Our family of 5 adults recently went to Italy on a 9 day trip to Venice, Rome and Sorrento(Amalfi Coast) with private tours, fast train travel, door to door drivers, and great accommodations; which was all set up by Michael.
Michael was very responsive to my communications, very helpful with trip suggestions to make the trip better, and just overall a great travel planner! I was nervous at first, because I have never completely booked a vacation online without ever meeting the travel planner, but it all worked out great!
We were completely happy with everything about our trip, and will definitely reach out to Michael again when we travel to Italy! There were a couple of small issues that arose over the duration of the trip, but they were handled quickly and without further problem to us. So all was good.
Our private tour guides in Rome, Ornella; and Roberta in Pompeii were incredible. Our Venice tour guide, Cynthia, was awesome too, she did a great job! We did a full day 8 hr tour in Rome of the Colosseum and Vatican, and I would recommend splitting that to two half days if you have the time. It was awesome, but a bit much for one day!! Also, we had a full day Amalfi Coast tour by van, with great driver Antonio, which was supposed to go to Positano, Amalfi, & Ravello, but because the traffic is so bad on the roads, there wasn't time to make it to Ravello. So, I recommend either going by boat, which we hear is faster, or allow more time if you want to see all three villages.
Again, a great trip for the memory books! Thank you MIchael and all of the local operators who worked to make our trip such a success!!
Explore Sicily and unearth the natural and historical wonders of this scenic island, placed perfectly in the heart of the Mediterranean. Then, cross over to the heel of Italy's boot to find dreamy beaches, inspiring architecture and ancient wonders. This Premium adventure will take you on a deep dive through southern Italy with one of the most experienced locally based leaders to help uncover all the best sights and bites.
Sightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Villa
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Palermo, Polignano A Mare, Nardò
Palermo, Polignano A Mare, Nardò, Matera, Naples, Marsala, Agrigento, Siracusa, Catania
Journey by foot through the little-known region of Tuscany between Pontremoli and the walled town of Lucca along the Via Francigena, the Italian Camino. The Via Francigena has experienced a recent revival and is now one of the most exciting pilgrimage trails in Europe. This section of the trail takes you through a little-known region of Tuscany. Starting in Pontremoli, in the heart of the Lunigiana region where the green hills are dotted with fine castles, you will descend to the sea in Versilia. Enjoy the coastal scenery as you walk along the sandy beaches and during the warmer months you can happily stop for a swim en route. Leaving the coast behind, you will head back toward the Tuscan hills. You can visit the fascinating artists' workshops in Pietrasanta, known as the Italian Athens, which rests at the foot of the Apuan Alps. The highlights continue as you reach the walled town of Lucca, one of the most captivating old town centres of Tuscany.
An amazing trip, seeing so many different sides of Italy, the main tourist centres, but the rural villages. Fantastically organised and supported when things went wrong (personal injury). Highly recommend this trip for adventurers.
Bicycle toursExplorer
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Rome, Turin, Piedmont & Valle d’
Rome, Turin, Piedmont & Valle d’Aosta, Aosta Valley, Aosta, Berceto, Aulla, Massa, Lucca, San Miniato Alto, San Gimignano, Siena, San Quirico d'Orcia, Radicofani, Bolsena, Saint Bernardo Pass, Viterbo, Sutri, Formello, Verres, Viverone, Vercelli, Vigevano, Pavia, Piacenza, Parma
The tour is designed for those seeking a delightful mix of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and breathtaking landscapes. Embark on a captivating journey through the enchanting landscapes of southern Italy with this unforgettable tour that takes you from the bustling city of Bari to the spiritual haven of San Giovanni Rotondo, the coastal charm of Vieste, and the natural wonders of the Gargano Peninsula. Each day unfolds a new chapter in the rich tapestry of southern Italy's cultural and natural treasures
Immense yourself on this captivating self-driven odyssey from Rome to Amalfi, traversing scenic routes, this journey unfolds amidst picturesque landscapes and historic marvels. Departing Rome's vibrant cityscape, the drive leads through charming villages and past ancient ruins, offering glimpses into Italy's rich heritage. As the road winds along the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, the azure expanse of the Tyrrhenian Sea provides a breathtaking backdrop. Experience the charm and beauty of Amalfi, a coastal gem with colorful architecture, a storied cathedral and a relaxed atmosphere. Admire the stunning cliffs, azure waters and picturesque villages. Explore Iconic landmarks like Positano and Ravello which epitomize Mediterranean charm. This self-drive experience encapsulates the essence of Italy, blending cultural richness with natural beauty.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
The tour was expensive and we were in a mediocre hotel with flaky internet.
But the tour leader was exceptional in all areas. Her presentations were faultless, her interest beyond compare and nothing was ever too much trouble for her. An excellent part of the holiday
Would l travel with Explore again? Probably not they're too expensive. Without Lara's input l'd be asking for a refund.
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort, Villa
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Catania, Giardini Naxos, Mount E
Catania, Giardini Naxos, Mount Etna, Lipari, Taormina, Syracusa
Start your journey in Naples, a city teeming with vibrant street life and rich cultural heritage. Next, ferry to the enchanting island of Capri, famed for its azure waters and glamorous allure. Indulge in the charm of Sorrento, perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Bay of Naples. Immerse yourself in the archaeological wonders of Pompeii, frozen in time by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. To add a unique culinary touch to your adventure, visit a Gragnano pasta factory, where you can witness the traditional craftsmanship behind this renowned pasta
Step onto the fast track to Italian culture and heritage with this thrilling 7-day journey. Glide effortlessly between the country's most famous cities aboard high-speed trains. Your immersive adventure will peel back the layers of history, art, and culture that make Italy extraordinary. From Rome's Vatican treasures to Florence's artistic wonders and Venice's timeless allure, each day unveils fresh discoveries, promising a whirlwind of experiences
Your journey takes you along a mix of inland and coastal routes, starting amidst the Baroque splendour of Ragusa and Modica and ending in stunning Siracusa on the east coast. You'll cycle through lush valleys filled with olive trees, almond groves, vineyards and citrus orchards and patchwork puzzles of dry-stone-wall farms, as you cycle between UNESCO World Heritage Sites rebuilt in the typical late Baroque style after the famous 1693 earthquake.
You'll take in plenty of Inspector Montalbano country - a treat for fans of the fictional detective series - including Scicli with its atmospheric streets and hilltop mausoleum as well as the charming fishing villages of Punta Secca and Sampieri. Following the scenic Mediterranean Route cycleway you'll head towards the sea, taking in sublime coastline, punctuated by golden sandy beaches and picturesque fishing villages such as Portopalo di Capo Passero and pretty Marzamemi with its Arab history. After passing through Nero D'Avola wine country your holiday finishes in beautiful Siracusa, an ancient Greek city whose 'historical heart' is the island of Ortigia, accessed by a bridge from the mainland. Ortigia's grand squares, narrow medieval streets and romantic palaces and castles are a delight to behold.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa, Resort
Age Range
13-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Syracuse, Sicily, Modica, Marina
Syracuse, Sicily, Modica, Marina Di Modica, Portopalo Di Capo Passero, Noto
We were bike fitted with very comfortable bikes which we enjoyed riding. The GPS was excellent although we did misplace ourselves now and then. The rides went through very beautiful Tuscan country and lovely villages. My favourite was Lucca. Thanks for providing great equipment we enjoyed this week of our holiday in Italy.