Grand Italy & Sicily - Small Group

Grand Italy & Sicily - Small Group

9 Views
17 Days From

$8550

$8048

Grand Italy & Sicily - Small Group

17 Days Starting in Rome, Italy and ending in Palermo, Italy

Visiting: Rome, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Lake Maggiore, Venice, Florence, Pompeii, Capri, Matera, Alberobello, Taormina, Palermo

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SE921ZM20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

From: $8550 $8048 Operator discount: -$240 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$262

NB: Prices correct on 31-Oct-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Italy and Sicily with the "Grand Italy & Sicily - Small Group" tour. This cultural adventure begins in the Eternal City of Rome, where you'll explore ancient treasures and savor authentic Roman cuisine. Discover the iconic Leaning Tower in Pisa, the charming fishing villages of Cinque Terre, and the elegance of Portofino. Experience the magic of Venice with a gondola ride and a glassblowing demonstration. In Florence, choose between admiring Michelangelo's 'David' or indulging in local treats. Journey through the historic streets of Pompeii, the stunning Isle of Capri, and the unique trulli of Alberobello. Cross to Sicily to explore the ancient Greek Amphitheatre in Taormina and the vibrant city of Palermo. With expert guides, authentic dining experiences, and breathtaking landscapes, this tour offers a rich tapestry of Italy's cultural and historical wonders.

Highlights

  • Florence: Stand beside Michelangelo's monumental statue, 'David', in the Accademia Gallery.

  • Rome: Discover ancient treasures with a local guide, including Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum.

  • Pisa: Visit the famous Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles.

  • Cinque Terre: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and its charming fishing villages.

  • Venice: Cruise to St. Mark's Square and glide along the canals by gondola.

  • Pompeii: Walk through the preserved streets of this ancient town with a local expert.

  • Capri: Cruise to the isle and explore Capri town with its whitewashed houses and boutiques.

  • Taormina: Visit the ancient Greek Amphitheatre with views of Mount Etna.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To The Eternal City Of Rome

Location: Rome

Accommodation: Hotel St. Martin, Rome.

Accommodation Name: Hotel St. Martin, Rome

Meals Included: Dinner

Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and baroque churches. Settle in before joining your Travel Director for a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. End the day getting to know your fellow travellers over Roman specialties during dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Vatican City And Rome With A Local

Location: Rome

Accommodation: Hotel St. Martin, Rome.

Accommodation Name: Hotel St. Martin, Rome

Meals Included: Breakfast

Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth experience bringing millennia of history to life. Journey from the Vatican City across the Tiber river to ancient Rome. See the incredible Circus Maximus. Admire the beautifully preserved Arch of Constantine and discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum on a guided visit. As you stroll with your Local Expert, imagine the gladiatorial battles and roaring spectators around the arena. Later, perhaps continue your exploration of Rome to see the Pantheon and the stunning piazzas and fountains of Rome.

Day 3: Pisa And Santa Margherita Ligure

Location: Pisa

Accommodation: Best Western Regina Elena, Santa Margherita Ligure.

Accommodation Name: Best Western Regina Elena, Santa Margherita Ligure

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a delightful drive to Pisa through rolling countryside dotted with cypress trees, passing vineyards and olive groves. With a Local Expert, view the incredible Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles from which Galileo is said to have conducted experiments on velocity and gravity. See the splendid cathedral and baptistery, decorated with mosaics and designs in solid marble. Your journey continues to the pretty seaside resort of Santa Margherita Ligure.

Day 4: The Charms Of The Cinque Terre

Location: Cinque Terre

Accommodation: Best Western Regina Elena, Santa Margherita Ligure.

Accommodation Name: Best Western Regina Elena, Santa Margherita Ligure

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head to the famous Cinque Terre, which translates to Five Lands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located on a gorgeously wild yet hospitable part of the coastline. With a Local Expert, approach one of the fishing villages by boat (weather permitting). In Monterosso, spend some time exploring the medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach before continuing to the village of Portofino, famed for its colourful houses. Browse the boutiques and stay a while in the cafe bars on the piazzetta, watching the yachts moored in the harbour. Then cruise along the rugged Ligurian coast to your hotel in the resort of Santa Margherita.

Day 5: Lake Maggiore Relaxed Start

Location: Lake Maggiore

Accommodation: Hotel Simplon, Baveno.

Accommodation Name: Simplon, Baveno

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head north to beautiful Lake Maggiore in the Italian Lakes District and the town of Baveno, noted for its narrow cobbled streets and charming square. On arrival, settle into your hotel and take in the magical scenery. In the afternoon, why not join an Optional Experience cruise to Isola Bella to explore the palace and admire the stunning and immaculate Italian style gardens.

Day 6: On To Venice Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation: NH Venezia Rio Novo.

Accommodation Name: Indigo - Sant'Elena, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your travels continue past the Soave vineyards, the City of Padua and on to the canals of Venice. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner with your travelling companions.

Day 7: Venice And The Magic Of La Serenissima Relaxed Start

Location: Venice

Accommodation: NH Venezia Rio Novo.

Accommodation Name: Indigo - Sant'Elena, Venice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cruise by private boat on a journey of discovery past churches and palaces reflecting the rich architectural history of Venice from the 13th to the 18th centuries. Marvel at the intricate façades and learn about the stories behind these historical buildings. Arrive close to St Mark's Square and stroll along the waterfront, passing the iconic Bridge of Sighs and the majestic Doge's Palace. It was from here that the infamous Casanova made his daring escape. Turn the corner into St Mark's Square and be captivated by the grandeur of the basilica. Afterwards, board a traditional gondola for a serenade along the romantic canals. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and witness the artistry of expert glassblowers as they create beautiful, handcrafted glass pieces, preserving centuries-old techniques and traditions.

Day 8: A Scenic Journey To Florence

Location: Florence

Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli.

Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli

Meals Included: Breakfast

Bid farewell to Venice and begin your journey to Renaissance Florence. Explore Florence with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the Accademia Museum and see Michelangelo’s David. After, continue on foot to admire the Multi-coloured marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, where Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been recreated in all their glory. Continue into the Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at statues such as Neptune, Hercules and Cacus along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. Alternatively, take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce to enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local caffè, where you will be in the perfect spot to admire the basilica, indulge in people-watching the elegant Florentines and pamper yourself shopping for luxury goods like gold and leather. Enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner paired with delicious local wine, a specialty not to be missed.

Day 9: Florence, Birthplace Of The Renaissance Relaxed Start

Location: Florence

Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli.

Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start the day with a traditional Florentine leather-work demonstration, then there is plenty of time to shop with the rest of the day at your leisure. Perhaps join an optional experience to explore the hilltop town of San Gimignano?

Day 10: Ill-Fated Pompeii And On To Sorrento

Location: Pompeii

Accommodation: Hotel Isabella, Sorrento.

Accommodation Name: Isabella, Sorrento

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey south through the volcanic hills of Frascati to Pompeii, which was buried in A.D. 79 by Mount Vesuvius' catastrophic eruption. Walk with a Local Expert through the preserved cobbled streets for a glimpse into the daily life of civilisation during the Roman Empire. Follow the clifftop road to the resort town of Sorrento, overlooking the Bay of Naples.

Day 11: Capri, The Isle Of Dreams

Location: Capri

Accommodation: Hotel Isabella, Sorrento.

Accommodation Name: Isabella, Sorrento

Meals Included: Breakfast

Meet your Local Expert and cross the Bay of Naples to reach the beautiful Isle of Capri, a rock rising sheer from the Mediterranean! For 2,000 years, Capri has beckoned visitors from Tiberius Caesar to Gracie Fields. Arriving at the Marina Grande by boat, ascend to Capri town. Explore the narrow alleyways and descend to the port by funicular railway for the return to Sorrento. Later, perhaps explore the Amalfi Coast?

Day 12: Sassi Di Matera And Alberobello

Location: Matera

Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello.

Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, discover two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. First, visit Matera for an in-depth guided exploration of the extraordinary Sassi, ancient troglodyte dwellings and churches dug out of the rock. These are the most extensive example of their kind in the Mediterranean and were inhabited by about 20,000 people up until the 1950s. Matera was also used as the setting for the film 'The Passion of the Christ'. Continue to Alberobello, the second UNESCO World Heritage Site, and your home for the next two nights.

Day 13: The Trulli Of Alberobello Relaxed Start

Location: Alberobello

Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello.

Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello

Meals Included: Breakfast

Admire another of Italy's record number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a Local Expert. The trulli of Alberobello are circular structures with conical roofs that are domed within. They are built from local limestone and stacked without using mortar. In the evening, delight at the freshly prepared Farm to Table dinner. Enjoy a typical meal and learn about life in the region through the local food.

Day 14: Sicily And The Taormina Riviera

Location: Taormina

Accommodation: RG Naxos Hotel, Taormina.

Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA

Meals Included: Breakfast

The local roads will take you south, following the shores of the Gulf of Taranto to the mountainous Calabria region. Travel along the Purple Coast to the very 'toe' of Italy and board your ferry bound for Sicily. According to ancient legend, it was here at the Straits of Messina where the twin whirlpools of Scylla and Charybdis carried unwary seafarers away to their doom! After disembarking, continue to the Taormina Riviera.

Day 15: Taormina And The Dawn Coast Of Europe Relaxed Start

Location: Taormina

Accommodation: RG Naxos Hotel, Taormina.

Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend the day at leisure to enjoy at your own pace. Perhaps join an optional experience to Mt. Etna?

Day 16: Palermo, Capital Of Sicily

Location: Palermo

Accommodation: NH Palermo.

Accommodation Name: Astoria Palace, Palermo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Head to the Sicilian capital of Palermo. On arrival, your Local Expert will show you the highlights of the capital. Palermo Cathedral has been altered over the years and a venture inside will help you to appreciate the composite architectural styles. Next, head to the amazing Palatine Chapel in the Palace of the Normans. With the outside completely covered in glittering ancient mosaics, it provides an insight to what's within. Join your travelling companions and Travel Director at a local restaurant for an unforgettable dinner of delicious local cuisine and wine.

Day 17: Depart Palermo

Location: Palermo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your journey draws to an end. Departure transfers arrive at Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport.

What's Included

  • Choice Highlights

    Choose between two carefully selected activities in Florence, including standing beside Michelangelo's monumental statue, 'David', in the Accademia Gallery, or taking a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce.

  • Top Rated Highlights

    Discover ancient treasures of Rome, visit the Leaning Tower in Pisa, explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Cinque Terre, and enjoy a gondola ride in Venice, among other highlights.

  • Make Travel Matter

    Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing in Venice, supporting the survival of this traditional craft and contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.

  • Authentic Dining

    Savour dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, enjoy a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner in Florence, and experience local customs with rustic dishes served with local wine in Palermo.

  • Dining Summary

    The tour includes 1 Dinner, 16 Breakfasts, and 7 Dinners with Wine.

  • Additional Included Highlights

    Personal radio headsets, hotel and restaurant tips, taxes and porterage charges, luggage handling, complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi, and scheduled transfers are included.

  • Insight Experiences

    Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome during an after-hours visit, admiring the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics.

  • Well-being

    Travel in comfort with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom, onboard washroom, and physical distancing measures.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Experiences

    Optional experiences such as a cruise to Isola Bella, exploring the Amalfi Coast, or visiting Mt.

    Etna are not included in the tour package.

  • Transfers Outside Scheduled Times

    Transfers are only available at scheduled times.

    If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Dining Summary

  • 1 Dinner (D)
  • 16 Breakfast (B)
  • 7 Dinner with Wine (DW)

Additional Included Highlights

  • Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
  • Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
  • We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
  • From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
  • Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
  • If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Insight Experiences

  • Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.

Well-being

  • Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
  • Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach offering double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Enjoy private boat cruises in Venice and ferry rides to Sicily, ensuring a comfortable and scenic journey throughout Italy and Sicily.

Accommodation

Experience comfort and elegance at Hotel St. Martin in Rome, Best Western Regina Elena in Santa Margherita Ligure, and Simplon in Baveno. Enjoy the luxurious Indigo - Sant'Elena in Venice, Hilton Garden Inn Florence Novoli, and Isabella in Sorrento. Stay at Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri in Alberobello and Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA in Taormina, concluding at Astoria Palace in Palermo.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experience does the tour offer in Venice?

    In Venice, the tour offers a unique experience of witnessing the ancient skill of glassblowing. Visitors can watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices, supporting the survival of this traditional craft.

  • What can I expect during the visit to the Vatican City and Rome?

    During the visit to Vatican City and Rome, you will join a Local Expert for an in-depth experience that brings millennia of history to life. You will journey from the Vatican City across the Tiber river to ancient Rome, see the Circus Maximus, and have a guided visit to the Colosseum, imagining the gladiatorial battles and roaring spectators.

  • What is special about the visit to Pompeii on this tour?

    The visit to Pompeii includes a guided walk with a Local Expert through the preserved cobbled streets, offering a glimpse into the daily life of civilization during the Roman Empire, as the town was frozen in time since the first century.

  • How does the tour explore the Cinque Terre?

    The tour explores the Cinque Terre with a Local Expert, approaching one of the fishing villages by boat, weather permitting. In Monterosso, you can explore the medieval quarter or the popular sandy beach before continuing to the village of Portofino.

  • What dining experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes several authentic dining experiences such as a dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant in Rome, a traditional Bistecca alla Fiorentina steak dinner in Florence, a freshly prepared Farm-to-Table meal in Alberobello, and a dinner with local cuisine and wine in Palermo.

  • What is the significance of the visit to Matera on this tour?

    The visit to Matera includes an in-depth guided exploration of the extraordinary Sassi, ancient troglodyte dwellings and churches dug out of the rock, which are the most extensive example of their kind in the Mediterranean and were inhabited until the 1950s.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Sunday

Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
$8575 $8072

Operator discount: -$240

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$263

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Operator discount: -$240

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$276

Friday - Sunday

Jul 25, 2025 - Aug 10, 2025
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Operator discount: -$240

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$262

Friday - Sunday

Aug 08, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025
$8575 $8072

Operator discount: -$240

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$263

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  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD 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 insight vacations 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.

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