zAmalfi Coast to Cinque Terre

You’ll be met upon arrival in Naples and escorted to the Grand Hotel La Favorita in the historic heart of Sorrento. An informal arrival briefing with our local host will answer any questions you have about your stay in this enchanting resort town. This evening’s Welcome Dinner features the fine cuisine and wine of L’Antica Trattoria, a delightful restaurant that has been serving visitors and city residents since 1930.  Meals D

Join your guide this morning aboard the hydrofoil to the magical Isle of Capri. Marvel at the iridescent waters of the Blue Grotto and then explore the town of Anacapri. Set on the rugged and rocky slopes of Mount Solaro, this charming town of 7,000 residents offers marvelous views and a chance to experience a quieter and more genuine side of life on this popular island. Return to Sorrento where you’ll have time to refresh before heading to Il Buco, where the chef will introduce you to the recipes and traditions of Neapolitan cuisine. After this fun cooking class, sit down to a congenial dinner here in this inviting restaurant.  Meals B+D

Today’s guided excursion takes you along one of the world’s most spectacular scenic drives. Enjoy sweeping views over the coastline and the Moorish architecture of Positano before continuing to Amalfi for a walking tour. Explore the colorful alleyways of this inviting town and admire the ornate mosaic façade of St. Andrew’s Cathedral, built in the 13th century. Stop in Ravello for lunch overlooking the Bay of Salerno and then tour the Villa Rufolo, built 800 years ago for the wealthy Rufolo Dynasty and surrounded by beautiful cascading gardens. Before departing Ravello, you’ll also visit the Cathedral; dedicated to Saint Pantaleone, the patron saint of Ravello, the simple white façade of this historic 11th-century church belies its wonderful interior. Back in Sorrento, your evening is at leisure to enjoy as you wish. Our local host will be happy to make recommendations for dinner.  Meals B+L

This morning you’ll explore the fabled ruins of Pompeii, the once wealthy port destroyed by the cataclysmic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Accompanied by our expert guide, you’ll delve into its ancient history, hear gripping accounts of its destruction and learn about its discovery in 1743 and the excavations which continue to this day. Then continue to Naples where you’ll tour the Archaeological Museum, highly regarded for its vast collection of artifacts from both Herculaneum and Pompeii. Savor local specialties like Neapolitan pizza and delicate Sfogliatella pastry before continuing to Rome where you’ll check in to the Rose Garden Palace Hotel, ideally located in the heart of the Eternal City just off the Via Veneto. Our local Roman host will be on hand to offer personal suggestions for dinner.  Meals B+L

Delve into the life of Rome’s ancient citizens as you explore the Forum with our expert Roman guide. This vast collection of ruins was once the heart of the Empire – a thriving district filled with temples, basilicas, government buildings and bustling public spaces. Inside the Colosseum, you’ll find it easy to imagine the roar of the 70,000 spectators who filled this stadium on its opening day 2,000 years ago. This evening, experience a genuine slice of Roman life when you dine in the home of a local family.  Meals B+D

Check out this morning after breakfast and visit the Vatican Museums, home to one of the world’s greatest collections of art and antiquity. Ascend the beautiful Spiral Staircase, marvel at the Gallery of the Tapestries and tour the famous Sistine Chapel with its fresco by Michelangelo. Continue with a guided visit of St. Peter’s Basilica. Begun in the 15th century, the world’s largest church was built over a span of more than 100 years by the greatest architects of the time.

After lunch in a typical Roman trattoria, we’ll depart the capital for a scenic journey through the pastoral Italian countryside into the rolling hills of Umbria. Tour one of the region’s historic vineyard and olive oil estates and delight in a tasting of their fine products. Then continue to Florence and check in to the Hotel Santa Maria Novella in the heart of this captivating city. Our resident host will be available to make personal recommendations for dinner and answer any questions you may have about your stay in Florence.  Meals B+L

This morning’s walking tour with our native-born Florentine expert reveals the Renaissance glory of this beloved city. Walk through the lovely Piazza della Signoria and marvel at the historic Duomo complex including the celebrated gilded bronze doors of the Baptistery and the spectacular dome designed by Brunelleschi. In the famed Accademia Gallery, you’ll see celebrated Renaissance masterpieces like Michelangelo’s David.

In the afternoon, continue to Cinque Terre where five villages are set amidst rocky grottoes and secluded beaches overlooking the blue waters of the Mediterranean. Check in to the wonderful Hotel Porto Roca, perched on a seaside cliff in the charming enclave of Monterosso. You’ll have time to refresh before dining at the hotel.  Meals B+D

Spend the day with our engaging guide and explore the charming villages and spectacular coastal scenery that comprise this very special region. Riding the local train and venturing out by boat, you’ll discover colorful and timeless villages like Manarola and Riomaggiore. Part of your touring will be on foot along the Via dell’Amore, a lovely path set between mountain and sea. This evening, you’ll sit down to another fine dinner at your hotel overlooking the Mediterranean.  Meals B+D

You’ll be escorted to the airport or rail station for your onward journey.  Meals B