Day 1: Travel to Italy
Depart Toronto on an overnight flight to Venice.
Stay:
N/A (on the plane)
Day 2: Arrive in Italy
Arrive in Venice mid-morning and transfer to your hotel. In the afternoon, meet your local guide for a walking tour that reveals the magic of Venice, affectionately known as La Serenissima. Discover both iconic landmarks and hidden corners as you gain a fascinating introduction to the city’s history, culture, and unique character. Conclude the tour with a serene gondola ride, gliding through the city’s romantic canals, an unforgettable way to experience Venice from the water. The evening is free to unwind, explore at your own pace, or dine in one of the city’s charming local restaurants.
Stay:
Hotel Principe or similar, Venice, IT (2 nights)
Meals: B (on plane)
Day 3: Free day in Venice
Enjoy a free day in Venice to wander its canals, discover hidden gems, or simply soak in its unforgettable charm. In the evening, meet the group for an included welcome dinner.
Meals: B, D
Day 4: Florence
After breakfast, board the high-speed train to Florence, the Cradle of the Renaissance. Upon arrival, embark on a guided walking tour that brings the city’s artistic spirit and timeless beauty to life. Stroll through historic streets, learn how Florence has shaped the course of art and culture, and take in the atmosphere of a city where masterpieces and grand architecture are an everyday part of the scenery.
Stay:
Hotel San Gallo or similar, Florence, IT (3 nights)
Meals:
B
Day 5: Tuscany Region
After breakfast, your Tuscan adventure begins. Enjoy a full-day guided excursion through the region’s picturesque countryside and charming medieval towns. Travel through the rolling hills of Chianti, where vineyards and cypress-lined lanes create classic Tuscan scenery, and savour a traditional lunch with wine tasting at a family-owned estate. Continue to the hilltop town of San Gimignano, once home to 72 medieval towers, 14 of which still stand today, and enjoy free time to explore its shops and atmospheric streets before returning to your hotel for a free night.
Meals:
B
Day 6: Free day in Florence
Today, wander the city’s historic streets at your own pace, marvel at its magnificent architecture, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere of piazzas and cafés. You might choose to explore renowned art, browse charming boutiques, or discover hidden corners off the beaten path. The day is yours to experience Florence as you wish, whether indulging in its culture, cuisine, or simply savouring the city’s timeless charm.
Meals:
B
Day 7: Naples & Pompeii
Get an early start with a high-speed train ride to Naples. After approximately three hours, arrive in the city and transfer to the Archaeological Park of Pompeii. Wander through the remarkably preserved streets, homes, and public spaces of this ancient Roman city, while your expert guide brings to life the dramatic story of its destruction by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD. Explore temples, villas, and frescoed walls that offer a vivid glimpse into daily life nearly two thousand years ago. After the tour, continue along the scenic route to your hotel in Sorrento, where you can unwind and enjoy the stunning views of the Bay of Naples.
Stay:
Hotel Giosue a Mare or similar, Sorrento, IT (3 nights)
Meals:
B
Day 8: Island of Capri
Embark on a full-day adventure to the enchanting Isle of Capri. From the Sorrento pier, set sail to the island and arrive at the picturesque port of Marina Grande. Cruise along the coastline, taking in dramatic cliffs, natural arches, grottos, and landmarks such as Tiberius’ Leap and Punta Carena Lighthouse. Weather permitting, you may also visit the famous Blue Grotto (entry not included). Afterwards, travel up to Ana Capri and the lively Piazzetta, where free time allows you to savour the island’s chic atmosphere and breathtaking views. Return to Sorrento for a free evening.
Meals:
B
Day 9: Amalfi Coast
Set out for a full-day cruise and tour along the stunning Amalfi Coast, beginning with a transfer to the Port of Sorrento. Sail along the dramatic coastline from Sorrento to Amalfi, passing through Positano, the “Pearl of the Coast”. Pause here to explore its charming streets, browse the colourful boutiques, and enjoy lunch near the marina. In the early afternoon, continue to Amalfi, another jewel of the coastline, with its striking Cathedral of Sant’Andrea overlooking the bay and hillside houses cascading toward the sea. Return to Sorrento at sunset and settle in for an overnight stay at your hotel.
Meals:
B
Day 10: Rome Hop-on/Hop-off Bus Pass
After breakfast, take a private transfer to Naples train station and board the high-speed train to Rome. Upon arrival in the Eternal City, explore at your own pace with a 24hrs Hop-On Hop-Off bus ticket, enjoying panoramic views of iconic sights.
Stay:
Hotel Saint John or similar, Rome, IT (3 nights)
Meals:
B
Day 11: Rome, Entry to the Vatican or the Colosseum
Today, choose between two iconic experiences: visit the Vatican Museums to explore centuries of artistic treasures, including Michelangelo’s Last Judgment in the Sistine Chapel, or discover the Colosseum, immersing yourself in the history of ancient Rome. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner in the vibrant Trastevere neighbourhood, a bohemian quarter across the Tiber known for its lively atmosphere and artistic charm, a perfect way to experience una serata romana (a Roman evening).
Meals:
B, D
Day 12: Fly Home
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your mid-morning flight. Take with you the memories of Italy’s art, history, and breathtaking landscapes as you journey home.
Meals:
B
