17 Days
2 Countries

Italy, Vatican City

19 Cities

Rome, Vatican, Pisa, Santa Margherita Ligure, Cinque Terre, Portofino, Baveno, Lake Maggiore, Venice, Florence, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri, Sassi di Matera, Matera, Alberobello, Villa San Giovanni, Taormina, Palermo

24 Meals

1 Dinner, 16 Breakfasts, 7 Dinner with Wines

Active

Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size average 33
Tour brand Insight Vacations

Insight Vacations

If you typically fly business with extra legroom and appreciate 4 and 5-star hotels and one-of-a-kind experiences, Insight Vacations is a great fit for you. Get all the sights and insights, up close and personal on these premium guided tours and enjoy business class seating on luxury motorcoaches designed just for Insight Vacations, with double the legroom and personal space of a regular touring coach. Engage your curiosity with hand-selected experiences, immerse yourself in local culture with superior dining and stay in style at highly rated hotels. Every tour includes at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. These immersive impact experiences are not only a positive force for change in the destinations you visit, by advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but also offer you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community.

View all Insight Vacations Tours

Art, food, and scenery combine in this 17-day guided tour through Italy. Revel in Renaissance artwork housed in the Vatican Museums and gaze at Michelangelo’s famous ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. See Rome’s iconic Colosseum as a Local Expert shares its history. In coastal Cinque Terre, stop in a fishing village and cruise the rugged Ligurian coast, admiring the colorful homes perched on the cliffs. See statues of Neptune, Hercules and Cacus, and feast on a steak dinner and local wine in Florence. In Sorrento, meet a Local Expert for a cruise to Capri, where you ascend to Capri town for an unapparelled view of the Mediterranean Sea. In the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Alberobello, meet a restaurateur who will share his farm-to-table philosophy and serve you freshly made orecchiette pasta.

Reviews
15
Average group size
average 33
Tour brand
Insight Vacations
Globe

Flexible booking 30-day deposit refund guarantee + no change fees See flexible booking terms >

Best Value Why touring is the easiest way to travel Learn more >

Current Entry Requirements Check your destination View Entry Guide >

Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Welcome to the Eternal City of Rome

Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and baroque churches. Settle in before joining your Travel Director for a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. End the day getting to know your fellow travelers over Roman specialties during dinner at a local restaurant.

Alley of Trastevere in Rome, Italy
Arrival Transfer Depart Leonardo da Vinci airport (FCO) at  09:30, 12:30, 15:30
Welcome Meet your Travel Director at 17:30
Hotel St. Martin View Hotel Details
Included Meals Dinner

Hotel St. Martin

About the Hotel

Rome, Italy

Rome's modern Hotel St. Martin is conveniently located near the renowned Porta Pia, historic gardens and famous piazzas of the Italian capital. 

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Room Service
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Authentic Dining Welcome Dinner Rome, Italy
Rome Dinner

Savor dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavors.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Insight Experiences After Hours Visit to the Basilica Saint Praxedes, Rome, Italy
Basilica of Saint Praxedes Visit

Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's ...

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Experiences

Day 2

Vatican City and Rome with a Local

Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth experience bringing millennia of history to life. Journey from the Vatican City across the Tiber river to ancient Rome. See the incredible Circus Maximus. Admire the beautifully preserved Arch of Constantine and discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum on a guided visit. As you stroll with your Local Expert, imagine the gladiatorial battles and roaring spectators around the arena. Later, perhaps continue your exploration of Rome to see the Pantheon and the stunning piazzas and fountains of Rome.

 

 

St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City
Hotel St. Martin View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Hotel St. Martin

About the Hotel

Rome, Italy

Rome's modern Hotel St. Martin is conveniently located near the renowned Porta Pia, historic gardens and famous piazzas of the Italian capital. 

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Room Service
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights The Roman Forum, Rome, Italy
Rome City Tour

Discover ancient treasures of Rome with a passionate local. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, where Ancient Roman political life and law co...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences Piazza's and fountains walking tour in Rome, Italy
Piazzas and Fountains

Enjoy a guided passeggiata with a Local Expert through the cobblestoned streets of Rome. Visit the spectacular Trevi Fountain, toss a coin to secur...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Evening with dinner in Rome, Italy
Roman Dinner Party

Enjoy an evening of delicious Roman cuisine with drinks and a great Italian ambiance.

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 3

Pisa and Santa Margherita Ligure

Enjoy a delightful drive to Pisa through rolling countryside dotted with cypress trees, passing vineyards and olive groves. With a Local Expert, view the incredible Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles from which Galileo is said to have conducted experiments on velocity and gravity. See the splendid cathedral and baptistery, decorated with mosaics and designs in solid marble. Your journey continues to the pretty seaside resort of Santa Margherita Ligure.

The leaning tower of Pisa, Italy
Best Western Regina Elena View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Best Western Regina Elena

About the Hotel

Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy

A modern hotel boasting fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding coast.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • 24-hour Front Desk
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • Gym
  • Pool
  • Beach Access

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Duomo and the Leaning Tower, Pisa, Italy
Pisa city tour

Your Local Expert will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, and the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th-century cathedr...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 4

The Charms of the Cinque Terre

Head to the famous Cinque Terre, which translates to Five Lands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on a gorgeously wild yet hospitable part of the coastline. With a Local Expert, approach one of the fishing villages by boat (weather permitting). In Monterosso, spend some time exploring the medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach before continuing to the village of Portofino, famed for its colorful houses. Browse the boutiques and stay a while in the cafe bars on the piazzetta, watching the yachts moored in the harbor. Then cruise along the rugged Ligurian coast to your hotel in the resort of Santa Margherita.

Harbour, Cinque Terre, Italy
Best Western Regina Elena View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Best Western Regina Elena

About the Hotel

Santa Margherita Ligure, Italy

A modern hotel boasting fantastic panoramic views of the surrounding coast.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Room Service
  • 24-hour Front Desk
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • Gym
  • Pool
  • Beach Access

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Explore the villages of Cinque Tierre, Italy
Explore Cinque Terre's Villages

Led by your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site with dedicated time to explore one of the charming fishing villages.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Fishing Village Portofino, Italy
Portofino Orientation

Visit this elegant fishing village and admire the colored houses and yachts moored in the harbor. 

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 5

Lake Maggiore

Head north to beautiful Lake Maggiore in the Italian Lakes District and the town of Baveno, noted for its narrow cobbled streets and charming square. On arrival, settle into your hotel and take in the magical scenery. In the afternoon, why not join an Optional Experience cruise to Isola Bella to explore the palace and admire the stunning and immaculate Italian style gardens.

Isola Bella, Lake Maggiore, Italy
Hotel Simplon View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Hotel Simplon

About the Hotel

Baveno, Italy

Hotel Simplon is located mere minutes from the center of Baveno which is nestled along the banks of Lake Maggiore. Its pink façade showcases the famous local marble, while the interiors provide a classic, luxurious feel. The hotel features a permanent art exhibition of famous paintings displayed along one of its corridors.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Business Centre
  • Room Service
  • Laundry
  • Pool
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights La Passeggiata, Italy
Italian Lake District La Passeggiata

Experience the charming traditional social ritual of la passeggiata in the Italian Lake District. All across Italy, in cities, towns and villages p...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences Borromeo Palace Garden in Lake Maggiore, Italy
Isola Bella

The premier attraction of Lake Maggiore is the Borromean Islands. We'll take a private boat over to Isola Bella, the most famous island, renowned f...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Dinner on Isola dei Pescatori, Italy
Dinner on Isola dei Pescatori

This evening escape to the charming and tranquil island of Isola dei Pescatori. A short boat ride from the shores of Lake Maggiore, this fisherman’...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 6

On to Venice

Your travels continue past the Soave vineyards, the City of Padua and on to the canals of Venice. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner with your traveling companions.

Sightseeing in Venice, Italy​
Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena

About the Hotel

Venice, Italy

Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena is a boutique hotel converted from an old convent, offering guests authentic Venetian charm as it reflects the history and culture of the surrounding area.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Business Centre
  • Laundry
  • Room Service
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Boutique
Optional Experiences Piazza San Marco in Venice, Italy
Magical Venice

Venice can be Europe's most romantic city in the evening, offering dramatic landscapes with buildings that dazzle as the sun sets and the lights go...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 7

Venice and the Magic of La Serenissima

Cruise by private boat on a journey of discovery past churches and palaces reflecting the rich architectural history of Venice from the 13th to the 18th centuries. Marvel at the intricate façades and learn about the stories behind these historical buildings. Arrive close to St Mark's Square and stroll along the waterfront, passing the iconic Bridge of Sighs and the majestic Doge's Palace. It was from here that the infamous Casanova made his daring escape. Turn the corner into St Mark's Square and be captivated by the grandeur of the basilica. Afterwards, board a traditional gondola for a serenade along the romantic canals. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and witness the artistry of expert glassblowers as they create beautiful, handcrafted glass pieces, preserving centuries-old techniques and traditions.

Gondola arts centre​, Venice, Italy
Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena

About the Hotel

Venice, Italy

Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena is a boutique hotel converted from an old convent, offering guests authentic Venetian charm as it reflects the history and culture of the surrounding area.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Business Centre
  • Laundry
  • Room Service
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Boutique
Make Travel Matter Glassblowing demonstration​, Venice, Italy​
Venice Artisan Glassblowing Demonstration

Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditiona...

See More
Included in Trip

Make Travel Matter

Top Rated Highlights Gondola under The Bridge of Sighs in Venice, Italy
Venice Orientation

With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Gondola Ride Venice, Italy
Venice Gondola Ride

Delight in the magic of this charming city as you glide along the canals by gondola.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences See St. Marks Basilica on a walking tour in Venice, Italy
Hidden Venice

Experience Venice's big set pieces is to miss out on a hidden world full of surprises! Join a Local Expert for a fascinating walk through some of t...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Cruise and meal in Burano, Italy
Burano Excursion & Meal

Leave the hustle of St Mark's Square behind on a delightful private cruise around the islands of the Venetian lagoon. Alight at the island of Buran...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 8

A Scenic Journey to Florence

Bid farewell to Venice and begin your journey to Renaissance Florence. Explore Florence with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum and see Michelangelo’s David. After, continue on foot to admire the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, where Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been recreated in all their glory. Continue into the Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at statues such as Neptune, Hercules and Cacus along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. Alternatively, take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce to enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local caffè, where you will be in the perfect spot to admire the basilica, indulge in people-watching the elegant Florentines and pamper yourself shopping for luxury goods like gold and leather. Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with delicious local wine, a specialty not to be missed.

Duomo in Florence, Italy
Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli

About the Hotel

Florence, Italy

The Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli is a stylish hotel located just north of the city. Spacious rooms are designed with your convenience and comfort in mind.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Business Centre
  • Room Service
  • Gym
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Contemporary
Insight Choice Accademia Museum in Florence, Italy
Florence Accademia Museum Visit

Stand beside Michelangelo's monumental statue, 'David', in the Accademia Gallery, and admire the exquisite technique and absorbing history behind the world's most famous sculpture.

Included in Trip

Insight Choice

Insight Choice Ice cream in Florence, Italy
Enjoy a Local Treat

Take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce and immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita of Florence while you enjoy a ty...

See More
Included in Trip

Insight Choice

Top Rated Highlights Piazza Della Signoria Florence, Italy
Florence City Tour

Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the polit...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Bistecca Fiorentina Florence, Italy
Florence Restaurant Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with delicious local wine, a specialty not to be missed.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 9

Florence, Birthplace of the Renaissance

Start the day with a traditional Florentine leather-work demonstration, then there is plenty of time to shop with the rest of the day at your leisure. Perhaps join an optional experience to explore the hilltop town of San Gimignano?

Duomo Santa Maria Del Fiore in Florence, Italy
Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli

About the Hotel

Florence, Italy

The Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli is a stylish hotel located just north of the city. Spacious rooms are designed with your convenience and comfort in mind.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Business Centre
  • Room Service
  • Gym
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Contemporary
Optional Experiences Visit San Gimignano in Tuscany, Italy
San Gimignano Excursion

A wonderful excursion with our Local Expert to Tuscany's most famous hill-top town! Visit San Gimignano, considered a medieval Manhattan, due to it...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Tuscan dinner at Villa Machiavelli in Florence, Italy
Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli

Through the Chianti hills, you'll drive past vineyards to a delightful hamlet. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Tuscan Dinner & Cooking Demo, Florence, Italy
Tuscan Dinner & Cooking Demonstration

Florence and Tuscany are renowned for their rich gastronomic heritage. Tonight we'll travel into the hills near Florence to the northernmost part o...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 10

Ill-fated Pompeii and on to Sorrento

Journey south through the volcanic hills of Frascati to Pompeii, which was buried in A.D. 79 by Mount Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption. Walk with a Local Expert through the preserved cobbled streets for a glimpse into the daily life of civilization during the Roman Empire. Follow the clifftop road to the resort town of Sorrento, overlooking the Bay of Naples.

Temple of Apollo Pompeii, Italy
Hotel Isabella View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Hotel Isabella

About the Hotel

Sorrento, Italy

Hotel Isabella is a newly refurbished Hotel in a great location with modern furnishings. Guest can relax by the pool or head into the beautiful town of Sorrento which is 1 mile from the Hotel.

Hotel Amenities

  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Laundry
  • Room Service
  • Pool
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Ruins of Temple of Apollo in Pompeii, Italy
Pompeii City Tour

Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the first century.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences Sorrento Dinner & Local Restaurant, Sorrento, Italy
Sorrento Evening

A chance to enjoy a delicious dinner of local specialties. We arrive at one of the area's unique local restaurants for an incredible dining experie...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 11

Capri, the Isle of Dreams

Meet your Local Expert and cross the Bay of Naples to reach the beautiful Isle of Capri, a rock rising sheer from the Mediterranean! For 2,000 years, Capri has beckoned visitors from Tiberius Caesar to Gracie Fields. Arriving at the Marina Grande by boat, ascend to Capri town. Explore the narrow alleyways and descend to the port by funicular railway for the return to Sorrento. Later, perhaps explore the Amalfi Coast?

Isle of Capri, Italy
Hotel Isabella View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast

Hotel Isabella

About the Hotel

Sorrento, Italy

Hotel Isabella is a newly refurbished Hotel in a great location with modern furnishings. Guest can relax by the pool or head into the beautiful town of Sorrento which is 1 mile from the Hotel.

Hotel Amenities

  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Laundry
  • Room Service
  • Pool
  • Foreign Currency Exchange
  • 24-hour Front Desk

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Sorrento Capri Day Trip Jetfoil
Cruise by Jetfoil to the Isle of Capri

Cruise by jetfoil to this famous isle through beautiful blue Mediterranean waters.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Statue of Tiberius Isle of Capri, Italy
Isle of Capri City Tour

Explore Capri town with your Local Expert and see the whitewashed houses, winding alleyways, small cafes, fashionable boutiques and artisans studios.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences Capri cruise and tour from Sorrento, Italy
Island Tour of Capri

Experience a private, guided cruise along the beautiful southern coast to see spectacular cliffs, the famous Faraglioni Rocks and White Grotto sea ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences Visit Positano on the Amalfi Coast, Italy
Amalfi Coast Drive & Positano Visit

Drive along the clear blue waters and picturesque resorts of the Amalfi Coast, arguably the most glamorous and scenic stretch of coast in Europe. M...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 12

Sassi di Matera and Alberobello

After breakfast, discover two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, visit Matera for an in-depth guided exploration of the extraordinary Sassi, ancient troglodyte dwellings and churches dug out of the rock. These are the most extensive example of their kind in the Mediterranean and were inhabited by about 20,000 people up until the 1950s. Matera was also used as the setting for the film 'The Passion of the Christ'. Continue to Alberobello, the second UNESCO World Heritage Site, and your home for the next two nights.

Townscape, Matera, Italy
Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri

About the Hotel

Alberobello, Italy

The Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Laundry
  • Room Service
  • Pool
  • Gym
  • Spa

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights City of Stones Cave Matera, Italy
Matera City Tour

With your Local Expert explore this town that Mel Gibson chose as the setting for his film 'The Passion of the Christ.'

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Ice-cream in Alberobello, Italy
See the Trulli of Alberobello

Led by your Local Expert, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Trulli of Alberobello. Circular structures with conical roofs that...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 13

The Trulli of Alberobello

Admire another of Italy's record number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a Local Expert. The trulli of Alberobello are circular structures with conical roofs that are domed within. They are built from local limestone and stacked without using mortar.
In the evening, delight at the freshly prepared Farm to Table dinner. Enjoy a typical meal and learn about life in the region through the local food.

Sunset over Alberobello, Italy
Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri

About the Hotel

Alberobello, Italy

The Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Concierge
  • Laundry
  • Room Service
  • Pool
  • Gym
  • Spa

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Walking orientation tour, Alberobello, Italy​
Trulli of Alberobello Visit

Led by a Local Expert, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Trulli of Alberobello. Circular structures with conical roofs that ar...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Dinner being served, Alberobello, Italy​
Farm-to-Table Dinner in Alberobello

Learn about local life while savoring a freshly prepared Farm-to-Table meal featuring recipes and flavors typical of the region.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Optional Experiences
Ostuni

In the company of our Local Expert experience the town of Ostuni which is reminiscent of a North African Arab Medina. Admire the stark white-washed...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 14

Sicily and the Taormina Riviera

The local roads will take you south, following the shores of the Gulf of Taranto to the mountainous Calabria region. Travel along the Purple Coast to the very 'toe' of Italy and board your ferry bound for Sicily. According to ancient legend, it was here at the Straits of Messina where the twin whirlpools of Scylla and Charybdis carried unwary seafarers away to their doom! After disembarking, continue to the Taormina Riviera. 

Sightseeing in Taormina, Sicily, Italy
Accommodation Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Top Rated Highlights Ferry Messina Sicily, Italy
Ferry to Sicily

Cross the Straights of Messina to Sicily by ferry.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Day 15

Taormina and the Dawn Coast of Europe

Spend the day at leisure to enjoy at your own pace. Perhaps join an optional experience to Mt. Etna?

Taormina, Sicily
Accommodation Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Included Meals Breakfast
Top Rated Highlights Greek Theatre of Taormina, Sicily
Taormina Greek Ampitheatre Visit

Visit the ancient Greek Amphitheater with your Local Expert. Set on a cliff, open to the sky, take your seats and enjoy the view through the crumbl...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Top Rated Highlights Church of San Giuseppe Piazza IX Aprile Taormina, Italy
Taormina Visit

Visit Taormina with a Local Expert and enjoy free time to stroll along Corso Umberto to Piazza IX Aprile.

Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Optional Experiences Enjoy a drive & tour of Mt Etna in Italy
Mt Etna

Where myth and legend merge to reality! With a Local Expert we'll drive up Mt. Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. Ascend through the fertile fo...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Optional Experiences
Dinner in the Clouds

With one of the most incredible rides of your lives, you will arrive high above the sea, a world apart from the areas that tourists tread. You'll a...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Optional Experiences

Day 16

Palermo, Capital of Sicily

Head to the Sicilian capital of Palermo. On arrival, your Local Expert will show you the highlights of the capital. Palermo Cathedral has been altered over the years and a venture inside will help you to appreciate the composite architectural styles. Next, head to the amazing Palatine Chapel in the Palace of the Normans. With the outside completely covered in glittering ancient mosaics, it provides an insight to what's within. Join your traveling companions and Travel Director at a local restaurant for an unforgettable dinner of delicious local cuisine and wine.

Skyline View of Palermo in Sicily
Astoria Palace View Hotel Details
Included Meals Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Astoria Palace

About the Hotel

Palermo, Italy

Astoria Palace Hotel is an impressive building conveniently situated near the harbor of Palermo.

Hotel Amenities

  • Restaurant
  • Bar
  • Business Centre
  • Concierge
  • Room Service

Style

  • Traditional
Top Rated Highlights Guests Sightseeing, Palermo, Italy
Palermo City Tour

Discover the Sicilian capital with your Local Expert. See Pretoria Square and the 16th century fountain. View the composite architectural styles of...

See More
Included in Trip

Top Rated Highlights

Authentic Dining Toast to your travels at your Celebration Dinner
Palermo Celebration Dinner

Experience local customs as you delve into tantalising flavors and rustic dishes served with local wine.

Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

Day 17

Depart Palermo

Your journey draws to an end. Departure transfers arrive at Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport.

Cathedral Palermo, Italy
Departure Transfer Arrive at the airport at  06:00, 08:00
Included Meals Breakfast

Select your date

Tour Start {{ getFormattedDate(departure.departureDate) }}
Tour End {{ getFormattedDate(departure.returnDate) }}
Definite Departure
Twin Room
{{departure.leadPrice}} per person
{{departure.fullPrice}} Save {{departure.highestDiscountAmount}}
{{departure.dealsLabel}} {{departure.epdDueDate}} {{departure.advertisementMessage}}
{{departure.dealsLabel}} {{departure.epdDueDate}} {{departure.advertisementMessage}}

Special Departure

Special Departure

Included Highlights

Top rated highlights

Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.

Insight Experiences
Basilica of Saint Praxedes Visit

Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's ...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Rome City Tour

Discover ancient treasures of Rome with a passionate local. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, where Ancient Roman political life and law co...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Pisa city tour

Your Local Expert will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, and the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th-century cathedr...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Explore Cinque Terre's Villages

Led by your Local Expert, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site with dedicated time to explore one of the charming fishing villages.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Portofino Orientation

Visit this elegant fishing village and admire the colored houses and yachts moored in the harbor. 

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Italian Lake District La Passeggiata

Experience the charming traditional social ritual of la passeggiata in the Italian Lake District. All across Italy, in cities, towns and villages p...

See More
Included in Trip
Make Travel Matter
Venice Artisan Glassblowing Demonstration

Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditiona...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Venice Orientation

With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Venice Gondola Ride

Delight in the magic of this charming city as you glide along the canals by gondola.

Included in Trip
Insight Choice
Florence Accademia Museum Visit

Stand beside Michelangelo's monumental statue, 'David', in the Accademia Gallery, and admire the exquisite technique and absorbing history behind the world's most famous sculpture.

Included in Trip
Insight Choice
Enjoy a Local Treat

Take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce and immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita of Florence while you enjoy a ty...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Florence City Tour

Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the polit...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Pompeii City Tour

Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the first century.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Cruise by Jetfoil to the Isle of Capri

Cruise by jetfoil to this famous isle through beautiful blue Mediterranean waters.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Isle of Capri City Tour

Explore Capri town with your Local Expert and see the whitewashed houses, winding alleyways, small cafes, fashionable boutiques and artisans studios.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Matera City Tour

With your Local Expert explore this town that Mel Gibson chose as the setting for his film 'The Passion of the Christ.'

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
See the Trulli of Alberobello

Led by your Local Expert, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Trulli of Alberobello. Circular structures with conical roofs that...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Trulli of Alberobello Visit

Led by a Local Expert, explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing the Trulli of Alberobello. Circular structures with conical roofs that ar...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Ferry to Sicily

Cross the Straights of Messina to Sicily by ferry.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Taormina Greek Ampitheatre Visit

Visit the ancient Greek Amphitheater with your Local Expert. Set on a cliff, open to the sky, take your seats and enjoy the view through the crumbl...

See More
Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Taormina Visit

Visit Taormina with a Local Expert and enjoy free time to stroll along Corso Umberto to Piazza IX Aprile.

Included in Trip
Top Rated Highlights
Palermo City Tour

Discover the Sicilian capital with your Local Expert. See Pretoria Square and the 16th century fountain. View the composite architectural styles of...

See More
Included in Trip

About this trip

Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Authentic Dining

1 Dinner, 16 Breakfasts, 7 Dinner with Wines

Rome Dinner

Savor dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavors.

Florence Restaurant Dinner

Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with delicious local wine, a specialty not to be missed.

Farm-to-Table Dinner in Alberobello

Learn about local life while savoring a freshly prepared Farm-to-Table meal featuring recipes and flavors typical of the region.

Palermo Celebration Dinner

Experience local customs as you delve into tantalising flavors and rustic dishes served with local wine.

Hand-Picked Hotels

Stay at highly rated hotels in desirable locations offering superb service, superior rooms with comfy beds to rest in.

Best Western Regina Elena
Hotel Simplon
Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena
Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli
Hotel Isabella
Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri

Optional Experiences

Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.

Optional Experience
Piazzas and Fountains

Enjoy a guided passeggiata with a Local Expert through the cobblestoned streets of Rome. Visit the spectacular Trevi Fountain, toss a coin to secur...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Roman Dinner Party

Enjoy an evening of delicious Roman cuisine with drinks and a great Italian ambiance.

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Isola Bella

The premier attraction of Lake Maggiore is the Borromean Islands. We'll take a private boat over to Isola Bella, the most famous island, renowned f...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Dinner on Isola dei Pescatori

This evening escape to the charming and tranquil island of Isola dei Pescatori. A short boat ride from the shores of Lake Maggiore, this fisherman’...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Magical Venice

Venice can be Europe's most romantic city in the evening, offering dramatic landscapes with buildings that dazzle as the sun sets and the lights go...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Hidden Venice

Experience Venice's big set pieces is to miss out on a hidden world full of surprises! Join a Local Expert for a fascinating walk through some of t...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Burano Excursion & Meal

Leave the hustle of St Mark's Square behind on a delightful private cruise around the islands of the Venetian lagoon. Alight at the island of Buran...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
San Gimignano Excursion

A wonderful excursion with our Local Expert to Tuscany's most famous hill-top town! Visit San Gimignano, considered a medieval Manhattan, due to it...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli

Through the Chianti hills, you'll drive past vineyards to a delightful hamlet. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Tuscan Dinner & Cooking Demonstration

Florence and Tuscany are renowned for their rich gastronomic heritage. Tonight we'll travel into the hills near Florence to the northernmost part o...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Sorrento Evening

A chance to enjoy a delicious dinner of local specialties. We arrive at one of the area's unique local restaurants for an incredible dining experie...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Island Tour of Capri

Experience a private, guided cruise along the beautiful southern coast to see spectacular cliffs, the famous Faraglioni Rocks and White Grotto sea ...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Amalfi Coast Drive & Positano Visit

Drive along the clear blue waters and picturesque resorts of the Amalfi Coast, arguably the most glamorous and scenic stretch of coast in Europe. M...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Ostuni

In the company of our Local Expert experience the town of Ostuni which is reminiscent of a North African Arab Medina. Admire the stark white-washed...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Mt Etna

Where myth and legend merge to reality! With a Local Expert we'll drive up Mt. Etna, Europe's largest active volcano. Ascend through the fertile fo...

See More
Additional Cost Applies
Optional Experience
Dinner in the Clouds

With one of the most incredible rides of your lives, you will arrive high above the sea, a world apart from the areas that tourists tread. You'll a...

See More
Additional Cost Applies

Compare similar tours

Best of Italy and Sicily
15 Days from $4,856
Country Roads of Southern Italy and Sicily
14 Days from $4,455
Southern Italy and Sicily
10 Days from $3,236

Italy & Sicily

  • Official Languages across Italy & Sicily Italian is the official language of Italy and Sicily.
  • Currency used in Italy and Sicily: The Euro (€) is used in Italy and Sicily.
  • Capital Cities: Rome (Italy) and Palermo (Sicily)
  • Time Zone(s) in Italy and Sicily Central European Time Zone (CET), Central European Summer Time (CEST)

Italy and Sicily passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.

  • Passport: Your passport should have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip
  • Visa Requirement: A visa is not required to enter Italy or Sicily.
  • Entry Requirements: You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to getours.com/travel-requirements-restrictions.

Italy experiences a diverse range of climates due to its geographical location. Generally, the country has a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Coastal regions enjoy mild temperatures throughout the year, while inland areas can experience more significant temperature variations. Northern Italy tends to be cooler than the south, and the mountainous regions, such as the Alps and the Dolomites, have colder winters and offer opportunities for winter sports. It's always a good idea to check the weather conditions for the region you plan to visit, as they can vary.

Sicily has a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summers in Sicily are typically very warm, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F) and sometimes reaching into the 40s (over 100°F). Winters are mild and relatively wet, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10 °C (50°F). Spring and autumn are pleasant seasons with comfortable temperatures and less rainfall.

On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits

Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb

Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”

  • *Please note: A "carry-on bag" on a tour coach is not the same as a "carry-on" for a flight. Because our coaches have large windows to enjoy the view, there is minimal space to store large items securely overhead or under the seats. A "carry-on bag" may be a soft-sided daypack, purse, backpack, tote bag, or the like. Because we value our guests' safety, small rolling suitcases or bags with telescopic handles are not permitted. In order to guarantee a smooth trip, guests are not permitted to store an additional "carry-on" bag beneath the coach with the luggage. 

So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances. 

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.

Packing Tips for Your Tour

Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:

Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.

Clothing:

  • Comfortable walking shoes: Cobblestone streets and uneven terrain require comfortable footwear.
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing: Pack clothes suitable for the season. Bring a mix of short-sleeved tops, lightweight pants or skirts, and a few long-sleeved options for cooler evenings for the summer months, and long-sleeved and heavier layers for early Spring, Fall, and Winter.
  • Layers: It's advisable to bring a light jacket or sweater and a scarf for layering, especially in Spring or Fall.
  • Nice evening wear: You may wish to wear a dressier outfit if you plan on dining in an elegant restaurant, for example. Smart-casual clothes are usually acceptable for all included daytime and evening activities throughout your tour.
  • Rain Gear: Depending on the season and the countries you're visiting, it's a good idea to pack a compact rain jacket or umbrella.

Sun Protection:

  • Hat, sunglasses, UV-protective clothing.
  • Sunscreen with high SPF. If you're visiting any coastal areas, bring reef-safe sunscreen formulated without harmful chemicals known to be damaging to coral reefs and marine life. Traditional sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which have been found to contribute to coral bleaching and negatively impact marine ecosystems. Look for sunscreens with certifications such as "Reef Safe," "Coral Safe," or "Ocean-Friendly" to ensure they are environmentally friendly.

Medications and First Aid:

  • Any prescription medications you need. (See more below under Health & Wellness)
  • Basic first aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, etc.

Toiletries:

  • Travel-sized toiletries, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and toothpaste.
  • Travel towel (quick-drying and compact).
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • A washcloth and carry bag (often not available in hotels abroad).

Electronics:

  • A camera: You’re traveling to see extraordinary scenery and sites. So that you don't miss a single moment, bring a trustworthy camera. Check out our travel photography tips for capturing the best photos of your trips. If you feel comfortable, you can also try the camera on your phone. However, if you want to zoom in or capture moving objects, a camera might be your best bet.
  • Mobile phone.
  • Chargers for each electronic you bring.
  • Travel adapter and/or voltage converter
  • Portable power bank for charging devices on the go.
  • Small travel hair dryer (make sure you have the correct converter and adapter).

Miscellaneous:

  • A travel-friendly daypack or bag to carry your essentials during excursions.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Reusable water bottle. At GET, we’re all about caring for our planet, and with that in mind, we always recommend that you pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Bringing your own reusable water bottle or asking for tap water at restaurants means you can make a difference by reducing your vacation plastic waste.
  • A small travel alarm.
  • A travel iron if you like your clothes to be pressed.
  • A travel pillow.

Optional:

  • Scarf or shawl for visiting religious sites or to cover up in conservative areas.
  • Light sleepwear.
  • A new, blank journal to document your trip. Don't know your travel journal style? Find out here!
  • Ziplock bags (storing snacks, toiletries, and keeping things organized).

Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.

Electricity

American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.

As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.

If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).

It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.

To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.

We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.

Hair Dryers in Your Hotel

Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.

However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.

Traveling by coach

Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.

Airport transfers

Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold, and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.

To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.

The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.

Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.

It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.

Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.

It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.

When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.

Local Specialists

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.

Your Coach Driver and Travel Director

The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.

For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.

Hotel services

It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.

Your GET Wishlist

{{ tour.title }}
{{ tour.duration }} Days from {{ tour.displayPrice }}

Find Your Perfect Destination

Italy
47 tours from $1,125
Britain & Ireland
46 tours from $1,485
Spain & Portugal
30 tours from $1,395
France
23 tours from $2,475
Greece
12 tours from $2,093
United States
54 tours from $1,575
Australia
9 tours from $3,948
Africa
10 tours from $3,112
Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Samuel Burstein
Review date: Monday, October 16, 2023
Service
Always easy to book with them, responsive to any questions. Details of tours are accurate. Accommodates extra days if needed.
Vacation
All encompassing tour of Italy. In addition to the common tourist destinations, the tour included less common sites. Mt. Etna and Sicily were particularly interesting. Tour director Margaret was extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of Italy, and was attentive to each traveler’s needs. .
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, May 28, 2023
Service
Ease of booking
Vacation
Excellent Tour Guide, very knowledgeable
Kathy Tanis
Review date: Wednesday, May 24, 2023
Service
Some conflicting answers when compared with other participants. No information was available regarding extra excursions.
Vacation
Trip was great. Tour guide was excellent. Guide was knowledable, funny and made the trip outstanding. Took time to assist us in resolving some personal issues that arose during the trip. Bus driver had amazing driving skills.
Grace Abreo
Review date: Tuesday, October 18, 2022
Service
Very professional and great answering our questions. They informed us when we needed to do any particular action that was needed for the trip
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so happy to hear you enjoyed your Grand Italy and Sicily tour. Hopefully, you returned home with memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you for choosing us to help you plan and book your vacation. We appreciate your business, review and feedback. Happy Travels!
Wednesday, November 2, 2022
Vacation
It was everything we hoped for and more. Ernesta our guide was terrific, knowledgeable and great personality. Always looking out and checking on her group of travelers
Patricia Mott
Review date: Monday, May 23, 2022
Service
My trip was booked in the fall of 2019. I felt there was not very good communication through Covid. We were having to make calls to check on things instead of your company reaching out to us to keep us informed. Also, I had many friends who had booked trips prior to Covid and when Covid happened they were able to rebook or get their money back. Because you held on to our money for 2 1/2 years, I will think twice about booking with you in the future.
Vacation
It was a good trip overall. I feel I saw most all of Italy, which was great. I felt optional experiences were very expensive and next time will probably arrange my own at a lower price. The food was ok, but I feel the meals should always have a choice of entree. Most of the special tour guides were good. Our bus driver and tour director did a good job with us. We had several people over 80 including one woman who used a walker and another who had trouble walking. Both the bus driver and tour director were great with them.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Sunday, October 13, 2019
Service
Lauren Vejar was excellent! Every detail was explained and she was available to answe any questions. The trip was smooth traveling from beginning to end.
Vacation
Sara and Claudio were the best guides ever! They took care of every detail so we could enjoy the beauty of Italy . We learned and saw so much of each area. The food was soo good!
Helen Valentinelli
Review date: Sunday, June 25, 2017
Service
The guides and bus driver were all well adapted to the job and made my learning experience about the people and places excellent.
Vacation
This trip was well planned and all the information about people and places was exceptional.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Thank you for your kind words and for uploading the beautiful photo! We hope to be able to help you plan another trip very soon.
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
Laura Mckenna
Review date: Sunday, June 18, 2017
Service
Booking the tour was easy. The seats on the plane to Italy were poorly located and I paid $250 to upgrade. The flight schedule for our return trip was poor and I think we could have had a more direct flight. We took 2 flights to Italy and 3 flights home which didn't seem reasonable as it made for a 30 hour day at the end of a great vacation. The tour was great but the add on options cost $1500. I would have preferred to know about this expense up front or have a higher initial price with all options included. We really enjoyed our tour Director Vinenzo Tassone and our driver Mario was such a patient and skilled driver. This was a great tour to see so much of the Italian country side. We feel like we really saw much of what Italy has to offer.
Response from Grand European Travel:
Flying to the US from Palermo always requires 3 flights.  Unfortunately, there is no way to avoid it.  We do book the most direct flights available at the time you make your reservation, but can always take your preferences into consideration if you have a favorite airline or departure city.  We appreciate your feedback.
Tuesday, June 20, 2017
Vacation
We saw so much! The tours were well orchestrated!We feel like we really got to experience a lot of Italy.
Richard Dawes Jr
Review date: Sunday, May 14, 2017
Service
We had a wonderful tour director named Francis Touchek. We arrived late on our first day and he paid for our cab. He brought in everyone's luggage and made sure that we all felt comfortable whenever we checked into a new hotel .Francis was very professional and extremely helpful. He was there to smooth the way and to make our tour as enjoyable as possible. He was very knowledgeable concerning the history of Italy. We both feel that we know so much more than we before the tour, about this beautiful country Our coach driver was a wonderful driver. We were amazed how well Benito could maneuver the coach around tight curves. He kept the coach clean and assisted us when we misplaced items. He and Francis were a great team. I was a little disappointed in some of the hotels that we stayed in. Many were far away from tourist attractions. The food on many of the optional experiences was not worth the price we paid. We did feel that the optional tours were worth the extra expense. We felt that it was a great tour and we enjoyed meeting so many nice people from other countries. We would recommend this tour to everyone. I would tell them to do a lot of walking before the tour because it was strenuous at times. One day we walked over ten miles. We climbed a lot of hills and walked down slippery steps! Get in shape before you sign up for this.
Response from Grand European Travel:
We're sorry to hear that you were delayed in arriving into Rome, but glad to see that your Travel Director had the issue well in hand.    We appreciate your honesty about some of the hotel locations, quality and the food quality.  We will be sure to pass this information on to our Quality Control Team for immediate review.
Wednesday, May 17, 2017
Vacation
Some hotel rooms were very small. Several hotels were very far from the cities we were touring. Some optional dinners were very average and not worth what we paid for them. On the night of the Dine Around in Capri we all agreed that all three restaurants were below average choices.
Trusted Customer
Review date: Friday, October 28, 2016
Service
First time user and very likely not the last. Maybe spoiled by having Brad McEwen. The only criticism is the flight arrangements thru you could have been better scheduled. We had to wait in airport nearly 3 hours to get transferred on arrival and longer on the departure.
Vacation
Very comprehensive and like the idea that the tour director make own arrangements for optional dinners, since they were much better than the included dinners at the hotels.
See More Reviews
Dates & Prices Back to Top