Discover the History, Beauty & Cuisine of Italy, Including a Cruise on Lake Como

From the Roman Colosseum to Venice’s legendary St Mark’s Square, soak up Italy’s most famous sights on a comprehensive 15-day tour, including all accommodation and sightseeing organised for you.

What You’ll Love…

The Tour – Ancient ruins, authentic Italian cuisine, coastal scenery and Tuscan countryside

The city of Rome is the gift that keeps on giving with its countless ancient relics and opulent gilt-lined churches hidden down unassuming streets. Take in the sights of this incredible city, including the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, the Vatican Museums, Michelangelo’s masterpiece the Sistine Chapel and more.

Venice is one of the most romantic destinations on earth with its bridges, canals lined with gondolas and opulent architecture. Lose yourself in this most stunning of cities, taking in the famous St. Mark’s Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the pink marble Doge’s Palace, plus see where Murano glass is made.

Travel to beautiful Florence, the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, and behold treasures including Michelangelo’s David, the magnificent Duomo, the Gates of Paradise and more.

Visit the setting where the story of Shakespeare’s star-crossed lovers played out – fair Verona – a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site and an incredible example of a fortified city.

The Amalfi coast is renowned as one of the world’s most spectacular drives, and for good reason: you’ll take in charming villages, pretty lemon groves and whitewashed villas, which teeter on the mountains thousands of feet above azure seas, en route to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Amalfi.

Visit the seaside Sorrento in the Bay of Naples, a long-time favourite of artists and poets who’ve taken inspiration from its the historic architecture, marinas and café-lined square.

Take to the waters of Lake Como with a scenic cruise, arriving at the village of Bellagio nestled amongst the Cypress groves - the ‘Pearl of Lake Como’ - where you can wander the narrow streets and alleyways browsing the boutiques and cafes.

Soak up views of the Tuscan countryside en route to Lucca where history awaits at every turn within the city’s 17th century walls, before visiting the world-famous thermal baths of Montecatini.

Visit the ancient city of Pompeii, buried by a volcano that erupted nearly two thousand years ago, where the ruins of the Forum and Temples of Apollo and Jupiter can be seen today.

Your Package Includes:

• Premium nightly accommodation
• 22 meals across the duration of the tour, including daily breakfast, one lunch and seven dinners with wine
• Sightseeing on a modern, air-conditioned coach with comfortable wireless headphones
• The services of an English-speaking tour manager and local guides in all major cities
• Entrance fees for destinations listed in the itinerary
• Italian city hotel taxes, fees and service charges
• Hotel porterage

Add another layer of Middle Eastern luxury with a three, five or seven-night stay at Dubai’s most opulent beachfront oasis—One&Only Royal Mirage. Experience the glamour of this must-visit destination and live large in a grandiose Arabian Court Deluxe Room. Plus daily breakfast, lavish nightly dinner, a complimentary drink at any of the elegant bars and lounges within the resort, spa discounts and more. Plus receive x5 bonus Qantas Frequent Flyer Points! Click here to see the incredible Luxury Escapes package. “>Click here to see the incredible Luxury Escapes package.

The tour begins in Milan and ends in Rome.

International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. Flights to Milan are available from major Australian cities with one or more stops en route. Carriers include Thai Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas, Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia.

Flights depart regularly from major gateways including Singapore (approx flight time of 13 hours), Hong Kong (approx flight time of 12.5 hours), Dubai (approx flight time of 6.5 hours) and Bangkok (approx flight time 12 hours).

Need Flights? We have a dedicated team who are able to assist with all your flight requirements. If you need a stopover or are looking at travelling to more destinations, our team can help. Contact our flights concierge team using the phone number on our website.

Please note your itinerary will change slightyl depending on your day of departure.

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SUNDAY DEPARTURES:

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DAY 1, Sunday - Arrive in Milan, Transfer to Como

Arrive in Milan and then transfer to your hotel in the town of Como, home to exquisite Lago di Como, one of Italy’s most romantic destinations. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Tonight, a briefing with your Tour Manager about the wonderful journey that awaits you in Italy, followed by a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travelers at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Como

Meals: Dinner

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DAY 2, Monday - Cross Lake Como to the village of Bellagio

Today, a scenic morning cruise on Lake Como to the charming village of Bellagio, termed one of the most beautiful towns in Italy and “The Pearl” of Lake Como. Nestled amidst cypress groves, its earthy-colored buildings climb up from the lakeside promenade. Wander along the narrow streets and alleyways, lined with craft shops, boutiques and cafés. Or, visit some of the gorgeous gardens with manicured lawns and fountains at Villa Melzi or Villa Serbelloni. Sail back to Como in the afternoon with time to experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views, wonderful restaurants, and boutiques.

Overnight: Como

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 3, Tuesday - Verona Walking Tour, Travel to Venice

After breakfast, set out for Verona, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its urban structure and architecture that developed progressively and without interruption during the last 2000 years, representing the best example of fortified city. Enjoy an orientation tour of the city followed by free time to savor the atmosphere here. Continue to Venice for dinner and overnight

Overnight: Venice

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

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DAY 4, Wednesday - Boat Ride to Murano, Tour of Venice

The discovery of Venice begins with a boat ride to the Island of Murano, known for its artistic and colorful Murano glassware. While here, enjoy a visit to one of the factories to witness the art of glassblowing. Afterward, on to St. Mark’s Square by boat, where the guided walking tour of this romantic city begins. View the Golden Basilica of San Marco, built over several centuries in a fusion of Byzantine, Roman and Venetian architecture. Walk via the Bridge of Sighs, created at the beginning of the 17th century to serve as a link between prisons. Then, continue to the pink marble Doge’s Palace, the official residence of the Venetian ruler; its facade is highlighted by a massive late-Gothic gate, known as the Porta della Carta. The rest of the day is yours to explore Venice independently, or, participate in this afternoon’s optional Gondola Ride with music - it’s definitely one of the highlights of any Italian holiday!

Optional: Gondola Ride with Music (PM)

Overnight: Venice

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 5, Thursday - Tour Lucca en route to Montecatini

Magnificent panoramas are waiting for you today as you travel through the rolling Tuscan countryside dotted with olive and fig trees to Lucca, a jewel of medieval architecture, with its massive 17th century walls that completely surround the city. Walk along the winding streets of the original Roman grid revealing layers of history at every turn. Arrive at the Church of San Michele adorned by its beautiful piazza, occupying the site of the ancient Roman Forum. Then, on to Montecatini, the spa center of Italy, known for its world-famous thermal baths.

Overnight: Montecatini

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

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DAY 6, Friday - Full Day in Montecatini

Full day at leisure to explore Montecatini and its surroundings on your own, or take an optional tour to the spectacular Cinque Terre*, one of the most beautiful areas of the Liguria region. Here five small villages, nestled in the cliffs overlooking the sea and the surrounding hillsides, are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the scenic coastline while exploring the villages and the beautiful vistas. This active walking tour covers a fair amount of ground facing uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. Trains and/or boats will be the means of transportation between the towns.

* Exact tour itinerary & operation of the tour is subject to weather conditions and group size and will be advised locally

Optional: Full Day Cinque Terre

Overnight: Montecatini

Meals: Breakfast

​

DAY 7, Saturday - Full Day in Montecatini

Enjoy the morning at leisure in Montecatini,* or participate in the optional tour to the lovely medieval city of Siena that sits over three hills. The heart of the city is Il Campo, the huge central plaza where the Roman forum used to be, site of the famous Horse Race of Palio. After a walking tour of the highlights of the city, spend time at leisure before returning to Montecatini. This evening indulge in the Tuscan atmosphere, its food and its wines!

Optional: Full Day Siena Tour

Overnight: Montecatini

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

​

DAY 8, Sunday - Excursion to Florence

Today, travel to Florence, birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Upon arrival, start with the Accademia of Fine Arts, where Michelangelo’s David is housed; stand in awe of this glorious work of art. Then, walk to the impressive Duomo celebrated for its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi, and view the Baptistery’s renowned “Gates of Paradise” by Ghiberti. From here, continue to the open-air museum of Signoria Square, ending at the splendid Ponte Vecchio, also known as the “Old Bridge”. Return to Montecatini and enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Overnight: Montecatini

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

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DAY 9, Monday - Travel towards the Sunny South

Depart Montecatini, driving south. Along the way, stop for lunch in the hills of Lazio. Then, on to the Gulf of Naples, where you are welcomed by the spectacular panoramic views and by the sapphire blue waters. Tonight, a dinner together highlights your arrival in Sorrento.

Overnight: Sorrento

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

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DAY 10, Tuesday - Full Day in Sorrento

A day at leisure in picturesque Sorrento, strikingly beautiful with its seaside setting and soaring cliffs plunging into the sea. As you stroll along the coastal road and through the charming town, you’ll understand why this town has long been loved by poets and artists. Don’t miss the optional full day tour to the enchanting and picturesque Isle of Capri by boat - it will be a highlight! Here, you’ll walk through the narrow lanes of Anacapri, with its chic boutiques and shops offering tastings of the island’s famous Limoncello. Then, to La Piazzetta (Piazza Umberto I) where everyone gathers to socialize and to the Gardens of Augustus, towards the top of the island, a natural paradise, from where you can see splendid views of the sea and the famous Faraglioni rock formations, one of the island’s natural wonders. After a lovely day in Capri, return to Sorrento and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Optional: Full Day Capri Tour

Overnight: Sorrento

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 11, Wednesday - The Gorgeous Amalfi Drive

A fantastic day as you drive along the rugged Amalfi coast, undoubtedly one of the most spectacular drives in the world, with its dramatic landscapes and amazing panoramas. Nestled into mountains which rise thousands of feet above the sea, you’ll see enchanting villages, cliffs terraced with lemon groves, whitewashed villas and sparkling turquoise seas. Drive by Positano and stop in Amalfi, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to spend time at leisure in town. Return to Sorrento in time for dinner.

Overnight: Sorrento

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

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DAY 12, Thursday - Visit Pompeii en route to Rome

Depart Sorrento and head towards Rome. On the way, visit Pompeii, the city that was frozen in time under a thick carpet of volcanic ash almost 2,000 years ago. The tragic fossils of people attempting to escape, along with their children and dogs, are still visible, along with the preserved ruins of the Temples of Apollo and Jupiter, and the Forum. Continue north, passing the magnificent Abbey of Monte Cassino, perched high on the mountaintop, scene of a huge battle near the end of World War II in which the abbey was completely destroyed, but has now been lovingly restored. Then, onto Rome, the astonishing city that combines modern city life with ancient wonders.

Overnight: Rome

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 13, Friday - Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel

Today, visit the Vatican Museums and Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel. Stroll through one of the most important art collections of the world. Admire the Gallery of Tapestries and the Geographical Maps before arriving to the Sistine Chapel, with its great frescoes by Michelangelo. Continue to St. Peter’s Square, passing Bernini’s famous colonnade to view St. Peter’s Basilica,* built on the burial site of Saint Peter, with the most famous Michelangelo’s Pieta. Spend the afternoon at leisure, or join the optional walking tour of the Eternal City’s grand piazzas that includes the Spanish Steps, the legendary Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the baroque Piazza Navona.

*Due to Religious events, the opening times of St. Peter Basilica are subject to change without notice. In these cases, you will visit the Vatican Library instead of the Basilica.

Optional: Piazzas of Rome (PM)

Overnight: Rome

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 14, Saturday - Tour Ancient Rome

The historic tour of ancient Rome begins at the legendary Roman Forum, the central area of the city from which ancient Rome developed. Next, view the triumphal Arch of Constantine, erected by the Roman Senate to commemorate Constantine’s tenth year of leadership over the Eternal City. On to the mighty Colosseum, the largest amphitheater built in the Roman Empire that seated over 50,000, where gladiator contests and public events were attended by the rich, the poor and by the Emperor himself. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Tonight, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a Farewell Cocktail at the hotel.

Overnight: Rome

Meals: Breakfast

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DAY 15, Sunday - Depart Italy

Your tour ends this morning after breakfast.

Meals: Breakfast

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THURSDAY DEPARTURES:

​

DAY 1, Thursday - Arrive in Milan, Transfer to Como

Arrive in Milan and then transfer to your hotel in the town of Como, home to exquisite Lago di Como, one of Italy’s most romantic destinations. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager about the wonderful journey that awaits you in Italy, followed by a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travelers at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Como

Meals: Dinner

​

DAY 2, Friday - Cross Lake Como to the village of Bellagio

Today, a scenic morning cruise on Lake Como to the charming village of Bellagio, termed one of the most beautiful towns in Italy and “The Pearl” of Lake Como. Nestled amidst cypress groves, its earthy-colored buildings climb up from the lakeside promenade. Wander along the narrow streets and alleyways, lined with craft shops, boutiques and cafés. Or, visit some of the gorgeous gardens with manicured lawns and fountains at Villa Melzi or Villa Serbelloni. Sail back to Como in the afternoon with time to experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views, wonderful restaurants, and boutiques.

Overnight: Como

Meals: Breakfast

​

DAY 3, Saturday - Verona Walking Tour, Travel to Venice

After breakfast, set out for Verona, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its urban structure and architecture that developed progressively and without interruption during the last 2000 years, representing the best example of fortified city. Enjoy an orientation tour of the city followed by free time to savor the atmosphere here. Continue to Venice for dinner and overnight.

Overnight: Venice

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

​

DAY 4, Sunday - Boat Ride to Murano, Tour of Venice

The discovery of Venice begins with a visit to one of Murano’s factories, known for its artistic and colorful Murano glassware. Here you will witness the art of glassblowing. Afterward, on to St. Mark’s Square by boat, where the guided walking tour of this romantic city begins. View the Golden Basilica of San Marco, built over several centuries in a fusion of Byzantine, Roman and Venetian architecture. Walk via the Bridge of Sighs, created at the beginning of the 17th century to serve as a link between prisons. Then, continue to visit the pink marble Doge’s Palace, the official residence of the Venetian ruler; its facade is highlighted by a massive late-Gothic gate, known as the Porta della Carta. The rest of the day is yours to explore Venice independently, or participate in this afternoon’s optional Gondola Ride with music - it’s definitely one of the highlights of any Italian holiday!

Optional: Gondola Ride with Music (PM)

Overnight: Venice

Meals: Breakfast

​

DAY 5, Monday - Tour Lucca en route to Montecatini

Magnificent panoramas are waiting for you today as you travel through the rolling Tuscan countryside dotted with olive and fig trees to Lucca, a jewel of medieval architecture, with its massive 17th century walls that completely surround the city. Walk along the winding streets of the original Roman grid revealing layers of history at every turn. Arrive at the Church of San Michele adorned by its beautiful piazza, occupying the site of the ancient Roman Forum. Then, on to Montecatini, the spa center of Italy, known for its world-famous thermal baths.

Overnight: Montecatini

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

​

DAY 6, Tuesday - Full Day in Montecatini

Full day at leisure to explore Montecatini and its surroundings on your own or take an optional tour to the spectacular Cinque Terre, one of the most beautiful areas of the Liguria region. Here five small villages, nestled in the cliffs overlooking the sea and the surrounding hillsides, are all part of the Cinque Terre National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the scenic coastline while exploring the villages and the beautiful vistas. This active walking tour covers a fair amount of ground facing uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. Trains and/or boats will be the means of transportation between the towns.

* Exact tour itinerary & operation of the tour is subject to weather conditions and group size and will be advised locally.

Optional: Full Day Cinque Terre

Overnight: Montecatini

Meals: Breakfast

​

DAY 7, Wednesday - Full Day in Montecatini

Enjoy the morning at leisure in Montecatini, or participate in the optional tour to the lovely medieval city of Siena that sits over three hills. The heart of the city is Il Campo, the huge central plaza where the Roman forum used to be, site of the famous Horse Race of Palio. After a walking tour of the highlights of the city, spend time at leisure before returning to Montecatini. This evening indulge in the Tuscan atmosphere, its food, and its wines!

Optional: Full Day Siena Tour

Overnight: Montecatini

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

​

DAY 8, Thursday - Excursion to Florence

Today, travel to Florence, birthplace of the Italian Renaissance. Upon arrival, start with the Accademia of Fine Arts, where Michelangelo’s David is housed; stand in awe of this glorious work of art. Then, walk to the impressive Duomo, celebrated for its magnificent dome designed by Brunelleschi, and view the Baptistery’s renowned “Gates of Paradise” by Ghiberti. From here, continue to the open-air museum of Signoria Square, ending at the splendid Ponte Vecchio, also known as the “Old Bridge”. Return to Montecatini and enjoy dinner at your hotel.

Overnight: Montecatini

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

​

DAY 9, Friday - Travel to the Sunny South

Depart Montecatini, driving south. Along the way, stop for lunch in the hills of Lazio. Then, on to the Gulf of Naples, where you are welcomed by the spectacular panoramic views and by the sapphire blue waters. Tonight, a lovely dinner together highlights your arrival in Naples.

Overnight: Naples

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

​

DAY 10, Saturday - The Gorgeous Amalfi Drive

A fantastic day as you drive along the rugged Amalfi coast, undoubtedly one of the most spectacular drives in the world, with its dramatic landscapes and amazing panoramas. Nestled into mountains which rise thousands of feet above the sea, you’ll see enchanting villages, cliffs terraced with lemon groves, whitewashed villas and sparkling turquoise seas. Drive by Positano and stop in Amalfi, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to spend time at leisure in town. Return to Naples and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Overnight: Naples

Meals: Breakfast

​

DAY 11, Sunday - Full Day in Naples

A day at leisure in picturesque Naples, strikingly beautiful with its seaside setting. Don’t miss the optional full day tour to the enchanting and picturesque Isle of Capri by boat - it will be a highlight! Here, you’ll walk through the narrow lanes of Anacapri, with its chic boutiques and shops offering tastings of the island’s famous Limoncello. Then, to La Piazzetta (Piazza Umberto I) where everyone gathers to socialize and to the Gardens of Augustus, towards the top of the island, a natural paradise, from where you can see splendid views of the sea and the famous Faraglioni rock formations, one of the island’s natural wonders. After a lovely day in Capri, return to Naples for dinner.

Optional: Full Day Capri Tour

Overnight: Naples

Meals: Breakfast and dinner

​

DAY 12, Monday - Visit Pompeii en route to Rome

Depart Naples and head towards Rome. On the way, visit Pompeii, the city that was frozen in time under a thick carpet of volcanic ash almost 2,000 years ago. The tragic fossils of people attempting to escape, along with their children and dogs, are still visible, along with the preserved ruins of the Temples of Apollo and Jupiter, and the Forum. Continue north, passing the magnificent Abbey of Monte Cassino, perched high on the mountaintop, scene of a huge battle near the end of World War II in which the abbey was completely destroyed, but has now been lovingly restored. Then, onto Rome, the astonishing city that combines modern city life with ancient wonders.

Overnight: Rome

Meals: Breakfast

​

DAY 13, Tuesday - Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel

Today, visit the Vatican Museums and Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel. Stroll through one of the most important art collections of the world. Admire the Gallery of Tapestries and the Geographical Maps before arriving to the Sistine Chapel, with its great frescoes by Michelangelo. Continue to St. Peter’s Square, passing Bernini’s famous colonnade to view St. Peter’s Basilica,* built on the burial site of Saint Peter, with the most famous Michelangelo’s Pieta. Spend the afternoon at leisure, or join the optional walking tour of the Eternal City’s grand piazzas that includes the Spanish Steps, the legendary Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the baroque Piazza Navona.

*Due to Religious events, the opening times of St. Peter Basilica are subject to change without notice. In these cases, you will visit the Vatican Library instead of the Basilica.

Optional: Piazzas of Rome (PM)

Overnight: Rome

Meals: Breakfast

​

DAY 14, Wednesday - Tour Ancient Rome

The historic tour of ancient Rome begins at the legendary Roman Forum, the central area of the city from which ancient Rome developed. Next, view the triumphal Arch of Constantine, erected by the Roman Senate to commemorate Constantine’s tenth year of leadership over the Eternal City. On to the mighty Colosseum, the largest amphitheater built in the Roman Empire that seated over 50,000, where gladiator contests and public events were attended by the rich, the poor and by the Emperor himself. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Tonight, join your Tour Manager and fellow travelers for a Farewell Cocktail at the hotel.

Overnight: Rome

Meals: Breakfast

​

DAY 15, Thursday - Depart Italy

Your tour ends this morning after breakfast.

Meals: Breakfast

​