12-Nights Italian Indulgence: A Culinary Exploration - Food & Drink, Escorted Tours from $4,949

Goway Travel

OFFER ID 1722848

Epic Scenery, Iconic Landmarks Explore Italy's enchanting landscapes and cultures on this journey from Rome to Venice, featuring medieval villages, culinary delights, and stunning coastal views.

Trip Overview:

Join one of our unique small group touring experiences (maximum 18 participants) that includes specially selected accommodations, transportation in purpose built Mercedes Benz Sprinters, sightseeing, special culinary experiences and a knowledgeable Tour Leader.

Depart from Rome heading north to the province of Umbria. Stop first in the medieval village of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. After time exploring Assisi, continue to Perugia, another Umbrian medieval walled city dating back to Etruscan times. It is known for its universities and as a cultural and artistic centre. Overnight in Perugia.

Visit the following morning, the wonderful impressive city of Siena in Tuscany. The Piazza del Campo will take your breath away with its imposing beauty. It is also the venue of the famous Palio horse race. Later, you will travel through the local Tuscan countryside with its rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards arriving at your idyllic Tuscan villa in the Chianti region where you will stay for 2 nights.

The next day, the villa’s chef will teach you the secrets to making the perfect pasta and Italian bread which you will then prepare and eat for lunch. The remainder of the day is free to relax by the pool.

The next morning, travel to Florence where you will have a walking tour of the city including the renowned and ancient Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River. Walk over the bridge with its many glittering jewellery shops. Visit the Galeria dell’ Accademia to view the famous imposing Michelangelo statue of David. Leave Florence and head to Lucca, an extremely attractive Tuscan town, one of Italy’s finest medieval towns with its massive 16th Century walls. Spend 2 nights here.

Next up is a visit to Pisa with its famous Leaning Tower and the Baptistery of St. John. Return to Lucca with a free afternoon to explore the charms of the city.

The next day takes you to the region of Genoa, stopping at the romantic Camogli and glittering Portofino before settling in at Santa Margherita Ligure on the Mediterranean for overnight. Santa Margherita is known as the playground of the rich and famous. It is a beautiful old resort with palm trees, an attractive marina and a sailboat centre.

The following morning, head north to the province of Piedmont known for its charming castles, quaint villages and hilltop vineyards. Arrive at the village of Barolo where you will go on a truffle hunt with a local farmer together with a hunting dog to eek out the famed, rare and expensive white Alba truffle. Continue to Pollenza, an unassuming small town known for its cuisine and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will visit the Banca del Vino to have a wine tasting lead by professional sommeliers. Overnight in Pollenza.

The next day, start with a visit to the Torronificio Barbero Nougat private collection for a tasting of nougat and chocolate. This is followed by a risotto lunch after which continue to the lakes of Northern Italy. After a short stop at Lake Orta, arrive at Lake Maggiore for a 2 night stay.
The next morning, explore the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore. You will visit Isola Bella with its magnificent baroque garden, Isola del Pescatori with its pretty harbour and Isola Madre with its Renaissance villa.

Leave Lake Maggiore and travel to Verona stopping at Lake Garda en route. On arrival in Verona, explore the city with its wonderful Roman amphitheatre, venue of open air operas and Juliet’s balcony. Overnight in Trento.

Finally head to Venice where you bid farewell.

Highlights:

Begin your Italian journey in timeless Rome, savouring authentic cuisine and ancient wonders before travelling north through the country’s heartlands.
Discover the spiritual serenity of Assisi, the artistic treasures of Florence, and the rolling hills of rural Tuscany, where you’ll enjoy a hands-on cooking experience.
Explore the medieval charm of Lucca and Pisa, then soak up the glamour of the Italian Riviera in Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.
Journey into Piedmont for truffle hunting in Alba, wine tasting in Barolo, and luxurious stays along the tranquil shores of Lakes Orta, Maggiore and Como.
Conclude your indulgent adventure amid the alpine beauty of Trento and the romance of Verona before arriving in the enchanting canals of Venice.

Included Services:

1 night premium accommodation in Rome
1 night moderate accommodation in Perugia
2 nights premium accommodation in Tuscany
2 nights premium accommodation in Lucca
1 night premium accommodation in Santa Margherita Ligure
1 night premium accommodation in the Langhe region
2 nights premium accommodation at Lake Maggiore
1 night premium accommodation in Sondrio
1 night premium accommodation in Trento
Transportation in Premium mini-coach with Tour Leader and driver
Guided visits and orientation of Assisi, Siena, Florence, Pisa, Lake Maggiore, Trento, Verona
Visit to a local winery and tastings in Piedmont
Truffle hunt in Alba
Scenic boat tour of Borromean Islands
Breakfast daily (excluding day 1), 2 lunches, 4 dinners

Excluded Services:

Travel insurance
International and domestic airfare & airfare taxes
Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
Gratuities
Optional excursions
Items of a personal nature
Passport & Visa fees, if applicable

12 nights from $4,949 per person

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Rome

They say all roads lead to Rome – and that is where you’ll begin your delightful Italian adventure. After meeting the group, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Hotel: The Guardian Hotel (4 Star Rating)

This amazingly situated and with a stylish décor hotel is located in Rome, Italy. The Rome Ciampino Airport is about 25-minute car ride away from the complex and the Rome Termini Train Station is conveniently located at a walking distance. Guests can enjoy having a delicious meal a well-needed drink in any of the several restaurants, cafes and bars which have a great atmosphere to share with friends or family. Places that cannot be missed while being in town are the famous Trevi Fountain, the Coliseum and the Vatican Museum. The modern and sophisticated style of the rooms along with their vibrant colours and the essential facilities, are what travellers need after an exhausting day of exploring the city.

Meal(s): Dinner

Day 2: Rome to Assisi & Perugia

After breakfast, our route will whisk us away to awe-inspiring Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis. After getting to know the famous hilltop town a little better on an orientation tour, we'll move on to Perugia - the medieval capital of the Umbria region.

Hotel: Hotel Fortuna Perugia (3 Star Rating)

In an exclusive location in the historic center of Perugia, just a few meters from Corso Vannucci and the city hall, in a building of 1300, Hotel Fortuna is unique for the comfort and hospitality of the staff. The hotel will be happy to give illustrations and explanations about the city, to advise on shows, exhibitions and events and to offer the most characteristic restaurants.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 3: Perugia to Siena & Rural Tuscany

Introducing Siena: a magnificent Gothic city bursting with fabulous architecture. After exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town centre with our Tour Leader, we'll make tracks for tonight's idyllic accommodation: a country villa hotel set amidst the rolling Tuscan countryside. For dinner this evening, we'll come together to indulge in some superb local cuisine.

Hotel: Villa Pitiana (4 Star Rating)

As soon as you leave the main road of Valdarno turning up in S.Ellero, you start getting the countryside scenarios of Tuscany which made you selecting Villa Pitiana as headquarters of your holidays. Just after the last small cottages of Donnini village, Villa Pitiana sparkles of elegant yellow in the wood landscape.

The yellow color dominates the image of the Villa: the countryside around the villa is dotted with yellow too, the colors of the Roman chamomile, yarrow and dandelion flowers: their colors and scents crown the other plants sweetening the strict green color of the large woods of the property climbing up the mountain till reaching the Pratomagno edge.

At evening the yellow color is spread throughout by the lights of the old golden lamps and amplified by the festoons of crystal in the hall and dining room.

Pitiana’s beauty and charm open a door to the past.

The villa still retains the articulated architecture of a millenary history, from the foundation as a fortified farm, to the utilization as Benedictine monastery and eventually to the conversion in nobleman elegant Villa in the IXth century – lately revised in to a tourist residence. Architecture, decorations and furniture maintain memory of flowing of ages and styles.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4: Exploring Rural Tuscany

Interested in learning a few Italian culinary secrets? You're in luck! Today our friendly hosts will help us to prepare a classic Tuscan lunch. After indulging in our creations, the afternoon will be ours to take in the panoramic countryside views or take a dip in the pool.

Hotel: Villa Pitiana (4 Star Rating)

At evening the yellow color is spread throughout by the lights of the old golden lamps and amplified by the festoons of crystal in the hall and dining room.

Pitiana’s beauty and charm open a door to the past.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Rural Tuscany to Florence & Lucca

Today we'll turn our attention to Florence: the birthplace of the Renaissance and home of some of the world's most treasured masterpieces. A local guide will bring the city alive as we stroll by the likes of the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio on a walking tour. Then, as the afternoon turns to dusk, we’ll press on to lovely Lucca.

Hotel: Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli (4 Star Rating)

La Corte Degli Angeli stands cupped within the encircling walls of Lucca crowned with its sheltering trees. It is the size of a jewel-box both intimate yet spacious and is full of charm and fascinating attractions. A delightful place to stay, it is furnished with every comfort and decorated according to a pattern of flowers which enhances the interior decoration with its lively colours. The evocative view over the old roofs and characteristic towers of the town are an added joy.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 6: Excursion to Pisa

Prepare to see an Italian icon up close today as we pay a visit to the Campo Dei Miracoli: home to the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa. There will be plenty of time for photographing this iconic landmark and uncovering the acoustic wonders of the Baptistry of St John before returning to Lucca. This afternoon, we'll have the chance to explore the cobblestone streets at our own pace.

Hotel: Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli (4 Star Rating)

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 7: Lucca to Camogli, Portofino & Santa Margherita Ligure

It's time to experience the glitz and glamour of the Italian Riviera! Today we'll make stops at romantic Camogli and glittering Portofino before settling in at Santa Margherita Ligure. This evening, take some time to wander along the beautiful beachfront - taking in the pastel-coloured houses, elegant hotels and sparkling sea.

Hotel: Europa Hotel Design Spa 1877 (4 Star Rating)

In Rapallo, exclusive resort of the Riviera di Levante, Europa Hotel Design Spa 1877 offers a safe and comfortable stay. Europa Hotel Design Spa 1877 is located in a totally renewed ancient palace of the early 1600s. It is characterized by minimal furnishings inspired by new trends that create a pleasantly refined atmosphere. The Hotel, the Wellness Center and the Restaurant Plinio Riviera provide services and high level of professionalism.

The guests will enjoy a spacious parking garage and a private parking outside. Placed in a panoramic position opposite to the ancient castle, the Hotel is just a few steps away from the seafront, the beaches and the "imbarcadero", the starting point for ferries to Portofino, San Fruttuoso and the charming Cinque Terre.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 8: Santa Margherita Ligure to Barolo, Asti & Langhe Region

Away from the coast and onwards to Barolo, in Piedmont: a region of rich red wines and luxurious cuisine. This afternoon there's a treat in store for the bon vivants among us - we'll be visiting a local distillery near Asti to taste some local liquors. After, we'll move on to the enchanting Langhe region where a group dinner awaits.

Hotel: Hotel Castello di Santa Vittoria (3 Star Rating)

In the heart of Roero, you can find “St. Vittoria’s Castle” with its tower overlooking the hill of Santa Vittoria d’Alba and the valley of the river Tanaro. Eight hundred years of history live on within the walls and today the Castle is certainly ideal for those who are looking for relaxation and pleasures of the palate.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9: Langhe Region to Alba, Lake Orta & Lake Maggiore

Rise and shine - this morning we'll be heading out into the hills of Alba to join a truffle hunt with a local farmer and his dog. Later, we'll hit the road to the captivating Lake Orta: a tranquil retreat sitting pretty at the bottom of the imposing Monte Mottarone. Then: from one blissful Italian lake to another! Lake Maggiore will be the final stop on today's scenic journey.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Majestic (4 Star Rating)

Grand Hotel Majestic is a superior hotel located directly on the lake. Built in 1870, on the elegant west Piedmont shores of Lake Maggiore, the property is a fascinating exemplary conception of La Belle Epoque.

The Grand Hotel Majestic is member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and since 2007 is recommended by Legambiente Turismo for its commitment in the environmental protection.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 10: A Day at Lake Maggiore

Today we'll leave dry land behind us and set sail for the Borromean Island: a charming collection of islets located in the western corner of the lake. We'll have plenty of time to explore Isola Madre, wander the terraces of the ornate baroque garden on Isola Bella and discover the pretty harbour of Isola dei Pescatori before we return to shore. After a light lunch, we'll have some free time to spend at our leisure.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Majestic (4 Star Rating)

The Grand Hotel Majestic is member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World and since 2007 is recommended by Legambiente Turismo for its commitment in the environmental protection.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11: Lake Maggiore to Lake Como & Sondrio

After bidding a fond farewell to Lake Maggiore we will venture along the shores of stunning Lake Como. Passing lakeside villages draped in opulence, here we'll receive a rare insight into how the rich and famous live. Continuing our journey, we'll stop to taste some local wine before arriving at Sondrio - our home for the night.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Della Posta (4 Star Rating)

Welcome to Grand Hotel della Posta, a relaxing oasis right in the centre of Sondrio: since 1862 the "Hotel Posta" welcomes its guests. This building of solid tradition, recently restored with great attention and care for detail, offers visitors all the comforts of home.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Day 12: Sondrio to Lake Molveno & Trento

Today we'll shine the spotlight on one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy: the spectacular Lake Molveno - a swathe of iridescent blue that lies at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites. Then, our Tour Leader will take us on a leisurely stroll around the mountain city of Trento before we settle in for tonight's farewell dinner.

Hotel: Grand Hotel Trento (4 Star Rating)

This 4 star hotel is located in the city centre of Trento and was established in 1943. It is a short drive away from the Buonconsiglio Castle and the nearest station is Central Bus Station. The Hotel has a restaurant, a bar and a conference room. All 136 rooms are equipped with minibar, hairdryer, safe, trouser press and air conditioning.

Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13: Trento to Verona & Venice

Filled with impressive ruins and romantic hotspots, fair Verona beckons today. After taking in the city highlights on an orientation tour, we'll board the mini-coach one last time for the journey to our show-stopping finale: the floating city of Venice.

Meal(s): Breakfast

Featured Destinations

Lucca

Province of Sondrio (Valtellina)

Langhe

Perugia

Trento

Lake Maggiore

Santa Margherita

Tuscany

Rome

Sprawled across seven legendary hills, romantic and beautiful Rome was one
of the great centers of the ancient world. Although its beginning is shrouded
in legend and its development is full of intrigue and struggle, Rome has always
been and remains the Eternal City.

Rome enjoyed its greatest splendor during the 1st and 2nd centuries when art
flourished, monumental works of architecture were erected, and the mighty Roman
legions swept outward, conquering all of Italy. These victorious armies then
swept across the Mediterranean and beyond to conquer most of the known world.
With Rome's establishment as capital of the western world, a new ascent to glory
began.

Today's Rome, with its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious
parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafes and elegant shops, is
one of the world’s most attractive and exciting cities. Among the most famous
monuments is the Colosseum. As you walk its cool, dark passageways, imagine
the voices that once filled the arena as 50,000 spectators watched combats between
muscled gladiators and ferocious animals.

Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once the city's political and commercial
center. In later times, Rome's squares were enhanced with such imposing structures
as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument and grandiose fountains like the Fontana di
Trevi. Join the millions who stand in awe of Christendom’s most magnificent
church and admire the timeless masterpieces of Michelangelo's frescoes in the
Sistine Chapel.

Rome jars the senses and captures the soul. Grasp all you can during the short,
precious time you have available in the Eternal City. With so much to see and
do, a day or two will only allow you a sampling of the city's marvelous treasures.

Caution: As in many big cities and tourist destinations purse snatching
and pickpocketing is common. Valuable jewelry and excess cash are best left
in a safety deposit box in your hotel.

Shopping For most visitors shopping for beautiful Italian leather articles,
designer shoes, fashions for men and women, linens, knitwear, silk scarves and
ties is a favorite pastime. Except for tourist-oriented shops, the majority
of stores are closed on Sundays. Some of the department stores, such as Rinascente,
open in the late afternoon on Sundays.

Cuisine Rome's choice of restaurants is mindboggling as is the variety
of cuisine. Whether your meal is at a top-rated restaurant or a rustic trattoria,
you can be sure that you will enjoy your food, especially when accompanied by
wines from the hill towns surrounding Rome.

Other Sights Rome's attractions are endless, and depending on how much
time you have at your disposal a careful selection has to be made about what
to see. Be aware of horrendous traffic conditions and major construction work
all around the city in preparation of Jubilee 2000, the Holy Year. Some of the
sights not to be missed:

Piazza Venezia - This busy square is easily recognized by its imposing Vittorio
Emanuele II Monument. The white marble structure was inaugurated in 1911 as
a symbol of Italy’s unification.

The Forum - Once the civic heart of ancient Rome, today the remains include
a series of ruins, marble fragments, isolated columns and some worn arches.

Colosseum - No visit to Rome is complete without a stop at this awe-inspiring
theater, which is among the world’s most celebrated buildings. Here ancient
Rome flocked to see gladiatorial contests and numerous other spectacles.

Trevi Fountain - Take a stroll to Rome's famous fountain. A spectacular fantasy
of mythical sea creatures and cascades of splashing water, the fountain is one
of the city's foremost attractions. Legend has it that visitors must toss a
coin into the fountain to ensure their return to Rome.

St. Peter's Square - Part of Vatican City, this square created by Bernini
is considered one of the loveliest squares in the world. Twin Doric colonnades
topped with statues of various saints and martyrs flank either side of the square.
In the center stands an 84-foot obelisk, brought from Egypt in 37 A.D.

St. Peter's Basilica - At the head of the square stands Christendom's most
magnificent church, which was begun in 1452 on the site where St. Peter was
buried. Throughout the following 200 years, such Renaissance masters as Bramante,
Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini worked on its design and created an unparalleled
masterpiece. Of special note are Michelangelo's Pieta and the bronze canopy
over the high altar by Bernini. The immense dome was designed by Michelangelo.

Vatican Museum - To see this museum's immense collection would take days.
As you enter, there are special posters that plot a choice of four color-coded
itineraries. They are repeated throughout the museum and are easy to follow.
It is a good idea to pickup a leaflet at the main entrance and concentrate on
exhibits of major interest. Of course, the Sistine Chapel is a must. Most likely
you may have to wait in line to enter.

Excursions

Rome Highlights and Vatican: 9 hours

Meet your private English-speaking driver at the pier side of Civitavecchia port.
Rome is a mix of architecture styles, of antiques and new, of sacred and profane. In this full day tour you can enjoy a sample of this capital city. With your guide reach the Vatican city where you can visit the Museums, admiring its priceless collection of art and architecture: highlights include Raphael's Transfiguration, The Raphael Rooms, the Sculpture Garden featuring the famous Laokoon. Finally, the restored Sistine Chapel, famous all over the world for the breathtaking Michelangelo’s ceiling and the Last Judgment. From here you walk to St. Peter's Basilica to marvel at Michelangelo's Dome, his statue Pietà, Bernini's magnificent Baldacchino and the Tombs of the Popes. The tour will continue with a look at the ancient part of the Eternal city and its symbol: the Coliseum, where, jumping the lines, you will be able to enter in the magnificent Flavian Amphitheatre and admire where the gladiatorial duels, wild beast fights were arranged for the entertainment of Roman people.
The second part of the day will be dedicated to the visit of the city center, starting from Navona Square, the most important of Baroque Rome, where today it is possible to admire the monumental Fountain of the Rivers by Bernini. Continue your tour visiting the Pantheon, the jewel of Roman architecture, then Trevi Fountain, the most famous and beautiful fountain in Rome. End the tour at the Spanish Steps, built entirely in travertine in the 18th century.
We will ensure your timely return transfer to the Civitavecchia Port

Access to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica is allowed only to properly attired visitors.

Highlights:

Vatican Museums, Ancient Rome, main highlights

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible: Yes

Physical Activity Level: low

Inclusions:
·         Luxury Mercedes minivan at disposal for the entire day
·         English-speaking driver at disposal for the entire day
·         6 hour private English-speaking guide
·         No Line entrance fees for the Vatican Museums and Colosseum

Exclusions:
·         All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
·         Gratuities

Tivoli: Villas in the Countryside - 8 Hours

Ostia Antica - 6 Hours

Roman Castles - 8 Hours

Lake Bracciano and the Monster Park - 8 Hours

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

11/06/2026 - 12/31/2028

from $4,949 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $4,949 per person

Length

12 Nights

Air City

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Vacation Rating

Deluxe
Fine dining, on-site bars or lounges and room service with extended hours are characteristic of deluxe establishments. Guest services usually include valet parking, concierge services, baggage assistance and laundry services. Other on-site facilities often include shops and boutiques, full service spas, full fitness facilities with pools and tennis courts. Business amenities may include available up-to-date technology and support staffs available for services. Attention to detail is apparent in the guestrooms which typically have stylish furnishings, quality bedding and bath products and often provide an evening turn down service.

Remarks

Pricing is dynamic and subject to change based on specific travel dates, room categories and availability. Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travelers are available on request - please inquire with your Travel Advisor.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1722848

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Yankee Clipper Travel

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