A Taste of Italy

Itinerary

Days 1-2 Venice

Board a traghetto to cross the Grand Canal, then work up an appetite for Venetian delicacies by exploring the narrow streets and tiny bridges around the canals. Sample the local cuisine of creamy risotto and polenta, but be sure to leave room for a sublime tiramisu. Take the vaporetto over to San Giorgio Island and climb its bell tower for magnificent views over the city.

Day 3 Modena

Stock up on the region's famous balsamic vinegar at an acetaia, where the exquisite elixir is made in the eaves of the building, then peruse the world's most decorated religious text, the Bible of Borso d'Este. Nobody should leave town without feasting on zampone (stuffed pig's trotter) washed down with a glass of Lambrusco, the famed Italian sparkling red wine.

Days 4-5 Cinque Terre

Enjoy sweeping views across the Mediterranean from the coastal path that links the five towns. Indulge in Liguria's famous pesto and focaccia, and take delight in frutti de mare straight from the turquoise waters below. Watch the pastel houses in the cliff-top villages become illuminated as the sun melts into the ocean - a truly sublime sight.

Days 6-7 Pisa/Florence

After marvelling at the Leaning Tower, explore Tuscany's romantic capital. This enchanting city is positively bursting with sights to explore, including the majestic Duomo and the beguiling Ponte Vecchio. Perhaps peruse the leather markets or walk up the hill to Piazzale Michelangelo to see the city at dusk

Days 8-9 Perugia/Spello

Beautiful Perugia is the perfect base for discovering the culinary treasures of Umbria. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Spello to sample fine local wines and scrumptious food at a quaint enoteca.

Days 10-12 Naples/Sorrento

Food lovers seeking the ultimate epicurean experience should look out for pizzerias bearing the words 'la vera pizza napolitana'; forego any fussy toppings and experience pizza in its most pure form. Enjoy a sojourn in the mythical home of the sirens on the Amalfi Coast. Wander through the remnants of Pompeii and scale the slopes of nearby Vesuvius.

Days 13-15 Rome

Grab a gelato and stroll through the streets of the Eternal City. Take snapshots of the enormous Colosseum, be awed by the Pantheon and be sure to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain for a dose of la dolce vita.