Italy: Highlights of North and South

Take a history walk through the back alleys of lesser-known Venice and a 30 minutes gondola ride down the iconic Grand Canal. After breakfast or lunch in your hotel, meet your local guide at Venice’s centrally located Clients Hotel. Stroll along the intricate network of Venetian alleys, some famous and some hidden gems, learning about the historic significance of the old neighborhoods from your guide. Step over flagstone paths and pretty stone bridges, traversing the Grand Canal, before stepping into a gondola for one of the most romantic rides in the world. Experience the spirit of Venice, the power center of Renaissance Europe, as you listen to the soothing sound of the gondolier’s oars. Return to your hotel after this charming tour. (Duration: 2.5 hrs; Private activity; Fitness level: moderate, people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Please wear comfortable shoes, the weather may call for a light raincoat or umbrella)

Visit the famous islands of the Venetian lagoon that are known for their handicrafts. At the scheduled time, you will be guided from your hotel in Venice to the meeting point. Once you reach, settle into a comfortable boat and travel to Murano. Along the way, your guide will point out interesting landmarks and small islets. At Murano, walk along the narrow streets to a glassblower’s workshop. This small island is world-famous for its exquisite pieces of glass art. Watch a skilled glass blower craft delicate pieces of glassware right in front of you. You could then browse the collection of finished products and explore the island on your own. Later, board the boat for the ride to Burano, famed for its handmade lace, once considered the best in Europe. Make your way past vibrantly painted houses, lined along the canal, to a lace-making facility. See the women use centuries-old techniques to stitch beautiful swathes of lace. Afterward, check out some of the local bakeries and sample their wares before heading back to the boat. (Duration: half day; Shared activity; Group size: max 20 ppl; Fitness level: moderate, please note that this tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or people requiring special assistance; Boat round trip and glass and lace-making demonstrations included; Pick up assistance from the hotel to the meeting point is included; Carry hat, sunscreen, and a bottle of water; There is a lot of walking involved, so comfortable shoes are recommended).

Here are our recommendations on what you can do in Como. Start off with one of the three branches of the lake. Discover the rich cultural heritage of the city of Como through its ancient churches, palaces and museums. Mingle with locals at the picturesque Piazza Cavour, with its cafes and walkways. You could take a leisurely stroll around historic mansions such as Villa del Balbianello and Villa Carlotta, known for their beautiful gardens. Capture stunning images of the dramatic scenery surrounding the glacial lake that sits at the foothills of the Alps. Stop by the charming villages of Varenna and Bellagio to explore their cobblestone streets and quaint homes. You could also hop into a comfortable boat for a relaxed cruise around the lake. Watch out for glimpses of the opulent lakeside villas of celebrity owners such as George Clooney and Brad Pitt! (Self-explore Activity; Transfers, entrance fees and meals are not included; Choose what best suits your interests and pace from our recommendations; Please note that you may not be able to do all recommended activities)

Discover Villa Carlotta and Bellagio on this day tour. Accompanied by your guide, drive to Villa Carlotta, a mansion facing Bellagio Peninsula. Walk past manicured hedgerows and an opulent fountain, into the manor adorned with mosaic floors and ornate ceilings. Stroll through the rooms, which retain their original décor of silk wallpapers and antique Italian furnishings. Also on display are artworks by Hayez, Canova, Migliara and Thorvaldsen. Then, follow a winding path through the botanical gardens. See specimens ranging from camellias, cacti and azaleas to rhododendron, palms and bamboo. Leave Villa Carlotta and ride the ferry to the commune of Bellagio, the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’. Bellagio is known for its stunning scenery, waterfront promenade, shopping and fine dining. Climb a series of staircases to Via Garibaldi. Explore the area and stop at the 11th-century Basilica of Saint Giacomo, in Piazza della Chiesa. Treat yourself to lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel.

(Duration:8hrs; Private activity & transfers (public ferry ride is shared); Ferry & entry tickets are included; Meals included: no; Fitness level: easy-moderate, please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Operates subject to weather conditions)

Here are our recommendations on what to do in the Gulf of Tigullio: Discover the Riviera di Levante, known for its scenic fishing towns located along the Gulf of Tigullio. In Rapallo, stroll on the seaside promenade that skirts the crescent-shaped harbor, and explore its historical center. You could visit the Attilio and Cleofe Gaffoglio Museum and view the collections of gold, porcelain and ivory. At the Lace Museum, you will find 1,400 rare and precious lace artifacts on display. Next, head to Villa Durazzo-Centurions and the 16th-century castle in Santa Margherita Ligure, the pearl of Tigullio. Alternatively, travel to Portofino, stopping at Paraggi Bay along the way to check out pristine beaches. At Portofino, feast on fresh seafood at local restaurants such as Da i Gemelli al Molo. You could sample trofie pasta, Portofino-style, paired with Ligurian wine. Also visit Brown Castle, perched on a hill with panoramic views of the town. The ancient Church of San Martino is also worth a visit. Finally, you could explore the main square of La Piazzetta, perhaps followed by a sweet treat at the popular Gelateria Gepi. (This is an unguided, independent activity; Transfers, entrance fees & meals are not included; Choose from our recommendations what suits your interests & pace. Please note that you may not be able to do all our recommended activities)

Explore Cinque Terre, a string of five picturesque seaside villages perched on dramatic cliffs at the Italian Riviera. Meet your guide and drive to the marina, from where you will take the ferry to Cinque Terre. Sailing along the rugged coast, you will pass colorful buildings that cling to the cliffs and vineyards. See Monterosso, Vernazza, Manarola, Corniglia and Riomaggiore, the five colorful villages that make up Cinque Terre. At some of the settlements, you can disembark and explore on foot as well. Take in the natural landscape, the charming homes, and the quaint harbors filled with boats. Afterward, treat yourself to a lunch of fresh seafood, pasta and Genoese wines at one of the villages. As the tour wraps up, take the local train back to Santa Margherita Ligure, before driving back to your hotel.

(Duration:7hrs; Private activity; Shared transfers; Public ferry/train tickets included; Fitness level: moderate, please note that this tour is not suitable for those with mobility problems as you will need to be comfortable with steps, walking on uneven surfaces and embarking/disembarking the ferry; Please wear comfortable shoes and bring a light raincoat or umbrella depending on the weather).

Enjoy a walking tour of Florence and take in the sights. Meet your guide at your hotel and head out into the pedestrian-friendly city. Walk past the main square of Piazza della Repubblica, lined with restaurants and cafes. See the medieval Ponte Vecchio, over the Arno River, and learn more about the history and culture of Florence from your guide. At the Piazza della Signoria, take in the beautiful Renaissance buildings. Your guide will also point out the Basilica di Santa Croce, where Michelangelo and Galileo are buried, and the iconic Duomo. It is said that gelato was invented in Florence, and during this tour, you will make a stop to sample this delicious frozen dessert. Follow your guide to artisanal gelato shops, where you can feast on several flavors. (Duration:2 hrs; Time: evening; Private activity; No transfers; Meals included:gelato; Please inform us of any allergies in advance; Fitness level:moderate, please note that people with physical limitations can participate as long as they have someone to provide assistance; Please wear comfortable shoes)

Explore the Tuscan wine trail and discover the Super Tuscans on this leisurely tour. Set off in the morning and drive across the picturesque Chianti wine region comprising vineyards, olive groves and stately villas. Make stops at two famous wineries and an award-winning boutique winery. Find out how the excellent climatic conditions of the region and fertile soil are conducive to growing the best grapes for wines such as the famous Chianti. Learn to differentiate between wines based on their flavors and scent, under the guidance of an expert sommelier. Discover the Super Tuscans that each of the three wineries are famed for. A Super Tuscan is a signature product and a precious commodity that attests to the skills of the winemaker and his enologist. Taste the house wines at each of the wineries. On your way, stop by an iconic Tuscan village, where history comes alive amid charming cobblestone streets and ancient architecture. Discover the cultural heritage and unique atmosphere that define this timeless corner of Tuscany. Afterwards, settle down to relish a lunch featuring Tuscan specialties and local produce at the gourmet restaurant in the boutique winery. Your meal will be paired with the appropriate wine for a truly delicious experience.

(Duration: 6.6hrs; Seasonal: Apr – Oct; Time: 0930 hrs; Shared activity; Group size: max 8 ppl; No transfers to the meeting point; Starting point: Florencetown Booking Office, Piazza Mentana, 3, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy; Meals included: tastings & lunch; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy).

Experience the charms of Rome on this enjoyable walking tour. In the late evening, meet your guide and set off to explore the Spanish Steps. Take in its sloping staircase, and the illuminated Renaissance church of Trinita dei Monti towering above it. See the Trevi Fountain, made famous in the 1960 movie ‘La Dolce Vita’. You could throw a coin into the fountain before you make your way to the majestic Pantheon, once a temple devoted to pagan deities that now serves as a Christian basilica. Your last stop is the bustling Piazza Navona, surrounded by fountains, sculptures and beautiful palaces. Bernini’s ‘Fountain of Four Rivers’, the Obelisk of Domitian, and the Baroque church of Sant’Agnese in Agone are some of the prominent landmarks here. Along the way, make stops to sample local sweets or savory delicacies. After the tour winds up, make your way back to the hotel.

(Duration: 2.5 hrs; Time: 1930 hrs; Shared activity; Group size: max 12 ppl; No transfers; Starting point: in front of Hotel Hassler Piazza Trinità dei Monti; Meals included: tastings; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy; Please wear comfortable walking shoes; Headphones provided for groups of nine or more people; Do arrive at least 15 mins prior to departure time)

Discover the ancient monuments of the city with this interesting walking exploration. Set off with your knowledgeable guide for the open-air market at Piazza Campo de Fiori with its colorful displays of fruits, vegetables, crafts, and other items. Browse through the market as you take a short break before heading on to bustling Navona Square. Stroll around looking at the fountains, churches, and palaces around the square that are the works of famous artists such as Gian Lorenzo Bernini and Francesco Borromini. Walk on till you come upon the magnificent Pantheon, once a temple devoted to pagan deities that now serves as a Christian basilica. Saunter past Palazzo Madama, the seat of the Italian senate, and the Column of Marcus Aurelius constructed in honor of Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius. Leave behind Palazzo Montecitorio, the seat of the Italian Chamber of Deputies, as you make your way to the famous shopping street of Via Condotti with its exclusive boutiques. Amble to the end of the street to the iconic Trevi Fountain made famous by the 1960 movie La Dolce Vita. You could throw a coin into the fountain before heading on to the Spanish Steps with its sloping staircase and the elegant Barcaccia fountain. (Half Day; Private Activity; Your tour will begin at your hotel or at an agreed meeting point if the hotel is outside the walls; Fitness Level: Moderate. This is a walking tour, please wear comfortable shoes and clothing appropriate for church visits.)

Set off to explore the historic ruins of the UNESCO World Heritage site of Pompeii. Walk around the remnants of a civilization destroyed fully by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. See the awe-inspiring site of an ancient city frozen in time after it was buried under 13 to 20 feet (4 to 6 m) of volcanic ash and pumice. Accompany your guide cum archeologist around the western part of town as you listen to details about how life in this splendid city was before the tragedy. Wander among the ruins of important buildings such as the thermal baths, the Basilica, the bakery, the forum, and houses before you resume your onward journey. (En route Activity; Duration: 3 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy. Private English Speaking Guide & Entrance Fees included; Closed on 1 Jan, 1 May, 25 Dec)

Set off to explore the picturesque Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with this full-day tour of three major towns. Drive along the stunning cliffs with the ocean waves crashing at the bottom as you make your way to the charming town of Positano. Wander up the steep streets of the town that are home to numerous cafes and boutiques. Breathe in the aroma of freshly baked goodies as you make your way to the famous pebble stone beach which is also a favorite of celebrities. Resume your journey to the town of Amalfi that was at the heart of a powerful maritime republic from the 9th to the 11th century. Make use of the two hours on hand to see major landmarks such as the Byzantine cathedral and the maritime museum. Get back in the car and journey on to Ravello that perches up high along the coastline. Explore Villa Rufolo, a 13th-century mansion with exquisitely laid out gardens and panoramic views of the coast, that once inspired German opera composer Richard Wagner. Embark on the journey back to Sorrento along the coastal road that affords awe-inspiring views of the landscape. (Duration:8hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Easy; Private English Speaking Guide & Entrance Fees to Duomo Amalfi, Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo included.)

Embark on a fun-filled adventure from Piano di Sorrento port. Hop into a comfortable boat and sail along the picturesque coast of the Sorrento peninsula. Settle in as the boat slices through the water heading for iconic Capri island and its many caves, which are a snorkeler’s dream come true. Swim in the clear waters off the island. After you have enjoyed your journey on the sea, set off to explore the beautiful island at your own pace. Stroll around taking in the sights and splendid views for about four hours before returning to the boat. Back on the boat, sample a glass of limoncello, the local lemon liqueur, as you make your way back to Sorrento. (Duration:10hrs; Seasonal: Mar to Oct; Group Size: Max 12 guests; Snacks and Drinks Included; Shared Activity and Boat; Private Transfer to the Sorrento port; Fitness Level: Moderate; Min age 4; Do carry necessary medication if you are prone to seasickness; Boat type: max 5 ppl (Jeranto 750 or similar )/max 12 ppl (Jeranto 900 or similar); This tour is dependent on weather and sea conditions and can be canceled free of charge or rescheduled in case of bad weather)