Amalfi (Italy) | Cinque Terre (Italy) | Florence (Tuscany, Italy) | Naples (Italy) | Rome (Italy) | Sorrento (Italy) | Venice (Italy)
The following are Journeys: Iconic Italy tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
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Arrive at any time and meet your fellow travellers at a welcome meeting. After an optional group dinner, join the Expedition Leader for an evening walk through the city to experience the beauty of Venice under the soft glow of twilight.
Please make your own way to the joining hotel.
Please make every effort to arrive on time for this important welcome meeting. If you are delayed and will arrive late, please inform us. Your National Geographic Expedition Leader will then leave you a message at the front desk informing you of where and when to meet up.
Set off with your Expedition Leader on an evening orientation walk to get your bearings and to see the gorgeous city all lit up at night. Hop on and off the local water taxis, called "vaporettos," as you navigate Venice's picturesque canals and waterways. Truly a city like nowhere on earth, the best way to explore it is on foot and from the water.
Your opportunity to meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Experience another side of Venice on a visit to nearby Murano Island. Walk through the town's charming streets and hear stories about Murano's rise as a glassmaking hub during the Renaissance. Watch master glass blowers transform molten glass into intricate pieces, using traditional techniques and hear from a local expert about how this traditional craftwork has spanned generations and become part of the cultural identity of the Venetian islands. Back in Venice, spend the afternoon exploring on your own. Perhaps visit the Guggenheim Museum, indulge in a Venetian food tour, find a quaint cafe on the Grand Canal or enjoy a Venetian gondola ride.
We recommend that you review optional activities to determine whether they require advanced reservations.
Experience the enchanting island of Murano on a private water taxi tour with a local expert. This excursion offers a unique glimpse into the rich history and artisanal traditions of Venice. Witness the intricate art of glassblowing in Murano. Visit an authentic workshop and hear from a local expert about the craft of traditional glassblowing and its significance to Murano's cultural heritage. Gain an understanding of the craft's history and ancient techniques, which have been featured in the National Geographic Magazine article "Made in Italy: Venice." These traditional craftworks have spanned generations and have become part of the cultural identity of the islands. Enjoy the serene beauty of this iconic island, away from the crowds.
Enjoy free time after approximately 15:30 today. Admire great Renaissance works of art at the Accademia or the Scuola di San Rocco, or visit the Peggy Guggenheim Gallery for more contemporary pieces.
Set off from Venice on a drive through the stunning landscapes of northern Italy to La Spezia, gateway to the spectacular Cinque Terre. From here, hop on a train to the seaside village of Monterosso al Mare, one of the area's 5 villages. Visit the town before choosing how best to continue exploring. Those seeking a more active option can join a local guide for an included moderate hike from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, following a trail along terraced landscapes and charming villages. Alternatively, continue exploring the coastal villages by train with your Expedition Leader who will provide additional insight into the region throughout your journey. Return to La Spezia and enjoy an evening exploring on your own.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Climb aboard, take your seat, and get around like the locals do.
Choose to explore the stunning area of Cinque Terre either on foot or by train. Those looking to hike will walk from the village of Monterosso to Vernazza along with a with local guide. This trail is part of the famous Sentiero Azzurro (Blue Trail) and it offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The path winds through terraced landscapes and charming villages, providing opportunities to learn about local history, culture, and flora. The hike concludes in the picturesque village of Vernazza, known for its colorful houses and vibrant harbor. The elevation gan and loss is approximately 230m. Alternatively, join your Expedition Leader to explore Cinque Terre's stunning landscapes and picturesque villages by train before returning to the hotel in the evening.
Enjoy the morning discovering Cinque Terre on your own or join your Expedition Leader on a visit to Portovenere, a charming seaside village with colourful houses and sparkling blue waters. Later, travel south to Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region. Walk through the lively and historic streets with the Expedition Leader, stopping for an aperitivo experience with a light dinner at a local bar. After, enjoy an evening stroll back to the hotel, taking in the beauty of the city's architecture and monuments lit up at night.
We recommend that you review optional activities to determine whether they require advanced reservations.
Enjoy a free morning before 12:00 in La Spezia to explore the city or take a short trip to the village of Portovenere.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Take a break: sip a pre-dinner drink and snack on some Italian specialties at a local bar.
Set off on a guided tour of Florence, a city renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant history. This walking experience, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Renaissance. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Il Duomo, which took more than 100 years to build. Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Learn about the city's illustrious past, from the powerful Medici family to its world-renowned artists. Afterward, continue to a delightful market, to explore vibrant stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses and cured meats. Savor the flavors of traditional Tuscan cuisine as you sample local products, including the renowned Pecorino cheese. This enriching experience offers a true taste of Florence's culinary heritage and will serve as a light lunch. Enjoy the rest of the day with free time to explore Florence's many plazas and world-class museums.
Il Duomo is viewed from the outside, admission inside is not included on the walking tour.
We recommend that you review optional activities to determine whether they require advanced reservations.
Enjoy the local specialities on this Expedition Leader-led market and food tour. Take in the sights, sounds, and smells, and enjoy every moment.
Discover the enchanting beauty and rich history of Florence on a guided tour through its iconic streets and landmarks. This immersive experience, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Renaissance. Marvel at the architectural splendor of the Duomo, explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Learn about the city's illustrious past, from its Medici rulers to its world-renowned artists.
There is so much of Florence to explore - its famous museums, galleries, cathedrals, and shops.Your free afternoon is expected to begin at approximately 13:30.
Take advantage of a free day in Florence to pursue whatever your interests may be. Perhaps visit the Galleria dell'Accademia, the Uffizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace or the Medici Chapels (note that some of the more popular attractions in Florence require pre-booking). Or explore the city on foot, stopping at cafes and gelato shops along the way. After an optional dinner out with the group, set off to the Piazzale Michelangelo and enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Florence, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the picturesque sunset.
If you wish to visit popular museums like the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries, we strongly advise reserving tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line for a long time (especially during the high season from May-September, where this can take several hours). Advance tickets can be reserved online at https://www.uffizi.it/en/tickets and https://www.galleriaaccademiafirenze.it/tickets
Cross through the centre of the city and over the Arno. Climb to the top of the hill and check out the vista over the river from Piazzale Michelangelo. It's worth every step!
Take advantage of a free day prior to 19:00 to discover the best of everything that Florence has to offer.
Hop on the train to Naples then get your bearings on a short orientation walk with your Expedition Leader. See the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, surrounded by the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. Nearby, view the elegant Galleria Umberto I, with its stunning glass dome and exquisite architecture. Continue north to Via Toledo, a bustling shopping street filled with vibrant shops and local eateries. This evening head out for a delicious foodie tour. Dig into the city's historic dishes from a classic Napoli Aperitivo to a Neapolitan pizza, then digest with a perfect gelato!-buon appetito!
It was noted in a National Geographic article that the Queen of Italy visited Naples in 1889 and as she and her husband were strolling through the city centre, they were taken by the delicious aroma coming from a pizzeria. The chef, Raffaele Esposito, was invited to the palace to cook the dish for the royal family once again. Of the three styles Esposito prepared, Queen Margherita preferred that which emulated the Italian flag; red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and fresh green basil; the modern day margherita pizza.
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Take a relaxed walk into Naples. Your Expedition Leader will point out some points of interest in the town, including great places for lunch.
Experience Naples through its iconic cuisine on the Naples Food Tour. Explore historic neighbourhoods like the Spanish Quarter while tasting famous local dishes, including Neapolitan pizza and gelato. Along the way, enjoy an aperitivo and learn about the rich history behind each meal.
Travel to the UNESCO World Site of Pompeii. Join an archaeologist to explore the fascinating ruins of this ancient city preserved in time by ash and volcanic debris following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Later, continue south to the picturesque coastal city of Sorrento. Soak in the captivating views of the Bay of Naples on a leisurely walk. Then, enjoy the rest of the evening exploring on your own.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Walk through the ruins of Pompeii, the city buried under ash and pumice when Mount Vesuvius erupted in AD 79. The forum, the baths and many houses remain well preserved and provide us with a glimpse of what life was like in the first century. Explore with an archaeologist, what is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe and is unparalleled in its preservation of an ancient city. This fascinating event is featured in the National Geographic documentary "Pompeii: Secrets of the Dead" in which forensic experts investigate why Pompeii's people couldn't escape.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Explore Piazza Tasso, the lively central square filled with cafes and shops and walk along Corso Italia which is Sorrento's main street, bustling with vibrant shops and historic buildings. Head to Villa Comunale Park for stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius.
Spend a free day in Sorrento to do as much or as little as you please. Perhaps explore the nearby island of Capri, boasting beautiful beaches, upscale boutiques, and historic landmarks. Alternatively, visit the volcanic island of Ischia, known for its thermal waters and stunning views of the medieval Aragonese Castle. You may also choose to stay in town and visit the Correale Museum, shop the city's many boutiques or relax at Piazza Tasso, a square lined with cafes and restaurants.
Stay in Sorrento and relax or visit the islands of Capri or Ischia.
This morning, set out on a visit to an organic lemon farm and stroll through the fragrant groves. Then, see how limoncello, the refreshing Italian lemon-flavored liqueur, is made. Later, travel by ferry to the town of Positano on the picturesque Amalfi coast and take in the picturesque views of the colourful, cliffside houses gradually receding into the distance. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore on your own then savor a dinner of delicious local dishes.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit an organic lemon farm and get an in-depth look at one of Italy's best-loved beverages, limoncello, from a local producer. Take in panoramic views of the sea as you stroll through the fragrant lemon groves and learn about the history of the agriturismo. See how limoncello is made from beginning to end and enjoy a taste of this delicious liqueur. Salute!
Climb aboard and get your float on.
After an early breakfast, set off on a hike along the famous "Path of the Gods" (weather permitting). Follow the ancient cliff top trail linking isolated farms, villages, churches and monasteries. Named from mythological roots, this trail is said to be the location where the gods rushed to Ulysses from the sirens of Capri. Historically, this path provided a link between some of Amalfi's small, coastal villages. Enjoy stunning views of bays and coastlines, interesting caves and rock formations, historic ruins and steep cliff sides. Continue to an agriturismo for lunch, which specializes in fresh home grown produce. Meet the family and tour the property-a converted 17th-century monastery, and then enjoy the remainder of the day on your own.
Set off from the agriturismo to Bomerano and follow the path along the Amalfi Coast. This trail offers panoramic views of the Coast, with its dramatic cliffs and azure sea below. As you walk, you'll pass through fragrant Mediterranean vegetation and ancient stone pathways. This is a well-marked trail with rocky, uneven sections, dirt paths, and steep steps. Note that hikes are accessible for all travellers, but there can be sections that are more strenuous and challenging due to terrain. Please ensure you have proper closed-toe hiking footwear.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Enjoy lunch at a charming agriturismo that specializes in homegrown, delicious produce. Meet the family and tour the historic property, a converted 17th-century monastery. Explore the farm with one of our hosts, learning about local crops, herbs and vegetables that are the key ingredients in regional cuisine; then sit down to a wonderful meal of local fare surrounded by gardens, open terraces and groves, overlooking the Mediterranean.
Travel north to Rome, Italy's capital city and cultural hub. Settle into the hotel and enjoy some free time before regrouping in the evening for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Then, take a walking tour where you'll experience Rome's iconic landmarks lit up at night. At the Spanish Steps, begin the walk by heading down Via dei Condotti lined with high-end boutiques and bustling cafes. Stroll towards the Trevi Fountain, an iconic masterpiece where you can toss a coin for luck. Continue to the Pantheon walking along charming, narrow streets and bustling squares until you reach Piazza Navona, a grand Baroque square adorned with beautiful fountains, street artists and outdoor cafes-perfect for soaking in the lively Roman ambiance.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Starting at the Spanish Steps, a stunning staircase that invites you to take in the vibrant atmosphere and views of Rome, begin your walk by heading down Via dei Condotti, lined with high-end boutiques and bustling cafes. Stroll towards the Trevi Fountain, an iconic masterpiece where you can toss a coin for luck. Continue your journey to the Pantheon, Finally, meander through charming narrow streets and lively squares until you reach Piazza Navona, a grand Baroque square adorned with beautiful fountains, street artists, and outdoor cafes, perfect for soaking in the lively Roman ambiance.
Enjoy a free day to explore Rome on your own. Perhaps visit the Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, and the Roman Forum, previous home to public meetings, court proceedings, and gladiatorial combats. Alternatively, explore the Vatican, home of St. Peter's Basilica and Leonardo Michelangelo's famed masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Or choose to spend time wandering the streets and palazzi, taking time to enjoy a coffee or gelato -and embrace la dolce vita!.
Be sure to watch the National geographic documentary series "Lost Treasures of Rome" for added insight into the history of this ancient city.
Please note that if Vatican City is on your must-see list, we highly recommend purchasing your tickets online several weeks prior to your trip. Advance tickets can be reserved online at https://tickets.museivaticani.va/home. Same-day entrance to St. Peter's Basilica and the Vatican Museums (including the Sistine Chapel) cannot be guaranteed without advance tickets.We also recommend pre-booking your ticket to the Colosseum to guarantee entrance and avoid long queues:https://ticketing.colosseo.it/en
There are endless places to explore in the Eternal City; monuments, churches, fountains, and squares. Shop along Via Veneto, climb the Spanish Steps, or take a walk in Trastevere.
Depart at any time.
Not ready to leave? Your Expedition Leader can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Journeys: Iconic Italy tour:
Via Belvedere 73
Agerola, Italy-80051
Via Luigi Alamanni 3
Florence, Italy-50123
Via Pietro Paleocapa, 7
La Spezia, Italy-19122
Via Palepoli, 12
Naples, Italy-80132
Via Luigi Rizzo, 20
Rome, Italy-00136
Corso Marion Crawford, 40
Sorrento, Italy-80065
Conad - Supermercato, Calle dei Riformati, 3210A
Venice, Italy-30121
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Journeys: Iconic Italy tour:
Max 16, Avg 10.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Murano Island Glass Blowing Experience with a Local Expert, VeniceYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Pompeii with an Archaeologist, PompeiiYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Sorrento Lemon Farm and Limoncello Tasting, SorrentoYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Amalfi Agriturismo Experience, AmalfiYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and GroupYour Foodie Moment: Florence Market and Food Tour, FlorenceYour Foodie Moment: Naples Food Tour with a Local Guide, NaplesYour Discover Moment: Rome. Orientation walks in Venice, Florence, Naples and Sorrento. Hike from village-to-village in Cinque Terre or explore by train. Aperitivo experience in Florence. Guided walking tour of Florence. Evening walk to Piazzale Michaelangelo. Walking food tour of Naples. Amalfi Coast "Path of the Gods" hike (weather permitting). Evening walking tour of Rome. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Gaze in awe at the Renaissance treasures in iconic Venice and Florence, Immerse in the spectacular scenery of Cinque Terre on a hike or by train, Learn the art of making limoncello and enjoy a taste of this refreshing Italian liqueur at a lemon farm, Enjoy stunning scenery of cliffside villages along the Amalfi Coast as you lace up your hiking boots and set off on the famed Path of the Gods hike, Explore iconic Rome and learn of its ancient history on a walking tour
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your Expedition Leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy please bear in mind that all clients must have medical coverage and that we require a minimum coverage of USD 200,000 for repatriation and emergency rescue. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Venice- Guggenheim Museum Visit (15EUR per person)- Venice Food Tour- Campanile San Marco Lookout (8EUR per person)- Doge's Palace (Palazzo Ducale) Visit (17EUR per person)- Gondola Ride (80EUR per group)Piazza San Marco- Saint Mark's Square and Basilica Visit (Free)Portovenere- Visit PortovenereGallerie dell'Accademia- Galleria dell'Accademia Visit (20EUR per person)Florence- Uffizi Gallery Visit (25EUR per person)- Pitti Palace - Palatine Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (17.75EUR per person)- Medici Chapels Visit (9-32EUR per person)Sorrento- Correale Museum Visit (7EUR per person)Herculaneum- Herculaneum Visit (13EUR per person)Capri- Capri Excursion (100-120EUR per person)Ischia- Ischia Excursion (80EUR per person)Vatican City- Vatican Museum Visit (20-25EUR per person)- Vatican City Visit (Free)Rome- Colosseum Visit (24EUR per person)- Rome Street Food Tour (65EUR per person)
Intercity transport on this trip will mostly be by train and occasionally by private transport. The train systems in Italy are generally good, with seat reservations and toilet/snack facilities on longer journeys. Keeping to schedules is notoriously not one of the Italian transport system's specialties, so pack in your iPod, a good book and some Italian phrases, and kick-back and enjoy the views with the locals.Please note that you MUST be comfortable carrying your own luggage as there will be a lot of up and down stairs on this trip due to the nature of station layouts in Italy (very few are equipped with escalators or elevators). Between public transport and hotels you may be required to carry your luggage short distances (up to 15mins walk), in larger cities you may travel by metro or city bus, and occasionally the group will take taxis to and from hotels.
Hotels (13 nts).
13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 4 dinners
Eating is a big part of travelling. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your Expedition Leader will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. The above information applies to G Adventures group trips. For Independent trips please check the itinerary for details of meals included. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout, local guides.
All G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout. The aim of the Expedition Leaders is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour. However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details. In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Train, private minivan/bus, boat, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
In Italy, shoulders should be covered while visiting churches and cathedrals. Ask your Expedition Leader for more specific advice.
Conservative Dress:o Modest clothing that covers knees and shoulders (Long pants, long skirts, shirts that cover shoulders)o Shawl or scarf (for temple visits)Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Light Hiking:o Hiking bootso Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)o Walking poles Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, on and off transportation, and to hotels (max 15-20 mins.)
Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge or ask your Expedition Leader where the closest laundromat is. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.