Italy Explorer
Italy Explorer
Italy Explorer
16 Days Starting and ending in Rome
Visiting: Rome, Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre, Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, Alberobello, Taormina, Syracuse, Palermo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
ITX
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 51
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Explore must-see destinations on this Italy Explorer tour, including Rome, Venice, Florence, Pompeii, and more! Immerse yourself in the beauty of Cinque Terre, capture iconic landmarks like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and explore the stunning island of Sicily. Experience the best of Italy, from its ancient cities and historical monuments to its world-renowned art, delicious food, and rich culture.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Of Tour In Rome
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Rome, the Eternal City! This morning, meet your tour leader at the hotel before heading into the city. Explore iconic sites showcasing Rome's rich history, from ancient Roman architecture to Renaissance masterpieces. Tonight, taste authentic Italian cuisine during an included welcome dinner at a local restaurant with the tour group. Afterward, join a guided walking tour led by a local expert to delve deeper into Rome's fascinating past and cultural heritage.
Discover Rome on a guided walking tour
Enjoy a welcome dinner in Rome
Day 2: Rome - Orvieto - Venice
Location: Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave the capital behind and drive through the picturesque Umbria region to the captivating hilltop town of Orvieto. Perched atop a sheer volcanic rock, take a funicular to the top to enjoy free time exploring this quaint city's historic centre. Discover landmarks like the 14th-century Cathedral, Papal Residence, and Albornoz Fortress. Later, travel on to Venice! Enjoy a free evening and unwind at the hotel or opt for a twilight water taxi cruise along the enchanting canals to witness Venice's twinkling lights.
Take a funicular ride to historic Orvieto
Day 3: Venice: Free Day
Location: Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day in Venice to experience the magic of this floating city as you wish! The quintessential experience of a gondola ride is highly recommended and can be easily arranged by your tour leader. Venture out to Murano and Burano on an optional excursion if you wish to explore the lagoon further. These islands are renowned for their glass-blowing and lace-making crafts, as well as their picturesque multicoloured houses. Alternatively, on a sunny day, unwind on the sandy beaches of Jesolo or Lido. The choice is yours!
Experience the magic of Venice
Day 4: Lake Garda - Florence - Tuscany
Location: Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a journey to Florence and the stunning region of Tuscany today with a stop at the breathtaking Lake Garda, Italy's largest lake. Witness the destination that has inspired artists of all persuasions for centuries before continuing to Florence. Upon arrival in Florence, join a local guide and explore the city's iconic sights and landmarks. Marvel at the Renaissance artwork and Roman remnants that adorn the city, reflecting its cultural and political significance during that era. Next, visit Leonardo Leather for a leather-making demonstration. End the day off with an included dinner at a local restaurant.
Stop at Lake Garda; Italy’s biggest lake
Explore Florence; the ‘Jewel of the Renaissance’
Learn about the craft of Italian leather-making
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Florence
Day 5: Cinque Terre - Pisa - Tuscany
Location: Cinque Terre
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, drive north to La Spezia in the Liguria region. This is the gateway to Cinque Terre, a cluster of five charming fishing villages nestled along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Adorned with colourful houses, these villages are connected by scenic hiking trails and a railway, offering car-free exploration and enhancing the experience of their quaint charm. Later today, return to Tuscany, making a stop en route to admire the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa. A must-see attraction in Italy, seize this opportunity to capture memorable photos of this historic landmark and explore its surrounding cathedral and baptistery grounds.
Explore the colourful villages of Cinque Terre
See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
Day 6: San Gimignano - Siena - Rome
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, journey through the serene countryside of Tuscany, where rolling hills are decorated with Tuscan farmhouses, vineyards, and olive groves. The first stop is the enchanting walled town of San Gimignano, known as the 'Town of Fine Towers' which is home to remarkable Romanesque and Gothic architecture, along with 14 impeccably-preserved medieval tower houses. Next, continue to Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for the thrilling Palio horse race. Savour the flavours of local Italian wines before heading back to Rome, where the day concludes with an included dinner.
Visit the gorgeous hill town of San Gimignano
Discover Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Day 7: Rome: Free Day
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Rome at your own pace today, soaking in the essence of this historic city. Wander the streets, treat yourself to a day of shopping, and sample an array of local delicacies. Consider opting for an excursion to the ancient Colosseum and Roman Forum, led by a knowledgeable local guide who will immerse you in the world of gladiators. Alternatively, venture to Vatican City on your own, the world's smallest country and the seat of the Pope. Explore the Vatican museums, marvel at artistic masterpieces, and behold Michelangelo's breathtaking frescoes in the Sistine Chapel. Whether you choose to delve into Rome's ancient history or explore the Vatican's treasures, this free day promises unforgettable experiences and lasting memories in the "Eternal City".
Day 8: Rome - Pompeii - Amalfi Coast
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Lunch
Leaving Rome, the tour heads to the breathtaking Amalfi Coast region, with captivating stops along the way. Pause to behold the majestic Mount Vesuvius and delve into the ancient ruins of Pompeii, frozen in time since the catastrophic eruption of 79 AD. Experience a captivating guided tour, offering fascinating insights into life during the Roman Empire, before indulging in an included lunch. As the afternoon unfolds, settle into your accommodation for a two-night stay in the enchanting Amalfi Coast. Tonight, join the Evening in Amalfi optional excursion to explore this charming town and taste the region’s delicious cuisine. Be sure to raise a toast with the region's famous limoncello liqueur, marking the end of an exciting day.
See Mount Vesuvius and explore the ruins of Pompeii
Day 9: Amalfi Coast: Free Day
Location: Pompeii
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Make the most out of a free day in the Amalfi Coast today! Bask in the beauty of its stunning coastline, whether lounging on the sun-drenched beaches or wandering through the charming and vibrant nearby towns. Alternatively, join the optional excursion to the renowned Isle of Capri, where an orientation tour awaits. Explore its rugged coastline, ancient Roman ruins, and chic piazzas at your leisure. Don't miss the highlight of the day trip — a cruise around the island, offering mesmerising views of its crystal-clear waters and enchanting grottos. Embrace the day's adventures, soaking in the essence of this idyllic coastal paradise!
Day 10: Amalfi Coast - Matera - Alberobello
Location: Amalfi Coast
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's journey takes you southeast to explore the enchanting southern Italian region of Apulia, with a stop along the way in the ancient cave city of Matera. Known as "la Città Sotterranea" (the Subterranean City), Matera is famed for its extensive cave-dwelling districts known as the 'Sassi'. Admire this unique UNESCO World Heritage site before continuing your adventure to Alberobello. Here, enjoy a walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide, discovering the region's iconic 'Trulli' houses. These charming 14th-century whitewashed stone huts, with their distinctive conical roofs, are specific to the Itria Valley. This evening, enjoy free time to further explore Alberobello, with visits to the Trullo Church of St. Anthony and the captivating Trulli Museum as options.
Visit Matera; an ancient cave city
Explore Alberobello; famous for its conical houses
Day 11: Alberobello - Taormina
Location: Alberobello
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, take a coastal drive along the Ionian Sea before leaving the mainland. Then, a brief ferry ride will transport you to the captivating island of Sicily, home to the majestic Mount Etna. Prepare to be mesmerised by breathtaking vistas as you journey toward Taormina. Upon arrival, set off on an orientation walk of this picturesque hilltop town with your tour leader. Gain insights into the town’s rich history and take note of top attractions to explore further on the upcoming free day, like the historic Porta Catania and the tranquil Villa Comunale. This evening, indulge in your first taste of Sicilian cuisine with an included dinner at the beachside hotel.
Catch a scenic ferry from mainland Italy to Sicily
Discover Taormina; a hilltop town in Sicily
Enjoy dinner at a beachside hotel in Taormina
Day 12: Taormina: Free Day
Location: Taormina
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today offers a blissful free day to unwind on the stunning beaches of Sicily or explore the island's charming towns. Taormina is a popular summer destination known for its medieval churches, castle, and Greek amphitheatre. Two optional excursions are also available. Ascend the majestic Mount Etna by funicular, Europe's tallest and most active volcano, and explore the volcanic landscape. Then, enjoy a delicious lunch featuring local wine and produce grown in volcanic soil at a nearby Enoteca. Why not end the day on a high note with a sunset swim back in Taormina?
Day 13: Taormina - Syracuse - Agrigento
Location: Taormina
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the heart of Sicily, stopping to explore the enchanting city of Syracuse. Founded by a Greek colony in 734 BC, Syracuse boasts a UNESCO-listed historical centre and beautiful Baroque buildings. This afternoon, prepare to be awestruck by the "Valle dei Templi" (Valley of the Temples) during a guided tour. This archaeological wonder ranks among the world's most outstanding examples of Magna Graecia art and architecture. Afterward, settle into tonight's accommodation in Agrigento.
Visit Syracuse; a historic Sicilian city
Explore the Valley of the Temples
Day 14: Agrigento - Cefalù - Palermo
Location: Syracuse
Meals Included: Dinner
Enjoy a scenic drive through central Sicily to the charming town of Cefalù. Upon arrival, set off on an orientation tour, followed by free time for lunch. With some of Italy's finest beaches at your fingertips, seize the opportunity to indulge in a seaside meal, soaking in the coastal ambiance. In the early afternoon, journey onwards to Palermo, where a captivating walking tour awaits to unveil the city's highlights. Founded over 2,700 years ago by the Phoenicians, Palermo enchants visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, architectural splendours, and delectable cuisine. Explore top sights such as Piazza Indipendenza, Porta Nuova (The New Gate), and the majestic Cathedral of Palermo, immersing yourself in the timeless allure of this ancient city.
Visit Cefalù; home to Italy’s finest beaches
See the sights on a walking tour of Palermo
Day 15: Palermo: Free Day
Location: Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Take advantage of this free day to delve deeper into the wonders of Sicily's capital, Palermo. With a history shaped by various rulers, including the Greeks, Romans, and Normans, Palermo is a captivating melting pot of cultures and architectural styles. Explore its ancient relics, immerse yourself in Italian history, and savour its rich culture, and delectable cuisine. Revisit yesterday's tour highlights, wander through the historic old town, and peruse art galleries showcasing local talent. Alternatively, opt for today's optional excursion to explore some of the lesser-known architectural highlights of this captivating city. This evening, the group will take an overnight ferry journey back to the Italian mainland.
Day 16: End Of Tour In Rome
Location: Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast
This afternoon, the ferry docks in Naples, where the journey continues by coach back to Rome. As the coach arrives in Rome this afternoon, it marks the end of the 16-day Italian adventure, filled with unforgettable experiences and cherished memories. Please note that the ferry times may differ throughout the year and take this into account when booking your outbound flight. With hearts full of gratitude and fond farewells, the tour comes to an end.Arrivederci!
What's Included
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Accommodation
14 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
1 night's accommodation in twin share cabin on ferry with private bathrooms
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room/cabin (subject to availability) -
Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Overnight ferry from Palermo to Naples
Any public transport used as part of the tour days (excludes free days) -
Meals
15 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 6 Dinners*Vegetarian options available for all meals on request
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Tour Leader
Fully guided tour with experienced tour leader
Tour leader will accompany group throughout and manage all logistical details
What's Not Included
International flightsTravel to the start point and from the end point is not included. We recommend using Skyscanner to find the best deals on international flights.Travel insuranceFor a relatively small price, travel insurance provides you with peace of mind so that you can enjoy your tour without any worries.
All passengers travelling on an Expat Explore tour are required to have valid travel insurance cover and you are responsible for arranging your own insurance.
Mode of Transport
Modern air-conditioned coach with reclining seats and toilet onboard
Overnight ferry from Palermo to Naples
Any public transport used as part of the tour days (excludes free days)
Accommodation
14 nights in 2, 3 & 4* hotel accommodation in twin rooms with private bathrooms
1 night's accommodation in twin share cabin on ferry with private bathrooms
Single travellers have the option to pay a single supplement to ensure a private room/cabin (subject to availability)
Traveller Comfort - *COACH* tours
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
For more information regarding traveller fitness please see our Terms and Conditions.
Health and Fitness
We welcome all travellers on our tours but we would like to ensure that you are as comfortable as possible. In light of this, please ensure that you are happy with the below information and level of fitness required.
Expat Explore tries to be as accommodating as possible, however, our tours are unfortunately not designed for people travelling with wheelchairs or severe mobility issues.
Our tours are fast paced because they are designed for you to see the most a destination has to offer. We also want to ensure that you explore as much as possible, which may require long periods without stops on the coach as we drive to a new destination.
We offer walking tours in most cities (up to 3 hours), and a wheelchair is not always a practical option as there are often cobbled streets and stairs on these tours.
For travellers in wheelchairs, you will only be able to store your wheelchair under the coach with the other luggage. Thus, on the long drives between cities you will not necessarily have access to your wheelchair if we make a quick bathroom stop along the way. Please note that travelling with a wheelchair could prove difficult as our coaches don't have wheelchair lifts, as such you will need to be able to board and alight the coach on your own.
With regards to our accommodation, not all hotels have lifts and this means potentially having to carry bags up and down stairs.
Experiences
Discover Rome on a guided walking tour
Enjoy a welcome dinner in Rome
Take a funicular ride to historic Orvieto
Experience the magic of Venice
Stop at Lake Garda; Italy’s biggest lake
Explore Florence; the ‘Jewel of the Renaissance’
Learn about the craft of Italian leather-making
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Florence
Explore the colourful villages of Cinque Terre
See the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
Visit the gorgeous hill town of San Gimignano
Discover Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
See Mount Vesuvius and explore the ruins of Pompeii
Visit Matera; an ancient cave city
Explore Alberobello; famous for its conical houses
Catch a scenic ferry from mainland Italy to Sicily
Discover Taormina; a hilltop town in Sicily
Enjoy dinner at a beachside hotel in Taormina
Visit Syracuse; a historic Sicilian city
Explore the Valley of the Temples
Visit Cefalù; home to Italy’s finest beaches
See the sights on a walking tour of Palermo
Check out our Q&As
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
All our tours are conducted in English.
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Is there any free time to explore places during the tour?
Yes
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
All of the hotels on this tour offer Wi-Fi, which is available free of charge as part of your Expat Explore tour.
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children, so we set a minimum age limit of 10 years old.
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What is the maximum group size?
It depends on how many other people book! There could be up to 51 other passengers, so you will have the opportunity to make lots of friends!
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
Yes, Full air-conditioning
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
We are committed to curating excellent travel experiences and to do so we need all of our travelers to feel safe.
In order to ensure the peace of mind and safety of our travelers and staff on board the coach, we are still requesting that all travellers, regardless of their vaccination status, produce a negative Covid test. This test can be a PCR test -
Are all entrance fees included in the price?
No, entrance fees are not included.
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Are airport transfers included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting point for the first day of your tour. Please see the meeting point information for details on how to reach the meeting point.
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Will I know the names and details of all the accommodation before I depart?
A full list of confirmed accommodation names and addresses for your particular departure will be emailed to you around 1 week before the tour starts.
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Due to weight and space limitations, you are allowed to bring one main piece of luggage weighing no more than 20kg, and one small soft bag for hand luggage weighing a maximum of 7kg. On all tours, you will have to carry your own luggage (e.g. into hotels and up to your room if hotels don’t have elevators). Please bear this in mind when you are deciding what to pack
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Do you require a visa for this holiday?
Certain nationalities may require a visa(s) for this tour.
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Euro
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Are flights included in this tour?
No, you will need to make your own arrangements to get to the meeting destination for the first day of your tour. Make sure you keep departure times and possible delays in mind when booking flights.
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What is the tipping policy?
Whilst we fully understand that some nationalities are not accustomed to tipping, this is a normal part of the culture in many of the countries we visit. Tipping has become an increasingly accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants, bars and taxis worldwide.Expat Explore crew members
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
We have searched and invested in excellent accommodation options, either located in cities or well placed with public transport connections. Clean linen, towels is always included. Toiletries (shampoo, shower gel etc) and hair dryers are not always included, so you may wish to bring these with you. Accommodation is provided in twin share en-suite rooms. We use a mix of mostly 2, 3 & 4-star hotels.
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Is there a supplement for solo travellers?
There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our customer services team. Please note that the room provided may be a single room with a single bed.
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Are all the relevant entry visa’s included in the price of the tour?
No, visas are each traveler’s personal responsibility, and we recommend that plenty of time is allowed for visas to be applied for. When applying for your visa, please ensure that the proper research is carried out before you apply, and that you deal directly with the embassies or certified agents with regard to acquiring correct and timely information. We cannot take responsibility for customers
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
All travellers are required to carry their own bags, get on and off the coach, and use public transport. Our city walking tours can last up to 3 hours and certain places involve walking up and down lots of steps. We want you to enjoy your tour, so read through the itinerary thoroughly and make your own conclusions as to whether you feel that you are fit and healthy enough.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
If you are travelling alone there is no compulsory charge - you will share a twin room with another passenger of the same gender. There is an optional single supplement/private room upgrade available for single travellers who wish to have a private room. This can be added at the time of booking or by contacting our team.
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Children on tour?
Our tours are not suitable for young children which is why we have a minimum age limit of 10 years old. However, at the discretion of Expat Explore we may consider younger children on certain tours if they meet certain criteria and a request is received in writing via email. Minors (between 10 and 18 years of age) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who accepts full responsibility for them. Unaccompanied minors will not be accepted on tour. Expat Explore reserves the right to decline any booking at our discretion. Any minor (between 10 and 18 years of age) is priced the same as an adult.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
The health and safety of our travellers and employees are our top priority. Which means, when you travel with us, our enhanced hygiene protocols will ensure you do so in a safe and responsible way - ask for details of current policies.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 2005
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
At Expat Explore we value responsible travel and are committed to exploring the world consciously and kindly. We are proud to make responsible travel possible with a number of our sustainable travel practices!
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Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?
Relate is a South African based not-for-profit organisation that Expat Explore supports. The group aims to help those less fortunate create better lives for themselves through a variety of fundraising initiatives. On our South Africa tours, each passenger will receive an Expat Explore branded Relate bracelet. We donate the cost of these bracelets to our chosen Relate charity: the Nelson Mandela Sc
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Free Date Changes
Expat Explore Travel allows you to make 5 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 91 days before the start of the tour.
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Low Deposit
Expat Explore Travel requires a minimum deposit of 10% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of expat explore travel charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 44 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.