• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
• Complimentary arrival transfer on Day 2 and departure transfer on Day 11

Quality Dining

• Highlight Dinner of local cuisine at Lake Como (HD)
• 9 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 3 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)

11 Days ~ France ~ Monaco ~ Italy

Tour Pace
This tour is certainly easy paced with three nights each in Monte Carlo, the elegant spa town of Montecatini, and lakeside Como. There are half day excursions in each centre, but still leaving plenty of free time to explore.

DAY 1 – SAT – DEPART USA
Overnight flight to Nice.

DAY 2 – SUN – ARRIVE COTE D’AZUR
On arrival at Nice Airport there are complimentary transfers along the coast to the tour hotel in Monaco. The afternoon is yours to relax and settle in before joining your fellow passengers and Tour Director for a Welcome Drink.
Hotel: Le Meridien Beach Plaza. (D)

DAY 3 – MON – MONACO SIGHTSEEING
Explore Monaco which has been ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 13th century. Walk with your Tour Director through the Old Town to see the Royal Palace, where the Grimaldi family lives, the yacht-filled harbour and the Cathedral, which houses the tombs of Prince Rainier and Princess Grace. Drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit to see the Monte Carlo Casino. This afternoon perhaps take a scenic excursion along the Riviera? (BB)

DAY 4 – TUE – NICE & ST PAUL DE VENCE EXCURSION
The day is set aside to enjoy a taste of the jet-set. Visit Nice, one of the liveliest cities in France, with its host of attractions. Take a stroll in the shady gardens, relax on the beach or browse in the exclusive boutiques. Visitthe medieval town of St Paul de Vence, perched high on a hill top. This was a source of inspirationfor artists such as Chagall, Matisse and Cezanne, and you will understand why as you wanderthrough the narrow cobbled streets and enjoy the panoramic views over Provence. (BB)

DAY 5 – WED – MONACO – MONTECATINI
Cross into Italy and drive along the ‘Flower Riviera’, following the autostrada through tunnels and bridges. Stop in the town of Pisa, once one ofthe most important ports on the Mediterranean. Its wealthy merchants dedicated some of their wealth to build a fine cathedral and baptistery, but today it is the belltower which attracts most noticeby leaning four metres from the perpendicular. Tonight, stay in Italy’s most fashionable thermal spatown of Montecatini Terme.
Hotel: Grand Hotel Tamerici & Principe. (BB,D)

DAY 6 – THU – FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING
A short drive leads you to Florence, cradle of the Renaissance. See the lofty Cathedral and baptistery, Giotto’s 14th century Campanile (said to be the most beautiful bell-tower in the world), the ‘Gates of Paradise’, Signoria Square with its open-air gallery of Renaissance sculpture, and visit one of the great art galleries to see Michelangelo’s masterpiece, the Statue of David. In the afternoon, you may wish to discover more of the art treasures housed in the many museums and galleries or explore more of this fascinating city before returning to the hotel. Consider joining a Tuscan dinner party at night. (BB)

DAY 7 – FRI – LUCCA EXCURSION
A short drive leads to the delightful medieval townof Lucca, its churches, squares and palaces perfectly preserved within its encircling ramparts. Seethe birthplace of Puccini, who wrote the tragic opera ‘La Boheme’, and the bronze statue dedicated to him. After time to explore, return to Montecatini. During the afternoon, maybe opt for an excursion to the hilltop town of San Gimignano, renowned for its many tall fortress towers, or pamper yourself with a massage and beauty treatments at one of the resort’s health spas? (BB)

DAY 8 – SAT – MONTECATINI – LAKE COMO
Drive northwards this morning through the dramatic scenery of the Appenine mountains to the fertile plains in the Po valley. Visit Milan, the commercial capital of northern Italy, to see the magnificent Gothic cathedral and the famous La Scala opera house. From here, continue to the spectacular Italian Lake District and your hotel in a lakeside resort overlooking spectacular Lake Como.
Hotel: Grand Cadenabbia. (BB,D)

DAY 9 – SUN – COMO & LUGANO EXCURSION
Today your Tour Director will show you the resort of Como, dominated by its marble cathedral set in the narrow streets of the old town. Later, cross into Switzerland to fashionable Lugano, beautifully located on the shores of its lake amid spectacular mountains. Time here to stroll in the gardens and browse in the exclusive shops with the chance to buy delicious Swiss chocolate or even that exclusive Swiss watch! (BB)

DAY 10 – MON – LAKE COMO AT LEISURE
Today is free to relax and enjoy enchanting Lake Como. Maybe take the ferry across the lake to Bellagio and see why George Clooney fell in love with this part of Italy? A visit to nearby Villa Carlotta with its beautiful terraced gardens is a must! Tonight, join your Tour Director for a last night celebration Highlight Dinner at a local restaurant. (BB,HD)

DAY 11 – TUE – RETURN TO USA
The tour ends after breakfast with complimentary transfers from the hotel to Milan’s Malpensa Airport. (BB)

• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
• Complimentary arrival transfer on Day 2 and departure transfer on Day 9

Quality Dining

• Highlight Dinner of local cuisine with entertainment in Rome (HD)
• 7 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 2 three-course table d’hôte Dinners,or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)

9 Days ~ Italy

Tour Pace
This is an evenly paced tour with two-night stays in Rome, Montecatini and Venice, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing and people-watching from the comfort of sidewalk cafés. The driving days are of a reasonable length with frequent stops for rest and photo opportunities.

DAY 1 – FRI – DEPART USA
Overnight flight to Rome.

DAY 2 – SAT – ROME AT LEISURE
Welcome to Italy! On arrival at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your tour hotel. Then this beautiful and historic city is yours to discover at leisure: stroll down the Via Veneto or perhaps spend some time wandering through the vast parklands of the Villa Borghese. Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow passengers for a Welcome Drink.
Hotel: Sheraton.

DAY 3 – SUN – ROME – TUSCANY
Drive northwards, following the valley of the Tiber, to Perugia, which in medieval times housed one of the great Italian schools of painting. Visit the Piazza 4 Novembre, one of the grandest squares in Italy, to see the Great Fountain, Gothic Cathedral and splendid Priors’ Palace before seeing the nearby Collegio del Cambio. Take a delightful drive through the Tuscan olive groves to Florence and explore the riches of the Renaissance. With a local guide, visit the Academy Museum to see Michelangelo’s original ‘Statue of David’. See the marble clad Cathedral and Baptistery too, where Ghiberti’s ‘Gates of Paradise’ have been recreated in all their glory. Next stop is Signoria Square, political heart of the city and still an open air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Finally, visit the church of Santa Croce to see the tombs of Galileo and Michelangelo. Afterwards, make your way to your hotel in Montecatini.
Hotel: Grand Hotel Nizza & Suisse. (BB,D)

DAY 4 – MON – FLORENCE EXCURSION
Drive back to Florence to enjoy a demonstration of traditional Florentine leatherwork. The rest of the day is yours to shop, explore or continue sightseeing at your own pace. Consider taking an optional excursion to the leaning tower of Pisa before sampling some fine Florentine cuisine and Chianti wine. (BB)

DAY 5 – TUE – TUSCANY – VENICE
Cross the Apennine Mountains, passing Bologna and the flood plains of the River Po for a scenic drive along the famous Brenta Riviera. See the magnificent classical villas that were once the summer residences of the Venetian nobility. The route takes you along the canal through Strà, Dolo and Mira to magical Venice, where the city seems to float on the lagoon. Stay on the Lido, one of the most fashionable resorts on the Adriatic.
Hotel: Le Boulevard. (BB,D)

DAY 6 – WED – VENICE SIGHTSEEING
Appreciate the splendor of Venice as you cruise by the Biennale Park and Palladio’s San Giorgio Maggiore to St Mark’s Square. Your Tour Director will explain the glorious history of ‘La Serenissima’, once one of the greatest trading centres of the world which imported goods from the Orient – this wealth and power is echoed by the riches of St Mark’s Basilica. See the Doges’ Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs, then visit one of the glass showrooms for a demonstration of traditional craftsmanship, unchanged for centuries. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere as you cruise along the Venetian canals by gondola. There is time to explore or browse through the shops on the Rialto Bridge in the afternoon. Don’t miss the chance to try the delicious seafood, freshly caught in the lagoon. (BB)

DAY 7 – THU – VENICE – ROME
Take the spectacular highway over the wild Apennines, continuing southwards to reach the valley of the River Tiber, its course leading back to Rome. In the evening, why not dine to your favorite Italian songs from some of the best voices in Italy? 
Hotel: Cicerone. (BB)

DAY 8 – FRI – ROME SIGHTSEEING
A local guide introduces the grandeur of the city: drive to the independent Vatican State, the richest community in the world. Visit the superb Vatican Museums, treasure house of the Catholic faith with vast collections of ancient and Renaissance art gathered by Popes over the ages. Continue into the Sistine Chapel, a glorious masterpiece of Michelangelo’s fresco skills. Tour St Peter’s Basilica to see another of Michelangelo’s early works, the Pieta, as well as the splendid dome completed after his death. Hear tales of the glory of ancient Rome as you cross the River Tiber to visit the Colosseum and see the Forum. The afternoon is free to enjoy Rome at your own pace. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a last night celebration Highlight Dinner of pasta, wine and music. (BB,HD)

DAY 9 – SAT – RETURN TO USA
Bid farewell to the glories of Italy as you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (BB)

• Escorted by a professional Tour DirectorLuxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Return ferry crossing Sicily/Malta by catamaran
• Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
• Complimentary arrival transfer on Day 2 and departure transfer on Day 12

Quality Dining

• Highlight Dinner of Mediterranean cuisine in Valletta (HD)
• 10 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 6 three-course table d’hôte Dinners,or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)

12 Days ~ Sicily ~ Malta

Tour Pace
This tour operates at a comfortable pace. There are two early starts, which are necessary to catch the ferries. However, these are offset by the short driving distances in Sicily, the relaxing three nights on Malta, and two night stays in Palermo and Giardini Naxos.

DAY 1 – THU – DEPART USA
Overnight flight to Catania.

DAY 2 – FRI – ARRIVE CATANIA – GIARDINI NAXOS
Welcome to Sicily! On arrival there are complimentary transfers to your hotel in Giardini Naxos. Tonight, join your Tour Director for a Welcome Drink, before enjoying dinner "Sicilian style" at the hotel.
Hotel: Sant Alphio Garden. (D)

DAY 3 – SAT – SIGHTSEEING IN TAORMINA
Only a mere 10 minutes away is the elegant cliff-top town of Taormina. Founded in 400 BC, Taormina is beautifully located overlooking the Ionian sea and facing the snowy peak of Mount Etna. Visit the Greek Theatre (3rd Century B.C.), the glorious sub-tropical terraced gardens, then stroll along elegant Corso Umberto to Piazza 9 Aprile for splendid panoramic views across the bay to the Ionian Sea. Later return to the beautiful beaches and crystal clear waters of Giardini Naxos. (BB)

DAY 4 – SUN – TAORMINA – PALERMO
Cross over to the northern side of the island drive along the coast to the small fishing town of Cefalu, hemmed between the sea and a rocky promontory. Visit the impressive cathedral, which was erected to fulfil a vow made by the Norman King Roger II before continuing to the Sicilian capital of Palermo.
Hotel: Grand Albergo Sole. (BB,D)

DAY 5 – MON – PALERMO SIGHTSEEING
Sightseeing with a local guide includes a visit to the unusual Church of St John of the Hermits and nearby Palace of the Normans, with it's Palatine Chapel and dazzling mosaics. You also see the spectacular fountain in the Piazza Pretoria and the delightful Piazza Bellini - a square featuring both Moorish and Norman styles. Later drive to the town of Monreal, to visit the finely decorated cathedral and enjoy views over the fertile plain known as the Conca d’Oro (Golden Conch Shell). (BB)

DAY 6 – TUE – PALERMO – AGRIGENTO
Head west to the ancient walled city of Erice, with it’s labyrinth of quiet alleyways. Enjoy sea views from the gardens next to the Castle of Venus – on a clear day you see the Tunisian coast! Continue to Agrigento, "man's finest town" according to the Greek poet Pindar. Spend the remainder of the day exploring Agrigento's Valley of the Temples, considered the finest Greek sanctuary in Sicily. Especially impressive are the massive Temple of Concordia and cliff-top Temple of Juno overlooking the sea.
Hotel: Kaos. (BB,D)

DAY 7 – WED – AGRIGENTO – RAGUSA
Investigate the heart of Sicily today. Stop in the fortress town of Enna, nicknamed the ‘Belvedere of Sicily’. Then continue to the grey houses of Piazza Armerina and nearby Roman Villa of Casale. This immense 3rd or 4th century building is noted for its famous mosaics, which cover almost the entire floor space. Cupids playing with dolphins, wild animals and even bikini clad girls are all depicted in the picturesque scenes. Stay tonight in the tranquil regional capital of Ragusa, only steps from the Ibla (old Baroque area).
Hotel: Mediterraneo. (BB,D)

DAY 8 – THU – RAGUSA – MALTA (ST JULIANS)
Drive to the port of Pollazzo for the 90 minute ferry crossing to Valletta on the island of Malta. Your tour starts with a guided walk to the Upper Barracca Gardens boasting 180 degree views of the Grand Harbor and the famed 3 cities. Continue along the narrow streets to the Co-Cathedral of St. John before proceeding to the Grand Master's Palace and Armoury. Now Malta's history comes to life as you view the ‘Malta Experience’. Sit back and enjoy the coming of the Romans and Arabs, and the rule of the Knights as it all unfolds on the giant screen. Your hotel is centrally located in Malta’s prime coastal resort, just seven kilometres from the historic capital.
Hotel: InterContinental. (BB,D)

DAY 9 – FRI – HISTORIC MALTA EXCURSION
This morning visit Vittoriosa which played a vital role in the great Siege of Malta in 1565. Proceed to the southern fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Visit the Tarxien Temples and the prehistoric caves of Ghar Dalam, where the earliest inhabitants of this island resided. Return to the hotel where the remainder of the day is at leisure. Tonight enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at its best with a Highlight Dinner at a local restaurant. (BB,HD)

DAY 10 – SAT – MALTA AT LEISURE
Today is completely free to relax by the pool, or hit the beach. Only a stones throw away are the shops, restaurants and nightclubs of St. Julian’s. Or perhaps take an optional excursion to explore other parts of the island? (BB)

DAY 11 – SUN – MALTA – CATANIA
Transfer back to the Sicilian mainland and drive to the town of Syracuse, founded by Corinthians eight centuries before Christ. Sightseeing with a guide takes you to the superb Greek theatre, carved out of solid rock overlooking the sea and one of the largest of the ancient world. You also visit the Paradise Quarry, from which the city's building materials came, and its unusual 'Ear of Denis' - a grotto in the shape of an earlobe, with an unusual echo. Then time to explore the Old City, a maze of narrow streets lined with palaces, sprawling over the island of Ortygia. It was here that the famous geometrician Archimedes ran naked through the streets, crying 'Eureka'! Return to Cantania tonight where dinner is included at the hotel.
Hotel: UNA Palace. (BB,D)

DAY 12 – MON – RETURN TO USA
After breakfast you are transferred to the airport for your return flights home. (BB)

• Escorted by a professional Tour DirectorLuxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
• Complimentary arrival transfer on Day 2 and departure transfer on Day 11

Quality Dining

• Highlight Dinner of local cuisine with entertainment in Rome (HD)
• 9 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 4 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)

11 Days ~ Italy

Tour Pace
This tour has a well balanced pace with two-night stays in three of the five centres – Rome, Tuscany and Sorrento – and overnight stays in Assisi and Venice. The driving days are of a comfortable length with several stops en route for refreshments and photo opportunities.

DAY 1 – DEPART USA
Overnight flight to Rome.

DAY 2 – ROME AT LEISURE
Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with Classical antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and baroque churches. On arrival at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport, there are complimentary transfers to your tour hotel, scenically located in beautiful gardens. After checking in, there’s time at leisure to explore or relax. Spend time in the boutiques of the Via del Corso or the elegant designer stores of the Via Condotti. As night falls, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Drink.
Hotel: Crowne Plaza St Peters.

DAY 3 – ROME SIGHTSEEING
Enjoy an in-depth sightseeing tour with a local guide who will take you inside the Vatican Museums to gaze upon the treasures of the Popes. Also see Michelangelo’s famous ceiling inside the Sistine Chapel, before touring St Peter’s Basilica to wonder at another of his works, the emotive ‘Pieta’. Then cross the Tiber to visit the Colosseum, scene of many gladiatorial contests. After seeing the Roman Forum, the rest of the day is yours to relax and sightsee or shop. (BB)

DAY 4 – ROME – ASSISI
Leave Rome and follow the valley of the River Tiber to the hills of Umbria, which form part of the Apennines. Your destination is the peaceful hill-top town of Assisi, the home of St Francis. Visit the Basilica of St Mary of the Angels, built on the site of the original Porziuncule Chapel foundations, then continue up Mount Subasio to the town and visit the Basilica of St Francis with its magnificent frescoes by the artist Giotto.
Hotel: Subasio. (BB,D)

DAY 5 – ASSISI – VENICE
A pleasant drive leads to the romantic city of Venice, and what better way to see it than from a private launch? Cruise past Palladian churches and 13th century palaces to St Mark’s square. See the Doges’ Palace, connected to the prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. It was from here that Casanova made his daring escape. Now admire the mosaics of the Basilica and watch one of the few remaining masters blow molten glass into a unique creation at a Venetian glass-blowing factory. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere as you cruise along the Venetian canals by gondola.
Hotel: Quattro Fontane/Continental/Le Boulevard/Principe/Grand Albergo Ausonia. (BB,D)

DAY 6 – VENICE – TUSCANY
Leave magical Venice, and drive along the scenic Brenta Canal with its magnificent Palladian villas, once the summer residences of Venetian nobility. Cross the plain of the Po River and traverse the Apennines, the hilly backbone of Italy, to reach the Arno valley. Follow the river westwards to the coastal town of Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower, where elaborate steps have been taken to prevent this landmark from falling over. Time also to admire the marble cathedral and Baptistery before continuing to the Tuscan spa resort of Montecatini for a two-night stay.
Hotel: Francia & Quirinale. (BB)

DAY 7 – FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING
Drive to the Tuscan capital, Florence, and join a local guide for a walking tour and highlight visit to the Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo’s monumental figure of David. Continue to the multi-colored marble Cathedral of Santa Maria dei Fiore to see Giotto’s belltower and ‘Gates of Paradise’ before visiting the Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence. The area around Santa Croce Basilica is famous for the quality of its luxury goods; see a demonstration of leatherwork in the very place this craft first established itself. Then, there’s free time to shop for Florence’s finest or continue sightseeing. (BB,D)

DAY 8 – TUSCANY – SORRENTO
Take the smooth motorway south through the rich volcanic hills of Frascati to Cassino and visit the Commonwealth Cemetery, overlooked by the austere monastery of Montecassino – headquarters of the Benedictine order. Take the clifftop road to your hotel in the picturesque resort of Sorrento.
Hotel: La Pace. (BB)

DAY 9 – ISLE OF CAPRI EXCURSION
Spend the morning being shown the art of ‘intarsio’ or marquetry wood inlaying before cruising to the sun-drenched island of dreams, Capri – a rock rising from the Mediterranean. Take the funicular train up to the main village (Capri Town), then spend time exploring the narrow alleyways, browse in the exclusive boutiques and enjoy the fabulous views over the Mediterranean Sea. Join an optional tour to Anacapri to visit Villa San Michele before returning to your hotel for some time to relax. (BB,D)

DAY 10 – SORRENTO – ROME
Only a short drive from the hotel lies Pompeii, the opulent Roman town which was preserved by layers of ash from the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD79. A walking tour through the varied and extensive excavations with a local guide brings the ancient, ill-fated city to life. Afterwards, the smooth motorway leads back to the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome. Tonight, join your fellow passengers for a last night celebration Highlight Dinner of local cuisine, complete with wine and entertainment.
Hotel: Melia Aurelia Antica/Marriott Park/Ritz/Sheraton. (BB,HD)

DAY 11 – RETURN TO USA
Arrivederci Roma! The tour ends with transfers to Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport. (BB)