozo. The island's charm lies in its picturesque landscapes, pastoral villages, and quaint churches. Although the islands of Malta and Gozo are similar in history, Gozo has a character entirely of its own. Gozo is the home of the prehistoric Temples of Ggantija in Xaghra and this is where we begin our sightseeing today. The temples date back to the Neolithic Age (3,600 - 2,500BC) and are believed to be the oldest free-standing religious structures in the world, pre-dating the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge.
Next, we’ll explore the capital of Gozo, Victoria, where we’ll see the Citadel and the lovely Bay of Xlendi. We’ll also have some time to wander around and shop for some souvenirs. Renowned for its woollen goods and handmade lace, it is the perfect opportunity to purchase some souvenirs.
Special Experience
Visit a traditional Maltese restaurant, where we’ll enjoy a tasting of local Gozitan wine over a light lunch.
Enjoy the day at leisure to relax or discover more of Malta at your own pace.
Tonight, we’ll experience the charm of Mdina, the former capital of Malta. The medieval city is enchanting at night, when the old lanterns light up the empty and narrow streets. As we walk through the walls of the venerable ‘Silent City’, we’ll feel like we’ve travelled back to The Middle Ages. We’ll also enjoy the best and most unique view of the island from the bastions.
Our tour guide will reveal the secrets of the city and its nocturnal residents, such as the story of the White Lady of Mdina. The silence in Mdina is eerie, but also captivating.
After our walk we’ll enjoy a group farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Optional Excursion
Hagar Qim Temple & Marsaxlokk – This fantastic excursion begins at one of Malta's jewels – the Blue Grotto. With its dazzling blue sea, it will leave a striking impression. If weather permits, you will have the opportunity to take a boat ride (boat fee not included) around the caves and grottoes where you can experience the luminescent corals and glowing water. Your guide will then show you the prehistoric temple complex of Hagar Qim which was discovered in 1839. It dates from about 3,800 BC, and it is one of the oldest known man-made structures in the world. The temple stands on a hilltop overlooking the sea and the islet of Fifla. Finally, you will proceed to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk where you have free time to explore and admire the most picturesque seaside locality in Malta. Fishing nets are often spread on the quay to dry in the sun and, quite often, fishermen can be seen mending these nets. These activities, together with the modest fishermen's houses by the quayside, lend the place charm and serenity. 5hrs – from Euro 124pp (minimum 4 people)
Our tour concludes after breakfast this morning, marking the completion of our adventure across Southern Italy, Sicily and Malta. We hope you leave with fantastic memories!
Day 22 - Arrive Australia
Day 22 - Arrive Australia
