Imagine the Italy you’ve always dreamed about. Walking the cobbled streets of ancient Rome. Rambling through Tuscany for deeply delicious food and wines. Perhaps the Mediterranean Sea fills you with images of pastel-colored villages perched on rugged hills. Discover medieval towns with spires that reach for the sky, and a sun that covers all with soft light. You will cruise on an azure-blue lake, discover the wonder of Italian mountains, and watch rivers roll by, leading you to Verona. Mysterious Venice is the perfect finale. If you wish to extend your tour in Rome or Venice, let us know!
Your local guide is with you every step of the way, introducing you to the sumptuous joys of Italy. We travel in premium mini coaches that have comfortable seats, air conditioning, and large windows that frame stunning views. With far more flexibility than a standard-size coach, we take the scenic routes and back roads through countryside, tiny villages, and towns along the coast.
Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am.
Daily Itinerary
Arrive in Rome
Rome is the perfect starting point for your exceptional adventure! This evening we’ll gather with our small group and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Dinner is included. Should you wish to spend time in Rome before your tour, please let your Destination Expert know, so they can make the perfect arrangements for you.
Rome Trivia: Q: When was Rome Founded? A: Ancient Rome was founded in 753 BC beside the River Tiber. The settlement grew into the city of Rome, and it eventually dominated the Italian Peninsula. The Greek and Etruscan cultures became part of Rome. It expanded its boundaries until it was one of the largest Empires in the ancient world, with between 50 to 90 million inhabitants. At its height, in 117 AD, the Roman Empire covered 1.9 million square miles.
Arrive at
Arrive at Rome Airport, Lazio Region
Today you will arrive at the Rome Leonardo da Vinci International Airport.
Overnight Location
Rome, Lazio Region
On the map: Rome, the capital of Italy and in the Lazio region, is in the center of the country on the western side, closest to the Tyrrhenian Sea. The city is fed by many major highways and is roughly 173 miles (279 km) south of Florence and 140 miles (226 km) northwest of Naples.
As both the capital of Italy and the capital of Italy’s Lazio region, Rome (Italian: Roma) is a popular destination among world travelers. The city’s history spans 28 centuries. Roman mythology dates the founding at around 753 BC, making Rome one of the oldest continuously occupied sites in Europe. While Roman architecture and rich Italian food make this city famous, it is also regarded as the birthplace of Western civilization. It’s easy to understand why it is ranked the 3rd most-visited city in the EU.
Known as the “Eternal City,” Rome is a masterpiece of art, food, history, and Italian culture. Stroll the ancient streets and enjoy a classic Italian meal, complete with world-famous gelato. Explore the almost-endless list of museums and monuments, including the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Vatican Museums, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum. All are sure to give you a feeling of expertise about Italian and Roman history.
Day 2
Accommodation
Central View Hotel - Perugia, Umbria Region
Room Type: Double / Twin
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 is 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
Room Type: Double / Twin
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
Room Type: Double / Twin
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
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00 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
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2:00 pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 12:00 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
Historic Seaside Hotel - Genoa, Liguria Region
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 3:00pm 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
Genoa, Liguria Region
On the map: Genoa is a port city and the capital of northwest Italy's Liguria region in the center of the Italian Riviera. Located about 75 miles (120 km) south of Milan on the Gulf of Genoa, the city occupies a narrow coastal plain and the western slopes of the Apennine Range.
Wandering the narrow caruggi alleyways of Genoa is a bit like solving a medieval labyrinth. In the heart of the Italian port city lies Piazza de Ferrari, a main square with a beautiful fountain and a perimeter lined with historic buildings, including the Palace of the Doges the Teatro Carlo Felice, which was destroyed during WWII and subsequently rebuilt. The seaside neighborhood of Boccadasse is a vision of pink and yellow buildings that brighten up this lovely fishing village.
Day 8
Accommodation
Light and Airy Hotel - Santa Vittoria d'Alba, Piedmont Region
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2.00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before 11.00am
Daily Itinerary
Truffle Hunting
Rise and shine – this morning we’ll venture to the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Piedmont region. We’ll head out into the rolling hills of Alba to join a truffle hunt with a local farmer and his dog. Afterwards, we’ll continue our journey south to the enchanting Langhe region where we’ll enjoy some free time before a sumptuous group dinner. 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
Room Type: Double / Twin
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
The Land of Wine - Barolo
Away from the coast and onwards to Barolo, in Piedmont: a region of rich red wines and luxurious cuisine. There’s a treat in store for the bon vivants among us – we’ll be visiting a local distillery near Asti to taste some local liquors. Later, we’ll hit the road to the captivating Lake Orta: a tranquil retreat sitting pretty at the bottom of the imposing Monte Mottarone. Then: from one blissful Italian lake to another! Lake Maggiore will be the final stop on today’s scenic journey. 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
Room Type: Double / Twin
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
Room Type: Double / Twin
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
Magical Atmospheric Trento Hotel - Trento, Trentino-Alto Adige Region
Room Type: Double / Twin
Check in policies:
Check-in time is after 2:00pm on your day of arrival. Check-out time is before noon
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 need to add a additional night, 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
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"We enjoy every second of our time in Italy"
Mar 4, 2025
Kelly R.
Wyoming
My mom's dream since she was a little girl was to go to Italy to see the Vatican and Pompeii. She's 82 and it was time to make it happen. The team at Authentic Vacations knocked the trip out of the park. The guides on our various tours were incredible. Every driver we booked was friendly and safe with immaculate vehicles. The hotels were in great locations, clean, roomy, and had great breakfast offerings. My mom enjoyed every second of our time in Rome and Florence as well as our two day trips to Pompeii and Siena. So glad to get to experience this with her thanks to Michaela and Authentic Vacations!
"Wonderful trip to Scotland"
Mar 3, 2025
Rebecca W.
Mequon, WI
Everything was quite wonderful! LOVED the Food tour. LOVED the handbag workshop. LOVED the Royal Mile tour (even though it was too windy for the castle entry -- next time!). The Rabbies tour to Kelpsies, Loch Lomond, and Stirling Castle was great (the castle tour guide inside was incredible!). The Scotland Showcase was good for tourists who know nothing about Scottish music and dance -- was a little underwhelming for us because we just spent 5 days at the RSCDS Winter School with the most amazing musicians and dancers! It is kind of our thing. All in all, it was great! THANKS!
"Trip of a lifetime in Australia"
Feb 25, 2025
Deborah R.
Ohio
I loved our trip—it really did exceed expectations. As far as the Australia part, I enjoyed it more than I thought I would. Authentic Vacations did a great job with the itinerary given the time constraints I had. All the transfers went smoothly and it was lovely not to have to find our own way to/from accommodations. My hope was to see a little part of Australia and especially the wildlife and I did—the trip certainly lived up to and exceeded expectations. I’m very happy with the itinerary and how everything went.
"Fabulous family vacation for clients"
Feb 21, 2025
Gwen C.
Anchorage
Authentic Vacations is wonderful to work with. As a travel professional who's clients were looking for a relaxed informative trip, Ellie at Authentic Vacations nailed it. So easy to work with and come up with fabulous trip for my travelers. Ellie is very knowledgeable about Ireland and the properties, driver and sights recommended along with way were fantastic!
Would definitely recommend Authentic Vacations and Ellie to anyone.
"Northern Lights in Norway"
Jan 29, 2025
Teresa T.
Texas
We had a wonderful time in Norway! The weather was very cooperative for all of our outdoor activities. We had the best night for viewing the Northern Lights of the whole week. We had a spectacular "show" at our first stop that our guide said he hadn't seen all season. It is absolutely enthralling! The dogsledding was a lot of fun and learning about the dog training through what happens when the dogs are retired was very interesting. The Northern Lights Dinner Cruise was not as expected but actually better. The reindeer sledding and Saami people experience was also well done. As far as feedback, we really appreciated how you kept us updated with any changes that occurred and were prepared to present us with alternatives. Thank you again for all your help. We had an amazing time and are so glad we went!
"Fabulous Anniversary in the UK"
Jan 21, 2025
Jones B.
Dublin, GA
Authentic Vacations tailored our trip exactly the way we wanted it. Fabulous accommodations and experiences in Glascow, Inverness, and London. Great drivers to and from our locations. This is the second trip AV has done for me, and it will not be the last. Thank you!
"Incredible Honeymoon in Ireland"
Dec 13, 2024
Kelsey F.
South Carolina
Where to begin? Our honeymoon was absolutely incredible, and we owe it all to Joleen! She was an absolute joy to work with throughout an entire year of planning. From our first phone call to organizing and answering our endless questions, to making adjustments and ensuring every detail was perfect, Joleen went above and beyond to make the process stress-free and enjoyable.
We spent 10 magical days in beautiful Ireland, and everything went off without a hitch. The hotels Joleen selected for us were lovely, our travel arrangements were seamless, and she managed to stick to our budget—something we didn’t think would even be possible for a trip this special.
Thanks to Joleen, our dream honeymoon became a reality, and we couldn’t be more grateful. We highly recommend Authentic Vacations, as the entire experience was fantastic. I have already recommended it to several friends! Their online portal is so user-friendly, and we loved the flexibility of being able to make payments on our trip whenever it suited us.
Thank you for everything, Joleen—we already miss emailing with you! You truly deserve a raise for the incredible service you provide!
"Ireland & Scotland Tour Sampler"
Nov 4, 2024
Melisa S.
10
Jennifer, Gary and want to thank you so much for all you did in planning our trip to Ireland and Scotland. We had the time of our lives and will be forever grateful. Everything was beyond our expectations and we have decided we will definitely ask for your services the next time we decide to travel somewhere special!
Complete our inquiry form by selecting your departure date, and all other relevant fields. Be sure to let us know if you're traveling for a special occasion! We can adjust most of our vacation packages to suit your needs, based on the details you provide.
2. Online Account & Quote Created
Your request will be forwarded to our team of Destination Experts, and a price quote will be prepared, based on your submitted preferences and criteria. A free Authentic Vacations online account will also be created, allowing you to view and request changes to your quote at any time. Log into your account via “LOGIN” at the top of any of our webpages.
3. Fine-Tune Your Tour Quote
Work with your assigned Destination Expert to tweak your quote in any way you wish. Our customers continually tell us that our flexibility in this regard is exceptional – your Destination Expert’s sole brief is to create the perfect tour for you!
4. Reserve & Pay Online
Once your quote is 100% to your liking, you can pay for your package with your credit card via your Authentic Vacations online account. We also accept payment by personal check and wire transfer. We only require a 20% deposit to secure your vacation, and our Risk-Free Cancellation Policy provides you with complete peace of mind.
5. Print Your Travel Documents & Go!
Once your vacation has been paid in full, you will be able to print your travel documents directly from your online account. You’re ready to embark on your ideal, authentic vacation!!
Questions?
If you would prefer to discuss your perfect vacation on the phone, we would be delighted to hear from you! Our Destination Experts are standing-by and looking forward to speaking with you at any time during our business hours listed below. We also operate a very responsive and efficient Live Chat service on our website…instant gratification awaits!
Toll-free from the US and Canada: 1-888-443-5259 Rest of World: +1-707-687-0191
Hours of Business:
Monday – Thursday: 7:00am – 5:00pm PST
Friday: 7:00am – 4:00pm PST
Saturday: 6:00am – 3:00pm PST
Sunday: 6:00am – 3:00pm PST
With offices in Scottsdale, San Francisco, London, Dublin, Copenhagen and Edinburgh, we can offer you unrivaled support while you are abroad. We truly believe all our clients deserve an extraordinary, authentic experience!
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