Country Roads of Southern Italy
Country Roads of Southern Italy
$3425
Country Roads of Southern Italy
9 Days Starting and ending in Rome
Visiting: Rome, Vatican, Alberobello, Lecce, Gallipoli, Matera, Grottole, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E821AZM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Indulge in Italy’s finest food and views during this 9-day guided tour. In Rome, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain during a walking tour with a Local Expert and visit the Vatican Museums. In Sorrento, settle into a luxurious resort and take in the views of Mount Vesuvius, which buried Pompeii in a sea of lava in 79 A.D. Indulge your curiosity from an insightful MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in the village of Grottole to viewing the Trulli of Alberobello UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To The Eternal City Of Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Dinner
2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a centre of celebration. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches. Relax and settle in before joining your Travel Director and getting to know your fellow travellers over a delicious dinner with wine.
Day 2: Vatican City And Rome With A Local
Location: Rome, Vatican
Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome
Accommodation Name: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces. Join a Local Expert for an in-depth experience bringing millennia of history to life. Journey from the Vatican City across the Tiber river to ancient Rome. See the incredible Circus Maximus. Admire the beautifully preserved Arch of Constantine and discover the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum on a guided visit. As you stroll with your Local Expert, imagine the gladiatorial battles and roaring spectators around the arena. Later, perhaps continue your exploration of Rome to see the Pantheon and the stunning piazzas and fountains of Rome.
Day 3: Alberobello
Location: Rome, Alberobello
Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The brilliant blue of the sky set against the white of the buildings of the southern Italian towns and villages will inspire the mind of any curious traveller. A photographer's paradise around every corner from Field Marigolds in early spring to date palm trees, figs and pomegranates with groves of olive trees for a picture perfect setting. Exploring the southern part of Italy is a chance to enter a world away from the throng of tourists and discover how Italians live and enjoy life. Rub shoulders with UNESCO World Heritage sites and friendly locals who will enchant you with their hospitality.
Day 4: The Trulli Of Alberobello
Location: Alberobello
Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Meals Included: Breakfast
Admire another of Italy's record number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a Local Expert. The Trulli of Alberobello are circular structures with conical roofs that are domed within, built from local limestone and stacked without using mortar. Get up close learning the insights behind these unique structures. Relax this afternoon with your time at leisure or take the opportunity to join an optional experience to explore more of the Puglian countryside and heritage. Later, deepen your discoveries joining an optional experience for a Masseria dinner.
Day 5: Discovering Lecce
Location: Alberobello, Lecce, Gallipoli, Alberobello
Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Meals Included: Breakfast
Italy will enchant the most curious of travellers. Enjoy a visit with your Local Expert to one of the most beautiful cities of southern Italy, Lecce. The town is often referred to as the Florence of the South due to its dazzling architectural, beautiful Baroque buildings and monuments dating back to Roman times. Amble along its spider's web of streets offering a kaleidoscope mix of long-range vistas and alluring glimpses. Next is the pretty seaside town of Gallipoli where you’ll view the Greek Fountain and medieval castle before making your way to a viewpoint looking out over the Ionian Sea.
Day 6: Journey South To Matera
Location: Matera, Grottole, Matera
Accommodation: MH Matera Hotel
Accommodation Name: MH Matera Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Visit Matera with a Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sassi — a labyrinth of cave dwellings, churches, staircases and arches, hewn out of the solid rock. You may recognise Matera as the biblical backdrop for the film ‘The Passion of the Christ.’ Continue to the small village of Grottole. Once a thriving community, it has lost most of its activity and population. Meet Andrea, a local striving to reignite the traditional way of living of the area. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience explore the historic old town to learn about the fascinating history of the village. Later, enjoy an aperitif with local snacks helping to preserve the culture.
Day 7: Pompeii And Sorrento
Location: Matera, Pompeii, Sorrento
Accommodation: Isabella, Sorrento
Accommodation Name: Isabella, Sorrento
Meals Included: Breakfast
Buried in A.D. 79 by the historic eruption of Mount Vesuvius, discover the archaeological site of Pompeii in the region of Campania. Walk with your Local Expert through the cobbled streets to see a city frozen in time. Venture on to the picturesque resort of Sorrento, perched upon the southern cliffs of the Bay of Naples and looking over to Mount Vesuvius.
Day 8: Capri, The Isle Of Dreams
Location: Sorrento, Capri, Sorrento
Accommodation: Isabella, Sorrento
Accommodation Name: Isabella, Sorrento
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The impossibly blue sea welcomes you to the sun-drenched island of Capri as you cruise by jetfoil. On arrival, meet your Local Expert for an orientation walk through the narrow alleyways. Explore Capri with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the immaculate Gardens of Augustus with a Local Expert and admire the views over the Faraglioni Rocks. Alternatively, enjoy a tasting of limoncello, Capri’s famous lemon liqueur.
Day 9: Depart Sorrento
Location: Sorrento, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, wave goodbye to your fellow travellers as you depart Sorrento on a coach transfer to Rome airport.
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 8 breakfasts and 4 dinners.
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Local Expert Guides
Enjoy guided tours with local experts in various locations including Capri, Alberobello, Matera, and Pompeii.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Tips at hotels and restaurants are included, so you don't have to worry about tipping.
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Luggage Handling
Your bags will be carried for you and delivered to your hotel door.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi on the coach and at hotels where available.
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your flights align with the itinerary start and end dates.
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Luxury Coach
Travel in comfort on Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board the coach for use throughout the day.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as exploring more of the Puglian countryside and heritage or a Masseria dinner are not included.
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Transfers Outside Scheduled Times
Transfers are not included if your flights are outside the scheduled times or if you have booked additional nights accommodation.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury aboard Insight's air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom, ensuring comfort and safety with physical distancing measures and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Accommodation
Experience comfort and style with stays at Room 007 Select in Rome, Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri in Alberobello, MH Matera Hotel, and Isabella in Sorrento, offering a blend of modern amenities and local charm.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 8 Breakfast (B)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Grottole: Meet Andrea for an aperitif and a tour of the village.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour of Southern Italy?
The tour includes unique experiences such as exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Trulli of Alberobello, visiting the Sassi cave dwellings in Matera, and participating in the Wonder Grottole Project. You will also have the opportunity to taste limoncello in Capri and enjoy a Farm-to-Table meal in Alberobello.
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How does the tour handle luggage and transportation?
The tour provides luggage handling services, ensuring your bags are carried for you and delivered to your hotel door. Transportation is provided by Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach, which offers double the standard legroom and onboard washroom facilities.
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What are some of the highlights of the visit to Capri?
In Capri, you will cruise by jetfoil to the island and have the option to visit the Gardens of Augustus with a Local Expert to admire views of the Faraglioni rocks or enjoy a tasting of the famous lemon liqueur, limoncello.
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 8 breakfasts and 4 dinners. One of the highlights is a freshly prepared Farm-to-Table meal in Alberobello, featuring local recipes and flavors.
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Are there any special projects or initiatives included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes participation in the Wonder Grottole Project, a regeneration initiative aimed at rehabilitating the abandoned historic center of Grottole and preserving village life.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions