Culinary Gems of Italy

Itinerary Summary

Day	Place	Highlights	Hotel Options
1 - 3	Venice	St. Mark’s Basilica & Square, Palazzo Ducale, Grand Canal	Hotel Da Bruno, Ca Maria Adele
3 - 7	Florence	Renaissance History, Ponte Vecchio, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Uffizi Gallery & Galleria dell’Accademia	Palazzo Castri 1874, Portrait Firenze
7 - 9	Rome	St. Peter’s Basilica, Colosseum, Trevi Fountain	Hotel degli Aranci, Donna Camilla Savelli
9 - 12	Sorrento	Bay of Naples, Baroque Architecture & Cobbled Alleys, Artisanal Crafts & Shops, Lemon Groves	Hotel del Corso, Maison la Minervetta

Itinerary Details

Day 1 - 3

International Arrival

You will be transferred from Venice airport to your hotel in a water taxi

Venice

2 Days

Venice automatically features among the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world! From stunning palaces by the Grand Canal to paintings of Renaissance masters on the city’s many churches, and the Teatro la Fenice’s ornate setting with its gilded boxes, Venice is all about the celebration of rich cultural treasures

Included Activities

Comprehensive Walking Tour of Venice
Head out from your hotel with your expert guide on an engrossing walking tour of this beautiful city on the water. Admire the stunning beauty of the majestic Italo-Byzantine Saint Mark’s Basilica from outside before you step inside for a closer look at its magnificent altar, the Pala d’oro, which is decorated with thousands of sparkling gems and precious stones. Stroll around the bustling city square known for its architectural beauty and historic past. Soak in the old world charm of iconic monuments such as the Doge’s Palace that has been the seat of Venetian political power for centuries. Walk over the many stone footbridges that have withstood the travails of time and now make for great photo opportunities. Listen to your guide narrate interesting anecdotes and lesser-known facts about the rich past of this illustrious city that has inspired many an author and artist. (Half Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate.)

Gastronomic Tour of Venice
After a short stroll around dusk, treat yourselves to a quintessential Venetian experience at the bustling bacari dotted across the city. Accompanied by an expert guide, get introduced to Venice’s food culture and at these hidden wine bars, believed to have originated in the 1300s. Enjoy a Cicchetti (the typical small snacks served in Venice) crawl while navigating the maze of back alleys dotted across residential neighborhoods surrounding the historic Rialto bridge. Before setting out for dinner, soak up the lively atmosphere of this Venetian institution, interacting with residents around oak barrels that serve as tables. Rubbing shoulders with Veneziano speaking locals, join in on this early evening phenomenon, hopping between cozy watering holes characterized by quirky and funky décor. Dig into an assortment of traditional Cicchetti that make up the daily-changing, seasonal menus, all paired with ombras – small glasses of organic house wines, or spritz concoctions. Expect to taste bite-sized sandwiches, fresh seafood, deep-fried cheeses, artichoke hearts, pickled specialties, and artisanal cold cuts. (Half Day; Time: 1600 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Snacks and wine included; Fitness level: Easy. Please note that pick-up & drop-off will be at a centrally located hotel).

Hotel Options

Hotel Da Bruno – Opt 1

Room	Double Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Ca Maria Adele – Opt 2

Room	Deluxe Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Day 3 - 7

You will be transferred from your hotel to Venice train station in a water taxi

Board your train from Venice to Florence (Duration: 2.5 hrs)

You will be transferred from the Florence train station to your hotel in a private vehicle

Florence

4 Days

This rich capital of Tuscany, by the River Arno, is home to some of Europe’s most priceless treasures. Leonardo da Vinci’s Annunciation, Michelangelo’s David and Sandro Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus are among the many masterpieces that adorn this birthplace of the Renaissance.

Included Activities

Historic City Tour with Medici Villas
Set off from your centrally located hotel on this private tour of the historic attractions in and around the city. Drive out to the famous Medici villas that sit tucked into the lush hillside. Once the tranquil refuge of royal members of the Medici dynasty that reigned over the city, these luxurious country manors are today a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll around the beautiful Italian style gardens and admire the elegant interiors featuring period furniture and furnishings in plush fabrics that were popular in a bygone era. Head out to Michelangelo’s square to savor fabulous views of the city. Afterward, choose to get dropped back at your hotel or alight in the historic center. You could then saunter around the cobblestone pathways that wind across the old part of town. Soak in the historic ambiance and get a glimpse of famous landmarks such as the medieval Ponte Vecchio stone bridge. (Half Day; Time: 0900/1400 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate. Please wear comfortable shoes. You could also bring a light raincoat or umbrella depending on the weather.)

Chianti Region Tour with Village Visit
Get picked up from your centrally located hotel as you embark on this exploration of the famous Chianti region. Drive to one of the acclaimed DOCG (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin) areas, with the highest classification of quality when it comes to Italian wines. Travel along the renowned Chiantigiana wine route that will take you into the heart of vineyard country known for its Chianti Classico. Pass by verdant vineyards and olive groves that make for a scenic picture. Drive through charming country towns such as Greve, a household name across the world because of the excellent wines they produce. Keep an eye out for the famous symbol of the Gallo Nero (black rooster), synonymous with Chianti wine, which is prominently displayed in the villages of this region. Stop to explore one such typical Chianti village where you can saunter around the gourmet and souvenir shops. You can also ask your driver to lead you to one of the local wineries for a tasting session before being dropped back at your hotel. (Half Day; Time: 0900/1400 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate. Please wear comfortable shoes. You could also bring a light raincoat or umbrella depending on the weather. Wine tasting session can be included at an additional cost.)

Truffle Hunting and Tasting Tour
Get picked up from your centrally located hotel as you embark on this interesting excursion in search of truffles. Head to the Tuscan hills where you will accompany an expert truffle-gatherer and his loyal dog in this hunt for prized white truffles. Watch the skilled dog harness its instincts and follow it into the woods to unearth this hidden treasure. Learn all about the traditions and legends related to these tubers, also known as white gold. Walk out of the woods to a truffle factory where you will learn all about the techniques of processing truffle for use in delicious meals. Enjoy a tasting lunch at the factory featuring this premium ingredient and relish the earthy flavor that is unique to truffles. After you wind up your tour, get dropped back at your hotel with memories of a lifetime. (Full Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Lunch Included; Fitness Level: Moderate. Please wear comfortable shoes. You could also bring a light raincoat or umbrella depending on the weather.)

Hotel Options

Palazzo Castri 1874 – Opt 1

Room	Classic Double
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Portrait Firenze – Opt 2

Room	Portrait Studio
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Day 7 - 9

You will be transferred from your hotel to Florence train station in a private vehicle

Board your train from Florence to Rome (Duration: 1.5 hrs)

You will be transferred from the Rome train station to your hotel in a private vehicle

Rome

2 Days

The ancient capital of Rome is a cosmopolitan city today with over 3,000 years of history, culture and architecture. While St. Peter’s Basilica towers over the landscape, Michelangelo’s priceless frescos guard the walls of the Sistine Chapel and priceless art and architecture are seen around every corner.

Included Activities

Tastes of Trastevere
Begin your day’s food adventures at the bustling open-air Campo dei Fiori market, browsing the plethora of local produce. Next, visit the atmospheric Jewish ghetto, which has been inhabited since the 2nd century BC. Pass by various landmarks, including the cat colony at the ruins of Largo de Torre Argentina, and the colonnaded Portico of Octavia, which housed a historic fish market. Drop by the characteristic kosher restaurants to savor the regional specialty of fried artichokes. Later, cross Rome’s oldest standing stone footbridge across the Tiber river, briefly pausing on Tiber Island. Explore the vibrant bohemian neighborhood of Trastevere as buskers entertain with diverse music. Strolling the medieval maze of back alleys, see crumbling buildings with fading facades adorned with creepers and graffiti and balconies filled with geranium blooms. Bite into takeaway pizza slices prepared in wood-fired ovens, and sip on local craft beers as you marvel at the many Renaissance villas and baroque palaces scattered across town. Walking back, finish off with a couple of scoops of artisanal gelatos at an independent ice-cream shop! (Half Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Snacks and wine included; Fitness level: Easy; Please note that pick-up & drop-off will be at a centrally located hotel. Please wear comfortable walking shoes).

Treasures of Ancient Rome
Marvel at the Colosseum – a symbol of the mighty Roman Empire, which was witness to brutal games between gladiators and wild animals, centuries ago. Accompanied by your expert historian, learn about the Colosseum’s fine engineering, which is a testament to the advanced technology of the Romans. Admiring the majestic architecture, see 80 entrances built for easy access, and a sophisticated system of aqueducts and water fountains to serve the spectators. Observe the carved Tuscan, Ionian, and Corinthian columns that adorn the multiple stories. Exploring various features including the Arena Floor, get a sense of how swords clashed, crowds cheered, and emperors entertained. Walk under the Arch of Constantine, and stroll about the expansive Roman Forum, where modern democracy is believed to have taken shape. Finally, head to Palatine Hill, one among Rome’s seven hills, a site of ancient legends, considered to be the birthplace of its founders Romulus and Remus. Standing amid wildflowers of the Farnese Gardens, enjoy panoramic vistas of surrounding landmark ruins, and the Tiber river beyond. (Half Day; Time: 0900 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Moderate; Please wear comfortable walking shoes. Please note that pick-up & drop-off will be at a centrally located hotel.).

Hotel Options

Hotel degli Aranci – Opt 1

Room	Double Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Donna Camilla Savelli – Opt 2

Room	Superior Double Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

Day 9 - 12

You will be transferred from your hotel to Rome train station in a private vehicle

Board your train from Rome to Naples (Duration: 1.25 hrs)

You will be transferred from the Naples train station to your Sorrento hotel in a private vehicle

Sorrento

3 Days

Sorrento is a beautiful coastal town overlooking the Bay of Naples. Celebrated for its high cliffs and panoramic views of the Mediterranean coast, there’s much to savor of the town’s heritage architecture and laid back pace of the good life.

Included Activities

Explore the Ruins of Pompeii
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; Half Day; Duration: 2 hrs; Fitness Level: Easy.)

Amalfi Coast Lemon Tour and Tasting
Get picked up from your hotel as you set off on this unique tour of lemon groves along the Amalfi Coast. Accompany your knowledgeable guide among the fragrant lemon trees as you sip on a refreshing welcome drink. Walk to the collection center where you can see how the finest lemons are selected and processed into a variety of products. Stop by the cozy Terra di Limoni craft distillery to get a closer look at the techniques used to produce excellent limoncello, the region’s famous lemon liqueur. Tantalize your taste buds as you sample the exotic concoction, savoring its unique flavor. Enjoy lunch on a breezy terrace along with splendid ocean views. Relish a range of delicacies with lemon flavors as you listen to your guide enumerate the many therapeutic benefits and culinary uses of this tangy fruit. Return to your hotel with a small souvenir of your enjoyable excursion. (Full Day; Welcome Drink and Lunch Included; Private Activity and Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate.)

Excursion to Capri Island
Start early from the port of Sorrento as you head out on this enjoyable exploration of the vibrant island of Capri. Feel the Mediterranean breeze as you travel on a jet boat to the island located in the Gulf of Naples. Soak in the beauty of the rugged landscape as you listen to your knowledgeable guide speak about the history of this island of dreams. Saunter through the alleyways that wind amid the whitewashed buildings stopping to discover the many attractions of this resort town. Head to Anacapri town, situated at a higher elevation than the rest of the island, to savor panoramic views of your surroundings. After you have explored to your heart’s content, return to the port for the journey back to Sorrento. (Full Day; Time: 0800 hrs; Shared Activity and Transfers; Fitness Level: Moderate.)

Hotel Options

Hotel del Corso – Opt 1

Room	Standard Room
Meals	Breakfast
Style	International

Maison la Minervetta – Opt 2

Room	Deluxe Sea View
Meals	Breakfast
Style	Boutique

You will be transferred from your hotel to Naples airport in a private vehicle

International Departure

Price & Inclusions

Option 1 From $ 5,390 /person
Option 2 From $ 9,290 /person

Prices are in USD and exclude international flights. This trip price is based on low season rates for accommodation and other applicable services, and may change depending on availability, currency fluctuations and number of people traveling together. For high season prices, please contact us with your exact travel dates and preferences.

Price Includes

Accommodation in one double room for 12 days / 11 nights.
Meals as indicated
The following train journeys in the highest class available :
- Venice – Florence
- Florence – Rome
- Rome – Naples
All activities as listed :
- Venice: Comprehensive Walking Tour of Venice
- Venice: A Gastronomic Tour of Venice
- Florence: Historic City Tour With Medici Villas
- Florence: Chianti Region Tour With Village Visit
- Florence: Truffle Hunting and Tasting Tour
- Rome: Tastes of Trastevere
- Rome: Treasures of Ancient Rome
- Sorrento: Explore the Ruins of Pompeii
- Sorrento: Amalfi Coast Lemon Tour and Tasting
- Sorrento: Enjoyable Excursion to Capri Island
All activities specified in the itinerary including transfers and entrance fees unless otherwise specified
Your Trip Coordinator: a 24/7 point of contact, supporting you during your trip
Welcome kit including all important documents and information regarding your itinerary
All airport and hotel transfers as indicated above

Not Included

Tips, additional meals and personal expenses
Visa fees
Travel, health and cancellation insurance
International airfare (from your home country to your destination and return)

Itinerary Summary

Ideal For

Itinerary Details

Venice

Florence

Rome

Sorrento

Price & Inclusions

Price Includes

Not Included