Grand Tour of Italy

Day 1  Lake Garda    
Arrive into Verona and take your private transfer to your hotel on the shores of blissful Lake Garda. An inspiration to generations of artists and poets, the lake’s beauty is legendary, boasting diverse landscapes from dramatic peaks in the north to picturesque, pebble beaches and olive groves in the south.  

Days 2-3  Lake Garda
Take two full days to explore the stunning countryside and pretty, lakeside towns of Lake Garda. There’s plenty to occupy your time; hike along scenic walking trails beside the lake if you’re feeling active, or perhaps visit the enchanting town of Sirmione, home to an attractive, waterfront promenade and an intriguing mix of history from Roman ruins to a medieval castle. You can spend time relaxing in the peaceful grounds of your hotel and make sure to experience Garda’s spectacular natural beauty from the water on one of the many boat trips across the lake. Each evening, take the opportunity to sample delicious Italian cuisine and the exquisite, local wines.  

Day 4  Lake Garda to Verona
This morning, take a private transfer back to Verona and check into your hotel before heading out to explore the city. Verona is best known as the literary home of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers and boasts the famous Casa di Giulietta, complete with Juliet’s iconic balcony. Later on, delve into the city’s ancient history at its well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, which dates back to the 1st Century, or perhaps enjoy a stroll along the Adige River.  

Day 5  Verona to Venice  
This morning, catch your train to Venice and make your way to your hotel in the heart of this romantic city. Spend the rest of the day discovering its labyrinth of canals and quaint, cobbled alleys, admiring the Venetian mansions teetering on the water’s edge and perhaps treat yourself to some sweet Italian gelato.  

Day 6  Venice
Join your included walking tour this morning to discover Venice’s highlights. You’ll start in the magnificent St Mark’s Square to visit its elegant basilica and admire the venerable Palazzo Ducale. Next, wander through the city’s narrow lanes to reach the iconic Rialto Bridge and end your tour with a quintessentially Venetian gondola ride to experience this mesmerising city from the water.  

Day 7  Venice to Florence
Bid farewell to Venice and catch your comfortable, high-speed train to Florence. Sit back and relax as you watch the stunning countryside fly past your window. Florence is the beating heart of Tuscany, one of Italy’s most enchanting regions, and this historic city boasts a wealth of fascinating sights, including a UNESCO-listed centre, breathtaking Renaissance architecture and galleries brimming with artistic masterpieces.  

Day 8  Florence  
Take a full day to discover Florence. The iconic Duomo, which dominates the city skyline, is a great place to start. Skip the queues with your included ticket and, if you’re feeling energetic, climb the 463 steps to the top of the cupola for panoramic views. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s maze of cobbled streets and picturesque piazzas and perhaps visit the famous Uffizi Gallery, home to a world-renowned collection of Renaissance art. This evening, choose from Florence’s excellent selection of restaurants to indulge in some mouth-watering Tuscan cuisine.  

Day 9  Florence to rural Tuscany
Today, take a private transfer into the beautiful countryside of Tuscany. Drive along cypress tree-lined roads, past undulating hills and infinite vineyards before arriving at your rural retreat. Enjoy some time this afternoon unwinding beside the pool or relaxing in the lush gardens at your hotel.  

Day 10 Rural Tuscany
The Tuscan countryside is a sight to behold, so make sure to spend today appreciating its sheer natural beauty. When you’re not simply soaking in the spectacular views, why not take a gentle walk through this picture-perfect landscape or perhaps visit one of the many verdant vineyards to taste the renowned local wine.

Day 11  Rural Tuscany to Rome  
Your private transfer will whisk you back to Florence this morning in time to catch your train to Rome. Once you’ve arrived into Italy’s Eternal City, check into your hotel and head out to explore Rome’s bustling thoroughfares and to admire its many architectural gems. Spend the evening dining al fresco on authentic Italian classics at one of the many restaurants in the colourful Trastevere neighbourhood.

Days 12-13  Rome  
Spend the next two days exploring all that Rome has to offer. On one day, join your included walking tour to discover two of Rome’s most iconic sites. First, cross into the Vatican City to marvel at the palatial St Peter’s Basilica and the magnificent Sistine Chapel, adorned with Michelangelo’s famous frescoes. Next, visit the imposing Colosseum, which dates back to AD 70, and the bustling, ancient Roman Forum. You also have plenty of time to explore Rome’s many other highlights; perhaps make a wish at the Trevi Fountain, climb the iconic Spanish Steps, marvel at the Pantheon or why not enjoy a stroll along the leafy lanes of the Villa Borghese Gardens.  

Day 14  Rome to Sorrento  
This morning, catch your train towards the Amalfi Coast. In a little over an hour, you’ll arrive into Naples before taking a private transfer to your hotel in chic Sorrento. A gateway to the beautiful Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is home to a captivating old town, pretty streets lined by fragrant lemon trees, buzzing cafés in its elegant piazzas, as well as boasting wonderful views from its promenade.  

Day 15  Sorrento  
Today join your small group tour to visit the world-renowned archaeological site of Pompeii. Once a thriving city, Pompeii was infamously buried by the erupting Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Discover the extraordinarily well-preserved ruins before climbing to the rim of the volcanic crater. Return to Sorrento this evening and enjoy a delicious meal in one of its sophisticated restaurants.  

Day 16  Sorrento to the Amalfi Coast  
This morning, take your private transfer to your next hotel in the heart of the alluring Amalfi Coast. You can choose to base yourself in bustling Amalfi, in the peaceful, clifftop village of Ravello or perhaps glamorous Positano. Whichever town you choose, you’ll have the chance to appreciate the dramatic landscapes of the region, from towering cliffs, glittering, sapphire waters and postcard-perfect towns.

Day 17  Amalfi Coast  
Spend today enjoying the relaxed pace of life on the Amalfi Coast; you might wish to explore the pastel-painted villages, hike along one of the scenic walking trails, or simply while away the hours beside your hotel pool.  

Day 18  Amalfi Coast to Sicily  
After transferring to Naples Airport this morning, bid farewell to mainland Italy and catch your flight to the idyllic island of Sicily. Upon arrival, your private transfer will transport you to your hotel near the historic town of Taormina, nestled in the foothills of Mount Etna. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon adjusting to your new surroundings, admiring the lovely, coastal views or enjoying some relaxation time on the beach.  

Days 19-20  Taormina  
Spend the next two days exploring Taormina and its surroundings. On one day, visit the Old Town, brimming with attractive, cobbled streets, grand piazzas lined with lively cafés and restaurants, and striking architecture. Make sure to stop by Taormina’s ancient Greco-Roman amphitheatre, which is nestled into the hillside with an impressive ocean backdrop. If you’re feeling adventurous, perhaps set aside a day to discover nearby Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, or alternatively, simply enjoy la dolce vita and treat yourself to the varied Sicilian cuisine.

Day 21  Taormina  
After a leisurely morning, transfer back to Catania airport for your onward flight.