1 WEEK IN NORTHERN ITALY

1 WEEK IN NORTHERN ITALY
  

Around Northern Italy, from charming Lake Como to fashionable Milan, then Verona, the city of lovers, magic Venice, and finally elegant Padua!

100% CUSTOMIZABLE

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Lake Como, a scenery for movie lovers
  • Milan, the 2,000-years-old trendy capital of Northern Italy
  • Sirmione, the hidden pearl of Lake Garda
  • Verona, the city of lovers
  • Venice, when wealthy merchants ruled the Mediterranean
  • Padua, the city of frescoes

DATES & PRICES

  • March 1st to May 31st – October 1st to 31st (Shoulder Season): € 5,215.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,660.00 / pax (4-pax group)

  • June 1st to September 30th (High Season): € 5,420.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,865.00 / pax (4-pax group)

Larger Group, Single Occupancy, Other options: price upon request

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

Accommodations in Double Room with Continental Breakfast (*):

  • Days 1 to 3: 3* Hotel in Lake Como area
  • Days 4 to 7: 3* Hotel in Verona city centre

(*) The Hotel list is available upon request

Transfers (**):

  • Day 1: Pick up and transfer to your accommodation in Lake Como area
  • Day 4: Transfer to your accommodation in Verona – Stopover in Sirmione
  • Day 6: Round trip by high-speed train 1st class from Verona Railway Station to Venice Railway Station + Round trip by private water cab from Venice Railway Station to Venice city centre
  • Day 7: Round trio by high-speed train from Verona Railway Station to Padua Railway Station
  • Day 8: Transfer to Milano Malpensa Airport / Milan Railway Station

(**) All transfers by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Guided Visits / Tours (***)/ Activities:

  • Day 2: Full-day excursion to Lake Como area
  • Day 3: Full-day excursion to Milan city centre - 3-hour private walking tour of Milan city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide
  • Day 5: 3-hour private walking tour of Verona city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide - Half-day excursion to the Valpolicella area - Visit of a Valpolicella wine cellar with tastings
  • Day 6: 3-hour private walking tour of Venice city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide - Half-hour Gondola Ride
  • Day 7: 3-hour private walking tour of Padua city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide

(***) All tours by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Admission tickets:

  • Villa Carlotta OR Villa Babianello in Lake Como
  • Duomo Cathedral in Milan
  • Saint Mark’s Basilica in Venice
  • Palazzo Ducale in Venice
  • Giotto’s Cappella degli Scrovegni in Padua

Full emergency assistance 24 hours/day by our Back Office

List of recommended restaurants and deli shops along the itinerary

All taxes

Options: 

  • Other options upon request

DAY 2 - LAKE COMO

Benvenuti in Italia and welcome to Lake Como!

The magnificent scenery of Lake Como (also known as “Lario”) has enchanted artists and travellers for centuries: from French novelist Flaubert to musicians of the calibre of Gioacchino Rossini, Giuseppe Verdi, and Vincenzo Bellini; it was here that he composed his opera Norma. Today Lake Como continues to attract members of the international jet-set and celebrities who appreciate the Lake's evocative beauty and surroundings.

The Lake (one of Lombardy's several incomparable lakes) is of a characteristic upside-down Y-form. The town of Como is situated on its southwestern arm, Lecco on the southeastern arm, and Colico on that northern. From the Lake’s shores, one can enjoy multiple fascinating views: suggestive “Borghi”, splendid villas and lush gardens await visitors searching for charm and relaxation or a little culture and contact with nature.

Breathtaking villas, one after the other, encircle the lake, a resort destination of the nobles of Lombardy since the 16th century. Cernobbio is the site of Villa d’Este(1600s), the location of Alfred Hitchcock’s celebrated film The Pleasure Garden”, and of Villa Erba, one of the most important Italian lake villas from the 1800s - today it is an internationally-known convention and expository complex. In the nearby Lenno, you will not miss Villa Balbianello, where “Star Wars: Episode II” and James Bond’s “Casino Royale” were shot. You’ll be amazed by its gardens, a perfect scenery for movie lovers.

Along the coast is Tremezzo, famous for its Villa Carlotta, with terrace gardens and a museum boasting works by Canova, Thorvaldsen, and Hayez. It was built in the 17th century for a powerful Milanese family. In the second half of the 19th century, Princess Marianne of Nassau bought the villa and gave it to her daughter Carlotta as a wedding present, hence the name. Her husband was a keen botanist and, over the years, turned it into the lush garden we see today.

Where the Lake’s three arms meet, you will visit Bellagio and Villa Melzi. The Villa, built in 1808, is much sought-after for its botanical park, with sculptures and a garden renowned for its beautiful azaleas and rhododendrons.

Lake Como

DAY 3 - MILAN

Milan is, first of all, the Fashion Capital of Italy! The showrooms of all Italian manufacturers are located in the city, and here buyers from worldwide distribution find the one and only “Italian Style”! But Milan is not only fashion, it is also and above all art, beauty and culture! Piazza del Duomo is the geographical and historical centre of the city. Palaces surround it with arcades; in the middle, you can see the Duomo, one of Europe’s biggest Gothic cathedrals, whose construction started in the 14th and ended in the 20th century. And on the Gran Guglia, the cathedral’s highest spire, the Madonnina, a symbol of Milan, stands. On the left of the square, the 19th-century Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II links the grand Piazza del Duomo with Piazza della Scala, featuring mosaics and a wrought iron and glass roof.

Then stroll down the streets of “Quadrilatero D’Oro”, the heart of the fashion industry, admiring the shop windows of Prada, Armani, Versace, Ferragamo, Dolce & Gabbana and Valentino. The multi-concept store by Giorgio Armani, Spazio Armani, in the elegant Via Manzoni, extends for 6,000 square meters and offers fashion showrooms, furniture, flowers and hi-tech Sony equipment. After shopping, enjoy an aperitif or a coffee at the Emporio Armani Cafè upstairs or book a table at the Japanese restaurant Nobu. Or taste a gorgeous Cappuccino at Pasticceria Cova, as locals often do in via Montenapoleone, “Montenapo” for the Milanese!

At dinner, what about a tasty yellow Risotto alla Milanese? According to an ancient tradition, the Duomo is where Risotto alla Milanese was “born”, invented by a boy who worked for the stained glass artist Valerio di Fiandra, nicknamed Zafferano for its habit of adding spices to his colours. One day, he also put some saffron in the rice, and the result was a great success!

Milan

DAY 4 - SIRMIONE

Here you may visit Sirmione, the “Pearl of the Lake”: its magic atmospheres were already described in Catullus' poems in the 1st century B.C. Catullus was born here and probably lived in the beautiful villa on the extreme tip of the Sirmione peninsula. It was the most extensive Roman villa in Northern Italy and its impressive remains, today called “Grotte di Catullo” (Catullus’ Grottos), can be admired. You will pass by the Castle, built by the Scala family, closing the Sirmione Peninsula entrance and stroll along its lanes. And finally, you may taste the great white wine of the area, Lugana, in a local wine cellar.

Sirmione

DAY 5 - VERONA

In a stretch of land designed in accord with the bends and twists of the River Adige, we find Verona, a visually stunning city of excellence. It is a city of many faces whose history can also summarize Italy's history – think of the works left by the Romans, the Medieval streets and the “palazzi” of the Renaissance.

The city’s commercial hub is Piazza delle Erbe, where the original Roman Forum was. This piazza represents the synthesis of several different historical moments: the 13th-century buildings – among which Casa dei Mercanti (House of Merchants) stands out - the painted facades of the Mazzanti Houses and the Madonna Verona Fountain, with its central statue from the Roman Epoch. Also dating back to Roman times is the most symbolic monument of Verona, the Arena (1st century B.C.). Originally constructed to host gladiator combats, it saw a long period of abandonment before it returned to the limelight with a new form of entertainment in 1913: after having hosted the premiere of Aida in that year, it has been known around the world for the sounds of opera that emanate from its stage.

Then, Romanesque Verona lies in its imposing Duomo, as well as in the Cathedral of St. Zeno, and in Castelvecchio, which looks out from the banks of the Adige; it symbolizes the Medieval power of the Scaliger family, to whom the realization of the crenellated Scaliger Bridge is attributed.

The palazzi of Verona narrate its long history of wealth and power. In Piazza dei Signori - which sits under the dominating Lamberti Towers - the portico of the Loggia del Consiglio catches the eye; in the 16th century, political life took place here, while the Palazzo di Cansignorio and Palazzo del Comune (or “della Ragione”) were the seats of military, judicial and administrative power. Nearby lie the Scaliger Arches, in the same-named piazza, and some of the most suggestive views of the city, including glimpses of the monumental tombs of the Lords of Verona.

Finally, the Verona of Shakespeare and the “star-crossed lovers” is a worldwide legend and lives indefinitely through the places made famous in Romeo and Juliet. Yet the original literary work was created by Luigi da Porto, a writer from Vicenza, in the 1500s; it eventually circulated in Europe, reaching England. It was the Bard who rendered it the immortal story it is today, allowing Verona to rest as one of the most admired and visited places in the world.

And remember: Verona is a very elegant city, famous for its classy shops!

Verona

DAY 6 - VENICE

Here you are in the “unique” Venice, the “city on the lagoon”, you will be astonished by its beauty and charm! You may start your visit with Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) and the interior of the Basilica, a 900 years old marvel of architecture! The church is unique in Italy for its golden Byzantine and Medieval mosaics, its intricate stone and marble traceries and exuberant Middle Eastern domes. Near St. Mark’s Basilica is Palazzo Ducale, the most impressive secular building in Venice and once the official residence of the supreme authority of Venice, the “Doge”. A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, the Doge’s Palace is an impressive structure composed of layers of building elements and ornamentation, from its 14th and 15th-century original foundations to the significant Renaissance and opulent Mannerist adjunctions.

At lunch, you may relax by tasting wine and savouring delicious "cicheti" (finger food). There is tremendous variety, and options include anything from simple cheese or salami to almost any kind of seafood, fried and grilled vegetables, sweet and sour sardines, creamy codfish and much, much more!

Then you may visit Santa Maria Gloriosa dei Frari (Saint Mary’s of Friars), striking for its huge size and for the quality of its works of art, including masterpieces by Titian, Giovanni Bellini and Donatello, and several grandiose tombs. Also, explore the streets and savour everyday life in an intricate maze of ancient narrow alleyways, lively squares with magnificent buildings and meandering canals, and finally walk on the Rialto Bridge, the busy "heart" of Venice. And last but not least, enjoy a Gondola ride on the city’s canals: a jump back in time, when Venetians moved only on the water.

Knowing what should be bought in Venice is not easy, as it is one of the most beautiful Italian cities. Rich in traditions, Venice presents a wide selection of souvenirs to take home as a souvenir of your trip. What you cannot miss among your purchases are the typical Venetian masks. The cost of the original ones is quite high, but it is really worth it! Another thing that should be bought in Venice is craftsmanship, appreciated worldwide. In the city of Italian carnival, it is a must to buy a Murano glass object. Each product is worked and painted by hand, but be sure you buy an original product from Murano, guaranteed by a label or a signature (and also by the seller), and not a Chinese copy!

Finally, at dinner you will be delighted by the flavours of the regional cuisine of Veneto, boasting delicious recipes such as Sarde in Saor, Risotto with seafood, the typical Baccala' mantecato, to finish with a fantastic Bussolà (for an overview of the regional cuisine of Veneto see our BLOG).

Venice

DAY 7 - PADUA

Padua is one of the oldest and most dynamic Italian cities. Founded more than 3,000 years ago along a curve of the River Brenta, today it is modern and cosmopolitan and well-known for its historic and glorious University and the innumerable art masterpieces diffused throughout the city. Padua is called “the City of Frescoes” because of its buildings' extraordinary range of frescoed surfaces. One of the main series of paintings from the 14th century is preserved in the Scrovegni Chapel, the work of the brilliant artist Giotto. A visit to the Chapel is a journey through poetry and pathos!

Its piazzas are the perfect departure point, particularly Piazza delle Erbe and Piazza dei Frutti, for centuries a daily produce market that is a cross-section of city life and commerce, as well as the ideal venue for seeing and socializing. Overlooking the two piazzas is one of Padua’s several symbolic monuments, Palazzo della Ragione, also referred to as the “Salone”. Close by is Piazza dei Signori, an elegant piazza with Renaissance touches circumscribed by famous monuments, including the Church of San Clemente, Palazzo del Capitanio, and the imposing Tower adorned with its famous Astrological Clock. Designed in the 1300s, the Clock marks the hours, minutes, months, days, moon phases, and astrological places. Also relatively nearby is Piazza del Duomo, dominated by the majestic Cathedral and the ancient St. John’s Baptistry.

Another of Padua’s symbols is Caffè Pedrocchi, built in the early 1800s. Commissioned by Antonio Pedrocchi and designed by the architect Giuseppe Jappelli, it is a beloved Paduan locale and hosts important cultural exhibits and events. The Caffè faces Palazzo Bo, the principal office of the prestigious Università di Padova. The University is the second oldest in Italy, and as a place of excellence in the sciences and culture, it boasts Galileo Galilei among its esteemed past professors. Not only, but the oldest intact anatomic theatre in the world – that can still be visited – resides here.

The Basilica of Saint Anthony, known as "The Saint", is the most important religious centre of the city and the destination of thousands of pilgrims who invade the city every year, especially on June 13, the Saint's feast. The vast building presents a characteristic fusion of styles in its complex structure: Romanesque elements in the bell-shaped facade, gothic in the plan of the ambulatory with the seven chapels, Byzantine in the eight domes covered in the lead Moorish in the two slender and slender bell towers.

In the vicinity is the oldest Botanical Garden in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded during the epoch of the Venetian Republic, it was conceived as a place dedicated to the study and cultivation of medicinal plants.

At dinner, look out for Risotto Ricco alla Padovana served with duck and chicken or Risotto with Radicchio, a vegetable grown locally, or Bigoli con Ragu’ d’Anatra” (little strings of pasta with a duck sauce), with a glass of white Pinot Bianco or, if you prefer, a red Merlot or Valpolicella, all produced in Veneto!

The tour is over, but the memories of a fantastic journey will accompany you for a lifetime!

Arrivederci for another tour with VITOR, Visit Italy on the Road.

Padova
1 WEEK IN TUSCANY

1 WEEK IN TUSCANY 
   

From Florence, the Cradle of Renaissance, to Pisa & Siena, the home of the Palio, then San Gimignano with its towers and Val d’Orcia with its fairytale landscapes. Explore Tuscany, the land of beauty!

100% CUSTOMIZABLE

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Florence, an open-air museum
  • Pisa, how can it stand?
  • Siena and San Gimignano, power in the Middle Ages
  • Val d’Orcia, where Man and Nature blend with harmony

DATES & PRICES

  • March 1st to May 31st – October 1st to 31st (Shoulder Season): € 4,260.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,035.00 / pax (4-pax group)

  • June 1st to September 30th (High Season): € 4,520.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,295.00 / pax (4-pax group)

Larger Group, Single Occupancy, Other options: price upon request

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

Accommodations in Double Room with Continental Breakfast (*):

  • Days 1 to 3: 3* Hotel in Florence city centre
  • Days 4 to 7: Relais in Siena area

(*) The Hotel list is available upon request

Transfers (**):

  • Day 1: Pick up and transfer to your accommodation in Florence
  • Day 8: Transfer to Florence Airport / Florence Railway Station

(**) All transfers by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Guided Visits / Tours (***)/ Activities:

  • Day 2: 3-hour private walking tour of Florence city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide
  • Day 3: Half-day excursion to Pisa
  • Day 4: Full-day excursion to San Gimignano and Monteriggioni – Drop off at your accommodation in Siena area
  • Day 5: Full-day excursion to Siena and Chiusdino - 2-hour private walking tour of Siena city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide
  • Day 6: Full-day private e-bike tour in Val d’Orcia area with a local Guide - Picnic along the route
  • Day 7: Full-day private excursion to Val di Chiana - 3-hour private tour of Montepulciano city centre with a Sommelier Guide, with tastings of Vino Nobile, Pecorino cheese and truffle - Visit of a Supertuscan Brunello di Montalcino wine cellar with tastings

(***) All tours by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Admission tickets:

  • Galleria dell’Accademia (Michelangelo’s David) in Florence
  • Leaning Tower in Pisa
  • Duomo Cathedral in Siena
  • San Galgano Abbey in Chiusdino

Full emergency assistance 24 hours/day by our Back Office

List of recommended restaurants and deli shops along the itinerary

All taxes

Options:

  • Other options upon request

 

DAY 2 - FLORENCE

Welcome to Florence, the land of Giotto and Dante!

Despite its international fame and greatness, Florence is also a small city whose history has been interwoven with that of its passionate citizens for more than one thousand years

In Piazza Duomo, you will be astonished by the Duomo with the incredible Brunelleschi’s dome, a masterpiece of art and architecture whose building techniques are still covered by a veil of mystery. Beside it, Giotto’s Belltower and the Baptistery, one of the oldest buildings in the city, with its famous bronze doors made by no and Ghiberti in the 14th and 15th centuries. In Piazza della Signoria, you will walk in the middle of bronze and marble masterpieces by Giambologna and Cellini inside the marvellous Loggia dei Lanzi, and will admire the imposing Palazzo Vecchio, one of the symbols of Florence and still the seat of government of the city. You may also spare some time to relax, visiting a typical market for shopping, strolling through the city's pedestrian streets, and crossing the oldest bridge in Florence, “Ponte Vecchio” (Old Bridge), rich in jewellery shops.

Your itinerary may include Galleria dell’Accademia, hosting Michelangelo's David, the most famous sculpture in the world. The David was uncovered and shown to the Florentines on September 8, 1504, and with its height of 4 meters, the impeccable physical features and the political significance that the iconography of David had taken over the previous century left the Florentines of the time speechless and has done the same ever since with visitors from all over the world.

Florence is also the main Italian centre for the production of high-quality leather goods. Florentine artisans are so famous that many fashion brands have opened factories in the city or close to it due to their high skill and the continuous inspiration designers take from the town’s masterpieces. The area around Piazza Santa Croce, in particular, hosts numerous leather shops and workshops.

Thanks to the tradition of Tuscan tanneries, there is no better place to find shoes for all tastes than Florence: from the creations, designed and produced by hand by skilled craftsmen, to the extensive collections available in stores, renewed every season. Above all, Ferragamo (also worth seeing the museum), Gucci and Prada for refinement and elegance. If you prefer a simpler style, many shops specialise in handmade shoes and sandals across the river Arno.

At lunch, you may enjoy Panino con Lampredotto in a typical Florentine market. At dinner, taste the simple yet unforgettable recipes of the Tuscan tradition, such as Crostini, Panzanella, and Peposo. And remember, Florence is the home of Fiorentina steak! In case you are a vegetarian, don’t worry: Tuscan cuisine offers tasty alternatives like Pappa al Pomodoro or Ribollita (read our BLOG to know more about Tuscan Cuisine).

Florence

DAY 3 - PISA

Pisa is famous worldwide for its “Torre Pendente” (Leaning Tower), but its wonderful square, Piazza dei Miracoli, set over an ample greenfield, hosts three other whiter-than-white masterpieces of exquisite Medieval art: the Cathedral, the Baptristy and the “Camposanto” (Graveyard). They are so unique that their creation originated a new style, "Pisan Romanesque".

This area was chosen to construct the Duomo of Santa Maria Assunta strictly for its centrality; founded in 1064, it was intended to celebrate the grandeur of Pisa during the Marine Republic’s epoch of power. "The temple of marble white as the snow"; that’s how the structure is described on the gravestone of its architect, Buscheto di Giovanni Giudice. Consisting of five naves with its transept divided into three naves, it is surmounted by a splendid dome encircled by a loggia. The Duomo’s façade and exterior lateral sections feature elaborate decoration in marble (which can also be seen on its interior), mosaics, and bronze.

In front of the Cathedral stands the Baptistry, also in a particular version of the Romanesque style. Initiated in 1152 by Diotisalvi, the Baptistry was finally completed in the 14th century; Gothic elements were added then. Of cylindrical form and circled by arcades of columns, this structure in white marble even boasts impressive acoustics.

The Camposanto closes the northern end of the complex's piazza. This monumental cemetery, begun in 1278, is bordered by a marble fence and houses a cloister at its centre. Unfortunately, most frescoes that once coloured its walls were destroyed in a fire in 1944 during the battle for Pisa.

Ultimately, the true symbol of Pisa is the Campanile, the Leaning Tower, which completes the image of this city. Because of land sinkage beneath it, the Tower stands at a significant incline. Its construction started in 1173, but the Tower was not completed until the second half of the 1300s. In cylindrical form, the blind arcades of its lower part mutate into six floors of loggias, repeating motifs from the Duomo. Inside, a spiral staircase of 294 steps leads to the heights of one of the most famous towers in the world, where the lovely belfry and a spectacular view of the surrounding landscape await.

Pisa

DAY 4 - SAN GIMIGNANO & MONTERIGGIORNI

Today, you will stroll with your head upwards along the streets of one of the most beautiful cities in Tuscany, San Gimignano, also known as the "Medieval Manhattan", thanks to its old and impressive 14 towers that dominate the town skyline. Originally the towers were 72, built by patrician families probably to demonstrate their wealth and power. Seven of San Gimignano's towers are around Piazza del Duomo; the tallest one is Torre Grossa, 54 meters high, dating back to 1298.

From Siena, you will move to Monteriggioni, the famous Senese fortress which guarded the boundary between the Senese Republic and the Florentine “Signoria”. A step back to medieval times that will impress you. All around are Chianti vineyards and pasturelands; it’s fantastic! The village can only evoke the Middle Ages with its 13th-century walls and 14 quadrilateral towers. Dante compared the towers to the Giants of Hell when this fortified site was an outpost of the Senese against the Florentines, passing several times from one to the other.

sangimignano

DAY 5 - SIENA & CHIUSDINO

In Siena, the city of the Palio, you will walk on the famous Piazza del Campo, the concave square where horses run twice a year in a dangerous race that symbolizes the city’s freedom. On the days of the Palio, the whole town goes crazy; read about it in our BLOG. Indeed, you will not forget the colour of frontages and roofs, the renowned colour “Sienna”, a pigment first produced during the Renaissance, that makes the city lovely and warm. And don’t forget to taste the Senese sweets: Cantucci (biscuits with toasted almonds), Ricciarelli (soft biscuits with icing sugar), Panforte (a cake with fruit nuts and spices) and Cavallucci (biscuits with honey, walnut, candied fruits and spices. Travellers who love dessert will be delighted!

Finally, here you are in Chiusdino, to see the famous Abbey of San Galgano. What a stunning place! Dating back to 1218, the Abbey was considerably wealthy until the 14th century, so much so that it was disputed between the Papacy and the Republic of Siena. Unfortunately, a remarkable decline followed so much splendour: local people used it as a warehouse of building materials, even selling the roof of lead to make ammunition and transforming it into what we see today. For those who see it for the first time, it is awe-inspiring due to its isolation and the absence of a roof. Finding yourself inside a church and having the sky as a cover is not usual, and when the evening comes, the stars offer a fantastic show. But why did the Cistercian monks build such an imposing complex in that secluded valley? The answer is simple. Very close to it, a church, the hermitage of Montesiepi, whose first nucleus is due to the same saint (and his direct followers), already existed. Inside its Chapel, also called "Rotonda" because of the circular shape of the central structure, an old iron sword is encased in stone, an apparent reference to the legend of Excalibur, the mythic sword of King Arthur!

Siena

DAY 6 - VAL D'ORCIA

Today, you’ll discover the amazing cultural and natural heritage of Val d’Orcia. Breathtaking views, ancient towns, and excellent wines are the ingredients that make Val d’Orcia one of the most beautiful spots in Tuscany: a land with a rich heritage that was declared a Unesco World Heritage site in 2004. Our Guide will take you at the discovery of the unknown corners of Val d’Orcia, off the beaten track. You will explore Radicofani and its surroundings, enjoying scenarios of extraordinary beauty. Via Francigena, the network of roads that went from Rome to Canterbury, passes through Radicofani; with your e-bike, you will experience this unique historical insight. And further on, you will visit Campiglia d’Orcia, Monte Cetona, Castiglioncello, San Casciano dei Bagni, and stop at lunch for a rich picnic based on the tasty products of this gorgeous land: Prosciutto, Pecorino and Red Wine. A fantastic tour in a land you’ll never forget!

Val d'Orcia

DAY 7 - MONTEPULCIANO & MONTALCINO

Val d’Orcia is one of the most fascinating places in Italy, included by UNESCO in the list of World Heritage Sites. Its landscape is a part of the agricultural hinterland of Siena, redrawn and developed when it was integrated into the city-state's territory in the 14th and 15th centuries to reflect an idealized model of good governance and create an aesthetically pleasing picture. The landscape’s distinctive aesthetics, flat chalk plains with almost conical hills and fortified settlements on top, inspired many artists. Their images have come to exemplify the beauty of well-managed Renaissance agricultural landscapes.

In Montepulciano, our friend Francesca will lead you to discover this beautiful town full of stories, legends and thousand flavours, introducing you to the excellent products of this unique land: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Pecorino cheese and Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.

Then, you will get to Montalcino, one of the prettiest hill towns in Tuscany. Around the village, rows of olive trees, precious grapevines and yellow fields create an enchanting landscape. Here you may visit a Brunello winery to taste the most famous Supertuscan wine, probably the best Italian red!

Then, you will stop in Bagno Vignoni, a tiny and charming village where the main square is a pool 49 meters long and 29 wide. Several hot springs, whose therapeutic qualities have been renowned since antiquity, bubble up from its bottom! All this creates a pleasant sensation; leaving will be hard!

Val d'Orcia
1 WEEK IN UMBRIA

1 WEEK IN UMBRIA
   

The hidden gems of central Italy: Assisi, the land of Saint Francis, quaint Spoleto, Perugia, the perfect mix between traditions and modernity, Orvieto and its majestic Duomo.

At the discovery of Umbria and its wonderful villages and small towns.

100% CUSTOMIZABLE

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Spoleto, urban harmony across the centuries
  • Orvieto and Civita, the cities “on the rocks”
  • Perugia, the perfect mix between tradition and modernity
  • Assisi, the extraordinary land of Francis

DATES & PRICES

  • March 1st to May 31st – October 1st to 31st (Shoulder Season): € 4,765.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,280.00 / pax (4-pax group)

  • June 1st to September 30th (High Season): € 4,870.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,385.00 / pax (4-pax group)

Larger Group, Single Occupancy, Other options: price upon request

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

Accommodations in Double Room with Continental Breakfast (*):

  • Days 1 to 3: Relais in Todi area
  • Days 4 to 7: Relais in Assisi area

(*) The Hotel list is available upon request

Transfers (**):

  • Day 1: Pick up and transfer to your accommodation in Todi area
  • Day 8: Transfer to Rome Fiumicino Airport / Rome Railway Station

(**) All transfers by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Guided Visits / Tours (***)/ Activities:

  • Day 2: Half-day excursion to Spoleto and Montefanco – Visit of a local Wine cellar with tastings
  • Day 3: Full-day excursion to Orvieto and Civita di Bagnoregio - 2-hour private walking tour of Orvieto city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide
  • Day 4: Full-day excursion to Todi and Deruta - Visit of a local artisan laboratory of ceramics in Deruta - Drop off at your accommodation in Assisi area
  • Day 5: Full-day excursion to Perugia - 2-hour private walking tour of Perugia city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide
  • Day 6: Full-day excursion to Assisi - 2-hour private walking tour of Assisi city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide - Visit of an olive oil mill with tastings
  • Day 7: Truffle Hunt with lunch in Assisi area

(***) All tours by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Admission tickets:

  • Duomo Cathedral in Orvieto
  • Orvieto Underground in Orvieto

Full emergency assistance 24 hours/day by our Back Office

List of recommended restaurants and deli shops along the itinerary

All taxes

Options:

  • Other options upon request

DAY 2 - SPOLETO & MONTEFALCO

Benvenuti in Italia, and welcome to Umbria!

Umbria is the greenest region of Italy, and its citizens are famous for their hospitality.

This morning, our first stop will be Spoleto, a medieval hill town in the Umbria region, famous for its summer music festival, “Festival dei Due Mondi”. Thick walls and a magnificent gorge surround the city, and fine medieval and Roman monuments sit along the streets. The Duomo is one of Spoleto's most pleasing sights: dating back to the 12th century, the cathedral is set against a backdrop of hills and valleys. The Rocca is high above the town, a Papal fortress used as a prison until the 1980s. A massive bridge, Ponte delle Torri, built in the 14th century, functioned as a bridge and aqueduct; we can walk on it for breathtaking views of the valley and gorge below.

In Spoleto, you can try a typical Spoletan food, Torta al Testo (bread prepared with water, flour, salt, pepper, and olive oil and cooked on a particular marble stone in a wood-burning oven); it is sometimes stuffed with ham, sausage, or simply with herbs prepared in olive oil.

Montefalco is the City of Wine and Oil, a true gem in the heart of Italy. Renowned worldwide for its exquisite Sagrantino, this celebrated DOCG red wine shines in its classic form and as a raisin wine, pairing beautifully with roasts and desserts alike. But the charm of Montefalco doesn't stop at its vineyards. The region's olive groves produce a highly sought-after extra-virgin olive oil, celebrated for its fresh, intense flavour and hints of fruity or herbal notes. Embracing the trend of organic farming, Montefalco's golden olive oil, benefiting from the prestigious Colli Martani PDO, truly captures the essence of this rich land.

Spoleto

DAY 3 - ORVIETO & CIVITA DI BAGNOREGIO

Orvieto in Umbria is perhaps the most beautiful hill town in Italy, perched up on a volcanic rock, its history dating back to the Etruscans.

Although just an hour from Rome, the architecture is different, with many of the buildings constructed out of “tufo”, a volcanic rock. Orvieto’s main attraction is its 14th-century Cathedral – a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with a glistening façade of stained glass, mosaics and sculptures. Another attraction is St. Patrick’s Well, a 62-meter-deep (203 feet) feat of engineering characterized by two spiral staircases that wind around the well (yet never meet), with 248 steps down to the water. A pleasant guided tour along a straightforward route makes it possible to know Orvieto’s underground world, created by its ancient inhabitants over about 2,500 years of uninterrupted digging. A tour at the discovery of a millenary, surprising and unexpected “Underground City”, you will surely enjoy it!

At lunch, don’t miss Salumi di Cinghiale o Cervo (boar or deer sausage) and Pecorino cheese and taste the region's prized white truffle oil together with the delicious white wine of the area, Orvieto Classico!

Civita di Bagnoregio, the spectacular “borgo” slowly sliding towards the valley, is also known as the “Dying City”. The town is famous for its unique position atop a plateau of friable volcanic tuff overlooking the Tiber valley. It is in constant danger of destruction as the edges of the plateau collapse due to erosion, leaving the buildings to crumble as their underlying support falls away.

Orvieto

DAY 4 - DERUTA & TODI

A town of Umbrian origin, Todi was long in contact with the rich Etruscan civilisation that prospered on the right bank of the Tiber. Its perched position and sturdy walls shielded it from barbarian invasions, and it prospered despite the battles of the early Middle Ages.

Just before entering the heart of the historical centre is the imposing Church of Santa Maria della Consolazione, which began in 1508 with a design attributed to Bramante. It is one of the highest works of the Renaissance in Umbria.

In the heart of the city is the splendid Piazza del Popolo, overlooked by the palaces of secular and religious power: the Palazzo del Popolo, one of the oldest municipal buildings in Italy, dates back to 1214; the Palazzo del Capitano in Gothic style.

The 12th-century Duomo consecrated to Maria Santissima Annunziata stands at the end of a steep flight of steps and features a stunning central rose window on its façade.

Beyond history and culture, in Todi even the palate can enjoy the land's bounty. One of the area's most appreciated wine products is Grechetto, a white wine with a straw-yellow colour, a delicate bouquet and organoleptic features that recall the gentle and fertile Umbrian hills on which its vine is grown. It is composed of white grapes, of which at least 85% must be of the "Grechetto di Todi" variety, and the remaining 15% of other grapes are strictly from the area.

In the afternoon, you’ll head for Deruta, famous for its splendid, brightly coloured maiolica. The production of ceramics in Deruta goes back to the 13th century. In those times, small “bottegas” produced objects of everyday use: jugs, bowls, and basins. Maiolica reached its apex in the 16th century, with artists representing various motifs, such as mythological figures, battles and religious scenes.

deruta

DAY 5 - PERUGIA

Perugia, the Capital of Umbria, lies on a hill 500 m. above sea level, with the old town spreading all around it and partly surrounded by Etruscan and Medieval Walls. Unfortunately, only a few ancient city remains have survived; the remaining urban centre is mainly medieval in style. The old town is, in fact, a typical Medieval village, one of the most beautiful in Italy.

A sightseeing tour includes Piazza Matteotti, also known as Sopramuro (“above the walls”), with Palazzo dell'Università Vecchia and Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo. Beside it, we will admire one of the most beautiful squares of Italy: Piazza IV Novembre, which can be considered the monumental and social core of the city, with at its centre Fontana Maggiore, a sculptural masterpiece by Giovanni and Nicola Pisano. This architectonical complex includes Palazzo dei Priori, built between the 13th and 14th Centuries, a symbol of the civil power of the time and now the home of the National Gallery of Umbria, which hosts the most important collection of Umbrian paintings, including several pieces by Perugino.

perugia

DAY 6 - ASSISI

Assisi is the birthplace of Francis, the nobleman who renounced all his possessions to devote his life to helping the needy and became the most acclaimed Saint of the Catholic Church.

The splendid Basilica, one of the emblems of Christianity, located on Mount Subasio and overlooking the entire valley, is dedicated to him. Apart from being a strong appeal to millions of religious believers, the Basilica is a monument of great artistic value. The construction of the Basilica began two years after his death, in 1228, and between the end of the 13th and the beginning of the 14th century, the basilica's walls were frescoed by the best artists of that time: Giotto, Cimabue, Simone Martini and Pietro Lorenzetti. St. Francis' Basilica consists of two churches laid upon each other and a crypt containing the tomb of the Saint. The Lower Basilica presents a simple facade with a double front portal embellished with a rose window and a mosaic. The interior is decorated with frescoes by some of the most important painters from 1200 to 1300, from Cimabue to Giotto, from the Lorenzettis to Simone Martini.

In the Upper Basilica, you will admire the frescoes of the life of St. Francis, painted by Giotto, the stories of the Old and New Testament covering the entire nave, and other beautiful frescoes by Cimabue and Torriti.

Another figure who profoundly influenced these places is Saint Clare, to whom the homonymous Basilica -with a facade made of white and pink stone and divided into three sections by horizontal cornices - is dedicated. The interior frescoes and the remains of the Saint are visible through a window in the crypt.

Try to enjoy the mystical atmosphere of Assisi:

"Be praised, my Lord, through our sister Mother Earth,

Who feeds us and rules us,

And produces various fruits with coloured flowers and herbs."

(St. Francis, Prayer of the Canticle of the Creatures)

DAY 7 - ASSISI AREA

Umbria produces the most black truffles in Italy, and their quality is famous worldwide. Truffle hunting in Umbria remains a beautiful and simple pursuit. The image of mountains, hunters, dogs, and a leather bag full of truffles has remained unchanged for centuries. Truffles are one of the most prized ingredients in any kitchen, with each variety of truffle offering its unique aroma suitable for specific dishes.

On your last day, you will experience the thrill of truffle hunting, following our hunter and his hounds through the woods and experiencing the surge of excitement as they locate these edible treasures.

The tour is over, but the memories of a fantastic journey will accompany you for a lifetime!

Arrivederci for another tour with VITOR, Visit Italy on the Road.

tartufo

1 WEEK IN EASTERN SICILY

1 WEEK IN EASTERN SICILY
  

Around Eastern Sicily, the cradle of Italian civilization: glamourous Taormina, Greek Siracusa, Val di Noto and its marvellous Baroque, Agrigento and its imposing Temple.  

At the discovering of the culture and spirit of this wonderful island!

100% CUSTOMIZABLE

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Taormina, a patch of paradise
  • Siracusa, encapsulating Sicily's timeless beauty
  • Val di Noto, the triumph of the baroque
  • Agrigento, in the footsteps of ancient Greeks

DATES & PRICES

  • March 1st to May 31st – October 1st to 31st (Shoulder Season): € 4,605.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,335.00 / pax (4-pax group)

  • June 1st to September 30th (High Season): € 4,845.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,575.00 / pax (4-pax group)

Larger Group, Single Occupancy, Other options: price upon request

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

Accommodations in Double Room with Continental Breakfast (*):

  • Days 1 to 3: 4* Hotel in Taormina
  • Days 4 to 7: 4* Hotel in Val di Noto area

(*) The Hotel list is available upon request

Transfers (**):

  • Day 1: Pick up and transfer to your accommodation in Taormina
  • Day 4: Transfer to your accommodation in Val di Noto area – Stopover in Siracusa
  • Day 6: Round trip from your accommodation to the location of the cooking class
  • Day 8: Transfer to Bari Airport / Bari Railway Station

(**) All transfers by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Guided Visits / Tours (***)/ Activities:

  • Day 2: Free time in Taormina
  • Day 3: Full-day excursion to Mt. Etna area – Stopover in Acireale - Visit of a local wine cellar with tastings and lunch
  • Day 4: 3-hour private walking tour of Siracusa city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide
  • Day 5: Full-day excursion to Val di Noto area with an Authorised Tourist Guide: Noto, Ragusa and Modica
  • Day 6: Sicilian Cooking Class in Val di Noto area
  • Day 7: Full-day excursion to Agrigento – 3-hour private walking tour of the Valley of the Temples Archeological Area with an Authorised Tourist Guide

(***) All tours by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Admission tickets:

  • Greek Theater in Taormina
  • Valley of the Temple Archeological Area in Agrigento

Full emergency assistance 24 hours/day by our Back Office

List of recommended restaurants and deli shops along the itinerary

All taxes

Options:

  • Other options upon request

DAY 2 - TAORMINA

Benvenuti in Italia, and Welcome to Sicily!

Taormina, the “Pearl of the Mediterranean”, sits on a natural terrace above the sea. The Greek Theatre is one of the most suggestive spots, sited in a fantastic position and dipped into the blooming nature of this land. The view goes across the sea and reaches the Calabria coasts, the town of Siracusa and Etna's peak. Undoubtedly, today and at that time, the audience is fascinated by this beautiful view.

A walk in the Villa Comunale, offering typical Mediterranean maquis vegetation with a nice view sheer above the sea, is not to be missed. The coast offers charming sandy beaches lapped by crystal-clear water: the ones of Giardini Naxos and Mazzarò are the most frequented. In front of Capo Sant' Andrea, the coast of Isola Bella is today a protected natural oasis. After spending the day at the beach, you can shop in the workshops on the main street, where you can find everything – from pottery to jewels, from clothes to souvenirs. Or you can rest, drinking a lemon slush served with a hot brioche or a typical cassata siciliana.

The main food is, of course, fish: sardines, swordfish according to the best Sicilian tradition, but also eggplants, ricotta, olives and any good product that grows under the sun of this land.

Taormina Greek Theatre

DAY 3 - MT. ETNA & ACIREALE

Mount Etna, "a muntagna" as the Sicilians call it with affection and reverence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the majestic, incredible volcano that dominates the east coast of Sicily, the most active and highest volcano in Europe.

On the slopes of the mountain, nourished by lava, layer after layer, vines have been cultivated since ancient times. The grapes were planted by the Greeks, who began viticulture on these slopes as early as the 7th century B.C.. Their commitment and work were inherited and carried out also by the Romans, who expanded their cultivation. In the first half of the 20th century, pests and the two world wars led to a decline in viticulture in the region; many vineyards were abandoned and replaced by more profitable crops. Only at the end of the 20th century, a renewed interest in quality wines led to a rebirth of Etna viticulture. A handful of passionate winemakers decided to bet on old vineyards but invest in new winemaking techniques, capable at the same time of innovating but respecting tradition and terroir (and what a terroir, in this case). In this area, you will visit a winery at the base of the mountain, surrounded by incredibly fertile soils, and discover two of the most famous Sicilian wines, Etna Rosso and Etna Bianco.

On the way back to Taormina, you’ll stop in Acireale. This little city boasts one of the most beautiful squares in Sicily, Piazza Duomo. Its particular flooring gives it a decidedly scenic appearance, even if it is a relatively recent work. In fact, its concentric ring motif was added in 2009 to recall the shapes of the classic Gothic rose windows, similar to those seen in the Cathedral overlooking the square. Several imposing palaces complete this beautiful square: the Duomo, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, Palazzo di Città and Palazzo Modò.

Etna

DAY 4 - SIRACUSA

Cicero defined Syracuse as “the most beautiful city in Magna Graecia.” He was right, of course. Still today, the echoes of its ancient grandeur reverberate from the streets, churches and monuments, corroborating its religious and cultural importance: Syracuse is a destination no traveller should pass up and, with Sicily's Mediterranean climate, can be visited in any season of the year.

Made a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005, the city conserves ancient vestiges in every niche and corner, from Classical testimonies to Baroque splendours, all within a landscape of enchanting beauty. The UNESCO Site actually includes two different places: the cave necropolis of Pantalica and the historical centre of Syracuse. Both evidence the development and progression of ancient civilizations.

Thanks to its enviable geographic position, Syracuse was a crucial crossroads of commercial exchange since the Greeks settled it. Today it is a living artefact, connoting the customs and traditions of the many Mediterranean populations that passed through and dominated it, from the Byzantines, Bourbons, and Arabs to the Normans and Aragonese. Sùraka, as Syracuse is known in Sicilian dialect (meaning an abundance of water), was one of the principal settlements in Magna Grecia, a place of artistic brilliance and commercial power. It was also one of the most important centres of Christianity during the Middle Ages, and it later saw its Baroque golden age after the earthquake of 1693. However, the oldest urban nucleus resides on the little island of Ortygia, where we find the Temple of Apollo, the most ancient in Sicily. The remains from the Temple of Athena (5th Century B.C.) were later converted into the Cathedral, while the Temple of Zeus “rui culonne” (two columns) because what is left of the entire structure consists of just two columns.

In the 4th Century B.C., Syracuse expanded via the residential quarters of Tyche and (the monumental) Neapolis ( Ortygia, Acradina and Epipoli already existed). Traces left by the Roman conquest include the beloved Amphitheatre, while just as magnificent is the Castello di Maniace, a Byzantine citadel commissioned by Frederick II of Swabia.

The Cave Necropolis of Pantalica is not far from Syracuse, close to open quarries. Pantalica became a refuge on the plateau of the Iblei Mountains for the coastal inhabitants fleeing the Sicels and other Italic populations that landed here in the first half of the 8th Century B.C. (the period to which these scenographic necropolises date). The complex consists of approximately 5,000 tombs dug into the rock, and the Anaktoron (Prince’s Palace) positioned at the top of a hill, a reminder of the majestic Mycenaean palaces.

Syracuse Cathedral

DAYS 5 & 6 - VAL DI NOTO

In southeastern Sicily, Val di Noto (the Noto Valley) – with its eight gorgeous late-Baroque cities – became one of the Italian UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2002. The eight, Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo, Ragusa and Scicli, already existed during the Medieval Age. Still, they were rebuilt (in part or entirely) after the catastrophic earthquake of 1693. Following the stylistic model predominant during the era, the cities’ architecture, urban plan and decorations constitute the culmination of one of the last periods of Baroque’s flourishing in Europe.

Known in antiquity as Ibla, Ragusa features two somewhat different city centres, one reconstructed from the ground up, in the new style, after the events of 1693 and the other according to its original Medieval look. An itinerary through the Baroque in Ragusa winds among nine principal churches (e.g. San Giovanni Battista, San Giorgio, Santa Maria dei Miracoli) and seven palazzi (including the Cancelleria, Bertini, and Cosentini).

Palazzolo and Modica also have two urban centres. The first one in Palazzolo is a Medieval centre around which the old city was rebuilt after the earthquake. The new town subsequently developed around another town centre. The Churches of San Sebastiano, and Saints Peter and Paul are of particular importance. Of rare beauty, Modica and its old Castle centre are high on one of the hills in the Iblei Mountains, while the other, newly-constructed one lies down in the valley. Among the spectacular urban monuments, the Cathedral of San Giorgio and the Church of St. Peter (the “Duomo” of the lower city) certainly merit a visit.

The city of Noto is rehashed in an entirely new area, also divided into two levels. The more recent section, on an incline, provides a spectacular composition of streets and buildings in the Baroque, from noble palaces such as Palazzo Ducezio to religious complexes - the Cathedral of San Nicolò, for example.

Finally, the last pearl on the string of the Noto Valley's cities is represented by magnificent Scicli, where churches and patrician villas make for a visibly striking urban panorama. Specifically, Palazzo Beneventano (especially its glorious facade) is an architectonic and artistic masterpiece.

Finally, on a Sicilian Cooking Class at a home restaurant, you’ll embark on a culinary journey at the discovery of the flavours of the Mediterranean, discovering the sheer excellence hidden in simplicity. You'll have the opportunity to master some signature dishes, including fresh pasta, fragrant focaccia, Arancini and Cannoli with Ricotta, and enchanting Santa Agata sweets. This experience will captivate you, leaving an unforgettable imprint on your culinary journey.

Ducezio Palace in Noto Valley

DAY 7 - AGRIGENTO

In the Valley of the Temples (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the fascination of ancient history blends with the beauty of nature. The sea on one side, the old city-hill on the other, the majestic Doric-style temples rising in the centre of it all, and the tones of the tufo with which they are constructed create a picture-perfect setting.

The Temple of Concordia is the most well-preserved of the temples, having been transformed into a church. The Temple of Juno still boasts 25 of its original 34 columns to support its structure. Then, the Temple of the Dioscuri is considered the most symbolic, while the Temple of Hercules is the oldest. Together with the Temple of Zeus, these five giants dominate the Valley.

Leaving the Valley and heading towards the city, you will come across the remains of the Hellenistic-Roman Quarter, with its houses decorated in beautiful mosaics. The ancient shops, wells, cisterns and the sewer system lend a relatively clear idea of how the old city looked. Evidence abounds from the Greek era: be sure to see the fascinating objects at the Regional Archaeological Museum; they originate from the ancient area of Akragas.

Through Porta di Ponte, you will enter the ancient quarter of Agrigento, still conveying the image of a Medieval village, with its narrow roads and steep, winding alleys all converging towards the main road. Stroll through the ancient city and wander to the Cathedral, where a grand stairway leads to the churchyard and bell tower, the construction of which has never been completed.

The tour is over, but the memories of a fantastic journey will accompany you for a lifetime!

Arrivederci for another tour with VITOR, Visit Italy on the Road.

Valley of the temples

1 WEEK IN PUGLIA

1 WEEK IN PUGLIA
   

Matera, the perfect movie set, Alberobello and its fantastic houses, and Salento with Lecce, the Florence of the South”.

At the discovery of green Puglia, with its transparent seas and exceptional food!

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Martina Franca and Ostuni, the white cities
  • Alberobello, living in Trulliland
  • Matera, the city of stones
  • Lecce, the “Florence of the South”
  • Salento, crossroad of civilizations

DATES & PRICES

  • March 1st to May 31st – October 1st to 31st (Shoulder Season): € 4,515.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,025.00 / pax (4-pax group)

  • June 1st to September 30th (High Season): € 4,980.00 / pax (2-pax group) – € 3,495.00 / pax (4-pax group)

Larger Group, Single Occupancy, Other options: price upon request

WHAT'S INCLUDED:

Accommodations in Double Room with Continental Breakfast (*):

  • Days 1 to 4: Masseria in Fasano area
  • Days 5 to 7: Masseria in Lecce area

(*) The Hotel list is available upon request

Transfers (**):

  • Day 1: Pick up and transfer to your accommodation in Fasano area
  • Day 5: Transfer to your accommodation in Lecce area
  • Day 8: Transfer to Bari Airport / Bari Railway Station

(**) All transfers by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Guided Visits / Tours (***)/ Activities:

  • Day 2: Full-day excursion to Locorotondo and Cisternino
  • Day 3: Full-day excursion to Martina Franca – Mozzarella and Burrata making class in an ancient Masseria
  • Day 4: Full-day excursion to Matera and Alberobello – 3-hour private walking tour of Matera city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide
  • Day 5: Pugliese Cooking Class in a typical Trullo
  • Day 6: Full-day excursion to Lecce – 3-hour private walking tour of Lecce city centre with an Authorised Tourist Guide – Visit of a local wine cellar with tastings
  • Day 7: Full-day excursion to Otranto - Free time

(***) All tours by private Sedan (2 pax ) / Minivan (3 to 6 pax) / Minibus (7 to 15 pax) 

Admission tickets:

  • Church and cave House in Matera

Full emergency assistance 24 hours/day by our Back Office

List of recommended restaurants and deli shops along the itinerary

All taxes

Options: 

  • Other options upon request

DAYS 2 & 3 - MARTINA FRANCA & LOCOROTONDO

Benvenuti in Italia, and Welcome to Puglia!

Martina Franca is a charming baroque town 400 metres above sea level. The era of greatest splendour for this city was undoubtedly the 18th century when the most important monuments and churches still dominating the historic centre were built. Baroque is the predominant style; it can be seen in many buildings, and in this city, it has taken on characteristic connotations that distinguish it from the other variations of this artistic and architectural current; in fact, we speak of “Martinese” Baroque.

The city centre is characterized by a labyrinth of narrow streets and narrow cobbled streets, surrounded by houses that develop mainly vertically; in the past, shops were on the ground floor, while the first and second floors were used for family life. Saint Martin’s Basilica in Piazza del Plebiscito, the city's central square, features a majestic façade featuring the image of St. Martin (the town's Patron Saint) while sharing his cloak with a beggar. The interior boasts paintings of great value by Domenico Antonio Carella and a high altar in polychrome marble of the 18th century. The church also houses the relics of Santa Comasia and Santa Martina.

Locorotondo is nestled in the Itria valley, and its evocative name anticipates its conformation. From the various vantage points, you can enjoy the typical rural landscape characterised by “casedde”, masserie and small trulli. In the historical centre, organised with concentric lanes, the low houses with pointed roofs and whitewashed walls (the “cummerse”, initially to fight the sun and the plague) have become, over time, the very symbol of the village. Entering through the Porta Napoli gate, between open spaces and houses, you come to Palazzo Comunale (early 18th century) and Palazzo Morelli, with elegant Baroque balconies. The heart of the village is the Church of S. Giorgio, dating back to the late 18th century, while the Church of Santa Maria la Greca is of Roman-Gothic inspiration and features a splendid rose window.

Puglia is the land of Burrata, a unique, creamy variety of Mozzarella. At a local dairy farm in the area, under the guidance of an expert dairyman, you will enjoy making fresh mozzarella and creamy burrata in a traditional, homemade way. You’ll learn about the cheese-making process and try making this typical Apulian tasty food with your hands! And, at the end of the visit, a delicious tasting awaits you, with a rich selection of fresh milk products, local cold cuts and baked goods, and a glass of Apulian wine.

martinafranca

DAY 4 - MATERA & ALBEROBELLO

Matera is one of the oldest cities in the world, whose territory holds evidence of human settlements starting from the Paleolithic and without interruption until today. Touring Matera is like experiencing a forgotten past - you feel like setting foot in a nativity scene when you visit this charming city in Lucania. It’s no coincidence it’s referred to as “the second Bethlehem” and was the setting for Mel Gibson’s movie “The Passion” and the last James Bond, “No time to die”.

Matera is widely known as the city of the “Sassi”, the original urban nucleus, developed from the natural caves carved into the rock and subsequently modelled in increasingly complex structures.

In the 1950s, when the inhabitants who lived in the caves dug out of the mountain were forced to abandon those dwellings to settle in modern districts, no one would have ever thought that those grottos - the Sassi - would have become the symbol of a reborn city. UNESCO added the Sassi of Matera to its list of World Heritage Sites in 1993 as a whole and a millennial way of life to be preserved and handed down to our descendants. In fact, it was recognized as a model for living harmoniously with the environment while integrating with it and taking advantage of resources without disturbing the environment.

Geologists call it calcarenite, and ordinary folk refer to it as “tuff”: it’s the rock surrounding Matera that this land’s master artisans learned to work with in ancient times. This brittle, adaptable material is abundant in the mountain that dominates the city, so it seemed only natural for the people from Matera to go up there and dig out that rock to build a home. The extracted material was processed to make the façade of the dwelling. After the first home, others were constructed until the network of houses, tunnels and alleyways became that magical place called Sassi - a gigantic sculpture, a miracle of town planning!

In Matera, you’ll discover one of the most beloved Italian breads. Pane di Matera is a bakery product for which only hard wheat semolina and sourdough are used. The characteristics to recognize the bread of Matera are the shapes, croissant or high bread, and a straw-yellow crumb. But besides bread, you’ll not miss other local specialities such as the Caciocavallo cheese or the Lucanica sausage.

The Trulli are famous worldwide for their beauty and unique characteristics and represent one of the most extraordinary examples of Italian folk architecture. They were built in a particular historical period when the construction of stable dwellings was highly taxed; the region's inhabitants thus boasted a great capacity to adapt and an exceptional cleverness in coming up with the Trulli, temporary houses built with the local stone. From precariousness to stability - the process of transformation and recovery and the deference to the originality of the work earned the Trulli of Alberobello their recognition as a World Heritage Site.

In Alberobello, the capital of the Trulli, each Trullo has a different shape and size. Unique constructions are sometimes combined in a complex of communicating houses, while others are built on two levels. Most feature a grey cone-shaped roof, ending with a sphere or hemisphere shape. The interior, arranged as a single chamber, comprises niches for a fireplace, bed and furniture. The structure assures excellent indoor climate control: cool in summer and warm in winter!

Matera

DAY 5 - PUGLIESE COOKING CLASS

The region's geographical location more characterizes Pugliese cuisine than any other Southern Italian gastronomic tradition. Over the centuries, Puglia has been a crossroads of peoples with very different cultures that have contaminated many aspects of everyday life, and therefore also food, with cooking methods, ingredients and customs, giving life to natural mixtures of flavours and smells that still delight the palates of locals and visitors. Pugliese cuisine is characterized above all by vegetables, the real foundation of the traditional diet of this area: turnip top, green cabbage, thistle, peppers, eggplants, artichokes; all legumes, from beans to chickpeas, peas and fava beans, fresh in spring and dry in winter. Fish is excellent, especially in areas close to the coast: bluefish dominate, but molluscs and crustaceans are also common. But the real king of Salentine cuisine is bread, made from unrefined wheat flour, with a particularly dark colour due to bran.

You will learn the most popular recipes of the Apulian tradition in a tasty “Pugliese” cooking class: here, you will have the opportunity to make Orecchiette and indulge in homemade Focaccia and bread, Tarallini, vegetables, cheeses and cured meats carefully chosen to ensure maximum flavour (to know more about Pugliese cuisine read “In Puglia, eat like a Pugliese” in our BLOG).

cookingclass

DAY 6 - LECCE

Lying on a plain at the foot of the Salento Plateau is Lecce - the "Florence of the South" - one of the most exciting cities in the region for its architecture, typical of the 17th century.

Of ancient origins, the city experienced two distinct periods of prosperity: the Roman era and the Kingdom of Naples. Under both, the construction of buildings, monuments and mansions increased heavily. These new structures were characterized by magnificent and rich ornamentations that earned this typical architecture the definition of “Leccese Baroque". The imaginative and meticulous sculpting work was facilitated by the fact that the local stone is flexible and easy to inlay. A visit to Lecce can begin with Piazza Duomo, once used as a fortress and today considered the most elegant "salon" in the city. The grandeur of the Duomo, the work of Zimbalo, Cino and Penna, the five-story-tall bell tower, the Palazzo Vescovile (Bishop's Palace), and the Palazzo del Seminario (Seminary) mark the perimeter of the square, one of the monumental works that best represent the magnificence of Lecce’s style.

Not far away, Piazza Sant'Oronzo narrates the city's entire history. The Roman period is visible in the ruins of the Amphitheatre that becomes the exceptional stage for theatrical performances in the summertime, and in part by the high Column - on which stands a bronze of St. Orontius, depicted in the act of blessing - erected in the 17th Century utilizing some of the Roman columns positioned on the Ancient Appian Way. Palazzo del Seggio, known as the "Seat," hosting important art exhibitions, and the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, with its interesting frescoes and works sculpted in wood, are the very symbols of the Apulian Renaissance.

Not to be missed is a visit to the Basilica di Santa Croce, where the inspiration of master masonry is visible in every part of the monumental façade that anticipates the beauty of its interior, a harmonious balance between the sobriety of the classical style and the splendour of Lecce's Baroque.

Lecce

DAY 7 - OTRANTO

Southern Puglia, also called “Salento”, is actually 'a region inside the region'. It is the area with most municipalities in Italy, almost all consisting of small or tiny villages, each jealous of its patronal feast, dialect and typical products.

Walking in the oldest part of Otranto, enclosed by the Aragonese walls, you will enjoy its millennial charm, with the white houses and the maze of streets paved with stones that converge towards the Romanesque Cathedral, characterized by the imposing Renaissance rose window. Inside, you will discover the precious mosaic floor made in the 12th century by the monk Pantaleone, depicting the Tree of Life with scenes that mix sacred and profane. Then, the Castle was built by Alfonso of Aragon at the end of the 15th century, in close relationship with the city walls, which is the background to art exhibitions and events.

Gallipoli, meaning “Beautiful City” in ancient Greek, sits on the Ionian coast like a mirage. Perched on an island of limestone origin, the old village is connected to the mainland and the new city by an arched bridge of the 20th century, recently flanked by another bridge towards the port. Today, the walls, bastions, and towers that once protected the city from invaders shelter it from storms, giving it the charm of the past. The Angiò fortress, surrounded almost entirely by the sea, is accessible from the old city: here, you will immerse yourself in history through towers, tunnels, corridors and majestic halls.

You will discover unique colours and scents in the countryside, a bit acrid and spicy. Follow the road from Otranto to Santa Maria di Leuca: here, the Mediterranean scrub meets the sea on a steep hilly coast of rare beauty for a once-in-a-lifetime scenery that will rest forever in your heart.

The tour is over, but the memories of a fantastic journey will accompany you for a lifetime!

Arrivederci for another tour with VITOR, Visit Italy on the Road.

Otranto
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