Italian Glory - 13 Days
13 Days
Milan
Rome
***
Trafalgar Tours
13-Day Italy Tour of Lake Maggiore, Venice, the Amalfi Coast and Rome
Get set for one of our most glorious Italy trips, from the stunning scenery of the beautiful Italian Lakes to the colourful Amalfi coast with its pretty cliffside villages and sun-kissed seaside vibe and the waterways of Venice to what was once the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome. Italy will truly capture your heart...
Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to the Italian Lakes
Arrival Transfer: Depart Malpensa airport at 10:00, 14:30
Welcome: Meet your Travel Director at 17:00
Stylish Baveno is your launchpad to the Italian Lakes where you'll spend the first night of our leisurely jaunt through Italy. After arriving in Lake Maggiore, unwind and soak up the peaceful atmosphere. Admire the mesmerising reflection of the surrounding peaks in the deep blue waters which make this one of Italy's most soul-stirring settings. Enjoy a leisurely stroll past exquisite lakeside villas and gardens before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers for dinner.
Day 2: Discover Fashionable Milan and Como
The runways of Milan take centre stage today as you explore Italy’s fashion capital. Join a Local Specialist to see both the iconic and lesser-known highlights of this city, from the Gothic Duomo with its thousands of sculptures to La Scala Opera House and the glass-domed Galleria. Later, head to Como, where you can stroll along the lake, browse the streets and shops, or join an Optional Experience to hear the stories behind Villa Olmo before time along the waterfront.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Treasures of Milan - EUR 54 pp
A fantastic opportunity to take in some of the highlights of elegant Milan. Amongst other sights, you'll visit La Scala, the world's most famous opera house, where Giuseppe Verdi, Maria Callas and others have left their mark. Your wonderful Local Specialist will bring the city’s eventful past to life.
Lake Como: Shoreline Views and Villages - EUR 51 pp
Travel along Lake Como's shores and hear the stories behind Villa Olmo and the grand estates from your Local Specialist. Then stretch your legs on a lakeside walk, taking in views across to Brunate and passing the Tempio Voltiano, before enjoying a local treat in Como.
Day 3: Venture to Verona and Venice
The tragic story of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers is revealed during our visit to romantic Verona, today. View the remarkably preserved Roman Arena, a venue of entertainment for nearly 2,000 years, once the stage for gladiator battles and now host to modern-day open-air concerts. Indulge in a leisurely cappuccino stop in the city's beautiful Piazza Bra, admiring the imposing bronze statue of King Victor Emanuel II. Or shop up a storm on trendy Via Mazzini before continuing to Venice, where you'll spend the next two nights.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Gondolas & the Grand Canal - EUR 96 pp
Cruise by private water taxi along the Grand Canal, passing the city's iconic palazzi. Spot the Rialto Bridge and arrive near St. Mark's Square before switching pace with a gondola ride through Venice's quieter canals.
Day 4: Explore the Floating City
Glide through the canals of Venice by private launch visiting some of the jewels in the crown of the 'Queen of the Adriatic'. On your unforgettable MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll witness the centuries-old Venetian tradition of glassblowing. Watch as the master craftsmen shape the molten glass into the exquisite works of art for which Venice is justifiably famous, then it's on to St. Mark's Square to admire the profound beauty of the Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. See the Bridge of Sighs, so named because of the sound prisoners would make when taking one last longing look at their beloved city before being imprisoned. Later, you’ll have the rest of the day to indulge your inner explorer and discover the many treasures of Venice your way, or consider an optional experience to the island of Burano, renowned for its colourful fishermen houses.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Venice's Secrets - EUR 51 pp
Explore the hidden maze of streets which make up this unique city as your Local Specialist gives you a fascinating insight into Venice's past and present. You’ll discover tucked away squares and back streets local Venetians use to side-step the tourist throng and give you a sense of authentic life on the island of Venice.
Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks - EUR 90 pp
Cruise across the Venetian Lagoon to Burano, a small island known for its brightly coloured houses and strong fishing traditions. Wander along quiet canals and browse shops selling handmade lace, a craft passed down through generations. Then sit down to a relaxed dinner featuring local flavours and regional wine, surrounded by the island’s cheerful character and laid-back charm.
Day 5: Onwards to Florence
From Venice, cross the Apennine Mountains to Florence, the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'. Consider joining your Travel Director for a traditional Florentine dinner in the heart of the Chianti Hills.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Michelangelo's 'David' & Accademia - EUR 66 pp
Step inside the Accademia Gallery for a closer look at Michelangelo’s David, one of the world’s most celebrated sculptures. With guidance from your Local Specialist, discover how this Renaissance masterpiece was brought to life and hear the stories behind Michelangelo’s work and legacy in Florence.
Discover Palazzo Vecchio - EUR 56 pp
Marvel at the legacy of the Medici as you visit Palazzo Vecchio, the symbol of Florence’s political power for over seven centuries. With your Local Specialist, visit the magnificent Hall of the Five Hundred, dedicated to the Medici popes. You’ll also explore rooms decorated with masterpieces by Renaissance artists such as Michelangelo and Donatello. Note: Due to temporary exhibitions, on certain dates the Hall of the Five Hundred may be viewed from the balcony.
Dinner in the Tuscan Countryside - EUR 80 pp
This evening, take a scenic drive to experience a fun and relaxed evening at a friendly, typical restaurant in the countryside. The chef will delight our senses with regional dishes, made with freshly-bought ingredients from the local farmers' markets. Your delicious meal will be accompanied by excellent wines from the vineyards for which this area is so well known. In short, a Tuscan dream come true in an authentic setting.
Day 6: Ponte Vecchio and More in Florence
This morning, join a Local Specialist on a leisurely walking tour to delve into the culture and history of Florence. You'll visit the Piazza del Duomo to view the multi-coloured marble Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore, Piazza della Signoria with its exquisite art and palazzi, and see the Ponte Vecchio bridge that has straddled the Arno River for almost 700 years. Admire spectacular views of the city from Piazzale Michelangelo. Later, learn about the quality and workmanship of two of this city's historic industries at demonstrations of Florentine leathercraft and 18-carat gold. This afternoon, consider an optional experience to visit hilltop San Gimignano. Join your fellow travellers this evening for a Be My Guest experience set against the backdrop of Tuscan vineyards and olive groves.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Visit to San Gimignano - EUR 59 pp
Explore San Gimignano with your Local Specialist and learn how rival families built towers in a race for status. Walk cobbled streets lined with medieval architecture and hear stories of life in this hilltop town, all while sampling a local sweet treat along the way.
Day 7: Off to the Sunny Amalfi Coast
Journey south through the Arno Valley, passing the Bay of Naples bound for Maiori on the Amalfi Coast, where you'll spend the next three nights. This evening, dine with your fellow travellers.
Day 8: Uncover the Treasures of Amalfi
This morning, travel to Amalfi, perched perfectly on this dramatic stretch of coastline. See the 10th-century Sant'Andrea cathedral with its beautifully striped Byzantine facade in the heart of the town and soak up the laid-back atmosphere. Continue your exploration of the Amalfi Coast by joining an Optional Experience to beautiful Positano.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Amalfi Coast and Positano - EUR 80 pp
Join us as we take in delightful villages and spectacular scenery along the incredible Amalfi Coast. You’ll visit the celebrated town of Positano, which is also a Unesco World Heritage site. There will be time to shop for local goods or enjoy a drink in a cafe overlooking the beach.
Explore Ravello - EUR 61 pp
Join us on a trip to the balcony of the Amalfi coast. Ravello is perched high above the terraced groves with breathtaking views. Your Local Specialist will show you the gardens of the Villa Rufolo, which inspired Wagner, and you’ll have free time to visit the 11th-century cathedral.
Day 9: Amalfi Coast Your Way
Relax at your hotel on the Amalfi Coast or wander past fragrant lemon terraces. You have a full free day to indulge in your heart’s desires – consider a fresh seafood lunch, from sea to table, or take a dip in the welcoming, warm Mediterranean waters.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Dinner on the Amalfi Coast - EUR 90 pp
Come with us for a short drive to a restaurant we know and love on the Amalfi Coast. You'll get to try some favourite local dishes and drinks, all served alongside Neapolitan hospitality and beautiful views.
Day 10: The Ruins of Pompeii and on to Rome
Embark on a walking tour with a Local Specialist and discover the lost city of Pompeii, which was buried under volcanic ash when Mount Vesuvius erupted. Continue to the 'Eternal City' of Rome, enjoying views of the 6th-century Benedictine Abbey in Cassino en route. Spend the evening exploring the extraordinary heritage of Rome, which spans millennia, or consider an optional experience to see the exquisite art and architecture of this one-time capital of the world.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Piazzas and Fountains - EUR 50 pp
Discover the most enchanting areas of the city with a Local Specialist. Stroll through the maze of narrow streets and picturesque squares in Rome’s historic centre, uncovering famous landmarks and hidden gems in the Eternal City.
Day 11: Experience Ancient Rome and the Vatican City
Spend the morning in Vatican City with a Local Specialist, visiting St. Peter’s Basilica to view Michelangelo’s renowned Pietà. Then cross the Tiber into Ancient Rome for a visit to the Colosseum, the iconic arena once filled with crowds and contests. This afternoon, enjoy time to explore Rome at your own pace or choose to wander the ancient ruins of Palatine Hill.
Please note: On some departures, access to St. Peter’s Basilica may be restricted due to the Papal Audience. You’ll still have time to take in the atmosphere of St. Peter’s Square during your visit to Vatican City.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Ancient and Christian Rome - EUR 52 pp
Join us on an exploration of Rome's past with our Local Specialist. On this trip you'll visit the Catacombs, where the early Christians assembled to escape persecution and which were used as underground cemeteries. We’ll also pass by the pyramid of Cestius and the baths of Caracalla.
Roman Evening with Dinner - EUR 79 pp
Tonight, spend a lively evening with us in Rome. After a short drive, arrive at a characteristic trattoria to relax and enjoy a typical Italian meal, soaking up The Eternal City's unique atmosphere all the while.
Day 12: Rome Your Way
Indulge in a full free day to explore the passionate embrace of the city and its zesty locals. Ease into la dolce vita, or consider an Optional Experience to Tivoli, where you can visit Villa d'Este with its magnificent Renaissance gardens and exquisite fountains. This evening, enjoy dinner with newfound friends and your Travel Director before bidding arrivederci to Rome.
Optional Experiences: (Optional Experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked through your Travel Director while on tour).
Tivoli and Gardens of the Villa d’Este - EUR 58 pp
Enjoy the gardens and fountains of the famous Villa d’Este. See its grottos and pavilions, the Avenue of a Hundred Fountains, the Dragon Fountain and the Fountain of the Water Organ with a Local Specialist.
Day 13: Arrivederci Italy
Your unforgettable encounter with Italy comes to an end today. You can, of course, extend your stay.
Departure Transfer: Arrive at Leonardo da Vinci airport (FCO) at 07:00, 09:30
Includes
- 12 nights in handpicked 3 & 4 star hotels in great locations
- Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
- 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
- Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
Excludes
- Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
- Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
- Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour
Choose Your Departure Date
Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?
A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.
The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.
For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.
The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice.
Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.
YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.
CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.
What does the tour cost include?
The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.
Can i book flights through you?
Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines.
When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for any flight requirements.
You are, of course, welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.
Can i add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?
Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.
Can i book twin beds or triple/quad rooms?
Yes, we have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.
If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.
For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.
For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.
How much is the solo/single supplement?
Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.
How many guests will be on this tour?
Trafalgar welcomes guests from all over the world to have an amazing, shared travel experience. While we can’t share details of who you’ll be travelling with and how many people are on your tour in advance of your tour, you can see our average group sizes below. You’ll meet your group at your tour welcome when you start your trip.
Europe trips: An average of 40 to 45 guests and a maximum of 53
United States and Canada trips: A maximum of 52 guests
Australia and New Zealand trips: A maximum of 50 guests
Asia trips (except Sri Lanka): A maximum of 32 guests
Sri Lanka trips: A maximum of 48 guests
Africa trips: A maximum of 36 guests
Latin America trips: A maximum of 40 to 45 guests
How much walking will be on this tour?
With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.
Leisurely: Tours will typically have 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs.
Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs.
Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.
Do your coaches have on-board wifi and bathroom faclilites?
Regardless of where in the world your tour visits, we do our best to ensure your coach is as comfortable as it can be. However, there can be differences depending on where in the world you're visiting:
Europe, North & South America, Australia & New Zealand trips:-
We pride ourselves on having the best-in-class fleet of fuel-efficient coaches. The high vantage point from your coach’s window means you can take in all the glorious scenery, whether it’s a vast rural landscape or an urban city centre. Facilities you’ll enjoy are:
- Reclining seats
- An on-board restroom
- Charging points (please note that these are power points, and not USBs)
- WiFi
- Air-conditioning
Africa & Asia trips:-
Africa and Asia tour vehicles do not have Wi-Fi. On Asia trips, there are no onboard rest rooms, but we always ensure there are regular rest stops.
Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?
Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.
Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.
Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.
Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.
We suggest that your insurance covers the following:
- Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
- Loss or damage to your property and baggage
- Loss of cash, credit cards etc
- Medical costs and personal accidents
Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive.
Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel.
Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.
What does a guaranteed departure mean?
A guaranteed departure means the tour will operate no matter how many people are booked to travel on that departure.
In the slim case that a guaranteed departure you are booked on has to be withdrawn due to unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid, or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.
What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.
Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.
USA trips incl transiting travellers:
US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Canada trips:
Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.
eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.
Rest of the World trips:
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.
What if I have mobility issues?
Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.
What if I have food allergies?
Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.
You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.
How much luggage can I bring?
Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in).
In addition guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).
Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.