Enjoy the best of both worlds during your exploration of Italy with a mix of private guided tours and transfers mixed in with a number of days on a small group trip taking in the best sights (some off the beaten path) along the way. Carefully crafted to create an intimate, indulgent introduction to one of the world’s most popular peninsulas, this tour takes in all the major, must-see attractions in Italy. Breach the typical tourist barriers to become totally immersed in the history of Rome, the creativity of Florence, the romance of Venice, and the glamour of Milan. Then move beyond the signature cities to the rustic countryside regions, the Cinque Terre and the lakeside spectacle of Lake Como. Enjoy the splendours of Italy as you uncover the elegance of Italian culture, cuisine and history.

Remember, there is always the option to add a full day or afternoon of private guided services throughout your small group multi-day tour. Do things your way, at an affordable price, knowing that you have 24/7 support as you travel.

In general, the small group tours depart every 2nd Monday from April 9, 2012 until September 24, 2012 (weekly departures in May and September) and have a maximum of 16 people per trip.

Rome, the 'Eternal City', is the capital of Italy. The historical center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure to explore the sites of the Colosseum and the Roman Forum. A few blocks away, Old Rome is the center of the medieval and Renaissance periods, with beautiful plazas, cathedrals, the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Fountains of Trevi, Campo de' Fiori, Spanish Steps, and plenty of shopping and dining. Just across the river is the Vatican, the Papal City State and its endless treasure troves of sights, relics, and museums, as well as the surrounding Italian neighborhood, Vaticano. Via Veneto leads north into modern Rome to the train station and is lined with glitzy shops and hotels for every budget.

A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.

Enjoy a private Airport (Fiumicino/Ciampino) transfer with a private vehicle and driver.

Discover Rome by foot on your guided 3 hour walking tour today.  Don't forget your camera as you visit the Spanish Steps, Scalinata, The Trevi Fountain, The Pantheon, and Navona Square.

The Nerva Hotel is a charming three star hotel lying in the heart of Rome’s Historical Centre, among the majesties of the Coliseum and Piazza Venezia, just in front of the beautiful Imperial Forums of Nerva, Augustus and Trajan. With a pleasant walk you will be able to reach easily other jewels of the town, such as the Campidoglio, the Trevi Fountain, the Quirinale and Piazza di Spagna. The hotel is located in a silent and typical area, a stone’s throw away from the elegant Palace of the lineage of Grillo, where Alberto Sordi’s famous film “Il Marchese del Grillo” was shot, and where it will be surprisingly easy for you to experience the atmosphere of “Imperial Rome” and “La Dolce Vita”.

Overnight at Hotel Nerva (3*).

Start your tour of the Baroque Rome period with a visit to Europe's longest and widest staircase, The Spanish Steps built by architect Alessandro Specchi in 1721. These steps were dominated by the Christian church in the 18th century to connect the Bourbon Spanish Embassy to the Holy See. Next you will stand in the presence of the majestic and famous Trevi Fountain which stands at 85 feet high and 65 feet wide, it is the largest Baroque fountain in the city. Before leaving, don't forget to make a wish and thrown a coin behind you into the fountain for luck! Time to visit the Pantheon, built as a temple to the ancient Gods of Rome and rebuilt in the early 2nd century AD. Walk through the halls in the footsteps of ancient Roman leaders and other historical figures. Lastly, you will come to Piazza Navona, originally built for the agones or "games" for Rome. The Piazza Navona is now the pride of Baroque Roman architectural and art history. (Please refer to grid above to see if vehicle and driver is included or not - both Guide only and Guide with vehicle and driver are available).

In the afternoon, enjoy some time on your own to relax.

Transfer using a local taxi. Please note that this is not included in trip price and is payable locally.

Meet up with your group this evening (6pm) at Hotel Nerva (Via Tor de’ Conti 3/4, 00184 Rome) who will be joining you on the next 14 days adventure as you discover Italy together, and enjoy the first of many delicious Italian meals in a local restaurant.

The Hotel Nerva (3*) is a charming property in the heart of Rome’s Historical Centre, among the majesties of the Coliseum and Piazza Venezia, just in front of the beautiful Imperial Forums of Nerva, Augustus and Trajan. The family run hotel is located in a silent and typical area, and you'll receive a warm welcome by the multilingual staff upon your arrival. The cosy hotel is provided with a lift, and the rooms are fully fitted with a 22” LCD TV with digital and satellite channels, hair drier, telephone, private bathroom, air-conditioning, heating, strong-box, trouser press, towel warmer, mini-bar and a set of towels, bathrobe, and beach shoes. Additionally, a lovely and furnished lounge bar area with free WI-FI Internet connection is available.

Overnight at Hotel Nerva (B) or Similar.

Few cities have had such an influence on the world as Rome and, whilst it might not be caput mundi (capital of the World), it remains a city of huge historical significance. Discover its illustrious antiquity as you explore its classical streets in the company of a local Guide. Be dazzled by the plethora of famous sites and monuments as you are taken through the city, which is more like an outdoor museum. Hear about the history of Rome as you explore those well known local sites including: the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, the Piazza Navona, the Pantheon, the Roman Forum and the Colosseum.

Rome is a great place for shopping. There are five main shopping areas: Spanish Steps & Via dei Condotti - This street is one of the richest streets in Italy and one of the best streets for shopping in Rome. The Via Dei Condotti is home to Italy's top designer stores. Via del Corso – This busy pedestrianised street runs from Piazza del Popolo down to Piazza Venezia. It is home to the famous shops like the Ferrari flagship store and Swarowski Crystal. Trastevere – This rather bohemian area of the city with its many winding streets is great for shopping and getting lost in. Be sure to check out the outdoor food market in Piazza San Cosimato where locals bargain with the vendors. (7am -2pm.) - Viale Marconi and Porta Portese- Viale Marconi is very good for shopping and is particulary popular with young trendy Romans. A bit out from the city centre, it can be reached by talking the Metro Line B to Marconi. It is about 15 minutes away from the Colosseum. Porta Portese is the famous Roman flea market which takes place every Sunday from 8am until about 2pm. Another place of interest for food and market lovers is the Piazza Vittorio where a mesmerizing array of fresh foods, fruits, fish and meat, run by people from all over the world is displayed. Piazza Navona & Via del Governo Vecchio – The well known Piazza Navona is a great place for art lovers, as the surrounding streets contain lots of art galleries and antique shops.

Overnight at Hotel Nerva (B) or Similar.

Head out of the city this morning for a guided tour of a famous and ancient site, the underground cemeteries known as the Catacombs  Folowing this, a visit will be made at the Vatican Museum, a complex of different pontifical museums which were built to promote knowledge of the arts and history. Here you will find some of the greatest artistic masterpieces in the world, spectacular archaeological finds and the rich Gallery of Tapestries. A must-see highlight is Michelangelo’s monumental artistic achievement, the remarkable painted ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.

This afternoon you'll be brought out of the city for a guided tour of another famous and ancient site, the underground cemeteries known as the Catacombs.

Overnight at Hotel Nerva (B) or Similar.

It’s time to depart Rome this morning and you'll get to travel the scenic route along the Via Salaria (the ancient salt route) as you make your way towards Spoleto, stopping at historic towns along the way. The first stop is at is the picturesque town of Rieti, whose cathedral dates back to the 12th century and features a Romanesque bell tower. You'll also get to visit Spoleto, the home of the arresting Albornozian Castle, whose hilltop position offers an incredible view over the town and surrounding valley.

Later this afternoon you'll get to marvel at the Basilica of St Francis in Assisi, dating back to the 13th century and one of the most important places of Christian pilgrimage in Italy.

Overnight at Hotel Fortuna (B) (or similar).

Admire the breathtaking countryside on the transfer from Perugia towards Volterra. Enjoy the changing Tuscan landscapes, an area renowned for its exquisite art, food and wine. An enjoyable stop enroute will be at Siena to explore its exquisite sites, such as the Palazzo Pubblico, a fine example of Italian medieval and Gothic architecture and of course the Piazza del Campo, arguably the most beautiful arena in Italy.

Take time to stretch your legs are you visit the beautiful town of San Gimignano, known as ‘The City of Towers’ and one of Tuscany’s best preserved medieval towns.
Only fourteen towers remain, however, they make for an impressive site and can be seen from miles around. This is one of Tuscany’s best preserved medieval towns, and even though is a popular with tourist its cobbled streets, historic centre and architecture make it a worthwhile visit. Finally,  arrive in the traditional hilltop town of Volterra to enjoy the eye-popping views across the Tuscan hills.

After settling  into your comfortable hotel in the quiet part of town, enjoy a delicious local dinner.

Overnight at Hotel San Lino (B) (or similar).

It is a short yet dramatic drive to Florence, the home of Renaissance art and architecture. Experience a wonderful walking tour with a local guide, which taking you to some of the city’s most remarkable sites. See the Ponte Vecchio (medieval bridge over the River Arno),
 the Duomo Cathedral, the Uffizi Gallery and Santa Croce – the burial place of some of the most illustrious Italians, including Michelangelo, Galileo and Machiavelli.

The afternoon and evening is your own to further absorb your Italian surroundings.
Why not further explore the streets of this exquisite city then sample the local
cuisine in one of the many restaurants in the old city.

Choose from any number of optional private guided activities including; a tour taking in the artisinal side of the city where you can visit an artist's workshop and see how ancient methods of production are still carried out, spend the morning or afternoon being shown the finer details of Italian cooking as you enjoy a hands on cooking lesson followed by lunch or dinner, enjoy a private guided tour of the city - either walking or not, of the general sights or of somewhere specific such as the Uffizi or the Accademia, If you are interested in exploring further afield, consider a private guide tour to towns such as Lucca, Pisa, Siena or the picturesque villages in Chianti where you can visit local farms and vineyards to sample the produce such as wine and olive oil. Walking and biking excursions can also be arranged - all you need to do is ask! If you are interested in luxury cars, you may like to consider a tour to Maranello - the home of Ferrari. Your Sales Advisor will be more than happy to help!

Overnight at Hotel San Lino (B) (or similar).

This morning you are in for a treat as you journey to ancient Pisa. Its famous Leaning Tower needs no introduction. This 12th century freestanding bell tower seems to defy gravity and has been attracting visitors for many years. View the adjoining cathedral, the Baptistery and the decorated Campo Santo, or ‘Holy Field.’ (entrances not included).

Get your cameras ready as you are transfered to the charming city of Lucca, probably the most spectacular walled town in Italy. Explore the ancient walls with your guide, before discovering the house where Puccini was born, the quirky Torre Guinigi and more!

Relish another delicious Italian evening meal together this evening.

Overnight at Albergo San Martino(3*)(B).

It’s time to travel to the Italian Riviera today and explore its rugged coastline which includes the five captivating villages that make up the Cinque Terre, back-dropped by breathtaking sea views. There will be plenty of time to take in the beguiling vista as you admire the villages from the famous walking track through the National Park. Alternatively, access the villages via boat or train and discover the secrets of this stunning UNESCO World Heritage site.

Overnight at Albergo San Martino(3*)(B).

Discover the scenic back roads and enjoy a stunning drive over the Apennine Mountains to Ravenna this morning.

There is an optional shared tour of San Vitale & Byzantine mosaics upon arrival which you may like to participate in. Alternatively, you can explore the sites independently.

After a visit of Ravenna, your journey will continue to the famous city of Venice. The journey should take about 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Venice is best travelled on the water, so sit back and enjoy a "vaporetto" (water taxi) ride to your hotel, located in one of the best locations on one of Venice’s historic islands.

Enjoy the flavours of Venice over dinner tonight and then maybe take a delightful evening stroll through this romantic city.

Overnight at Locanda la Corte Bed & Breakfast (or similar)(B).

This morning immerse yourself fully in this splendid city as you explore its iconic sites and monuments on a shared guided walking tour. Watch daily Venetian life pass by in the bustling St Mark’s Square, visit the gleaming Basilica, the most famous cathedral church in the city, view the Campanile (bell tower) and the Gothic Doges Palace. Venice is a labyrinth of canals crossed by beautiful bridges, and you shall visit some of its most attractive, including the Bridge of Sighs and the Rialto Bridge as you wind through the city in the company of your guide.

This afternoon is free for you to continue your enthralling exploration of the city.

Enjoy the many wonders of Venice; Consider taking a private gondola ride finishing at a beautiful Venetian restaurant with a private boat entrance, wander the streets with a personal guide to show you the sites, take a private boat to see the stunning islands of Murano and Burano or to lesser well known areas in the Venetian lagoon. For those looking at something outside of the city, we suggest a visit to the romantic city of Verona or enjoy a half day shared tour to the outskirts of Venice enjoying some wine tasting among the ancient Venetian vineyards. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if any of these options are of interest.

Overnight at Locanda la Corte Bed & Breakfast (B).

Leaving Venice, you'll head to romantic Verona, famous for Juliet’s Balcony from Shakespeare’s play Romeo & Juliet and its many well preserved archaeological sites. Explore the city with your guide, including its colossal Roman amphitheatre, the Arena, the picturesque Piazza delle Erbe, the Madonna Verona fountain and Tower Lamberti. Aside from its historical sites, Verona offers some fantastic shopping opportunities with its abundance of unique shops and boutiques.

This afternoon offers a contrast from the bustle as you enter the serene lakes region of northern Italy nestled in the foothills of the Alps. This region boasts impressive scenery as the mountains roll into the deep lakes. Lake Como is a popular holiday destination for local Italians looking for a summer retreat, evident by the beautiful old villas scattered alongside the lake.

Enjoy a ferry ride on lake Como and take in the views of the pretty lakeshore villages and towering hills that surround the lake.

Tonight, settle into your own lakeside hotel with marvellous views, making it a perfect setting for this evening’s meal.

Overnight at The Grand Hotel Victoria(4*)or similar (B).

This morning the destination is across the border into Switzerland to explore the lakeside town of Lugano, not only an important Swiss financial centre, but also a delightful town of parks, flowers and villas. On the way back, enjoy a brief visit of the town of Como, an ancient walled town on the lake front full of lively cafes and interesting shops. On your return you are free to relax and enjoy Lake Como, an oasis of tranquillity with arresting views across the pristine lakes and surrounding majestic mountains, an area which continues to attract celebrities and movie-makers alike.

Overnight at The Grand Hotel Victoria(4*)or similar (B).

Leave the serenity of the Lakes today and head to Milan, Italy’s famous fashion capital, where the city is as beautiful as its people. Enjoy a walk around the city and appreciate its glamour as you pass by, amongst other attractions, the impressive Gothic cathedral and La Scala, Italy’s most famous Opera House.

The afternoon is at your leisure - wander through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, the world’s most beautiful shopping mall, or maybe attend an opera?

Milan is world famous for its shopping! Begin your shopping discovery in the heart of the luxury shopping area in Milan: Via Montenapoleone, Via della Spiga and Via Sant'Andrea, elegant streets that together with Via Manzoni, Via Borgospesso and Via Santo Spirito are the outer limits of the famous Fashion Quadrilatero. This area contains the most prestigious boutiques and showrooms in the world, full of minimalist design and high tech.

Consider taking a private guided afternoon tour to visit the great monuments of Milan, such as the Cathedral, Sforzesco Castle, and the Santa Maria delle Grazie Church. Milan's giant cathedral is one of the largest Gothic churches in the world at 157m long. The Castello Sforzesco is a Renaissance palace which combines a forbidding exterior with a delightful interior. The Neo-Classical opera house - known popularly as “La Scala”, opened in 1778 and is now one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world. The Santa Maria delle Grazie Church - a beautiful 15th century Renaissance convent, is famous all over the world for the Cenacolo (Last Supper) by Leonardo da Vinci. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you are interested in adding this to your tour.

Why not treat yourself to a fine dining experience this evening. Restaurants that you may like to consider are Sadler, Il Luogo di Aimo e Nadia (2 Michelin stars), Cracco (2 Michelin stars), El Brellin or Dolce & Gabbana’s Restaurant Gold.

Overnight at Hotel Bavaria (B).

Your small group tour finishes after breakfast this morning. Wish your travel companions ciao! before you depart the hotel this morning.

Enjoy an airport transfer in private vehicle with English speaking driver. Please note that a surcharge may be charged to you if you require a transfer after 8pm or before 7am.

Depart from International Airport. End of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart (Int`l Airport).