Northern Italy: Rome, Tuscany and Lake Como

Welcome to Rome, a city boasting nearly 3,000 years of distinguished history and culture. If you (like Monty Python) have ever wondered what the Romans did for us, here, you’ll find a city that has shaped our ideas on everything from religion to architecture. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, where you’ll meet your fellow travelers and guide, before enjoying your first meal together at a typical Roman restaurant.

This morning, join your fellow travelers on a sightseeing bike tour of Rome’s landmarks, which will take you from the majestic Trevi Fountain to the Pantheon Temple. Weaving through Campo de’ Fiori, the Jewish Quarter, Trajan’s Market and the Imperial Forum, you’ll wind up near the Colosseum in time for lunch at a traditional trattoria. This afternoon, you’ll uncover the iconic ruins of the Colosseum itself, and come face to face with the legacy of the Roman Empire.

Today, leave Rome behind as you head northwards by train to Siena. Nestled in the hills of Tuscany, this medieval city is rich with heritage. Enjoy lunch in a traditional restaurant, with a chance to sample some Sienese dishes, before spending the rest of the afternoon exploring the city at your own leisure. From the Duomo di Siena, with its intricate frescoes and illustrated library, to the shimmering Fonte Gaia, the cultural sights here are a marvel to explore. In the afternoon, check into your new hotel: an agriturismo palazzo in the Tuscan hills. The rest of the day is yours to relax in your beautiful surroundings.

Catch a transfer to San Gimignano this morning, a small hilltop town surrounded by the Tuscan countryside. Here, take a walking tour of its vineyards and wine cellar, gaining insight into local methods of production and winemaking traditions. Enjoy a traditional Tuscan lunch followed by an exclusive wine tasting, before making your way to the Renaissance city of Florence. Find your bearings on an introductory walking tour, weaving through Piazza della Signoria with its host of classical sculptures (Medusa and Hercules feature, among others), past the Uffizi Gallery and over the iconic Ponte Vecchio, lined with goldsmiths dating back to the 16th century. You’ll also have the chance to sample local delicacies, from artisanal gelato to truffles and cheeses – buon appetito. 

Enjoy a free morning to explore Florence at your own leisure, from its world-class museums to its sumptuous Renaissance churches. Then, this afternoon, make your way to Pisa for a short stopover (with just enough time to perfect your Leaning Tower pose), before arriving in Porto Venere on the Ligurian coast. Located just south of Cinque Terre, this charming fishing village boasts open sea views, multicolored houses and crumbling ruins. Spend the rest of the evening exploring this UNESCO-status village at your own pace.

Today will see you hike the coastline of Cinque Terre (which translates to ‘Five Lands’). This UNESCO World Heritage Site is comprised of five fishing villages teetering over rugged cliffs, connected to one another by twisting coastal paths. You’ll follow the Sentiero Azzurro (the most famous and accessible pathway), an old mule trail running through all five villages. With the sparkling Italian Riviera expanding to the horizon, you’ll see why this trail is called the ‘Blue Path’. The afternoon is then yours to explore the Italian Riviera at your leisure.

This morning, catch a transfer to Lake Como in the foothills of the Alps. Take some time to explore your new surroundings at leisure; the natural beauty of Lombardy is sure to enchant you. Then, after a light lunch, you’ll venture out on the lake on a self-driven motorboat, with mountain views unfolding around you. Then, the evening is yours to relax. Head out to find dinner with your fellow travelers, and meander through the picturesque streets of Como gelato in hand.

Arrivederci, Lake Como – you’re onto Milan. Your first introduction to this world-famous city will be on a food tour through its elegant streets. From aged meats and cheeses to traditional family dishes (melanzane parmigiana, we’re looking at you), this is your opportunity to indulge before your Italian adventure comes to an end. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Milan at your own leisure (or slipping into a post-food slumber at your hotel), before gathering with your group for a farewell feast at a stylish Milanese restaurant.

It’s now over to you to make your own way to your next destination. Interested in extending your European adventure? Head across the border on our eight-day France adventure, which will see you journey from Paris to Nice.