Italian Roundabout and Sicilian Paradise (2025)

Jour 1

Welcome to Rome! Upon your arrival at the airport, we will be there to transfer you to your hotel. You will find all the details you need to meet your guide at the hotel on the information boards. In the late afternoon, we will provide a transfer to the Esquilino neighborhood, an excellent introduction to Rome with its grand basilicas and the Colosseum. Dinner will be included.

Jour 2

In the morning, we´ll begin with a panoramic tour that will introduce us to the “Eternal City.” This tour includes admission to the Imperial Forums, an impressive architectural complex of monumental buildings and squares that served as the center of political activity in ancient Rome. Afterward, we’ll go to St. Peter´s Basilica in the Vatican, where you´ll have free time. The afternoon will be at your leisure.

Jour 3

Free day. Today, we suggest an optional excursion to Naples, Capri, and Pompeii.

Jour 4

We’ll travel to Pisa, where we’ll take a train from the parking area to the monumental Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the famous Leaning Tower. You´ll have free time for lunch. Afterward, we’ll head to Santa Margherita Ligure, where we’ll take a boat to Portofino, one of the most exclusive destinations in Europe. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll along the waterfront and enjoy some leisure time. We’ll then continue to Genoa, a city whose downtown reflects its rich history as a powerful republic during the Middle Ages.Note: Occasionally, due to weather conditions, the boat to Portofino may not operate in winter. In such cases, additional free time will be provided in Santa Margherita. Alternatively, you can reach Portofino by public microbus (please keep in mind that the service can be limited, and there may be longer waiting times).

Jour 5

Today, we’ll discover one of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes: the Italian lakes nestled in the valleys of the Alps. We’ll travel to Lake Orta, where we’ll visit the medieval town of Orta San Giulio, known for its remarkably well-preserved architecture. Our visit includes a train ride to the center of this charming village and a boat trip to San Giulio Island, which is home to a monastery. Afterward, we’ll head to Milan, the main financial and economic hub of Italy. You’ll have free time to explore the downtown area, visit Milan´s renowned cathedral, and have lunch. We’ll then continue our journey through the Po Valley to Verona, where you’ll have free time for dinner.

Jour 6

In Verona, you’ll have free time to explore the city of Romeo and Juliet. We’ll then continue to Venice, with an expected arrival around noon. We’ll include a boat transfer to St. Mark’s Square, where a local guide will lead us on a walking tour through the city of canals. You’ll also have the opportunity to admire Murano glasswork. Enjoy free time for lunch and be sure to take a ride on one of the famous gondolas. We’ll be spending the night in the Mestre area or nearby.

Jour 7

After crossing the picturesque landscapes of the Apennines, we’ll arrive in Florence. Our first stop will be Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers a breathtaking view of the city. You´ll have free time for lunch. In the afternoon, we´ll include a guided tour of the city center with a local guide, seeing iconic sites like the Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, and Piazza della Signoria. This city is truly an open-air museum. Enjoy some additional free time to explore at your leisure.

Jour 8

We’ll travel to Siena, where we’ll have the chance to see the stunning Piazza del Campo and its beautiful cathedral. Next, we’ll head to Assisi for an included visit to the Basilica with a local guide or a Franciscan monk. Free time for lunch. Arrival in Rome in the evening.

Jour 9

At the time informed by the guide, we will make a transfer to the airport to catch a domestic flight included in your trip. On arrival at destination we will give you another hotel transfer. Your guide will contact you at the end of the afternoon or you can consult the information in your hotel reception. Note: remember that on domestic flights, the luggage normally allowed is one suitcase of up to 20 kg in the hold. Passengers must pay for all excess luggage directly to the airline.

Jour 10

We’ll leave Palermo and follow the scenic Tyrrhenian Sea coastline, taking in beautiful landscapes along the way. Our first stop will be Cefalù, a charming coastal town. Its Norman cathedral, renowned for its unique architecture and mosaics, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic center is a delightful mix of narrow streets, sea views, and commercial and tourist life. After some time for lunch, we’ll head inland to Castelbuono, a little picturesque mountain town that captures the tranquility of Sicily’s interior with its ancient walls, castle, and charming central streets. Next, we’ll return to the coast and visit Tindari, where the Sanctuary of Tindari stands atop a mountain, offering breathtaking views of the sea. This famous pilgrimage site is home to the Black Madonna. Nearby, you’ll find the ruins of an ancient Greek polis. Our journey will conclude in Milazzo, a lively port city overlooking the volcanic Aeolian Islands.

Jour 11

Prepare for a day full of excitement as we explore two islands in the Aeolian archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its ongoing volcanic activity. We’ll take a ferry to Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands and the most charming town in the archipelago, with its historic center, castle, and vibrant tourist life. After lunch and some leisure time to explore, we’ll board another ferry for a short 30-minute trip to Vulcano. Next, we’ll take a short ferry ride, less than 30 minutes, to Vulcano, where you’ll immediately notice the distinct smell of sulfur from the island’s active fumaroles. Vulcano is dominated by its crater and known for its unique hot water beaches. We highly recommend experiencing the sulfurous hot springs— the mud is said to be very beneficial for the skin. This is a one-of-a-kind experience you won’t want to miss. Afterward, we’ll take a ferry back to Milazzo (just over an hour’s journey) and continue to Taormina, arriving by the end of the day.Note: During the summer or on special dates, accommodation may be arranged in Messina instead of Taormina.

Jour 12

Nestled at the foot of Mount Etna, the beautiful city of Taormina was once described by Churchill as the most beautiful place on earth. You’ll have time to explore the vibrant old town, where the Greek theater is set against the breathtaking landscape. Afterward, we’ll continue our journey toward the center of the island. Our next stop will be Caltagirone, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its impressive Baroque architecture. You’ll get to ride a little tourist train (included), where you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and key landmarks. Caltagirone is also the ceramic capital of Sicily, as seen in its numerous shops, workshops, and iconic sites, including the famous 142-step staircase, each step uniquely decorated with colorful tiles. After lunch, we’ll visit the Villa Romana del Casale (admission included), another UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the Roman Empire, villas were symbols of agricultural wealth, and Villa del Casale is exceptional not only for its well-preserved 4th-century architecture but also for its stunning mosaics, which adorn almost every room, considered the finest in the Roman world. We’ll then cross the island’s mountainous interior and continue to Palermo, arriving by the end of the day.

Jour 13

Today, we’ll embark on a guided city tour of Palermo with a local expert. Highlights include the cathedral, famous for its blend of architectural styles and royal tombs (admission included), and the Palazzo dei Normanni, a former royal palace with fountains, markets, and gardens. We’ll also visit Monreale to see its cathedral (admission included), a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its breathtaking golden mosaics that adorn the entire interior. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure.Note: For smaller groups, the tour may be conducted as part of a regular excursion offered by local companies instead of a private tour.

Jour 14

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.