Insight Vacations
Best of Italy - Classic Group, Winter
Best Of Italy – Classic Group, Winter
Explore the best of Italy on this 11-day guided tour. In Rome, marvel at the treasures around every corner and learn about its three thousand years of history. As your travels continue along the Bay of Naples, stop on the slopes of Mount Vesuvius for lunch at a local farm still growing traditional produce unique to the region. In Florence, learn the secrets of leather making from a local leatherworker. Fall in love with Venice as you see churches and palaces from a private boat, and cruise its canals on a romantic gondola ride. Sail to Capri, where craggy mountains cascade into the Tyrrhenian Sea; a Local Expert will help you navigate its narrow alleys. Before you say arrivederci to Italy, enjoy one last experience: a private opera during a four-course meal that features local wine.
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner (D)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Florence: Take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce and immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita of Florence while you enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local cafe.
- Florence: Stand beside Michelangelo’s monumental statue, ‘David’, in the Accademia Gallery, and admire the exquisite technique and absorbing history behind the world’s most famous sculpture.
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.
Authentic Dining
- Rome: Savor dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio’s typical flavors.
- Florence: Experience local Florentine flavors while relaxing over dinner with wine.
- Rome: Enjoy a Celebration Dinner of delicious Italian cuisine and wine, accompanied by the rich tremolo of some of Italy’s best loved songs.
Insight Choice
- Florence: Take a stroll with your Travel Director to Piazza Santa Croce and immerse yourself in the essence of la dolce vita of Florence while you enjoy a typical Italian treat in a local cafe.
- Florence: Stand beside Michelangelo’s monumental statue, ‘David’, in the Accademia Gallery, and admire the exquisite technique and absorbing history behind the world’s most famous sculpture.
Insight Experiences
- Vatican City: Visit the Vatican Museums, witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and see St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world’s best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini’s first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
Make Travel Matter
- Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop’s master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
- Vesuvius National Park: Visit Casa Barone, a small family-run farm on the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius and one of the world’s only producers of Piennolo tomatoes. Learn about their commitment to sustainability and taste the flavors of this special tomato during your Farm-to-Table lunch. Casa Barone cultivates the endangered endemic food species of Piennolo tomato as well as other traditional elements of the classic Vesuvian Countryside, using cultivation methods with low environmental impact. Through their production the farm prevents the local biodiversity from disappearing. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Top Rated Highlights
- Rome: Discover ancient treasures of Rome. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, where Ancient Roman political life and law courts mingled with open-air markets and shops.
- Florence: See the historic neighborhood of the Santa Croce Basilica and witness local craftspersons at work during a gold and leatherwork demonstration.
- Florence: Enjoy a stroll through Renaissance Florence and admire the medieval buildings that gave birth to this new style of architecture.
- Pisa: During your orientation, your Travel Director will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, and the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th-century cathedral – the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
- Venice: Join your Travel Director for an introduction to Venice, exploring its canals, lively squares, and historic landmarks. Discover the city’s unique charm as you navigate its maze of streets and take in iconic sights like St Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge.
- Venice: Glide through Venice’s canals on an iconic gondola ride, passing beneath historic bridges and past elegant palaces. Soak up the city’s romantic atmosphere as your gondolier navigates the tranquil waterways, offering a unique perspective of this timeless floating city.
- Assisi: See St. Mary of the Angels Church and join your Local Expert to walk through the cobbled streets and beautifully preserved medieval laneways of this quaint town.
- Assisi: With a Local Expert, find out why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of Europe.
- Capri: Cruise by jetfoil to this famous isle through beautiful blue Mediterranean waters.
- Capri: Explore Capri town with your Local Expert and see the whitewashed houses, winding alleyways, small cafes, fashionable boutiques and artisans studios.
- Pompeii: Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the first century.
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.
| Day 1 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 2 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 3 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 4 |
Florence (Firenze) is a compact city, but densely packed with spectacular art and architecture everywhere you look. The city center itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Birthplace of the Renaissance as well as Italy's fashion industry, Florence is imbued with an air of history and sophistication. Visitors are sure to be enchanted with the Florentine way of life, from the sensational Tuscan cuisine to the Michelangelo masterpieces. Art and food lovers will find much to embrace here. Looming over Florence is the Duomo, a red terracotta dome that is part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Bellissima! |
| Day 5 |
Pisa, Italy, is more than just its world-famous Leaning Tower; it's a city where history, art, and culture intersect to create a fascinating experience for visitors. The Leaning Tower, part of the Piazza dei Miracoli or Square of Miracles, is an architectural wonder that draws millions each year. Built as a bell tower for the adjacent Pisa Cathedral, its unintended tilt has become a global icon. Climbing its 294 steps to the top rewards you with sweeping views of the city and the Tuscan landscape beyond. Nearby, the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the Baptistery—the largest in Italy—are masterpieces of medieval architecture that shouldn't be missed. Pisa's charm extends beyond its famous piazza. Wander through the Borgo Stretto, a historic street lined with arcades, boutique shops, and cafes that offer a taste of local life. Here, you can explore the ancient streets where Galileo Galilei, Pisa’s most famous son, once walked. His birthplace, a modest house, is now a museum that pays homage to his revolutionary contributions to science. Pisa is also home to the University of Pisa, founded in 1343 and one of the oldest in the world, which infuses the city with a vibrant and youthful energy. The city's Arno River offers a different perspective of Pisa's beauty. Stroll along the Lungarni, the riverbanks lined with Renaissance palaces, quaint cafes, and historical churches, including the Gothic marvel, Santa Maria della Spina. For art enthusiasts, the Museo Nazionale di San Matteo houses an impressive collection of medieval art, including works from Pisa's own school of painting, offering a deep dive into the region’s artistic heritage. Fun fact: The Leaning Tower of Pisa began tilting during its construction in the 12th century due to unstable subsoil. Efforts to stabilize the tower over the centuries have been largely successful, and engineers now believe it will stand for at least another 200 years. Interestingly, the tower's lean has given it an unexpected advantage—it survived at least four major earthquakes in the region, as its tilt and the soft soil allow it to absorb seismic shocks better than a perfectly vertical structure would. |
| Day 6 |
Roads? Where you're going you don't need roads... but don't rule out a romantic gondola ride or a water taxi. Welcome to Venice, with its network of canals, rich history and composition of over 100 small islands in the Adriatic Sea.
One of the most popular features of this Northern Italy capital is the Grand Canal, once a major center of the Renaissance. Be sure to see the central square Piazza San Marco, where all can marvel at Byzantine mosaics, the Campanile bell and St. Mark’s Basilica. Fine art, stunning architecture, white limestone bridges, moving about via watercraft... Venice is a singular experience and an astonishing masterpiece of civilization. Summer is the busiest time to visit, so plan accordingly. If you're looking for an unforgettable costume party, visit during Venice Carnival from the end of February to the beginning of March. |
| Day 7 |
Assisi, Italy, is a city where history and spirituality intertwine, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and awe-inspiring. Perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio in the Umbria region, Assisi is best known as the birthplace of St. Francis, one of the most beloved saints in Christianity. The city is a pilgrimage site for those seeking to walk in the footsteps of St. Francis, with the majestic Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi standing as a testament to his enduring legacy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is adorned with breathtaking frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of the saint and the artistic achievements of the medieval period. Beyond its religious significance, Assisi captivates with its medieval charm. The city’s narrow, cobbled streets wind through a landscape dotted with ancient stone buildings, flower-filled balconies, and peaceful piazzas. The Piazza del Comune, the city’s central square, is home to the Temple of Minerva, a remarkably preserved Roman temple that dates back to the 1st century BC. This juxtaposition of ancient Roman architecture with the city’s medieval and Renaissance structures creates a unique and enchanting atmosphere. Nature lovers will find Assisi equally appealing, as the city is surrounded by lush hills and olive groves that offer numerous hiking trails. The nearby Parco del Monte Subasio is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing stunning views of the Umbrian countryside and a peaceful retreat from the city’s historic center. For those interested in local cuisine, Assisi offers a taste of traditional Umbrian dishes, such as truffle pasta, wild boar, and Sagrantino wine, all of which can be savored in the town’s cozy trattorias. Assisi invites you to "Discover the Heart of Italy, Where History and Holiness Meet." Whether you are drawn by its spiritual heritage, its architectural beauty, or its natural surroundings, Assisi offers a deeply enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression on every visitor. |
| Day 8 |
Assisi, Italy, is a city where history and spirituality intertwine, creating an atmosphere that is both serene and awe-inspiring. Perched on the slopes of Mount Subasio in the Umbria region, Assisi is best known as the birthplace of St. Francis, one of the most beloved saints in Christianity. The city is a pilgrimage site for those seeking to walk in the footsteps of St. Francis, with the majestic Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi standing as a testament to his enduring legacy. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is adorned with breathtaking frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of the saint and the artistic achievements of the medieval period. Beyond its religious significance, Assisi captivates with its medieval charm. The city’s narrow, cobbled streets wind through a landscape dotted with ancient stone buildings, flower-filled balconies, and peaceful piazzas. The Piazza del Comune, the city’s central square, is home to the Temple of Minerva, a remarkably preserved Roman temple that dates back to the 1st century BC. This juxtaposition of ancient Roman architecture with the city’s medieval and Renaissance structures creates a unique and enchanting atmosphere. Nature lovers will find Assisi equally appealing, as the city is surrounded by lush hills and olive groves that offer numerous hiking trails. The nearby Parco del Monte Subasio is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, providing stunning views of the Umbrian countryside and a peaceful retreat from the city’s historic center. For those interested in local cuisine, Assisi offers a taste of traditional Umbrian dishes, such as truffle pasta, wild boar, and Sagrantino wine, all of which can be savored in the town’s cozy trattorias. Assisi invites you to "Discover the Heart of Italy, Where History and Holiness Meet." Whether you are drawn by its spiritual heritage, its architectural beauty, or its natural surroundings, Assisi offers a deeply enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression on every visitor. |
| Day 9 |
Capri, a jewel of the Tyrrhenian Sea, has long been a favorite retreat for emperors, artists, and writers. This enchanting island off Italy's Amalfi Coast captivates with its dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and timeless elegance. The most iconic sight on Capri is the Blue Grotto, a sea cave illuminated by a magical blue light created by sunlight passing through an underwater cavity. A boat tour through this ethereal natural wonder is an unforgettable experience that draws visitors from around the world. The charm of Capri extends beyond its natural beauty. The Piazzetta, often called "the world's living room," is the beating heart of the island where locals and tourists mingle over an espresso or an Aperol Spritz. Narrow lanes from the Piazzetta lead to designer boutiques, artisan shops, and local eateries, showcasing the island's blend of sophistication and authenticity. A stroll along Via Camerelle will take you past high-end fashion stores and picturesque cafés, while a hike to Villa Jovis, the former palace of Emperor Tiberius, offers a glimpse into the island’s imperial past. Capri's natural landscapes are equally alluring. The Gardens of Augustus, with their vibrant flowers and stunning vistas of the Faraglioni rock formations, provide a serene escape for nature lovers. For the more adventurous, the Sentiero dei Fortini trail along the western coast presents breathtaking views of the sea, rugged cliffs, and ancient forts. Alternatively, a chairlift ride to the top of Monte Solaro, the highest point on the island, offers a panoramic view that stretches from the Bay of Naples to the Sorrentine Peninsula. A fun fact about Capri is its enduring status as a muse for creativity. The island has inspired many, including French novelist André Gide and American author Norman Douglas, whose works captured the essence of Capri's idyllic yet mysterious allure. Visit between April and October to experience Capri in its sun-soaked glory, where every corner invites discovery and every view feels like a postcard come to life. |
| Day 10 |
Pompeii, Italy, is a mesmerizing time capsule that invites travelers to step back into the world of ancient Rome. Once a thriving city, Pompeii was abruptly buried under volcanic ash and pumice following the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. This tragic event preserved the city in remarkable detail, allowing visitors today to walk the cobbled streets and witness a snapshot of Roman life, from grand villas and bathhouses to bakeries and amphitheaters. Pompeii's archaeological park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a sprawling complex where tourists can explore fascinating sites like the Forum, the Temple of Apollo, and the House of the Faun, one of the largest and most opulent residences that still showcases stunning mosaics. A visit to Pompeii is incomplete without a tour of the Villa of the Mysteries, famed for its vividly preserved frescoes depicting enigmatic rituals possibly related to the cult of Dionysus. For a more intimate experience, wander through the Lupanar, Pompeii’s largest brothel, with its unique erotic frescoes that provide insights into the daily life of the city's inhabitants. The Baths of Pompeii, including the Forum Baths and the Stabian Baths, offer a glimpse into the sophisticated Roman bathing culture, complete with well-preserved mosaics and marble fixtures. What makes Pompeii truly extraordinary is the vivid sense of life and tragedy that permeates its ruins. The plaster casts of victims, frozen in their final moments, evoke a powerful emotional response and provide a hauntingly real connection to this ancient disaster. The Garden of the Fugitives, where many of these casts are displayed, is both a somber and compelling reminder of the eruption's suddenness and impact on the city. Fun fact: Did you know that Pompeii was only rediscovered in the 18th century? The site was lost for nearly 1,700 years under layers of ash and was accidentally found during the construction of a palace. Since then, continuous excavations have revealed more about the daily lives of ancient Romans, and Pompeii has become one of Italy's most visited tourist attractions. Visiting Pompeii offers a rare opportunity to connect with history on a deeply personal level and to witness one of the world's most remarkable archaeological wonders. |
| Day 11 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
11/05/26 - 11/26/26 |
Starting At $3,925 |
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|
12/19/26 - 12/29/26 |
Starting At $4,050 |
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|
12/26/26 - 01/05/27 |
Starting At $4,675 |
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|
02/25/27 - 03/07/27 |
Starting At $3,950 |
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|
03/04/27 - 03/18/27 |
Starting At $3,975 |
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|
03/25/27 - 04/04/27 |
Starting At $4,275 |
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|
03/27/27 - 04/06/27 |
Starting At $4,395 |
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Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change.
Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.
