DREAMING OF ITALY?
ITALY WITH FRIENDS TOURS
2024 LAND ONLY TOUR PRICES
Airfare NOT Included
Tour begins in Rome and ends in Venice.
Tour is for 12days/11 nights.
The total cost per person is $4199.00 with double occupancy.
(Includes Euro exchange rate adjustment. Does not include local city hotel tax)
Traveling solo? Sadly, most hotels only have a few single rooms, so many times they provide what they term "double for single use". They do however, charge a premium for the luxury of staying alone. I am faced with this all the time. If you cannot find a partner, I will be glad to match up single travelers if at all possible. Otherwise, the single supplement for this tour is $650.00 extra per person.
ITALY WITH FRIENDS
ITALIAN DISCOVERY TOUR
March 16 - 27, 2024
- Visit the Eternal City of Roma.
- Spend the day in Vatican City.
- Visit the grand hill town of Orvieto.
- Explore medieval Siena.
- Savor Delicious Italian Cuisine.
- Learn the Art of wine tasting at lovely Castello Verrazzano.
- Stroll through delightful hilltop villages like San Gimignano and Monteriggione.
- Discover Renaissance Florence.
- See famous works of art, including Michelangelo's David.
- Glide through magical Venice.
THE FOLLOWING IS INCLUDED IN YOUR ITALY WITH FRIENDS TOUR:
- 11 nights accommodation in 3-4 star, centrally located hotels with private bath or shower.
- An extensive meal plan: 11 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 5 dinners (D) Bottled water, tea or coffee are included with all meals. Wine is included with all dinners (2 glass limit per person, either red or white LOL).
- All ground transportation for tour while in Italy.
- Guided sightseeing and entrance fees to select sights and museums as described in itinerary.
- Wine tasting of Vernaccia, Chianti Classico and Orvieto Classico.
- Pre-tour visit with travel information including maps, literature and reading list.
- Plenty of memories to last a lifetime.
- Surprises along the way.
NOT INCLUDED:
- Airfare is not included. Transportation to and from airports or train stations in Rome or Venice are not included.
- Local city taxes imposed on hotels are not included and must be paid by guest in Euro directly to hotel at checkout. (These range anywhere from 2 - 6 Euro per person, per night, depending on city)
- Does not include remaining meals, alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages at included meals.
- Does not include travel insurance.
Note on Physical Activity
You must be in very good physical condition to sign-up for this trip. This is not a "walking or hiking" tour, but there will be plenty of walking, some uphill and most on uneven cobblestones. You will need to be on your feet for extended periods of time. (Especially in museums and in Rome.) I am NOT exaggerating about this! There are many steps throughout the trip that you will have to climb. A hilltown really means a hilltown! You will also have to handle your own luggage most of the time. Many hotels do not have elevators. If for some reason you are unable to take part in all scheduled activities, you can usually stay at the hotel and relax. I will be glad to work with you on possible alternative activities if they are possible, but cannot guarantee it and you will not be compensated for this time on your own. Also, if you decide to take public transportation to or from a sight or restaurant that I usually walk to, it will be at your own expense. Please make sure that you do understand these requirements fully before you consider signing up for one of my tours. I will plan time for you to relax, but have found that most people want to see as much as possible while in Italy. Most towns are made for walking and this is how we get around. Don't worry, I bring plenty of ibuprofen along.
ACTIVITY AND WALKING KEY:
- LIGHT = 2-4 miles of mostly level walking (some cobblestones) throughout the day.
- MODERATE = 2-6 miles walking throughout the day with some hills and stairs.
- STRENUOUS = 2-8 miles walking throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, or uneven terrain.
Reservations, Deposits and Payments:
A $500.00 non-refundable deposit will hold your place on the tour. Remember the tours are limited in size to 4-8 people. Payment is accepted by check, bank transfer or credit card through Zelle or other Cash Apps. Your deposit is credited against the total tour cost. Final payment is required no later than 60 days prior to departure.
Contact me for information on paying with PayPal or Bank Transfer.
**( Itinerary is subject to change and variations with and/or without notice.)**
Day 0 - Depart USA - Friday, March 15, 2024
Remember you will arrive in Europe the day after you depart the USA. You will need to book your air travel so that you arrive in Rome early enough to check into your hotel and be ready to meet with the group for sightseeing at 3 PM on Saturday, March 16, 2024.
Day 1 - Arrival Day - Benvenuto to Roma, The Eternal City - Saturday, March 16, 2024
Welcome to Italy! Arrive in ROME and meet at 3:00 PM for orientation in the hotel lobby of the Hotel Borgognoni before we begin our sightseeing with a walking tour of Rome's historical district. We will visit the Pantheon, the church of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, Piazza Navona, and the Trevi Fountain along the way. We will enjoy a welcome dinner in a typical Roman trattoria. We will toast the start of our Italian discovery with a sparkling Prosecco. Salute! We will then end our evening with a visit to one of Rome's most famous landmarks, the Spanish Steps. (D) Moderate
Day 2 - The Wonders of Ancient Rome- Sunday, March 17, 2024
Today will be a full day of sightseeing starting with a walking tour of Ancient Rome's most important sights. We will begin with a visit inside the Pantheon, one of the most important buildings in Italy. The Colosseum is one of the most impressive sights in the entire city of Rome. We will visit inside and learn about 'Bread and Circuses' and the Gladiatorial games. We will enjoy lunch together in a restaurant overlooking the Colosseum. We will then walk among the ruins of the Roman Forum, the political and religious center of ancient Rome. There will be time to learn of the origins of Rome as we visit the Campidoglio which sits on the Capitoline Hill.
Afterwards you will have some free time to continue your ancient history lesson with a visit to Palatine Hill or other spots in Rome. You will have the evening free to enjoy as you like. (B) (L) Very Strenuous
Day 3 - The Treasures of Vatican City - Monday, March 18, 2024
Our first stop this morning will be at Campo de Fiore with its lively market. We then continue our walk crossing the Tiber river on the Ponte Sant' Angelo lined with the beautiful Bernini Angels. This bridge leads to the Castel Sant'Angelo, built as a tomb for the Emperor Hadrian.
From here we will cross into Vatican City, a tiny independent country. We will take some time for lunch together at a little outdoor cafe. We will then spend a big part of our day visiting the Vatican Museum with its famous Sistine Chapel followed by a visit inside St. Peter's Basilica, the largest and grandest church in Christendom. You will then have free time to enjoy your last night in this magnificent city. (B) (L) Very Strenuous
Day 4 - The Italian Countryside Awaits! - Tuesday, March 19, 2024
This morning we say "arrivederci" to Rome and head into the Italian countryside and the nearby region of Umbria. Orvieto sits majestically atop an outcrop of volcanic tufa stone with thousands of caves underneath the city, dug out during Etruscan, Medieval and Renaissance times. Orvieto was once an important Etruscan city. Today it is famous for one of Italy's most beautiful Gothic cathedrals, and a delicious white wine, Orvieto Classico.
We will then take time to enjoy this grand hill town. We will visit inside the Duomo, 300 years in construction, with its San Brizio Chapel covered in frescos by Luca Signorelli. You may wish to tour the fascinating Orvieto Underground to see thousands of years of archaeological history. There will be time for lunch and shopping.
We will then continue our discovery of the Italian countryside as we head to the region of Tuscany, and our overnight destination of Siena. This popular Tuscan city has a medieval character that has survived to an amazing extent. Siena's heart is the shell shaped Piazza del Campo or Il Campo. This is one of Italy's most famous and most beautiful squares. The Palio, a renowned horse race takes place twice a year right here. After some time to settle into our little Tuscan hide away, we will visit Il Campo and enjoy an apperitivo together. (B) (L) Moderate
Day 5 - Siena, A Tuscan Treasure - Wednesday, March 20, 2024
Take a few moments this morning to relax and enjoy the lovely setting in Siena. Yes, you are really in Tuscany! We will meet for a walking tour of Siena which will include stops at several shops selling some of the local food products such as panforte and pecorino cheese.
We will also visit the massive Siena Duomo, one of the most ornate in Italy. The inside of the Duomo is as ornate as the outside with its famous marble floors and sculptures by Michelangelo, Pisano, and Bernini. The Piccolomini Library has some stunning 500+ year old frescos that depict the life of Pope Pius II. Afterwards, you will have time to enjoy more of Siena on your own.
Later we will make a short drive into the beautiful Chianti region filled with forests and perfectly manicured vineyards and olive groves on our way to Castellina in Chianti. Castellina was an important settlement of the Etruscans, an ancient people for which Tuscany is named. It is a lovely little village with many shops and even a small castle. We will enjoy a pizza dinner here at the local pizzeria set right on the main drag. After a lovely evening enjoying “la dolce vita”, we will return to our hotel in Siena for the night. (B) (D) Moderate
Day 6 - Castello da Verrazzano & the City of Towers - Thursday, March 21, 2024
No trip to Tuscany would be complete without a visit to a local winery. We will visit one of the oldest in the region, the 11th Century Castello Verrazzano. The hilltop location of this estate and winery is just spectacular. The Chianti countryside surrounding Verrazzano is dotted with castles, vineyards and olive groves and is truly magnificent. You will enjoy a guided tour of the castle grounds and ancient ageing cellars, followed by a feast of homemade Tuscan favorites accompanied by a range of delicious wines made by the Verrazzano winery. You will have the opportunity to learn the art of wine making and wine tasting in this relaxed and amusing setting.
We will then head to San Gimignano, one of the most beautiful villages in Tuscany. San Gimignano is known as the “city of towers”. This is one of the most popular hill towns in Tuscany, and one of my favorites as well. You will truly enjoy exploring this quintessential medieval town. I always encourage everyone to rise early to see the village before it comes alive with locals and tourists. It is like a fairytale setting. We will check into the Hotel Leon Bianco, which is located right in the middle of town on the Piazza Cisterna. After a short orientation walking tour of the village, you will have time for your own pursuits. (B) (L) Moderate
Day 7 - Magical San Gimignano - Friday, March 22, 2024
You have been going strong for several days, so today you will have time to relax and "breathe in the warmth of Tuscany". You will have the day to discover San Gimignano as you like. This is always a favorite stop in Tuscany, and you will find lots to enjoy. You may wish to visit inside their Duomo. There are beautiful frescos throughout the church that were used to teach the peasants who could not read the stories of the Bible. There is also a small chapel dedicated to Santa Fina, the patron Saint of San Gimignano, frescoed in 1475 by Ghirlandaio, one of Michelangelo’s teachers. You might also wish to climb the Torre Grande for the best views around. How about a visit to the Museum of Torture?
You may just enjoy shopping along the main streets. Beware; there are some of the best artisan shops in Tuscany right here. This has always been an important trading center. It was on the famous Via Francigena: the most traveled of the medieval roads that pilgrims traveled to Rome. From the 8th century, it was the route through France that linked Canterbury Cathedral in England and Rome, the heart of Christianity. Today you will find locally owned shops selling ceramics, soaps, leather goods, etc. You will also find a great selection of paintings and prints of the Tuscan area. You will find all sorts of enticements in San Gimignano. Also, not to be missed is the award-winning gelato at Gelateria Dondoli, right across from our hotel.
We will meet later for a delicious Tuscan meal under the stars at the restaurant La Terrazza. We will toast our trip with a glass of delicious Vernaccia, the local white wine, at our “dinner on the Piazza.” (B) (D)
Light to Moderate, your choice
Day 8 - A Famous Leaning Tower and Fabulous Florence - Saturday, March 23, 2024
We must say farewell to beautiful San Gimignano. We will begin our day with a stop to visit one of Italy's most famous sights, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Pisa sits near the coast on the Arno River. The Field of Miracles complex includes the leaning bell tower, a beautiful cathedral, and a very interesting cemetery. You will have time to enjoy everything. We will take some time for lunch together in Pisa.
After our visit to Pisa we will stop for a different type of visit at the American Military Cemetery located just outside of Florence. The compelling sight of endless rows of white marble crosses recalls the heroism of the young Americans who fought so valiantly to free Italy from the grips of fascism during World War II. The 1940's may seem very long ago, but during WWII this area was terribly ravaged by the fighting. I feel it is an honor and our duty to take time to pay our respects to these brave soldiers.
We then head to Florence or Firenze, the capital of Tuscany. We will jump right into the frenzy of Firenze with a short walking tour of the main sights located right outside the Hotel Pendini, which is located on Piazza Republica, the former ancient Roman Forum. Nearby is Piazza Duomo where you will find Florence's famous "red domed" Duomo and the 11th century Baptistery, with its famous bronze doors. The sculpture studded Piazza Signoria is always lively and the oldest bridge in Florence, the Ponte Vecchio is amazing. Florence is known as an outdoor museum and you will have time to enjoy all the sculpture, art, and architecture that surrounds you during your stay. You will then have the evening free to discover all that a Saturday night in Florence has to offer. (B) (L) Strenuous
Day 9 - Florence, Birthplace of the Renaissance- Sunday, March 24, 2024
Florence cannot really be described in words; it must be experienced. Florence is an outdoor museum, and you will enjoy just strolling through its medieval streets and taking in all the sculpture, art and architecture that surrounds you. We will start our day with a visit to the Accademia Museum to enjoy seeing Michelangelo’s masterpiece, DAVID, along with a few other treasures. Seeing the “real David” is truly an unforgettable experience.
Afterwards you will have time for your own pursuits. You might wish to visit one of the many wonderful museums. Shopping abounds in Florence, and it is a great place to find souvenirs and gifts. There are several leather markets. My favorite chocolate shop Rivoire is located right on the Piazza Signoria. You can find delicious treats and some unusual gifts. Their hot chocolate is thick and delicious. YUM!
Later we will enjoy a fun family style dinner together at lively Il Latini. (B) (D) Light
DAY 10 – Venice, La Serenissima – Monday, March 25, 2024
This morning we will head north through the Appenine mountains to discover Venice. Along the way we will pass through the area of the Po River valley, known as the "breadbasket of Italy". We will make a stop for lunch together along the way.
Then it is on to Venice, known as "La Serenissima", the most serene. Many first-time visitors are often stirred deeply by this almost fantasy world unlike anything they have ever seen before. Our private water taxi ride to the hotel will provide a wonderful view of Piazza San Marco and the Doge's Palace. We will be able to glide right up to the Hotel Ala's own landing on its little canal.
After some time to settle into the hotel, we will enjoy a walking tour through the back streets of Venice leading to St. Mark's Square. Napoleon referred to this square as "the most beautiful drawing room in Europe". St. Mark's Basilica and the Doge's Palace are both located on this beautiful square. Tonight, why not enjoy dinner at a restaurant along a quiet canal after that once in a lifetime Gondola ride. (B) (L) Light
Day 11 – The Pleasure of Getting Lost in Venice - Tuesday, March 26, 2024
We will dive right into the historic center of what was for centuries Europe's top superpower, with a visit inside St. Mark's Basilica with its museum located on St. Mark's Square. We will then walk over the Rialto Bridge to visit the Pescheria or fish market. The open-air stalls have the catch of the day, and you will discover fish that you have never seen before. Find eels, scallops, and crustaceans with five-inch antennae. This is the Venice that has existed for centuries.
The rest of the day is free for you to visit Venice's other famous sights or to get delightfully lost in the back lanes of this magical island. I am sure you will want to take that gondola ride sometime during your visit. Also, do not forget that Venice has some of the best and most unusual shopping in Italy. You may also wish to take a boat ride to one of the islands like Murano to see the glass blowing exhibits.
Tonight, will be your last night in Italy. We will meet for our farewell dinner along a lovely canal. We will toast the success of our adventures through Italy with a Bellini, a drink that was invented at Harry's Bar in Venice. (B) (D) Light
Day 12 – Arrivederci Italia! - Wednesday, March 27, 2024
Sadly, it is time to say "arrivederci". Parting will be such sweet sorrow, but I know you will take along wonderful memories of time spent discovering the wonders of Italy with new friends. (B)
(Included meals are designated each day with (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.)
If you have been "Dreaming of Italy" and dreaming of seeing it on an Italy With Friends tour, eccolo qui! Join me in Italy for 12 days next March, which is a great month for discovering Italy with less crowds and mild tempatures. We will begin our adventure in the Eternal City of Rome with its many ancient wonders. Spend the day in Vatican City with a visit to the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. Then immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the regions of Umbria and Tuscany with their delicious food and wine. Explore the grand hill town of Orivieto. Spend time in San Gimignano, Siena, Pisa, Chianti, and some hidden jewels along the way. Explore the Tuscan capital of Florence, birthplace of the Renaissance. Florence is a true art lover's dream and you will have time to enjoy much of it right outside your doorstep. Finally, glide along the amazing canals of Venice and dance in St. Mark's Square, a once in a lifetime experience. I am very excited to be offering the first IWF's tour since 2019. Join me in 2024 and start making those memories of a lifetime on the Italian Discovery tour!
