Rome is one of the most breath-taking cities in Europe, bursting with ancient remains. Rome isn’t the only place you should visit for a taste of ancient civilization, as down south in the region of Campania, the town of Pompeii is waiting for you with its remains, preserved by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Campania is also home to a variety of towns along the azure Amalfi Coast, where you can see breathtaking panoramas of plunging cliffs and views out to the Tyrrhenian Sea. From the Isle of Capri to the sun-kissed lemon groves of Amalfi, there’s something for everyone in this diverse region!
Benvenuti a Roma! After your arrival at the airport, make your own way to your hotel and then enjoy your first day in the city at your own leisure. Overnight in Rome.
In the morning, meet your guide at the Vatican and join a small group to visit the Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel. An expert guide will be your docent as you pass through the vast Vatican collection. This Vatican tour will focus on the must-see and famous masterpieces of the Vatican, including the Sistine Chapel, the Raphael Rooms, Michelangelo’s Dome, Pinecone Courtyard, St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Peter’s Square. After visiting the Sistine Chapel you’ll enter what many consider a wonder of the world and the most magnificent church on earth – St Peter’s Basilica, before ending in outside in the superb square designed by Bernini. Overnight in Rome. Meals: B
In the morning you’ll board a high-speed train from Rome to Naples. Your driver will meet you and continue to Pompeii. Discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Pompeii, with a guided tour. Visit the haunting ruins of Pompeii, travelling back in time to the tragic days in 79 AD when the silent Mount Vesuvius suddenly erupted, covering the prosperous Roman city in deadly volcanic ashes and poisonous gases, leaving this prosperous city crystallized. After the tour, continue to Sorrento. You’ll arrive in Sorrento in the late afternoon, just in time for an aperitif before you head out for a lovely dinner. Overnight in Sorrento. Meals: B, D
We’re firm believers in allowing for free time to explore places on your own in order to get a true sense of where you are. Take time to enjoy a coffee at a cafe or walk along the main streets of the town. The best way to see the town is to walk, where undoubtedly you’ll unearth wonderful finds, whether it’s the intoxicating aroma of a bakery or handmade leather goods, beautiful music boxes or fine lace. Another great thing to do is to head over to Capri for the day. Visit the Blue Grotto, sit in a cafe on the Piazzetta, Capri’s famous square and make sure to have lunch looking out on the Faraglioni. Book a table at Il Geranio, Villa Verde or Da Luigi and you won’t be disappointed! Meals: B
Today enjoy a private visit of the Amalfi Coast with an excellent and expert driver-guide. This excursion combines the fantastic landscapes of Ravello and Amalfi along with the local culture of food and wines. In Amalfi, learn about the history of the city and the ancient Maritime Republics, then visit an incredible “limoneto”, a cliff where lemon trees are cultivated. Pick your lemons and prepare a fresh-squeezed lemonade “Amalfi style”. Later, continue to Ravello, a destination for artists, musicians, and writers, including Richard Wagner who composed some of his wonderful operas. Ravello is also famous for its villas, such as Villa Cimbrone, dating from at least the 11th century AD and Villa Rufolo. Overnight in Sorrento. Meals: B
After breakfast, make your own way to Naples airport or train station for your departing flight or train for your onward journey. An optional private transfer is available. Arrivederci! Meals: B