Itinerary

1. Arrive Rome / Todi
Tour departs: 9:30 AM from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino. Travel from Rome through Lazio and Umbria to the town of Orvieto; have lunch at a trattoria, and see one of Italy’s greatest cathedrals. The next two nights are spent in the medieval hill town of Todi, where you’ll stay at the only hotel in the center of town. Experience the real Italy, where everything revolves around the piazza and life unfolds at a lovely pace. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. Meals LD

2. Assisi / Umbria / Todi
Visit Basilica di San Francesco in medieval Assisi; a local expert shares insights about its 13th- and 14th-century frescoes on a guided tour. Attend a wine tasting at the osteria of a famed winery before you return to Todi to explore the pleasures of small-town Italian life. Meals B

3. Siena / Tuscany / Florence
See the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany en route to Siena, where you’ll tour the ornately decorated Duomo and see the Piazza del Campo – twice a year, the running of the Palio occurs here. Continue on to Florence for a two-night stay. Join us for a visit to the renowned Galleria dell’Accademia, home of Michelangelo’s David, and enjoy a lecture this evening by a local art historian. Meals BD

4. Renaissance Treasures of Florence
A guided walking tour of landmark sites in Florence precedes a tour of the Uffizi Gallery with a local expert; see some of the world’s greatest art masterpieces. The rest of the day is free to explore on your own. Meals B

5. Eurostar to Rome
Travel first class by high-speed Eurostar train to Rome. A walking tour of Old Rome, with a local guide, shows you sites such as Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps, the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the Pantheon. Topped off by a gelato (Italian ice cream), it’s a perfect day! Meals BL

6. Guided Tour of the Vatican
Go inside the Vatican Museums on a guided tour that takes you to the Candelabra Gallery, the Gallery of Maps and the Tapestries. A highlight is a visit to the Sistine Chapel for a look at Michelangelo’s famous ceiling! Meals B

7. Rome as You Please
Sightseeing includes the Roman Forum (from above) and visits to the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square; the rest of the day is free. Join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner. Meals BD

8. Journey Home
Tour ends: 7:30 AM at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino. Persons who are departing at other times should secure their own transportation to the airport; allow a minimum of 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.
 

Umbria ~ Orvieto ~ Todi ~ Assisi ~ Siena ~ Florence ~ Rome
Visit the Vatican
A guided visit to the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel includes the inspirational treasures of the Candelabra Gallery, the Map Gallery and the Tapestries.

Walking Tour of Old Rome
Through the eyes of a local guide, discover Old Rome on a walking tour; places you will see include the Trevi Fountain, the Spanish Steps and the Pantheon.

Guided Tour of the Uffizi Gallery
An art historian introduces you to Renaissance art and the city of Florence, followed by a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery that details the paintings and the history of one of the world’s greatest art museums.
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Rome
Tour departs: 10:00 AM from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino. Travel through the beautiful Campania countryside to the Amalfi Coast. Your home for the next two nights is close to the picturesque town of Positano, nestled on steep cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. Meals LD

2. Amalfi Drive / Positano / Ravello
A drive along the spectacular Amalfi Coast today, one of Europe’s most beautiful shorelines, includes views of lush gardens and olive-green slopes, hovering over the clear sea below. Explore Amalfi and visit the Cathedral of St. Andrew, then travel to Ravello for a visit to exquisite Villa Rufolo. Lunch today is at a local restaurant where you’ll get a real taste of Italy – and your cheeks pinched by the owner! The rest of the day is free at your hotel. Meals BL

3. Pompeii / Isle of Capri
Take a guided visit through the remains of the ancient city of Pompeii, frozen in time from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79, then travel by jet boat to the Isle of Capri. Upon arrival, you’ll feel like a celebrity as you’re whisked away by convertible taxi to one of the most celebrated hotels in Europe. Spend two nights on Capri, enjoying the pleasures of a less-crowded island after the last ferry carrying the day-trippers departs. Your hotel is set in the exclusive "Via Camerelle" in the heart of Capri, a few steps from the Piazzetta. Meals BLD

4. Isle of Capri
Touring today is by convertible car, first to Anacapri and beautiful Villa San Michele, built atop the ruins of Capri’s Roman palaces and villas. Next up is a visit to a private villa overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea where you’ll attend a lecture on contemporary Italian society. The rest of the day is free to experience Capri as you like. Meals BD

5. Naples / Archaeological Museum
A sightseeing tour of Naples today shows you Posillipo, Santa Lucia, magnificent Piazza del Plebiscito, Teatro San Carlo, and Castel Nuovo. A guided visit to the Museo Archeologico Nazionale features an impressive collection of Pompeii artifacts. This afternoon, travel first class on the high-speed TAV train to Rome. Meals BL

6. Explore Rome
Guided sightseeing is balanced with time at leisure today – see Piazza Venezia, Trajan’s Forum, the Imperial Palaces, the Circus Maximus, and the Roman Forum. Visit San Pietro in Vincoli and the Colosseum. Meals B

7. Vatican / Rome at Leisure
Go inside the Vatican Museums on a guided tour. Visit the Sistine Chapel, and explore St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square. Join us for a farewell dinner. Meals BD

8. Journey Home
Tour ends: 7:30 AM at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino. Persons departing at other times should secure their own transportation to the airport. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.
 

Positano ~ Ravello ~ Pompeii ~ Anacapri ~ Naples ~ Vatican City
Tauck’s Yellow Roads
Drive along the incomparable Amalfi Coast where you’ll explore a colorful world of turquoise sea, purple bougainvillea, vine-covered hills, lemon and olive trees – and elegant villas ranging from white to terra cotta to pink.

Lecture at a Private Villa
At a private villa on Capri, attend a lecture by a noted professor on contemporary Italian society.

Convertible Car Sightseeing, Capri
Feel like a jetsetter when convertible cars provide most of the sightseeing on the island of Capri, from arrival by ferry to your visit to Anacapri.
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Rome / Siena
Tour departs: 10:00 AM from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino. Join your fellow travelers for a drive on scenic country roads to Siena, stopping for lunch and a walking tour in the tiny Renaissance city of Pienza. Arrive late afternoon at your grand hotel, ideally located in the heart of Siena, and enjoy a welcome reception and dinner tonight. Meals LD

2. The Grandeur of Siena
Once rivaling Florence in magnificent cultural riches, hilltop Siena is still a treasure to behold. Start your day with a guided walking tour along medieval city streets, rewarded by mesmerizing views at every turn. Visit historic Piazza del Campo and the spectacular Duomo, one of Italy’s greatest cathedrals. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy as you wish; explore the city’s maze of narrow medieval streets, adorned with flags, plaques and symbolic animal carvings, or relax in a local café. Meals B

3. San Gimignano / Florence
Look for the thirteen medieval towers that dominate the skyline as you journey to 12th-century San Gimignano for a guided tour and lunch, followed by a wine tasting at a local vineyard. Continue on to Florence for a three-night stay and experience a dine-around tonight. Meals BD

4. Discover the Art of Florence
Today’s guided tour of the Galleria dell’Accademia is enhanced by the learned expertise of a noted art historian who shares insights about Europe’s first art school during a lecture. Seeing Michelangelo’s most important works inside, including the famous statue of David, makes this an experience to remember! Venture into the bustling food markets with our local guide, then spend the rest of the day exploring on your own. Meals B

5. Art Treasures of the Uffizi Gallery
Botticelli, Bellini, Michelangelo, Raphael, da Vinci, Rembrandt and Titian are just a few of the artists whose work graces the halls of the Uffizi, renowned for showcasing some of the greatest art of the Renaissance. See them on a guided tour this morning. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Meals B

6. Cortona / Cooking Class
Travel into the heart of Italy for a three-night stay in Perugia. En route, stop in the beautiful Etruscan city of Cortona, featured in the movie Under the Tuscan Sun; a walking tour includes a visit to the Museo Diocesano, housing the artist Fra Angelico’s famous painting, Annunciation. A tantalizing interactive Tuscan cooking demonstration at a culinary school located in a 15th-century house entices with a freshly prepared lunch. Your luxury accommodations for the next three nights are delightfully ensconced atop a hill in Perugia, overlooking the scenic Umbrian valley below. Meals BL

7. Perugia, Capital of Umbria
A town rife with Gothic palaces, Perugia is thought to have been inhabited since prehistoric times. Its history includes Etruscan and Roman rule – and it was once under the direct control of the Papal State. Discover its ancient sights on a guided walking tour with a local guide. The town is rich with medieval influences and architectural treasures, from the 15th-century Duomo to the Oratorio di San Bernardino. Perugia is also well-known for its mouth-watering chocolate, Baci Perugina; learn the closely guarded secrets of making this delectable treat at a chocolate-making demonstration this afternoon, but don’t spoil your appetite for your candlelight dinner at La Taverna – this popular restaurant is justly renowned for its romantic ambiance and delicious desserts! Meals BD

8. Assisi and Perugia
The medieval hilltop town of Assisi is heir to the legacy of St. Francis, who is buried in its most famous church, the Basilica di San Francesco. Pilgrims from around the world visit this great Christian shrine each year to pay homage to this humble saint and to see the colorful frescoes depicting his life. Tour the Basilica and enjoy free time to explore the town on your own; fountain-splashed piazzas and lovely views provide a picturesque setting for the many Romanesque churches found here. Return to Perugia for an afternoon at leisure and join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner. Meals BD

9. Journey Home
Tour ends: 7:30 AM at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino. Persons who are departing on flights scheduled before 12:00 noon will have to depart Perugia very early (pre-dawn hours) to transfer to Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino, 2 1/2 hours away. For those departing on later flights after 12:00 noon, Tauck’s included transfer will depart the Hotel Brufani Palace in Perugia at 8:00 AM, arriving at Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino at 10:30 AM. Persons departing at other times should secure their own transportation. Meals B

Dates & Prices

Select dates offer Small Group Departure with no more than 26 Tauck guests, specially priced from $3890 per person double; inquire at time of booking.

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the United States (subject to availability).

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.
 

Orvieto ~ Siena ~ San Gimignano ~ Cortona ~ Perugia ~ Assisi
Tauck’s Yellow Roads
A true Yellow Roads experience, enjoy the lush Umbria and Tuscany countryside, where scenic beauty lies around every bend in the road.

Chocolate Making in Perugia
Learn the centuries-old secrets of a skilled chocolatier during a chocolate making demonstration in Perugia.

Wine Tasting in Tuscany
Visit one of Tuscany’s famed local vineyards for an opportunity to sample their products at a wine tasting.

Cooking Class in Cortona
Attend a Tuscan cooking demonstration and have lunch at a culinary school in a historic 15th-century house.
 

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to the pleasures of the Italian Lakes
Depart 10:00 AM from Milan's Malpensa Airport. Travel Italy Tauck style – you'll see the best of Italy, from great cities to countryside villages and towns that are off-the-beaten track! Begin by heading through the beautiful northern Italy countryside from Milan to Lugano, Switzerland, set on the edge of a bejeweled lake with views of the city and the not-too-distant Alps. Enjoy free time to explore the waterfront promenade, then meet fellow traveling companions at a welcome cocktail reception and dinner. Meals: Lunch, dinner

Day 2: Villa delights and a cruise on Lake Como
Travel to Tremezzo to visit Villa Carlotta, built in the 18th century, and noted for garden landscaping and sculpture. Admire the dramatic views of the Alps silhouetting the famous villas along the shores of Lake Como on a private boat cruise. Arrive in picturesque Bellagio, and enjoy free time to explore the town as you please. Another private boat cruise takes you past elegant villas to Como, followed by a return to Lugano where the evening is free. Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Travel Italy from the fabulous lakes to Venice
Journey to Venice, designed along an intricate system of canals within a lagoon. After lunch, head to St. Mark’s Square, the heart of Venice, with a local guide. Visit Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square) and St. Mark’s Basilica, one of the greatest buildings in Europe with its exquisite mosaics and detailed carvings. See the Doges’ Palace, a pink marble Gothic masterpiece containing a precious art collection. A serenade aboard a gondola cruise through the canals, and dinner at a popular Venetian restaurant, are the perfect endings to a perfect day. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 4: Explore Venice as you please
Spend the day exploring the museums and sites that interest you most in Venice, a highlight as you travel Italy with Tauck. Perhaps tour the Galleria dell'Accademia or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, or take a boat ride to islands in the lagoon.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Statue of David in Florence
Travel Italy by rail today to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Get an introduction to the city’s architectural landmarks and great artists from a local art historian prior to a walking tour of the city – a special touch when you travel Italy with Tauck. You'll be totally prepared for your visit to Galleria dell’Accademia, where you're certain to marvel at Michelangelo’s marble statue of David standing nearly 17 feet tall. View Lorenzo Ghiberti’s bronze doors with detailed panels at the Baptistry, part of the Duomo of Santa Maria del Fiori complex. The historical center of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

Day 6: Masterpieces of the Uffizi
Gaze at some of the world’s greatest art masterpieces at the extraordinary Uffizi Gallery, Italy’s largest art museum, on a guided tour with a local expert. Admire works by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Sandro Botticelli, and more. Following your tour, you can spend as much time as you like looking at the art. During your free afternoon you can explore as you please; perhaps you may want to visit the Pitti Palace, the Medici Chapels or stroll across the Ponte Vecchio to the lovely Boboli Gardens. Meals: Breakfast

Day 7: Vineyards and Rome – highlights when you travel Italy
Travel Italy through landscapes featuring olive groves, cypress trees, and vineyards, including the region that produces Chianti wine. Stop in the medieval hill town of Siena, and wander through the narrow streets. See the Piazza del Campo where the Palio bareback horse race is held. Visit the Duomo, one of Italy’s great cathedrals, with scenes inlaid in the marble floors and sculpture by Michelangelo. Continue through scenic Tuscany to Rome, the Eternal City that was the center of the once-powerful Roman Empire. Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 8: Visit the Vatican
Explore the rich treasures of the Vatican, starting at the Vatican Museums. In the Sistine Chapel, view Michelangelo’s masterpieces, and admire the art and architecture of St. Peter’s Basilica. Pursue your own special interests in Rome during the afternoon.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9: A day in Imperial Rome
Get an insider’s view of Rome from a local guide. You'll avoid long lines with pre-arranged reservations at the Colosseum, opened in AD 80 for gladiator combat. Choose among many historic sights and museums for your free afternoon. Share your favorite experiences at the farewell cocktail party and dinner, a special finale when you travel Italy with Tauck. Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 10: Arrivederci Rome
Your journey comes to an end at 7:30 AM at Rome's Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino. If you are departing at other times, you must secure your own transportation to the airport. Meals: Breakfast

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional.

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.
 

PRIVATE BOAT ON LAKE COMO
Enjoy a private boat ride across beautiful Lake Como to Bellagio; view some of Italy’s most famous and elegant lakeside villas.

GONDOLA SERENADE
Glide through the canals of Venice aboard a gondola, as you are serenaded with Santa Lucia and other traditional Italian songs by local musicians.

RESERVATIONS AT MUST-SEE SIGHTS
Confirmed reservations at the Doges’ Palace in Venice, Uffizi Gallery and Galleria dell’Accademia in Florence, the Vatican and Rome’s Colosseum mean no waiting in long lines – an advantage of traveling with Tauck.
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Venice
Tour begins: 6:00 PM, The Westin Excelsior, Venice Lido Resort, Venice, Italy. Transfers from Venice’s Marco Polo Airport are included to The Westin Excelsior, Venice Lido Resort. Your resort is located on ‘Lido di Venezia’ Island overlooking a private beach. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner.
The Westin Excelsior, Venice Lido Resort ~ Meals D

2. Experience the Pleasures of Venice
With the expert eyes of a local guide, discover the treasures of Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square), the center of Venetian life. Visit dramatic St. Mark’s Basilica, and marvel at the sumptuous Doges’ Palace. Explore Venice at your leisure this afternoon.
The Westin Excelsior, Venice Lido Resort ~ Meals B

3. Venetian Islands / Embark Le Levant
Visit the picturesque islands of the Venetian Lagoon. Explore Murano, famous for glass production since the 10th century, and discover lively Burano, renowned for lacemaking and brightly colored houses. This afternoon, board your private yacht Le Levant for welcome cocktails, followed by dinner at sea.
Aboard Le Levant ~ Meals BD

4. Historic Croatia - Sibenik / Split
Le Levant docks this morning in Sibenik, Croatia, a city ruled through time by the Hungarian-Croats, Venetians, French, and Austrians. After visiting Sibenik’s Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drive south along the Adriatic coast. Arrive in Split and take a walking tour through Diocletian’s Palace, another World Heritage Site.
Aboard Le Levant ~ Meals BLD

5. The Island of Korcula
Journey today to the beautiful Adriatic island of Korcula, with its lush vineyards, olive trees, and lovely medieval town. According to some historical accounts, this ancient walled city was the childhood home of famed explorer Marco Polo. A walking tour of Korcula precedes a private performance of Moreska folklore.
Aboard Le Levant ~ Meals BLD

6. Montenegro – Kotor
Le Levant’s entrance into Montenegro’s Bay of Kotor, one of the few fjords in the region, is memorable. With roots dating back to the site of a 3rd-century Roman military outpost, the fortress city of Kotor was a Byzantine stronghold in the 6th century; a walking tour includes the Naval Museum. Return to Le Levant and set sail for the extraordinary port of Dubrovnik.
Aboard Le Levant ~ Meals BLD

7. Dubrovnik, Gem of the Adriatic
Dubrovnik’s well-preserved 15th-century old town was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site; sightseeing includes visits to the historic main square, the Dominican Monastery, the Rector’s Palace, and Dubrovnik Synagogue. The rest of the day is spent in port; there’s lots to explore!
Aboard Le Levant ~ Meals BLD

8. Treasures of Hvar
A sightseeing tour of the town of Hvar includes a visit to the Cathedral of St. Stephen. Enjoy expansive views from Spanjol Fortress, located high above the town, before a walking tour of Stari Grad. The Dalmatian Coast produces some exceptional wine – enjoy a wine tasting before returning to Hvar Town for the rest of the day.
Aboard Le Levant ~ Meals BLD

9. Istria / Pula, Croatia
A special day awaits exploring the Istrian peninsula. A visit to the town of Pula includes the Roman Amphitheatre, believed to be the best preserved in the world. Return to the ship after lunch, and join us tonight for a farewell reception and dinner.
Aboard Le Levant ~ Meals BLD

10. Journey Home
Tour ends: Venice. A transfer from Le Levant to Marco Polo Airport is included; allow a minimum of 21/2 hours for check-in. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Land / Cruise Price includes private Tauck shore excursions, cruise fare, port charges, wine with dinner aboard Le Levant, and gratuities to ship staff and Tauck Directors.

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Cruise Protection Plan.
 

7-Night Cruise on Le Levant ~ Venice ~ Split ~ Hvar ~ Dubrovnik ~ Korcula

• An exclusive cruise aboard Le Levant with only 90 Tauck guests
• Private Tauck Shore Excursions in every port and 2 days sightseeing on land – $620 Value!
• In-depth visits to five UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Venice, Dubrovnik, Sibenik’s Cathedral, the walled city of Kotor, and Diocletian’s Palace in Split
• Private Moreska folkloric entertainment and a wine tasting in Croatia
• Wine with dinner aboard Le Levant
• All gratuities to Tauck Directors and cruise ship staff
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Malta
Tour begins: 6:00 PM, Le Méridien Phoenicia, Valletta, Malta. A transfer is included upon arrival from Malta International Airport to your hotel, Le Méridien Phoenicia. Please join us this evening for a welcome dinner. Meals D

• 2. Explore Malta / Embark Le Ponant
A guided tour of Malta includes the medieval walled city of Mdina and a drive around St. Julian’s Bay, where the oft-pictured colorful Maltese boats are sheltered. Return to Valletta for a walking tour, and visit the elaborate Co-Cathedral of St. John. Arrive at the Grand Harbour to board the yacht Le Ponant for Sicily. Meals BLD

• 3. Savor the Day at Siracusa, Sicily
Le Ponant docks at Siracusa, an important stronghold of ancient Greece. Visit Neapolis Parco Archeologico and its masterpiece, Teatro Greco, a 15,000-seat theatre hewn out of rock. Explore Latomia del Paradiso, featuring the Ear of Dionysius. Spend the afternoon in the city’s historic cultural center, the island of Ortigia; return to Le Ponant for the Captain’s reception, followed by dinner. Meals BLD

• 4. Explore Historic Taormina, Sicily
The views of Mt. Etna astound as Le Ponant approaches the terraced town of Taormina. Spend the day exploring, including a guided visit to spectacular Teatro Greco, built in 3 BC by the Greeks and remodeled by the Romans, and take a stroll along the Corso Umberto through Old Town. Meals BLD

• 5. A Taste of Palermo, Sicily
Spend the day in Palermo, the capital of Sicily. Set in a natural amphitheatre, Palermo was once an Arab emirate, once the seat of a Norman kingdom, and once Europe’s grandest city. See the Cathedral, Porto Nuovo, the Palazzo dei Normani and Fontana Pretoria, a beautiful – yet controversial – 16th-century fountain. Sample regional culinary specialties during lunch for an authentic taste of daily life, and enjoy traditional entertainment tonight. Meals BLD

• 6. Antiquities and Artifacts of Sicily
Drive to Segesta to see the never-completed temple, which was started in 426 BC; in addition to its well preserved Doric columns, it boasts some of the most magnificent views in Sicily. Continue on to the ancient town of Erice for lunch. Established some 3,000 years ago, medieval influences are everywhere, from the Duomo to Castello di Venere; explore at leisure. Meet Le Ponant in Trapani. Meals BLD

• 7. Enjoy the Pleasures of Lipari
Explore Lipari, including a 16th-century castle and a 17th-century cathedral perched above the harbor. Sail by the island of Stromboli tonight, home to one of the world’s few constantly active volcanoes; the view is unforgettable! Meals BLD

• 8. Travel the Incomparable Amalfi Coast
Journey to the town of Amalfi for a guided walk, then wind along the mountain drive to Ravello. Visit Villa Rufolo and savor incredible scenic views during lunch. Return to the ship for the Captain’s farewell dinner. Meals BLD

9. Disembark Le Ponant / Naples / Rome
Disembark for a sightseeing tour of Naples, including the Posillipo, Santa Lucia and Castel Nuovo. Visit the Museo Archeologico Nazionale, and enjoy a traditional pizza lunch before heading to Rome. Meals BLD

10. Rome, Capital of the Ancient World
See Rome’s landmark sights with a local guide, including a walk through the Vatican. Following free time this afternoon, join us for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Meals BD

11. Journey Home
Tour ends: Rome, Italy. A transfer to the airport is included. Allow 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in. Inquire at time of booking for additional nights in Rome. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Land / Cruise Price includes private Tauck shore excursions, cruise fare, port charges, wine with dinner aboard Le Ponant, and gratuities to ship staff.

Travel North or South – Cruise operates north from Malta and south from Rome. Sightseeing is identical; southbound itinerary is available upon request.

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Cruise Protection Plan.
 

7-Night Cruise on Le Ponant ~ Malta ~ Taormina ~ Siracusa ~ Lipari ~ Ravello
• An exclusive cruise aboard Le Ponant with only 60 Tauck guests
• Private Tauck Shore Excursions in every port and 3 days sightseeing on land – $796 Value!
• Two nights in Rome at Grand Hotel Parco Dei Principi, a sumptuous hotel overlooking the city
• Special Tauck Experiences include a traditional Sicilian entertainment evening, a “Taste of Palermo” featuring regional culinary specialties and a night sail by the volcanic island of Stromboli for an unforgettable view
• Wine with dinner aboard Le Ponant
• All gratuities to cruise ship staff aboard Le Ponant
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Rome, Travel to Sorrento
Tour departs: 10:00 AM from Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino. Travel through the fertile Campania countryside, around the Bay of Naples, and past Mount Vesuvius to the lively resort town of Sorrento; your hotel overlooks the sparkling Bay of Naples. Join us for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner. Meals LD

2. Discover the Amalfi Coast
Rise early for an unhurried drive along the Amalfi Coast, one of the most spectacular drives in the world; visit the seaside villages of Amalfi and Ravello, where you’ll savor the panoramic views of the coast and sea. Return to Sorrento in the afternoon to explore its charming piazzas and the historic Roman streets of the old town. Meals BL

3. Pompeii / Rome
Travel to Pompeii this morning, frozen in time when it was completely buried by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walk through Pompeii with a local expert to discover the way life was in ancient Italy – visit the temple, the forum and a home adorned with frescoes. Arrive late afternoon in Rome for the next three nights; your hotel is located on the fashionable Via Veneto, one of Rome’s most prestigious addresses. Meals BLD

4. Visit Vatican City
A visit to Vatican City, both city and state, includes the Vatican Museums; see Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel. Tour St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square, then you’re free to linger at the Vatican or return to your hotel; spend the afternoon as you please. Dinner tonight is at a local restaurant in Rome – one of the many culinary pleasures Italy is known for. Meals BD

5. Rome of the Caesars
Rome sightseeing includes views of the Roman Forum from above, and a visit to the Colosseum. See the ruins of the Imperial Palace and Circus Maximus, and travel to San Pietro in Vincoli for a look at Michelangelo’s statue of Moses. The remainder of the day is free. Meals B

6. Orvieto and Torgiano
Arrive in Orvieto, high on a hill overlooking the vineyards below. Visit the Duomo; the façade is a visual treat, a blend of sculpture and mosaic splashed with a palette of colors and magnificent bronze doors. Following a traditional trattoria lunch near the Piazza del Duomo, continue through Umbria, a wine-producing region. Arrive in Torgiano, a small village in the Tiber Valley, where you will experience Italian country life for the next two nights. Your hotel is a former 17th-century patrician home featuring wooden beams, terra cotta floors, and a private winery – attend a wine tasting to sample the grapes! Meals BLD

7. Explore Historic Assisi
Take a short drive to Assisi, a well-preserved medieval hillside town spread across the slopes of a mountain. Assisi was the home of St. Francis, who left a position of wealth and turned to a life of poverty, chastity and obedience, founding the order whose followers became known as Franciscans. St. Francis Basilica, built by the people, today houses some of Italy’s great 13th- and 14th-century frescoes. Enjoy some free time in the center of town, and then return to Torgiano where you’ll discover the nuances of Italian cooking from an Umbrian chef who shares the secrets at a cooking demonstration. Meals BD

8. Under the Tuscan Sun / San Gimignano
Your travels through the enchanting Tuscan Hills take you through golden landscapes dotted with olive and fig trees. Arrive in the hilltop town of San Gimignano, and enjoy some free time on your own. Drive by Pisa to see the famed Leaning Tower, and then travel through lush Tuscan vistas to the seaside resort town of Viareggio. Meals BD

9. Cinque Terre Villages / Florence
Cinque Terre was accessible only by sea for hundreds of years. Travel by train through the mountains to one of the villages, where you’ll experience daily life – from colorful fishing boats home from the sea, to the wine, olives, and citrus fruit produced locally. You’ll have time to explore, perhaps sampling the unique flavors of the local cuisine for lunch. Aboard a private boat, cruise the shores of the “Italian Riviera” for unparalleled views of this dramatic coast. Journey to Florence for a three-night stay at one of Italy’s grand hotels. Meals BD

10. Experience Renaissance Florence
Attend an in-depth briefing given by a university professor who is an art history lecturer, followed by a walking tour of the Galleria dell’Accademia. One of the most popular museums in Europe, it is home to collections of paintings and sculptures by the great artists of the 14th and 15th centuries, including Michelangelo’s statue of David. Spend the remainder of the afternoon and evening as you please exploring the artistic city of Florence. Meals B

11. Uffizi Gallery
Join a local expert for a guided tour of the inspiring Uffizi Gallery. Originally built as a suite of offices before being used to display the Medici family’s art treasures in 1581, it is renowned as the oldest gallery in the world. The rest of the day is free to explore Florence as you please. Meals B

12. Eurostar High-Speed Rail to Venice
Travel by rail this morning to Venice, built on 118 small islands and traversed by some 100 canals. Transfer by canal boat to your hotel, conveniently located near St. Mark’s Square; after lunch, embark on a walking tour. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica as well as the sumptuous Doges’ Palace, which was the official residence of the elected officials of the former Venetian Republic. Finish the day with the quintessential Venetian experience – a serenade aboard a gondola on the canals. Dinner this evening is on your own in Venice, renowned for its restaurants! Meals BL

13. Venice at Leisure
The entire day is free to do as you please. You’ve got lots to choose from – perhaps people-watching from a café in St. Mark’s Square, visiting the museums, walking along the narrow streets and lanes, or taking a tour of the islands. Join us this evening for a farewell cocktail reception and dinner. Meals BD

14. Journey Home
Tour ends: 7:30 AM at Venice’s Marco Polo Airport. You should allow 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in. Persons who are departing at other times should secure their own transportation to the airport. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Air is Additional – Call Tauck for special rates on international air, in coach or business, for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Guest Protection Plan.
 

Sorrento ~ Amalfi Coast ~ Rome ~ Umbria ~ Tuscany ~ Florence ~ Venice
Tauck’s Yellow Roads
Travel Italy’s back roads from Torgiano to Viareggio on a journey through the Tuscan Hills – they’re the picturesque landscapes you’ll discover “under the Tuscan sun.”

Wine Tasting and Cooking Demonstration
Catch a glimpse of Italian country life on a two-night stay at a country-house hotel set in a private vineyard in the small village of Torgiano, Umbria; attend a wine tasting from local vineyards and share the secrets of the nuances of Italian cooking with an Umbrian chef.

Lecture by a University Professor, Florence
Attend an in-depth briefing by an art historian before a guided walking tour of the famed Galleria dell’Accademia.

Private Boat Ride, Cinque Terre
Aboard a private boat, cruise along the Mediterranean shores of Cinque Terre for an extraordinary look at centuries-old villages set in rugged coastal mountains.
 

Itinerary

Southbound (Marseille – Malta)

1. Arrive Marseille / Arles
Tour begins: 6:30 PM, Hotel Jules César, Arles, France. A transfer is included from the Marseille-Provence Int’l Airport to the Hotel Jules César in the Provençal town of Arles. Join us for tonight’s welcome reception and dinner. Meals D

2. Discover Provence – Arles / Avignon
A walking tour of Arles, inspiration for many works by Vincent Van Gogh, includes the Roman Arena and the cloisters at St-Trophime. Travel to the Pont du Gard to see the aqueduct spanning the Gardon River, then on to Avignon and the Palace of the Popes. A visit to the wine region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape precedes an evening of local wine and food, served as heavy hors d’oeuvres. Meals BD

3. Citadel of Les Baux / Aix-en-Provence
See the Van Gogh Bridge, then visit the medieval Citadel of Les Baux. Travel to the ancient Roman town of Aix-en-Provence, today a chic spa town, boasting grand architecture and beautiful fountains. Note: Sightseeing in the Citadel of Les Baux, and most sites visited in Provence, involves significant walking; these venues are not accessible to vehicles. Meals BD

4. Monte-Carlo Diversions
Journey to Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a medieval town that once guarded the Var Frontier, and continue on to Monaco. The afternoon and evening are free to spend at your leisure – your hotel is close to the Monte-Carlo Casino. Meals B

• 5. Discover Nice / Embark Le Ponant
Journey to Nice for a brief tour of the city and several hours of free time; board the sporty yacht Le Ponant for your 7-night cruise in the Mediterranean. Meals BD

• 6. Island of Elba
Drop anchor in the secluded harbor of Porto Azzurro, Elba, this morning for a visit to the Palazzina dei Mulini; Napoleon and his sister lived here during their brief exile on the island. Enjoy local entertainment aboard ship this afternoon before you sail along the coast. Meals BLD

• 7. Small Ships Only in Bonifacio
Corsica’s fjord-like harbor of Bonifacio is only accessible to small ships – your majestic entrance aboard Le Ponant is truly a special moment! Tour the walled fortress area, explore medieval lanes, stroll along the bluff high above the harbor, and see the former barracks of the French Foreign Legion. An afternoon at sea takes you through the Strait of Bonifacio to Ponza. Meals BLD

• 8. Ponza / Cruise the Mediterranean
Charming Ponza is fringed with dramatic coves and cliffs, featuring yellow and pink houses. Fishing boats set out from the 18th-century harbor, and vineyards cover the hillsides. Spend the morning exploring before setting sail for the Amalfi Coast, arriving in the Gulf of Salerno. Meals BLD

• 9. Travel the Amalfi Coast / Ravello
Travel ashore today for a memorable journey along the Amalfi Coast. Stop in the town of Amalfi en route to Ravello; enjoy splendid sea views during a lunch of regional specialties before visiting 13th-century Villa Rufolo. Meals BLD

• 10. Lipari / Fiery Lava of Stromboli
A tender takes you ashore to explore Lipari, largest of the Aeolian Islands. Sail by Stromboli, the “Black Giant,” one of the few volcanoes in the world that is frequently active. The view from the sea at night is unforgettable! Meals BLD

• 11. Cruise to Sicily / Taormina
Explore Taormina, clinging to the cliffs above the coast of eastern Sicily – stroll the Corso Umberto through Old Town, and take a guided tour of the ancient Greek Theatre, dating back to 2 BC, boasting inspiring views of Mt. Etna. Meals BLD

12. Arrive at Valletta, Malta
Le Ponant sails into the dramatic Grand Harbor of Valletta in Malta. A guided island tour includes the city of Mdina, a coastal drive around St. Julian’s Bay, and a walking tour of Valletta. Join us for a farewell dinner tonight. Meals BLD

13. Journey Home
Tour ends: Valletta, Malta. A transfer is included from Le Méridien Phoenicia to Malta International Airport. Allow a minimum of 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability). Departure tax is additional.

Land / Cruise Price includes private Tauck shore excursions, cruise fare, port charges, wine with dinner aboard Le Ponant, and gratuities to ship staff.

Travel North or South: This cruise operates both Northbound from Malta and Southbound from Marseille. Inquire for Northbound itinerary.

Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before your tour begins and about our comprehensive Cruise Protection Plan.

Call us for Le Ponant’s deck plans and ship specifications.
 

7-Night Cruise on Le Ponant ~ Malta ~ Sicily ~ Corsica ~ Amalfi Coast ~ Monte-Carlo ~ Arles ~ Provence

• An exclusive cruise aboard Le Ponant with only 60 Tauck guests!
• Private Tauck Shore Excursions – $545 Value!
• Six Mediterranean islands best accessed by small ship – Elba, Corsica, Ponza, Lipari, Sicily and Malta – for unique shore excursions to hidden harbors, coastal villages, and countryside antiquities
• A memorable night sailing by the volcanic island of Stromboli to view its eruptions of molten lava
• 5 days in the south of France exploring the heart of Provence and the French Riviera
• A special visit in Châteauneuf-du-Pape featuring Provençal wine, food, and entertainment
• Wine with dinner and local entertainment aboard ship
 

Itinerary

1. Arrive Milan
Tour begins: 6:00 PM at Grand Hotel et de Milan. A transfer is included from Milan Malpensa Airport to Grand Hotel et de Milan. At once you’ll feel the vibrancy of this cosmopolitan city that synergizes ancient and modern cultures in its art, fashion, and cuisine – the best Italy has to offer – set in the incomparably gorgeous lake region of Lombardy. A welcome cocktail reception this evening is followed by dinner. Meals D

2. Milan: City of Fashion & Art
Stand in awe of The Last Supper, painted by Leonardo da Vinci on a wall of the 15th-century convent, Santa Maria delle Grazie. The quiet power of this legendary fresco reverberates through centuries of western culture, still inciting mystery and controversy. Continue from its humble setting to the gilded halls of Castello Sforzesco, home to patrons of Leonardo, and the power center of Milan for generations. Tour the Duomo, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world; bristling with spires, it is adorned with a staggering display of statues, gargoyles and stained glass. A more recent architectural wonder is the Galleria, a vast 19th-century shopping arcade whose massive glass dome shelters a world of brilliant mosaics, as well as stylish shops and cafés that attract the glitterati. A walking tour of the city center is followed by free time and dinner on your own – your hotel is across the street from one of Milan’s most elegant streets, famed Via Napoleone. Don’t miss the fashion district, Quadrilatera, the heart of Italian chic and the upscale haunt of the rich and glamorous. Meals B

3. Lake Maggiore and Beautiful Como
Long and languorous, Lake Maggiore, with its secluded villas and lazy islands, offers a retreat from the bustle of the city. Arrive at Stresa on your way to Isola Bella, and the ancient home of the Borromeo Family, Palazzo Borromeo. Rising on a small island of landscaped gardens and terraces, the palazzo has hosted countless illustrious visitors, including Napoleon and Josephine. Ferry to a rest stop at stylish Lugano; walk its charming cobbled streets and enjoy the waterfront promenade, boutiques and outdoor cafés set along the lake. A scenic drive along Lake Lugano ends at the Grand Hotel Cadenabbia in Como, for a two-night stay. Meals BLD

4. Lake Como and Bellagio
Lake Como is the most beguiling of Italian lakes, sought after by aristocrats and film stars for its lush green islands, luscious villas, and the stunning Alps as a backdrop. Travel to Tremezzo to visit the 17th-century Villa Carlotta, called “a place of heaven,” on acres of landscaped gardens. Cruise to Bellagio, a resort town on the tip of a slender peninsula with spectacular views of the lake and mountains. Explore the shops and cafés at your leisure. Later, a boat ride past palatial lakeside villas takes you to dinner at Crotto Dei Platani, a restaurant located partially in a cave (or crotto) overlooking the lake, a dreamlike setting at evening. Meals BD

5. Roman Treasures of Northern Italy
Drive to Lake Garda and Sirmione, which the Roman poet Catullus called “the gem of all the peninsulas,” set in a dramatic landscape of glacier-carved cliffs and mountain pines. Since the first century, conquerors have fallen under the spell of its majesty. A storybook castle, Rocca Scaligera, guards the tip of the peninsula and its belfries, battlements, inviting gardens, churches and villas. Spas, outstanding restaurants, thermal baths, markets, and fashionable shops seduce the modern traveler. Depart for the nearby city of Verona and arrive at the Due Torri Hotel Baglioni for a two-night stay; you’ll dine at a local restaurant this evening. Meals BD

6. Verona and a Taste of Amarone
Verona is second only to Rome in its number of Roman ruins, which even includes a coliseum. Pastel villas, built from rosso di Verona, the local pink limestone, line the cobbled streets – and Romeo and Juliet played out their illicit affair here. But besides its romantic history, the city is celebrated for its outstanding wine and cuisine. Discover its epicurean essence on a tour of a local winery, L’Azienda Allegrini. For generations, the Allegrini family has been synonymous with Valpolicella, and producers of Amarone, a world-famous wine unique to the region. After the wine and food tasting, return to the city. Meals B

7. Mantua and Modena
Mantua (Mantova), a city of imposing Gothic architecture, bounded on three sides by lakes, is the birthplace of the poet Virgil and the setting for Verdi’s Rigoletto. Your tour includes the Palazzo Ducale, and the Castello San Giorgio, a 14th-century fortress that houses an outstanding art collection. After lunch, drive to Modena, home of the Ferrari and Maserati. Besides fast cars, Modena is famous for balsamic vinegar, produced only in the lakes region. A tour of a local museum reveals the art of balsamic vinegar making – an elaborate process of rendering grapes and decanting must into wooden barrels – as well as sampling this aromatic staple of gourmet cooking. Arrive at the Grand Hotel Bologna where you’ll dine at a local restaurant tonight for a gastronomic delight. Meals BLD

8. Epicurean Delights in Bologna
Enjoy a walking tour of the elegant center of Bologna, where palaces cluster in the shade of two colossal medieval towers. The afternoon is yours to explore on your own. Discover why the city’s nickname is La Grassa (the Fat One); gastronomic opportunities abound in this gourmet capital! A cooking class by a master chef will show you some secrets, followed by a memorable dinner. Meals BD

9. Ferrara, Padua and on to Venice
Arrive in Ferrara, where the battlements and towers of Castello D’Etense loom over the city center. A walking tour of the town uncovers a wealth of museums, art galleries, and palazzi. Have lunch at a local restaurant, and then continue on to Padua, famous as a medieval seat of learning. Visit the Basilica de Sant Antonio de Padua (Il Santo), where the saint himself lies in a tomb of carved marble. Continue on to the lovely city of Venice for a two-night stay; your hotel, the Hilton Molino Stucky, Venice, is set on Giudecca Island with breathtaking views of the canals. A flourmill in 1895, the restoration has created an architectural delight, just minutes by boat to Piazza San Marco. Meals BL

10. Venice Delights
Venice is art itself, in all its passion, eccentricity, and poignancy; its streets are a maze of canals arched by bridges and lined with magnificent palazzi. Travel by boat to Piazza San Marco for a guided walking tour, where you’ll get an insider’s view. The basilica features exquisite mosaics and carvings. You will also visit the Doges’ Palace, official residence of Venetian rulers in the Middle Ages. Nothing compares to a serenade on a gondola ride along the canals; it is something you expect to do in Venice – yet it will tug at your heartstrings long after your return. Spend the afternoon exploring on your own before returning to the hotel for a farewell cocktail reception and dinner. Meals BD

11. Journey Home
Tour ends: Venice, Italy. Fly home any time. A transfer from Hilton Molino Stucky, Venice to Venice Marco Polo Airport is included. Allow 2 1/2 hours for flight check-in. Meals B

Dates & Prices

International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air for travel originating in the U.S. (subject to availability).