Best of Italy
Trip Details
La dolce vita - the good life - is exactly what this trip is all about. Starting in the 'Eternal City' of Rome and ending by the canals of Venice, uncover the best of northern Italy. Experience food, wine, history and style - all the things this wonderful country is famous for - and discover the natural beauty of this spectacular region.
Itinerary
Day 1 Rome
The iconic sights, fashionable streets and spacious piazzas of the ancient city of Rome are best explored on foot. Try to pack in those unmissable icons such as the Colosseum, the Spanish Steps and the Roman Forum. While sightseeing in Rome, be sure to do as the Romans do by sipping an espresso at one of the tiny, streetside cafes. For those captivated by the 'Eternal City', throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a return visit to Rome.
Days 2-3 Florence
Travel to Florence, Italy's 'outdoor museum', and marvel at its many wonders like the 13th century Duomo with its fiery depiction of the Last Judgement. Perhaps walk through the famed Uffizi Gallery, admire Michelangelo's David in the Galleria dell'Accademia and then climb to the Piazzale Michelangelo for sunset views of Florence across the city's rooftops.
Days 4-6 Lucca/Pisa
With its narrow streets, centuries-old churches and ancient ramparts, the medieval town of Lucca radiates charm. Explore the surrounding countryside by bicycle, perhaps stopping along the way to enjoy a Tuscan picnic. Take a daytrip to Torre de Pisa to see the world-famous Campo dei Miracoli, home to the Baptistry and, of course, its quirky leaning tower.
Days 7-8 Cinque Terre
Walk the Cinque Terre, starting from the gateway town of Levanto. Stride along this coastal path that famously links the five villages and be rewarded with stunning views and fresh sea air. For a more relaxed journey, take the local train between the clifftop towns. Afterwards, feast on succulent seafood, relax with a gelato or take a dip in the warm waters of the Mediterranean.
Days 9-10 Portofino/Piedmont
Visit the glamorous resort of Portofino and enjoy a boat tour to Santa Margherita before heading to Piedmont, where mouth-watering culinary delights await. Be sure to try a dish flavoured with truffle and quaff divine Italian wines celebrated the world over.
Days 11-12 Milan/Italian Lakes
Begin the day sashaying through Italy's style capital Milan then head to the lake country in the afternoon. Unwind by the emerald waters of Lake Como or take to the hills for great hiking and expansive mountain views. Beautiful Bellagio is only a short ferry ride away.
Days 13-15 Venice
Discover the magic of 'la dolce vita' in one of the world's most romantic cities, Venice. Tour down the Grand Canal, over the Rialto Bridge and across the evocative Bridge of Sighs before this Best of Italy tour concludes.