This leisurely immersive tour captures the quintessential Italian 'good life' as we showcase the essence of 'dolce vita' through indulgent destinations, alluring culture, exquisite food and fine wines. Discover Rome, Amalfi Coast, Venice, Florence, Sorrento, Tuscany, Cinque Terre, Milan, Alberobello, Italian Lakes, Pisa, Pompeii and more. We explore the stunning landscapes, fashionable cityscapes, unparalleled classical arts, diverse cuisine and bold wines of Italy. Celebrate the ancient history of the Roman Empire and live the dolce vita Roman good life with a stay in the historic centre of Rome with a flexi-tour. Fall in love with the glamorous Amalfi Coast and Sorrento. Experience the floating masterpiece of Venice in true style. Immerse yourself in the visual and culinary delights of Italy’s remarkable Tuscany region and the magic of Florence, Pisa and Cinque Terre. Surrender to the allure of fashionable Milan. Indulge in the romance of the breathtakingly beautiful Italian Lakes district, adorned with charming storybook villages. Encounter Mount Vesuvius volcano and excavated Pompeii. Step into Alberobello's fairytale, where whimsical trulli houses create a landscape of historical enchantment. Witness Assisi's iconic Basilica nestled amidst the rolling hills of Umbria. Savour Siena's medieval splendour, the iconic Piazza del Campo radiating Renaissance charm. Admire Juliet’s balcony enveloped in Verona’s timeless romance. Discover San Gimignano's medieval majesty, its iconic towers defining the Tuscan skyline above verdant vineyards. Ascend to historic heights at Monte Cassino, soak up the coastal allure of La Spezia and visit the tiny medieval microstate of San Marino - the world's oldest surviving sovereign state. Uncover Rome’s authentic hidden gems on a special walking tour of the cobbled backstreets of Trastevere and Roman Ghetto. Savour your indulgent Italian journey with us, as we taste the best of this renown gastronomic and wine haven. Connect to the essence of Italy and a passion for life, beyond the iconic pasta, Vespas, Ferraris, pizza and fashion. Explore the epicentre of the Roman empire and birthplace of the Renaissance. Immerse yourself in this incredibly diverse land. Discover the instantly recognisable and our special hidden gems. Explore the seemingly limitless wealth of attractions of Italy. History is all around you as we encounter the everchanging landscapes, cultures, stories, art, architecture, cuisines and wines. Uncover the real Italy with HolidayMax’s immersive touring. Themes include: Europe, Europe Touring, Lazio, Salerno, Lombardy, Veneto, Departs from Rome, Luxury Coach, Returns from San Marino. + Show more

Package Includes

Return international flights to Rome (premium airline)
Travel by modern large coach
Tour leader and host, with local guides
5 Nights Rome Hotel (quality 4 Star)
2 Nights Alberobello Hotel
2 Nights Amalfi Coast Hotel
2 Nights Tuscany region Hotel
2 Nights Venice area Hotel
1 Night Assisi Hotel
1 Night La Spezia Hotel
1 Night Italian Lakes Hotel
12 breakfasts, 4 dinners
Rome flexi-tour
Meet and Greet Personalised Transfers

Highlights

Rome (Italy) Venice (Italy) Milan (Italy) Florence (Italy) Amalfi Coast (Salerno & Positano, Italy) Pompeii (Italy) Tuscany (Italy) Pisa (Italy) Cinque Terre region (Italy) Assisi (Italy) Sorrento (Italy) Sorrento Peninsula (Italy) Verona (Italy) Cassino (Italy) Siena (Italy) Alberobello (Italy) San Gimignano (Italy) La Spezia (Italian Riviera) Italian Lakes (Italy) Montecatini Terme (Italy) San Marino (San Marino) Leaning Tower of Pisa

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Descriptions

Amazing Experiences

• Experience Rome, Amalfi Coast, Venice, Florence, Cinque Terre,

Milan, Sorrento, Tuscany, Italian Lakes, Pisa, Pompeii & Alberobello

• Discover Rome your way with flexi-tours

• Enjoy free flexi-days to explore Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast,

Venice, Tuscany & Alberobello your way

• Enjoy free time in Florence, Assisi & Pisa (leaning tower) more

• Walking tours with local guides, including Rome, Florence, Venice

& Alberobello

• Visit San Marino, San Gimignano, Salerno, Positano, Cassino,

Assisi, Siena, La Spezia and Verona

• Special Italian Welcome Dinner in Rome

• Traditional dinner on the Amalfi Coast

• Umbrian dinner in Assisi

• Italian Lakes dinner

• Amalfi Coast & Sorrento in small vehicles

• Unique villages of Cinque Terre by coastal train

• Pompeii & Mount Vesuvius with a local guide

• Floating masterpiece of Venice

• Romance of Florence

• Fashionable Milan

• Breathtakingly beautiful Italian Lakes

• Allure of La Spezia (Italian Riviera)

• Siena's medieval splendour

• Leaning Tower of Pisa

• Italian Wine Tasting in Tuscany

• Medieval microstate of San Marino

• Alberobello’s whimsical trulli houses

• Juliet’s balcony in amorous Verona

• Abbey of Monte Cassino

• Majesty of San Gimignano

• Assisi's churches & basilicas

• Plus more immersive excursions and experiences...

DAY 1 Depart Australia for Italy

Today we depart for Rome, Italy. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in Rome

You will be personally met at Rome Airport by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to your central Rome hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this iconic city.

Home to more World Heritage protected cultural sites than any other country on Earth, Italy’s immense cultural wealth is beautifully complemented by its stunning landscapes, iconic cuisine, sophisticated cityscapes and unparalleled collection of classical art. Epicentre of the Roman empire and birthplace of the Renaissance, ancient monuments permeate contemporary Italian landscapes, from the canals of Venice to the golden shores of Sicily.

Meet and greet personalised arrival transfer, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 3 Tour Rome

Your first two and a half days in Rome are flexi-tours, so you can tour at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. Relax into Rome time with a choice of included touring options to suit your mood.

Feel the energy and excitement of the eternal city of Rome. Italy’s hot-blooded capital is one of the world’s most romantic and charismatic cities. Immerse yourself in its vibrant fashionable street life, ancient monuments and awe-inspiring art. Ancient icons such as the Colosseum, Roman Forum and Pantheon recall the city’s golden age as the capital of the world, while monumental basilicas and picturesque piazzas compete with baroque facades and neighbourhood trattoria speak to the cities unrivalled complexity. Embrace the thoroughly intoxicating contemporary chic Roman lifestyle.

Your flexi-tour includes a circular driving tour, stay on for the whole tour enjoying our guide’s entertaining commentary or get-off at any one of 8 incredible stops and re-join our next circular tour bus at your leisure. It also includes our special digital walking tours.

Discover the Spanish Steps, Pantheon, Colosseum, Vatican City, Roman Forum, Piazza Navona and Trevi Fountain (coins at the ready). Explore Rome’s 3,000 year old cityscape, adorned with historic art and abuzz with modern culture. The city is awash with priceless treasures. Ancient statues adorn world-class museums; Byzantine mosaics and Renaissance frescoes dazzle in art-rich churches; baroque facades flank medieval piazzas; impressive fountains add a baroque flourish to the city's captivating streets. Discover the simple pleasures of Roman life.

The circular hop-on hop-off tour and our special digital walking tours are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach tour, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 4 Explore Rome

Make the most of your second flexi-tour today to discover more of Rome.

You’ll be spoilt for choice with compelling attractions like the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Vatican City, The Pantheon, Arch of Constantine, Roman Forum, Centro Storico, Santa Maria Maggiore, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese Gallery and Gardens, the Catacombs and Via Appia Antica. Maybe experience some of the best shopping in Europe, browsing stylish Roman boutiques or relax with an espresso.

A visit to Rome is as much about lapping up the dolce vita lifestyle as gorging on art and culture. Idling around picturesque streets, whiling away hours at streetside cafes and people-watching on pretty piazzas are all central to the Roman experience. One of Rome’s great joys is losing yourself in the narrow cobblestone streets that make up Centro Storico.

In the evening, fashionable people descend on the city’s bars and cafes for a sociable aperitivo (drink with snacks) and trattorias hum with activity. Eating out is one of Rome's great pleasures and the combination of romantic alfresco settings and superlative food is a guarantee of good times. For a truly Roman meal, head to a boisterous pizzeria or neighbourhood trattoria. To finish off, what can beat a gelato followed by a shot of world-beating coffee?

The circular hop-on hop-off tour and our special digital walking tours are included. Our special digital walking tours can include tours like: ‘Rome of the Emperors', 'Secret Rome', 'Squares & Fountains' and 'La Dolce Vita'.

Coach tour, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 5 Hidden Gem Walking Tour & Welcome Dinner

This morning, Rome is at your disposal for your final morning of flexi-touring. Spend an inspirational morning soaking up the sights, culture and cuisine of the Eternal City before meeting up with your tour leader this afternoon. Discover more famous landmarks and attractions or jump aboard the circular hop-on hop-off tour and return to one of your favourite neighbourhoods to delve even deeper into the local sights and culture. Perhaps find a quaint alfresco café and enjoy an espresso and a morning maritozzo as you watch the locals go about their daily life - or while away a few hours in a world-class museum or gallery. Maybe enjoy a leisurely brunch at a local trattoria, savouring traditional Roman dishes or spend some time exploring the Aventine Hill - home to the peaceful Orange Garden (Giardino degli Aranci) and the keyhole view of St. Peter's Basilica. The circular hop-on hop-off tour and our special digital walking tours are included – so tour as much as you like this morning or simply take it easy.

This afternoon, meetup with your tour leader and get to know the rest of your fellow travellers on our fully escorted Indulgent Italy Luxury Tour. Discuss the special activities that lie in store over the next two weeks.

We then embark on a very special walking tour with a local guide to uncover the hidden gems of Rome on a revealing journey through the cobbled backstreets of Trastevere and the historic Roman Ghetto. Vibrant and eclectic Trastevere is a picturesque maze of narrow lanes, ivy-clad buildings and lively piazzas filled with locals. As we wander through the bohemian heart of Rome, you'll feel the artistic pulse of the city. Discover hidden chapels, marvel at the stunning Basilica of Santa Maria and soak in the colourful atmosphere where local artisans thrive. Trastevere is a world away from the Rome’s iconic attractions, its authentic rustic charm will capture your imagination, transporting you back to Rome of the past. As we stroll through one of Europe’s oldest Jewish Quarters, you’ll step into a vibrant world rich in heritage. Roman Ghetto’s ancient synagogues, traditional kosher eateries and historic landmarks whisper their story along the Tiber River. Our expert local guide will bring the captivating stories of these authentic Roman streets to life.

In the evening we all enjoy a special Italian Welcome Dinner at a local Roman restaurant featuring a choice of traditional local dishes and contemporary cuisine.

Coach tour, dinner, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 6 Rome to Alberobello

Today we depart Rome and journey to the fairy-tale town of Alberobello. Nestled in the picture-perfect region of Puglia, Alberobello is a whimsical town where time seems to stand still amidst its winding rows of iconic trulli houses. These unique, cone-shaped dwellings create an intriguing landscape that transports you to a bygone era. Wandering through the narrow streets, you'll feel a sense of enchantment as the charm of this World Heritage protected site unfolds. With its timeless allure and architectural wonders, Alberobello invites you to step into an extraordinary setting where the past and present coexist in perfect harmony.

This afternoon, we embark on an enchanting Alberobello walking tour with a local guide, unraveling the secret wonders of this fascinating Italian town. Marvel at the unique architecture of the iconic Trulli buildings as our passionate guide shares tales of their historical significance. Meander through the narrow picturesque streets, where the timeless charm of Alberobello unfolds at every turn. Absorb the ambiance of this cultural gem as you explore the distinctive structures that make this town truly special. This afternoon, enjoy free time to immerse yourself in the enchanting allure of this magical village at your own pace.

Escorted Coach Tour, Overnight Alberobello hotel

DAY 7 Explore Alberobello

Choose how you’d like to experience Alberobello today, with a selection of activities on offer. Enjoy a free day to experience life in this remarkable town at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. Perhaps stroll through the world heritage protected Trulli district, where the iconic cone-shaped buildings take you back in time or immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the Trullo Sovrano - a two-story trullo showcasing historical exhibits. You could discover the craftsmanship behind traditional Apulian cuisine at a cooking class, savour the delectable flavours of local olive oils and wines or explore the town’s charming boutiques and artisan shops, where you can find unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Be sure to sample some local cuisine, unwind in the pleasant Piazza del Popolo, surrounded by cafes and restaurants and simply indulge in the warm hospitality of this fairy-tale-like town.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Alberobello and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity. Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Alberobello hotel

DAY 8 Alberobello to Amalfi Coast (Salerno, Positano)

Today we journey to the dazzling Amalfi Coast in smaller vehicles to access some of the most panoramic clifftop locations on the Amalfi Coast, escorted by a local guide. Perhaps one of the most picturesque places on earth, the Amalfi Coast is seductively beautiful; its verdant olive grove clad woodlands giving way to pastel-coloured postcard villages that cascade down cliff faces to meet the crystal clear waters of the Mediterranean. Our first stop is the stunning coastal town of Sorrento. This truly romantic and handsome clifftop destination was a compulsory stop on the 19th-century 'Grand Tour'. Still today it’s renowned for its high-pedigree hotels amid plunging cliffs that cut through the heart of the historical core.

From here we step into a spellbinding Amalfi Coast experience. Be enchanted by the Amalfi Coast’s iridescent coloured grottos where mountains plunge into the sea in a nail-biting vertical scene of precipitous crags. Seemingly endless picture-perfect turquoise seas and cinematic piazzas with pastel-coloured cascades of villages abound. Visit the ancient town of Amalfi, where an alluring Arabic-Norman cathedral overlooks the picture perfect beachfront and the delightful alfresco restaurants line the town’s main plaza. Soak in the idyllic charm of Positano, a mesmerising cliffside village that cascades down to the azure waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Its pastel-coloured buildings cling to the rugged slopes, creating a postcard-perfect scene that captures the essence of la dolce vita. Strolling through its labyrinthine alleys, you'll discover quaint boutiques, sun-kissed cafes and panoramic viewpoints evoking a sense of timeless Italian romance. Today we make special use of smaller vehicles and a local guide to navigate narrow backroads to fully appreciate the Amalfi Coast’s beauty.

This evening we complete our Amalfi Coast experience with a traditional Italian dinner. The Amalfi is famous for limoncello (a sweet lemon liqueur), and this is the perfect way to finish off your traditional Italian meal tonight.

Breakfast, dinner, overnight Amalfi Coast hotel

DAY 9 Explore Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast

Choose how you’d like to experience Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast today with a selection of activities on offer.

Discover the idyllic coastline of golden cliffs, roman archaeological treasures, isolated coves and vast sandy beaches. The Sorrento Peninsula is a relatively undiscovered gem; not so the bustling resort town of Sorrento, where modern resorts now stand - emperors once holidayed. The peninsula’s stunning coastal views and quaint fishing villages are matched only by its lush rolling hinterland covered in olive trees and lemon groves and dotted with sleepy country villages.

Highly recommended is the excursion to the island of Capri. Capri is beautiful – seriously beautiful. You’ll find Capri’s glamorous culture with just a short boat trip across the Bay of Naples. Steep cliffs rise majestically from an impossibly blue sea; elegant villas drip with wisteria and bougainvillea; even the trees seem to be carefully manicured. Capri has charmed everyone from Roman emperors to modern day movie stars. Enjoy the smooth blend of cafés, rugged coastline, ancient Roman monuments and stylish piazzas.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Sorrento and the Amalfi Coast and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Isle of Capri excursion ($112). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Amalfi Coast hotel

DAY 10 Amalfi Coast to Pompeii to Monte Cassino to Assisi

Today we depart the magnificent Amalfi Coast and journey to the archaeological treasure of Pompeii. Admire the spectacular views of Mount Vesuvius - the only active volcano on mainland Europe - as we make our way towards extraordinary Pompeii. Step back in time amidst Europe’s most compelling archaeological site. Once a thriving and sophisticated Roman city, Pompeii was buried under metres of ash and pumice after the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. Wander its preserved sites with a knowledgeable local guide, where excavated Roman villas, ancient street graffiti and haunting plaster casts of Pompeii’s inhabitants offer a unique window into the fascinating lives of its Roman people.

This afternoon we continue through the stunning Italian countryside to the Latin Valley with its rolling green hills, vineyards and rivers and the town of Monte Cassino. Set at the foot of Monte Cairo with the magnificent Monte Cassino Abbey towering overhead, the city of Cassino was a decisive WWII battle position, enabling the Allies to open a passage to Rome. We pause here to visit the exquisite mountain top site of the impressive Abbey of Monte Cassino. One of Europe’s oldest, the Abbey was founded by St. Benedict in 529 AD, its striking architecture and mountaintop position evoking a tangible sense of ancient grandeur. Restored to its original glory, it is still in use today. Perhaps choose to visit a Commonwealth WW2 cemetery where rows of immaculately kept graves stand as a testament to the sacrifices made during one of the war's fiercest battles. Surrounded by serene landscapes, the cemetery becomes a place of reflection, honouring the memory of those who lay there.

We continue our travels on to the region of Umbria. Known for its striking medieval hilltop towns and picture perfect Italian countryside, Umbria is a region steeped in history and rich in tradition; home to Orvieto’s Gothic cathedral, Assisi’s fresco-clad basilica, winding country roads traversing rolling farmland, dense forest and sunny meadows. Towering above the dreamy Umbrian countryside sits the medieval hilltop town of Assisi; birthplace of St. Francis and home to the awe inspiring 13th century basilica erected in his honour. Enjoy free time here this evening where you can perhaps discover the striking two level basilica, decorated by the greatest artists of the period; one of the Christian world’s most important pilgrimage sites, and then wander the medieval streets of Assisi with its winding roads of the pristine centro storico (historic centre) which affords its own saintly charm.

We share a delicious traditional dinner tonight - perhaps taste some local black truffles and fine cured meats paired with a full-bodied regional wine - which are central to an Umbrian dining experience.

Breakfast and dinner, overnight Assisi hotel

DAY 11 Assisi to Siena to San Gimignano to Tuscany

Today we journey through one of the world’s most picture-book countryside landscapes admiring Tuscan farmhouses, fertile vineyards and lush olive groves on our way to the medieval masterpiece of Siena. One of Italy’s best-preserved medieval cities, Siena is home to a remarkable ensemble of red brick gothic architecture and early Renaissance art. The magnificent 14th century Torre del Mangia tower soars above the town; its sun drenched central square extending out into the city’s historic districts, where vibrant narrow streetscapes and steep alleys are brimming with enticing restaurants, wafting Pasticceria aromas and unmistakable Tuscan charm. We pause to marvel at Siena Cathedral - a masterpiece of Italian Gothic architecture - its stunning facade adorned with intricate sculptures and its awe-inspiring interior featuring vibrant frescoes and a breathtaking marble-inlaid floor.

We continue through the dreamy Tuscan countryside to the walled town of San Gimignano with its 14 towers which rise up like a medieval Manhattan. Encircled by 13th-century walls, the striking hilltop town of San Gimignano ascends amidst the gorgeous Tuscan countryside; its legendary towers - built in aristocratic rivalry by feuding nobles – surge above the charming historic town. The village’s fresco adorned cathedral, beautifully preserved architecture, enticing rural surrounds and ancient skyscrapers create an unmistakably Tuscan encounter.

As the afternoon sun bathes the Tuscan countryside in a warm glow, we embark on an indulgent Tuscan wine tasting experience - where ancient vineyards whisper tales of sun-soaked Sangiovese and other renowned varieties nurtured by the fertile Tuscan soil. Each sip reveals the rich terroir of this iconic region, crafting an unforgettable journey through the nuanced flavours and aromas of Tuscan wines, some of which may be the renowned Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Breakfast, Tuscan wine tasting, overnight Tuscany (Montecatini) hotel

DAY 12 Explore Florence

Today we continue our Tuscan adventures in the region’s capital of Florence, with a captivating walking tour with a local guide. It’s the cradle of the Renaissance culture; it’s romantic, enchanting and completely irresistible. Learn about the legacy of the Medicis and see the Duomo and Piazza della Signoria, featuring Michelangelo’s ‘David’. See the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore and Ponte Vecchio.

The breathtaking terracotta-tiled dome of the Duomo di Firenze cathedral rises up above narrow cobbled streetscapes, dotted with 15th and 16th century palazzi, medieval candle-lit chapels, marble basilicas and fresco-clad churches. Artistic and architectural masterpieces lay in wait at every turn; from Botticcelli’s The Birth of Venus to Michelangelo’s ‘David’ in the Piazza della Signoria.

Enjoy free time here this afternoon to explore more of this intoxicating city. Perhaps indulge in a special Taste of Tuscany lunch before losing yourself amidst the enchanting and quintessentially Italian streetscapes of Florence. You could begin at the iconic Uffizi Gallery - home to an unparalleled collection of Renaissance masterpieces by artists like Botticelli and Michelangelo, stroll across the Ponte Vecchio - a historic bridge adorned with jewellery shops, or savour the charm of the Oltrarno district - known for its artisan workshops. Perhaps return to soak up more of the breathtaking beauty of the Florence Cathedral, with its mesmerising dome designed by Brunelleschi or simply relish a refreshing gelato in Piazza della Signoria, surrounded by the splendid sculptures of Loggia dei Lanzi as you delight in the artistic streetscapes of the cultural gem that is Florence.

This afternoon you will have free time to explore Florence and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Taste of Tuscany Lunch. Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Tuscany (Montecatini) hotel

DAY 13 Tuscany to Pisa to Cinque Terre to La Spezia

Today we journey through more spectacular Tuscan countryside made famous by numerous great painters, to see the legendary 800 year old Leaning Tower of Pisa. This compelling small city is best known for an architectural venture gone very wrong. The leaning tower is one of the most memorable sights in Europe and one of the seven medieval wonders of the world. Enjoy some free time here to ensure you capture the best images possible for your inspirational collection. The Leaning Tower, glistening in marble white, is a truly mesmerising sight to behold; radiating wonder over the breathtaking Campo dei Miracoli. Galileo once taught at the elite local University, which today bestows a vivacious student edge to the city’s glorious portfolio of gorgeous Romanesque buildings, Gothic churches and Renaissance piazzas.

From here, we head to the colourful southern end of the Italian Riviera, to La Spezia and the incredible Cinque Terre – where you will experience the spectacular Cinque Terre coastal train journey, made famous in the Pixar movie Luka. Amidst the spectacular coastal scenery and charming postcard villages of the Italian Riviera, the striking port city of La Spezia offers an authentic look into one of the region’s lesser known tourist destinations. Exuding the unique charm of a working port city; palm-lined promenades and fertile citrus parks give way to the winding streets, cosy trattorias and colourful balconies of the old town.

At Cinque Terre colourful houses and vineyards cling to steep terraces along some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on the planet. Made up of five ingeniously constructed fishing villages, harbours are filled with fishing boats and trattorias turn out seafood specialties along with the Liguria region’s famous sauce, pesto. These five picturesque coastal cliff-side villages have no vehicles and are linked by rail and footpath. Enjoy wonderful free-time exploring the towns by train or by foot, perhaps try some of the best seafood in Italy.

Breakfast, Cinque Terre Train Pass, overnight La Spezia hotel

DAY 14 La Spezia to Milan to Italian Lakes

Today we journey to magnificent Milan. Global fashion capital and home of Italian design - Milan is a fast-paced metropolis where world class shopping, Michelin star cuisine and a treasure trove of art and culture come together in an inimitable confluence. Gaze in awe as the epic Duomo di Milano cathedral exudes Gothic splendour upon the city’s otherwise futuristic skyline and trendy locals for whom style is an art form. Marvel at the cathedral's intricate details - a masterpiece of Gothic architecture - as you fall in love with the historic grandeur that adorns this dynamic metropolis.

This afternoon, we continue on to the spectacular Italian Lakes – here you will understand why famous writers like DH Lawrence and Hemingway were so inspired by this region of Italy. With a holiday alure dating back to Roman times, Italy´s five stunning glacial lakes are astounding in their beauty. Set against a backdrop of the towering Alps, picturesque villages, rustic churches, rolling vineyards and Roman archaeological treasures line the shores as fishing boats bob amidst the Italian Lakes peaceful cerulean waters. Gardens burst with colour, restaurants serve divine local specialties and grand Belle Époque hotels line the waterfront. We enjoy a delicious Italian Lakes meal together this evening at our hotel.

Breakfast, dinner, overnight Italian Lakes region hotel

DAY 15 Italian Lakes to Verona to Venice

Today we visit ‘fair Verona’; a truly enchanting city of pretty piazzas and medieval laneways which sits on the banks of the stunning Adige River, its multiple picturesque bridges adjoining each side of this ancient metropolis. Famed as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and home to the stunningly preserved 1st Century Roman amphitheatre and city gates, it has the most significant monuments of Roman antiquity north of Rome. We pause to admire Juliet’s balcony – where Romeo is said to have wooed the seemingly shy yet brave and independent Juliet.

With our hearts full of drama and romance we continue on to Venice, a city built on more than 100 small islands that are lined with splendid Renaissance and Gothic palaces. It has no roads, just canals like the famous Grand Canal. The central square, Piazza San Marco, contains St. Mark’s Basilica, which is tiled with Byzantine mosaics, and the Campanile bell tower offering views of the city’s famous red roofs.

We experience a walking tour along the canals and ancient narrow laneways through the heart of Venice to find out why this is such a famous city. See the instantly recognisable Rialto Bridge, St Mark's Square, the Bridge of Sighs and the Doge's Palace. A fairy-tale city of dreamlike canals, winding cobbled footpaths and fuschia-pink sunsets, Venice makes a habit of exceeding even the grandest of expectations. The Illustrious Grand Canal reflects atop its waters centuries of Venetian architecture enroute to Piazza San Marco, where St. Mark’s Basilica and the Campanile bell tower offer breathtaking views over this famous city.

Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Venice. Perhaps sip an espresso, take a cruise along the canals on a gondola or relax and watch the world go by in one of the many piazzas.

You can explore Venice and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like a Venice Gondola Ride ($35) or Speedboat Excursion. Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Venice area hotel

DAY 16 Explore Venice

Today enjoy a free day to experience Venetian life at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. The main city is small and compact, so you can easily wander from end to end. Explore the canals, sit and relax in the vibrant small squares, browse the chic shops and high-end boutiques, go cafe-hopping, indulge in a gastronomic extravagance or spend time immersing yourself in the fascinating Venetian history, art and culture. With over 400 bridges and endless laneways, one of the best things to do is to just wander… and get lost in Venice.

Perhaps spend the day discovering somewhere in detail, like Gallerie dell’Accademia, Tintoretto's Heaven on Earth, Basilica di San Marco, Palazzo Ducale, Opera at Teatro La Fenice, La Biennale di Venezia, Punta della Dogana or Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta. Maybe explore one of the other Venetian islands, like Murano, Lido, San Giorgio Maggiore or Torcello, each with their own character but distinctly Venice. Try to find Venice’s best Tiramisu (the decadent Italian cake dessert). It was invented in Venice in the 1960s and its secret recipe has been preserved by local restaurants and bakeries, with over 25 different kinds.

Discover the Venetian pleasures of la bea vita (the beautiful life): the wake-up call of the gondoliers' ‘Ooooeeeee!’, a morning spritz in a sunny campo (square), lunch in a vibrant bacaro (bar) and the fuschia-pink sunsets that have inspired centuries of artists.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Venice and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Venice Lagoon tour ($67) or Venice Food Tour ($122). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, overnight Venice area hotel

DAY 17 Venice to San Marino to Rome

Today we make our way to illustrious Rome via Europe’s third-smallest state to visit San Marino - perched proudly atop Mount Titano. A nation of clifftop castles and narrowly winding cobbled stone laneways, San Marino is the world’s eldest surviving sovereign state. Dating back to around 300AD, this mountainous microstate is surrounded entirely by northern Italy. Its capital, also called San Marino, with its medieval walled historic town is home to three ancient clifftop citadels, perched high above the countryside and offering stunning vistas towards the Adriatic Sea from their 3300 plus foot precipices.

From here we enjoy one final drive through the magnificent Italian countryside to the eternal city of Rome. This evening is yours to revel in the joys of this historic city. Maybe head to the trendy Testaccio district for aperitivo, indulging in the local tradition of pre-dinner drinks and snacks before savouring a leisurely dinner at a local trattoria showcasing bold Roman flavours. Perhaps round off your evening with a relaxing stroll along the Tiber River, relishing the romantic ambiance of the illuminated bridges that showcase Rome's timeless beauty, as you reminisce over your Indulgent Italian adventure before your flight home tomorrow.

Breakfast, overnight Rome hotel

DAY 18 Say goodbye to Rome

Time to say farewell to your fellow travellers as your Indulgent tour though iconic Italy draws to an end.

You will be personally met at your hotel by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to Rome airport for your flight home.

Breakfast, meet and greet personalised departure airport transfer

DAY 19 Arrive home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

Escorted Tour Details

Overview What to Expect in Europe Freedom and Flexibility Modern Coaches

Tour Leader Your Mobility & Fitness

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Escorted Coach Touring

Cherish the unforgettable moments of your HolidayMax escorted tour featuring unparalleled sightseeing and enriching cultural experiences. We are passionate about showing you the heart of the destination, enabling you to be truly touched by new experiences.

Your knowledgeable Tour Leader and host will ensure you get the best personal experience on your journey. Tours feature all the must-see sights along with our little-known exclusive hidden gems and special touches in each destination, with plenty of free-time for you to take it all in for yourself. Enjoy the freedom to tailor your holiday in your free-time, including whole free-days that give you a choice of activities to suit your mood on the day.

This exclusive HolidayMax tour is only for our Australian guests, enjoy a more fun and laidback experience with likeminded travellers. Stay in quality handpicked hotels. Savour deliciously authentic local dining in outstanding restaurants with a mouth-watering array of culinary experiences. Travel in large modern coaches with expansive windows for an incredible elevated view, in your comfortable seat with generous legroom.

Experience HolidayMax’s renowned immersive touring or river cruising. Join us on an unforgettable journey of discovery. We’ve taken care of the details; you just need to relax and embrace your sense of adventure.

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Last Few Deals Remaining

Indulgent Italy Tour

19 Day Touring Package

Limited Availability at these prices. Deal ends soon. Questions? Call 1300 887 469 or Click to Ask Us

$ 4999 *

Typically $7048

* Starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp570