12-Night The Sumptuous Side of Italy

Day 2

Accommodation

Central View Hotel - Perugia, Umbria Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon.

Daily Itinerary

Perugia - The Medieval Capital

Enjoy breakfast, and then we’ll head to the medieval hill town of Assisi, birthplace of St. Francis. Our guide will give us an introduction, with amazing facts, before we head off to Perugia. A 13th century fountain and a 15th century Duomo are central to this medieval town, capital of the Umbria region. Breakfast and Dinner are included.

Perugia Trivia:
Q: What sweet indulgence is Perugia famous for?
When you tell an Italian that you’re going to Perugia, the first thing they'll think about is chocolate. This gem of a medieval town is beautiful in its own right, but Perugia is home to a chocolate factory and a chocolate festival. Four men began the Perugrina brand in 1907, selling candied almonds. (The word ‘confetti’ is Italian for almonds with a hard sugar coating, and they were first used by Italians to toss in the air for weddings and festivals.) In 1917 the wife of one of the men added cocoa and she created the well-loved Baci!

Overnight Location

Perugia, Umbria Region

On the map: Perugia is the capital city of Italy’s Umbria Region. The city is located about 102 miles (164 km) north of Rome.

Perugia is known for its defensive walls around the historic center and Etruscan, medieval, and Gothic 18th century treasures. The medieval Priori Palace exhibits regional art from the 13th century onward. Looking onto Piazza IV Novembre, the Gothic cathedral houses Renaissance paintings and frescoes. In the square's center, Fontana Maggiore is a marble fountain with carvings of biblical scenes and zodiac signs. The prestigious University of Perugia, dating back to the early 14th century, is home to thousands of Italian and International students. Because of this, Perugia has the vibrant characteristics of a typical university hub, and it is full of lively bars, cafes, and boutiques.

Day 3

Accommodation

Rural Tuscan Villa - Reggello, Tuscany Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon.

Daily Itinerary

Gothic Siena

Siena has one of Europe’s great medieval squares. This ancient town is perched on a hill, offering hidden lanes and stunning views. Our tour guide will lead us through this UNESCO World Heritage village, and then we will head to tonight’s glorious lodging in the rolling Tuscan hills. This is a dream made real. For dinner, we’ll gather and indulge in exquisite local cuisine. Breakfast and dinner are included.

Siena Trivia:
Q: Does Siena have a connection with banking?
A: This UNESCO World Heritage Site was a major banking center until the 13th and 14th centuries. It is still home to the oldest bank in the world, Monte dei Paschi Bank, in continuous operation since 1472. Also, the University of Sienna, founded in 1240, is one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world.

Overnight Location

Reggello, Tuscany Region

On the Map: Reggello is a comune in the Italian region of Tuscany, located 22 miles southeast of Florence, between the north-western side of Pratomagno and the Upper Valdarno.

Situated in the Florentine mountains, Regello is famous for extra virgin olive oil production. It is also home to the beautiful Vallombrosa Abbey and the sumptuous Sammezzano Castle. The castle is considered the most important example of Eastern architecture in Italy; all of the bricks, stucco, and tiles were laid out by specially trained workers at the building’s location. The area is dotted with small churches, villas, and farms. The Romanesque church of St. Donato in Fronzana, including the Canonica and Compagnia, were renovated in the 18th century, and they are well worth a visit. The church of St. Clemente a Sociana, with its 15th-century sculptural style, is also a treasure. Surrender to the splendor.

Day 4

Accommodation

Rural Tuscan Villa - Reggello, Tuscany Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon.

Daily Itinerary

Culinary Secrets of Tuscany

Our hosts will teach us how to prepare a classic Tuscan lunch. Dive in and get busy cooking! This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. After lunch, we’re free to enjoy the glories of the Tuscan countryside, the light, the villa, the vineyards rolling up hills… if you want, dip into the swimming pool, and renew. Breakfast and Lunch are included.

Tuscany Trivia:
Q: How much wine does Tuscany produce every year?
A: There are more than 157,000 acres of vineyards throughout Tuscany. The region produces 7.3 billion ounces of wine annually.

Overnight Location

Reggello, Tuscany Region

On the Map: Reggello is a comune in the Italian region of Tuscany, located 22 miles southeast of Florence, between the north-western side of Pratomagno and the Upper Valdarno.

Situated in the Florentine mountains, Regello is famous for extra virgin olive oil production. It is also home to the beautiful Vallombrosa Abbey and the sumptuous Sammezzano Castle. The castle is considered the most important example of Eastern architecture in Italy; all of the bricks, stucco, and tiles were laid out by specially trained workers at the building’s location. The area is dotted with small churches, villas, and farms. The Romanesque church of St. Donato in Fronzana, including the Canonica and Compagnia, were renovated in the 18th century, and they are well worth a visit. The church of St. Clemente a Sociana, with its 15th-century sculptural style, is also a treasure. Surrender to the splendor.

Day 5

Accommodation

Historic Boutique Hotel - Lucca, Tuscany Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon.

Daily Itinerary

Florence: the birthplace of the Renaissance

Florence is the beautiful heart of Italy, the cradle of the Renaissance. It was the center of the cultural, artistic, and scientific revolution of the 15th century. Our local guide brings Florence alive as we walk past the Duomo, the Ponte Vecchio, and bustling marketplaces. When the afternoon winds down, we drive to Lucca, founded in 180 BC. Breakfast is included.

Lucca Trivia:
Q: Is Lucca worth visiting?
A. Absolutely! Lucca was founded by the Etruscans and became a Roman colony in 180 BC. Visit the Roman-era walls, some incorporated into a cathedral. Lucca’s medieval era is also well-preserved. Walk along the tall, thick walls—you’ll often see performers and artists’ stalls there. Visit the 150 ft. tower built in the 1300’s, and explore Puccini’s home. It is one of the Italian “Citta d’arte” (Arts town) and deservedly so. Lucca is a picture-perfect town.

Overnight Location

Lucca, Tuscany Region

On the Map: Lucca is a historical city on the Serchio river, just north of Florence in Italy’s Tuscany region. 

Lovely Lucca is a perfect day trip from Florence, but prepare to fall in love and stay there.  30-foot-high Renaissance walls circle thisRenaissance city and its cobblestone streets. Broad, tree-lined pathways along the top of these massive 16th- and 17th-century ramparts are popular for strolling and cycling. In the evening, jesters and dancers entertain from the walls. Casa di Puccini, where the great composer was born, is now a house museum. Get opera tickets and listen to selections of Puccini’s music. Far less busy than Florence, you'll find a slower pace here but no lack of highly fashionable boutiques, stunning marble churches, and outdoor cafes.

Day 6

Accommodation

Historic Boutique Hotel - Lucca, Tuscany Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon.

Daily Itinerary

Pisa's Field of Miracles

Today we’ll take a scenic drive for an Italian must-see—Campo Dei Miracoli, ‘Field of Miracles’, home of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This complex is also home to St. John’s Baptistry. Notice how sounds change here… There is plenty of time to take photos and discover the elegant and the unusual. Afterward, we’ll head back to Lucca. Take the afternoon to wander cobblestone streets, market stalls, or Puccini’s home at your own pace. Breakfast is included.

Pisa Trivia:
Q: Why does the Tower of Pisa lean?
A: All the buildings at the Campo deo Miracoli lean, due to sandy soil and shallow foundations, but none so famously as the Leaning Tower. Building began in 1173. The tower started to lean even before the third story was finished, and yet building continued for almost another 200 years. In 2008, after ten years of work and engineering, the tower was stabilized. Visitors can now climb to the top for spectacular views.

Overnight Location

Lucca, Tuscany Region

On the Map: Lucca is a historical city on the Serchio river, just north of Florence in Italy’s Tuscany region. 

Lovely Lucca is a perfect day trip from Florence, but prepare to fall in love and stay there.  30-foot-high Renaissance walls circle thisRenaissance city and its cobblestone streets. Broad, tree-lined pathways along the top of these massive 16th- and 17th-century ramparts are popular for strolling and cycling. In the evening, jesters and dancers entertain from the walls. Casa di Puccini, where the great composer was born, is now a house museum. Get opera tickets and listen to selections of Puccini’s music. Far less busy than Florence, you'll find a slower pace here but no lack of highly fashionable boutiques, stunning marble churches, and outdoor cafes.

Day 7

Accommodation

Chic Boutique Hotel - Santa Margherita, Liguria Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

Glamour in the Italian Riviera

The Italian Riviera beckons us! Our first stop is Camogli. Settled on a woody slope, Camogli is a sweet fishing village where people have decorated their homes with seashells. Portofino and its glittering harbor are the essence of glamor, yet in the hills above there are the remains of a long-gone castle and dragon slayer. We settle in at the colorful seaside village, Santa Margherita Ligure for the night. Breakfast is included.

Portofino Trivia:
Q: Is Portofino a fishing village?
A: Yes and no. Up until the beginning of the 20th century, Portofino was a hidden gem of a fishing village. After World War I, tourism exploded, and it became the playground for Europe’s wealthiest people. The harbor is gorgeous, the water is clear, and the pastel colored homes are charming. When the jet-set era dawned, in the late 1950’s, Portofino became the summer getaway for the richest people in the world. Today, there are still hundreds of small fishing boats tucked beside yachts. Quite an image!

Overnight Location

Santa Margherita, Liguria Region

On the map: Santa Margherita Ligure is a commune in the Metropolitan City of Genoa in the Liguria region of Italy, located about 35 kilometers southeast of Genoa, in the area traditionally known as Tigullio.

The resort and fishing town of Santa Margherita is fashionable but much quieter than Portofino. Life here moves a bit slower, where boating and simple sunning are the orders of the day. The seafront is the main attraction with its beach, lively harbour and promenade, and is very picturesque with palm trees, grand buildings and brightly coloured houses immediately behind the seafront. You'll find great shopping options, lovely cafes and sights like its 16th-century castle and the 17th-century Basilica di Santa Margherita. 

Day 8

Accommodation

Light and Airy Hotel - Santa Vittoria d'Alba, Piedmont Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

The Land of Wine - Barolo

Heading inland to the north, we discover Barolo in the Piedmont Region. Barolo is a tiny village surrounded by rolling hills that produces some of Italy’s finest wine, and it has been so for 400 years. Onward to Asti, famed for its sparkling wine, we have an exceptional experience in store—visiting a distillery for local liquors. Beautiful! Onward to the lush Langhe region where we’ll gather for dinner together. Breakfast and dinner are included.

Langhe Trivia:
Q. What is Langhe known for?
A. Langhe, a hilly area in Piedmont, is famous for its wines, cheeses, and the white truffles of Alba. Langhe is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural landscapes and its winemaking traditions that keep improving, year by year. This harmonious area is considered a testament to sustainable livable practices. There are currently 19 wines produced regularly here, as well as blends and house wines.

Overnight Location

Santa Vittoria d'Alba, Piedmont Region

On the Map: Santa Vittoria d'Alba is a comune in the Province of Cuneo in the Italian region Piedmont, located about 28 miles southeast of Turin and about 28 miles northeast of Cuneo. 

Imagine a 15th century medieval village with lush rolling hills. Close your eyes and breathe the rich earth, giving birth to wineries for 400 years. The nearby landscapes were declared a UNESCO World Heritage site, due to their being an “exceptional living testimony” to the social and cultural fabric of land, based on wine. Even if you don’t love vino, you will be enchanted by the cobbled streets, local cafes, the mystical cathedral, and meeting the hearty locals.

Day 9

Accommodation

Prestigious Historic Hotel - Verbania, Piedmont Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon.

Daily Itinerary

Truffle Hunting

This morning we will join a local farmer and his dog in the hills of Alba to hunt for truffles. Amazing! Next, we go to Lake Orta, a sparkling gem in Northern Italy, previously named for Saint Julius. Feel the glory of Monte Mottarone, rising above. A few more miles, and there we spot Lake Maggiore, a fantasy of peace and splendor. Breakfast is included.

Lake Orta Trivia:
Q. Is Lake Orta as nice as Lake Maggiore?
A. Both lakes are rare beauties, but if you like a slow-paced, peaceful ambience, Lake Orta is where you’ll find it. The water is beautiful and there is a sleepy medieval town here. It was first called Lago de San Giulio after their patron saint, Saint Julius. The town is still known as a place to set out on a religious pilgrimage—it is on the slope of Sacre Monte, one of the nine sacred mountains in Northern Italy.

Overnight Location

Verbania, Piedmont Region

On the Map: Verbania is a municipality in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy. It is on the shore of Lake Maggiore, about 57 miles (91 km) from Milan and about 25 miles (40 km) from Locarno, Switzerland.

This is a lovely lakeside town also known as, “the garden on the lake.” The views of the surrounding Alps across the water are stunning. There are opulent villas, museums, water sports, horseback riding, and hiking in the nearby mountains. One of Lake Maggiore’s best attractions is here—the Giardini Botanici Villa Taranto. These botanical gardens contain 20,000 plant varieties, with more than 3,000 species. Among its plants are azaleas, cornus, greenhouses of Victoria amazonica, and 300 types of dahlias. It also contains a small herbarium and the founder's mausoleum. Ferries from Verbania take you to the charming Borromean Islands. In town, see the Renaissance church of the Madonna di Campagna, the Romanesque Oratorio of San Remigio with 11th century frescoes and a pretty portico, and the museum in Palazzo Dugnani that has Roman era tablets and Lombard frescoes. Verbania is a great base for Lake Maggiore.

Day 10

Accommodation

Prestigious Historic Hotel - Verbania, Piedmont Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12.00pm noon.

Daily Itinerary

Enchanting Borromean Islands & Lake Maggiore

Lago Maggiore is a shimmering expanse of lake, nestled at the base of mountains, and stretching into forested Switzerland. Today we set sail for the Borromean Islands. Relax and breathe the clear air and wonder at the marvels. Wander the baroque terraces of Isola Bella and explore Isola Madre. These islands are small treasures of grottoes and gardens. Isola dei Pescatori, a charming fishing village, has a population of only 50. After lunch, enjoy your free time. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Lake Maggiore Trivia:
Q. How large is Lake Maggiore?
A. Lake Maggiore, translated as ‘Greater Lake’, is the second largest lake in Italy, and the largest lake in southern Switzerland. It is 40 miles long and varies between 3 miles and 6 miles wide. Its deepest point is 1,200 feet. There are 40 towns along the lake, not counting those on the islands.

Overnight Location

Verbania, Piedmont Region

On the Map: Verbania is a municipality in the Piedmont region of northwest Italy. It is on the shore of Lake Maggiore, about 57 miles (91 km) from Milan and about 25 miles (40 km) from Locarno, Switzerland.

This is a lovely lakeside town also known as, “the garden on the lake.” The views of the surrounding Alps across the water are stunning. There are opulent villas, museums, water sports, horseback riding, and hiking in the nearby mountains. One of Lake Maggiore’s best attractions is here—the Giardini Botanici Villa Taranto. These botanical gardens contain 20,000 plant varieties, with more than 3,000 species. Among its plants are azaleas, cornus, greenhouses of Victoria amazonica, and 300 types of dahlias. It also contains a small herbarium and the founder's mausoleum. Ferries from Verbania take you to the charming Borromean Islands. In town, see the Renaissance church of the Madonna di Campagna, the Romanesque Oratorio of San Remigio with 11th century frescoes and a pretty portico, and the museum in Palazzo Dugnani that has Roman era tablets and Lombard frescoes. Verbania is a great base for Lake Maggiore.

Day 11

Accommodation

Timeless Grand Hotel - Sondrio, Lombardy Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am

Daily Itinerary

Lake Como

Today we head to star-studded Lake Como. The shoreline is an extravaganza of opulent villas and lakeside villages. Bring your sunglasses! This is the home of the rich and the famous. Continuing along our way, we’ll stop to taste local wine. We’ll spend this night at Sondrio, in the Lombardy Region. Sondrio is famous for its wine, cotton, and silk; it’s a joy to walk around the old town. Breakfast is included.

Lake Como Trivia:
Q. How many movie stars have homes on Lake Como?
A. The rich and famous have lived on Lake Como since Roman times. It’s stunning scenery and gorgeous coast, just 30 miles north of Milan, is the draw! There are Baroque villas, grand hotels, and hillside villages with exceptional views. Rhododendrons, azaleas, and camellias go wild here. The stars we know who own villas here, or have, include George Clooney, Sylvester Stallone, Richard Branson, Madonna, Versace, and Ronaldinho. And that’s just for starters.

Overnight Location

Sondrio, Lombardy Region

On the Map: Sondrio is an Italian city and comune and Provincial Capital located in the heart of the Valtellina in the Lombardy region.

Wine represents one of the main resources of this region, together with tourism, especially in winter. The heart of Sondrio is its central Garibaldi Square. Not far from it is the Palazzo Sassi, that is home of the Art and History Museum of Valtellina. In a dominant position, near the ancient road to the Valmalenco, linking the town to Switzerland, stands the Masegra Castle, housing the Historical Museum of the Grisons Domination. Other sights include the Torre Ligariana, once the collegiate's bell tower, and the Palazzo Pretorio, once the seat of the Grisons government. 

Day 12

Accommodation

Elegant Villa Hotel - Trento, Trentino-Alto Adige Region

Check in policies:

Check-in time is after 3.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.

Daily Itinerary

UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites & Lake Molveno

Lake Molvena is one of the most extraordinary lakes in Italy. It is a large alpine lake, crystal blue, at the foot of the Brenta Dolomite mountains and high above Lake Garda. Our tour leader will guide us on a peaceful stroll through Trento, where we’ll spend the night. Trento is a quiet city with Renaissance fountains, shady porticoes, and medieval frescoes, set in a wide glacial valley. We’ll gather tonight for our farewell dinner. Breakfast and dinner are included.

Trento Trivia:
Q: Which foods are best to eat in Trento?
A: Trento is an unusual part of Italy. Near Austria, you’ll hear German spoken as often as Italian and find a wide choice of local beer on the menu. Some specialties include carne salada. Similar to corned beef, it was created to preserve meat. In Trento, it is particularly smoky and delicious. Schüttelbrot is a special find. It’s a round crunchy flatbread, made with rye flour, with hints of cumin and fennel. It will probably be in your restaurant’s bread basket. Delicious! Another favorite is Meraner Wurst, very much like a hot dog, smoky, made with beef and pork, and grilled. You’ll find Speck PGI everywhere. Unlike other Italian salami, it has a sweet and spicy flavor of rosemary, juniper, bay leaf, salt, and pepper with a distinctively smoky taste.

Overnight Location

Trento, Trentino-Alto Adige Region

On the Map: Trento is a city on the Adige River in Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol in Italy. It is the capital of the autonomous province of Trento. It is just south of the Dolomite Mountains, where the Fersina River and Avisio rivers join the Adige River. Nearby lakes include Lake Caldonazzo, Lake Levico, Lake Garda, and Lake Toblino. It is 145 miles (234 km) from Milan and 132 miles (214 km) from Venice, Italy.

Trento has a high standard of living, gorgeous landscapes, and is a favored base for winter sports enthusiasts. It is known for the Buonconsiglio Castle, home to late-medieval fresco cycles. Trento Cathedral, featuring a rose window and a baroque chapel, sits on Piazza Duomo. Also on the square is Casa Cazuffi-Rella, a Renaissance building with a frescoed facade. Southwest, MUSE is a science and natural history museum with high-tech exhibits. The spectacular Dolomites have inspired poets, artists, those seeking fresh air, and hikers for centuries. If you are a fan of all that is Alpine, this town is for you.  Many residents speak German, and others speak an ancient language called “Ladin.”  The inns and restaurants are run with precision, much as they are in Switzerland. Food is a multicultural feast, served with fine, local wines. 

Day 13

Daily Itinerary

Fair Verona & Floating Venice

Leaving the mountains, we drive to Romeo and Juliet’s home, Verona. Our guide will take us to the town’s highlights before we head to the mysterious jewel of Venice. Gondolas, small islands, medieval lanes, and blown glass fill your senses. Depart from Venice airport. Breakfast is included. As you will be arriving late in the day to Venice, you may want to add a post night in Venice, depending on your flight's departure time. Please let your Destination Expert know so he or she can make your ideal arrangements.

Venice Trivia:
Q: Are there any secret spots left in Venice?
A: Yes! Head to the Libreria Acqua Alta. This used bookstore on the waterfront is run by Venetian, Luigi Frizzo and his cat. You’ll find books stacked in canoes, old gondolas, barrels, and even bathtubs. In the garden, there is a staircase made of books. This place is a dream. When you’re finished here, head to Cantina Do Mori for more local color. No tables, delicious light food and wine are served at a wooden bar. It’s been a favorite since the 1400’s, and it’s said to have been a haunt of Casanova.

Depart From

Depart from Venice Airport, Veneto Region