Discover the Delights of Italy in 12 Days: Rome, Sorrento, Venice, Florence, Tuscany, Italian Lakes, Cinque Terre

Welcome to Rome! Upon your arrival in Italy's capital city in the morning, you will check into your hotel. Shortly after, you will meet your tour leader who will provide the group with an informative overview of the exciting itinerary ahead. The day will commence with a captivating guided walking tour, allowing you to marvel at the incredible blend of architectural wonders that span different historical eras. Prepare to witness the grandeur of Ancient Roman structures, the charm of medieval buildings, and the masterpieces of the Renaissance. Among the highlights of the tour are iconic landmarks such as the majestic Pantheon, the renowned Spanish Steps, and many more. During the stroll, we will make a delightful stop at the Trevi Fountain, where you will have the opportunity to partake in the age-old tradition of tossing a coin into the fountain, symbolizing your hopes for luck and the chance to revisit Rome in the future. In the evening, you will be treated to a delicious welcome dinner at a local restaurant, which is included as part of your itinerary.

Indulge in a day of absolute freedom in Rome, the captivating "Eternal City" of Italy! Take this opportunity to delve deeper into the city's prominent landmarks, indulge in shopping excursions, or simply immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of the bustling streets. Alternatively, you can choose to utilize this leisurely day by venturing to Vatican City, the world's smallest country and the seat of the Pope. Discover the awe-inspiring wonders of the renowned Sistine Chapel and the breathtaking Vatican Museums. If you prefer to remain in Rome, relish the freedom to explore at your own pace. Spend quality time delving into the depths of the city's iconic sights, or unwind and savor the local atmosphere at a charming café while engaging in a spot of shopping. The choice is yours to create an unforgettable day in Rome that suits your desires.

Leaving behind the captivating churches and basilicas of Assisi, we continue our journey toward the enchanting city of Venice. However, before reaching our destination, we have a remarkable stopover in San Marino, Europe's third-smallest state. Boasting the claim of being the oldest surviving sovereign state in the world, San Marino traces its roots back to the early 4th century, founded by Saint Marinus. Today, it has become a popular day-trip destination for visitors to the area. Perched atop a hill, San Marino offers breathtaking panoramic views of the picturesque countryside and the sparkling Adriatic Sea.

After immersing ourselves in the charm of San Marino, we proceed to our ultimate destination, Venice, where we will arrive in the early evening. The evening is yours to unwind and relax at the hotel or, if you desire, join our tour leader on an optional twilight water taxi cruise along the iconic Venetian canals. This enchanting experience allows you to immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of Venice as the city comes alive under the twilight sky, providing a truly memorable and unique perspective of this extraordinary destination.

This morning, we begin our exploration of Venice with an orientation walking tour through the heart of the city. Prepare to be enthralled as we visit renowned landmarks, including the iconic Rialto Bridge and the magnificent St. Mark's Square. Immerse yourself in the rich history and unique atmosphere of this captivating city.

The remainder of the day is yours to shape as you wish. No visit to Venice is complete without a traditional gondola ride, an experience that can be arranged by your knowledgeable tour leader. Allow yourself to be serenaded as you glide along the picturesque canals, savoring the romance and charm that Venice is famous for.

Additionally, we highly recommend embarking on an optional excursion to the captivating islands of Murano and Burano, located further out in the lagoon. These islands are renowned for their exquisite local crafts and the striking rows of vibrantly colored houses. Marvel at the skilled artisans at work and embrace the unique beauty of these enchanting locations.

As the afternoon unfolds, an optional food tour awaits, offering you the opportunity to tantalize your taste buds with delectable local treats while meandering through the captivating streets of Venice. Indulge in the culinary delights that this city has to offer and immerse yourself in its rich gastronomic culture.

For an ultimate Venice experience, why not consider partaking in all three optional excursions? This would allow you to craft a truly unforgettable itinerary, immersing yourself in the essence of Venice from various perspectives and creating cherished memories to last a lifetime.

Our first stop today takes us to the captivating city of Verona, often referred to as "fair Verona." Here, we have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Juliet's balcony, where the iconic love story between Romeo and Juliet unfolded in Shakespeare's timeless play. Verona, with its rich history dating back to Roman times, has been the backdrop for family feuds, dramatic tales, and passionate romance. As an unmissable stop on Italian tours, Verona has countless stories to share. During our orientation tour, keep an eye out for notable landmarks such as the remarkable 2,000-year-old arena and the ancient city gates, each carrying its own historical significance.

Later in the day, we make our way to the breathtaking Italian Lakes region, renowned for its stunning beauty that has inspired famous writers like DH Lawrence and Hemingway. Our destination is Sirmione, a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Garda. Take advantage of the free time provided to explore this enchanting town, discovering its unique charm and captivating landscapes. As the day draws to a close, we settle into our hotel for the evening, allowing us to rest and rejuvenate in preparation for the adventures that lie ahead.

Today, we bid farewell to the captivating Italian Lakes and set our sights on yet another breathtaking destination: Cinque Terre. Situated on the picturesque west coast of Italy, Cinque Terre comprises five charming and colorful Italian towns: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore. These towns are interconnected by a network of hiking trails and trains, offering a truly unique and enchanting way to explore this remarkable region. Whether you choose to embark on a scenic train ride or prefer to immerse yourself in the beauty on foot, Cinque Terre promises an unforgettable experience. Spend several hours here, embracing the charm of each town and soaking in the stunning coastal landscapes.

Next on our itinerary is a visit to the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Take the opportunity to capture some remarkable photos of this iconic Italian landmark, an architectural marvel that has captured the world's imagination. Let the whimsical tilt of the tower spark your creativity as you snap memorable shots.

As the day progresses, we make our way to the northern region of Tuscany, where we will settle into our accommodation for the night. Take this time to unwind, reflect on the day's adventures, and prepare for the delights that await us in the enchanting region of Northern Tuscany.

Get ready for an exhilarating day of Italian adventure! We embark on a journey to the magnificent city of Florence this morning. Upon arrival, we will be treated to a locally guided tour, immersing ourselves in the city's rich heritage of extraordinary Renaissance art and awe-inspiring architecture. Prepare to be captivated by the masterpieces that grace this cultural hub.

Afterward, we have the opportunity to visit a local Italian leather shop, where we can delve into the world of traditional leather crafting. Discover why Italian leather brands have enjoyed unrivaled success in the fashion industry for centuries and gain insights into this remarkable craft.

The afternoon grants us the freedom to explore Florence at our own pace. Wander through its historic streets, uncover hidden gems, and savor the vibrant atmosphere of this remarkable city.

For those seeking an even deeper immersion into Tuscan traditions, we offer the optional Taste of Tuscany excursion. Indulge in the local culinary delights and savor the authentic flavors of Tuscan cuisine through traditional recipes and culinary traditions.

Later in the day, we continue our journey to our hotel in Southern Tuscany. Upon arrival, we are treated to a complimentary wine tasting, allowing us to savor the renowned wines of the region. Following this delightful experience, the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure, whether it be relaxation or further exploration of the surrounding area.

This morning, we embark on a journey through one of the world's most picturesque countryside landscapes. As we travel, be prepared to be mesmerized by the enchanting Tuscan scenery, adorned with charming farmhouses, lush vineyards, and serene olive groves. Each sight along the way will evoke a sense of tranquility and admiration.

Our first stop takes us to the captivating walled hilltop town of San Gimignano. Known as the "Town of Fine Towers," it boasts exceptional Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with twelve well-preserved tower houses adorning its skyline. Take your time to explore this remarkable town, soaking in the medieval charm and immersing yourself in its rich history.

Next, we continue our journey to Siena, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its captivating beauty and cultural significance. Siena is famously known for the Palio horse race, a thrilling event held twice a year in the main piazza. Here, we have the opportunity to delight in a wine-tasting experience accompanied by delectable antipasto, allowing us to savor the flavors of the region while immersing ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere.

As the day draws to a close, we make our way back to Rome. To round off our journey together, we gather for a farewell dinner, creating cherished memories and reflecting on the incredible adventures we have shared. It is a fitting end to our tour, celebrating the beauty of Italy and the friendships formed along the way.

After an incredible 12-day journey through Italy, the time has come to bid farewell to your fellow travel companions and embark on your journey back home. The tour concludes with a satisfying breakfast this morning, allowing you to fuel up for the day ahead. As you depart, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences, breathtaking sights, and cherished memories you have gathered throughout your Italian adventure. Arrivederci, Italia!