Northern Italy Encompassed

Rome - Orvieto - Bologna. We leave Rome's hustle and bustle for the serene charm of Orvieto, known for its traffic-free streets and exquisite wines. Visit the vibrant cathedral and explore at your own pace. Next, venture through Parco Naturale Le Balze, a landscape that inspired Leonardo da Vinci, with striking balze rock formations, sulphur streams, and stunning vistas.

We make a lunch stop in the quaint hamlet of Piantravigne, offering authentic Italian cuisine. Satisfied and reinvigorated, we continue our journey to the enchanting city of Bologna, where we spend the night.

Please note: Pick up point for this tour is at 8:15 on day 1 (tour departs at 8:30) - Rome Pick Up, Hotel American Palace, Rome.

Bologna - Ravenna - Bologna. In the morning, we embark on a half-day trip to Ravenna, renowned for its mosaic masterpieces and unique blend of early Christian and Byzantine architecture. With eight UNESCO-listed sites, it's an unforgettable destination and the final resting place of Dante Alighieri.

After lunch, we return to Bologna, and the afternoon is at leisure. This Renaissance city, a hub of art and intellectual innovation, boasts the western world's oldest university. Stroll along the extensive UNESCO-listed porticos, uncover the university's secrets, or savour the flavours of Ragu alla Bolognese.

Bologna - Po Delta - Padua. It's time for a sun-soaked adventure as we begin in Porto Tolle. There is an optional boat trip along the Po Delta. The Po is Italy's longest river, which offers a chance to spot rare migratory birds - lunch is provided on this optional trip. Returning to solid ground, we journey to Este, a picturesque town with a 3,000-year history. Here we enjoy free time to stroll along city walls or visit the moated Medieval castle.

Next, we head to Padua, believed to be Italy's oldest city, where we stay for three nights. This city at the intersection of science and religion is home to the revered St. Anthony's tomb and was a hub of Renaissance-era scientific breakthroughs.

Padua - Venice - Padua. Today, we explore Venice, known as 'the Floating City,' with its 177 canals, 350 gondoliers, and unparalleled cityscape.

Venice's history is rich with wealth, trade, and power. Built on 118 islands, it hosts world-famous festivals and boasts a unique painting style and architecture, making it a Renaissance masterpiece on par with Rome and Florence. Upon arrival, we enjoy a two-hour guided walking tour, taking in highlights such as St Mark's Square. There is then free time for you to further explore at your own pace. From an excursion on one of the city's famous gondolas, to exploring renowned galleries, use this time as you wish. In the early evening, we return to Padua.

Padua - Valdobbiadene - Padua. Our first stop of the day is Villa Pisani, where we explore fantastic art exhibitions within this prime example of late baroque architecture. This grand estate was once owned by Napoleon, who gifted it to his stepson. Entrance to Villa Pisani is included. Next, we head to Valdobbiadene, where we can savour the region's finest prosecco. An exclusive optional tasting awaits, promising the freshest prosecco you've ever experienced.

Our indulgent journey continues in Bassano del Grappa, offering a chance to sample sweet and potent Grappa. If you've had your fill of spirits, admire the castle and the town's famous old bridge instead. Our day concludes as we return to Padua for your final evening in this historic town.

Padua - Verona - Garda - Milan. We begin our day with a visit to Verona, the backdrop of famous William Shakespeare play, Romeo and Juliet. Spend time reminiscing at the famous balcony, marvel at a grand Roman Colosseum, and stroll through ancient piazzas at your leisure. Next, we head to Lake Garda, cherished by artists, poets, and travellers for its crystal-clear waters and Dolomite vistas since Roman times. Take in the incredible views of this Italian lake before we continue to Milan.

Today is free to embrace Milan's art, fashion, and cuisine. When it comes to art, da Vinci's Last Supper is a must. This enigmatic piece of work attracts many visitors, so book your tickets in advance. There's also the magnificent Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece and one of the biggest churches in Italy. Experience the city's fashion culture with a stroll through Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II or Quadrilatero della Moda, the home of the most luxurious brands. The we can join the locals in the aperitivo tradition, savouring the moment before our next adventure.

Please note: In Milan, some members of your group may be ending their tour, and others may join. You may also meet a new guide for the next part of your trip, and change vehicle.

Milan - Cinque Terre - La Spezia. We depart Milan early this morning, making our way to La Spezia, a charming port town serving as the gateway to the stunning Cinque Terre area. After checking in at the hotel, our guide will accompany us on a brief train journey to the first of the picturesque seaside towns. From there, we are free to explore for the afternoon and evening.

Each of these towns has its own unique charm. If you crave beaches and a scenic seafront promenade, head to Monterosso. Wine enthusiasts will find Manarola perfect, with the opportunity to savour its local wines. And for those seeking breathtaking views, consider visiting one of this fantastic trio: Riomaggiore, Vernazza, or Corniglia.

After exploring Cinque Terre, we board the train back to La Spezia, where we spend the night.

La Spezia - Pisa - Lucca - Florence. Departing La Spezia in the morning, our first stop is Pietrasanta, where Michelangelo once selected the finest marble for his sculptures. Next, we head to Pisa, where you'll have a couple of hours to explore the city which is globally renowned for the intriguing Leaning Tower of Pisa. Despite its tilt, the tower showcases exquisite Romanesque architecture and a captivating history. Enjoy lunch and take in the views of other architectural marvels at Campo dei Miracoli (Field of Miracles).

Our Italian adventure continues in Lucca, celebrated for its remarkably preserved city walls. You'll have a couple of hours to stroll along the city walls and explore its charming squares before we continue our journey.

These architectural wonders are a prelude to what awaits in Florence where we're based for the next two nights.

Enjoy a free day in the "Birthplace of the Renaissance," where you have the freedom to choose your activities. Marvel at the awe-inspiring Duomo, the city's iconic Cathedral dominating the skyline. Explore the Uffizi Gallery to see masterpieces like "The Birth of Venus," (we recommend you book in advance!) and visit the Galleria dell'Accademia to admire Michelangelo's masterpiece, David. Of course, Florence offers more than just art. Sample local delicacies like handmade pasta, pizza, pastries, wine, and gelato to refuel.

In the afternoon, you could uncover the power and secrets of the Medici family as you explore Palazzo Pitti, their grand palace housing some of the Renaissance's greatest treasures. To cap off your day, visit the enchanting Boboli Gardens, adorned with statues, fountains, ponds, and hidden mazes. It's your second night in Florence, so savour the evening by immersing yourself in the lively squares, excellent restaurants, and bars.

Florence - San Gimignano - Siena - Montepulciano. Bid farewell to Florence as we embark on a journey to explore Tuscany's enchanting medieval hill-towns. Travelling through the lush hills of the renowned Chianti wine region, we will be captivated by the 14 soaring towers of San Gimignano. Learn about the noble families which raced to build the tallest tower houses and savour local delicacies during a leisurely lunch.

Continuing south, we arrive at the day's highlight: Siena, a breathtaking red-brick city renowned for its Gothic architecture. The heart of Siena lies within the unique shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, this iconic square featured in James Bond's 'Quantum of Solace' chase scene. Our journey then winds along scenic country roads, until we reach Montepulciano in the early evening. This charming hilltop town in rural Tuscany will be our home for the next two nights.

Montepulciano - Pienza - Montepulciano. Today, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of UNESCO-listed Val d'Orcia, where time seems to stand still. We begin our day with a self-guided exploration of Montepulciano, then journey to Pienza, a jewel of urban design and UNESCO World Heritage Site, often referred to as the 'Ideal City.' Next, we indulge in an included wine tasting at Montalcino's Solaria Winery, renowned for producing Brunello, a coveted red wine with protected status.

Concluding our Val d'Orcia exploration, we visit Bagno Vignoni, renowned for its therapeutic hot springs. Today, you can admire this ancient spa and trace the flow of spring waters through the archaeological park. After savouring the best of rural Tuscany, we return to Montepulciano in the early evening for our second night.

Montepulciano - The Maremma - Rome. In the morning, we depart from Tuscany and head south to the captivating Maremma region. Here, you'll have the opportunity to delve into Etruscan history at the Sovana Necropolis and the Vie Cave, a remarkable network of roads carved from tuff during the Bronze Age. Afterward, explore the medieval town of Sovana, grab a bite to eat, and soak in its unique atmosphere.

In the afternoon, our journey continues towards Capodimonte, a charming town nestled on the shores of Bolsena Lake. This marks our final stop for relaxation, so take in the charms of this picturesque hamlet before our last leg of the journey to Rome.

Please note: This tour finishes at 18:30 - Rome Drop Off, Hotel American Palace, Rome.