Italy's Best
Italy's Best
Italy's Best
14 Days Starting and ending in ROME
Visiting: Italy, Switzerland
Tour operator:
Tour code:
6390-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 43
Age range:
5-99
Special diets catered:
Please Advise Request
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
With its magnificent architecture, beautiful landscapes, sumptuous cuisine, ancient ruins, and brilliant art, Italy is a country like no other. On this affordable Italy’s Best tour, you’ll experience all of this and more. One of the tour’s highlights is the excursion to the Cinque Terre—five medieval seaside villages. The area is noted for its natural beauty with terraces built into the mountainside on cliffs that drop down into the sea. Delight in the unique charm of the area and take in the breathtaking views. On your journey through Tuscany, watch the undulating hills, terraced vineyards, olive groves, and rural villages. More stunning scenery awaits at Lake Maggiore, one of Italy’s largest lakes. Located on the edge of the Swiss Alps, it’s the perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty. Briefly cross the border into Switzerland to Lugano, a lakeside town with a Mediterranean flair. In southern Italy, witness magnificent views of the crystal-clear, blue sea in the vibrant town of Sorrento, and enjoy a day trip to Capri where the crashing sea has formed awe-inspiring caves. On this comprehensive Italy tour, history comes alive. Visit Pompeii, buried during the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This amazingly preserved archaeological site gives you a detailed insight into ordinary life at the peak of the Roman Empire. In Rome, during the city sightseeing tour with a local guide, see the main sights, as well as Vatican City with St Peter’s Basilica. In Genoa, boasting Europe’s largest medieval historical district, view the remains of the city’s 17th-century fortifications. Visit St Francis’ Basilica in Assisi, a medieval town set in the Umbrian hills. Guided city sightseeing tours are planned in Rome, Florence, Assisi, and Genoa. Your visit to Venice includes a boat trip to St Mark’s square to see the maze of canals forming this unique romantic city. These are just some of the many highlights of this affordable tour of Italy!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Rome,Italy
Accommodation Name: BV Oly Hotel or Grand Fleming Hotel
Check into your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to explore this ancient capital. This evening, meet your Tour Director and travel companions.
Day 2: Rome
Accommodation Name: BV Oly Hotel or Grand Fleming Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
The “Eternal City” is steeped in history, vibrantly alive and exciting, and absolutely unique! Start the included introduction to Rome’s landmarks from St. Peter’s Square with a Local Guide. Enjoy a drive along the iconic landmarks of the city: the Tiber River, the Caius Cestius Pyramid, the Aurelian Walls, and the Caracalla Baths. Complete the experience with a walk back in time from the Circus Maximus to the Arch of Constantine and to the fascinating Colosseum, symbol of the Roman Empire.
Day 3: Rome,Pisa,Montecatini
Accommodation Name: Ambasciatori Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast
Vistas of rolling hills, rows of cypress trees, terraced vineyards, olive groves, and rural villages form the backdrop of your journey through beautiful Tuscany. Stop in Pisa and take a mini-train ride to see the Square of Miracles with the amazing Leaning Tower. Arrive in Montecatini. Today’s Distance: 273 mi/ 440
Day 4: Montecatini. Excursion To Florence
Accommodation Name: Ambasciatori Palace
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, enjoy an included excursion to Florence. Your Local Guide will show you the city highlights on the walking tour. You will see Piazza Santa Croce; beautiful Piazza Signoria; Palazzo Vecchio and its courtyard and Loggia dei Lanzi. To top it all, marvel at the Piazza del Duomo and the Cathedral with the Giotto Campanile, and the magnificent East Doors of the Baptistry, known as the “Gates of Paradise.” Today’s Distance: 81 mi/ 130 km
Day 5: Montecatini,La Spezia,Cinque Terre,Genoa
Accommodation Name: Starhotels President
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel towards La Spezia, where you’ll hop aboard the train to discover some of the five spectacular Cinque Terre villages. The beauty of the rugged cliffs and romantic fishing villages once inspired poet Lord Byron. From Levanto, re-join the coach and head towards Genoa, birthplace of explorer Christopher Columbus. Today’s Distance by coach: 149 mi/ 240 km
Day 6: Genoa,Milan,Lake Maggiore
Accommodation Name: Simplon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today’s included guided tour is an excellent introduction to Genoa. A maze of squares and alleys, the city grew around the port, a natural inlet, and boasts the largest medieval historical district in Europe. Next, head north into the plains of Lombardy, and stop in Milan to marvel at its magnificent Gothic Duomo. Then, continue to Baveno on Lake Maggiore. Today’s Distance: 155 mi/ 250 km
Day 7: Lake Maggiore. Excursion To Lugano,Switzerland
Accommodation Name: Simplon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Time to relax and get to know Lake Maggiore, one of Italy’s largest lakes, located on the very edge of Alpine Switzerland. On clear days, you can see the peaks of the Alps. Take advantage of the included excursion to visit Lugano in Italian-speaking Swiss Canton Ticino. Today’s Distance: 124 mi/ 200 km
Day 8: Lake Maggiore,Verona,Venice Area
Accommodation Name: Poppi
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel across the fertile Po River plain. Stop in the romantic city of Verona for some time at leisure being awed by the Roman Arena, perfectly preserved and still hosting concerts and festivals during the summer, shopping, or tasting some of the excellent local wines. Continue to the Venice area. Today’s Distance: 236 mi/ 380 km
Day 9: Venice
Accommodation Name: Poppi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Venice is more like a romantic film set than a real-life city, with its crisscrossing canals, gondolas and water buses, arched bridges, palaces, and piazzas. The included orientation starts with a boat ride to St. Mark’s Square, and is followed by time at leisure and a chance to watch Venetian glassblowers fashion their delicate objects as they did centuries ago. Don’t miss out on the optional gondola trip, gliding along the picturesque canals with a local troubadour to serenade you.
Day 10: Venice Area,Assisi,Foligno
Accommodation Name: City Hotel & Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy an interesting drive southward right across the Po Delta, through the Emilia-Romagna region to Assisi, enclosed by ramparts and little changed since the Middle Ages. This is the town of the deeply mystical and poetic St. Francis. See the Basilica of St. Francis with its famous frescoes by Giotto, with history brought to life by a Local Guide. Overnight in Foligno, a town in the green heart of the Umbria region.Today’s Distance: 249 mi/ 400 km
Day 11: Assisi Area,Pompeii,Sorrento Coast
Accommodation Name: Central Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel to Pompeii, where time stopped for the rich, aristocratic town with the terrible eruption of Vesuvius in 79 AD. On the included guided visit of the archaeological site, see the remains of luxurious villas, temples, theatre, and forum. Carry on to Sorrento, set on a plateau above the waters of the Bay of Naples. Wander the winding streets lined with shops and stalls, and sit with a glass of wine, absorbing the easy-going lifestyle of this charming resort.Today’s Distance: 273 mi/ 440 km
Day 12: Sorrento Coast. Boat Trip To Capri
Accommodation Name: Central Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a day trip to the legendary island, surrounded by a rocky coastline where the crashing sea has formed awe-inspiring caves. The town with its pretty piazzetta, maze of streets, fashionable boutiques, and inviting restaurants, is a mecca for the jet set. Explore on your own or take an optional island tour.
Day 13: Sorrento Coast,Rome
Accommodation Name: Central Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, enjoy time at leisure or visit Positano on our exciting optional excursion, before returning to Rome. Today’s Distance: 168 mi/ 270 km
Day 14: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
-
Accommodations
Stay in a selection of hotels across Italy and Switzerland, offering comfortable rooms and amenities to ensure a restful stay.
-
Meals
Buffet breakfast daily; 4 dinners.
-
Transportation
Travel by coach between cities, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Italy and Switzerland.
-
Sightseeing Tours
Guided tours in Rome, Florence, Pompeii, and more, including visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
-
Excursions
Includes excursions to Cinque Terre, Lake Maggiore, and a boat trip to Capri.
What's Not Included
-
International Airfare
Flights to and from the tour's start and end points are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended but not included.
Please arrange for coverage before your trip. -
Optional Excursions
Optional activities and excursions are available but not included, allowing you to customize your experience.
-
Personal Expenses
Expenses for personal nature like souvenirs, laundry, and tips are not covered.
-
Some Meals
While many meals are included, some will be at your own expense, giving you the flexibility to explore local dining options.
Meals
Buffet breakfast daily; 4 dinners
UNESCO Sites
Archeological Site of Pompeii|Assisi (the Basilica of San Francesco)|Cinque Terre|City of Verona|Early Christian monuments of Ravenna|Genoa old city and Palazzi dei Rolli|Historic Centre of Florence|Historic Centre of Rome - various properties Vatican City|Piazza del Duomo Pisa|The great Spa Towns of Europe - Montecatini|Vatican City|Venice and its Lagoon
Accommodation
BV Oly Hotel
This 103-room property is located in a quiet area of Rome's business district, just a short walk away from San Paolo Metro Station. A smart contemporary dining room offers typical regional dishes and Free Wi-Fi access is provided throughout.
Ambasciatori Palace
Located close to the spa baths, park and town centre and thanks to its geographical position, this elegant hotel offers the most beautiful panoramic view over Montecatini Terme, Montecatini Alto and the surrounding Tuscan hills. Built to encompass a contemporary style, the hotel provides modern and comfortable areas, as well as a cozy rooftop terrace with seasonal swimming pool and sunbeds. The terrace is also served by the in-house bars and restaurants and can be used for a relaxing dinner. Large, welcoming guest rooms are tastefully furnished and equipped with balconies, LCD TV set, satellite channels, Free Wi-Fi, individual AC system, safe box, mini bar and complimentary toiletries..
Starhotels President
The Starhotels President is located in the heart of Genoa, a short walk away from the Fiera Fairgrounds and Brignole train station. The Corte Lambruschini Business Center can be found near the centre of the shopping street.
Simplon
Nestling in a magnificent ancient park of twenty thousand square meters, with its characteristic pink facade recalling the color of the famous local marble, the Simplon is the ideal solution for guests looking for a relaxing stay.
Poppi
Situated on the Riviera del Brenta and founded in 1965,the hotel is still family run. hotel Poppi offers 100 rooms and a renowned restaurant.
City Hotel & Suites
An 88-room modern property located in the very heart of Umbria, close to the beautiful historical city center with easy access to Assisi, Perugia, Gubbio and Spoleto. The buffet breakfast offers home made specialities and Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout.
Central Park
The hotel is located in one of the most beautiful and enchanting corners of Massalubrense and the Sorrento Peninsula. It's surrounded by a green oasis of citrus and orange groves and overlooks the magnificent bay of Naples with a view of the islands of Capri and Ischia. All rooms, equipped with a TV and a desk, are air-conditioned and they have a private bathroom with free toiletries. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi, free parking, a restaurant, and an outdoor swimming pool.
Grand Fleming Hotel
Modern hotel offering popular amenities and comforts, restaurant and bar is located 40 km from FCO Airport; staff is multilingual.
Check out our Q&As
-
What countries does the tour visit?
The tour visits Italy and Switzerland.
-
What are the highlights of the tour?
Highlights of the tour include exploring ancient Rome, discovering Tuscany, experiencing Cinque Terre, relaxing at Lake Maggiore with an excursion to Lugano, and visiting the archaeological site of Pompeii with a boat trip to Capri.
-
What type of accommodations are provided?
Accommodations include a selection of hotels across Italy and Switzerland, such as BV Oly Hotel, Ambasciatori Palace, Starhotels President, Simplon, Poppi, City Hotel & Suites, Central Park, and Grand Fleming Hotel.
-
What meals are included?
The tour includes buffet breakfast daily and 4 dinners.
-
What type of transportation is used on the tour?
Transportation includes travel by coach between cities.
-
Are there any UNESCO Sites visited on this tour?
Yes, UNESCO Sites visited include the Archeological Site of Pompeii, Assisi (the Basilica of San Francesco), Cinque Terre, City of Verona, Early Christian monuments of Ravenna, Genoa old city and Palazzi dei Rolli, Historic Centre of Florence, Historic Centre of Rome - various properties Vatican City, Piazza del Duomo Pisa, The great Spa Towns of Europe - Montecatini, Vatican City, and Venice and its Lagoon.
-
What are the exclusions?
Exclusions include international airfare, travel insurance, optional excursions, personal expenses, and some meals.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
-
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.1 Select your preferred date
2024 Mar
2025 Apr
2025 May
2025 Jun
2025 Jul
2025 Aug
2025 Sep
2025 Oct
2025 Nov
2025 Dec
2025 Mar
2026 Apr
2026 May
2026 Jun
2026 Jul
2026 Aug
2026 Sep
2026 Oct
2026 Nov
2026 Dec
2026
Sunday - Saturday
Nov 17, 2024 - Nov 30, 2024Sunday - Saturday
Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 26, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Apr 27, 2025 - May 10, 2025Sunday - Saturday
May 04, 2025 - May 17, 2025Sunday - Saturday
May 11, 2025 - May 24, 2025Sunday - Saturday
May 18, 2025 - May 31, 2025Sunday - Saturday
May 25, 2025 - Jun 07, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 14, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 21, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Jun 15, 2025 - Jun 28, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Jun 22, 2025 - Jul 05, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 12, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Jul 13, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Aug 10, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Aug 24, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Aug 31, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 27, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Sep 21, 2025 - Oct 04, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 11, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 18, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 25, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 15, 2025Sunday - Saturday
Nov 16, 2025 - Nov 29, 2025Wednesday - Tuesday
Dec 24, 2025 - Jan 06, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Mar 29, 2026 - Apr 11, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Apr 12, 2026 - Apr 25, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Apr 26, 2026 - May 09, 2026Sunday - Saturday
May 03, 2026 - May 16, 2026Sunday - Saturday
May 10, 2026 - May 23, 2026Sunday - Saturday
May 17, 2026 - May 30, 2026Sunday - Saturday
May 24, 2026 - Jun 06, 2026Sunday - Saturday
May 31, 2026 - Jun 13, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Jun 07, 2026 - Jun 20, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Jun 14, 2026 - Jun 27, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Jun 21, 2026 - Jul 04, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Jun 28, 2026 - Jul 11, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Jul 12, 2026 - Jul 25, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Aug 09, 2026 - Aug 22, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Aug 23, 2026 - Sep 05, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Aug 30, 2026 - Sep 12, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Sep 06, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Sep 13, 2026 - Sep 26, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Sep 20, 2026 - Oct 03, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Sep 27, 2026 - Oct 10, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Oct 04, 2026 - Oct 17, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Oct 11, 2026 - Oct 24, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Nov 01, 2026 - Nov 14, 2026Sunday - Saturday
Nov 15, 2026 - Nov 28, 2026Thursday - Wednesday
Dec 24, 2026 - Jan 06, 2027What are travellers saying about Tourhub
Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Why book with tourhub?
Safe & Secure
Your money is held in a dedicated client account until you travel.
100% Guaranteed Refunds if your trip is cancelled.
The safest way to make overseas, multi-currency payments.
Guaranteed Best Value
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
No cancellation or amendment fees from tourhub.
(Operator terms may apply)
Expert Knowledge
Reliable & unbiased advice from travel experts.
Direct contact with the tour operator via our messaging service.
Inspiration & advice from a community of 6000+ real travellers, influencers & content creators.
Trusted Service
Official partners & licensed agents of 1000+ tour operators worldwide.
Don't just take our word for it...
"Tourhub: Friendliness, Professionalism & Integrity I would happily give tourhub a 6* review if I could..."