Overview
Itinerary
Commencing in central Milan at 2pm we will transfer you to Stresa on wonderful Lake Maggiore, where you will stay the next four nights. Join us tonight for a welcome drink before dinner. This is an ideal chance to meet, and get to know, your Tour Manager and fellow travellers. (D) Stay: La Palma Hotel, Stresa, Lake Maggiore
This morning we drive to the town of Como and follow the shore of the lake to Tremezzo, where we board our private boat and enjoy a cruise on Lake Como, past a number of striking lakeside villas, to delightful Bellagio. This beautiful town is situated at the tip of the peninsula separating the lake's two southern arms, with the Alps visible across the lake to the north. It's time to relax in this delightful town which boasts peaceful villas and gardens nestled by the lakeside, elegant shops and walkways plus stylish al fresco dining at its very best.
Returning to Tremezzo, we visit the world famous Villa Carlotta. This wonderful Villa is set in 70,000 square metres of romantic Italianate Gardens and faces across Lake Como to the Bellagio peninsula. The classic gardens boast fountains and pergolas and in spring time is famous for its rhododendrons and azaleas.
Later we return to Stresa. Dinner tonight is included in a local restaurant. (B/D) Stay: La Palma Hotel, Stresa, Lake Maggiore
There is nothing like a day in the mountains – especially amongst some of the highest and most dramatic in the Alps! Following a deep valley we soon reach the mountain village of Macugnaga, close to the Swiss border. Used as a location in many films, the village is famous for its beautifully preserved wooden huts and chalets, and the stunning backdrop of the Monte Rosa (Pink) Massif and the 4638 metres high Dufourspitze – Europe's second highest mountain. Your time is at leisure to explore the village and surroundings, and perhaps take a mountain cable car ride (subject to operating) to enjoy lunch and the extraordinary views.
Later today we also visit the delightful town of Orta San Giulio beside the beautiful, and some say most romantic of all the lakes – Lake Orta. Your evening is at leisure in Stresa. (B) Stay: La Palma Hotel, Stresa, Lake Maggiore
Boarding our private boat we visit the famous islands of Lake Maggiore. First stop will be Isola Bella where we have included entrance and a guided tour of the palatial Borromeo villa and gardens, which dominate the island. The villa boasts Murano glass chandeliers, gobelin-covered chairs, intricate tapestries and paintings. The spectacular formal gardens rise behind the ornate villa, with patterned flower beds falling in terraces, with statues and ornamental stonework completing the Italianate style.
Next we visit Isola Pescatori (the Fisherman's island). Lunchtime is at leisure on this small, picturesque island with its quaint cafés and restaurants set amongst the old houses with wooden balconies, tiny boats and fishing nets. The afternoon and evening are at leisure in delightful, lakeside Stresa. (B) Stay: La Palma Hotel, Stresa, Lake Maggiore
Bidding farewell to Lake Maggiore we drive east and arrive at Lake Garda late morning. This is the largest of the Italian lakes, with a circumference of approximately 100 kilometres; it is surrounded by lemon and citrus groves and is the meeting point of three Italian regions. There will be time at leisure for lunch in one of the colourful and diverse lakeside towns. You stay in the foothills of the Dolomites, in the superb CastelBrando for the next two evocative nights. (B/D) Stay: Hotel CastelBrando, Cison di Valmarino
After a leisurely start we visit nearby ‘Venezia’ (Venice) – arguably one of the most romantic cities in the world. At Tronchetto we board a private boat to take us to St Mark’s Square, where we join our expert local guide for a walking tour and a guided visit to the pink and white marble Doges Palace. The rest of the day is free to meander through the myriad of narrow, water lined streets and alleys spanned by humped back bridges. (B/D) Stay: Hotel CastelBrando, Cison di Valmarino
A leisurely start today as we travel south to Tuscany. We arrive in the charming spa town of Montecatini Terme mid afternoon. This was once a favourite ‘cure resort’ of the crowned heads of state from all over Europe. We stay here for the next five nights, in a traditional family run, 4-star hotel, close to the major sights. As a highlight, this evening we drive into the picturesque Tuscan countryside, where we have arranged dinner at a local olive oil farmhouse estate. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Ercolini & Savi, Montecatini Terme
Today is dedicated to nearby ‘Firenze’ (Florence). We are joined by a local guide who will bring to life this truly beautiful city, which is otherwise known as the ‘Cradle of the Renaissance’. We see the Duomo and take in the magnificent statues in the Piazza della Signoria. At the conclusion of your walking tour, we have included a guided visit to the famous Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo’s ‘David’ and numerous other extraordinary Italian, Florentine and Renaissance works of art.
Your afternoon is entirely free, 'My Time' to enjoy Florence at your own pace. Espresso coffee on Piazza Santa Croce where Michelangelo is buried? A gelato whilst strolling across the Ponte Vecchio? Don’t forget the excellent shopping. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Ercolini & Savi, Montecatini Terme
Our first stop today is in one of the most typically ‘Tuscan’ towns in the area, Lucca – a medieval walled city, filled with palaces, churches, ancient houses and the former home of Puccini, where he wrote Turandot. Walk on top of the city walls for the very best city views, or visit Piazza San Michele and stroll along the shops of Borgo Giannotti.
Afterwards we visit Pisa with its famous Leaning Tower, Cathedral and Baptistery in the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli. This afternoon we visit a local farmhouse to enjoy an olive oil tasting accompanied by Tuscan wines and a light dinner to sample the farms own produce. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Ercolini & Savi, Montecatini Terme
A delightful day is planned as we explore the famous Cinque Terre. The name means ‘five lands’ and comes from the five unspoilt fishing villages that cling to the cliffs, overlooking the sea. We have arranged a coastal boat ride for you to admire the spectacular scenery and almost inaccessible fishing villages, and to visit Portovenere and Monterosso. Our return journey to Levanto, to meet our coach, is by train. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Ercolini & Savi, Montecatini Terme
The whole of today has been purposely left entirely at leisure. This is a perfect opportunity for you to do as little, or as much as you want! Maybe take the local train back to the museums and shops of Florence. Alternatively explore Montecatini’s old centre and parklands, or pamper yourself in one of the spas. Perhaps just relax in your hotel or sip wine in a café and watch the world go by! (B) Stay: Hotel Ercolini & Savi, Montecatini Terme
We make the short drive across Tuscany to the fairytale ‘town of towers’ San Gimignano, famous for its 13th and 14th century Tuscan towers. Exploring the pedestrian walkways of this hilltop town is an absolute delight. Lunchtime will be at leisure in the beautifully preserved streets of medieval Siena amongst the great sights such as the gothic town hall and the Piazza del Campo, scene of the famous Palio horse race.
Next we wind up to the hills of Umbria and the wonderful walled town of Spoleto where we stay the next two nights. Medieval Spoleto is easily explored on foot. There are numerous romanesque churches and cobblestoned alleyways lined with shops, bars and trattorias. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Dei Duchi, Spoleto, Umbria
We spend this morning in the nearby beautiful Umbrian city of Assisi. Badly damaged by earthquakes in 1997 the city, dominated by two medieval castles, undertook a remarkable programme of restoration which soon brought it back to all its glory. On arrival in Assisi we are joined by a local guide for a tour of the Basilica of St Francis with its magnificent frescoes.
Afterwards there is time for you to explore Assisi at your own pace. Returning to Spoleto, the rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps take a leisurely walk along the path around the castle and across the medieval viaduct in to the Umbrian countryside. This is the real Italy! (B) Stay: Hotel Dei Duchi, Spoleto, Umbria
Driving south past Vesuvius we visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii, where a local guide takes us through the city that was buried under volcanic ash in AD 79. Paintings, furniture, mosaics, sculptures, graffiti and even loaves in ovens are wonderfully preserved. From here it's only a short drive to the Amalfi coast and the port towns of Minori and Maiori, where we stay for the next three nights. A perfect base for visiting all the local sights and soaking up the unique atmosphere of the Amalfi Coast (B/D) Stay: Reginna Palace Hotel Maiori
Enjoy your day as we take you on the ferry along the Amalfi coast, and across to Marina Grande on the island of Capri, which the Roman emperor Tiberius made his capital.
On arrival we meet our local guide and board a bus which takes us up to the top of the island to explore the charming village of Anacapri. In the main town, Capri, we visit the Giardino d'Augusto overlooking the Faraglioni, before ‘My Time' amongst the boutiques and galleries. (B/D) Stay: Reginna Palace Hotel Maiori
The Amalfi coast is famous for its twisting, winding scenic drive with picturesque villages and towns hugging the cliffs and craggy coves. This morning we cruise from Minori along the dramatic coastline and spend time exploring Amalfi. Your afternoon is at leisure in Minori.
In the late afternoon, we will drive up to perhaps one of the most scenic towns along the Amalfi Coast, Ravello. Perched on the mountain, commanding panoramic views across the coast, Ravello is evocatively described as being “nearer to the sky than it is to the sea”, and has been a favourite haunt of artists and composers for centuries. You will have free time to savour the breath-taking views, enjoy an apertivo overlooking the piazza, and explore the medieval streets of this enchanting village. Your evening is at leisure in Minori. (B) Stay: Reginna Palace Hotel Maiori
Arriving in Tivoli, on the outskirts of the the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome, we enjoy a visit to the imposing Villa Adriana – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that epitomises the grandeur of the Roman Empire.
Later we check into our central Rome hotel. Our finale will be a special farewell dinner in a local restaurant. (B/D) Stay: Bettoja Hotel Mediterraneo, Rome
Your tour ends today after breakfast. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- ALL excursions, scenic drives, sightseeing and entrances as described
- Hand Selected Albatross Experiences including private boat rides on Lake Maggiore, Lake Como and Venice, cruises in Cinque Terre and Capri, plus olive oil tasting in a Tuscan farmhouse
- Welcome drink on Day 1
- 29 meals including breakfast daily (B) and 12 evening meals (D)
- A complimentary glass of wine, beer or soft drink with all included dinners
- Hotel porterage of 1 bag per person (where available)
- 17 nights specially selected hotel accommodation
- Free WiFi at most hotels (where available)
- Travel in a first-class air-conditioned touring coach
- Personal audio system whilst on tour (where available)
- ALL tips for your Tour Manager, Driver and Local Guides
- Local guides as described in the itinerary
- Fully escorted by our experienced Tour Manager
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Prices are for land/cruise and internal flights as specified only. Flights not specified are not included.
Our tours are designed with a leisurely pace featuring 3, 4 and even 5 night stays in each captivating city or region.
With no more than 28 travellers, and an average of 22, you get so much space on a first-class, full-size coach.
Albatross Tours are genuinely inclusive, with special excursions, feature dinners, sightseeing tours & tips for your Tour Manager and Driver.
Trip Reviews (34) View All Most Recent 'The Italian 'Grande'' Reviews
I have to say it was a fantastic tour from beginning to end. Our tour guide Antonia was the best you could ever wish for. She treated us like family and did a fabulous job throughout, throwing in the odd witty remarks every day, we all adored her. Our driver Ermano was great too and an excellent driver, we all felt really safe with him. The reason we chose this tour was because of the 3,4 and 5 night stays. It beats one night stays hands down. The hotels we stayed in were mostly excellent especially the La Palma in Stresa which was my favourite. The Italian scenery was outstanding especially around the Amalfi Coast. So much was packed into the 18 days, we got to see and do so many things. We went in early September and the weather was perfect. There were 28 in our tour and we all got on really well, so much so we have set up WhatsApp and communicate often. I definitely would recommend Albatross and this tour to anyone wishing to see Italy and have everything done for you.
We had 4 nights in Stresa and 5 nights in Montecatini Terme where we stayed in lovely four star hotels. From Montecatini Terme, we enjoyed day trips to Firenze, Pisa, Lucca and the Cinque Terre. Albatross Tours allow for "My time" which allows patrons to explore on their own and have a break from the group.
Our tour manager was professional, knowledgeable and personable. The coach driver was an ever smiling Italian who made us all feel safe and confident in his driving skills. There were only 18 Australians and New Zealanders on our large coach so there was ample room to spread out. All our travelling companions got on well and were a happy group.
We booked our tour through Global Journeys. Our consultant, Madeline, helped us with our holiday planning and offered us suggestions that assisted our holiday planning. Albatross Tours provide well resourced holidays, for small groups and many extras. We enjoyed our holiday immensely.
The Italian Grande was everything it offered. The hotels, especially in Mira, were great with the exception of one that was very disappointing. The Tour Guide, Gianfranco, was just Top Shot as was the driver of the coach, especially on the hair-pin bends - so many heart-stopping moments - so exciting yet very safe. Loved going through a lot of towns en route to the next stop and they were often the icing on the cake. Ravello, so beautiful and that winding road up to Anacapri - Wow !! And what a view from the top of the rock that is Capri.
The group was all Australian which was a pleasure and a very cohesive group at that too - what a relief !! One word says it all of this trip ABSOLUTELY AWESOME ( oops, two words !).
The highlights read more of the tour were the days we spent at Lake Maggiore and the cruises we did at Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast. This was the best way to appreciate the spectacular scenery and coastal villages. We thought the character hotels would enhance the local experience and expected quality to suffer. The hotel locations were great but there were some problems. Generally, elevators were too small and there wasn’t enough of them which meant a lot of stair climbing for those fit enough. The hotel at Montecatini only had 2 very small elevators (maximum 4 people) and one of them broke down the day we arrived and was not fixed until 4 days later. Bathroom sizes seemed to vary and some of our companions thought they were too small though we were reasonably happy with ours.
The dinners at the hotels were of average quality except for Maiori where the food was poor. Breakfasts at all locations was very good. We found ants in our bedding each morning at Maiori and when we mentioned this to the staff we were told that it was a result of the climate and nothing could be done about it. This hotel also had a policy of no wifi in the rooms and you had to go to reception to use it. Several of our travel companions complained about the wifi on the coach. It seemed that only a certain number of passengers could log on at one time. I was keen to track our progress using the Vamoos app but I gave up early in the tour because I couldn’t get wifi access when I needed it.
On some of our stops we had too much time and at other places not enough. We found the activities that were included in the tour price were as much or less than what you would expect with Insight. Their claim that there are no optional extra costs is only because they don’t offer any. This is why, I expect, that we found we had too much time to ourselves at some places. You could wander around the streets, have lunch, shop or visit museums at your pleasure and own expense. To my mind theses are optional activities even though they are not organised or advertised. Our Tour Director was a local with more than 30 years experience but he lacked the professional experience of the Insight Tour Directors. In summary, we feel that you get better value for your money with Insight even if you have to pay for the optional experiences and tips to the Tour Director and driver.
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Albatross. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
