Taste of Italy

Welcome to day one in Rome and the start of one of our most beloved Italy tours! Set out to explore the city after meeting up with your tour guide and new travel companions this morning. In this afternoon's free time, explore some of the top attractions, including ancient Roman architecture, medieval buildings, Renaissance artworks and more in the old capital of the Roman Empire. For an unmissable insight into this history, join the optional Colosseum & Roman Forum Guided Tour! This evening, enjoy an included welcome dinner to get to know your tour leader and tour group.

Today, depart the capital city and traverse the Umbria region. Discover why it's called the 'fruit bowl of Italy', thanks to its renowned produce, food and picturesque scenery. Get ready for what some consider the most spectacular view in Europe as the tour continues to Orvieto, perched at the pinnacle of an impressive volcanic rock. Explore at leisure after taking the funicular to the top. Witness the stunning views of the Cathedral of Orvieto's facade, marvel at the papal residence and behold the Albornoz fortress. Next, head to Venice. Explore at leisure this evening or opt for the twilight water taxi cruise of the Venetian canals.

Enjoying a full free day to spend as you wish. Don't miss out on the quintessential Italian experience on the optional gondola ride. Alternatively, choose to visit the colourful islands of Murano and Burano on an optional excursion to the Venice Lagoon (also known as the "Floating City"), and learn all about their iconic glass-blowing and lace-making practices. Choose to enjoy both optional excursions to make the most of today's free day!

Today, the journey continues to Florence with a photo stop en route at Lake Garda. Upon arrival in Florence, set out on a guided orientation tour to uncover the city's rich heritage, witness the Renaissance artworks and marvel at the ruins of Rome. See the top sights in Florence, including the Ponte Vecchio, the Basilica of Santa Croce and the replica of Michelangelo’s David at the Piazza della Signoria. Next, enjoy a leather-making presentation at Leonardo Leather before sitting down for an included dinner in Florence this evening. Up next is the ancient spa town of Montecatini Terme for tonight's accommodation.

The tour continues towards La Spezia today, the entryway to the Cinque Terre. These "Five Lands" are located on the robust seaside and comprise five scenic coastal towns linked by footpaths: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. Since cars and motorcycles are prohibited, enjoy the opportunity to explore the area by walking or on a train ride. This afternoon, head back to Tuscany with a stop on the way to marvel at the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. This must-see Italian attraction is over 800 years old, so be sure to snap a picture with it! This evening, join the optional Tuscan dinner accompanied by stellar views.

Traverse one of the world's most scenic landscapes today as the tour continues past Tuscan farms, lavish vineyards and gorgeous olive groves. Today's first stop is the tiny, walled hilltop town of San Gimignano. The 'Town of Fine Towers' is home to stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture as well as 14 tower houses that are impeccably preserved. Take a short drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Siena, where the biannual 'Palio' horse race is held at the main piazza. Savour a wine and antipasti pairing before returning to Rome. Tonight, end the day's adventure with a final group dinner.

After breakfast today, this exciting Italy tour concludes. With 8 days worth of incredible experiences and travel stories of Italy's delights, it's time to say goodbye to la bella vita! Before heading off, remember to swap contact details so you can stay in touch with your new travel family! If staying in Rome, why not join the Vatican Museums optional excursion? Look forward to a guided tour of this tiny country’s artistic masterpieces. Please note that this excursion must be booked prior to the start of your tour and will conclude in the late afternoon. Share your incredible memories with us on social media using #ExpatExplore and #TravelMadePossible. Buon viaggio !