Essential Italy

Delve deep into what, “La dolce vita” means on this two-week exploration of Italy. Step back in time with an archaeologist on a walk through the ruins of Pompeii, see the Ponte Vecchio in iconic Venice, explore the grounds of a local agriturismo full of lemons along the Amalfi Coast, and hike along the famous “Walk of the Gods” for sweeping views of the Mediterranean. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the country shaped like a boot and see for yourself why life here is said to be so sweet.

Day 1 Venice
Arrive at any time.

Day 2 Venice
Set out on a quick orientation walk through Venice. Get to know some of the local markets and neighbourhoods. The rest of the day is free, choose to explore the Guggenheim Museum, hop on a gondola ride, climb Venice’s tallest building to the Campanile San Marco Lookout, or ride across the lagoon to Murano and Burano Islands.

Day 3 Venice/Cinque Terre
Continue on to Cinque Terre today and enjoy a visit to Monterosso al Mare before a free afternoon to explore other villages along the hillside on your own.

Day 4 Cinque Terre/Florence
The group will transfer to Florence in the Tuscany region of Italy today. Upon arrival, set off on an orientation walk with your CEO through the bustling, ancient streets. Afterwards, enjoy an included aperitivo in a local bar.

Day 5 Florence
Take advantage of this free day to delve deeper into Florence. With options ranging from a visit to a 17th-century city wall to a stroll across the Ponte Vecchio, there will be no shortage of activities to try. And with a full day to spare you just may get through them all.

Day 6 Florence
Florence is all yours again today. There are plenty of options to get out into the heart of this lively Italian city. Opt to check out the Medici Chapels, set off on a day tour into the Tuscan town of Lucca, tour the Uffizi Gallery, or go on a trip to Pisa.

Day 7 Florence/Naples
Hop aboard a train to Naples. Once you arrive you have the option to sit down for a delicious meal in the place where pizza came about. You could also visit the National Archaeological Museum or look at the Veiled Christ, see the tunnels of underground Naples, or simply relax in the main plaza with a cocktail in hand.

Day 8 Naples/Sorrento
Start the day off with vist to the ruins of Pompeii with an archaeologist. Afterwards travel to Sorrento via bus where you will be treated to beautiful views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Day 9 Sorrento
Today is a day of leisure in Sorrento and it can be as adventurous or relaxing as you choose. Opt to hangout near the boutique hotel that the group is staying in just steps from the central piazza or visit the nearby islands of Capri or Ischia to discover more of this country’s beauty.

Day 10 Sorrento/Amalfi
Learn all about limoncello today while the group visits an organic lemon farm. Wander the grounds that smell strongly of lemon and sample the sweet liqueur before continuing on to the Amalfi coast where you’ll eat lunch at a local agriturismo. The group will meet the family and tour the property which happens to be a converted 17th-century monastery. Learn all about the local produce and herbs grown here and enjoy sweeping views of the Mediterranean.

Day 11 Amalfi
Enjoy a hike along one of the most famous walks in the Amalfi region known as “Walk of the Gods”. Follow the ancient paths that climb high above the coastal towns of Positano and Praiano. See some of the best scenery in the are and wander by farms, villages, churches, and monasteries as you go.

Day 12 Amalfi/Rome
Continue on to Rome where you will head out on an orientation walk with your CEO. Afterwards, explore as you please. From Catacombs to the Colosseum there’s no shortage of history or culture to be seen.

Day 13 Rome
Take advantage of free time in Rome to visit popular museums, stare up at the Sistine Chapel, rent a Vespa a cruise through the streets and narrow lanes, or maybe head out on a street food tour of Rome. Make sure that whatever you choose, you leave time to grab some caffè or gelato while you walk.

Day 14 Rome
Depart at any time.