Adventures in Italy

18 Sept 2025 – 14 Oct 2025 · by gciva

Destinations

Brisbane, Australia
Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore
Rome, Italy
Palermo, Italy

Day 3 | Discover hidden Palermo as you join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, and learn about the civil anti-mafia movement
Erice, Italy

Leaving Palermo behind, we head to Erice to explore the hilltop 'Town of a Hundred Churches' and enjoy free time for lunch. Next, stop at the Infersa Mill salt pans and learn about the ancient 'culture of salt', an industry which has shaped this region for centuries.
Marsala, Italy

Later, we arrive in Marsala, home to the wine which shares its name. During your evening at leisure explore picture-perfect Marsala or opt to join the Optional Experience at a Marsala winery followed by a dinner of regional dishes.
Agrigento, Italy

Today’s first stop is Agrigento where you’ll join a Local Specialist for a visit to the UNESCO-listed Valley of the Temples. You’ll explore one of the world’s most treasured centres of Greek art and architecture, including the seven sandstone Doric temples overlooking the city. There’s time for lunch before you head to Ragusa
Ragusa, Italy

Day 5 | Explore Beautiful Baroque Modica This morning, discover the rebuilding of Ragusa following a 17th-century earthquake which destroyed most of it. Your Local Specialist will reveal how this devastating seismic event led to the development of an entirely new city on a nearby ridge, while some of its brave residents remained to rebuild what was lost. You’ll hear how it was only in the early 20th century that the two were eventually fused together. Later, visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Modica. Your Travel Director will show you the sights on an orientation of this Baroque beauty before learning about the secrets of Modican chocolate. This evening is yours to enjoy at leisure or perhaps consider joining an optional experience to a unique local farm restaurant. Meals: Breakfast OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: Aromas of Sicily - This evening, a scenic drive takes us to a unique family farm, where an out-of-this-world sensory experience awaits. The Russino family’s passion for the Sicilian aromatic herbs and plants they nurture is contagious. Their warm hospitality, tasty home-cooking and a stunning sunset will make this experience a highlight of your trip. Adult: 81.00 EUR
Syracuse, Italy

Day 6 | Off to Historic Syracuse Once a major Mediterranean power and the birthplace of Archimedes, the historic city of Syracuse takes centre stage this morning as you join your Local Specialist for in-depth insights into its colourful past. You'll see some of its treasures at the Archaeological Museum, then visit the island of Ortigia, the ancient heart of the city connected to the mainland by a stone bridge. Your afternoon is open to spend as you wish. This evening you’ll join your fellow travellers for dinner at a local restaurant. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: Discover The Isle of Ortigia - Discover the famous turquoise water of Ortigia during a relaxing cruise to the most beautiful part of the island, admiring the Spanish walls, the Maniace Castle, the Duomo, the Alfeo Promenade and much more. Do not miss the opportunity to enjoy the Sicilian sea breeze while sipping prosecco and testing seasonal local delicacies. Adult: 55.00 EUR
Giardini Naxos, Italy

Day 7 | Venture Past Mount Etna to Taormina Continue up the coast to Catania, the city that lies in Mount Etna’s shadow. You’ll have some free time to explore on your own and perhaps sample arancini, a favourite Catania snack. Later join a Local Specialist to delve into the history and culture of the ancient town of Taormina. A particular highlight of this afternoon will be a visit to the beautifully preserved ruins of the Teatro di Taormina. Imagine masked actors performing against the backdrop of glorious sea views more than 2,500 years ago. You’ll have an evening on your own to spend as you wish or consider joining an optional experience evening enjoying Sicilian specialities. Meals: Breakfast OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: You will be offered one of the following two Optional Experiences depending on availability: Dinner in Castelmola - Climb by minibus to the heights of Castelmola, above Taormina, to enjoy a tasty Sicilian Dinner with local wine in a characteristic restaurant with some of the best views of this magical part of the island. Then enjoy a tasty Sicilian Dinner with wine. Adult: 94.00 EUR Sicilian Dinner and Entertainment - Join us for a fantastic Sicilian evening where we’ll enjoy a dinner of Southern Italian specialities with musical entertainment. Adult: 84.00 EUR Day 8 | Taormina Free Day Taormina is yours for the taking today. During your free time, you could choose to explore the elegant boutiques along Corso Umberto. Work up an appetite and stop for some of the city's signature cannoli or cool down with a famous Sicilian granita, a half-frozen dessert served with a piping-hot brioche. Movie buffs will delight in an Optional Experience to Mount Etna and Savoca, the hilltop village of 'The Godfather'. Later this evening, learn the art of Sicilian cuisine on a charming Be My Guest experience. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: Mt Etna, Savoca and The Godfather - Discover rustic village life with your Local Specialist as we visit Savoca, the Sicilian setting for 'The Godfather'. Enjoy the stunning views before a visit to Vitelli's bar, featured in the film and famous for 'granita di limone'. Later, you’ll journey up Mt Etna, one of the most intriguing volcanoes in the world. (Footwear such as trainers or boots advised) Adult: 64.00 EUR
Catania, Italy

Day 9 | Farewell Sicily Your journey through Sicily has come to an end. All that's left is to say a fond farewell to new friends and take your airport transfer for your return journey home. Departure Transfer: Arrive at Catania airport at 06:30, 08:30 Meals: Breakfast We depart Catania with RyanAir FR4313 Depart Catania at 9.10am Arrive Naples at 10.20am Pick up at Naples airport at 11am and drop off at Castello
Minori, Italy
Rome, Italy

Day 1 | Welcome to Rome 2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration between December 24, 2024, and December 31, 2025. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. You're in for a bellissimo journey through the spectacular cities of Italy, which kicks off in the 'Eternal City' of Rome. Your introduction to la dolce vita begins as you join your fellow travellers and Travel Director for a delightful dinner. Welcome: Meet your Travel Director at 17:00 Meals: Dinner Day 2 | Explore Ancient Rome and the Vatican City This morning, join your Local Specialist for a very special experience in the smallest nation on earth - Vatican City. Explore the extraordinary collections of the Vatican Museums and stand beneath Michelangelo’s sublime ceiling in the Sistine Chapel. Admire the artistry of great masters and walk in the footsteps of popes who have found peace within the walls of this enclave for centuries. Visit the expansive St. Peter’s Basilica admiring the ethereal artistry of Michelangelo's Pietà. Cross the Tiber and venture into Ancient Rome to visit the Colosseum. Due to increased demand during the Jubilee year, access to the Vatican Museums may be limited. If tickets are unavailable during your visit, your sightseeing will instead explore the Capitoline Museums, home to the Capitoline Wolf, ancient Roman bronzes and Renaissance art. From its spot on Capitoline Hill, you’ll have the chance to take in views of the Roman Forum. Meals: Breakfast OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: Piazzas and Fountains - Discover the most enchanting areas of the city with a Local Specialist. Stroll through the maze of narrow streets and picturesque squares in Rome’s historic centre, uncovering famous landmarks and hidden gems in the Eternal City. Adult: 49.00 EUR Day 3 | Rome Your Way Enjoy a full free day to explore Rome your way, or consider an Optional Experience delving into the tragic history of Pompeii—the Roman city frozen in time by the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Your Local Specialist will bring its ancient story to life before you return to Rome, passing by the Abbey of Monte Cassino, a site of fierce fighting during the Second World War. Meals: Breakfast OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: Discover Pompeii - Join our Local Specialist on a tour of the excavations of Pompeii, the perfectly preserved Roman town engulfed by Mount Vesuvius' eruption in AD 79. You'll witness the devastating destruction it had on the area and have the opportunity to go back in time to catch a glimpse of everyday Roman life, frozen for almost 2,000 years. We then return to Rome, passing the formidable Abbey of Montecassino, one of the greatest shrines of Christendom and the site of an epic battle in 1944. Adult: 111.00 EUR Roman Delights with Dinner - Tonight, relax and enjoy typical Italian cuisine, soaking up Rome's unique atmosphere in a characteristic trattoria with drinks and music. Adult: 67.00 EUR
Assisi, Italy

Journey north through the rolling hills of Umbria to the birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi. Here your Local Specialist will reveal the story of this most venerated figure on a visit to the Basilica of St. Francis, the final resting place of this famous saint and home to a wonderful series of frescoes by Giotto. Later, continue your journey through the scenic Tuscan countryside to Florence.
Florence, Italy

Day 5 | Discover Renaissance Florence Enjoy a leisurely encounter with the artistic and architectural marvels of Florence during your walking tour with a Local Specialist. Visit the striking Piazza della Signoria with its impressive sculptures and palazzi. Amble through the charming cobblestone lanes to the Multi-coloured marble Duomo and Baptistery, before admiring the scenic view of the Ponte Vecchio straddling the Arno River. Spend the rest of the afternoon sauntering through the historic centre of Florence, shopping for high-quality leather for which the city is famous, or admiring the artistic contribution of the Medici at every turn. Meals: Breakfast OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: You will be offered one of the following two Optional Experiences depending on availability: Michelangelo's 'David' & Accademia - Step inside the Accademia Gallery for a closer look at Michelangelo’s David, one of the world’s most celebrated sculptures. With guidance from your Local Specialist, discover how this Renaissance masterpiece was brought to life and hear the stories behind Michelangelo’s work and legacy in Florence. Adult: 62.00 EUR *The Accademia is not available on Mondays due to weekly closure day. Discover Palazzo Vecchio - Marvel at the legacy of the Medici as you visit Palazzo Vecchio, the symbol of Florence's political power for over seven centuries. With your Local Specialist you’ll visit the wonderful "Hall of the Five Hundred" dedicated to the Medici popes. You’ll also visit rooms decorated with masterpieces by famous artists of the Renaissance, like Michelangelo and Donatello. Adult: 54.00 EUR Visit to San Gimignano - Explore San Gimignano with your Local Specialist and learn how rival families built towers in a race for status. Walk cobbled streets lined with medieval architecture and hear stories of life in this hilltop town, all while sampling a local sweet treat along the way. Adult: 61.00 EUR Day 6 | Uncover Pisa’s Treasures After a morning at leisure in Florence, cross the fertile Arno Valley to Pisa and join a Local Specialist to visit the Square of Miracles, home to the incredible Leaning Tower and the iconic marble cathedral. See the ornate Baptistery and the Camposanto, a monumental cemetery built on sacred soil brought back from the Holy Land during the Crusades. Meals: Breakfast OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: You will be offered one of the following two Optional Experiences depending on availability: Dinner in the Tuscan Countryside - This evening, take a scenic drive to experience a fun and relaxed evening at a friendly, typical restaurant in the countryside. The chef will delight our senses with regional dishes, made with freshly-bought ingredients from the local farmers' markets. Your delicious meal will be accompanied by excellent wines from the vineyards for which this area is so well known. In short, a Tuscan dream come true in an authentic setting. Adult: 78.00 EUR Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli - Through the Chianti hills, you'll drive past vineyards to a delightful hamlet. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the great political theorist wrote his immortal work, ‘The Prince'. After a welcome drink and a visit of the villa and its wine-cellars, enjoy the best of Tuscan cuisine accompanied by great music and drinks, including of course, Chianti from the Villa's own vines. Adult: 78.00 EUR
Bologna, Italy

Day 7 | Journey to Bologna and Venice Travel north, through the Apennines, to the medieval city of Bologna, perhaps best known for the delicious pasta sauce that bears its name. Your sightseeing tour with a Local Specialist includes views of the Kissing Towers, which lean towards each other, seemingly poised to embrace.
Metropolitan City of Venice, Italy

Then it's off to the romantic island city of Venice with its rich cultural and artistic heritage. Spend time at leisure gliding along its enchanting canals in a gondola or wander through the city's labyrinthine lanes, over bridges and into quiet campi. Meals: Breakfast OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: Gondolas & the Grand Canal - Cruise by private water taxi along the Grand Canal, passing the city's iconic palazzi. Spot the Rialto Bridge and arrive near St. Mark's Square before switching pace with a gondola ride through Venice's quieter canals. Adult: 93.00 EUR Day 8 | Cruise Venice’s Canals Savour the iconic and unexpected highlights of Venice as you cruise by private launch to St. Mark's Square to admire the Bridge of Sighs, Palladian churches, Customs House, St. Mark's Basilica and the ornate Doge's Palace. This afternoon, enjoy a visit to one of the city’s last remaining studios where you’ll gain insights into the delicate Venetian art of glassblowing. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure admiring this city on water or consider an Optional Experience to the island of Burano where colourful fishermen’s homes line the canals. Meals: Breakfast OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks - Cruise across the Venetian Lagoon to Burano, a small island known for its brightly coloured houses and strong fishing traditions. Wander along quiet canals and browse shops selling handmade lace, a craft passed down through generations. Then sit down to a relaxed dinner featuring local flavours and regional wine, surrounded by the island’s cheerful character and laid-back charm. Adult: 86.00 EUR Day 9 | Experience Daily Life in Venice Meet a passionate lagoon conservationist for an engaging discussion on safeguarding environmental conditions in Venice during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Sites made famous in poetry, song and prose are explored today when you join a Local Specialist for a walking tour along the canals to the famous Rialto Bridge, where all the flavours of Italy come to life at a centuries-old food market. Amble through the narrow calli of Venice and admire the beautiful architecture. Walk over the Rialto Bridge before spending the rest of the day visiting the sights of your choice. Your love affair with Italy's great Italian cities comes to an end this evening as we enjoy dinner. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES: Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Square - Visit the magnificent Doge's Palace, once home to the rulers of the Venetian republic. Accompanied by a Local Specialist, you will walk across the famous Bridge of Sighs before exploring the ornate chambers and grand halls of the palace. Afterwards, soak up the magical atmosphere of St. Mark's Square and delight in the stories about its unique history. Adult: 67.00 EUR Day 10 Our final free day in Venice