22-Day Ultimate Italy
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Child age: 0-12
Highlights
We've been visiting Italy for decades, but it's fair to say we've never put together an adventure quite like this. From Rome this one glides through Renaissance Florence and the glitzy Riviera, with cooking demos and historical monuments galore along the way. Then onto Naples and Pompeii, for a feast of pizza and ancient Roman history, before hitting up the incomparable Amalfi coast. After cruising around some dazzling isles and visiting some lemon groves, we'll head back to Rome. But we're not done yet - not even close. Sicily beckons, with its valleys of ancient archaeological wonders, volcanoes to explore, coastal towns to fall in love with and all of the heavenly carbs we can fit in. After a full week on this paradise island, we'll be head-over-heels for absolutely everything Italian. It's called Ultimate Italy for a reason.
Dates & Prices
Price in USD (per person, based on double occupancy)
Itinerary
Welcome to Rome! Once known as the 'capital of the world' this richly historic, passionate and elegant city will steal our hearts as soon as we arrive. We'll meet and greet our Contiki crew, before taking to the streets for an included Italian feast. After dinner we'll head on an orientation tour of the city ticking off all the sights in Rome.
Rome, Italy
The history of this amazing city spans more than two and a half thousand years. It is one of the most historic places on the planet Earth, and it's artistic and cultural contributions have colored global development.
Rise and shine, we're headed to another historical heavyweight today... ...but not before stopping off at Siena for lunch. This place has medieval masterpieces (the historic city centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site too!). So, soak up all that historic beauty & grab a bite before we head onto Florence. This beautiful city is a certified foodie capital, so we’re diving straight into an included feast of local delicacies. Then it’s lights out, with dreams of tomorrow’s Florentine adventures dancing in our heads.
Siena, Italy
Famous for its cuisine, art, museums, medieval cityscape, and the Palio, an annual horse race, Siena is a city in Italy, and one of the country's most visited tourist attractions. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Florence, Italy
Historic Florence, Italy is considered to be one of the most gorgeous cities in the world. Its long tradition of art and culture can be seen on nearly every doorstep. Millions of people travel here each year.
Florence is basically a giant open-air museum, and today we’re hitting it on foot. With a Local Guide, we’ll check out Giotto’s Bell Tower, Basilica Santa Croce, Piazza della Signoria, and the epic Duomo. Tonight, it’s all about an optional Tuscan evening with a risotto demo, local wine, antipasto, and some ‘dolce’ to finish.
Florence, Italy
Historic Florence, Italy is considered to be one of the most gorgeous cities in the world. Its long tradition of art and culture can be seen on nearly every doorstep. Millions of people travel here each year.
Farewell, Florence. We'll never forget you. But we've got more dreamy Italian hot spots to hit up. Now we get to stopover at lovely Lucca, with its charming piazzas, Renaissance architecture and historic cafes. Opt for wines at the local vineyards outside of Lucca. Or it's a perfect spot to grab a bite before we hit the road again. We can't be this way of the world without a sneaky visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa! And that’s exactly what we’ll do this afternoon. Welcome to the Italian Riviera! You're going to fall head over heels with this region over the coming days...
Lucca, Italy
Lucca is the capital city of the province by the same name. Located on the Serchio river in Italy’s Tuscany region, Lucca is world renowned for well-preserved Renaissance walls encircling its historic city center and its cobblestone streets.
Pisa, Italy
This Tuscan town on the Tyrrhenian Sea in northern Italy is most famous for its Leaning Tower. However, there are many more works of art and architecture to see, and time spent in Pisa will not be easily forgotten!
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful fishing villages on the Italian Riviera coastline. A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its steep cliffs, vibrant houses, and scenic hiking trails.
Cinque Terre isn’t one town, it’s five coastal gems, each with its own vibe and postcard views. We’ll sort you out with an unlimited hike & train pass. Which means you can cliff-walk, station-hop, and soak up pastel perfection all day long.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful fishing villages on the Italian Riviera coastline. A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its steep cliffs, vibrant houses, and scenic hiking trails.
This morning, we're hitting the road today to one of the most elegant cities in Europe. Before that, a quick stop to experience the glitz and glamour of Lake Como. The showstopper is the lake itself, of course, and you'll also have the option to get out on the water for a cruise. Welcome to Milan – all style, all sass. Tonight’s free for you to chase down the best eats, sip on local flavours, and see where the night takes you. Your Trip Manager’s got the inside scoop on the must-dos.
Cinque Terre
Cinque Terre is a string of five colorful fishing villages on the Italian Riviera coastline. A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its steep cliffs, vibrant houses, and scenic hiking trails.
Como, Italy
The administrative capital of the Province of Como.Its proximity to Lake Como and to the Alps has made Como a tourist destination, and the city contains numerous works of art, churches, gardens, museums, theatres, parks and palaces.
Milan, Italy
This city in the northernmost part of Italy is a global center for fashion and design. Its artistic history dates back hundreds and hundreds of years; places like Santa Maria delle Grazie are decorated with Leonardo da Vinci's work.
The dreamy destinations just don't stop coming... Welcome to Verona – Renaissance romance central and the real-life stage for Shakespeare’s Romeo & Juliet. We’ll swing by Juliet’s house (yep, the actual one!), then it’s off to our next dose of Italian romance. Ciao Treviso. This low-key charmer is basically Venice’s relaxed cousin. Tonight’s free for you to wander cobbled streets, feast on local bites, and maybe hunt down the OG tiramisu (yep, it was born here). Tomorrow, we take on the real Venice.
Verona, Italy
It is one of the main tourist destinations in northern Italy, owing to its artistic heritage, several annual fairs, shows, and operas, such as the lyrical season in the Arena, the ancient amphitheatre built by the Romans.
Treviso, Italy
Treviso is a city in the Veneto region of Italy, known for its canals, medieval walls, and culinary delights, often called the 'hidden gem of the Veneto'.
Wake-up sleeping beauties! Hop onto our coach because we've got the entire day to explore Venice. We'll be jumping aboard our own private boat and crossing the canal en route to the historical heart of the city. A gondola ride will be up for grabs, or if you wanna escape the crowds, there's also an optional Burano Island Cruise that you'll love. Or you can always choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you. Our day ends where it started in Treviso, where it's time to tuck in for tomorrow.
Treviso, Italy
Treviso is a city in the Veneto region of Italy, known for its canals, medieval walls, and culinary delights, often called the 'hidden gem of the Veneto'.
Venice, Italy
This city off the coast of northeast Italy is famous the world over for its many canals. It is actually a chain of 118 islands linked together by bridges and waterways. Venice is world-renown for its art and beauty.
Treviso, Italy
Treviso is a city in the Veneto region of Italy, known for its canals, medieval walls, and culinary delights, often called the 'hidden gem of the Veneto'.
See ya, Treviso. You'll always have a piece of our hearts. Today we're headed back to Rome with a delicious lil’ stop on the way. Home of prosciutto, mortadella, bolognese sauce and many more tasty Italian delights, Bologna is known far and wide as La Grassa (the Fat One). Come hungry, but make sure you’re not too full to explore the UNESCO listed porticoes either. It’s a free night for dinner and a chance to dine on a wholesome meal in a converted underground wine cellar. All washed down with some fine Italian wine? If you say so.
Treviso, Italy
Treviso is a city in the Veneto region of Italy, known for its canals, medieval walls, and culinary delights, often called the 'hidden gem of the Veneto'.
Bologna, Italy
The capital and largest city of the Emilia-Romagna Region in Northern Italy.Famous for its towers, churches and lengthy porticoes, Bologna has a well-preserved historical centre. In 2000 it was declared European capital of culture and in 2006, a UNESCO "city of music".
Rome, Italy
The history of this amazing city spans more than two and a half thousand years. It is one of the most historic places on the planet Earth, and it's artistic and cultural contributions have colored global development.
Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city. Take a tour of the famous Colosseum and walk in the footsteps of Emperors and Gladiators with a guide, or snap epic selfies against a background of pink azaleas by the entrance. This is also the day to do a bit of your own exploring. Tonight, we’ll regroup for an included dinner.
Rome, Italy
The history of this amazing city spans more than two and a half thousand years. It is one of the most historic places on the planet Earth, and it's artistic and cultural contributions have colored global development.
Today we're headed to another richly historical and cultural city, known for its naturally beautiful sights and excellent cuisine. Here in the ancient city of Pompeii, you'll have the option to partake in a guided walking tour of the fascinating ancient Roman town that was destroyed by Vesuvius (and then perfectly preserved in volcanic ash!). Hello Naples! We’ll settle down in our beautiful hotel (that’s just a few mins from the historic city centre). Today we have the option to take a tour, learn about the city, its history and its food culture.
Pompeii, Italy
Pompeii is a vast archaeological site in southern Italy's Campania region. Once a thriving and sophisticated Roman city, Pompeii was buried in meters of ash and pumice after the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 C.E.
Naples, Italy
is the capital of the Italian region Campania and the third-largest municipality in Italy, after Rome and Milan. In 2015, around 975,260 people lived within the city's administrative limits.
Today we swap city vibes for coastal dreams, chasing some of Europe’s most glamorous seascapes along the way. Capri’s up next – all dramatic cliffs, luxe cafes, and serious celeb energy. Join the optional cruise for swim stops in turquoise coves that’ll have you feeling like you’re in a movie. We’ll roll into the Amalfi Coast after a day of pastel-perfect towns, sun-bleached buildings, and seas so sparkly they could blind you (in the best way).
Naples, Italy
is the capital of the Italian region Campania and the third-largest municipality in Italy, after Rome and Milan. In 2015, around 975,260 people lived within the city's administrative limits.
Capri, Italy
Capri is an island located in the Tyrrhenian Sea off the Sorrentine Peninsula, on the south side of the Gulf of Naples in the Campania region of Italy. The main town Capri that is located on the island shares the name. It has been a resort since the time of the Roman Republic.
Amalfi Coast
A popular tourist destination for the region and Italy as a whole, attracting thousands of tourists annually.In 1997, the Amalfi Coast was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We've got a free day on the Amalfi Coast! Lucky us. Plus, there's an optional visit to a lemon farm, run by a local family whose ancestors introduced the crop. Dramatic cliffs and idyllic buildings await us in picturesque Positano. Amalfi’s just getting started. Aaaand, we’re here. You've got the entire evening for yourself. Roam the streets, taste some wine, live the Italian life we've all dreamed of.
Amalfi Coast
A popular tourist destination for the region and Italy as a whole, attracting thousands of tourists annually.In 1997, the Amalfi Coast was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Positano, Italy
Positano is one of the most famous and photogenic towns on the Amalfi Coast, renowned for its pastel-colored houses cascading down the cliffside, narrow stepped streets, and pebble beaches.
Amalfi Coast
A popular tourist destination for the region and Italy as a whole, attracting thousands of tourists annually.In 1997, the Amalfi Coast was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rome, we’re coming back for you! Back in Rome for round three – more history, more foodie finds, and more photo ops. Tonight, you can join a local chef to whip up your own pasta masterpiece… and then eat every last bite.
Amalfi Coast
A popular tourist destination for the region and Italy as a whole, attracting thousands of tourists annually.In 1997, the Amalfi Coast was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rome, Italy
The history of this amazing city spans more than two and a half thousand years. It is one of the most historic places on the planet Earth, and it's artistic and cultural contributions have colored global development.
Today we're hopping on a speedy flight to the incomparable isle of Sicily. This colourful mix of baroque piazzas and ancient ruins is your perfect Sicilian welcome. We’ll explore Catania’s UNESCO-listed historic core before sitting down to an included dinner at a local spot.
Catania, Italy
An Italian city on the east coast of Sicily facing the Ionian Sea. In the 14th century and into the Renaissance period, Catania was one of Italy's most important cultural, artistic and political centres. The city has a rich culture and history, hosting many museums, restaurants, churches, parks and theatres.
We've got more spectacular Sicilian towns to explore today, as we head from Catania to Taormina. Perched on a mountainside and serving peak Italian elegance, Taormina is all about la dolce vita. We’ll ride the cable car, soak up the sun, and live our best holiday lives. Feeling foodie? Opt for a cooking class with local pros and master Sicilian specialities like arancini and cannoli.
Taormina, Italy
A small city and comune in the Metropolitan City of Messina on the east coast of the island of Sicily. A tourist destination since the 19th century.
Today’s optional is a total thrill - a ride up Mt Etna (AKA Europe’s highest active volcano!), passing vineyards and orchards that scream Sicilian magic. Not feeling the volcano vibe? No worries — your day's free to chill on the beach, explore the ancient Roman theatre, or sip a spritz and watch life drift by in true Italian style.
Taormina, Italy
A small city and comune in the Metropolitan City of Messina on the east coast of the island of Sicily. A tourist destination since the 19th century.
See ya later, Taormina – it's time to visit some historical hotspots. We’ll have some free time to check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Syracuse. Famed for its rich ancient Roman and Greek history, with ancient amphitheatres and architecture everywhere you look. Next stop: Noto, Sicily’s baroque beauty packed with stunning architecture and legendary landmarks like Corso Vittoria Emanuele. After soaking up the sights, we’re heading to an organic farm for a Tastes of Sicily experience - think farm-fresh flavours served straight to your plate. And after a long but lovely day, it’s finally time to hit the hay.
Syracuse, Italy
A historic city in Sicily notable for its rich Greek history, culture, amphitheatres, architecture.Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site along with the Necropolis of Pantalica.
Noto, Italy
A city and comune in the Province of Syracuse, Sicily, Italy. In 2002 Noto and its church were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Heading from Syracuse we'll arrive in the Valley of the Temples, the perfect base to explore another ancient wonder... Leaving Italy without visiting the Valley of the Temples? Impossible. This mystical valley is a treasure trove of historical and archaeological heritage. We'll discover ancient temples, sanctuaries and a necropolis. Arriving in Cefalù we'll enjoy some free time where you can find your own delicious Sicilian delicacies.
Valley of the Temples, Italy
Ancient Greek archaeological site in Sicily with remarkably preserved temples.
Cefalu, Italy
Cefalu, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, is one of the most evocative destinations on the island. It is located on the northern coast of Sicily, on the A20 road.
Cefalù is a real gem, home to Sicily's best beaches and most impressive Arabic architecture. Today's all about coastal vibes, soaking up that sun, sea and sand — with plenty of water sports to get involved with. If you're feeling a little more zen, why not opt for the coastal cruise and soak up some scenery instead? Later on, we'll stroll the winding cobbled streets and watch fishermen taking stock of the day's bounties, before exploring the town's foodie and nightlife scene.
Cefalu, Italy
Cefalu, one of the most beautiful villages in Italy, is one of the most evocative destinations on the island. It is located on the northern coast of Sicily, on the A20 road.
It's time to end on a high, as we make our way towards Sicily's sizzling capital. Palermo’s a vibrant, colourful city with a food scene that’ll blow your mind. But it’s also got a complex history with the Mafia. Today, you’ll join a walking tour through the historic centre to hear the real story behind Palermo’s fight against organised crime and the rise of the anti-Mafia movement. Then, we’ll finish strong with a farewell dinner Al Fresco, at the ‘bistro of second chances’.
Palermo, Italy
Palermo is the largest city on the island of Sicily. Over 2,700 years old, it was first founded by the ancient Phoenicians. It is Sicily's main center of culture and economy.
Time to head home after one final breakfast together (sob). Hug it out, swap social details — and don't be sad. We'll see each other on the road again soon...
Includes & Excludes
Price Includes
Additional Notes
- DAY 1: Trip starts in Rome at 16:00. Travellers to arrive into Rome Fiumicino International Airport (FCO). The kick-start meeting starts at 16:00. Recommended flight arrival time by 13:00 to avoid missing the kick-start meeting.
- DAY 22: Trip ends in Palermo at 10:00. Travellers to depart from Falcone Borsellino Airport (PMO).
- TRANSFERS: Both complimentary and chargeable transfers are not offered through Contiki. Travellers should make their own way from/to the airport at their own expense.
- INTERNAL FLIGHTS: Luggage allowance is limited to 1 suitcase per guest (maximum of 44lbs/20Kg) and 1 piece of hand luggage per guest 12"x11"x6"(30x28x14cm). Refer to trip documents for any exceptions.
Policies
All purchases are subject to re-confirmation within 2-3 business days after booking. Please do not book airline tickets until you have received the confirmation.
Complete operator information, including local telephone numbers at your destination, is included on your e-ticket. You must print the e-tickets and take them along on your trip; they are your proof of purchase.
Travel Documents
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Each passenger must carry a valid travel document. (Valid visa for countries needed) (E.g. Green Card, Passport, Re-Entry Permit, and etc.) Tour operator is not responsible for lost or stolen personal items.
Cancellation penalties per person (request day and departure day are not counted)
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
30 days or more prior to departure - $175/person penalty.
2-29 days or more prior to departure - $280/person penalty.
Day of departure no show or late - 100% per person.
If the tour include airtickets, additional $75+airline surcharge will be charged as penalty.
Unused features are non-refundable. No shows forfeit entire payment.
Trips require a minimum number of participants to avoid cancellation. We reserve the right to cancel a scheduled trip to fully refund affected customers although tour companies will make every effort to maintain normal operations.
The refund amount will be credited directly to your TakeTours wallet as credits for future use. Or the refund can also be forwarded directly to your credit card with a 6% handling fee.
NOTE: We cannot grant any refunds more than 30 days after completion of the tour.
Q & A
Popular FAQs
London: A modular trip means fellow travellers will join and leave at various locations. There’ll be some goodbyes, sure, but there’ll also be plenty of hellos with new like-minded travellers.
Rome: If you require arrangements to be made for your accessibility needs, please inform your Trip Manager as soon as possible. We try our best to contact all accommodations and secure ground floor rooms for easy wheelchair access.Please remember that Italy can be physically challenging to get around. Coaches can’t access historical centers, and there will be lots of walking (on roads that are often uneven and cobbled). Travellers with accessibility needs will find this trip challenging.
Madrid: Yep. Usually, we arrange a buffet for all your included meals. If you’d like a vegetarian option, please inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they’ll sort it out for you.
Rome: This would depend on the museums & attractions you’re planning to visit. If you’d like to know the exact timings, please contact our 24x7 Helpline to access your day-to-day itineraries to check when you’ll have free time in each city.
Madrid: Of course! Just inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration on the coach. Please remember that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you’ll have to take your medication with you into your accommodation. We recommend that you bring a cooler bag with you as a backup. It’s your responsibility to store your medication with care.
Rome: If you require arrangements to be made for your accessibility needs, please inform your Trip Manager as soon as possible. We try our best to contact all accommodations and secure ground floor rooms for easy wheelchair access.Please remember that Italy can be physically challenging to get around. Coaches can’t access historical centers, and there will be lots of walking (on roads that are often uneven and cobbled). Travellers with accessibility needs will find this trip challenging.
Madrid: Yep. Usually, we arrange a buffet for all your included meals. If you’d like a vegetarian option, please inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they’ll sort it out for you.
Rome: This would depend on the museums & attractions you’re planning to visit. If you’d like to know the exact timings, please contact our 24x7 Helpline to access your day-to-day itineraries to check when you’ll have free time in each city.
Madrid: Of course! Just inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration on the coach. Please remember that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you’ll have to take your medication with you into your accommodation. We recommend that you bring a cooler bag with you as a backup. It’s your responsibility to store your medication with care.
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