Best of Italy
From history and architecture to coasts and cuisine
Journey through Italy on this once-in-a-lifetime escorted vacation! Visit the historical cities of Rome, Florence, Milan, Venice, and Genoa, feast your eyes on the coast from Capri, Sorrento, and Cinque Terre, and see sites like Pomeii, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, St. Francis Basilica in Assisi, and Juliet's Balcony in Verona! With a special stop in Lugano, Switzerland, this Italian dream vacation is packed with extraordinary beauty from start to finish.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Rome (FCO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed, or similar:
- 2 nights in Rome at the BV Oly Hotel
- 2 nights in Montecatini at the Ambasciatori Palace
- 1 night in Genoa at the Starhotels President Hotel
- 2 nights in Lake Maggiore at the Simplon Hotel
- 2 nights in the Venice area at the Poppi Hotel
- 1 night in the Assisi area at the City Hotel & Suites
- 2 nights in the Sorrento area at the Central Park
- 1 night in Rome at the BV Oly Hotel
- Sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Rome City Tour including St. Peter’s Square
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Florence Walking Tour
- Excursion to Cinque Terre
- Genoa City Tours
- Excursion to Lugano, Switzerland
- Stop at Juliet’s balcony in Verona
- Boat ride to St. Mark's Square in Venice
- St. Francis Basilica Tour in Assisi
- Tour of Pompeii
- Excursion to Capri by boat
- Buffet breakfast daily and 4 dinners
- Transportation by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach (with complimentary Wi-Fi)
- Headsets throughout the tour
- Services of a Professional Travel Director
- Hotel tips, taxes, porterage and service charges
Great Ways to Explore
-
Set sail on unforgettable boat rides in Capri and Venice.
- See Italy's most impressive cathedrals: St. Peter's in Rome, Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, St. Francis Basilica in Assisi, the Duomo in Milan, St. Mark's in Venice, and plenty of others.
-
Spot the peaks of the Alps from picturesque Lake Maggiore.
-
Visit tons of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Early Christian monuments of Ravenna, the villages of Cinque Terre, the archaeological site of Pompeii, and the historic city centers of Genoa, Verona, Rome, Florence, and Venice.
-
Indulge in gelato, pizza, pasta, and other regional specialties, as you travel north to south.
Italy is unlike any other country. Packed with ancient history, artistic masterpieces, rural villages, and charming cities, Italy is culturally fascinating and aesthetically beautiful. On this incredible vacation, you will discover all of this and more, as you taste world-renowned Italian cuisine, visit iconic landmarks, and feast your eyes on the bright blue coast.
Start your 13-night adventure in the Eternal City of Rome, where you'll sightsee through the postcard-worthy sites like the Colosseum, St. Peter's Square, the Trevi Fountain, and many others. Next, live out your Tuscan dreams as you visit Pisa and Florence! During your drives through the hilly roads of Tuscany, keep your eyes peeled for terraced vineyards, olive groves, and terra cotta-roofed villas. From wine country, you'll journey to Cinque Terre and Genoa for some colorful, coastal charm!
Venture to the bustling fashion capital of Milan, then get ready for some spectacular scenery. During your stay in the Lake Maggiore area, you'll enjoy an excursion to Lugano, Switzerland! Feast your eyes on sparkling lakes, sky-high mountains, and rolling greenery like you've never seen before.
Listen to music as you float down the canals in Venice and travel back to Elizabethan times as you visit Juliet's Balcony in Verona. Explore medieval towns in the Umbrian Hills, and make a special stop at St. Francis' Basilica in Assisi. Discover even more of Italy's fascinating past in Pompeii, before you journey down to the southern gems: Sorrento and Capri. Take in the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast and enjoy an included boat ride through Capri!
This Italian adventure is the perfect blend of guided tours and independent exploration. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, this vacation is 100% stress-free. No need to worry about transportation, directions, or language barriers. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Rome (FCO)
- Round-trip airport transfers
- Accommodation in hotels listed, or similar:
- 2 nights in Rome at the BV Oly Hotel
- 2 nights in Montecatini at the Ambasciatori Palace
- 1 night in Genoa at the Starhotels President Hotel
- 2 nights in Lake Maggiore at the Simplon Hotel
- 2 nights in the Venice area at the Poppi Hotel
- 1 night in the Assisi area at the City Hotel & Suites
- 2 nights in the Sorrento area at the Central Park
- 1 night in Rome at the BV Oly Hotel
- Sightseeing as described in the itinerary, including the following:
- Rome City Tour including St. Peter’s Square
- Leaning Tower of Pisa
- Florence Walking Tour
- Excursion to Cinque Terre
- Genoa City Tours
- Excursion to Lugano, Switzerland
- Stop at Juliet’s balcony in Verona
- Boat ride to St. Mark's Square in Venice
- St. Francis Basilica Tour in Assisi
- Tour of Pompeii
- Excursion to Capri by boat
- Buffet breakfast daily and 4 dinners
- Transportation by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach (with complimentary Wi-Fi)
- Headsets throughout the tour
- Services of a Professional Travel Director
- Hotel tips, taxes, porterage and service charges
-
Set sail on unforgettable boat rides in Capri and Venice.
- See Italy's most impressive cathedrals: St. Peter's in Rome, Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, St. Francis Basilica in Assisi, the Duomo in Milan, St. Mark's in Venice, and plenty of others.
-
Spot the peaks of the Alps from picturesque Lake Maggiore.
-
Visit tons of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Early Christian monuments of Ravenna, the villages of Cinque Terre, the archaeological site of Pompeii, and the historic city centers of Genoa, Verona, Rome, Florence, and Venice.
-
Indulge in gelato, pizza, pasta, and other regional specialties, as you travel north to south.
Italy is unlike any other country. Packed with ancient history, artistic masterpieces, rural villages, and charming cities, Italy is culturally fascinating and aesthetically beautiful. On this incredible vacation, you will discover all of this and more, as you taste world-renowned Italian cuisine, visit iconic landmarks, and feast your eyes on the bright blue coast.
Start your 13-night adventure in the Eternal City of Rome, where you'll sightsee through the postcard-worthy sites like the Colosseum, St. Peter's Square, the Trevi Fountain, and many others. Next, live out your Tuscan dreams as you visit Pisa and Florence! During your drives through the hilly roads of Tuscany, keep your eyes peeled for terraced vineyards, olive groves, and terra cotta-roofed villas. From wine country, you'll journey to Cinque Terre and Genoa for some colorful, coastal charm!
Venture to the bustling fashion capital of Milan, then get ready for some spectacular scenery. During your stay in the Lake Maggiore area, you'll enjoy an excursion to Lugano, Switzerland! Feast your eyes on sparkling lakes, sky-high mountains, and rolling greenery like you've never seen before.
Listen to music as you float down the canals in Venice and travel back to Elizabethan times as you visit Juliet's Balcony in Verona. Explore medieval towns in the Umbrian Hills, and make a special stop at St. Francis' Basilica in Assisi. Discover even more of Italy's fascinating past in Pompeii, before you journey down to the southern gems: Sorrento and Capri. Take in the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast and enjoy an included boat ride through Capri!
This Italian adventure is the perfect blend of guided tours and independent exploration. With a knowledgeable guide by your side, this vacation is 100% stress-free. No need to worry about transportation, directions, or language barriers. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Prices From:
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Departure Month:
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Day 1. Welcome to Rome!
Upon arrival in Rome, check into your first hotel! Settle in, then enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Feel free to explore the ancient capital on your own, and treat yourself to your first gelato cone!
This evening, you'll meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers.
Transfer from Rome airport (FCO)
BV Oly Hotel is located in a quiet part of Rome's business district. Amenities for this modern hotel include on-site parking, a daily breakfast buffet, and an on-site restaurant that serves authentic Italian cuisine and other culinary specialties. Additionally, the front desk is available 24/7 to accommodate guests around the clock.
Guest rooms include a private bathroom with a shower, a minibar, safe, TV, and air-conditioning. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi and room service.
The hotel is a 10 minute walk to San Paolo Metro Station giving guests easy travel access. The Colosseum is just 4 metro stops away, and Piazza Silvio d'Amico is a 4 minute walk from the hotel.
Located in the vicinity of Ponte Milvio and surrounded by ancient Roman residences, Grand Hotel Fleming it is the perfect place to enjoy the city's wealth in a relaxing environment. Located a 10-minute drive from the Foro Italico, Olympic Stadium and Auditorium, the hotel offers easy access to public transportation or taxis to the city center.
An elegant corner of Rome and a beloved celebrity hideaway, the Grand Hotel Fleming is an ideal location for a romantic weekend in Rome. Each of the 302 rooms are tastefully decorated and feature an en suite bathroom, in-room safe, air-conditioning, minibar and more. Wake up to a delicious buffet breakfast each morning, then relax with an Italian meal at the restaurant in the evening. The hotel's staff is happy to assist with booking tours, taxis and airport transfers.
Day 2. Rome
Recharge with a delicious breakfast, then explore the "Eternal City!" Steeped in history, the vibrant city of Rome is alive with beauty and culture. Today, enjoy sightseeing with a local guide, starting at St. Peter's and moving on to the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and other iconic highlights.
Day 3. Rome - Pisa - Montecatini
Picture this: vistas of rolling hills, winding roads lined with cypress trees, terraced vineyards, olive groves, and rural villages. Yep, you guessed it - today, you're headed for Tuscany. Enjoy a stop in Pisa, where you'll take a mini-train ride to see the Square of Miracles, and the famous Leaning Tower, of course!
This evening, you'll arrive in Montecatini. Settle in and rest up for another exciting day tomorrow!
Check-in - Ambasciatori Palace
Nestled in Montecatini Terme, this beautiful hotel boasts elegant decor, comfortable rooms, and warm hospitality. Open the door to your spacious room and find satellite flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, crisp air conditioning, and luxurious bath amenities.
Once you're all settled in, unpack your swimsuit and make a splash in the sparkling outdoor pool! Enjoy breathtaking views and the warm Tuscan sun. When you work up an appetite, treat yourself to a delicious meal featuring local cuisine at the onsite restaurant.
Day 4. Montecatini - Florence - Montecatini
Fuel up with a scrumptious breakfast, then get ready to immerse yourself in Renaissance beauty. Today, you'll enjoy an included excursion to Florence, where your local guide will show you all the city highlights on a walking tour. Feast your eyes on postcard-worthy sites, like Piazza Santa Croce, Piazza Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, and more. To top it all, see Piazza del Duomo and its breathtaking cathedral with the Giotto Campanile, as well as the magnificent East Doors, known as the "Gates of Paradise."
Tonight, you'll enjoy a delicious dinner and a good night's rest back in Montecatini.
Day 5. Montecatini - La Spezia - Cinque Terre - Genoa
Wave goodbye to Montecatini and say hello to La Spezia, a charming seaside city known as the gateway to Cinque Terre. From there, hop on a train and discover the spectacular candy-colored villages of Cinque Terre! Weave through the five romantic fishing villages of Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Riomaggiore, and Manarola.
From Levanto, you'll venture to the stunning city of Genoa, where you'll rest up after a fun-filled day.
Check-in - Starhotels President
One step into Starhotels President Genova will whisk you away into the old-world elegance of classic Italy, flawlessly combined with the charm of the hotel's contemporary charm. Located in the bustling city center, the chic property is opposite the Brignole railway station, making transportation a breeze during your stay.
Each guestroom is generous in size and amenities, boasting spacious interiors and thoughtful appointment which will make your stay comfortable and convenient. Stop by La Corte by Eataly restaurant to sample the Ligurian cuisine or simply to enjoy a very good cup of coffee.
Day 6. Genoa - Milan - Lake Maggiore
Enjoy a lovely breakfast, then embark on an introductory tour through the colorful city of Genoa. A maze of squares and alleys, this beautiful city grew around a port and boasts the largest medieval historical center in Europe. Some highlights include the remains of the city 17th-century fortifications!
After an exciting morning, you'll travel north into the plains of Lombardy. Then, enjoy a stop in Milan to marvel at its magnificent Gothic Duomo. Yes, you will have time for pictures!
Finish off your day in Baveno on Lake Maggiore, where you will spend the night.
Check-in - Hotel Simplon
In addition to an outdoor pool and a children's pool, Hotel Simplon provides a sauna and a fitness center. The hotel offers a restaurant. A bar/lounge is on site where guests can unwind with a drink. High-speed wireless Internet access is available for a surcharge. This Baveno hotel also offers multilingual staff, a garden, and laundry facilities.
Day 7. Lake Maggiore - Lugano, Switzerland - Lake Maggiore
Today is all about natural beauty. Spend the morning leisurely getting to know Lake Maggiore, one of Italy's largest lakes, located on the very edge of Alpine Switzerland. Speaking of Switzerland... enjoy an included excursion to Lugano! Make sure your camera's charged - today's filled with photo-worthy landscapes.
Day 8. Lake Maggiore - Verona - Venice Area
Rise and shine! Wake up near glistening Lake Maggiore and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Then, travel across the Po River plain for a stop in the romantic city of Verona! Step into Elizabethan times as you visit Juliet's balcony from Shakespeare's famous Romeo and Juliet, then enjoy some time at leisure marveling at the Roman Arena.
Continue on to the Venice area and settle into your next accommodation!
Check-in - Hotel Poppi
Experience true Italian hospitality at this elegant hotel located right in between Venice and Padua. Family managed since 1965, Hotel Poppi combines modern facilities with classic charm. Relax in your soundproof room that comes decorated in a classic style - the perfect setting after a long day of exploring.
Treat yourself to a delicious meal at their on-site restaurant, which boasts a mouthwatering menu of regional Venetian fare! After dinner, unwind with a glass of local wine or sip on an espresso at the classy hotel bar.
Day 9. Venice
Venice is more like a romantic film set than a real-life city. Today, you'll have time to explore the crisscrossing canals, gondolas, arched bridges, palaces, and piazzas that make Venice so special.
Your included orientation starts with a boat ride to St. Mark's Square and is followed by a chance to watch Venetian glassblowers fashion their delicate objects, much like they did centuries ago.
While in Venice, why not treat yourself to a once-in-a-lifetime gondola ride? Let a local singer serenade you as you glide through picturesque canals.
Day 10. Venice - Ravenna - Assisi area
Enjoy a scenic drive southward, across the Po Delta, to Ravenna. a beautiful city known for its treasure of Byzantine mosaics, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
After an interesting visit to Ravenna, you'll continue to Assisi, a town that's changed very little since the Middle Ages. Listen to history come alive, as your local guide brings you to Assisi's most fascinating points. See the Basilica of St. Francis with its famous frescoes by Giotto!
Check-in - City Hotel & Suites in Assisi
City Hotel & Suites is situated just minutes from Assisi! You'll enjoy free WiFi, coffee/tea/making facilities, and television in every room. Enjoy a light lunch or coffee break on premises. City Hotel & Suites is an eco-friendly hotel, with over one third of the hotel's energy being produced by a photovoltaic system! Bicycle rental is available to guests for a small fee. The hotel is located near the main attractions in Umbria, allowing a convenient choice accommodation.
Day 11. Assisi - Pompeii - Sorrento Area
Today, you'll travel to Pompeii, where time stopped for this aristocratic town with the devastating eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. During your included guided visit, you'll see the remains of luxurious villas, temples, theater, and forum.
After an eye-opening visit to Pompeii, you'll carry on to Sorrento, nestled on a plateau above bright blue Bay of Naples. Wander the winding streets lined with shops and restaurants, then sit with a glass of wine and take in the easy-going lifestyle of this charming resort area.
Check-in - Panorama Palace Hotel
Step into luxury and relaxation at this charming hotel on the rocky coast of Meta di Sorrento. Just a 5-minute walk from the beach, Panorama Palace offers breathtaking sea views from its bright rooms and its peaceful terrace. Check-in with the friendly reception team and head up to your room. Find crisp air conditioning, satellite TV, free Wi-Fi, plush bedding, and stylish decor.
Once you're all settled in, make a splash in the sparkling pool, enjoy views of the Gulf of Naples from the sun deck, and treat yourself to a delicious meal at the onsite restaurant.
Day 12. Sorrento Area - Capri - Sorrento Area
Get ready for a fun-filled day of outstanding beauty! Today, you'll enjoy a day trip to the legendary island of Capri, surrounded by a rocky coastline where the crashing blue sea has formed awe-inspiring caves. The town on Capri bursts to life with winding streets, pretty piazzettas, fashionable boutiques, and traditional restaurants. Enjoy some time to explore on your own before heading back to Sorrento!
Day 13. Sorrento Area - Rome
You'll have today to take the area in at leisure. Be sure to get your extra souvenir shopping, food sampling, and sightseeing in before your trip comes to an end!
BV Oly Hotel is located in a quiet part of Rome's business district. Amenities for this modern hotel include on-site parking, a daily breakfast buffet, and an on-site restaurant that serves authentic Italian cuisine and other culinary specialties. Additionally, the front desk is available 24/7 to accommodate guests around the clock.
Guest rooms include a private bathroom with a shower, a minibar, safe, TV, and air-conditioning. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi and room service.
The hotel is a 10 minute walk to San Paolo Metro Station giving guests easy travel access. The Colosseum is just 4 metro stops away, and Piazza Silvio d'Amico is a 4 minute walk from the hotel.
Located in the vicinity of Ponte Milvio and surrounded by ancient Roman residences, Grand Hotel Fleming it is the perfect place to enjoy the city's wealth in a relaxing environment. Located a 10-minute drive from the Foro Italico, Olympic Stadium and Auditorium, the hotel offers easy access to public transportation or taxis to the city center.
An elegant corner of Rome and a beloved celebrity hideaway, the Grand Hotel Fleming is an ideal location for a romantic weekend in Rome. Each of the 302 rooms are tastefully decorated and feature an en suite bathroom, in-room safe, air-conditioning, minibar and more. Wake up to a delicious buffet breakfast each morning, then relax with an Italian meal at the restaurant in the evening. The hotel's staff is happy to assist with booking tours, taxis and airport transfers.
Day 14. Depart Italy
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and say ciao to Italy. Enjoy a convenient transfer to the airport, then board your plane. Spend your flight home replaying warm memories and dreaming about your next adventure!
Transfer to Rome airport (FCO)
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
Advertised vacation package prices are per person based on two people traveling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised package rates are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, were available via the Aer Lingus Vacation Store website and may not represent current prices.
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