Italian Back Roads Indulgence, Rome to Venice
- Duration
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,179
Explore and discover the beauty and charms of Northern Italy - Umbria, Tuscany and Piedmont. Visit medieval cities, hilltowns, enjoy wine tasting, stay at an Idyllic villa and learn to make the perfect pasta. As a grand finale, spend time in Venice, city of canals.
Join one of our unique small group Back-Roads touring experiences (maximum 18 participants) that includes specially selected accommodations, transportation in purpose built Mercedes Benz Sprinters, sightseeing, special culinary experiences and a knowledgeable Tour Leader. Click here for all the EXCLUSIVE DIFFERENCES.
Depart from Rome heading north to the province of Umbria. Stop first in the medieval village of Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis. After time exploring Assisi, continue to Perugia, another Umbrian medieval walled city dating back to Etruscan times. It is known for its universities and as a cultural and artistic centre. Overnight in Perugia.
Visit the following morning, the wonderful impressive city of Siena in Tuscany. The Piazza del Campo will take your breath away with its imposing beauty. It is also the venue of the famous Palio horse race. Later, you will travel through the local Tuscan countryside with its rolling hills, olive groves and vineyards arriving at your idyllic Tuscan villa in the Chianti region where you will stay for 2 nights.
The next day, the villa’s chef will teach you the secrets to making the perfect pasta and Italian bread which you will then prepare and eat for lunch. The remainder of the day is free to relax by the pool.
The next morning, travel to Florence where you will have a walking tour of the city including the renowned and ancient Ponte Vecchio spanning the Arno River. Walk over the bridge with its many glittering jewellery shops. Visit the Galeria dell’ Accademia to view the famous imposing Michelangelo statue of David. Leave Florence and head to Lucca, an extremely attractive Tuscan town, one of Italy’s finest medieval towns with its massive 16th Century walls. Spend 2 nights here.
Next up is a visit to Pisa with its famous Leaning Tower and the Baptistery of St. John. Return to Lucca with a free afternoon to explore the charms of the city.
The following morning, head north to the province of Piedmont known for its charming castles, quaint villages and hilltop vineyards. Arrive at the village of Barolo where you will go on a truffle hunt with a local farmer together with a hunting dog to eek out the famed, rare and expensive white Alba truffle. Continue to Pollenza, an unassuming small town known for its cuisine and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here you will visit the Banca del Vino to have a wine tasting lead by professional sommeliers. Overnight in Pollenza.
The next day, start with a visit to the Torronificio Barbero Nougat private collection for a tasting of nougat and chocolate. This is followed by a risotto lunch after which continue to the lakes of Northern Italy. After a short stop at Lake Orta, arrive at Lake Maggiore for a 2 night stay.
The next morning, explore the Borromean Islands on Lake Maggiore. You will visit Isola Bella with its magnificent baroque garden, Isola del Pescatori with its pretty harbour and Isola Madre with its Renaissance villa.
Leave Lake Maggiore and travel to Verona stopping at Lake Garda en route. On arrival in Verona, explore the city with its wonderful Roman amphitheatre, venue of open air operas and Juliet’s balcony. Overninght in Verona.
Finally head to Venice for a walking tour which includes St. Mark’s Square and Cathedral, the Doges Palace and the Rialto Bridge. The afternoon is free to explore further this enchanting city of canals. Overnight in Venice after which your Italian Indulgence tour ends.
- Duration
- 12 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,179
Itinerary View Trip Map View Trip Special
Rome to Assisi and Perugia
They say all roads lead to Rome, but after we meet, our route whisks us away to awe-inspiring Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis. Tonight, we come together for a delicious dinner in Perugia.
| Meal Plan | Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Fortuna |
| Location | View map |
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Hotel Fortuna
In an exclusive location in the historic center of Perugia, just a few meters from Corso Vannucci and the city hall, in a building of 1300, Hotel Fortuna is unique for the comfort and hospitality of the staff. The hotel will be happy to give ...
In an exclusive location in the historic center of Perugia, just a few meters from Corso Vannucci and the city hall, in a building of 1300, Hotel Fortuna is unique for the comfort and hospitality of the staff. The hotel will be happy to give illustrations and explanations about the city, to advise on shows, exhibitions and events and to offer the most characteristic restaurants.
Facilities
- Internet Access - Wireless
- Library
- Multi-lingual Staff
- Room Service Limited Hours
Photo gallery
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Perugia to Siena and Tuscany
Introducing Siena: a gorgeous Gothic city bursting with fabulous architecture. After exploring the old centre, we venture to our villa in the world-renowned Chianti region.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Villa La Palagina |
| Location | View map |
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Villa La Palagina
Nestled in the Tuscan Hills, in the Italian wine-growing region of Chianti, Villa la Palagina was built using stone from an ancient convent. First inhabited at the end of the 16th century by a noble Florentine family, the Villa has housed many illustrious residents over ...
Nestled in the Tuscan Hills, in the Italian wine-growing region of Chianti, Villa la Palagina was built using stone from an ancient convent. First inhabited at the end of the 16th century by a noble Florentine family, the Villa has housed many illustrious residents over the years including Bettino. Ricasoli, the Italian Prime Minister in the second half of 19th century. With fantastic views of the Tuscan countryside, the Villa is an ideal base from which to explore the beautiful Tuscany region, relax in the evenings, and enjoy the fantastic food and wine. Keep your eyes peeled as you may even run into Sting, a next-door neighbour, in the restaurant!
Facilities
- Concierge
- Internet Access - Wireless
- Library
- Meeting Rooms Available
- Parking
- Restaurant
- Swimming Pool
- Swimming Pool - Outdoor
Photo gallery
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Tuscany
Our host lets us in on a few secrets of Italian cooking today, as we prepare ourselves a classic rustic Tuscan lunch. Later, the afternoon is free to relax.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
|---|
Tuscany to Florence and Lucca
We turn our attention to Florence -- birthplace of the Renaissance and home to the world's most treasured masterpieces. A local guide brings the city alive as we stroll through the streets on a walking tour. As afternoon melts into dusk, we continue on to Lucca.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli |
| Location | View map |
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Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli
La Corte Degli Angeli stands cupped within the encircling walls of Lucca crowned with its sheltering trees. It is the size of a jewel-box both intimate yet spacious and is full of charm and fascinating attractions. A delightful place to stay, it is furnished with ...
La Corte Degli Angeli stands cupped within the encircling walls of Lucca crowned with its sheltering trees. It is the size of a jewel-box both intimate yet spacious and is full of charm and fascinating attractions. A delightful place to stay, it is furnished with every comfort and decorated according to a pattern of flowers which enhances the interior decoration with its lively colours. The evocative view over the old roofs and characteristic towers of the town are an added joy.
Facilities
- 24 Hour Room Service
- Concierge
- Internet Access - Wireless
- Laundry facilities
- Lounge Bar
- Multi-lingual Staff
Photo gallery
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Lucca to Pisa to Lucca
We come up close and personal to an Italian icon today, with a visit to the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Afternoon sees us back in Lucca, where you have the rest of the day and night to explore at your own pace.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Lucca - Camogli - San Fruttuoso - Portofino - Santa Margherita Ligure
It's time to experience the glitz and glamour of the Italian Riviera. Have your camera ready as we tick off Camogli, San Fruttuoso and the glittering village of Portofino, before settling in Santa Margherita Ligure. Enjoy an evening at your own pace - strolling along the beachfront, lined with pastel-painted houses.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Lido Palace |
| Location | View map |
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Hotel Lido Palace
In a historic Liberty building on the seacoast of Santa Margherita Ligure, capital of Tigullio, the Lido Palace Hotel welcome guests in an elegant environment with all the conveniences and the best services for either a pleasant vacation or an agreeable business visit. Restaurant and ...
In a historic Liberty building on the seacoast of Santa Margherita Ligure, capital of Tigullio, the Lido Palace Hotel welcome guests in an elegant environment with all the conveniences and the best services for either a pleasant vacation or an agreeable business visit. Restaurant and American-style bar with a view of the sea, wellness corner, three conference rooms and a total of 54 rooms and suites, makes it one of the best 4-star hotels of the Italian Riviera, ideal for organizing team building events, incentives and minor corporate engagements.
Facilities
- 24 Hour Reception
- Bar
- Internet
- Laundry
- Massage Treatments
- Restaurant
Photo gallery
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Santa Margherita - Barolo - Asti - Cherasco
Our compass points north and we travel inland to Piedmont, a region of rich red wines and luxurious cuisine. Our first stop is Grinzane Cavour Castle, before driving near the village of Barolo. A treat is in store for the sweet-toothed among us at a distillery near Asti, where we sip regional liquors, complemented by hand-made nougat. Finally, we will end our busy day with a sumptuous slow-food dinner in Cherasco.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Somaschi |
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Hotel Somaschi
Hotel Somaschi is in Cherasco, a 15-minute drive from A6 motorway and 45 minutes from Torino. It offers a mini spa, free Wi-Fi and parking and hill and mountain views. Somaschi's spacious rooms are air conditioned and feature a Sky TV, a computer and panoramic ...
Hotel Somaschi is in Cherasco, a 15-minute drive from A6 motorway and 45 minutes from Torino. It offers a mini spa, free Wi-Fi and parking and hill and mountain views.
Somaschi's spacious rooms are air conditioned and feature a Sky TV, a computer and panoramic views on the Monviso, part of the Cottian Alps.
The on-site mini spa includes an outdoor swimming pool, a Turkish bath and relaxation area. You will find small lounge area for coffee breaks and breakfast. In the cigar room you can enjoy liquors.Facilities
- Parking
- Pool
- Restaurant
- Spa
Photo gallery
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Cherasco - Lake Orta - Lake Maggiore
This morning we join a truffle hunt with a local farmer, and then it's time to head for the hills, pristine lakes and soaring mountains of northern Italy. Lake Maggiore marks the magnificent final stop of the day's journey.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Nights |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Majestic |
| Location | View map |
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Hotel Majestic
A truly majestic Belle-Epoque villa resting on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Grand Hotel Majestic Pallanza Verbania was built in 1870 when fashion dictated a palatial facade, large rooms and delightful English-style gardens. Today this magnificent hotel has a sensational wellness centre with an indoor ...
A truly majestic Belle-Epoque villa resting on the shores of Lake Maggiore, Grand Hotel Majestic Pallanza Verbania was built in 1870 when fashion dictated a palatial facade, large rooms and delightful English-style gardens. Today this magnificent hotel has a sensational wellness centre with an indoor pool, and rooms with glorious lake views. This is a marvellous place to unwind. Sit in the tranquil, flower-scented garden of Grand Hotel Majestic and gaze across the lake to the Barromee Islands and the distant mountains. Then, wander down to the private jetty and the delightful little beach before a vigorous game of tennis or a beauty treatment in the spa.
Facilities
- 24 Hour Reception
- Internet Access - Wireless
- Lounge Bar
- Multi-lingual Staff
- Porters
- Sauna
- Spa Services
- Swimming Pool
Photo gallery
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Lake Maggiore
Leaving dry land behind us for the day, we set sail for the Borromean Islands. We wander the terraces of the ornate Baroque Garden on Isola Bella and discover the pretty harbour of Isola dei Pescatori. The rest of the day is free for you to relax.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Lake Maggiore - Lecco - Tirano
Bidding farewell to Lake Maggiore, we discover the sights of Lecco before we reach Tirano for a wine tasting session. After an indulgent afternoon, we return to our hotel and meet for dinner at a local restaurant to continue the culinary adventure.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Villa Moron Hotel |
| Location | View map |
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Villa Moron Hotel
This new hotel is located in a panoramic position among the vineyards of Moron and Negrar in the heart of Valpolicella, 15km from Verona.
This new hotel is located in a panoramic position among the vineyards of Moron and Negrar in the heart of Valpolicella, 15km from Verona.
Facilities
- Bar
- Elevator
- Parking
- Terrace
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Tirano - Lake Molveno - Trento
This morning we turn our attention to the majestic Lake Molveno at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites. We continue to Trento for a walking tour and meet in the evening for a farewell dinner.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1 Night |
| Accommodation |
Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal |
| Location | View map |
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Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal
Near to the railway station of Santa Lucia, to the Cruise Terminal/Maritime Station and the parking areas at Piazzale Roma, the hotel is practical, convenient and easy to reach, in a privileged position to visit all the main tourist attractions. The pastel colours, Venetian plaster-work ...
Near to the railway station of Santa Lucia, to the Cruise Terminal/Maritime Station and the parking areas at Piazzale Roma, the hotel is practical, convenient and easy to reach, in a privileged position to visit all the main tourist attractions.
The pastel colours, Venetian plaster-work and wall-lamps in Murano glass, the Hotel Carlton on the Grand Canal will enchant you with its refined elegance.Facilities
- Conference Room
- Reception
- Restaurant
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 1
Trento - Verona - Venice
Fair Verona beckons today, with its impressive Roman ruins and romantic hotspots. Then it's onwards to the show-stopping finale: the floating city of Venice where we bid farewell.
| Meal Plan | Breakfast |
|---|
Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2017: Aug 3, 10, 24, 31; Sep 3, 5, 7, 10, 12, 14, 17, 19, 21, 24, 26, 28; Oct 1, 8;
2018: Feb 27; Mar 20; Apr 5, 12, 19, 23, 24, 26; May 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, 15, 17, 20, 22, 24, 27, 29; Jun 1, 6, 10, 14, 17, 24, 28; Jul 1, 5, 8, 15, 19, 22, 26; Aug 2, 9, 12, 23, 30; Sep 2, 4, 6, 9, 11, 13, 16, 18, 20, 23, 25, 27; Oct 1, 7, 11, 18
PRICE INCLUDES:
- 11 nights accommodation
- Back-Roads tour leader
- Driver and mini-coach transportation
- Local guides
- Whispers in Florence and Venice
- European breakfast daily
- 6 evening meals
- 2 lunches
- Italian pasta cooking class
- Venice water taxi
- Wine, olive oil, Montebore cheese, chocolate and nougat tasting
- Entrance fees (Baptistery of St. John in Pisa, Cinque Terre flexi pass, Isola Bella and Isola Madre on Lake Maggiore)
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Driver/tour leader gratuity is at your discretion
- Lunches (unless otherwise stated)
- Social drinks
- Meals on free nights
- Items of a personal nature
- Entrance fees when not listed in the schedule of inclusions
- Occasional optional evening theatre/festival visits and entrances not detailed in the tour inclusions
- Incidental expenses, such as room service incurred at hotels
- All expenses are to be settled prior to leaving the accommodation
- Laundry costs and any shipping charges for the return of purchases made on tour, or for the return of property lost on tour
- Pre and post tour accommodation
- Unless otherwise listed in the inclusions, transfers are not included in the tour price
OTHER INFORMATION:
Back-Roads Touring have hand-picked an extensive portfolio of quality properties across Europe and to ensure the very best experience on each of our tours, hotels may vary to those listed in this itinerary.
Mobility: All of our tours involve walking and require our guests to board and disembark our vehicles several times a day making this tour unsuitable for those with reduced mobility.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from", per person, based on twin share. Subject to availability. The hotels have been hand-picked from an extensive portfolio of quality properties across Europe and to ensure the very best experience on each of our tours, hotels may vary to those listed in this itinerary.
15 Jan 2018
