Sign up to our newsletter and get our latest deals, offers and destination guides sent directly to your inbox.
Are you visiting our site from USA? Click to switch to the USA website
13 Days 1 Country 13 Cities
Departure date
Return date
There are no further dates to display
Soon, you'll be able to pre-register and be the first to hear of our next departures for this trip. Please check back at a later date.
Be the first to hear when we release new dates for this trip - just complete this form to get updates.
Please note, the itinerary, meals and highlights may have changed as a result of selecting a new date.
Please check these again before booking this date.
15 Days 1 Country 9 Cities
Departure date
Rome, Italy
Return date
Rome, Italy
Book and Pay By:
i Flights available
Early payment discount
Was: PP
Save: PP
Code: XXXXX
Extensions available for this trip
Secure your trip with a deposit today
Please read our Trip Notes before booking
This departure of Best of Italy is sold out. However, we have an alternative trip with a similar itinerary - take a look...
15 Days 1 Country 9 Cities
Departure date
Rome, Italy
Return date
Rome, Italy
Book and Pay By:
i Flights available
Early payment discount
Was: PP
Save: PP
Code: XXXXX
Extensions available for this trip
Secure your trip with a deposit today
Please read our Trip Notes before booking
Add a dash of 'issimo' to your love affair with Italy as you explore its captivating landscapes, culture, and the mouth-watering flavours that have inspired its residents to coin the phrase: "First we eat, then we do everything else..." Your Italian discovery made ever more delectable amidst the lemon scents of Sorrento, Renaissance romance in Florence and imposing Rome.
Trip type: Country Explorer i
Trip code: ITBO
accommodation
12 hot buffet breakfasts
7 dinners (including Be My Guest) with local wine
All transport shown.
What's Included
City tour in Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Assisi and Florence
Cruise to the beautiful Isle of Capri and by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice
Orientation of Venice and Milan
See the ancient sites of Rome including Circus Maximus
View the Benedictine Abbey in Monte Cassino, Juliet's Balcony in Verona, the Byzantine St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, the Gothic Cathedral and La Scala Opera House in Milan, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo in Florence
Visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museum, the Colosseum in Rome, the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Cassino, the excavations at Pompeii, St. Francis Basilica in Assisi, picturesque Lake Como and the medieval city of San Gimignano
What's Included
12 hot buffet breakfasts
7 dinners
(including Be My Guest) with local wine
What's Included
Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Hand-picked Insider Experiences
Optional Experiences and free time
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
VIP entry to many sights
Airport Transfers
Specific transfer information can be found on the airport transfers page
Best of Italy
Day 1
Arrive Rome (2 Nights) Day 1 - Arrive Rome (2 Nights)Ciao Roma! Explore this imperial city of emperors and senators, gods and goddesses, before joining your companions and Travel Director later for a Welcome Reception. Our introduction to the Eternal City is an evening orientation drive to view some of the sights which await you.
Hotel
Una/Victoria
Meals
Hotel
Una/Victoria
Meals
Day 2
Rome Sightseeing Day 2 - Rome SightseeingThe Holy See takes centre stage today as we join a Local Specialist for an included sightseeing tour in the fascinating Vatican Museums. Witness first-hand the masterpieces of Bramante and Michelangelo in a Cultural Insight, admiring the smooth, step-less staircase created for Pope Julius II in the early 16th century, the magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel Experience and the marble masterpiece of Pietà, housed in St. Peter's Basilica. We venture across the Tiber and into Ancient Rome to visit the famous Colosseum and see Circus Maximus, once the site of celebrated chariot races. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the city streets of Rome on your terms. Indulge in an espresso in beautiful Piazza Navona, clamber up the Spanish Steps, or wander through the colourful food market of Campo de' Fiori soaking up the enthusiasm of its lively vendors.
Meals
Meals
Optional Experiences
Piazzas and Fountains of Rome
Discover the most charming areas in the city with a Local Specialist. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and beautiful squares of Rome's historic centre, leading to highlights such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, as well as hidden corners of the Eternal City.
Adult Price: €33.00
Roman Evening with Dinner
Spend a light-hearted evening with us in Rome. Relax and enjoy typical Italian cuisine with drinks and music. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a drive and provide a glimpse into how Romans enjoy their city.
Adult Price: €61.00
Day 3
Rome – Cassino – Pompeii – Sorrento (2 Nights) Day 3 - Rome – Cassino – Pompeii – Sorrento (2 Nights)Today we pay tribute to the brave souls of the World War II Italian Campaign whose last resting place is the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Cassino. We view the Benedictine Abbey, which featured as the site of the Battle of Monte Cassino in 1944, before heading south to the well-preserved ruins of Pompeii. Here we join a Local Specialist who will share details of the devastation caused by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79 as we wander through the ancient paved roads of a city that was frozen in time. Later, we arrive at our hotel in the clifftop village of Sorrento where we will dine tonight.
Hotel
La Residenza/Johanna Park
Meals
Hotel
La Residenza/Johanna Park
Meals
Optional Experiences
Amalfi Coast and Positano
Come with us for a drive along the famous Amalfi Coast. You’ll have a chance to visit the exclusive artists’ paradise of Positano, which is magnificently positioned on the Mediterranean coast.
Adult Price: €43.00
Day 4
Isle of Capri Excursion Day 4 - Isle of Capri ExcursionWe cross the Bay of Naples today by ferry to the glamorous Isle of Capri where we will visit some of its landmark sights. Wander past the chic boutiques and pavement cafés in Capri Town in the company of a Local Specialist before taking your time to soak up the sophistication of this lovely island on your own terms. Later, we return to the mainland and enjoy a Cultural Insight into the intricate art of inlaid woodwork for which Sorrento is famous.
Meals
Meals
Optional Experiences
Neapolitan Dinner and Dance
Join us for an evening of Neapolitan specialities at one of our favourite family-run restaurants. While you’re wined and dined, enjoy a cultural experience performed by local artists who'll take centre stage and demonstrate the famous Tarantella dance.
Adult Price: €61.00
Discover The Isle Of Capri
Experience Capri's spectacular cliffs, famous turquoise waters and white grotto the best way: by boat. In Capri town, enjoy a lemon granita, a specialty of the island. Or if the weather doesn't allow, we'll take you on a tour of the island to Anacapri, and a visit to Villa San Michele.
Adult Price: €42.00
Sorrento Farmhouse Dinner
A scenic drive takes you through the Sorrentino countryside to an 18th century Olive Oil mill. You’ll enjoy a guided visit of the gardens, mill and wine cellar, followed by a simple meal of traditional pizza and wine. And there'll also be the chance to see how mozzarella and pizza are made.
Adult Price: €49.00
Day 5
Sorrento – Assisi Day 5 - Sorrento – AssisiHeading north to the slopes of Mount Subasio, we arrive in the mystical town of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, under whose protection this medieval city is said to remain. We join our Local Specialist on a walking tour along the cobblestone streets towards the Basilica of St. Francis, which we will have a unique opportunity to visit before spending the rest of the day exploring the town on our own terms. See the remnants of Roman heritage at the church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva and the Lion Fountain in the central piazza. Shop on Corza Mazzini or admire the beautiful façade of San Rufino Cathedral before dining at your hotel this evening.
Hotel
Cenacolo Authentic Accommodation
Meals
Hotel
Cenacolo Authentic Accommodation
Meals
Day 6
Assisi – Verona – Venice (2 Nights) Day 6 - Assisi – Verona – Venice (2 Nights)Fall in love with the Renaissance architecture and delicious flavours of Emiglia Romagna - indulging every sense on this journey through its glorious region that yields the much-loved Italian ingredients of tortellini, mortadella and parmesan cheese. The story of star-crossed lovers is celebrated during our stop in the exquisite city of Verona, where we will admire Juliet's Balcony, and the Roman arena, before arriving in Venice, the Queen of the Adriatic.
Hotel
Grande Albergo Ausonia & Hungaria Authentic Accommodation
Meals
Hotel
Grande Albergo Ausonia & Hungaria Authentic Accommodation
Meals
Optional Experiences
Gondolas and the Grand Canal
Join us for a scenic cruise by private water taxi along Venice's Grand Canal. You’ll admire the magnificent palazzi, as well as catching a glimpse of the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. Later on, you'll glide gracefully on a gondola along Venice’s dreamy, narrow waterways.
Adult Price: €70.00
Day 7
Venice Orientation Day 7 - Venice OrientationWind your way through Venice by private launch along the city's charming canals to soak up the unique sights and sounds of what was once one of the world's greatest ports. We venture to the island of Giudecca where talented tradesmen share their centuries-old glassmaking traditions in a Cultural Insight, before meandering through the domain of St. Mark to view the impressive square and Basilica that still bear his name. Our journey through Venice takes us past the opulent Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs, before an afternoon at leisure to wander across the ornate bridges that connect this island city. See the colourful fishermen's houses on the Island of Burano or perhaps stumble across a cosy bacaro for some tasty Venetian treats.
Meals
Meals
Optional Experiences
Venice's Secrets and St. Mark's Basilica
Explore the hidden maze of streets which make up this unique city as your Local Specialist gives you a fascinating insight into Venice's past and present. You’ll visit the majestic Basilica of St Mark, where you’ll have a chance to view some of the prized trophies looted by the Venetians in their rise to power. Alternatively, we’ll visit the outside terrace for exceptional vistas.
Adult Price: €36.00
Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks
Join us as we discover the Venetian Lagoon by private boat. You will enjoy a delicious meal with a selection of drinks on the fishermen's island of Burano, famous for its multi-coloured houses - a real photographer's paradise.
Adult Price: €71.00
Day 8
Venice – Milan – Lake Maggiore (2 Nights) Day 8 - Venice – Milan – Lake Maggiore (2 Nights)Today we cross the lush green plains of Lombardy to sophisticated Milan, the global capital of design and fashion. An orientation tour takes us past the intricate Gothic Duomo, La Scala Opera house and the famous Galleria, before we dinner served tonight at our hotel.
Hotel
Simplon
Meals
Hotel
Simplon
Meals
Optional Experiences
Treasures Of Milan
Join our Local Specialist at the impressive Castello Sforza museum, where you’ll see the 'Pieta of Rondanini' by Michelangelo, among other great works. Your tour finishes with a visit to the world renowned 'La Scala' opera house and museum. When La Scala or the Castello is unavailable, you’ll visit the Museum of Milan.
Adult Price: €45.00
Day 9
Lake Como Excursion Day 9 - Lake Como ExcursionThe glistening blue waters of Lake Como welcome us today, with free time to enjoy the lakeside lifestyle and beautiful scenery that has enchanted visitors for millennia. Spend the day exploring the picturesque little towns, indulge in the delicious gelato of the area or take the funiculare for spectacular views of the late. This evening we venture by private boat to an island on Lake Maggiore for an unforgettable Be My Guest dinner experience.
Meals
Meals
Optional Experiences
Discover The Borromean Islands
We've organised a private launch to take you to the beautiful islands of Lake Maggiore. Here you'll see the Isola Madre, the Isola dei Pescatori, and on the Isola Bella we visit the magnificent palace of the Borromean Princes (this optional is only operated between mid March and the end of October).
Adult Price: €42.00
Discover Lake Como
Enjoy views of elegant villas and gardens as you cruise with your Local Specialist along Lake Como, one of the most beautiful spots in the Italian Lake District.
Adult Price: €38.00
Day 10
Lake Maggiore – Pisa – Florence (2 Nights) Day 10 - Lake Maggiore – Pisa – Florence (2 Nights)The charm of Tuscany lures us across the forested Apennine Mountains, past Genoa to the famous city of Pisa and its Square of Miracles where we will enjoy an opportunity to view the Leaning Tower. Our next stop is Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance, where you will have an evening at leisure to indulge in the extraordinary tastes of Tuscany.
Hotel
Grand Mediterraneo/Adler Cavalieri
Meals
Hotel
Grand Mediterraneo/Adler Cavalieri
Meals
Optional Experiences
Dinner, Wine And Music In The Tuscan Hills
Join us for a scenic drive through the beautiful Tuscan countryside. We will enjoy a meal at a charming restaurant where a selection of regional favourites is served, accompanied by a selection of local wines and live music. A truly unforgettable experience, with an atmosphere that is the essence of all things Tuscan.
Adult Price: €64.00
Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli
A scenic drive into the Chianti hills, past vineyards, brings us to a delightful hamlet overlooked by an imposing castle. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the great political theorist wrote his immortal work, ‘The Prince’. After a welcome drink and visit of the villa and its wine-cellars, we'll enjoy the best of Tuscan cuisine accompanied by great music and drinks, including of course, Chianti from the Villa’s own vines. This is the essence of all great things Tuscan, past and present, condensed into one memorable evening!
Adult Price: €65.00
Day 11
Florence Sightseeing Day 11 - Florence SightseeingDelve into the extravagant legacy of the de' Medici and the glory of a city whose exquisite art and architecture is explored in the company of a Local Specialist. The elegant Duomo dominates the skyline as we visit Piazza della Signoria with its exquisite statues and palazzi. Enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the beautiful skyline of Florence and the 400-year-old Ponte Vecchio from Piazzale Michelangelo, perhaps stopping for a taste of the rich hot chocolate for which the city is so famous. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through the picture-perfect streets of this Renaissance capital, viewing its masterpieces or shopping for high-quality leather and gold.
Meals
Meals
Optional Experiences
Michelangelo's 'David' & Accademia
Enjoy an insight into the world of Michelangelo and his masterpiece, David. We have fast track entry to the Academy of Fine Arts and its Michelangelo collection, where you’ll learn all about the life and works of this immortal Renaissance genius through the expert commentary of our Local Specialist.
Adult Price: €41.00
Day 12
Florence – San Gimignano – Rome Day 12 - Florence – San Gimignano – RomeThis morning we visit the charming Tuscan hill town of San Gimignano, within whose colourful city walls are extraordinary examples of medieval architecture and history. Venture to the centre of town to view its Piazza del Duomo, surrounded by thousand-year-old towers and ramble along the town's 13th century city walls. We head back to Rome this evening for a Farewell Dinner spent in the company of newfound friends and our Travel Director.
Hotel
Sheraton Parco De Medici
Meals
Hotel
Sheraton Parco De Medici
Meals
Day 13
Depart Rome Day 13 - Depart RomeOur discovery of the best of Italy has sadly come to an end. Transfers are available to Rome Fiumicino Airport. Conditions apply.
Meals
Meals
Authentic Accommodation
Built to welcome pilgrims visiting Assisi, Hotel Cenacolo is a fully renovated old Franciscan convent in nearby Santa Maria degli Angeli. Enjoy a stay at the romantic Grande Albergo Ausonia & Hungaria which opened in 1907 on the exclusive Lido di Venezia
Be My Guest
Join Signor Telli for an exclusive dinner and 'bei tempi' at his family run restaurant on the secluded Isola Madre island on Lake Maggiore
Cultural Insights
Follow in the footsteps of Michelangelo when visiting the Vatican Museums. Ascend the smooth and stepless spiral staircase designed by famous architect Donato Bramante, in a part of the Vatican not open to the public. Witness the exquisite craft of glassblowing on Giudecca Island, a delicate tradition that generations of Venetian craftsmen have perfected over the centuries
Hidden Treasures
Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Local Specialists
For included sightseeing in Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Assisi and Florence
Find out what makes Trafalgar different.
Click here to see other trip recommendations
What's Included
City tour in Rome, Pompeii, Capri, Assisi and Florence
Cruise to the beautiful Isle of Capri and by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice
Orientation of Venice and Milan
See the ancient sites of Rome including Circus Maximus
View the Benedictine Abbey in Monte Cassino, Juliet's Balcony in Verona, the Byzantine St. Mark's Basilica in Venice, the Gothic Cathedral and La Scala Opera House in Milan, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the Duomo in Florence
Visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, Vatican Museum, the Colosseum in Rome, the Commonwealth War Cemetery in Cassino, the excavations at Pompeii, St. Francis Basilica in Assisi, picturesque Lake Como and the medieval city of San Gimignano
What's Included
12 hot buffet breakfasts
7 dinners
(including Be My Guest) with local wine
What's Included
Audio Headsets for flexible sightseeing
Daily breakfast and an average of 50% of evening meals
Luxury air-conditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Hand-picked Insider Experiences
Optional Experiences and free time
All porterage and restaurant gratuities
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
VIP entry to many sights
Airport Transfers
Specific transfer information can be found on the airport transfers page
Why Trafalgar?
Simply Authentic
EnjoyEnjoy the wonder of travel, crisscrossing the globe through the seasons. On effortless adventures in breathtaking new horizons, forge lifelong friendships and memories. Our lovingly crafted itineraries are a fascinating mosaic of cultures, flavours, festivals and local stories. We’re with you all the way, guiding you and ensuring you experience the real thing: the sheer love of travel, entirely hassle-free.
Simply Authentic
Love... Travel"Is simply the best way to position what our guests love to experience and what we love to deliver" - Gavin Tollman CEO
Simply Authentic
MeetMeet warm-hearted locals and like-minded travellers. Along your journey of discovery, stop to share stories and flavours with local farmers, chefs and winemakers. Pause to admire the handicrafts and rich traditions of amazing artisans. Explore the essence of Europe through captivating accounts shared by expert historians and savvy local guides.
Simply Authentic
TasteTravelling with your tastebuds, treating them to new flavours, spices and textures along the way. From the very first breakfast to the last nightcap, travelling through Europe indulges your palate, with every meal an opportunity to discover regional fare. Savour each new flavour, try the local tipple and take home fresh culinary inspiration. Let us share our love for food and hospitality with you.
Simply Authentic
UnwindOnce you've packed your suitcase, we take care of the rest, removing all your concerns so that you can be secure in the knowledge that an award-winning global company with an impeccable reputation has taken care of every little detail. We arrange everything you'll need along your journey - meals, accommodation and travel logistics, because we are with you all the way. Travel the world with peace of mind, knowing you’re in the hands of Trafalgar.
Best of Italy