Italian Glory
13 Day Italy Tour of the Italian Lakes, Venice, Rome | Operated by Trafalgar
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13 Days
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2 Countries
Italy, Vatican City -
11 Cities
Italian Lakes, Lake Maggiore, Milan, Como, Verona, Venice, Florence, Amalfi Coast, Pompeii, Rome, Vatican -
17 Meals
5 Dinners, 12 Breakfasts -
Pace: Active
Faster paces with mix of 1–2-night stays in each location. Typically features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills and uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones.
Trip Itinerary
Stylish Baveno is our launchpad to the Italian Lakes where we spend the first night of our leisurely jaunt through Italy. After arriving in Lake Maggiore, unwind and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Admire the mesmerizing reflection of the surrounding peaks in the deep blue waters which make this one of Italy's most soul-stirring settings. Enjoy a leisurely stroll past exquisite lakeside villas and gardens before meeting your travel companions and Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner.
The runways of Milan take center stage today as we explore the fashion capital of Italy. Join a Local Specialist to see both the iconic and unexpected highlights of this hard-working city. Behold the exquisite Gothic architecture of the Duomo, decorated with over 3400 sculptures, the neoclassical La Scala Opera House and ornate Galleria with its imposing iron and glass-domed roof – of course, all in the company of the trendsetting Milanese. Head to the town of Como and stroll along the lakeside or wander the pretty streets and shop for silk scarves or soak up the atmosphere in a caffè.
The tragic story of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers is revealed during our visit to romantic Verona, where we will view the ancient Roman Arena, still in use today. Indulge in a leisurely cappuccino stop in the city's beautiful Piazza Bra, admiring the imposing bronze statue of King Victor Emanuel II. Or shop up a storm on trendy Via Mazzini before continuing to Venice, where we will spend the next two nights.
Glide through the canals of Venice by private launch visiting some of the jewels in the crown of the 'Queen of the Adriatic'. On your unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll witness the centuries-old Venetian tradition of glassblowing. Watch as the master craftsmen shape the molten glass into the exquisite works of art for which Venice is justifiably famous, then it's on to St. Mark's Square to admire the profound beauty of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. See the Bridge of Sighs, so named because of the sound prisoners would make when taking one last longing look at their beloved city before being imprisoned. Later, you’ll have the rest of the day to indulge your inner explorer and discover the many treasures of Venice your way, or consider an Optional Experience to the island of Burano, renowned for its colorful fishermen houses.
From Venice, we cross the Apennine Mountains to Florence, the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'. Consider joining your Travel Director for a traditional Florentine dinner in the heart of the Chianti Hills.
This morning we join a Local Specialist on a leisurely walking tour to delve into the culture and history of Florence. We'll visit the Piazza del Duomo to view the multi-colored marble Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza della Signoria with its exquisite art and palazzi, and the Ponte Vecchio bridge that has straddled the Arno River for almost 700 years. Admire spectacular views of the city from Piazzale Michelangelo. Later, learn about the quality and workmanship of two of this city's historic industries at demonstrations of Florentine leathercraft and 18-carat gold. This afternoon, consider an Optional Experience to visit hilltop San Gimignano. Join your fellow travelers this evening to Connect With Locals over a Be My Guest dinner set against the backdrop of Tuscan vineyards and olive groves.
Journey south through the Arno Valley, passing the Bay of Naples bound for Maiori on the Amalfi Coast, where we will spend the next three nights. This evening we dine at our hotel.
This morning travel to Amalfi, perched perfectly on this dramatic stretch of coastline. See the 10th century Sant'Andrea cathedral in the heart of the town, with its beautifully striped Byzantine façade, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Continue your exploration of the Amalfi Coast by joining an Optional Experience to beautiful Positano.
Relax at your hotel on the Amalfi Coast or wander past fragrant lemon terraces. You have a full free day to indulge in your heart’s desires – consider a fresh seafood lunch, from sea to table, or take a dip in the welcoming, warm Mediterranean waters.
Embark on a walking tour with a Local Specialist and discover the lost city of Pompeii, which was buried under volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted. Continue to the 'Eternal City' of Rome later, enjoying views of the 6th century Benedictine Abbey in Cassino en route. Spend the evening exploring the extraordinary heritage of Rome, which spans millennia, or consider an Optional Experience to see the exquisite art and architecture of this one-time capital of the world.
Spend the morning in the Vatican City with a Local Specialist, visiting the imposing St. Peter's Basilica to view Michelangelo's sorrowful Pietà. Consider an Optional Experience to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel with its exquisite frescoed ceilings crafted by Michelangelo. Then, cross the Tiber into Ancient Rome to see the Circus Maximus, once the site of exhilarating chariot races that entertained thousands. This afternoon we have time to explore the city on our own terms. Perhaps toss a coin in the Trevi Fountain to secure your return to Rome, soak up the coffee aromas on Piazza Navona or wander through the ruins of Palatine Hill.
Indulge in a full free day to explore the passionate embrace of the city and its zesty locals. Ease into la dolce vita, or consider an Optional Experience to Tivoli, where you can visit Villa d'Este with its magnificent Renaissance gardens and exquisite fountains. This evening, we enjoy a Farewell Dinner with newfound friends and your Travel Director before bidding arrivederci to Rome.
Our unforgettable encounter with Italy comes to an end today.
Price Includes
What's Included- - An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- - Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- - All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- - All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- - Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- - Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- - Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- - Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- - Optional Experiences and free time
- - On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.
- - 5 Dinners (D)
- - 12 Breakfasts (B)
- Explore Italy's renowned fashion capital with your Local Specialist. See the magnificent facade of Milan Cathedral, La Scala Theater and the glass-vaulted shopping arcade of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, lined with luxury boutiques.
- During an exploration of Verona, see Juliet's balcony in the courtyard of a Renaissance villa.
- Join a Local Specialist to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square.
- See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods, and witness a gold and leatherwork demonstration.
- Drive along the Amalfi Coast to visit this seaside town. See the pastel rainbow of colorful houses precariously stacked upon one another as if cascading from the hilltop to the water.
- Walk with a Local Specialist through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the 1st century.
- See the abbey on Monte Cassino, founded by Saint Benedict in 529.
- Visit Vatican City and tour St. Peter's Basilica with a Local Specialist. Witness the early genius of Michelangelo as you take in the Pietà.
- Discover ancient treasures of Rome with a Local Specialist. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, and stand beside the Colosseum, which bears witness to the limitless courage of the gladiators.
- Experience Rome through the eyes of a local, as a passionate Roman guides you past the city's most iconic sites.
- Learn about the history and ancient skill of Venetian glassblowing, playing your role in ensuring the survival of this traditional craft through your visit.
- Eight generations of history with plenty of stories to tell. Enjoy a local Tuscan Be My Guest dinner with Count Miari Fulcis on his 15th-century organic olive oil estate in the Tuscan hills, used as a location for many famous films like 'Room with a View' and 'Tea with Mussolini'.
Optional Experiences
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Treasures of Milan (Available on Day 2)A fantastic opportunity to take in some of the highlights of elegant Milan. Amongst other sights, we'll visit La Scala, the world's most famous opera house, where Giuseppe Verdi, Maria Callas and others have left their mark. Our wonderful Local Specialist will bring the city’s eventful past to life.
Adult Price: €49 Discover Lake Como (Available on Day 2)Enjoy views of elegant villas and gardens as you cruise with your Local Specialist along Lake Como, one of the most beautiful spots in the Italian Lake District.
Adult Price: €49 Gondolas & the Grand Canal (Available on Day 3)Join us for a breathtaking cruise by private water taxi along Venice's Grand Canal. You'll admire the magnificent palazzi, catching a glimpse of the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. Later on, you'll glide gracefully on a gondola along Venice's dreamy, narrow waterways.
Adult Price: €85 Venice's Secrets (Available on Day 4)Explore the hidden maze of streets which make up this unique city as your Local Specialist gives you a fascinating insight into Venice's past and present. You’ll discover tucked away squares and back streets local Venetians use to side-step the tourist throng and give you a sense of authentic life on the island of Venice.
Adult Price: €42 Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks (Available on Day 4)This afternoon, discover the Venetian Lagoon by private boat. You'll enjoy a delicious meal, with a selection of drinks, on the fisherman's island of Burano, famous for its multi-colored houses - a photographer's paradise.
Adult Price: €82 Michelangelo's 'David' & Accademia (Available on Day 5)Enjoy an insight into the world of Michelangelo and his masterpiece, David. We'll visit the Academy of Fine Arts and its Michelangelo collection, where you'll learn all about the life and works of this immortal Renaissance genius through the expert commentary of our Local Specialist.
Adult Price: €54 Discover Palazzo Vecchio (Available on Day 5)Marvel at the legacy of the Medici as you visit Palazzo Vecchio, the symbol of Florence's political power for over seven centuries. With our Local Specialist we’ll visit the wonderful "Hall of the Five Hundred", dedicated to the Medici popes. We’ll also visit rooms decorated with masterpieces by famous artists of the Renaissance like Michelangelo and Donatello.
Adult Price: €46 Dinner in the Tuscan Hills (Available on Day 5)This evening we'll take a scenic drive to experience a fun and relaxed evening at a friendly, typical restaurant in the countryside. The chef will delight our senses with regional dishes, made with freshly-bought ingredients from the local farmers' markets. Your delicious meal will be accompanied by excellent wines from the vineyards for which this area is so well known. In short, a Tuscan dream come true in an authentic setting.
Adult Price: €74 Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli (Available on Day 5)Through the Chianti hills, we'll drive past vineyards to a delightful hamlet. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the great political theorist wrote his immortal work, ‘The Prince'. After a welcome drink and a visit of the villa and its wine-cellars, we'll enjoy the best of Tuscan cuisine accompanied by great music and drinks, including of course, Chianti from the Villa's own vines.
Adult Price: €74 Visit To San Gimignano (Available on Day 6)Join us for a panoramic drive to the nearby hilltop town of San Gimignano. Magnificently preserved from the Middle Ages, this little town, known as the 'Medieval Manhattan', is one of the most beautiful in Italy - a true gem. You'll also be treated to a delicious local gelato.
Adult Price: €40 Amalfi Coast and Positano (Available on Day 8)Join us as we take in delightful villages and spectacular scenery along the incredible Amalfi Coast. You’ll visit the celebrated town of Positano, which is also a Unesco World Heritage site. There will be time to shop for local goods or enjoy a drink in a cafe overlooking the beach.
Adult Price: €68 Explore Ravello (Available on Day 8)Join us on a trip to the balcony of the Amalfi coast. Ravello is perched high above the terraced groves with breathtaking views. Your Local Specialist will show you the gardens of the Villa Rufolo, which inspired Wagner, and you’ll have free time to visit the 11th century cathedral.
Adult Price: €46 Dinner on the Amalfi Coast (Available on Day 9)Come with us for a short drive to a restaurant we know and love on the Amalfi Coast. You'll get to try some favorite local dishes and drinks, all served alongside Neapolitan hospitality and beautiful views.
Adult Price: €77 Piazzas and Fountains (Available on Day 10)Discover the most charming areas in the city with a Local Specialist. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and beautiful squares of Rome's historic center, leading to highlights such as the Trevi Fountain, as well as hidden corners of the Eternal City.
Adult Price: €46 Inside the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel (Available on Day 11)Join us for an extension to your included sightseeing tour, which gives you a chance to see the artistic masterpieces collected and commissioned by the Popes. With our Local Specialist, we'll visit the Tapestry Gallery, Gallery of Maps and the Sistine Chapel. Michelangelo spent four years preparing the vault and altar wall, and we'll give you plenty of time to admire just how much painstaking work went into his creations.
Adult Price: €81 Roman Evening with Dinner (Available on Day 11)Tonight, spend a lively evening with us in Rome. After a short drive, we'll arrive at a characteristic trattoria to relax and enjoy a typical Italian meal, soaking up The Eternal City's unique atmosphere all the while.
Adult Price: €71 Ancient and Christian Rome (Available on Day 11)Join us on an exploration of Rome's past with our Local Specialist. On this trip you'll visit the Catacombs, where the early Christians assembled to escape persecution and which were used as underground cemeteries. We’ll also pass by the pyramid of Cestius and the baths of Caracalla.
Adult Price: €43 Tivoli and Gardens of the Villa d’Este (Available on Day 12)Enjoy the gardens and fountains of the famous Villa d’Este. We’ll see its grottos and pavilions, the Avenue of a Hundred Fountains, the Dragon Fountain and the Fountain of the Water Organ.
Adult Price: €51