Weddings and Honeymoons Hosted Tours Luxury Tours
Transcription
Weddings and Honeymoons Hosted Tours Luxury Tours
Escorted Tours Hosted Tours Bicycle and Hiking Tours Luxury Tours Customized Tours Hotels Group travel Business Travel Weddings and Honeymoons 2005 Brochure w w w. t o u r i t a l y n o w. c o m Index Escorted Tours Charme Sicily Tour ..............................................................4 Classic Italy ........................................................................5 Emerald Amalfi Tour ............................................................6 Enchanting Italy - 10 Day ....................................................7 Enchanting Italy - 11 Day ....................................................8 Enchanting Italy - 12 Day ....................................................9 Grand Tour of Northern Italy ..............................................10 Jewels of the North ..........................................................11 Jolly Sicily Tour ................................................................12 Mini Art Tour ....................................................................13 Mini Northern Tour ............................................................14 Southern Splendor ............................................................15 The Art Circle Tour ............................................................16 Treasures of Italy ..............................................................17 Hosted Tours Italy by Train......................................................................18 Naples & Amalfi ................................................................19 Roma Esclusiva ................................................................20 Rome and Florence ..........................................................21 Bicycle and Hiking Tours Assaggio Toscana - Athletic Beginner ..............................22 Bike Across Italy 1 - Intermediate ....................................23 Bike Across Italy 2 - Intermediate/Advanced ....................24 Giro D'Italia - Intermediate / Advanced..............................26 La Bella Sicilia Est - Athletic beginner ..............................28 Sud Tyroll Roll - Athletic Beginner ....................................29 The Best of Southern Italy - Athletic Beginner ..................30 The Land of Barolo & Truffles - Athletic Beginner..............31 Tuscany and Enchanting Elba - Athletic Beginner ............32 Venice to Bologna - Beginner ............................................33 Amalfi Stroll & Roll - Athletic Beginner..............................34 Tuscan Wanderlust - Athletic Beginner ............................35 Luxury Tours by "Tauck" A Week in ... Rome, Capri and the Amalfi Coast ..............36 A Week in... Italy ..............................................................37 Classic Italy Deluxe ..........................................................38 Tuscany, Umbria and Florence ..........................................40 Venice, Florence and Rome ..............................................41 Customized Tours............................................................43 Hotels ..............................................................................................................44 Group travel ....................................................................................45 w w w. t o u r i t a l y n o w. c o m 2 Tour Type Descriptions Escorted Tours A professional tour director will accompany you and a group of other travelers throughout the Italy vacation tour or your choice. You don't have to worry about transportation and itinerary planning when you book an Italy tour package with us, as we provide a bus and lead the group to most noteworthy sites in the area. Hosted Tours You may not want to spend most of your time with a group, but would like to have someone available to assist you during your trip. A hosted Italy vacation tour includes a knowledgeable, English-speaking local available at your hotel at specific times in order to answer any questions, book optional tours, provide dining recommendations and handle inquiries about transfers. Book this Italy tour package if you would like some assistance during your trip. Bicycle and Hiking Tours What better way to see the country than by taking a bicycle or a hiking Italy vacation tour? If you want a challenge, try a bicycle Italy tour package exploring the twists and turns of Italy or hike through the hills of Tuscany with a hiking Italy tour package. Luxury Tours A luxury Italy vacation tour is the most extravagant way to travel. The highest level of service, a hand-picked selection of exclusive five star hotels, and exciting new travel experiences will make your luxury Italy tour package unforgettable. Customized Tours Anything is possible with a customized Italy vacation tour from Tour Italy Now. You tell us the dates you are interested in traveling, where you would like to go and any special interests you may have. We then create an itinerary just for you. Want to rent a villa, attend a cooking school or get a private tour of the Vatican? We can help you do it with a customized Italy tour package. w w w. t o u r i t a l y n o w. c o m 3 Charme Sicily Tour • 8 days - 7 nights • Escorted Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 SATURDAY - CATANIA SUNDAY - PIAZZA ARMERINA - CEFAL' MONDAY - MONREALE - PALERMO TUESDAY - SEGESTA - ERICE WEDNESDAY - MARSALA - AGRIGENTO THURSDAY - SIRACUSA FRIDAY - MOUNT ETNA - TAORMINA SATURDAY - TAORMINA - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: SATURDAY - CATANIA Arrival at Catania and accommodation at hotel (transfer on request). Welcome drink and meeting with the assistant at 6.30 pm. Evening at leisure and overnight. Day 2: SUNDAY - PIAZZA ARMERINA - CEFAL' After breakfast at the hotel, meeting with the escort (8am) and beginning of the tour. Departure for Piazza Armerina: visit to the Roman Villa del Casale, famous for its magnificent mosaics. Continuation to Cefal' time to explore the characteristic town, famous for its Norman Cathedral. Departure for Palermo. Accommodation at the hotel. Dinner and overnight. Day 3: MONDAY - MONREALE - PALERMO Breakfast at the hotel. Guided tour of Monreale: visit the Cathedral and its golden mosaics and the Benedictine Cloister. Proceed to Palermo and visit Palazzo dei Normanni and Palatine Chapel, the Cathedral, Piazza Pretoria, the Martorana and Villa Malfitano. In the afternoon, visit to a private and ancient aristocratic palace (only with minimum 6 people) or visit to a wine museum. Dinner at restaurant and overnight. Day 4: TUESDAY - SEGESTA - ERICE After breakfast at the hotel, departure for Segesta, the ancient city of the Elimi with the inspiring Doric Temple. Proceed to visit the medieval town of Erice with pastry tasting. Accommodation at the Tonnara Bonagia Hotel. Dinner and overnight. Day 5: WEDNESDAY - MARSALA - AGRIGENTO Breakfast at the hotel. Visit to the salt-pans and the antique mills of Trapani. Break and wine tasting in a Cellar of the famous Marsala. Proceding to Agrigento. Visit the Valley of Temples archaeological park. Accommodation at the hotel and dinner. After dinner, panoramic tour of the illuminated Valley of Temples. Overnight. Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only $2,633 $3,071 $2,264 Departs on Saturday from Catania April 16, 23 May 7, 14, 21, 28 June 4, 11, 18, 25 July 2 September 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 November 5 Special departures on request with supplement 4 Day 6: THURSDAY - SIRACUSA Breakfast at the hotel. Departure for Syracuse: visit the Greek theatre, the Roman amphitheatre and the Baroque island-city of Ortygia with the Cathedral Square and the Arethusa Fountain. Proceed to Taormina. Accommodation at hotel. Dinner and overnight. Day 7: FRIDAY - MOUNT ETNA - TAORMINA After breakfast at the hotel, departure for the excursion to Mount Etna: visit to the extinct craters at 1.900m and stop for a wine tasting. In the afternoon, visit to the Greek Theatre and the historic centre of Taormina. Return to the hotel. Farewell dinner and overnight. Day 8: SATURDAY - TAORMINA - ARRIVEDERCI After breakfast at the hotel, end of services. Included: • Transportation in air-conditioned minibus • 7 nights accommodation in 5 or 4 star Hotels de Charme • Half board, breakfast from the 2nd to the 8th day • English language driver tour escort from the 2nd to the 7th day • Entrance fees for archaeological parks • Visit to a private noble palace (only with minimum 6 people) or to a wine museum • Restaurant dinner in Palermo (specialities of the Palermo area) • Farewell dinner • Pastry tasting • Little gift Not Included: • Porterage • Drinks at meals • Transfer in/out and night supplement Selected Hotels CATANIA PALERMO VALDERICE sea AGRIGENTO TAORMINA Excelsior Grand Hotel (5 star) Centrale Palace (4 star) Tonnara Bonagia (4 star) Baglio della Luna (4 star) Excelsior Palace (4 star) www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Classic Italy Tour • 8 days - 6 nights • Escorted Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 SATURDAY - DEPART US SUNDAY - ROME MONDAY - ROME TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE FRIDAY - VENICE SATURDAY - VENICE - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: SATURDAY - DEPART US Depart US - Overnight on your transatlantic flight to Rome. Day 2: SUNDAY - ROME Our assistant will meet you at Rome's Fiumicino Airport. Transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure to relax or visit the city and enjoy the enchanting scenery. Overnight at the hotel. Day 3: MONDAY - ROME Continental breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast a guided half-day tour of the monuments of Rome. You will visit the beautiful Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Castel S. Angelo and St. Peter's Basilica. Lunch on your own. Afternoon at leisure. Overnight at the hotel. Day 4: TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE Departure from Rome to Florence via Assisi and Siena. Visit the mystic town of Saint Francis still surrounded by the ancient walls. Narrow streets open to the beautiful Basilica of Saint Francis with its early Renaissance masterpieces by Giotto and Cimabue; then proceed on to Siena, the beautiful medieval city renowned for the Palio. Then to Florence. Dinner in a local restaurant and overnight at the hotel. Day 6: THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE Buffet breakfast. Departure for Venice via Padua, where you will visit the Cathedral of St. Anthony. Continue on to Venice and upon arrival enjoy a guided walking tour of the city to see the Basilica and St.Mark's Square, the Doge's Palace and the Bridge of Sighs and then a visit to a glass factory. Dinner and overnight. Day 7: FRIDAY - VENICE Buffet breakfast. Day at leisure for optional tour or for shopping. Dinner and overnight. Day 8: SATURDAY - VENICE - ARRIVEDERCI Continental breakfast at the hotel. Transfer on your own to Marco Polo airport for your departure flight. Special plan available with hotel Metro- pole in Rome. Included: • • • • • • • • • • Accommodation at 4 star hotels of your choice Breakfast daily Meals as per itinerary Service charges and IVA taxes included Ground transportation by deluxe motorcoach Assistant during the tour outside Rome Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary Local guides and entrance fees Transfers as per itinerary Baggage handling included (one piece per person) Day 5: WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE Buffet breakfast. Guided sightseeing tour visiting the beautiful Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John, the Academy of Fine Arts Gallery housing the "David" by Michelangelo, and Santa Croce's church. Rest of the day at leisure. Dinner and overnight. Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only Departs Saturday from March 19 to October 29, 2005 March 19 - July 15 and Sept 1 - Oct 29 July 16 - August 31 $1,466 $1,323 $1,884 $1,692 $1,389 Selected Hotels ROME FLORENCE VENICE www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Genio (4 star) Adriatico (4 star) Principe (4 star) $1,259 Special departures on request with supplement 5 Emerald Amalfi Tour • 5 days - 4 nights • Escorted Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 ROME - NAPLES - POMPEII - SORRENTO SORRENTO - CAPRI - SORRENTO SORRENTO - AMALFI AMALFI AMALFI - POMPEII - ROME Day 4: AMALFI Take the day at your own leisure for optional tour to the Amalfi Coast or for shopping. (B/D/O) Day 5: AMALFI - POMPEII - ROME Take the morning at leisure. Early afternoon transfer to Pompeii for your trip back to Rome. (B) Additional Information : * Accommodations at centrally located hotels * Italian buffet breakfast as per itinerary * Ground transportation provided * Local assistance availabile during the tour * Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (O) Overnight Special departures on request with supplement Selected Hotels SORRENTO AMALFI Day 1: ROME - NAPLES - POMPEII - SORRENTO Departure to Naples, take a panoramic city tour, then continue to Pompeii. Visit the ruins and a Cameo factory, proceed to Sorrento. (L/D/O) Day 2: SORRENTO - CAPRI - SORRENTO Take an excursion to Capri to the Blue Grotto and on to Anacapri for its magnificent views. Take time at your own leisure. Return to Sorrento. (B/L/D/O) Day 3: SORRENTO - AMALFI There is a morning transfer to your hotel in Amalfi by shuttle. After check in at the hotel, take the day at your own leisure. (B/D/O) 6 Hotel Vesuvio (4 star) Hotel Dei Cavalieri (3 Star) or Excelsior (4 star) www.touritalynow.com Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only $965 $1,276 $810 Departs Daily from March 1 to October 31, 2005 Enchanting Italy - 10 Day • 10 days - 8 nights • Escorted Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 FRIDAY - DEPART US - ITALY 2 SATURDAY - ROME 3 SUNDAY - ROME 4 MONDAY - ROME 5 TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE 6 WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE 7 THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE 8 FRIDAY - VENICE 9 SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO 10 SUNDAY - MILAN - US - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: FRIDAY - DEPART US - ITALY Overnight on your transatlantic flight to Rome Day 2: SATURDAY - ROME Upon arrival at Rome's Fiumicino Airport, you'll be met by our assistant for your transfer to the hotel in central Rome. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Rome. Day 3: SUNDAY - ROME After breakfast at hotel, enjoy an escorted morning sightseeing tour of the Monuments of Rome. Visit the Trevi Fountain. Other highlights of the tour includes the enormous Pantheon and St. Peter's Basilica. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Rome. Day 4: MONDAY - ROME After breakfast at hotel, the day is entirely at leisure. Since Rome can be overwhelming in its choice of sightseeing, why not make it easier to appreciate all the best of Rome by selecting one of our optional tours. Overnight in Rome. Day 5: TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE After breakfast at the hotel, depart Rome by deluxe motorcoach through the Umbrian and Tuscan countryside. Visit Assisi, the home of St. Francis. You'll be lead on a guided tour including basilicas, where highlights include masterpieces by the Renaissance painters Giotto and Cimabue. Lunch is on your own. In the afternoon, proceed to Siena in the beautiful Tuscany region. Enjoy a guided tour of Siena's major treasures. Proceed through cypress groves and vineyards of the Chianti country to Florence. Dinner and overnight in Florence. Day 7: THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE After breakfast at the hotel, depart Florence, traverse the Appenine mountains to arrive at Padua for a visit of the magnificent Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua. Proceed to Venice, city of canals, lagoons and gondolas. After check-in at the hotel, enjoy atour of the magnificent Piazza and Basilica of St. Mark. Visit also the elaborate Doge's Palace. Dinner, overnight in Venice. Day 8: FRIDAY - VENICE After breakfast at the hotel, the day is at leisure. Dinner, overnight in Venice. Day 9: SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO After breakfast at hotel, depart Venice for the brief drive to Verona. Enjoy a short visit of this city of Romeo and Juliet, site of the magnificent Roman Arena Amphitheatre. Drive through the Veneto countryside to beautiful Lake Como, a glacial lake nestled in the Alps on the Swiss border. Dinner, overnight in Como. Day 10: SUNDAY - MILAN - US - ARRIVEDERCI After breakfast at your hotel, you'll transfer to Malpensa airport for your return transatlantic flight. Additional Information : • 8 Nights Accommodation in Centrally-located First-Class Hotels • 8 daily Italian breakfasts • Meals as per Itinerary • Service charges and taxes included • Ground transportation via deluxe motorcoach • Assistant throughout tour • Sightseeing as per itinerary with local guides and entrance fees • Arrival and departure transfer • Baggage handling one piece per person www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day 6: WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE After breakfast at the hotel, meet Florence with a guided tour highlighting Florentine treasures: the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Baptistry of St. John, Bell Tower by the Renaissance master Giotto, the Academy of Fine Arts gallery housing Michelangelo's "David", and Santa Croce, housing Cimabue's famed painted Crucifix, and its own centuries-old leather school and shop. This afternoon is free for optional sightseeing such as a half day tour of Pisa. Dinner,overnight in Florence. Price per person Land Only Departs on Fridays March 18, 25 April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 May 6, 13, 20, 27 June 3, 10, 17, 24 July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 August 5, 12, 19, 26 Sept 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 October 7, 14, 21, 28 Special departures on Dbl $1,877 $1,877 $1,877 $1,877 $1,835 $1,835 $1,877 $1,877 request with Sgl $2,502 $2,502 $2,502 $2,502 $2,446 $2,446 $2,502 $2,502 supplement Trl N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Selected Hotels ROME FLORENCE VENICE COMO MILAN River (4 Star) Adriatico (4 Star) Principe or Amadeus (4 Star) Grand Hotel (4 Star) Concorde (4 Star) 7 Enchanting Italy - 11 Day • 11 days - 9 nights • Escorted Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 FRIDAY - DEPART US - ITALY 2 SATURDAY - ROME 3 SUNDAY - ROME 4 MONDAY - ROME 5 TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENNA - FLORENCE 6 WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE 7 THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE 8 FRIDAY - VENICE 9 SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO 10 SUNDAY - LAKE COMO - MILAN 11 MONDAY - MILAN - US - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: FRIDAY - DEPART US - ITALY Overnight on your transatlantic flight to Rome Day 2: SATURDAY - ROME Upon arrival at Rome's Fiumicino Airport, you'll be met by our assistant for your transfer to the hotel in central Rome. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Rome. Day 3: SUNDAY - ROME After breakfast at hotel, enjoy an escorted morning sightseeing tour of the Monuments of Rome. Visit the Trevi Fountain. Other highlights of the tour include the enormous Pantheon and St. Peter's Basilica. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Rome. Day 4: MONDAY - ROME After breakfast at hotel, the day is entirely at leisure. Since Rome can be overwhelming in its choice of sightseeing, why not make it easier to appreciate all the best of Rome by selecting one of our optional tours. Overnight in Rome. Day 5: TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENNA FLORENCE After breakfast at the hotel, depart Rome by deluxe motorcoach through the Umbrian and Tuscan countryside. Visit Assisi, the home of St. Francis. You'll be lead on a guided tour including basilicas, where highlights include masterpieces by the Renaissance painters Giotto and Cimabue. Lunch is on your own. In the afternoon, proceed to Siena in the beautiful Tuscany region. Enjoy a guided tour of Siena's major treasures. Proceed through cypress groves and vineyards of the Chianti country to Florence. Dinner and overnight in Florence. 8 Day 6: WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE After breakfast at the hotel, meet Florence with a guided tour highlighting Florentine treasures: the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Baptistry of St. John, Bell Tower by the Renaissance master Giotto, the Academy of Fine Arts gallery housing Michelangelo's "David", and Santa Croce, housing Cimabue's famed painted Crucifix, and its own centuries-old leather school and shop. This afternoon is free for optional sightseeing such as a half day tour of Pisa. Dinner,overnight in Florence. Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only Departs on Fridays March 18, 25 $1,994 $2,695 N/A April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 $1,994 $2,695 N/A May 6, 13, 20, 27 $1,994 $2,695 N/A June 3, 10, 17, 24 $1,994 $2,695 N/A July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 $1,931 $2,572 N/A August 5, 12, 19, 26 $1,931 $2,572 N/A Sept 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 $1,994 $2,695 N/A October 7, 14, 21, 28 $1,994 $2,695 N/A Special departures on request with supplement Day 7: THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE After breakfast at the hotel, depart Florence, traverse the Appenine mountains to arrive at Padua for a visit of the magnificent Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua. Proceed to Venice, city of canals, lagoons and gondolas. After check-in at the hotel, enjoy atour of the magnificent Piazza and Basilica of St. Mark. Visit also the elaborate Doge's Palace. Dinner, overnight in Venice. Day 8: FRIDAY - VENICE After breakfast at the hotel, the day is at leisure. Dinner, overnight in Venice. Day 9: SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO After breakfast at hotel, depart Venice for the brief drive to Verona. Enjoy a short visit of this city of Romeo and Juliet, site of the magnificent Roman Arena Amphitheatre. Drive through the Veneto countryside to beautiful Lake Como, a glacial lake nestled in the Alps on the Swiss border. Dinner, overnight in Como. Day 10: SUNDAY - LAKE COMO - MILAN After breakfast at the hotel, you'll make the short trip to Milan, Italy's fashion and business capital. Enjoy a panoramic visit of Milan. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Milan. Day 11: MONDAY - MILAN - US - ARRIVEDERCI After breakfast at the hotel, our transfer takes you to Malpensa airport for your return transatlantic flight. Additional Information : • 9 Nights Accommodation in Centrally-located First-Class Hotels • 9 daily Italian breakfasts • Meals as per Itinerary • Service charges and taxes included • Ground transportation via deluxe motorcoach • Assistant throughout tour • Sightseeing as per itinerary with local guides and entrance fees • Arrival and departure transfer • Baggage handling one piece per person Selected Hotels ROME FLORENCE VENICE COMO MILAN River (4 Star) Adriatico (4 Star) Principe or Amadeus (4 Star) Grand Hotel (4 Star) Concorde (4 Star) www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Enchanting Italy - 12 Day • 12 days - 10 nights • Escorted Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 FRIDAY - DEPART US - ITALY 2 SATURDAY - ROME 3 SUNDAY - ROME 4 MONDAY - ROME 5 TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE 6 WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE 7 THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE 8 FRIDAY - VENICE 9 SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO 10 SUNDAY - LAKE COMO - MILAN - BOLOGNA SAN MARINO Day 11 MONDAY - SAN MARINO - PERUGIA - ROME Day 12 TUESDAY - ROME - US - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: FRIDAY - DEPART US - ITALY Overnight on your transatlantic flight to Rome Day 2: SATURDAY - ROME Upon arrival at Rome's Fiumicino Airport, you'll be met by our assistant for your transfer to the hotel in central Rome. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Rome. Day 3: SUNDAY - ROME After breakfast at hotel, enjoy an escorted morning sightseeing tour of the Monuments of Rome. Visit the Trevi Fountain. Other highlights of the tour include the enormous Pantheon and St. Peter's Basilica. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Rome. Day 4: MONDAY - ROME After breakfast at hotel, the day is entirely at leisure. Since Rome can be overwhelming in its choice of sightseeing, why not make it easier to appreciate all the best of Rome by selecting one of our optional tours. Overnight in Rome. Day 5: TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE After breakfast at the hotel, depart Rome by deluxe motorcoach through the Umbrian and Tuscan countryside. Visit Assisi, the home of St. Francis. You'll be lead on a guided tour including basilicas, where highlights include masterpieces by the Renaissance painters Giotto and Cimabue. Lunch is on your own. In the afternoon, proceed to Siena in the beautiful Tuscany region. Enjoy a guided tour of Siena's major treasures. Proceed through cypress groves and vineyards of the Chianti country to Florence. Dinner and overnight in Florence. Day 6: WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE After breakfast at the hotel, meet Florence with a guided tour highlighting Florentine treasures: the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Baptistry of St. John, Bell Tower by the Renaissance master Giotto, the Academy of Fine Arts gallery housing Michelangelo's "David", and Santa Croce, housing Cimabue's famed painted Crucifix, and its own centuries-old leather school and shop. This afternoon is free for optional sightseeing such as a half day tour of Pisa. Dinner,overnight in Florence. Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only Departs on Fridays March 18, 25 $2,242 $2,932 N/A April 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 $2,242 $2,932 N/A May 6, 13, 20, 27 $2,242 $2,932 N/A June 3, 10, 17, 24 $2,242 $2,932 N/A July 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 $2,185 $2,856 N/A August 5, 12, 19, 26 $2,185 $2,856 N/A Sept 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 $2,242 $2,932 N/A October 7, 14, 21, 28 $2,242 $2,932 N/A Special departures on request with supplement Day 7: THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE After breakfast at the hotel, depart Florence, traverse the Appenine mountains to arrive at Padua for a visit of the magnificent Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua. Proceed to Venice, city of canals, lagoons and gondolas. After check-in at the hotel, enjoy atour of the magnificent Piazza and Basilica of St. Mark. Visit also the elaborate Doge's Palace. Dinner, overnight in Venice. Day 8: FRIDAY - VENICE After breakfast at the hotel, the day is at leisure. Dinner, overnight in Venice. Day 9: SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO After breakfast at hotel, depart Venice for the brief drive to Verona. Enjoy a short visit of this city of Romeo and Juliet, site of the magnificent Roman Arena Amphitheatre. Drive through the Veneto countryside to beautiful Lake Como, a glacial lake nestled in the Alps on the Swiss border. Dinner, overnight in Como. Day 10: SUNDAY - LAKE COMO - MILAN - BOLOGNA SAN MARINO After breakfast at the hotel, you'll make the short trip to Milan, Italy's fashion and business capital. You'll enjoy a panoramic tour. Continue to Bologna, one of Italy's most important art cities.Visit the Duomo and the medieval town with its charming squares. Proceed to San Marino, the world's smallest and oldest independent Republic. Dinner, overnight in San Marino. Day 11: MONDAY - SAN MARINO - PERUGIA - ROME After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Perugia, the charming university town. Visit the impressive Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori. Continue to Rome. Overnight. Day 12: TUESDAY - ROME - US - ARRIVEDERCI After breakfast at hotel, our transfer takes you to Rome's Airport for your return flight. Additional Information : • 10 Nights Accommodation in Centrally-located First-Class Hotels • 10 daily Italian breakfasts • Meals as per Itinerary • Service charges and taxes included • Ground transportation via deluxe motorcoach • Assistant throughout tour • Sightseeing as per itinerary with local guides and entrance fees • Arrival and departure transfer • Baggage handling one piece per person Selected Hotels ROME FLORENCE VENICE COMO MILAN SAN MARINO www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE River (4 Star) Adriatico (4 Star) Principe or Amadeus (4 Star) Grand Hotel (4 Star) Concorde (4 Star) Hotel Titano (4 Star) 9 Grand Tour of Northern Italy • 7 days - 6 nights • Escorted Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE FRIDAY - VENICE SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO SUNDAY - LAKE COMO - MILAN - SAN MARINO MONDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 6: SUNDAY - LAKE COMO - MILAN - SAN MARINO Departure to Milan and panoramic tour of the city. Proceed to Bologna: visit the fascinating medieval town and then on to San Marino, one of the world's smallest and oldest independent Republic. (B/D/O) Day 7: MONDAY - ARRIVEDERCI San Marino-Perugia-Rome. Departure to Perugia, the charming University town. Visit the impressing Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori. Proceed to Rome and end of the tour.(B) Additional Information : • • • • • Accommodations at centrally located hotels Italian buffet breakfast as per itinerary Ground transportation provided Local assistance availabile during the tour Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary Day 1: TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE Departure from Rome to Assisi, the medieval and mystic town of St. Francis. Proceed to Siena for panoramic visit. Arrival in Florence. (D/O) Day 2: WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE Guided sightseeing tour of the cradle of Renaissance. Day at leisure. (B/D/O) Day 3: THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE Departure for Venice, stop in Padua for a visit of the Cathedral of St. Anthony. Arriving in Venice, enjoy a guided walking tour of this enchanting town; later, a visit to a traditional Venetian glass factory. (B/D/O) Day 4: FRIDAY - VENICE Day at leisure for optional tour to the surrounding islands or enjoy shopping. (B/D/O) Day 5: SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO Departure to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet; then continue to Como. (B/D/O) 10 Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only $1,565 $1,872 $1,496 Departs Tuesday from March 22 to November 1, 2005 Special departures on request with supplement Selected Hotels FLORENCE VENICE COMO SAN MARINO Adriatico (4 star) Principe (4 star) Grand Hotel (4 star) Titano (4 star) www.touritalynow.com (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (O) Overnight Jewels of the North • 11 days - 10 nights • Escorted Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 THURSDAY - MILAN - BOLOGNA - SAN MARINO 2 FRIDAY - SAN MARINO - PERUGIA - ROME 3 SATURDAY - ROME 4 SUNDAY - ROME 5 MONDAY - ROME 6 TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE 7 WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE 8 THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE 9 FRIDAY - VENICE 10 SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO 11 SUNDAY - LAKE COMO - MILAN Day 1: THURSDAY - MILAN - BOLOGNA - SAN MARINO Depart for San Marino. Stop in Bologna for a visit of the town. Then onto San Marino. (D/O) Day 2: FRIDAY - SAN MARINO - PERUGIA - ROME Depart for Perugia, the ancient University town. Then proceed to Rome. (B/O) Day 3: SATURDAY - ROME In the morning take a guided sightseeing tour of the monuments of the city. (B/O) Day 9: FRIDAY - VENICE Take time at leisure for optional tour to the islands or for shopping. (B/D/O) Day 10: SATURDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE COMO Departure to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, then continue to Como. (B/D/O) Day 11: SUNDAY - LAKE COMO - MILAN Depart for Milan, the tour will take you to the Central Railway station where the tour will end. (B) Additional Information : • • • • • Accommodations at centrally located hotels Italian buffet breakfast as per itinerary Ground transportation provided Local assistance availabile during the tour Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (O) Overnight www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day 4: SUNDAY - ROME In the afternoon take a guided sightseeing tour of ancient Rome. (B/O) Day 5: MONDAY - ROME Take time at leisure for shopping or optional tours. (B/O) Day 6: TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE Depart from Rome to Assisi, the medieval and mystic town of St. Francis. Proceed to Siena for a panoramic visit. Arrive in Florence. (B/D/O) Day 7: WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE Take a guided sightseeing tour of the cradle of Renaissance. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B/D/O) Day 8: THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE Depart for Venice, stop in Padua for a visit of the Cathedral of St. Anthony. Arrive in Venice and enjoy a guided walking tour of this enchanting town. Later visit a traditional Venetian glass factory. (B/D/O) Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only $2,198 $2,615 $2,128 Departs Thursday from March 31 to October 27, 2005 Special departures on request with supplement Selected Hotels SAN MARINO ROME FLORENCE VENICE LAKE COMO Hotel Hotel Hotel Hotel Hotel Titano (4 star) Diana (4 star) Adriatico (4 star) Principe (4 star) G.H. Como (4 star) 11 Jolly Sicily Tour • 8 days - 7 nights • Escorted Tour Day 1 SATURDAY - PALERMO Day 2 SUNDAY - PALERMO - MONREALE Day 3 MONDAY - PALERMO - SEGESTA - ERICE TRAPANI - AGRIGENTO Day 4 TUESDAY - AGRIGENTO - PIAZZA ARMERINA SIRACUSA Day 5 WEDNESDAY - SIRACUSA - RAGUSA - CATANIA Day 6 THURSDAY - CATANIA - MONTE ETNA TAORMINA - MESSINA Day 7 FRIDAY - MESSINA - REGGIO CALABRIA CAPO D' ORLANDO CEFAL' - PALERMO Day 8 SATURDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: SATURDAY - PALERMO Independent arrival at the Jolly Hotel in Palermo. Enjoy a welcome cocktail, dinner and overnight. Day 2: SUNDAY - PALERMO - MONREALE After a buffet breakfast, depart to Monreale to visit the "Duomo" (Cathedral) which is one of the most renowned monuments in the world. Visit the city of Palermo including the Cathedral, the Palatine Chapel in the Royal Palace, as well as a panoramic tour of the historical centre. Lunch at the Jolly Hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the Jolly Hotel. Day 3: MONDAY - PALERMO - SEGESTA - ERICE TRAPANI - AGRIGENTO After a buffet breakfast, depart for Segesta to visit the Doric Temple surrounded by a unique landscape. Lunch at a local restaurant in Erice, a medieval town full of myth and history, art and environment, located at 800 meters above the sea. After lunch, enjoy an orientation tour of Trapani?s salt-mills. Continue to Agrigento. Dinner at Jolly Hotel Della Valle. After dinner, enjoy an unforgettable panoramic tour of the Valley and see the illuminated Temples. Overnight in Agrigento. Day 4: TUESDAY - AGRIGENTO PIAZZA ARMERINA - SIRACUSA After a buffet breakfast, visit the Valley including the Temple of Juneo, Concord, Heracles, Zeus, Castor and Pollux. Continue to Piazza Armerina for lunch in a local restaurant. After lunch, visit the worldwide famous Villa Romana del Casale famed for its well preserved mosaics. Continue to Siracusa. Dinner and overnight at the Jolly Hotel Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only $1,156 $1,408 N/A Departs on Saturday from Palermo April 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 May 7, 14, 21, 28 June 4, 11, 18, 25 July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 August 6, 13, 20, 27 September 3, 10, 17, 24 October 1, 8, 15, 22 Special departures on request with supplement 12 Day 5: WEDNESDAY - SIRACUSA - RAGUSA - CATANIA After a buffet breakfast, visit the Archaeological area including the famous Latomie of the Paradise and the Dyionisios "Ear", and the island of Ortigia, singular treasure of the baroque style. Lunch at the Jolly Hotel in Siracusa. After lunch, depart for Ragusa to visit the capital of Sicilian's baroque style as well as the Medieval Ragusa Ibla. Continue to Catania. Dinner and overnight at the Jolly Hotel. Day 6: THURSDAY - CATANIA - MONTE ETNA TAORMINA - MESSINA After a buffet breakfast, take a panoramic tour of Catania and, meteorological conditions permitting, excursion to Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. Continue to Taormina for lunch. In the afternoon visit the Greek Theatre and enjoy time at leisure for shopping or walking through the tiny streets. Continue to Messina: dinner and overnight at the Jolly Hotel. Day 7: FRIDAY - MESSINA - REGGIO CALABRIA CAPO D' ORLANDO CEFAL' - PALERMO After a buffet breakfast, sea conditions permitting, embark to Reggio Calabria and visit the famous "Bronzi di Riace". Drive along the Tyrrhenian coast and stop in Capo D'Orlando for lunch. Continue to Cefal' pleasant resort well known for its beautiful Norman Cathedral and medieval washhouse built in the rock. Continue to Palermo. Farewell dinner and overnight at Jolly Hotel. Day 8: SATURDAY - ARRIVEDERCI After a buffet breakfast, end of the tour. Includes: • 8 day and 7 night Tour with transportation by deluxe motorcoach • 7 nights accommodation at Jolly Hotels (4 star) • Welcome cocktail • Full board accommodation with buffet breakfast • Assistance of multilingual tour escort • Visits, excursions and meals as per itinerary • Local guides where necessary. • Ferry Messina-Reggio Calabria Messina • Porterage at hotel Not Included: • Transfers in and out • Entrance fees • Drinks at meals Selected Hotels SICILY Jolly Hotels (4 star) www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Mini Art Tour • 4 days - 3 nights • Escorted Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 SATURDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE SUNDAY - FLORENCE MONDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE TUESDAY - VENICE - ROME Additional Information : • • • • • Accommodations at centrally located hotels Italian buffet breakfast as per itinerary Ground transportation provided Local assistance availabile during the tour Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (O) Overnight Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only $749 $868 $703 Departs Saturday from March 26 to October 29, 2005 Special departures on request with supplement Day 2: SUNDAY - FLORENCE Take a guided sightseeing tour of the cradle of Renaissance. (B/D/O) Day 3: MONDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE Depart for Venice via Padua with a visit of the Cathedral of St. Anthony. Arrive in Venice where you will enjoy a guided walking tour of this enchanting town; later, take a visit to a glass factory to see the molding of glass. (B/D/O) Day 4: TUESDAY - VENICE - ROME Take a day at leisure for optional tour to the islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello or for shopping. In the afternoon return back to Rome. (B) Hotels Grifone (3 star) Continental (3 star) www.touritalynow.com Day 1: SATURDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA FLORENCE Depart from Rome to Assisi, the medieval and mystic town of St. Francis. Proceed onto Siena for panoramic visit. Arrive in Florence. (D/O) Selected Hotels FLORENCE VENICE 13 Mini Northern Tour • 4 days - 3 nights • Escorted Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - FLORENCE WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE FRIDAY - VENICE - ROME Day 4: FRIDAY - VENICE - ROME Take a day at leisure for optional tour to the islands of Burano, Murano, and Torcello or for shopping. In the afternoon we will return back to Rome. (B) Additional Information : • • • • • Accommodations at centrally located hotels Italian buffet breakfast as per itinerary Ground transportation provided Local assistance availabile during the tour Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (O) Overnight Price per person Land Only Departs Tuesdays Dbl $851 Sgl $1,040 Trl $810 Selected Hotels FLORENCE VENICE Day 1: TUESDAY - ROME - ASSISI - FLORENCE Departure from Rome to Assisi, the medieval and mystic town of St. Francis. Proceed on to Siena for panoramic visit. Arrival in Florence. (D/O) Day 2: WEDNESDAY - FLORENCE Take a guided sightseeing tour of the cradle of Renaissance. The rest of the day is at leisure. (B/D/O) Day 3: THURSDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE Departure for Venice via Padua with a visit of the Cathedral of St. Anthony. Arrive in Venice, then enjoy a guided walking tour of this enchanting town; later visit a glass factory to see the molding of glass. (B/D/O) 14 Hotel Adriatico or similar (4 star) Hotel Principe or similar (4 star) www.touritalynow.com Special departures on request with supplement Southern Splendor • 8 days - 6 nights • Escorted Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 DEPART US ROME ROME ROME - POMPEII - SORRENTO SORRENTO SORRENTO - CAPRI - ROME ROME ARRIVEDERCI Day 8: ARRIVEDERCI Continental breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Rome's Fiumicino airport for your departure flight. Day 1: DEPART US Overnight on your transatlantic flight to Rome. Day 2: ROME Our assistant will meet you at Rome's Fiumicino Airport. You will be transferred to the hotel. Rest of the day at leisure to rest or visit the city and enjoy the enchanting scenery. Overnight at the hotel Day 3: ROME Continental breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast you will departure for a sightseeing tour of the city by our new and unique Trolley Tour. You will have free time for lunch on your own. Afternoon at your leisure. Overnight. Included: • • • • • • • • • • Accommodation at 4 star hotels of your choice Breakfast daily Meals as per itinerary Service charges and IVA taxes included Ground transportation by deluxe motorcoach Assistant during the tour outside Rome Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary Local guides and entrance fees Transfers as per itinerary Baggage handling included (one piece per person) Day 4: ROME - POMPEII - SORRENTO Continental breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast departure for Naples and enjoy a short visit of the city. Afterwards, continue on to Pompeii and visit the well preserved ruins of the city buried by the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in AD 79. Lunch followed by a visit to the excavations. Continue on to Sorrento with dinner and overnight at the hotel. Day 5: SORRENTO Continental breakfast at the hotel. You will have the day at leisure in Sorrento. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. Day 6: SORRENTO - CAPRI - ROME Continental breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast departure for Capri by steamer, visit the Blue Grotto (weather condition permitting). Visit Anacapri and the piazzetta, the heart of the island's meeting place. Lunch followed by a visit to Augustus Gardens. Departure to Rome for overnight at the hotel. Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only Departs Saturday from March 15 to November 15, 2005 March 16 - July 15 and Sept 1 - Nov 15 July 16 - August 31 $1,139 $1,082 $1,606 $1,530 Special departures on request with supplement Selected Hotels ROME SORRENTO www.touritalynow.com Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 7: ROME Continental breakfast at the hotel. Today you will enjoy a morning tour to the Vatican Museum including the Tapestry Gallery, the Rooms of Raphael, the Sistine Chapel (please no shorts or bare arms) and the Vatican Library. Return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at the hotel. Hotel River (4 star) (4 star depending on availability) N/A N/A 15 The Art Circle Tour • 7 days - 6 nights • Escorted Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 SATURDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE SUNDAY - FLORENCE MONDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE TUESDAY - VENICE WEDNESDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE GARDA - MILAN Day 6 THURSDAY - MILAN - BOLOGNA - SAN MARINO Day 7 FRIDAY - SAN MARINO - PERUGIA - ROME Day 6: THURSDAY - MILAN - BOLOGNA - SAN MARINO Panoramic tour of the city then departure to Bologna. Short visit of the town, then off to San Marino. (B/D/O) Day 7: FRIDAY - SAN MARINO - PERUGIA - ROME Arrival in Perugia, the ancient University town. Then proceed to Rome. (B) Additional Information : • • • • • Accommodations at centrally located hotels Italian buffet breakfast as per itinerary Ground transportation provided Local assistance availabile during the tour Sightseeing tours as indicated in the itinerary Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only $1,389 $1,646 $1,315 Departs Saturdays from March 26 to October 29, 2005 Day 1: SATURDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA Special departures on request with supplement FLORENCE Departure from Rome to Assisi, the medieval and mystic town of St. Francis. Proceed to Siena for panoramic visit. Selected Hotels FLORENCE Hotel Grifone (3 star) Arrival in Florence.(D/O) VENICE Hotel Continental (3 star) MILAN Hotel Alexander (4 star) Day 2: SUNDAY - FLORENCE SAN MARINO Hotel Titano (4 star) Guided sightseeing tour of the cradle of Renaissance. Rest of the day at leisure. (B/D/O) Day 3: MONDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE Depart from Florence, stop in Padua for a visit of the Cathedral of St. Anthony. Arriving in Venice, enjoy a guided walking tour of this enchanting town; later, a visit to a traditional Venetian glass factory. (B/D/O) Day 4: TUESDAY - VENICE A day at leisure for optional tour to the islands or for shopping. (B/D/O) Day 5: WEDNESDAY - VENICE - VERONA - LAKE GARDA - MILAN Departure to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet; then panoramic view of Lake Garda. Proceed to Milan. (B/D/O) 16 www.touritalynow.com (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (O) Overnight Treasures of Italy • 14 days - 12 nights • Escorted Tour Day 1 SUNDAY - DEPART USA Day 2 MONDAY - ROME Day 3 TUESDAY - ROME - NAPLES - POMPEII SORRENTO Day 4 WEDNESDAY - SORRENTO - CAPRI - ROME Day 5 THURSDAY - ROME Day 6 FRIDAY - ROME Day 7 SATURDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE Day 8 SUNDAY - FLORENCE Day 9 MONDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE Day 10 TUESDAY - VENICE Day 11 WEDNESDAY - VENICE - VERONA LAKE GARDA - MILAN Day 12 THURSDAY - MILAN - BOLOGNA - SAN MARINO Day 13 FRIDAY - SAN MARINO - PERUGIA - ROME Day 14 SATURDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: SUNDAY - DEPART USA Depart USA to Rome Day 2: MONDAY - ROME Upon arrival at Rome's Fiumicino Airport, you'll be met by our assistant for your transfer to the hotel in central Rome. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Choose to relax or begin your own personal exploration of The Eternal City. Overnight in Rome. Day 3: TUESDAY - ROME - NAPLES - POMPEII SORRENTO Departure from Rome to Naples where a short visit of the town is featured. Then on to Pompeii, the famous Roman city destroyed by the volcanic eruption of Mt.Vesuvius in 79 AD. Lunch in a local restaurant, and afterwards visit of the escavations. Proceed on to Sorrento. Dinner and overnight at the hotel. Day 4: WEDNESDAY - SORRENTO - CAPRI - ROME Departure to Capri by steamer. Weather conditions permitting visit the Blue Grotta. Return to Marina Grande and then transfer to Anacapri. Lunch in a typical restaurant followed by a visit of Augustus gardens with the view of the Faraglioni. Return to Rome at 9.30pm. Overnight in Rome. Day 5: THURSDAY - ROME After breakfast at hotel, enjoy an escorted morning sightseeing tour of the Monuments of Rome. Visit the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, St. Peter's Basilica. The rest of the day at leisure to enjoy Rome. Overnight. Day 6: FRIDAY - ROME After breakfast at hotel, the day is entirely at leisure. Since Rome can be overwhelming in its choice of sightseeing, why not make it easier to appreciate all the best of Rome by selecting our optional tours. Overnight in Rome. Day 7: SATURDAY - ROME - ASSISI - SIENA - FLORENCE Early morning, departure for Assisi, the mystic town of Saint Francis still surrounded by ancient walls. Visit the Basilica of Saint Francis with its early Renaissance masterpieces by Giotto and Cimabue. Proceed on to Siena, the beautiful medieval city renown for the Palio. Then on to Florence. Dinner and overnight. Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only Departs on Sundays March 20, 27 $2,383 $3,046 N/A April 3, 10, 17, 24 $2,383 $3,046 N/A May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 $2,383 $3,046 N/A June 5, 12, 19, 26 $2,383 $3,046 N/A July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 $2,269 $2,904 N/A August 7, 14, 21, 28 $2,269 $2,904 N/A Sept 4, 11, 18, 25 $2,383 $3,046 N/A October 2, 9, 16, 23 $2,383 $3,046 N/A Special departures on request with supplement Day 8: SUNDAY - FLORENCE Continental breakfast. Guided sightseeing tour of the cradle of the Renaissance. Visit the beautiful Piazza del Duomo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistery of St. John, the Academy of Fine Arts Gallery housing the "David" by Michelangelo, and Santa Croce, the 13th century Franciscan church with Cimabue's famous crucifix. Rest of the day at leisure for optional sightseeing or shopping. Dinner and overnight. Day 9: MONDAY - FLORENCE - PADUA - VENICE Continental breakfast. Departure for Padua, where you will visit the famous Cathedral of St. Anthony, guarded by Donatello's "Gattamelata". Continue on to Venice, and upon arrival enjoy a guided walking tour of this unique city. You will see the Piazza and Basilica of St. Mark, the Doge's Palace, the Bridge of Sighs and the Prisons. Then visit a glass factory to see the molding of glass. Dinner and overnight. Day 10: TUESDAY - VENICE Continental breakfast. Morning at leisure for optional tour to the islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello by motor launch or for shopping. Dinner and overnight. Day 11: WEDNESDAY - VENICE - VERONA LAKE GARDA - MILAN Continental breakfast. Departure to Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet, then a panoramic view of Lake Garda. Proceed to Milano. Dinner and overnight. Day 12: THURSDAY - MILAN - BOLOGNA - SAN MARINO Continental breakfast. Panoramic tour of the city and then departure to San Marino via Bologna, one of Italy's most important art cities. Visit this fascinating medieval town with its charming squares Piazza Maggiore and Piazza del Nettuno. Proceed to San Marino, the world's smallest and oldest independent Republic, founded in the year 301, as a Christian sanctuary. Dinner and overnight. Day 13: FRIDAY - SAN MARINO - PERUGIA - ROME Continental breakfast. Departure to Perugia, the charming university town. Visit the impressive Cathedral and the Palazzo dei Priori. Proceed to Rome and overnight at the hotel . Day 14: SATURDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Departure to USA. www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Included: • 12 nights accommodation • 12 daily Italian breakfasts • Seven meals as per itinerary • Service charges and taxes included • Ground transportation via deluxe motor coach • Assistant throughout tour • Sightseeing as per itinerary with local guides and entrance fees • Arrival and departure transfer • Baggage handling one piece per person Selected Hotels ROME FLORENCE MILAN SORRENTO VENICE S. MARINO Hotel Hotel Hotel Hotel Hotel Hotel Millenium (4 star) Grifone (3 star) Alexander (4 star) Vesuvio or Bristol (4 star) Continental (3 star) Titano (4 star) 17 Italy by Train • 9 days - 7 nights • Hosted Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Day 7: FLORENCE - VENICE Breakfast at the hotel. This morning you will depart on your own to the train station for your journey by train to Venice. Transfer to the hotel on your own. The rest of the day is free. Overnight. DEPART USA ROME ROME ROME ROME - FLORENCE FLORENCE FLORENCE - VENICE VENICE VENICE - ARRIVEDERCI Day 8: VENICE After breakfast at the hotel, you'll enjoy a half day walking sightseeing tour of the city of gondoliers. The rest of the day is free for shopping or sightseeing on your own. Overnight. Day 9: VENICE - ARRIVEDERCI Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer on your own to the airport for your departure flight. • • • • • Day 1: DEPART USA Overnight on your flight to Rome. Day 2: ROME In the morning you will arrive at Rome's airport. Transfer to the hotel. Then you will have the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. Day 3: ROME Breakfast at the hotel. Take a half-day city tour of Monumental Rome. Overnight. 7 nights accommodations at the hotel of your choice Italian buffet breakfast daily Arrival transfer from Rome airport to the hotel Transportation by first class train Sightseeing as indicated in itinerary Not Included: • Hotel supplement for Friday and Saturday stay per night per person in Venice • Hotel supplement for Carnival (January 28 to February 8) in Venice • Air supplement for week end departures Day 4: ROME Breakfast at the hotel. Have the day at your own leisure for an optional sightseeing tour. Day 5: ROME - FLORENCE After breakfast, you'll make your own way to the train station for your journey by train to Florence. Transfer to the hotel on your own. Then you will have the rest of the day free. Overnight. Day 6: FLORENCE Breakfast at the hotel. Take the morning sightseeing tour of the "City of Art". Then the rest of the day is free. Overnight. 18 Price per person Land Only Departs Daily Jan 3 - Feb 28 Mar 1 - 15 & July 16 - Aug 31 Mar 16 - 31 Apr 1 - Jun 30 & Sept 1 - Nov 13 July 1 - 15 Special departures on Dbl Sgl Trl $991 $1,317 N/A $1,105 $1,207 $1,470 $1,592 N/A N/A $1,256 $1,615 N/A $1,233 $1,604 N/A request with supplement Selected Hotels ROME FLORENCE VENICE Hotel Diana (4 star) Hotel Cavour (4 star) Hotel Carlton & Grand Canal (4 star) www.touritalynow.com Included: Naples & Amalfi • 7 days - 6 nights • Hosted Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 NAPLES NAPLES POMPEII - AMALFI COAST AMALFI COAST AMALFI COAST AMALFI COAST ARRIVEDERCI Day 5: AMALFI COAST After breakfast, Take a full day on your own to enjoy the beauties offered by this fabulous place. Day 6: AMALFI COAST Breakfast and a full day at leisure. Day 7: ARRIVEDERCI Private transfer to Naples airport or train station for departure. Included: Day 1: NAPLES Arrival in Naples with a private transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. Overnight Day 2: NAPLES After breakfast the rest of the morning is at leisure. Take a sightseeing tour of the center of Naples where you can discover the Mediterranean atmosphere and the artistic treasures of a European capital of culture. We will then reach the hill of Posillipo, the view of the bay will be unforgettable. Overnight at hotel. Day 3: POMPEII - AMALFI COAST After breakfast, depart for a visit to Pompeii and the Amalfi coast. The ancient city of Pompeii was buried in the year 79 AD by the eruption of Vesuvius, the only active volcano of continental Europe. After lunch proceed without a guide along the Amalfi coast and stop for free time in Sorrento and Amalfi. Take in the panoramic view of Positano. We will drop you at your hotel for your overnight stay. 2 nights in hotel in Naples 4 nights in hotel in Amalfi Airport transfers Transfer from Naples to Amalfi Full-day Pompeii & Amalfi Coast Half-day Naples Assistance Price per person Dbl Sgl Land Only Departs Friday and Saturdays Mar 1 - 31 & $760 N/A Nov 1 - 15 Apr 1 - Jun 30 & Oct 1 - 31 $864 N/A July 1 - Sept 30 $1,002 N/A Special departures on request with supplement Selected Hotels NAPLES AMALFI COAST Trl N/A N/A N/A Mediterraneo or Terminus or Mercure (4 star) Cetus or Excelsior or Conca Azzurra (4 star) www.touritalynow.com • • • • • • • Day 4: AMALFI COAST Breakfast and full day at leisure. 19 Roma Esclusiva • 7 days - 5 nights • Hosted Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 DEPART US ROME ROME ROME ROME ROME - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: DEPART US Overnight on your transatlantic flight to Rome. Day 2: ROME Morning arrival at Rome's airport. Transfer to the hotel. Day at leisure. Overnight. Day 3: ROME Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a half day city tour; sights include the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona and St. Peter's Basilica. Overnight. Day 4: ROME Explore the Eternal City of Rome. Day 5: ROME Explore the Eternal City of Rome. Day 6: ROME - ARRIVEDERCI After breakfast, transfer to Rome's airport for your departure flight. Additional Information : • • • • • 5 night hotel accommodations Italian buffet breakfast daily Round-trip transfers between airport & hotel Half day sightseeing tour of Monumental Rome Hotel service charges and taxes daily Price per person in Dbl Dbl Land Hosted and Air Departs Daily Mar 16 - 31 $989 Apr 1 - May 26 & Sept 1 - Oct 31 $1,323 May 27 - June 30 $1,571 July 1 - Aug 31 $1,422 Nov 1 - 15 $1,043 Special departures on request with supplement Selected Hotels ROME Hotel Brasile (3 star) Price per person in Dbl Dbl Land Hosted and Air Departs Daily Mar 17 - 31 $1,400 Apr 1 - May 26 & Sept 1 - Oct 31 $1,701 May 27 - June 30 $1,949 July 1 - Aug 31 $1,605 Nov 1 - 16 $1,421 Special departures on request with supplement Selected Hotels ROME Hotel Michelangelo (4 star) Selected Hotels ROME Hotel Regina Baglioni (5 star) Price per person in Dbl Dbl Land Hosted and Air Departs Daily Mar 16 - 31 $2,004 Apr 1 - 30 $2,306 May 1 - 26 & Sept 1 - Oct 31 $2,542 May 27 - June 30 $2,790 July 1 - 31 $2,554 Aug 1 - 31 $2,006 Nov 1 - 15 $2,026 Special departures on request with supplement Air and Land Package Price are based on the best available fare at the time of the brochure printing for each single period of the season. Prices might change according to availability. Triple and Single prices available on request. Land only available on request. 20 www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Rome & Florence • 8 days - 6 nights • Hosted Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 DEPART US ROME ROME ROME ROME - FLORENCE FLORENCE FLORENCE FLORENCE - US - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: DEPART US Overnight on your flight to Rome. Day 2: ROME Morning arrival at Rome Airport. Transfer to the hotel. Have the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight. Day 3: ROME Breakfast at the hotel. Take a half-day city tour of Monumental Rome. Overnight Day 4: ROME Breakfast at the hotel. Take the day at leisure, free for optional tours. Day 7: FLORENCE Breakfast at the hotel. You will have the entire day to explore Florence on your own or take an optional sightseeing tour. Day 8: FLORENCE - US - ARRIVEDERCI Depart on your own to the airport for your departure flight. Included: • • • • • • 6 nights accommodations Italian buffet breakfast daily Service charges and taxes daily Transfer from Rome airport to hotel Sightseeing tour in Rome and Florence One way transportation by first class train Price per person Dbl Land Only Departs Friday and Saturdays Jan 3 - Mar 15 $746 Mar 16 - 31 $888 Apr 1 - July 15 & Sept 1 - Nov 15 $927 July 16 - Aug 31 $786 Special departures on request with Selected Hotels ROME FLORENCE Sgl Trl $1,061 $1,222 N/A N/A $1,239 N/A $1,100 supplement Hotel Diana (4 star) Hotel Cavour (4 star) www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day 5: ROME - FLORENCE After breakfast, you'll make your own way to the train station for your journey to Florence. Transfer to the hotel on your own. The rest of the day is free. Overnight. Day 6: FLORENCE Breakfast at the hotel. Take a morning sightseeing tour of the City of Art. The rest of the day is free. Overnight. 21 Assaggio Toscana • Athletic Beginner • 6 days - 5 nights • Bike Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE 1 2 3 4 5 6 Total Mileage:150 Daily Average: 35 SAN DONATO LORO CIUFFENNA AREZZO CORTONA LAKE TRASIMENO ARRIVEDERCI Included: Day 1: SAN DONATO Engulfed by Tuscany's stunning panorama, warm up on a zig zagging ride through olive groves and amidst stone villas. A homemade gelato sampling precedes our introduction to the sights and sounds of this classic tour. Day 2: LORO CIUFFENNA The zigzagging continues as we pedal through the dramatic sun-drenched Pratomagno range where microclimates flourish. We will stop at the Fattoria dei Mandri and visit the old Medici estate and olive oil press. Day 3: AREZZO Zip through olive groves on your way to Renaissance gem Arezzo. We'll have a walking tour of Arezzo's many artistic treasures. Day 4: CORTONA Take a afternoon walking tour of this architectural gem leads us to Roman arches, Etruscan tombs and Renaissance palaces. • • • • • All accommodations Four dinners One light lunch & one picnic Wine tasting walking tours of Arezzo & Cortona Daily cycling clinics Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $120.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Day 5: LAKE TRASIMENO Cross the border to the Green Heart of Italy- Umbria and the blue waters of Lago Trasimeno, where Romans and elephants once roamed. Day 6: ARRIVEDERCI Why not extend your Tuscan journey with a few extra days to see Florence's Renaissance treasures. For those continuing on, we will shuttle you to Cortona's train station after breakfast and assist you with any post tour travel needs. Price per person Land Only May 8, 21 June 5 September 4 October 2 Dbl $2,595 Sgl $2,995 Special departures on request with supplement 22 Trl N/A Selected Hotels FATTORIA DEGLI USIGNOLI RELAIS FATTORIA VIGNALE SAN MICHELE San Donato (2 nights) Chanti (2 nights) Cortona (1 night) www.touritalynow.com Day Day Day Day Day Day • 11 days - 10 nights • Bike Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day 1 SUNDAY - FANO Day 2 MONDAY - URBINO Day 3 TUESDAY - GENGA STAZIONE Day 4 WEDNESDAY - GUBBIO Day 5 THURSDAY - SPELLO Day 6 FRIDAY - SPELLO (REST DAY) Day 7 SATURDAY - TODI Day 8 SUNDAY - ORVIETO Day 9 MONDAY - SORANO Day 10 TUESDAY - PORTO ERCOLE Day 11 WEDNESDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 8: SUNDAY - ORVIETO After descending from Todi we climb for 7 miles along an incredible road. Sunflower fields, vineyards, wheat fields and bright yellow broom line our route. After the Prodo climb, then enjoy an incredible descent to Orvieto. We will have Lunch in Orvieto and then tour underground Etruscan ruins. Day 2: MONDAY - URBINO From Fano we ride into fields and family farm plots. The road begins to twist up and through a river valley. We are on a main road for the last 6 miles and there will be some traffic. Day 10: TUESDAY - PORTO ERCOLE Today we will be visiting Pitigliano, a former Jewish settlement carved out of volcanic tufa rock. In the afternoon we are rewarded with a final downhill ride to the Mediterranean. Day 1: SUNDAY - FANO At 1:00 we meet for a light lunch and intros and a quick spin into the hills along the coast. Day 3: TUESDAY - GENGA STAZIONE After a morning tour of Urbino's Palazzo, we set out for the roughly hewn Le Marche region. The ride passes along a spectacular gorge, the Gola di Furlo and then through wonderful mountain farmland ending near the immense Grotto di Frassasi beneath a gorgeous mountain, visible for miles. Day 4: WEDNESDAY - GUBBIO This morning we will visit the very fascinating Grotte di Frasassi, the largest grottoes in Europe. Following our visit, we go back through Sassoferrato and through the Apennines. Our arrival in Gubbio comes after a tough little climb then an incredible descent towards this charming medieval city. Day 5: THURSDAY - SPELLO We descend from Gubbio to view it from the front. Several wake-up hills and fun downhills through lush landscape work up an appetite for our picnic & game of bocce in Carbonesca. The last third of the ride is up and down through the farmland that surrounds Assisi. Our ride scoots around the base of Assisi and is flat until Spello, where you have one final test, a very steep climb to our hotel. We will then have a cooking demonstration by the young and creative chef, Marco Gubbiotti. Day 6: FRIDAY - SPELLO (REST DAY) Today, there is an optional morning ride or you may take time on your own to explore Assisi & Spello. A shuttle will take the group to Assisi for our walking tour with a local guide. Day 7: SATURDAY - TODI Flat and rolling riding through farmland brings us all the way to Bevagna. After lunch and Bastardo we begin to climb again through vineyards and sunflower and wheat fields. Its spectacular setting merits a climb at the end of the day. Price per person Land Only April 17 May 22 June 26 September 18 October 2 Dbl $3,795 Sgl $4,295 Special departures on request with supplement Trl Day 9: MONDAY - SORANO We head towards the charming village of Civita and then onto Bolsena. Picnic at Bagnoreggio then swim at Capodimonte will leave you refreshed for the climb ahead. The climb to Gradoli and beyond is tough but a fantastic ride along a ridge is our reward. We are in three regions today: Umbria, briefly Lazio and finally Tuscany. This entire region is very rich in Etruscan history. Day 11: WEDNESDAY - ARRIVEDERCI We will shuttle you to Orbetello (Scalo) to catch trains to other destinations in Italy. Or, why not spend a few nights on the Costa di Argento exploring footpaths or relaxing on the beach? Buon Viaggio! Total Mileage: 420 Daily Average: 40 Included: • All accommodations • Eight dinners & two picnic lunches • 1-2 wine tastings • Evening music • Walking tours of Fano, Assisi, underground Orvieto • Visit to Palazzo Ducale in Urbino • Visit to Frasassi grottoes • Cooking demonstration in Spello • Shuttle to train station on last day of trip Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $185.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Selected Hotels HOTEL ELIZABETH SAN DOMENICO ALBERGO FRASASSI BOSONE PALACE LA BASTIGLIA BRAMANTE MAITANI DELLA FORTEZA DON PEDRO Fano (1 Night) Urbino (1 night) Genga (1 night) Gubbio (1 night) Spello (2 nights) Todi (1 night) Orvieto (1 night) (1 night) (1 night) www.touritalynow.com Bike Across Italy 1 • Intermediate 23 • 12 days - 11 nights • Bike Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 SUNDAY - POLIGNANO 2 MONDAY - MARTINA FRANCA 3 TUESDAY - MATERA 4 WEDNESDAY - METAPONTO 5 THURSDAY - POTENZA 6 FRIDAY - BASILICATA 7 SATURDAY - THE CILENTO COAST 8 SUNDAY - THE CILENTO COAST 9 MONDAY - POLLINO NATIONAL PARK 10 TUESDAY - THE HEART OF CALABRIA 11 WEDNESDAY - CITTADELLA DEL CAPO 12 THURSDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 4: WEDNESDAY - METAPONTO The ride starts with a couple of busy miles getting out of town, then turns to a steep, narrow super fun descent for about 3 miles. The road then levels out and gradually descends to sea level in about 25 miles. We start out rolling through groves of enormous ancient olive trees (some of which are said to be over a thousand years old!), pine forests and eventually enter into the land of citrus and eucalyptus trees, making our way through the splendid woodland called "Bosco Pantano del Policoro" down the Ionian Coast. Day 5: THURSDAY - POTENZA Today's route starts with a spectacular roller coaster ride skirting Monte Ignino and the Brandano River Valley. While riding through a World Wildlife Foundation protected forest of pine trees and eucalyptus, we'll encounter breathtaking views of the Lago di Giuliano and tiny hilltop villages. We'll pause to enjoy a picnic of local specialties before we start climbing. Though the climbs are long and tough, the entire route is full of spectacular views in this untouristed area. Day 6: FRIDAY - BASILICATA Today we leave from the Basentino River Valley crossing over Monte Caravino to the Tanagro River Valley to the border of Campania. Day 1: SUNDAY - POLIGNANO A guide and van are at the airport for guests arriving at 12:30 pm. Bike fitting in front of our first hotel at 3 pm before our quick spin up the coast. Early evening cocktails and a leisurely walk around this lovely seaside town. Day 2: MONDAY - MARTINA FRANCA Riding through the land of the curious looking conical shaped houses called Trulli is really a joy! The Pugliese country folk are very superstitious as can be seen from the interesting archaic looking figures and designs painted on the roofs of some trulli. Day 3: TUESDAY - MATERA Today's ride is flat with several long stretches of very straight road. Curiously, we begin to see more of the dry stacked stonewalls dividing farming plots (miles and miles of them) and the farms become much larger as we go along. We will pass the Trulli land between Alberobello and Martina Franca. 24 Day 7: SATURDAY - THE CILENTO COAST Today's ride is a bit difficult, but all the climbing is rewarded at the end with an incredibly blissful 17 mile descent to the coast. We start out rolling along the valley for about 10 miles and turn up into the Cilento and Vallo di Diano National Park. The road winds around through dense forests of pine, beech-wood and the occasional eucalyptus grove. The farmers cultivate olives and apples, and we start to see more grape vines than we had in the Basilicata region. Day 8: SUNDAY - THE CILENTO COAST Today is a beautiful scenic ride along "the other Amalfi Coast", the stretches of beaches the Italians prefer to the more famous and touristy ones farther north. Riding along the narrow cliffs of Cersuta, we are reminded of a local anecdote. Just a couple of miles before we reach Maratea we'll come across a narrow stretch of road called "Torre Apprezzami l'Asino", which means, "Tower of the Pricing of a Donkey." The pass is so narrow that only one donkey can pass at a time. www.touritalynow.com Bike Across Italy 2 • Intermediate Day 10: TUESDAY - THE HEART OF CALABRIA Today's route is extremely curvy with some difficult climbs as we continue to skirt the periphery of the Pollino National Park. We will pass through some of the small towns settled by Albanians who fled from the Turks over 500 years ago. We'll pass through Lungro which is one of the more characteristic of the Albanian villages. Day 11: WEDNESDAY - CITTADELLA DEL CAPO After a pleasant night's sleep at the five-star Palazzo del Capo, your castle by the sea, you will have your choice of riding or spending time at the beach. While riding, we will see more people out and about working their small farm plots or just hanging about. Meet with Ciclismo codirector Mauro Rugiero's extended family and learn more about their lives in this beautiful area of Italy. Included: • All accommodations • Eight dinners and two picnic lunches • Guided walking tour of the Trulli of Alberobello and the Sassi of Matera • One tasting of Castel San Lorenzo and Celento wine • Guided boat tours of illuminated grottos • Full van support • Cycling clinics and one-onone coaching • Native bilingual guides Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $185.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Day 12: THURSDAY - ARRIVEDERCI After breakfast at the hotel we will shuttle you to the Lamezia Airport where you may make connections to Rome or Milan. You can also take a train from Capo Bonifati train station to Rome, taking just under 2 hours. Total mileage: 500+ Daily average: 45-50 Price per person Land Only May 8 June 5 October 2, 16 Dbl $3,895 Sgl $4,395 Special departures on request with supplement Trl N/A www.touritalynow.com Day 9: MONDAY - POLLINO NATIONAL PARK Today's route starts with some seriously tough climbing from the sea and then enters into the Pollino National Park. We wind our way through forests of pine, beach-wood and mountain oak. The town of Castelluccio is reknown for its skillful craftsmanship of copper. The towns of Rotonda on the extra loop option, is famous for the introduction of the red eggplant in Italy. This afternoon we will arrive in Morano Calabro, listed in the directory of the most beautiful towns in Italy. Selected Hotels GROTTA PALAZZESE Polignano a Mare (1 night) VILLA DUCALE Martina Franca (1 night) HOTEL SASSI Matera (2 nights) ALBERGO LA PRIMULA Potenza (1 night) LA CERTOSA Padula (1 night) KINGS HOTEL Palinuro (1 night) VILLA CHETA Maratea (1 night) VILLA SAN DOMENICO Morano Calbro (1 night) PALAZZO DEL CAPO Citadella del Capo (2 nights) 25 Giro D'Italia • Advanced • 15 days - 14 nights • Bike Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 MONDAY - VENICE 2 TUESDAY - VENICE - TAGLIO DI PO 3 WEDNESDAY - TAGLIO DI PO - RAVENNA 4 THURSDAY - RAVENNA TO FLORENCE 5 FRIDAY - FLORENCE (REST DAY) 6 SATURDAY - FLORENCE - AREZZO 7 SATURDAY - AREZZO - CASTIGLIONE DEL LAGO 8 SUNDAY - CASTIGLIONE - SPOLETO 9 MONDAY - SPOLETO (REST DAY) 10 TUESDAY - SPOLETO - ASCOLI PICENO 11 WEDNESDAY - ASCOLI PICENO FONTE CERRETO 12 THURSDAY - FONTE CERRETO - CARAMANICO 13 FRIDAY - CARAMANICO - SCANNO 14 SATURDAY - SCANNO - GAETA 15 SUNDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: MONDAY - VENICE We meet on the patio of our hotel for introductions. Bike fitting and a quick spin. After a stroll along Venice's maze of waterways we enjoy a welcome dinner. Day 2: TUESDAY - VENICE - TAGLIO DI PO Today we begin with a couple of short ferry rides that connect us with the enchanting fishing village of Pellestrina. From here we ride along dikes running high above the rivers and inlets. Day 3: WEDNESDAY - TAGLIO DI PO - RAVENNA Another flat and gorgeous ride that starts out in the Veneto and crosses into Emilia Romagna following a gorgeous dike that snakes its way along a river. As we approach Comacchio, you will notice a bit more tourist activity, as we pass many of the famous "lidi" (beaches) that the Adriatic is known for. After Comacchio we go around an enormous inland lake. We arrive in Ravenna in time to enjoy the incredible mosaics, museum and piazzas close to the hotel. Day 4: THURSDAY - RAVENNA TO FLORENCE Today's ride is the longest ride of the trip with our first real climb. We ride from the Emilia Romagna region to Toscana. From Faenza, the farmland turns to mountain landscape as we zig zag our way to Marradi. The descent down from Vetta La Croce is called La Panoramica, the perfect nickname for a rolling descent towards Fiesole along a ridge that looks out over Monte Morello. Dinner in Firenze. Day 5: FRIDAY - FLORENCE (REST DAY) A free day to see the smaller back roads of Florence. If you want suggestions on what to see or do in Florence, please ask the guides. 26 Day 6: SATURDAY - FLORENCE - AREZZO Today's ride offers a lovely sample of picture-perfect Tuscan landscape. It begins along a bit of a busy road that follows the Arno. We will drop down into that valley with smooth roads lined by olive groves. The climb to Reggello is shaded, steady, lovely and never too steep. This area is known for its delicious olive oil. From Regello the ride is heavenly, curving in and out of the foothills of the Aretina. We slowly loose elevation as we spin through tiny villages. Dinner is on your own. Day 7: SATURDAY - AREZZO - CASTIGLIONE DEL LAGO Today's ride starts in Tuscany and finishes in Umbria. We begin with flat and rolling terrain through wheat and sunflower fields, the route dips up and down through several small villages. In the distances are many tiny hilltowns. The extra loop to Pienza is challenging but absolutely gorgeous with golden hills framed by cypress trees. The descent from Montepulciano is fantastic! Day 8: SUNDAY - CASTIGLIONE - SPOLETO Today is a long ride into Spoleto. We ride through the heart of Umbria with several hills around Lago Trasimeno and then along flat ride to Bevagna. About 10km after passing Torgiano look at the mountains to your left, on a clear day you can see Assisi on the hillside. Continuing our historical tour, we stop at the wine museum in Torgiano, have an optional stop at the ceramic village of Deruta and ride along the ancient Via Flaminia through Bevagna, with its Roman baths covered in elaborate marine mosaics, and Montefalco. Day 9: MONDAY - SPOLETO (REST DAY) You will love this rest day in Spoleto, an Umbrian hill town gem. Spoleto is an ancient city with a contemporary flair. Dinner is on your own. Day 10: TUESDAY - SPOLETO - ASCOLI PICENO Weather permitting, this ride is one of the most spectacular of the trip. We cycle in the Apennines again, this time in an upper plain called Piano Grande. We begin with a short visit to Norcia where you can buy incredible truffle and porcini mushroom sauce at a Da Marco at the opposite side of the main piazza (21km). The first 4km are gentle, then a bit steep and the remaining 10km are steady and not too steep. At the very top you are welcomed by a magnificent view of the Piano Grande and the surrounding peaks. Picnic alla grande! From Piano Grande another climb starts gradually and gets steeper towards the summit. Long descent into Ascoli. www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day 12: THURSDAY - FONTE CERRETO - CARAMANICO Today's ride is truly glorious with cascading descents and plenty of crisp mountain air. We start out climbing towards Campo Imperatore from Fonte Cerreto with exceptional views. We climb again just before Castel Monte and then tadaaaa---the Abruzzo curtain goes up. We continue with a descent and then a short climb to Calascio. We have a short climb to Capestrano, a wonderful village with its Tuscan Piccolomini castle, used as the town hall today. Optional shuttle to Caramanico Terme. Day 13: FRIDAY - CARAMANICO - SCANNO Today's ride offers a taste of the lush yet rugged Maiella, a mountain range that more recently has been made into a national park. Our ride takes us through several charming villages in the morning--each one conveniently placed on top of a hill with valleys separating each. From San Eufemia all the way to the top of the pass, the road gently climbs along the edge of this spectacular chain. From Passo San Leonardo it's a roller coaster descent towards Pacentro and down to Sulmona. From Sulmona we ride 20 more miles along an amazing gorge to the tiny village of Scanno, considered one of Abruzzo's most authentic villages. Day 14: SATURDAY - SCANNO - GAETA From Scanno we begin a challenging zig zagging climb through the Abruzzo National Park, Italy's second largest. The downhill is incredible, with an exhilarating view of Lago Barrea in the distance. We have a 1 h 30 min shuttle to Gaeta, a seaside village with a medieval atmosphere. Tonight we'll celebrate our remarkable Italian journey with a succulent seafood feast and abundant toasts! Price per person Land Only May 16 June 27 September 5, 26 Dbl $4,295 Sgl $4,895 Special departures on request with supplement Trl N/A Day 15: SUNDAY - ARRIVEDERCI We will help you in your pre-departure plans. We highly recommend an excursion to the sleepy volcanic island of Ponza with its emerald water, white sandy beaches and pastel-colored houses. Total mileage: 492 Daily average: 40 Included: • All accommodations • 10 dinners & 3 picnic lunches organized by Ciclismo Classico • 1-2 wine tastings • 3 cycling clinics • Music • Visits with local bike craftsmen • 3 shuttles: Norcia, Capestrano, Gran Sasso, Gaeta Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $200.00 rental cost) • Transport bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Selected Hotels RUSSO PALACE TESSARIN HOTEL DIANA HOTEL SILLA CONTINENTALE MIRALAGO SAN LUCA HOTEL PALAZZO GUIDEROCCHI HOTEL NIDO DELL’AQUILA LA RESERVE HOTEL VITTORIA LE ROCCE Venice (1 night) Taglia di Po (1 night) Ravenna (1 night) Florence (2 nights) Arezzo (1 night) Castiglione del Lago Spoleto (2 nights) (1 night) Ascoli Piceno (1 night) Fonte Cerrato (1 night) Caramanico Terme Scanno (1 night) Gaeta (1 night) www.touritalynow.com Day 11: WEDNESDAY - ASCOLI PICENO FONTE CERRETO Before departing, take a quick spin to see the market behind the main square of Ascoli. Our ride starts out with some traffic for the first 7km; as it begins to climb through a lovely valley the traffic subsides. The uphills are fairly gentle with some steeper sections. After lunch we climb out of Teramo to discover an incredible panorama for miles, the gently rolling hills and fields seem to go on forever. We shuttle 1 hour through the mountain to Fonte Cerreto, a ski resort town in the Grand Sasso. 27 La Bella Sicilia Est • Athletic beginner • 9 days - 8 nights • Bike Tour Day 1 FRIDAY - NOTO Day 2 SATURDAY - NOTO - RAGUSA Day 3 SUNDAY - RAGUSA LOOP - DONNAFUGATA CASTLE - SCICLI Day 4 MONDAY - RAGUSA - CALTAGIRONE Day 5 TUESDAY - CALTAGIRONE S GIOVANNI LA PUNTA Day 6 WEDNESDAY - ETNA HIKE Day 7 THURSDAY - AEOLIAN ISLANDS - SALINA PANAREA Day 8 FRIDAY - AEOLIAN ISLANDS - LIPARI Day 9 SATURDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: FRIDAY - NOTO We meet at the Catania airport and shuttle to our first hotel in Noto. Founded in the IX century BC by the Siculi on "Monte Alveria" Noto was the center of art and culture for a number of different civilizations: Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Arab, Norman, Suevian, Aragonese, and Spanish. Day 2: SATURDAY - NOTO - RAGUSA Today's ride takes us up in the Altopiano Ibleo, a remote and beautiful area. We continue on to the modern Ragusa. An afternoon bath by the pool in the hotel's garden will soothe your legs and relax your muscles after the first full day on the bike. Day 3: SUNDAY - RAGUSA LOOP - DONNAFUGATA CASTLE - SCICLI We start today's ride with a pleasant downhill from the Altopiano Ibleo toward the coast. We stop for a visit of the beautiful Villa Donnafugata, then we continue among carob trees and greenhouses to reach Scicli. After lunch we climb back the valley with great views of Irminio river canyon. In the evening enjoy a walking tour of ancient Ragusa Ibla and dinner in town. Day 4: MONDAY - RAGUSA - CALTAGIRONE Caltagirone, built on three hillocks, was completely rebuilt in 1693 after a terrible earthquake, and has all the characteristics of a 17C Baroque Sicilian town. Take the bus into town or ride your bikes (please keep them securely locked to a post with a lock around the frame). Day 5: TUESDAY - CALTAGIRONE S GIOVANNI LA PUNTA Enjoy a roller coaster ride to Morgantina and walk along the extensive excavations of one of the world's best preserved Greek cities dating back to 600 BC. The Greeks absorbed the city some six centuries later. In 211 BC, it was destroyed by the Romans during tahe Punic Wars and was eventually rebuilt as a Roman city. Price per person Land Only May 27 October 14 Dbl $3,650 Sgl $4,150 Special departures on request with supplement 28 Trl N/A Day 6: WEDNESDAY - ETNA HIKE Take an early van ascent up Mt Etna to hike and see the volcanic area and absorb the magnificent views. On a clear day, see all of Sicily. In the afternoon we shuttle to Milazzo, to catch a quick ferry to Lipari, our volcanic island base for two nights. Day 7: THURSDAY - AEOLIAN ISLANDS - SALINA PANAREA We have a relaxing boat ride with our native seamen through calm, turquoise blue Mediterranean waters to Salina. On bike, we explore the city of Salina. Day 8: FRIDAY - AEOLIAN ISLANDS - LIPARI Geologically, the island of Lipari is quite rugged, with deep caverns, steep cliffs, and splendid views. Here you'll find beautiful scenery, volcanoes, castles, thermal resorts, water sports, and, of course, magnificent beaches. Day 9: SATURDAY - ARRIVEDERCI From Lipari, we'll escort you back to the Catania airport on mainland Sicily to continue your travels to Italy and beyond! Total mileage: 243 Daily average: 29 Included: • • • • • • • • • • All accommodations Five dinners & two lunches (1 picnic) Two wine tastings Cycling clinics Music by local musicians Guided walking tours Three shuttles Visit to Morgantina Hike up Mount Etna Boat ride with locals to remote turquoise coves Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $170.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Selected Hotels VILLA FAVORITA EREMO DELLA GIUBILIANA C. VILLA S. MAURO VILLA PARADISO DELL ETNA VILLA MELIGUNIS Noto (1 night) da Giubiliana (2 nights) Caltagirone (1 night) San(1 night) (3 nights) www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Sud Tyroll Roll • Athletic Beginner • 9 days - 8 nights • Bike Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 SATURDAY - HIGHER VENOSTA VALLEY SUNDAY - LAKE RESIA MONDAY - MID VENOSTA VALLEY TUESDAY - RABLA - BOLZANO WEDNESDAY - HIKE ON THE RENON PLATEAU THURSDAY - BOLZANO - TRENTO FRIDAY - TRENTO - LAKE GARDA SATURDAY - LOOP TO PACENGO SUNDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: SATURDAY - HIGHER VENOSTA VALLEY Shuttle from Bolzano's train station to our hotel in Burgusio. After a short intro meeting we begin the tour with a warm up ride to the towns below Burgusio: Clusio, Laudes and the small fortified village of Glorenza. Day 2: SUNDAY - LAKE RESIA We shuttle to the lower tip of Lake Resia and start our ride on the bike path along its eastern shore. We'll stop in Curon for a look at its partially submerged bell tower. Then off to Nauders in Austria for lunch. After dinner we will relax on the terrace overlooking the valley and enjoy the hotel facilities. Day 3: MONDAY - MID VENOSTA VALLEY On today's ride we go from Burgusio at 3600 ft, to Rabla at 1500 ft in the beautiful Val Venosta/Vinschgau along the River Adige. Most of the itinerary is on country roads, often closed to traffic, winding through apple orchards, pastures and forests. We visit Glorenza, a pefectly preserved 16th century town, and have lunch close to the historical center of Silandro. In the afternoon we arrive in the Hotel Hanswirt in Rabla. Day 4: TUESDAY - RABLA - BOLZANO A relaxing day through the wide lower Venosta valley heading downhill to the regional capital of Bolzano. Take an optional detour to Appiano and Caldaro, visit the winemakers in S. Michele, and in the afternoon take time to wander around the bustling town center of Bolzano with a local guide. Day 5: WEDNESDAY - HIKE ON THE RENON PLATEAU An unforgettable day. We take a cable car from the center of Bolzano to reach the Renon Plateau which we then traverse through wide fields and splendid forests, with a view on the Catinaccio, Rosengarten, and Latemar ranges of the western Dolomites. On our way back there is our first picnic in Oberbozen in the company of beautiful Avelignesi horses and Tibetan lama's. Day 6: THURSDAY - BOLZANO - TRENTO Slowly savor a long, flat ride past vineyards, orchards, rivers and the lovely Lake Caldaro on the "Ciclopista del Sole" (bike path of the the sun). After lunch we'll visit Francesco Moser's bicycle factory and, then enter into the regional capital of Trento and have the opportunity to wander around this ancient Roman town. Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only Departs Saturday from March 19 to October 29, 2005 March 19 - July 15 and Sept 1 - Oct 29 July 16 - August 31 $1,466 $1,323 $1,884 $1,692 $1,389 Day 7: FRIDAY - TRENTO - LAKE GARDA Pedaling on along Adige River through a sea of vineyards, enter Italy's Lake District and stop in culturally diverse Rovereto, built around an imposing Venetian castle. The second part of the day offers two options: A boat ride on the crystal blue shores of the magical Lago di Garda or a longer ride along the Val Lagarina all the way to our stay in the Venetian-inspired Lazise, a special grand finale to our Sud Tyrol excursion. Day 8: SATURDAY - LOOP TO PACENGO A morning ride on the back roads of the lower Garda Lake District that takes us to Cola. We get back for a picnic and wine tasting. In evening we will have a farewell dinner in one of Lazise's finer restaurants. You have two options today. You can choose a shorter easier ride along the "Olive Oil road" in the morning, followed by a relaxing afternoon by the lake. Or you may choose a long ride with a very challenging climb up to Ferrara di Mt. Baldo. Day 9: SUNDAY - ARRIVEDERCI We bid you a fond farewell and shuttle you to the Peschiera del Garda train station. Why not spend a couple of days in Verona, the fair city of Romeo and Juliet, or head to Venezia for a complete sensory immersion. Total mileage: 192 Daily average: 27 Included: • All accommodations • Six dinners & two picnics • Two wine tastings • Cycling clinics • Walking tours of Glorenza, and Bolzano with local guides • Mountain hikes • Evening of local music Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $170.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Selected Hotels CROCE BIANCA HOTEL HANSWIRT HOTEL GREIF ACCADEMIA www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Burgusio (2 nights) Partschins/Rabland (1 night) Bolzano ( 2 nights) Trento (1 night) $1,259 Special departures on request with supplement 29 Best of Southern Italy • Athletic Beginner • 9 days - 8 nights • Bike Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 SUNDAY - POLIGNANO MONDAY - POLIGNANO - ALBEROBELLO TUESDAY - MATERA WEDNESDAY - LOOP RIDE TO METAPONTO THURSDAY - MARTINA FRANCA FRIDAY - LOOP RIDE TO LOCOROTONDO SATURDAY - SAVELLETRI SUNDAY - LOOP TO OSTUNI MONDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: SUNDAY - POLIGNANO A guide and van are at the airport for guests arriving at 12:30pm. Bike fitting in front of our first hotel at 3pm before our quick spin up the coast. Early evening cocktails and a leisurely walk around this lovely seaside town. Day 2: MONDAY - POLIGNANO - ALBEROBELLO Today we have a wonderful first ride through Pugliese towns and farmland to the grottoes of Castellana. For lunch we will stop at the Agriturismo Serragambetta where our host "Zia Nina" will provide a fascinating cooking lesson followed by a sumptuous feast. Our ride today includes a cycling clinic in "beginning gear changing." Day 3: TUESDAY - MATERA On today's roads we spin through manicured farmlands and shady oak groves to Matera, the city of caves. Once we arrive you will have time to explore this amazing city, listed as an official World Heritage Site. Day 4: WEDNESDAY - LOOP RIDE TO METAPONTO This is a great day for bikers who like downhill. We enjoy an early descent to the Ionian Coast. On the way there we will also stop to take in the Greek history of the ruins of Magna Grecia. Day 5: THURSDAY - MARTINA FRANCA Today's roads zig zag through trulli neighborhoods and farmland. We stop in Locorotondo and visit the winery of the Cantina Sociale and the old town center. We go on to Martina Franca for a walk through this baroque town. Upon our arrival in Alberobello, our friends in this "trulli" delightful town will give us a thorough walking tour. Day 7: SATURDAY - SAVELLETRI More olive groves and amazing views as we pedal along the coast to the Fasano and Selva region. Along the way we will stop at the Greek ruins of Egnazia. Day 8: SUNDAY - LOOP TO OSTUNI Today's ride begins flat through Puglia's maze of olive groves. After a tour of a 16th century olive oil museum, enjoy a long, gentle ascent to the town of Cisternino. We continue our ride to Ostuni where we have lunch and a walking tour of this whitewashed town. After lunch we enjoy a long downhill to Masseria S. Domenico. Day 9: MONDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Our early morning shuttle takes you to Foggia where you can make train connections to the rest of Italy. Total mileage: 180 Daily average: 22 Included: • • • • • • • • • All accommodations Six dinners & two picnic lunches Two wine tastings Two live music events Guided walking tour of Alberobello, Ostuni Group shuttle from Bari airport to Polignano Group shuttle from Vieste to Foggia train station Boat ride with local fisherman Visits to olive oil press and pasta making demo Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $170.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Day 6: FRIDAY - LOOP RIDE TO LOCOROTONDO We ride on tiny, winding roads through Valle D'Itria to Locorotondo, a city known for it's white wine, and circular, white washed design. There we will take part in a grand feast at a local farming cooperative, while local musicians serenade us. Price per person Land Only Dbl $3,595 May 1, 15June 4, 11, 18, 25 September 11 Sgl $4,095 Trl $2,264 A 6 day mini tours is also available. It is the same itinerary, but the tour stops on day 6. Special departures on request with supplement 30 Selected Hotels GROTTA PALAZZESE MASSERIA I MONTI MASSERIA SAN DOMENICO HOTEL DEGLI ARANCI Polignano a Mare (1 night) Putignano (2 nights) Fasano (2 nights) (3 nights) www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Land of Barolo & Truffles • Athletic Beginner • 8 days - 6 nights • Bike Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Day 7: VIGNALE MONFERRATO Today we visit the Monferrato area. By lunchtime, we arrive in Vignale where we stop to taste wines in the enoteca there. In the afternoon, we arrive at Montemagno with great views of the surrounding countryside. GAVI GAVI LIGURE ALBA GRINZANE CAVOUR BAROLO ASTI VIGNALE MONFERRATO ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: GAVI Meet in hotel lobby at 1:00 pm for introductions and orientation to the trip. We'll do a bike fitting and then take a short warm-up ride in the hills behind our lovely villa. Our ride for this afternoon will be approximately 10 miles. Day 2: GAVI LIGURE Today we pedal around Gavi, exploring the local castles built by wealthy Genovese families between the 16th and 18th centuries. In the afternoon we enjoy a wine tasting at Enoteca La Cave where they produce red wines like Dolcetto and Gavi DOC. If time permits, on the return to Gavi we will stop to visit the Fort above the center of town. Day 3: ALBA We will take a van shuttle from Novi Ligure to Acqui Terme (1.5 hr drive). After visiting the town, we begin to pedal to Neive. We stop at Nizza Monferrato. The last big hill of the day, along Moscato vineyards, take us to Mango and to our final destination, Alba. Day 4: GRINZANE CAVOUR This morning we pedal in the Alte Langhe (the high area) towards Bossolasco. In the afternoon, we will visit the Enoteca and a wine museum at the Castle of Grinzane Cavour. From here, we will stop by the small shop owned by the Pellissero family and we'll taste their wine, grappa, salami and homemade bread. Day 5: BAROLO We spend about one hour visiting Alba with a local guide. Leaving Alba, we pedal through the vineyards of Barolo and Dolcetto. We stop for a visit and tasting at the Enoteca Regionale di Barolo. Then it's on to La Morra for lunch. In the afternoon, we have a wine tasting at the Azienda Agricola Renato Ratti. Day 6: ASTI We begin our ride to Asti, stopping at Canale to explore the markets and then on to Castello di Govone for a leisurely picnic lunch. The landscape includes a Piazza Alfieri and the Cathedral of San Secondo. Shuttle or ride to Vignale Monferrato. Once we arrive in town, we explore the medieval Centro Storico, Price per person Land Only June 4 September 10, 24 October 7 Dbl $3,695 Sgl $4,195 Special departures on request with supplement Trl N/A Day 8: ARRIVEDERCI We will provide an early AM shuttle to Asti train station (30 min ride) where the group can catch trains to all other destinations in Italy. We will be happy to assist you with your travel plans. Total mileage: 260 Daily average: 37 Included: • • • • • • • All accommodations Evening of local music Guided walking tours of Alba and Asti 5-8 formal wine tastings (many informal) Three cycling clinics Five dinners & two Ciclismo Classico picnics Shuttle to train station in Asti on Day 8 Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $155.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Selected Hotels VILLA SPARINA GAVI GRAND HOTEL NUOVE TERME PALAZZO FINATI SANT’UFFIZO www.touritalynow.com Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day (1 night) Aqui Termi (1 night) Alba (3 nights) Cioccaro di Penango (2 nights) 31 Tuscany and Elba • Athletic Beginner • 9 days - 8 nights • Bike Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 THURSDAY - SAN DONATO IN FRONZANO-FIGLINE FRIDAY - SAN DONATO LOOP SATURDAY - SAN DONATO - SIENA SUNDAY - SIENA MONDAY - SIENS - VOLTERRA TUESDAY - LOOP TO SAN GIMIGNANO WEDNESDAY - ELBA THURSDAY - ELBA (OPTIONAL REST DAY) FRIDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: THURSDAY - SAN DONATO IN FRONZANO-FIGLINE We have a rolling ride to Regello where there are great pastry and ice cream shops. Take a warm-up to ride to make sure all the gears and breaks work. If you feel like getting a good work out you can also try the climb to Vallombrosa. Day 2: FRIDAY - SAN DONATO LOOP Today's ride explores an often overlooked but intriguing part of Tuscany, The Pratomagno. From San Donato the ride is heavenly & easy through Reggello, curving in and out of the foothills of the Aretina. We are following the "Via di Sette Ponti", street of the seven bridges, a road used since the times of the Etruscans. Day 3: SATURDAY - SAN DONATO - SIENA This may be considered the classic Chianti route winding through the heart of the Chianti wine region and across the "Monti di Chianti". We start with a panoramic climb up to the top of Passo Sugame, a favorite climb for local cyclists. We climb to the village of Panzano. From Panzano we descend along a lovely ridge before dipping down into a quiet river valley dotted with ancient stone farmhouses. We climb 200 meters up to the charming village of Radda in Chianti. From Radda we have the option of an uphill ride to Castello di Brolio. From Castello di Brolio we descend to the village of Pianella. Day 4: SUNDAY - SIENA Today is a rest day in Siena. There is an optional loop ride out of Siena in the morning for those interested in cycling. We will have an afternoon walking tour with our local guide and a wine tasting at a local enoteca. Day 5: MONDAY - SIENS - VOLTERRA Today's ride offers an entirely different side of the Tuscan landscape. Begin with a rolling ride to Sovicille. Climb again as we cross the valley and head up into La Volterrana. The panorama opens its arms wide with views for miles across to "Le Colline Metallifiere" -literally mineral-rich hills. After our picnic it's on to Volterra, a delightful Etruscan hill town that is perched at the summit of a hefty. Price per person Land Only May 726 June 9 September 22 Dbl $3,650 Sgl $4,150 Special departures on request with supplement 32 Trl N/A Day 6: TUESDAY - LOOP TO SAN GIMIGNANO OPTIONAL REST DAY. We have an afternoon walking tour of Volterra and there are many archaeological sites in the area to be explored by foot or by bike. The loop ride is to San Gimignano, one of Tuscany's best-preserved medieval cities. Day 7: WEDNESDAY - ELBA We begin with a glorious descent from the heights of Volterra and down for 5 miles. The land is much more rugged than the hills of Chianti, today we are heading toward an area in Tuscany known as La Maremma. We take a 60-minute ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio. From Portoferraio we cycle 6 more miles to our hotel overlooking a peaceful bay. Day 8: THURSDAY - ELBA (OPTIONAL REST DAY) The entire loop is about 38 miles and fairly challenging but spectacular. You will be seeing two different faces of Elba one linked to the island's maritime tourism and the other reflecting its long history of mining, especially of iron. Today we cycle through Porto Azzurro towards the northernmost town on the island, Cavo. Day 9: FRIDAY - ARRIVEDERCI After breakfast we provide one group shuttle to the port in Portoferraio to catch the ferry back to the mainland. If you decide to leave at a later time, you can take a cab. Please allow 3-6 hours to get to your post-tour destination. Total mileage: 240 Daily average: 30 Included: • • • • • • • • • • • All accommodations Six dinners & two Ciclismo Classico picnics A cooking demonstration Two wine tastings One visit to an olive oil press Three cycling clinics One evening of music Two scheduled tours with local guides Shuttle from Figline train station to the Fattoria Shuttle from Elba hotel to Portoferraio Ferry ticket from Portoferraio to Italy’s mainland Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $170.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Selected Hotels FATTORIA DEGLI USIGNOLI VILLA PATRIZIA PARK HOTEL LE FONTI VILLA OTTONE San Donato in Fronzano (2 nights) Siena (2 nights) (2 nights) (2 night) www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Venice to Bologna • Beginner • 9 days - 8 nights • Bike Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 THURSDAY - VENICE FRIDAY - VENICE - ROVIGO SATURDAY - ROVIGO - FERRARA SUNDAY - LOOP FROM FERRARA MONDAY - FERRARA - RAVENNA TUESDAY - LOOP FROM RAVENNA WEDNESDAY - RAVENNA CASTROCARO TERME Day 8 THURSDAY - CASTROCARO - BRISIGHELLA FAENZA Day 9 FRIDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: THURSDAY - VENICE We meet at our hotel in Lido di Venezia for introductions and a quick spin. In the afternoon we stroll along Venice's maze of waterways, have a break for a spritz in one of Venice's campi (squares) and take a unique insider's look at Venice. Our welcome dinner is followed by a late night stroll to Piazza San Marco. Day 2: FRIDAY - VENICE - ROVIGO Today we are cycling in the Veneto region. We begin with a couple of short ferry rides that connect us with the enchanting fishing village of Pellestrina. From Pellestrina we take a ferry to Chioggia with its bustling market along the canals. Our point of arrival, the town of Rovigo, is located between the rivers Po and Adige, two of the longest Italian rivers. Day 3: SATURDAY - ROVIGO - FERRARA We ride through Polesine area. We'll ride along the canals once used to bonify the land, now used as watering canals and pass through Fratta Polesine, with it's elegant Villa Badoera. In the afternoon we arrive in Ferrara, one of the centers of Italian Renaissance history and an outpost of papal power in the north. Day 4: SUNDAY - LOOP FROM FERRARA Optional quiet morning loop in the fields around Ferrara, along some canals, and through opulent and rich farmhouses. Afternoon walking tour of the town: Castello Estense, Cathedral, medieval Via delle Volte. Then an unforgettable wine tasting experience at the oldest winery in the world! Day 5: MONDAY - FERRARA - RAVENNA Today we wind our way through orchards of fruit trees and along the shores of a canal en route to our fabulous Ciclismo Classico picnic! In the afternoon we make our way to Ravenna. Heir to the Roman Empire, the port of Classis (later Ravenna) was one of the only European cities to prosper during the Dark Ages. Day 6: TUESDAY - LOOP FROM RAVENNA Walking tour of Ravenna in the morning. There will be plenty of time today to explore this once strategic Roman port. Be sure to visit the Piazza del Popolo, Ravenna's famous mosaics in the Church of San Vitale, Price per person Dbl Sgl Trl Land Only $3,595 $4,095 N/A May 12 September 22 A 6 day mini tours is also available. It is the same itinerary, but the tour stops on day 6. Special departures on request with supplement the covered market, the leaning towers and the tomb of Dante! Loop ride from Ravenna to Sant Apollinaire in Classe. Day 7: WEDNESDAY - RAVENNA - CASTROCARO TERME We ride through the Emilia-Romagna region. The ride is gorgeous, spinning through endless fruit orchards along tiny farm roads to a special farmhouse lunch hosted by our friends. After lunch we finish up our ride to Castrocaro terme. Day 8: THURSDAY - CASTROCARO - BRISIGHELLA FAENZA Ride through rolling hills with breath-taking views to Brisighella. Then roll down to Faenza, where we'll visit La Vecchia Faenza ceramic laboratory, where the artisans will show us how they paint and decorate the finest potteries in the world. In the afternoon ride back to Castrocaro and relax. Day 9: FRIDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Morning shuttle to train station in Bologna-- a very centrally located hub of activity. We will assist you with your travels to other parts of Italy or Europe. Buon Viaggio! Total mileage: 180 Daily average: 22 Included: • All accommodations • Six dinners • One picnic & a lunch hosted by our local farmer friends! • Cooking lesson • Cycling clinics • Music • Tours with local guides • Early morning shuttle to Bologna railway station Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at additional $170.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Selected Hotels RUSSO PALACE REGINA MARGHERITA ANNUNZIATA HOTEL DIANA GRAND HOTEL TERME DI CASTROCARO www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Lido di Venezia (1 night) Rovigo (1 night) Ferarra (2 nights) Ravenna (2 nights) (2 nights) 33 Amalfi Stroll & Roll • Athletic Beginner • 9 days - 8 nights • Hike & Bike Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 FRIDAY - POSITANO SATURDAY - MONTEPERTUSO SUNDAY - CAPRI - VILLA JOVIS MONDAY - AMALFI - RAVELLO TUESDAY - VALLE DEI MULINI WEDNESDAY - PAESTUM - CASTELLABATE THURDAY - MERCATO CILENTO - VATOLLA FRIDAY - VELIA SATURDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: FRIDAY - POSITANO We meet on the terrace of our first hotel overlooking the bay. We begin with a short hike above the town of Positano to the faction of Li Parlati. This evening, our hosts Costantino and Angela prepare a delicious homegrown "welcome" feast served family style in the dining room of our charming cliff side hotel. Day 2: SATURDAY - MONTEPERTUSO After breakfast, we hike north through olive groves and farmland to the hamlet towns of Montepertuso (365m), and Santa Maria di Castello (635m). Our afternoon hike brings us to treetop level before descending back down to Positano. Day 3: SUNDAY - CAPRI - VILLA JOVIS We take an early morning ferry (1hr) to Capri. From Capri's port we walk on pedestrian lanes up to Villa Jovis, Tiberius' summer playground, and site of our relaxing lunch time picnic. Day 4: MONDAY - AMALFI - RAVELLO After breakfast, we walk down to sea level for a boat shuttle to Amalfi. Once in Amalfi, we enjoy a private guided walking tour of this maritime republic. After lunch, we begin a leisurely walk to the coastal town of Atrani and then hike the Lattari hills from Atrani to Ravello. (362m) We arrive in Ravello in late afternoon to explore the 12th Century cathedral and gardens! Dinner on your own. Day 5: TUESDAY - VALLE DEI MULINI Visit the Duomo in Ravello in the morning, then hike through chestnut groves between Ravello and Amalfi, through S. Caterina (526m) and Scala (377m). Visit the 12th Century church in Scala. Lunch in Pontone (136m). Day 6: WEDNESDAY - PAESTUM - CASTELLABATE After breakfast shuttle down the coast to Paestum. Enjoy a guided tour of Paestum's famously preserved 4th Century Greek temples. After lunch we cycle along quiet rolling coastal roads to Agropoli and then to our final destination of San Maria di Castellabate. Price per person Land Only May 6 September 9, 30 Dbl $3,395 Sgl $3,895 Trl N/A A 6 day mini tours is also available. It is the same itinerary, but the tour stops on day 6. Special departures on request with supplement 34 Day 7: THURDAY - MERCATO CILENTO - VATOLLA We begin the day by cycling inland along rolling hills. After lunch we gear up for our return ride to Castellabate in the afternoon. In the evening we head to La Giacaranda for an elegant and informative cooking lesson and a wonderful dinner. Day 8: FRIDAY - VELIA After breakfast, we cycle from San Maria di Castellabate to Acciaroli. We take a break for a Ciclismo Classico picnic extravaganza! In the afternoon you may choose to return to San Maria by bike or van shuttle, where we have arranged an olive oil tasting at a local "enoteca". This evening we will have a festive farewell dinner at the elegant Giacaranda Inn. Day 9: SATURDAY - ARRIVEDERCI Morning shuttle from San Maria to Agropoli to meet connecting trains, buses or rental cars. You may also arrange for a van driver. Total Mileage: 128 Daily Average Mileage: Walk 5, Bike 25 Included: • • • • • • • • • • • All accommodations All breakfasts and six dinners Two lunches Neapolitan cooking lesson Traditional Neapolitan music Visit to a limoncello factory in Amalfi Guided tour of Amalfi by local guide Wine/olive oil tastings Guided visits of two former Greek settlements Cycling clinics Shuttle to Agropoli train station on last morning Not Included: • A 27-speed lightweight road or 24-speed hybrid bicycle (available in Italy at an additional $100.00 rental cost) • Transport of bike case (for guests who bring their own bike; shipping available in Italy for additional fee) • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc) • Guide tip Selected Hotels LA FENICE GIORDANO VILLA SIRIO Positano (3 nights) Ravello (2 nights) San Maria del Castellabate (3 nights) www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A 3GLANCE Tuscan Wanderlust • Athletic Beginner • 8 days - 7 nights • Hike Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE through woods to the bottom of the valley, cross the river and climb up the other side to come in view of Sant Antimo (305m, 1000ft). After lunch, we continue our walk up to the walled Etruscan village of Montalcino (532m, 1745ft). We visit the medieval fortress and enjoy a wine-tasting in its well-known enoteca. An excellent dinner at our favorite restaurant awaits! 1 2 3 4 5 6 CORTONA CORTONA PIENZA BAGNO VIGNONI RIPA D'ORCIA - MONTALCINO MONTALCINO LOOP - MONTE OLIVETO MAGGIORE Day 7 SIENA Day 8 ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: CORTONA Welcome meeting at 1:00pm in the lobby of our hotel and begin an afternoon guided tour through the Etruscan-Roman village of Cortona (1600 ft above sea level). We check out the four well-preserved city gates (oriented to the four points of the compass) and embark on our first climb into the hills above and below Cortona to admire two exquisite Renaissance churches Santa Maria Nuova and Santa Maria delle Grazie. Joining the locals, we take a "passeggiata" along a remaining Etruscan wall. Day 2: CORTONA Along today's walk we start in Cortona (650m, 2130ft) and traverse the undulating slopes of Monte Sant Egidio, taking in awesome views of the Valdichiana plains below. We take a break on top of the mountain (107m, 3470ft) for our Ciclismo Classico picnic lunch. Returning to Cortona (650m, 2130ft), we have some free time to visit the outstanding local Etruscan and renaissance art museums. Day 3: PIENZA Our day begins with a quick shuttle and visit to Montepulciano (650m, 2130ft). We visit one of the masterpieces of early Italian renaissance, the church of S Biagio by architect Sangallo. From here, we begin our hike through field and gentle hills towards Montichiello (544m, 1785ft). After lunch, we continue towards Pienza (500m, 1640ft) through the phenomenal "crete" landscapes. In the evening Italian lesson and dinner with Roberto at our favorite local trattoria. Day 4: BAGNO VIGNONI With stunning Mount Amiata in our sights we hike from Pienza (490m, 1610ft) in to the Val d'Orcia and pass cypress trees and grain fields on our way to San Quirico (425m, 1395ft). We climb up out of town to explore the Tower of Vignoni Alto (Vignoni on High) before winding down to a well-earned splash in the soothing baths in the tiny spa town of Bagno Vignoni (306m, 1005ft). Van shuttle to Pienza. Day 5: RIPA D'ORCIA - MONTALCINO Today we move from the western to the eastern side of the Orcia region. From Pienza, a quick shuttle takes us to Ripa d'Orcia (408m, 1340ft). We start our walk down Price per person Land Only April 24 May 8, 22 June 5 September 11, 25 October 9 Dbl $2,985 Sgl $3,385 Special departures on request with supplement Trl N/A Day 6: MONTALCINO LOOP - MONTE OLIVETO MAGGIORE We start out from tiny old farmer's village of Monterongriffoli. In the morning we walk for two hours along a partially shaded rolling path with nice views over the Crete Senese, the area's very characteristic barren landscape of natural erosion. After lunch we walk for one more hour to Monte Oliveto, and visit the monastery. Evening cooking lesson in Montalcino. Day 7: SIENA Quick shuttle to Siena. In the late afternoon, our local Sienese friend takes us on a walking tour of the Cathedral and enchanting Piazza del Campo, explaining the city's interesting social and political history and customs. Take the afternoon to explore the city. Day 8: ARRIVEDERCI Why not extend your Tuscan journey with a few extra days in Siena or a visit to see Florence's Renaissance treasures For those continuing on, we will shuttle you to Siena's train station after breakfast and assist you with any post tour travel needs. Total mileage: 48 Daily average: 6 Included: • • • • • • • • All accommodations Five dinners & two picnic lunches 1-2 wine tastings Italian lessons Evening of traditional local music Guided tours of Cortona, Siena, Montichiello Shuttles while on tour Shuttle to Siena train station at end of tour www.touritalynow.com Day Day Day Day Day Day Not Included: • Wine and alcoholic beverages • Most lunches • Airfare • Transfers to the starting point or from the finishing point unless specified; we can assist you in planning and arranging for any necessary shuttles • Helmets (Bring your own, Can not be rented in Italy) • Personal expenses (laundry, supplies, phone calls, etc.) • Guide tip Selected Hotels SAN MICHELE CHIOSTRO DI PIENZA HOTEL VECCHIA OLIVIERA ATHENA Cortona (2 nights) Pienza (2 nights) Montalcino (2 nights) Siena (1 night) 35 A Week in ... Rome, Capri and the Amalfi Coast • 8 days - 7 nights • Luxury Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 centuries. In the late 19th century, Alex Munthe, an eccentric Swedish doctor, set about exploring the ruins of Capri’s Roman palaces and villas, eventually building his beautiful Villa San Michele atop some of them. Visit his villa, located in the town of Anacapri, before arriving at a private villa overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea; enjoy a lecture on contemporary Italian society. ARRIVE IN ROME AMALFI - POSITANO POMPEII - CAPRI CAPRI NAPLES ROME ROME ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: ARRIVE IN ROME Tour departs: Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino one hour after the arrival of our selected flight(s). Welcome to Italy, where magnificent beauty and centuries of history intertwine around every bend of the road. Travel southward from Rome through the beautiful landscapes of the Campania countryside that lead to the Amalfi coast. Your home for the next two nights, near the picturesque town of Positano, clings to steep cliffs overlooking the sparkling blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner. Day 2: AMALFI - POSITANO Journey along the spectacular Amalfi coast, one of Europe’s most beautiful shorelines. The road twists and turns in sharp angles as it faithfully follows the ragged edges cut by the dramatic coastline. Brightly colored houses hug the cliffs amidst lush gardens and olive-green slopes, hovering over the clear sea below. Arrive in the town of Amalfi, a powerful naval center in Byzantine times; many of its historic buildings were built from the 10th to the 13th centuries. The deep ravines and majestic hills lead next to Ravello, dramatically overlooking the Gulf of Sorrento. Visit exquisite 13th-century Villa Rufolo, renowned for splendid gardens; former residents include popes and composer Richard Wagner. Day 3: POMPEII - CAPRI In AD 79 the terrible eruption of Mount Vesuvius completely buried the fashionable city of Pompeii, a Roman commercial center, in a blanket of ash and pumice stone. For centuries the town lay abandoned until the well-preserved, poignant ruins of many shops, townhouses and paved streets were unearthed. Today they present a most vivid picture of life in the first century. A guided visit through the remains of the ancient city includes Teatro Grande, capable of seating 5000, and Teatro Piccolo; Tempio di Iside, dedicated to the Egyptian goddess Isis; and Villa dei Misteri, featuring one of the ancient world’s largest paintings, the Dionysiac Frieze. Intricate details of craftsmanship that have survived include mosaics, murals and frescoes. Travel by hydrofoil to the enchanting Isle of Capri, where images of romantic grottoes along its jagged coast have been captured in books and films for decades. As a special Tauck feature, spend two nights on Capri to enjoy the pleasures of a less-crowded island after the last ferry carrying the “daytrippers” departs for the mainland. Day 4: CAPRI Explore Capri’s historic legacy and natural beauty today. In AD 27 Rome’s Emperor Tiberius retired to Capri – and his private existence became the subject of speculation for Price per person Land Only May 1, 8, 15, 22 June 5, 12 August 28 September 4, 11, 18, 25 October 2, 9, 16, 23 36 Dbl $3,330 Sgl $4,121 Trl $2,973 Special departures on request with supplement Day 5: NAPLES Depart this morning for the mainland and one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, Naples. The city is large – it is Italy’s third-largest – and sprawling. A sightseeing tour shows you many of Naples’ landmark sights including the lovely Posillipo, a volcanic hill that runs along the Gulf of Naples; the district of Santa Lucia, home to the unusually shaped Castel dell’ Ovo; magnificent Piazza del Plebiscito; Teatro San Carlo, Italy’s oldest and largest opera house; and Castel Nuovo, built in the latter part of the 13th century and still in governmental use today. Visit the renowned Museo Archeologico Nazionale, featuring one of the world’s most impressive collections of Greco-Roman artifacts. Depart mid-day via the high-speed Eurostar train for three nights in Rome. Day 6: ROME For more than 2500 years the city of Rome has played an intricate role on the stage of world events, from politics to the arts. Sightseeing takes you on a journey through history, viewing landmarks such as Piazza Barberini, showcasing Bernini’s sensual fountain; Palazzo del Quirinale; Piazza Colonna; Piazza Venezia, featuring a monument commemorating Italian unification; Trajan’s Forum; San Pietro in Vincoli to view Michelangelo’sstatue Moses; Imperial Palaces; the Circus Maximus; Temple of Vesta and the Synagogue. Walk through the magnificent ancient ruins of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum, once the “theatre” of Roman gladiators. Spend the remainder of the day as you please. Day 7: ROME Your visit to the Vatican will be a highlight of your stay in Rome! View the vast collection of art and antiquities in the Vatican Museums; a guided tour takes you to the Candelabra Gallery, Map Gallery and the Tapestries. Visit the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s ceiling fresco – depicting the history of the creation – overlooks Italian art masterpieces. Visit St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter’s Square, memorable highlights of Vatican City. We invite you to join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner. Day 8: ARRIVEDERCI Tour ends: Rome’s Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino 2 1/2 hours before the departure of our selected flight(s). Persons departing at other times should secure their own transportation to the airport. Additional Information : Transatlantic air is additional. Selected Hotels POSITANO Le Agavi Hotel a Positano (Night 1,2) CAPRI Grand Hotel Quisisana (Night 3,4) ROME Hotel Splendide Royal (Night 5,6,7) www.touritalynow.com Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day A Week in... Italy • 8 days - 6 nights • Luxury Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 ARRIVE IN ROME - TODI ASSISI - UMBRIA - TODI SIENA - TUSCANY - FLORENCE FLORENCE ROME ROME ROME ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: ARRIVE IN ROME - TODI Tour departs: Rome's Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino one hour after the arrival of our selected flight(s). The lush countryside surrounding small towns built into the hills of Central Italy's Lazio and Umbria regions gradually appears as you travel north from Rome. Arrive in Orvieto, set high on a hill blanketed in vineyards; visit the colorful Piazza Duomo, and enjoy lunch at a typical trattoria. See one of Italy's greatest cathedrals, with glistening mosaics on its facade; magnificent art blends with striking architecture! View the scenic Tiber Valley en route to the medieval hill town of Todi, where artifacts and architecture reflect its ancient Etruscan and medieval heritage. Join us for a welcome reception and dinner. Day 2: ASSISI - UMBRIA - TODI A visit to Assisi, dramatically built right into the side of a hill, is memorable. The inspirational Basilica di San Francesco is filled with frescoes detailing the life of St. Francis, who resided in 13th-century Assisi. The architectural details of centuries-old buildings are stunning, laden with flowers cascading from wall sconces. Explore charming shops set amidst quaint cobblestone streets and lanes. Dining in Italy is a celebration of food; travel to the rural countryside for a "cucina genuina" luncheon at a family-run restaurant. Return to Todi late in the afternoon, traveling through scenic Umbrian landscapes; the remainder of the day is free. Relax at one of Todi's charming restaurants, or pursue your own interests in this medieval town. Day 3: SIENA - TUSCANY - FLORENCE Travel through the lush landscapes of Tuscany to visit one of the region's most beautiful towns, Siena. Begin in the Piazza del Campo, Siena's central square shaped like an amphitheatre. Twice a year the Sienese celebrate their rich medieval heritage with the running of a horse race called the Palio around this square. Spend a few hours exploring the town and perhaps the Duomo. The cathedral's green, pink and white marble exterior is surpassed only by the exquisite black and white marble geometric patterns found inside. Journey to Florence, city of art and the birthplace of the Renaissance. Join us for a visit to the Galleria dell'Accademia, home of Michelangelo's David. Enjoy a lecture this evening by a local art historian. Price per person Land Only March April 24 May 22, 29 June 12, 26 July 10, 24 August 21 September 4, 11, 25 October 2, 16 November 13 Special departures on Dbl $2,650 $2,890 $2,890 $2,890 $2,890 $2,890 $2,890 $2,890 $2,650 request with Sgl Trl $3,182 $2,440 $3,422 $2,680 $3,422 $2,680 $3,422 $2,680 $3,422 $2,680 $3,422 $2,680 $3,422 $2,680 $3,422 $2,680 $3,182 $2,440 supplement Day 4: FLORENCE Today is yours to discover the wonderful treasures of Florence. Special reservations have been made for you to visit, at your leisure, the world's greatest masterpieces of art in the extraordinary Uffizi Gallery. You might take a stroll across the ancient Ponte Vecchio; visit the Palazzo Pitti, residence of the Medici Grand Dukes; see the Duomo, featuring one of the world's largest domes; or stop at the beautiful Renaissance-style gardens of the Giardino di Boboli. Day 5: ROME Leave enchanting Florence and travel by high-speed Eurostar train to Rome, capital of Italy and the ancient world. Following lunch you will see Piazza Barberini, showcasing Bernini's incredible fountain; Palazzo del Quirinale; the Piazza Venezia; Trajan's Forum; Imperial Palaces; Michelangelo's statue of Moses at San Pietro in Vincoli; Circus Maximus; Temple of Vesta and the Synagogue. Walk through the ancient Roman Forum, and envision gladiators at the Colosseum, then spend the remainder of the day as you wish. Day 6: ROME No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the Vatican, which is the world's smallest independent nation. View the vast collection of art and antiquities found in the Vatican Museums; a guided tour takes you to the Candelabra Gallery, Map Gallery and the Tapestries. The highlight is a visit to the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo's breathtaking ceiling fresco, depicting the history of the creation, overlooks masterpieces by Italy's greatest artists; visit St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square, and enjoy an afternoon spent at your leisure in Rome. Dine tonight at a local trattoria. Day 7: ROME The entire day is free to spend as you please. Reservations have been made for you to visit, at your leisure, Galleria Borghese, which features works by Italy's Renaissance and Baroque artists. Galleria Borghese is located near the Via Veneto, which is one of Rome's most glamorous boulevards. We invite you to join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner. www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day 8: ARRIVEDERCI Tour ends: Rome's Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino 2 1/2 hours prior to the departure of our selected flight(s). Persons who are departing other times should secure their own transportation; a taxi is approximately 75 Euros (US $85). Additional Information : Transatlantic air is additional. Selected Hotels TODI Hotel Fonte Cesia (Night 1,2) FLORENCE Grand Hotel Minerva (Night 3,4) ROME Grand Hotel Parco dei Principi (Night 5,6,7) 37 Classic Italy Deluxe • 14 days - 13 nights • Luxury Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 ARRIVE ROME - SORRENTO 2 AMALFI COAST 3 POMPEII - ROME 4 ROME 5 ROME 6 ORVIETO - TORGIANO 7 ASSISI 8 TUSCANY - SAN GIMIGNANO - PISA 9 CINQUE TERRE - FLORENCE 10 FLORENCE 11 FLORENCE 12 VENICE 13 VENICE 14 ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: ARRIVE ROME - SORRENTO Tour departs: Rome's Leonardo da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino one hour after the arrival of our selected flight(s). Travel through the fertile Campania countryside, around the Bay of Naples, and past Mount Vesuvius to the lively southern Italian resort town of Sorrento. Your hotel is ideally located in a tranquil garden setting above the sea. The afternoon is free to rest in your garden-view room or relax by the pool. Enjoy a welcome reception followed by dinner. Day 2: AMALFI COAST The drive along the Amalfi Coast is one of the most spectacular drives in the world, with breathtaking scenery around every bend. Fantastic rock formations drop vertically into the sea; sub-tropical vegetation on the hillsides, together with colorful Mediterranean flora, create enchanting landscapes. Seaside villages of Positano and Amalfi are a delight to see, as is Ravello, which offers panoramic views of the coast. Return to Sorrento in the early evening to explore the piazzas and small alleys of this fascinating old town. 38 Day 3: POMPEII - ROME Pompeii was a prosperous city of 30,000 inhabitants until it was completely buried by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD; excavations began in the 18th century and are still in progress today. Walk through Pompeii to discover the way of life in ancient Italy – visit the temple, the forum and a home adorned with frescoes. Arrive late afternoon in Rome, where you'll spend the next three nights; your hotel is centrally located on the fashionable Via Veneto, one of Rome's most prestigious addresses. Day 4: ROME Experience Vatican City, a state and a city all in one! Visit the Vatican Museum and see Michelangelo's masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel. Also visit St. Peter's Basilica and St. Peter's Square; in and around the square are Swiss guards, young Roman Catholic citizens of Switzerland wearing Renaissance-style uniforms in the bright colors of the Medici Popes. You can linger at the Vatican or you can return to your hotel; the afternoon and evening are free. You may wish to shop the fashionable boutiques along the Via Condotti or relax at a sidewalk café. Day 5: ROME City sightseeing includes the Roman Forum and a visit to the Colosseum, plus the ruins of the Imperial Palace and Circus Maximus. The afternoon is at leisure, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Dine tonight at a local trattoria in Rome, one of Italy's many culinary pleasures! Day 6: ORVIETO - TORGIANO Arrive in Orvieto, set high on a hill volcanic in origin, blanketed in vineyards. Visit the Duomo, one of Italy's greatest cathedrals; the façade is a visual treat, a blend of sculpture and mosaic splashed with a palette of colors and magnificent bronze doors. Inside, view inspiring frescoes created by renowned artists. Following a traditional trattoria lunch near the Piazza del Duomo, continue through Umbria, a wine-growing region. Arrive in Torgiano, a small village in the Tiber Valley, where you will experience Italian country life for the next two nights. Your accommodation is a 17thcentury patrician home featuring wooden beams, terracotta floors, and a wine museum of the Lungarotti family. Day 7: 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. They built St. Francis Basilica, which today houses some of Italy's great 13th-and 14thcentury frescoes. Return to Torgiano for the evening. www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day 9: CINQUE TERRE - FLORENCE Cinque Terre was accessible only by sea for hundreds of years. Five picture-book fishing villages are found between the Mediterranean's blue waters and the rugged coastal mountains. Visit this unique region, which has remained untouched for centuries; the small population, numbering about 7,000, lives by fishing and agriculture (vineyards, citrus fruit, olives); they remain strongly attached to their old world traditions. Journey on to the Renaissance city of Florence, where great art and architecture whisper the history of the ages. Day 10: FLORENCE In no other city did the arts flourish as they did here between the 13th and 16th centuries. Attend an in-depth briefing given by an art history lecturer who is from a local university, followed by a visit to Galleria dell'Accademia, the home of Michelangelo's David. Spend the remainder of the afternoon and evening at leisure exploring Florence. Day 12: VENICE Travel by rail this morning to Venice, an unusual city built on 118 small islands and traversed by some 100 canals. Transfer by canal boat to your hotel, which is located near St. Mark's Square; after lunch, embark on a walking tour. Visit St. Mark's Basilica, built more than 900 years ago, as well as the sumptuous Doges' Palace, which was the official residence of the elected officials of the former Venetian Republic. Day 13: VENICE The entire day is free to do as you please, perhaps people-watching from a café in St. Mark's Square or walking along the narrow streets and lanes where you will see Murano glassware, lace and jewelry – just a few of the items that are made in and around Venice. We invite you to join us this evening for a reception and farewell dinner. Day 14: ARRIVEDERCI Tour ends: Venice's Marco Polo Airport 2 1/2 hours prior to the departure of our selected flight(s). Transfer by motor launch from the hotel to the airport. Persons departing other times should secure their own transportation to the airport. A water taxi from the hotel is approximately US $85. Additional Information : Transatlantic air is additional. Day 11: FLORENCE The entire day is free to pursue your special interests in Florence. Your hotel is ideally located within a few blocks of some of the world's greatest treasures – Pitti Palace, the famous bronze doors of the Baptistry, and the Uffizi Gallery. For three centuries, Florence was the cradle of an inspired, intellectual and artistic population. Home to Dante, Giotto, Machiavelli, Botticelli, da Vinci, Raphael, Brunelleschi and other important figures of the Renaissance, it is a mecca for art lovers. Special reservations have been made for you to visit the Uffizi Gallery. Price per person Land Only Dbl March 16, 23, 28 $4,995 April 6, 13, 20, 25, 27 $5,680 May 2, 7, 16, 21, 30 $5,680 June 1, 8, 20, 22 $5,680 July 6, 13, 20, 27 $5,680 August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 $5,680 September 5, 10, 17, 24$5,680 October 3, 5, 12, 19, 26 $5,680 November 2, 14 $4,995 Special departures on request with Sgl Trl $5,840 $4,566 $6,616 $5,225 $6,616 $5,225 $6,616 $5,225 $6,616 $5,225 $6,616 $5,225 $6,616 $5,225 $6,616 $5,225 $5,840 $4,566 supplement www.touritalynow.com Day 8: TUSCANY - SAN GIMIGNANO - PISA Tuscany is an enchanting region, where for centuries the beauty of nature has blended with the ingenuities of humans; the hilltop town of San Gimignano is one of its gems. Medieval towers, built in the 12th century by the nobility, are visible from afar. Stroll along the quaint streets and visit Piazza della Cisterna, one of Italy's finest town squares. Travel through the lush Tuscan countryside to the ancient Roman city of Pisa for a brief visit before arriving at your hotel. Selected Hotels SORRENTO Grand Hôtel Excelsior Vittoria (Night 1,2) ROME The Westin Excelsior (Night 3,4,5*) TORGIANO Hotel Le Tre Vaselle (Night 6,7) VIAREGGIO Principe di Piemonte (Night 8) FLORENCE Hotel Brunelleschi (Night 9,10,11) VENICE The Westin Europa & Regina (Night 12,13) *Tour of May 18 will stay at the St. Regis Grand. 39 Tuscany, Umbria and Florence • 9 days - 8 nights • Luxury Tour ITINERARY AT A GLANCE 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Day 5: FLORENCE Two choices await this morning; visit Palazzo Pitti, housing the great art treasures of the Medicis, and the magnificent Boboli Gardens, a masterpiece of Italian landscaped gardens. Alternatively, visit the central food market in Florence accompanied by a local chef; you’ll glean a remarkable view of one of the great pleasures of day-to-day life in Florence. The remainder of the day is free. ARRIVE ROME - MONTERIGGIONI MONTALCINO - SAN GIMIGNANO SIENA FLORENCE FLORENCE TUSCANY SPOLETO - ASSISI PERUGIA Capital of Umbria ARRIVEDERCI Day 1: ARRIVE ROME - MONTERIGGIONI Tour departs: Rome’s Fiumicino Airport one hour after the arrival of our selected flight(s). Drive along scenic country roads lined with sunflowers, towering cypress and rolling hills, stopping for lunch in Pienza in the heart of Tuscany. Continue to your hotel, which is set in the foothills of the medieval fortress of Monteriggioni; join us tonight for a welcome reception and dinner. Day 2: MONTALCINO - SAN GIMIGNANO Two choices await this morning. One takes you on a scenic pilgrimage to the hilltop town of Montalcino where one of Italy’s finest red wines is produced; enjoy a walking tour along streets boasting well-preserved 14th- and 15th-century architecture, stopping at a local restaurant for a wine tasting lunch. Or, you can travel to the hilltop town of San Gimignano; medieval towers, built in the 12th century, are visible from afar. Stroll along the quaint streets and visit Piazza della Cisterna; enjoy lunch with a wine tasting. Return to Monteriggioni for a bicycle trip through the Tuscan countryside; the evening is spent at your leisure in this delightful town. Day 3: SIENA Travel to the captivating city of Florence via Siena, where you select between two guided walking tours. Discover “Artistic Siena,” so beautifully displayed within the medieval state rooms at Palazzo Pubblico and at the Museo dell’Opera del Duomo. “Historic Siena” comes alive on a walking tour that takes you to the home of Italy’s patron saint, Casa di Santa Caterina; the Palazzo Piccolomini, which houses a pictorial history of Siena; and the Torre del Mangia, adjacent to the Gothic Town Hall. Both walks visit Siena’s Duomo, one of the most spectacular early Gothic cathedrals in Italy, and the Piazza del Campo – paved in red brick and marble, it is the site of a festive bi-annual horse race dating back to the Middle Ages. Arrive in Florence for a three-night stay; a dine-around tonight offers you a selection of three Tuscan restaurants that are true culinary delights! Day 4: FLORENCE A lecture by an art historian precedes a tour of the Uffizi Gallery, featuring some of the greatest works by great Renaissance artists such as Botticelli, Michelangelo, Tintoretto, Bellini and Titian. Explore the museums or landmark sites of Florence as you wish this afternoon and evening. Price per person Land Only Dbl $2,990 Sgl $3,422 Trl $2,838 April 11 May 1, 9, 15, 23, 29 June 6, 15, 26, July 10, 18 August 7, 24 September 4, 12, 18, 26 October 2, 5, 10, 19 Special departures on request with supplement 40 Day 6: TUSCANY Travel into the heart of Italy for a three-night stay in Bettona. Your journey into the Tuscan countryside begins in the Etruscan city of Cortona, featured in Under the Tuscan Sun. A walking tour includes a visit to the Museo Diocesano, housing Fra Angelico’s famous painting Annunciation. Enjoy a Tuscan cooking demonstration and lunch at a gastronomic school in a 15th-century house. Day 7: SPOLETO - ASSISI Travel to Spoleto for a guided walk through its historic streets; admire the 15th-century frescoes in the spectacular Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta before exploring the picturesque town at your leisure. Visit the beautiful medieval town of Assisi, dramatically built into the side of the hill; Basilica di San Francesco will be a memorable sight. Return to Bettona for an evening to be spent as you please. Day 8: PERUGIA Capital of Umbria Discover the “Green Heart of Italy” on a visit to the medieval town of Perugia, its capital. A guided walking tour reveals within its city walls architectural treasures such as the duomo and Oratorio di San Bernardino. Visit the Lungarotti wine museum and vineyards in Torgiano this afternoon, and enjoy a wine tasting. We invite you to join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner. Day 9: ARRIVEDERCI Tour ends: Rome’s Fiumicino Airport 2 1/2 hours before the departure of our selected flight(s). For your convenience, there will be two transfers to Rome today – a very early morning transfer to Rome’s Fiumicino Airport for those guests returning on selected TauckAir flights, and a mid-morning transfer to the city of Rome, which will make stops at three centrally-located hotels. Additional Information : Price includes all sightseeing in the itinerary plus choices as specified; choices are not transferable to other days unless indicated. Transatlantic air is additional. Selected Hotels MONTERIGGIONI (ROME) FLORENCE BETTONA (UMBRIA) Hotel Il Piccolo Castello (Night 1,2) Hotel Bernini Palace (Night 3,4,5) Relais La Corte di Bettona (Night 6,7,8) www.touritalynow.com Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Venice, Florence and Rome • 10 days - 9 nights • Luxury Tour Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Day 1 ARRIVE IN MILAN - LAKE LUGANO 2 LAKE COMO - BELLAGIO 3 VENICE 4 VENICE 5 FLORENCE 6 FLORENCE 7 SIENA - ROME 8 ROME 9 ROME 10 ARRIVEDERCI Day 2: LAKE COMO - BELLAGIO Lake Como is often considered the most dramatic and alluring of the Italian lakes. The Alps form a breathtaking backdrop against which the expanse of the lake is radiant. Ferry across this majestic lake to the "pearl" of Lake Como, Bellagio; its picturesque setting has made it the locale of some of the area's most beautiful villas, the subject of artists and writers for centuries. Explore at your leisure before traveling to Tremezzo and a visit to Villa Carlotta. An elegant 18th-century summerhouse, it is renowned for its magnificent landscaped gardens and works of sculpture. Return to Lugano, where the evening is free. Day 3: VENICE Travel today to Venice, one of the world's loveliest cities; witness its unique design, along an intricate system of canals, to its amazing history dating back to the Middle Ages. Following lunch, and with the expert eyes of a local guide, enjoy a guided walking tour of the city's highlights. Discover the treasures of Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square), the center of Venice. Visit one of the greatest buildings in Europe, dramatic St. Mark's Basilica, which features exquisite mosaics and detailed carvings; it is a blend of Eastern and Western inspirations. You will also visit the sumptuous Doges' Palace, which was the official residence of the rulers of Venice in the Middle Ages; a collection of art treasures includes Paradise by Tintoretto and Age and Youth by Veronese. Day 1: ARRIVE IN MILAN - LAKE LUGANO Tour departs: Milan's Malpensa Airport one hour after the arrival of our selected flight(s). Travel through the beautiful landscapes of northern Italy to Switzerland and the stylish city of Lugano; your hotel is located along the shores of beautiful Lake Lugano. This "Italian" city features a waterfront promenade, stylish boutiques and outdoor cafés that are set along the lake. Enjoy some time at leisure to explore the city on your own; you might visit Cattedrale di San Lorenzo, with its baroque interior, or the fascinating Museo Cantonale d'Arte, featuring works by famed artists such as Renoir and Klee. The best way to see the lake is aboard a cruise, calling on little villages that lie along the shoreline. We invite you to join us tonight for a welcome reception and dinner. Day 4: VENICE Visit one of Italy's most respected museums, Galleria dell'Accademia, featuring one of the world's largest collections of Venetian art; artists include Bellini, Titian and Tintoretto. Ranging from the medieval period through the Renaissance, Baroque and beyond, these works chronicle the achievements of the Venetian school. Spend the remainder of the day exploring Venice; possibilities include museums such as the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which features an extraordinary collection of modern art; housed in an 18th-century palazzo, it is one of Venice's most interesting, and most visited, sites. www.touritalynow.com ITINERARY AT A GLANCE Day 5: FLORENCE Travel by rail across the plains of the historic Po River to Florence, set in the pastoral Italian countryside. Called the "Birthplace of the Renaissance" for the architecture and art that flourished between the 13th and 16th centuries, Florence is a delight for art lovers. A lecture by an art historian provides a good introduction to landmark sites such as the magnificent bronze doors of the octagonal-shaped Baptistry. The artist Ghiberti took more than 20 years to create two sets of these fascinating bronze doors, declared by the artist Michelangelo to be the "Gates of Paradise." 41 Day 7: SIENA - ROME Journey through the Chianti region, world-famous for its red wine. Quintessential landscapes feature olive groves, vineyards, cypresses, medieval towns and many examples of timeless art and architecture. Journey to medieval Siena, and walk to the Piazza del Campo, a beautiful shell-shaped square that is the site of the Palio, Siena's well-known biannual horse race. Wander through the narrow streets to visit the Duomo, a cathedral that is a black and white marble masterpiece. Travel through the green countryside of Tuscany and Lazio to Rome, known as the "Eternal City." Spend the next three nights at one of Europe's premier hotels, which is centrally located right in the heart of Italy's exciting capital city. Day 9: ROME No trip to Rome would be complete without a visit to the Vatican, a state and city all in one; see a vast collection of treasures in the Vatican Museum. Enter the Sistine Chapel to view Michelangelo's famous ceiling and the Last Judgment. These magnificent frescoes were recently refurbished and can be admired in their original fresh colors. Visit St. Peter's Basilica before spending the afternoon as you please pursuing your special interests in Rome. We invite you to join us this evening for a farewell reception and dinner. Day 10: ARRIVEDERCI Tour Ends: Rome's Leonardo Da Vinci Airport in Fiumicino 2 1/2 hours prior to the departure of our selected flight(s). Persons departing at other times should secure their own transportation. Taxi is approximately 75 Euros (US $80). Additional Information : Transatlantic air is additional. www.touritalynow.com Day 6: FLORENCE Join us for a visit to one of the world's most acclaimed art museums, the Galleria dell'Accademia, home of Michelangelo's famous statue David. Reservations have also been made at the Uffizi Gallery this morning to view many of the world's wonderful works of art at your leisure. The masterpieces of the Pitti Palace? Michelangelo's marble creations in the Medici Chapels? A stroll across the famous Ponte Vecchio or perhaps just restful contemplation in the beautiful Boboli Gardens? The list of inspiring sights and activities is endless! The remainder of the day is free to spend as you please; most of these sights are located fairly close together and are easy to get to. Florentine arts and crafts are known for their high quality; the many small shops and galleries throughout the city are a delight. Day 8: ROME The home of the powerful Roman Empire, Rome has influenced art, architecture, literature and government throughout the western world for more than 2,000 years. This morning you'll experience this rich history as a local guide shows you the most important sights. See the Quirinale Palace, Piazza Venezia, Roman Forum, Colosseum and other landmarks; remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore Rome. Price per person Land Only Dbl $4,990 April 1 May 6, 16, 23 June 3, 10, 13, 20, 24 July 1, 8, 22 August 5, 19 September 2, 5, 9, 16, 19, 23, 30 October 3, 7, 14, 21, 28 Sgl $6,403 Trl $4,270 Special departures on request with supplement 42 Selected Hotels LUGANO (Switzerland) Grand Hotel Eden (Night 1,2) VENICE The Westin Europa & Regina (Night 3,4) FLORENCE The Westin Excelsior (Night 5,6) ROME St. Regis Grand (Night 7,8,9) Customized Tours Anything is possible with a customized Italy vacation tour from Tour Italy Now. You tell us the dates you are interested in traveling, where you would like to go and any special interests you may have. We then create an itinerary just for you. Want to rent a villa, attend a cooking school or get a private tour of the Vatican? We can help you do it with a customized Italy tour package. For a customized quote please go to: http://www.touritalynow.com/italy_tours/customized_tours_italy.php A travel Speicalist will contact within 48 hours. w w w. t o u r i t a l y n o w. c o m 43 Hotels Tour Italy Now is pleased to announce our partnership with Octopus Travel. We have teamed up with Octopus Travel to provide our clients Italy hotel reservation access, and Italy accommodation(s). Octopus Travel offers hotel rooms in 3,300 cities in 112 countries. More than 40 airlines have links to its website, which is available in 22 languages and also offers more than 2,000 sightseeing tours and airport transfers. Tour Italy Now will be poised to provide you the very best Italy accommodations and an Italy hotel reservation service. We will offer more than 1,500 hotels in Italy and many tailor-made sightseeing tours to over 30 Italian regions and cities. Our commitment to quality remains strong. Your Italy accommodation(s) and Italy hotel reservation bookings have never been so easy. Make your Italy hotel reservation with us and rest assured you will get the best. Book your Italy accommodation(s) with Tour Italy Now today!. w w w. t o u r i t a l y n o w. c o m 44 Group Travel Group Travel must be 10 or more people. You create the group, whether it be friends, family, a church group, or student travel tour. Tour Italy Now will work with you to craft the perfect Italy group tour to meet your specific needs, whether it is a small group tour to Italy or a large student travel tour. Tell us if you want to see the big cities or the countryside or the level of interest you have in biking, hiking, cooking, wine and art. Our Italy group tour will take care of everything from airfare to daily itineraries. If you a searching for a small group tour to Italy or just looking for the finest group tour operator Tour Italy now is the way to travel Italy. Leave the planning to Tour Italy Now, the group tour operator who knows Italy from top to bottom. w w w. t o u r i t a l y n o w. c o m 45