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John & Amy ­ Venice, Florence & Rome with Amalfi Coast Signature 756514Vio2 Arrival: Sep 13, 2015 Duration: 11 days (10 nights) Group Size: 2 people Trip Ref: 756514Vio2
Prepared by Jessel Violago
626­296­6477 Email: jessel@adventurelink.com JOHN & AMY ­ VENICE, FLORENCE & ROME WITH AMALFI COAST SIGNATURE Per person: $4,280.30 (USD) (double room) Total Trip Price:
$8,560.61 (USD) (excluding international airfare) Quote #: 756514Vio2 (expired ­ contact us for updated quote) Please note that nothing is booked or reserved until deposit is received. TRIP SUMMARY Enjoy three enigmatic cities, all with distinct character in one of the most vibrant countries of Europe. Start in the most romantic city in the world ­ Venice. Explore the city by gondola and on foot, along the narrow alleys and laneways giving on to magnificent squares such as the Piazza di San Marco. Check out the famous hand blown glass at Murano, and visit nearby islands of Burano and Torcello. Spend the next few days exploring the city of Florence and the Chianti region. Enjoy your final days in Rome, from the floor of the Colosseum where gladiators fought, and the genteel halls of the Vatican where you will find the world's oldest book, to the site of the Trevi Fountain and the bustling piazzas and trattorias. With a mix of private and shared tours along with time at leisure, and finish your Italian tour in the Smile ­ for what worries can you possibly have when everything is looked after seamlessly for you from start to finish... Bravo! Page 2 / 12
ITINERARY SUMMARY DAY
Day 1: Sun, Sep 13 2015 Venice Day 2: Mon, Sep 14 2015 Venice Day 3: Tue, Sep 15 2015 Venice ­ Florence ACTIVITIES
HOTEL
Transfer ­ Private ­ Airport (Venice Island) with Assistance Meet & Greet ­ WaterTaxi/Assistant/Driver l Italy ­ Welcome Package (1 pack) l Lunch (not included) Violino D` Oro (3*) Canal View (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) l
l
Dinner (not included) ­ l
Tour ­ Private ­ 1/2 Day Classic Venice Walking Tour (2 hrs) ­ Guide Lunch (not included) Dinner (not included) Violino D` Oro (3*) Canal View (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) Self­Guided ­ Local Water Taxi (Train Station) Departure Train ­ Venice ­ Florence [2 hrs] ­ 1st Class Train Ticket Transfer ­ Private ­ Train Station ­ Vehicle/Driver Lunch (not included) Dinner (not included) Santa Maria Novella (4*) Superior (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) l
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Day 4: Wed, Sep 16 2015 Florence Day 5: Thu, Sep 17 2015 Florence Day 6: Fri, Sep 18 2015 Florence ­ Rome Tour ­ Shared ­ 1/2 Day Medieval & Renaissance Walking Tour (2.5hrs) ­ Guide l Lunch (not included) l Dinner (not included) Santa Maria Novella (4*) Superior (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) Tour ­ Shared ­ San Gimignano, Siena, Monteriggioni & Chianti (with Snack & Wine Tasting) (11hrs) ­ Coach/Guide l Lunch (not included) l Dinner (not included) Santa Maria Novella (4*) Superior (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) l
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Day 7: Sat, Sep 19 2015 Rome Tour ­ Shared ­ 1/2 Day Ancient Rome (2.5 hrs) (Max 12 pax) ­ Vehicle/Guide/Driver l
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Day 8: Sun, Sep 20 2015 Rome Day 9: Mon, Sep 21 2015 Rome ­ Naples ­ Positano Day 10: Tue, Sep 22 2015 Positano Day 11: Wed, Sep 23 2015 Positano Transfer ­ Private ­ Train Station ­ Vehicle/Driver Train ­ Florence ­ Rome [1.5 hrs] ­ 1st Class Train Ticket Transfer ­ Private ­ Train Station ­ Vehicle/Driver Lunch (not included) Dinner (not included) Lunch (not included) Dinner (not included) Hotel Capo d`Africa (4*) Superior (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) Hotel Capo d`Africa (4*) Superior (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) Tour ­ Shared ­ 1/2 Day Vatican Museums & St. Peter`s (2.5 hrs) (Max 12 pax) ­ Vehicle/Guide/Driver l Lunch (not included) l Dinner (not included) Hotel Capo d`Africa (4*) Superior (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) Transfer ­ Private ­ Train Station ­ Vehicle/Driver l Train ­ Rome ­ Naples [1 hr 10 mins] ­ 1st Class Train Ticket l Transfer ­ Private ­ Naples ­ Amalfi [with Guided visit to Pompeii (2 hrs) en route] ­ Vehicle/Guide/Driver l Lunch (not included) l Dinner (not included) Palazzo Murat (4*) Superior (B)
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Self Guided Suggestion ­ Exploring Capri Island Lunch (not included) Dinner (not included) Transfer ­ Private ­ Positano ­ Naples [Airport, 1 hr 15 mins] ­ Vehicle/Driver l
Palazzo Murat (4*) Superior (B)
1 DBL (2 Adults) Depart (Int`l Airport) B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive
CUSTOMIZABLE TRIP OPTIONS Page 3 / 12
All of our itineraries may be customized as you wish, add extra days, change a hotel, see different sights. Contact one of our expert consultants for your free, no­obligation vacation plan. Page 4 / 12
DETAILED ITINERARY (DAY­BY­DAY) Day 1: Sun, Sep 13 2015 ­ Venice Take a private water taxi transfer from the airport to your hotel or vice versa. You will be accompanied by an assistant (with meet & greet for arrivals), who will help you locate your reserved water taxi, and accompany you to your hotel or closest pier. A welcome package with a city map, train tickets (if relevant), and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip. Accommodation: Violino D` Oro (3*) Gondola on the Grand Canal
Violino D' Oro (3*)
Day 2: Mon, Sep 14 2015 ­ Venice Enjoy a 2­hour private walking tour of Venice with an English speaking local guide. Visit St. Mark's Square, the heart of political and religious power of the Venetian Republic for centuries. You’ll learn the history that lies behind the walls of its most famous landmarks; the Basilica and its Byzantine heritage, the Doge's Palace and its adjoining prisons that retain the true secrets of how a city built on swamps became one of the most enlightened cities in the western world. Then, leave St. Mark's behind you to discover the enchanting Hidden Venice. Following a monumental route, your guide will narrate the in­depth history of Venice from its origins to the modern­day. You'll hear tales of illustrious Venetian characters like Marco Polo and Casanova. Other highlights include Marco Polo's House, a Merchants’ Warehouse, the lively Campo Santa Maria Formosa with its outstanding Venetian Palaces, the Church of Venice Lagoon Facade
San Giovanni e Paolo (the Pantheon of Venice), and at the Scuola di San Marco you'll learn about the famous Confraternities (Schools) of merchants and artisans that provided the foundations of the Venetian mercantile empire. This walking tour of Venice finishes at the evocative Rialto Bridge overlooking the Grand Canal and the Rialto Market. Entrances are not included. Accommodation: Violino D` Oro (3*) Day 3: Tue, Sep 15 2015 ­ Venice ­ Florence Please speak with the concierge at your hotel so that they can give you instructions on how to get the nearest public water taxi to the train station. Please be aware that not all hotels have a private boat launch so you may have to go to the nearest water taxi stand. Alternatively, if you would like a private boat transfer to be arranged in advance, please speak to your Sales Advisor. Enjoy a train ride from Venice to Florence today. Your journey will take approximately 2 hours. A private vehicle and driver will escort you to the train station today in Florence. Please note drivers may or may not speak English, as their sole responsibility is to transfer clients from one location to another. If you would like to have the presence of an English speaking Assistant or Guide for your transfer, this can be pre­arranged upon request and would be subject to an additional supplement. Michelangelo's Statue of David
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Accommodation: Santa Maria Novella (4*) Santa Maria Novella
Day 4: Wed, Sep 16 2015 ­ Florence The most complete and thrilling guided walking tour starts from the central market zone, where the Medici Chapels, and Basilica di S. Lorenzo, the church of Medici’s family, are located. In a short time, you can reach Piazza del Duomo, where you can admire the Cathedral and its dome by Brunelleschi, the bell­tower by Giotto, and Saint John Baptistery. The tour continues to the medieval quarters where Dante Alighieri and Beatrice lived. Further on you can find Palazzo del Bargello. Not too far from there, there is Piazza della Signoria, a great open­air sculpture museum, overlooked by the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. Next, you will go to the Uffizi Gallery, one of the most important museums in the world. Then you proceed to the picturesque Mercato della Paglia (Straw Market). You then walk along the street that leads to Ponte Vecchio, the “jewels bridge.” By crossing the bridge, you will reach the wonderful Pitti Palace where your tour ends. Ponte Vecchio
Accommodation: Santa Maria Novella (4*) Day 5: Thu, Sep 17 2015 ­ Florence Driving south from Florence and crossing the beautiful Chianti hills you will arrive at San Gimignano, a picturesque, fascinating Medieval jewel (declared a World heritage Site by UNESCO), famous for its white wine, the world renowned Vernaccia, and its skyscrapers. The visit is free for independent sightseeing: you will have time to wind your way through the narrow streets and admire the relaxing rolling landscape. Continue to Siena, the medieval town with the suggestive Piazza del Campo, famous for the Palio horse race and its splendid examples of Gothic civic architecture. Here stands the magnificent Palazzo Pubblico with its Torre del Mangia. Then you will continue in the direction of the Duomo, one of the most beautiful Italian Gothic Cathedrals in Italy. After leaving Siena, drive to Monteriggioni, the medieval hilltop gem with its walls still intact, where you can relive the atmosphere of olden times, and enjoy a well­
Siena
earned ice cream (April­Oct only). After, move into the Chianti area with its picture­postcard landscapes. You have the chance to taste the best Chianti red wine in a rustic wine estate along with homemade snacks, with a tour of the wine cellars and sampling of wines, oil, and balsamic vinegar. Includes Cathedral entrance, ice cream tasting (in high season), wine estate tour + tastings. Accommodation: Santa Maria Novella (4*) Day 6: Fri, Sep 18 2015 ­ Florence ­ Rome A private vehicle and driver will escort you to the train station today in Florence. Please note drivers may or may not speak English, as their sole responsibility is to transfer clients from one location to another. If you would like to have the presence of an English speaking Assistant or Guide for your transfer, this can be pre­arranged upon request and would be subject to an additional supplement. Enjoy the train ride from Florence to Rome today. Your journey duration is approximately 1.5 hours. A privately driven vehicle will provide a transfer to the train station today. Please note, drivers may or may not speak English, as their sole responsibility is to transfer clients from one location to another. If you would like to have the presence of an English speaking assistant or guide for your transfer, this can be pre­arranged upon request and would be subject to an additional supplement. Piazza Navona
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Accommodation: Hotel Capo d`Africa (4*) Hotel Capo d'Africa Day 7: Sat, Sep 19 2015 ­ Rome You will be picked up from hotel in the morning for guided small group sightseeing tour of Imperial Rome at the world’s most famous arena; the Colosseum. Once able to seat up to 50,000 spectators, building of the Colosseum began in 72 A.D. and was finished 8 years later. The scene of wild entertainments ­ often between man and beast ­ this mighty monument has been immortalized over the centuries. Today you can walk on the ancient stones of the Via Sacra, leading from the Colosseum past some of the most important sites of the Roman Forum to Capitoline Hill. At the Roman Forum you will be at the real political center of the Republic and Imperial Rome. See ancient basilica, triumphal arches, honorary columns, and historic cemeteries. At the center of the Forum, after 20 centuries, it is possible to walk on the same cobble­stones of the Sacred Way, leading to the Capitoline Hill. The Venice Square, where the center rises the monumental complex dedicated to the King Victor Emmanuelle II in 1911. Tour includes: guide, entrance fees and headsets, pick up and drop off. Colosseum
Accommodation: Hotel Capo d`Africa (4*) Day 8: Sun, Sep 20 2015 ­ Rome Visit the Vatican Museums in the Vatican City on this 2.5 hours guided small group tour, and see Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling. Your tour of Rome’s legendary art and architecture starts at the Vatican Museums, housing the most important ancient art collection in the world in some 1,400 rooms. With more than 65,000 works of art it’s would take a lifetime to see everything, but your guide will lead you to the best galleries to see frescoes, statues, tapestries, and historical maps by masters such as Botticelli, Pinturicchio, and Perugino. You will visit then the Saint Peter’s Basilica. Then continue to the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s magnificent ceiling and Last Judgment. Your guide will explain the highlights of the basilica and its significance as the holiest place in Christendom. Tour includes: guide, entrance fees and headsets, pick up and drop off. St. Peter`s Basilica
Accommodation: Hotel Capo d`Africa (4*) Day 9: Mon, Sep 21 2015 ­ Rome ­ Naples ­ Positano A privately driven vehicle will provide a transfer to the train station today. Please note, drivers may or may not speak English, as their sole responsibility is to transfer clients from one location to another. If you would like to have the presence of an English speaking assistant or guide for your transfer, this can be pre­arranged upon request and would be subject to an additional supplement. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a scenic train ride from Rome to Naples today. The approximate travel time is 1 hour and 10 minutes. Enjoy a private vehicle transfer with an English speaking driver from Naples to the Amalfi coast. Taking time to stop off at Pompeii for a 2 hour visit with an English­speaking guide, you will enjoy learning of this historic site. Walk through some of the ancient streets of Pompeii where you can see the baths, forums and villas built by the prosperous Romans in the year 80 BC. Marvel at the fabulously preserved Fresco paintings which adorn the walls and floors of the villas. Even if your interests do not lie in history, you will still be incredibly impressed by this massive archaeological site. This site includes the Amphitheatre, Gymnasium, House of Menandro, The Grand theatre and Small theatre, Gladiators Barracks, Thermal baths and House of Vetti. You will then continue en route to the Amalfi coast. For your convenience, this tour includes the entrance into Pompeii. Positano
Accommodation: Palazzo Murat (4*) Palazzo Murat Page 7 / 12
Day 10: Tue, Sep 22 2015 ­ Positano Today, why not explore the beautiful isle of Capri? Just off the coast of Naples and Salerno, between Cape Miseno and Amalfi, a great rock soars like a dream, lost in the cobalt blue sea that surrounds it. This Mediterranean jewel is the island of Capri. The intoxicating fragrance of flowers, delicate splashes of colour, recollections of a millennial past and a peaceful charm, shattered only by the shrill cry of seagulls, are just some of the magical qualities of this mythical isle. It is very easy to catch a hydrofoil (type of boat) from the pier in Sorrento, taking 20­25 minutes. On arrival, Capri Town can also be reached via a short ride on the Funicular (train) from the Port area. Capri Island
Revel in the breathtaking views upon Mont Solaro ­ the highest place on the island (589 metres above sea level). You have the choice of either walking there, by taking the narrow street at the beginning of Viale Axel Munthe, or by taking the chairlift. Should you wish to relax and enjoy the splendid view of Anacapri and the gulf of Naples, the chairlift is a great option. The chairlift station can be accessed near Piazza Vittoria. Take a 1 hour walk to view one of the most beautiful walks on the island. Admire the lonely Church of S.Maria in Cetrella. Alternatively, it is a 12 minute chairlift ride from Piazza Vittoria. While in Anacapri, consider visiting the villa San Michele, located on the north­eastern side of 'Anacapri, 327 metres above sea level. This is where an ancient Roman imperial villa was, whose ruins were preserved by Axel Munthe. They are now to be found in the garden. Note: Hydrofoil costs approximately 12 Euros per person. A ticket needs to be purchased at the ticket office before boarding the Funicular. Accommodation: Palazzo Murat (4*) Day 11: Wed, Sep 23 2015 ­ Positano Enjoy a private transfer with your own vehicle and driver to Naples airport. Transfer time is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport) Page 8 / 12
ACCOMMODATION Violino D' Oro (3*) ­ Venice The Hotel Violino d’Oro is located right in the heart of Venice, a short distance away from Piazza San Marco and from Teatro la Fenice. The hotel situated in an an 18th century building and is a great place to go to and relax after a day filled with history, art and glamour. Each room is spacious and furnished with Venetian­style décor, with all the best comforts, just perfect for a romantic weekend or for a truly unforgettable vacation. The hotel offers a delicious buffet breakfast every morning for guests to indulge in, with a view overlooking a typical Venetian canal where the gondolas silently sail by, in a magical atmosphere. Room: Canal View The magic begins with the windows opening onto the Canale of San Moisè. You will discover the rest by yourselves... room surrounded by a relaxing atmosphere. Violino D' Oro (3*)
Restaurant Amenities Violino D' Oro (3*) Restaurants You can enjoy breakfast overlooking a typical Venetian canal where the gondolas silently sail by, in a magical atmosphere. This is a great way to start your day, where your senses are aroused by a rich buffet of croissants, hot bread and homemade cakes, mixed cold cuts, mozzarella cheese with tomatoes and other tasty dishes. For guests with celiac disease a delicious gluten free breakfast is served. This request must be made upon reservation. RECREATION AMENITIES Reception
Violino D' Oro Amenities In a quiet corner of the hotel, you will enjoy precious, relaxing moments. On a small terrace away from any noise, you can read your newspaper, get lost in a good book or surf the web on your laptop thanks to the hotel’s WiFi connection. Violino D' Oro
Santa Maria Novella (4*) ­ Florence The Santa Maria Novella Hotel is located only steps away from the central Florence train station and the Piazza of Santa Maria Novella. The property boasts spectacular views of the Santa Maria Novella Cathedral, making this hotel one of the most chic and picturesque squares in all of Florence. Dating back to the nineteenth century, the former Hotel Nazionale has been recently restored under the guidance of Mrs. Marianna Gagliardi, whom spared no expense to provide visitors to Florence with an authentic and up­to­date accommodation option. Guestrooms that compose Hotel Santa Maria Novella are furnished with style, elegance and extreme care of details, offering all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay. The hotel features a breakfast room, fitness center, and sauna for guests’ convenience. Santa Maria Novella
Room: Superior Superior rooms overlook the small streets of the city center or the typical Florentine ancient buildings inner courtyards. Rooms include: Parqueted floor, air conditioning, direct dialing telephone, minibar, safe, satellite TV with LCD screen, writing desk, free LAN and wireless Internet access, boiling kettle, bathroom in marble with tub or shower, courtesy mirror, courtesy beauty­line by the Antica Farmacia di Santa Maria Novella, slippers, and hairdryer. Restaurant Amenities Breakfast Room This elegant 4­star hotel features a spacious, sunlit breakfast room. Offering a wide variation of hot and cold buffet breakfast options and views of the central location in Florence. Superior
RECREATION AMENITIES Page 9 / 12
Fitness Center & Sauna Guests have access to the hotel's fitness and sauna facilities to be both get in a work out, and relax after a day of sightseeing. Terrace
Hotel Capo d'Africa (4*) ­ Rome The Hotel Capo d’Africa Roma is a contemporary designed hotel within a beautiful early 20th century building surrounded by local cafes and shops. The hotel is located under the shadow from the Colosseum, in the heart of Imperial Rome. Other major attractions like the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps are only 10 minutes away. Breakfast is served on the rooftop terrace overlooking lemon trees while enjoying beautiful panoramic views of Rome. Guests staying at the Hotel Capo d’Africa will also have access to a well­equipped fitness facility. With Italian contemporary art work and décor, the guestrooms are equipped with all modern amenities to make guests stay comfortable in the Eternal City. Hotel Capo d'Africa
Room: Superior The Superior Rooms have been designed to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere in shades of soothing colors like ochre and saffron. Wi­Fi, television with satellite, air­conditioning, working desk, as well as a minibar are included in the guestroom. Restaurant Amenities La Terrazza The roof top terrace is a dramatic destination with panoramic views of the Colosseum and city's bell towers. It is the ideal location to relax outside with a drink or to taste authentic Italian cuisine. RECREATION AMENITIES Superior
Fitness Room To help guests relax or tone­up during their stay in the Eternal City, the fitness room is available for all guests and equipped with modern equipment. Hotel Capo d'Africa Terrace
Palazzo Murat (4*) ­ Positano Palazzo Murat Hotel is in the center of Positano. It is tucked away in Donna Carmela’s botanical garden, the “green heart” of the palace, and will be the ideal place for those of you who simply want to enjoy some peace and quiet. For breakfast, you will taste fresh marmalade made with the fruits of the garden’s blooming mandarin, lemon and grapefruit trees. The courtyard is the most exclusive and romantic area of the hotel where you can enjoy a taste of some traditional cuisine from Al Palazzo Restaurant. The guest rooms are unique and special with their perfectly renovated antique furniture. Room: Superior Sunny rooms with a classic taste combined perfectly with all the modern comforts. Located in the new section of the Superior
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hotel, these rooms offer a striking and relaxing view. Restaurant Amenities Al Palazzo Restaurant If you are looking for a very romantic experience, come for a candle light dinner and discover the specialties of the Campanian and Mediterranean cuisine in Donna Carmela’s garden, while surrounded by the scent of citrus fruit. At restaurant Al Palazzo traditional cuisine is preferred and thanks to the products that are grown in the vegetable garden, the restaurant is able to add a contemporary and refined taste to the dishes. There is also a great selection of wines to go along with your meal including over 400 Italian and international labels. RECREATION AMENITIES Palazzo Murat
Swimming Pool Palazzo Murat features an outdoor swimming pool that has a beautiful view of Positano and the Mediterranean Sea. Donna Carmela’s Botanical Garden
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THE FINE PRINT What's Included: Guaranteed departure ­ Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary ­ Local and international traveler assistance during your tour ­ Specialised and personalised services l
What's not Included: Tips ­ Laundry ­ Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted ­ Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) ­ Vacation insurance l
Trip Terms & Conditions Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non­refundable paid fees (e.g. non­refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60­89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30­59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price. l Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary l Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client. l Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes. l Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.privateguided.com/terms­and­conditions l Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation. l
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CONTACT INFORMATION Your Travel Consultant: Jessel Violago AdventureLink
626­296­6477 2400 N Lincoln Ave Altadena, California 91001 Tel: 310­658­5117 Fax: 208­361­1025 Page 12 / 12