Highlights of Italy

Get ready to experience the best of Italy on this unforgettable 16-day small group tour!

From the historic landmarks of Rome to the charming canals of Venice, and everything in between, this itinerary has it all.

Stay in luxurious 4-star accommodations and travel in comfort on high-speed rail as you explore the stunning cities of Florence, Milan, Turin, Verona, Naples, and more. With an included activity in each city, you’ll get a taste of Italy’s rich history, culture, and cuisine.

Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure – book your spot today!

Package information

Travel dates

  • 25 September to 10 October 2023

Cost

  • $5,625 per person twin share
  • Want your own room? Add an extra $2,250*
  • Deposit = $400 with balance due by 31/07/2023

Ages

  • 20 to 65 year olds

Group size

  • Minimum 6
  • Maximum 12

Start and finish

  • Start in Rome
  • Finish in Rome

Trip style

  • Explorer.
  • Your tour pro will get you from city to city and give you a familiarisation experience. Then it’s up to you to seek out your own personal adventure. Go it alone or with other members from the group.

Inclusions

Meals

  • 13 Breakfasts
  • 2 Dinners

Transport

  • High Speed Train (combination 1st and 2nd class)
  • Metro

Accommodation

  • 4 star hotels in city centre
  • 15 nights

Included activities

  • Sunset sightseeing tour Rome
  • Highlights of Florence tour
  • Street food tour Milan
  • Underground tour Turin
  • Bike tour Verona
  • Classical concert in Venice
  • Street food and culture tour Naples

Why you’ll love this trip

  • Explore some of the best that Italy has to offer. Travelling around Italy on the high speed train network is travelling like a local! Nothing beats gliding along the rails at speeds of up to 300km/h.
  • Travel your way and see what you want to see. There’s plenty of free time so you can book the experiences that interest you. Plus, if you’re a bit afraid to do it on your own, buddy up with some of the group members and have a ball.
  • Don’t speak a word of Italiano – no problem. Your tour pro is an Aussie, so if English is your first language, you’re in good hands. All you have to do is get to the trip start point and we’ll take care of the rest.
  • You’ll be staying in the centre of town, right where the action is. You can walk to most of the things you’ll want to see and do. No wasting time with tour buses ferrying you in from the suburbs or relying on an expensive taxi to get you home at night.
  • And lets not forget the mouth-watering food and drink Italy has to offer. Your tour pro will share with you plenty of great places to eat and drink and things you must try.

Itinerary

Day 1 & 2 - Rome (Roma)

Day 1 – Arrive in Rome

Take time to embrace the Italian passion for life on this grand adventure that starts and ends in the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome.

Spend some time recouping from your long flight before meeting up with your tour pro.

Included activity:  You’ll explore the streets of Rome on a sunset sightseeing tour. See the centrally located squares—including the stunning Piazza Navona—part of the historical center of this ‘Eternal City.’ Visit the famed Trevi Fountain, Baroque Spanish Steps, the picturesque Pincian Hill, with its breathtaking view of the city, and much more.

Day 2 – Free time

Start by visiting the iconic Colosseum, one of the world’s most famous landmarks, and then head to the nearby Roman Forum to explore the ruins of ancient Rome.

Stroll through the charming streets of Trastevere, with its picturesque squares and lively nightlife, and then head to the Vatican City to admire the stunning art collections in the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel.

Foodies can sample delicious Roman cuisine, such as pasta alla carbonara and saltimbocca alla romana, and shop for souvenirs at the bustling Campo de’ Fiori market.

And when you need a break from the city’s crowds, head to the tranquil Villa Borghese gardens, with their beautiful fountains and stunning views.

????️ Hotel: Hotel Quirinale or similar

Day 3 & 4 - Florence (Firenze)

Day 3 – Arrive in Florence

Florence, known as the birthplace of the Renaissance, is a charming city located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. Its narrow cobblestone streets, picturesque piazzas, and iconic landmarks such as the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio make it a must-visit destination for any traveler to Italy.

With its rich history, art, and architecture, Florence offers endless opportunities for exploration, from touring world-famous museums like the Uffizi Gallery, to strolling through the beautiful Boboli Gardens. And with its renowned culinary scene, including delicious Tuscan cuisine and some of Italy’s best gelato, Florence is sure to delight your taste buds as well.

In the early afternoon, you’ll get to explore some of the hidden gems of Florence with a guided tour of the city.

Day 4 – Free time

Start by visiting the iconic Duomo, with its stunning dome and beautiful façade, and then head to the Uffizi Gallery to admire some of the world’s most famous art collections.

Stroll through the picturesque Piazza della Signoria, with its magnificent Palazzo Vecchio and copy of Michelangelo’s David statue, and then cross the Ponte Vecchio bridge to explore the charming Oltrarno neighborhood.

Foodies can sample delicious Tuscan cuisine at the city’s many restaurants, and shop for souvenirs at the bustling San Lorenzo market.

When you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the peaceful Boboli Gardens, with their stunning vistas and beautiful sculptures.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this beautiful city, Florence has plenty of options for travelers looking to explore on their own.

????️ Hotel: c-hotels or similar

Day 5 & 6 - Milan (Milano)

Day 5 – Arrive in Milan

Milan, Italy’s second-largest city, is a global center of fashion, design, and culture. Located in the northern Lombardy region, it is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and a modern flair. From the iconic Gothic Cathedral (Duomo di Milano) to the world-famous La Scala opera house, Milan is a city of contrasts, blending the old and new seamlessly.

Stroll down the fashionable Via Montenapoleone, where designer boutiques and luxury shops line the streets, or explore the city’s many museums and art galleries, including the Brera Gallery, with works by some of Italy’s most celebrated artists.

And with its renowned food scene, featuring everything from classic Milanese cuisine to international flavors, Milan is a city that will tantalize your taste buds.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, fashion, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this dynamic city, Milan is a destination that should not be missed.

In the early evening embark on a street food tour while experiencing the different areas of Milan.

Day 6 – Free time

You are spoilt for choice in Milan. One of the top attractions is the iconic Gothic Cathedral, where you can climb to the top and enjoy breathtaking views of the city.

Art lovers can visit the Pinacoteca di Brera, one of the most prestigious art galleries in Italy, featuring works by renowned artists such as Raphael and Caravaggio. Another popular attraction is the Sforza Castle, a 15th-century fortress housing a number of museums and art collections.

For a taste of Milan’s vibrant fashion scene, stroll down Via Montenapoleone, one of the city’s most upscale shopping streets, and browse the latest designer collections.

And when it’s time to relax, head to one of Milan’s many public parks, such as Parco Sempione, and enjoy a picnic or a leisurely walk.

????️ Hotel: nh Milano or similar

Day 7 & 8 - Turin (Torino)

Day 7 – Arrive in Turin

Turin is a city located in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy, known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and cultural heritage.

The city is home to the iconic Mole Antonelliana, a towering landmark that houses the National Museum of Cinema, as well as the Royal Palace of Turin, with its ornate Baroque architecture and vast art collections.

Turin is also a city of culinary delights, with its world-famous chocolate and wine, and its delicious cuisine featuring local specialties such as agnolotti pasta and bagna cauda dip.

And with its proximity to the Alps, Turin is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with plenty of skiing and snowboarding opportunities nearby.

Explore the fascinating history and key role Turin played in past conflicts with a tour of the underground tunnels beneth the fortress city.

Day 8 – Free time

Start by visiting the iconic Mole Antonelliana, with its panoramic views of the city, and then head to the Royal Palace of Turin, with its impressive art collections and stunning Baroque architecture.

Stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, with its beautiful piazzas and picturesque cafés, and then head to the vibrant Quadrilatero Romano neighborhood to sample delicious local specialties such as truffles, chocolate, and wine.

For a taste of Turin’s outdoor adventures, head to the nearby Alps, where you can go hiking in the beautiful mountains.

And when you need a break from the city’s crowds, head to the tranquil Valentino Park, with its beautiful gardens, medieval castle, and stunning views of the Po River.

????️ Hotel: Starhotels Majestic or similar

Day 9 & 10 - Verona

Day 9 – Arrive in Verona

Verona is a picturesque city located in the Veneto region of Italy, renowned for its rich history and stunning architecture.

It is perhaps best known as the setting for Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet”. 

Verona is also home to beautiful churches, piazzas, and historic buildings, including the impressive Castelvecchio fortress.

With its charming atmosphere and beautiful scenery, Verona is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Veneto region.

In the afternoon you’ll explore romantic Verona on two wheels on a relaxed bike tour. Stop at Verona’s main sights, such as an ancient Roman bridge over the Adige River, two Roman theaters, the old city walls, and even Juliet’s House—made famous by Shakespeare’s tragic play, ‘Romeo and Juliet.’ As you pedal through the UNESCO-listed historic center of Verona, hear stories of the city’s history, art, and architecture.

Day 10 – Free time

There’s plenty to see and in Verona, but you must include these on your list.

  • Juliet’s House: This iconic attraction is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Verona. You can see the famous balcony where Romeo is said to have wooed Juliet and leave a love letter at the wall dedicated to the tragic lovers.

  • Verona Arena: This ancient Roman amphitheater is one of the most impressive landmarks in Verona and still hosts concerts and events to this day.

  • Piazza delle Erbe: This picturesque square is the heart of Verona’s historic center and is surrounded by beautiful buildings and cafes.

  • Castelvecchio: This impressive fortress houses a museum of art and history, with collections of medieval and Renaissance art and artifacts.

  • Torre dei Lamberti: For stunning views of Verona and the surrounding countryside, head to the top of this medieval tower in the heart of the city.

????️ Hotel: Hotel Giberti & Spa or similar

Day 11 & 12 - Venice (Venezia)

Day 11 – Arrive in Venice

Venice is a city built on water, located in northeastern Italy. The city is famous for its canals, which are lined with beautiful buildings and connected by historic bridges.

Visitors to Venice can take a gondola ride through the canals, explore the city’s many museums and art galleries, and visit famous landmarks such as St. Mark’s Square and the Doge’s Palace.

The city is also known for its colorful Carnival celebrations, which take place each year in the weeks leading up to Lent.

With its unique charm and beauty, Venice is a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

In the evening enjoy a classical concert in a beautiful Venetian Church.

Day 12 – Free time

Here are some things to make the most of your free time in Venice.

  • St. Mark’s Basilica: This stunning cathedral is one of the most impressive landmarks in Venice, with its intricate mosaics, ornate architecture, and historic treasures.

  • Gondola Ride: A quintessential Venice experience, taking a gondola ride through the canals is a must-do activity for any traveler.

  • Rialto Bridge: One of the most famous bridges in Venice, the Rialto Bridge offers stunning views of the Grand Canal and is surrounded by shops and restaurants.

  • Doge’s Palace: This impressive palace was once the center of power in Venice and now houses a museum with collections of art and artifacts.

  • Murano Island: Just a short boat ride from Venice, Murano Island is famous for its glassmaking tradition and visitors can watch artisans at work and browse a variety of glassware and souvenirs.

????️ Hotel: nh Hotels or similar

Day 13 & 14 - Naples (Napoli)

Day 13 – Arrive in Naples

Naples is a bustling city in southern Italy, located on the coast of the Bay of Naples. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine.

Visitors to Naples can explore the city’s many historic landmarks, including the Royal Palace of Naples, the Castel dell’Ovo, and the Naples Cathedral.

The city is also a gateway to the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, which was destroyed by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD and has been preserved as an archaeological site.

Naples is also famous for its food, with traditional dishes such as pizza, spaghetti alla puttanesca, and sfogliatella being popular among locals and visitors alike.

In the afternoon, get a true taste of one of Italy’s culinary capitals on a food and sightseeing tour of Naples. Spend some time exploring the city, stopping at the city’s main squares and basilicas, as well as at hidden eateries to sample traditional dishes. Learn the history of Naples as you make your way from one mini-feast to the next, dining on everything from zucchini flowers to ragù, baccalà, and pizza.

Day 14 – Free time

Here are some things to include on your list of things to see in your free time in Naples.

  • Spaccanapoli: This narrow street is one of the oldest and most vibrant areas of the city, lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.

  • Piazza del Plebiscito: This grand square is the largest in Naples and is home to the Royal Palace, the San Francesco di Paola church, and the Palazzo Salerno.

  • Naples Underground: Visitors can take a tour of the underground tunnels and catacombs beneath the city, which offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient history.

  • Museo di Capodimonte: This art museum is housed in a former royal palace and contains an impressive collection of Italian and European art, including works by Caravaggio and Titian.

????️ Hotel: Starhotels or similar

Day 15 - Rome (Roma)

Day 15 – Free time

We head back to our starting point. Pick up where you left off, or squeeze in the things you missed earlier, before departing for home the next day.

????️ Hotel: Hotel Quirinale or similar

Booking conditions

The Booking Conditions you agree to when you make your booking apply to your trip. If you are rebooking a trip with a credit voucher you will need to agree to the most current version of the Booking Conditions that apply when you rebook.

Please take the time to read and understand the conditions of booking set out below prior to booking a trip with us.

We strongly recommend that you also read the Essential Trip Information and Important Notes relating to your trip prior to booking to ensure that you understand the itinerary, style and physical demands of the trip you are undertaking. 

Our contract

By booking a trip with us you have agreed to be bound by the terms and conditions set out in:

  • these Booking Conditions;
  • Essential Trip Information that applies to your trip; and
  • any Special Conditions that may apply,

Your booking will be accepted by us on this basis. The services to be provided are those referred to in your booking confirmation invoice.

Privacy policy

Any personal information that we collect about you will be handled in accordance with our Privacy Policy and may be used for any purpose associated with the operation of a trip.

In making this booking you consent to this information being passed on to the relevant persons such as our agents, service providers or other suppliers to enable us to operate the trip or, if permitted by any relevant Spam laws, to send you marketing material in relation to our events and special offers.

You are responsible for reviewing this Privacy Policy periodically and informing yourself of any changes to this Privacy Policy.

Deposit requirement

You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit for your booking to be confirmed.  You are required to pay a deposit of AUD $400 per person per trip, unless otherwise stated in the Special Conditions.

If your booking is made within 56 days of the departure date then the full amount is payable at the time of booking.

Deposit amounts vary for selected trips and special campaigns that may be run by us from time to time, as set out in and subject to the Special Conditions.

 Acceptance of booking and final payments

If we accept your booking, we will issue you with a booking confirmation invoice. A contract will exist between you and us from the date we issue the confirmation invoice or if you book within 56 days of departure the contract will exist when we accept your payment.

Please refer to your booking confirmation invoice for details regarding final payments, including how to make the payment. Payment of the balance of the trip price is due 56 days before the departure date, except as otherwise set out in the Special Conditions.

If this balance is not paid on or before the due date we reserve the right to treat your booking as cancelled and any cancellation charges outlined at clause 7 (Cancellation by You) will apply.

Prices and surcharges

Our trip prices are subject to variable and seasonal pricing, both of which are standard practice within the travel industry.

This means our trip prices may vary at any time in accordance with demand, market conditions and availability.

It is possible that different passengers on the same trip have been charged different prices. Your best option if you like the price you see is to book at that time.

Any reduced pricing or discounts that may become available after you have paid your deposit will not apply.

If you wish to cancel your booking to take advantage of a cheaper price, full cancellation conditions apply as set out below in clause 7 (Cancellation by You).

The most up to date pricing is available on our website.

We reserve the right to impose surcharges up to 56 days before departure due to unfavourable changes in exchange rates, increases in airfares or other transportation costs, increases in local operator costs, taxes, or if government action should require us to do so. In such instances we will be responsible for any amount up to 2% of the trip price and you will be responsible for the balance.

If any surcharge results in an increase of more than 10% of the trip price you may cancel the booking within 14 days of notification of the surcharge and obtain a full refund. Please note that a surcharge may be applied to a purchase made by credit card.

Your details

For us to confirm your travel arrangements, you must provide all requested details with the balance of the trip price.

Necessary details vary by trip; they include but are not limited to full name as per passport, date of birth, nationality, passport number, passport issue and expiry date and any pre-existing medical conditions you have which may affect your ability to complete your travel arrangements.

Cancellation by you

If you cancel some or all portions of your booking the cancellation terms set out below will apply. A cancellation will only be effective when we receive written confirmation that you have sent to your relevant sales representative of the cancellation. If you cancel a trip:

(a) 56 days or more prior to departure, we will hold your deposit amount as a credit;
(b) between 31 and 55 days prior to departure, we charge a cancellation fee of 35% of the total booking cost;
(c) between 30 and 15 days prior to departure, we charge a cancellation fee of 70% of the total booking cost; or
(d) 14 days or fewer prior to departure, we charge a cancellation fee of 100% of the booking cost.

You are strongly advised to take out cancellation insurance at the time of booking. If you leave a trip for any reason after it has commenced, we are not obliged to make any refunds for unused services.

If you fail to join a trip, join it after departure, or leave it prior to its completion, no refund will be made.

The above cancellation terms are in addition to fees which may be levied by accommodation providers, travel agents or third-party tour and transport operator fees. Please refer to clause 19 (Liability), which provides more information about your rights under Australian Consumer Law which may apply to your cancellation.

Cancellation by us

Our trips are guaranteed to depart once they have six fully paid customers and subject to reasonable itinerary changes as described in these Booking Conditions.

In the event that we cancel your trip, you can transfer amounts paid to an alternate departure date or receive a refund, unless your trip is cancelled due to a Force Majeure Event.

In the event of any cancellation, there will be no claim for damages by either party against the other and we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that you may have incurred as a result of your booking including but not limited to visas, vaccinations, travel insurance excess or non-refundable flights.

Booking amendments

Transfers to a third party or an alternative trip are only permitted when operationally possible and, in the case of transferring to a third party, where the transferee meets all the requirements in relation to the trip. Certain fees may apply.

No amendments are permitted to your booking within 56 days of departure.