Overview
Your comparison of cobblestones, customs, and cuisine gets underway in Rome, heads down to the dramatic Sorrento Coast, and then kicks the fun from Italy’s heel to its toe and all the way into the great melting pot of Sicily. From Italy’s lower half to its largest island, ruins, resorts—a rich history awaits.
PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Sorrento so you can plan your day your way.
Itinerary
Welcome to Rome!
At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)
Spend your day your way in Sorrento
Together with a Local Guide, visit the incredible excavations of Pompeii. As you walk along the ancient streets, hear about day-to-day life under the Roman Empire and discover what happened when Vesuvius erupted in 79 AD. After some free time for lunch, enjoy a scenic drive around the Bay of Naples towards Sorrento.
Enjoy an evening at leisure. (B) 168 mi / 270 kmCoves, Cliffs & The Clear Blue Sea
Relax on a jetfoil as you cross the Bay of Naples to the captivating island of Capri. Join your Local Guide for a funicular ride from the harbour to Capri village followed by a guided sightseeing. Visit the Augustus Gardens and admire views of the iconic Faraglioni rocks. Return to the clifftop town of Sorrento for free time to explore this friendly town; browse the artisan stores, try local specialties, or just sit and watch the world go by.
Explore more of Sorrento with your choice of included Globus Choice Excursions.
- Gelato Passion: Pure Delight - You scream, I scream, we all scream for gelato! Dig into the secret of Italy's irresistible frozen favorite with a gelato class led by a master gelato maker. Scoop up tips and techniques for the perfect confection at a family-run gelateria, then choose your flavor and delight in freshly made gelato. A very cool experience with sprinkles on top!
- Zest For Life - When life gives you lemons, make limoncello! Sorrento's cool and delicious, signature citrus liqueur. Visit a family-run lemon grove and learn what makes Sorrentine lemons so special, then try your hand in a limoncello-making workshop and enjoy tasting local lemon-based specialties.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Nestled high above the sea on the island of Capri lie the exquisite Gardens of Augustus. This natural paradise promises 180-degree panoramic views and a kaleidoscope of botanical beauty on the cliffs overlooking island and the sapphire sea below.
Land of the Sirens
Enjoy a free day in the Sorrento Area, take a stroll along the charming streets, admire the spectacularviews,browse the stores, laze on the beach, or try delicious local specialties. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: Just as the sirens of Greek mythology lured sailors to the rocky shores of Sorrento, we are drawn to its alluring panoramas, sun-washed beaches, bistros, and boutiques. Take a seat in a sidewalk cafe to peruse the picturesque panoramas on the Bay of Naples.
Spectacular Apulia
A scenic drive towards Apulia, the charismatic region with the longest coastline, that forms the heel of Italy's “boot.” Arrive in the vibrant port city of Bari and enjoy free time this evening. (B) 186 mi / 300 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Apulia has lots to offer – with charming, whitewashed towns, centuries-old pastoral landscapes, and the magnificent Mediterranean coastline. It is famed for its agricultural produce; it has more olive trees than any other region, often referred to as “the breadbasket” of Italy thanks to its durum wheat production.
Sweet Strolls in Apulia
This morning, follow your Local Guide on a walking tour of Bari Vecchia, the city's oldest district, and visit the Basilica of San Nicola. Drive to Lecce, often called the “Florence of the South,” for a guided walking tour of the beautiful historic center. Visit the Duomo and Basilica of Santa Croce, before stopping at a local cafè to taste traditional pasticciotto (filled pastry) with almond-infused iced coffee. (B/D) 183 mi / 295 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURE & TRADITIONS: Traditional pasticciotto is the beloved cream-filled pastry of Lecce, which graces the shelves of Apulia's bakeries and restaurants. Legend has it that this ubiquitous confection was invented by happy accident when chef Andrea Ascalone made too much cake batter, using the excess ingredients to mix up the original pasticcio (meaning mishap or mess in Italian) - a smaller cake with a creamy filling. Sink your teeth into this heavenly pastry with an almond iced coffee to complete the experience.
Stone Houses
Visit Alberobello, one of Italy's most recognizable towns. Join your Local Guide for a walking tour through the trulli lined streets, including an interior visit of a Trullo (traditional conical-roof house) to discover how people live there. Free time this afternoon and evening. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ART & ARCHITECTURE: The iconic round houses (Trulli) date back hundreds of years. These Trulli, constructed of dry stone and cone-shaped roofs include the oldest structures built in the 16th century and were used as grain storage or residences. Made without cement in the masonry techniques of the day, these whitewashed homes were easily disassembled to avoid property taxes when the collectors came calling! Today, you can stroll the streets lined with Trulli houses to see their conical rooftops decorated with symbols such as a cross, heart, astronomical symbol, or the evil eye.
Creamy Desserts & Cave Dwellings
This morning, stop in Matera for an orientation walk which includes a panoramic view of the picturesque sassi houses, the ancient cave dwellings that have become popular as a film location. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Gulf of Taranto before stopping in Pizzo Calabro for a traditional tartufo (ice cream dessert) tasting. Continue to Reggio Calabria, once an important city in Magna Grecia, for a guided visit of the museum that houses the Bronzi di Riace (famous Greek bronze warrior sculptures). (B/D) 280 mi / 450 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - LOCAL TASTES: The only thing better than a taste of gelato is having a few different tastes inside a chocolate-shelled truffle! Indulge in a tartufo dessert that will melt in your mouth during a visit to Pizzo Calabro, the “ice-cream city.”
Grand Greek Drama
A short ferry crossing takes you across the Strait of Messina to Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean. Drive to Taormina, dramatically located on a hill overlooking the sea. Visit the ancient Greek theatre. Free time to explore the town and stroll along stylish Corso Umberto. (B) 62 mi / 100 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ART & ARCHITECTURE: The Greek Theatre of Taormina is considered one of the most impressive examples of auditorium engineering and architecture for its superb natural setting and acoustical design. This ancient marvel was dug into the hard rock slopes of Mount Tauro in the 3rd-century BC, with seating to accommodate thousands of spectators. The Teatro Antico di Taormina was built in the Greek tradition of incorporating the natural surroundings to become part of the performance, with light and air permeating the columns to become part of the story.
The Pearl of the Mediterranean
Spend a full day at leisure on the Taormina Riviera: explore more sights, browse the stores, relax on the beaches, or simply sit in a café savoring local specialties and watching the world go by. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURE & TRADITION: With a backdrop of the Volcanic Mount Etna and the Ionian Sea providing the cinematic setting for the resort town of Taormina, this Pearl of the Mediterranean is a picturesque coastal gem that will spoil you with its stunning beaches, village beauty, and sumptuous culinary specialties.
Sicilian Summits
Enjoy a free day on the Taormina Riviera or join an optional excursion to Mount Etna, Europe's most active volcano. This evening enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: What better way to spend this free day than with an excursion to Mount Etna, Europe's tallest volcano and one of the most active in the world. Learn how in 1669, an eruption that lasted 112 days developed a record long stream of lava that destroyed the city of Catania.
Timeless Temples
Drive across the island to Agrigento, location of a real cultural treasure, the UNESCO nominated Valley of the Temples. Join your Local Guide for a walk through this remarkable archaeological site to see the beautiful Greek temples. Continue to Palermo, Sicily's capital city. (B) 199 mi / 320 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGY: The ruins of Akragas remain Sicily's most amazing archaeological site. The impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia sits in spectacular setting upon a ridge where it served as a beacon for homecoming sailors and today draws enthralled visitors to revel in the remarkable Valley of the Temples.
Cathedrals & New Beginnings
This morning join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour of Palermo's highlights, including a visit to the cathedral. Take a scenic drive to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d'Oro and a visit to the Norman Cathedral. Hear about one of the anti-mafia movements that support the local community. This evening, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - LEGENDARY LIVES: The story of the splendid Monreale Cathedral began as Arabs took control of Palermo. They transformed the cathedral into a mosque and banished the Bishop of Palermo from town. Not wishing to venture too far from his beloved cathedral, the bishop settled in a small village in the hills overlooking Palermo, the site of modern-day Monreale. There, he built a modest church to keep the flame of local Christian worship alive. Today the cathedral is known for its stunning mosaics that cover an area of over 64.500sq ft.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Guided walking tour of the archaeological site of Pompeii
- Globus Choice Excursions in Sorrento − Included in your tour with your choice of a Gelato Class at a family-run gelateria plus tasting, or visit to a family-run lemon grove for a limoncello-making (lemon liqueur) workshop plus local lemon-based specialties sampling
- Guided sightseeing in Capri features a funicular ride and a visit to the Augustus Gardens
- Guided sightseeing tours in Naples and Palermo
- Guided walking tour in Bari Vecchia includes a visit to San Nicola's Church.
- Lecce guided sightseeing features the Duomo and Santa Croce Basilica, plus taste a [LF] pasticciotto (filled pastry) with almond-infused iced coffee.
- Guided walking tour in Alberobello includes a visit to a Trullo (traditional conical-roof house).
- [LF] traditional tartufo (ice cream dessert) tasting in Pizzo Calabro
- Visit to Taormina's ancient Greek theater
- Guided walking tour of Agrigento's Valley of Temples.
- Visit to the Reggio Calabria museum that houses the Bronzi di Riace (famous bronze warrior sculptures).
- Orientation walk in Matera
- Jetfoil ride to Capri Island
- 13 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners
- Rome: Radisson Blu Rome (First-Class):
Radisson Blu Rome is situated just a few minutes away from Via Veneto & the city's historic center. It has 285 sophisticated, air-conditioned rooms, all fully equipped with an LED TV, Free Wi-Fi, a minibar, desk and a bathroom furnished with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. Classic Mediterranean delicacies, an aperitivo or a glass of Champagne can be enjoyed on the stylish 7th floor roof restaurant and bar and there is also a fitness room. - Sorrento Area: Towers Hotel Stabiae Sorrento Coast (First-Class):
Built on the grounds of a former cement factory which takes its name from the two replica factory towers, this upscale 150-room hotel is located in a tranquil spot on the beautiful Sorrento peninsula with views of Mt. Vesuvius, a gleaming private stretch of beach and a sparkling (seasonal) outdoor swimming pool. Mediterranean cuisine is served in the restaurant overlooking the Bay of Naples and drinks can be enjoyed at the terrace bar. A large spa area includes a sauna, Turkish bath and Jacuzzi and Free Wi-Fi access is available throughout the property. - Bari: Excelsior (First-Class):
A contemporary 146-room hotel, located in the heart of Bari. The air-conditioned guestrooms are equipped with parquet flooring, in-room safe, minibar, and Free Wi-Fi access. Traditional dishes using local in-season products are served in the elegant restaurant and a wide selection of drinks and cocktails can be enjoyed in the relaxing atmosphere of the lobby bar. - Alberobello Area: Grand Hotel Olimpo (Superior First-Class):
The Grand Hotel Olimpo is surrounded by typical Trulli and offers 40 comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, all fully equipped with a flat-screen, cable channel TV, safety deposit box, a minibar, desk and hairdryer. The Eden restaurant serves a refined à la carte menu with tasty, delicious combinations which respect the local gastronomic traditions and there is also a great selection of fine wines on offer. - Alberobello Area: D'Aragona Hotel & Spa (Superior First-Class):
Located in a very peaceful position close to some of Apulia's most important attractions like Alberobello, Polignano a Mare and Ostuni, this hotel is a great choice for those who want to explore the region. All its air-conditioned rooms have flat-screen/satellite TV and minibar. Most of the rooms also have balconies. Other amenities include an elegant restaurant serving local dishes and two swimming pools. Free Wi-Fi access is available in public areas. - Reggio Calabria: Grand Hotel Excelsior (Superior First-Class):
Refined and elegant, equipped with a large Convention Centre and a rooftop garden that hosts the exclusive restaurant Gala, the Grand Hotel Excelsior is the ideal solution both for a business trip or a romantic weekend in the beautiful city of Calabria. - Taormina Riviera: Hellenia Yachting Hotel (First-Class):
Hellenia Yachting Hotel is an elegant 4-star hotel in Giardini Naxos, the first Greek colony of Sicily. The property is directly overlooking the waterfront and features a private beach, a spa and a pool. There is a piano bar located in the main terrace area and immediatly adjacent to the main in-house restaurants which boasts some of the finest Sicilian cuisine, presenting traditional local dishes with a fresh and original touch. - Taormina Riviera: Una Hotels Naxos Beach (First-Class):
UNA HOTELS Naxos Beach Sicilia embodies the authentic warmth and hospitality of Sicily, welcoming guests to a lush resort nestled at the foot of Mount Etna. Designed to meet the needs of guests of all ages, this resort offers a wide range of services to ensure a relaxing and enjoyable stay, just steps from the sea, this property provides a unique blend of wellness and leisure and natural beauty. - Palermo: Mercure Palermo Centro (First-Class):
The Mercure Palermo Centro has a prime location with the Politeama theatre, the Harbor, the Cathedral and the lively Vucciria Market within walking distance. It offers free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and 93 modern rooms with design furniture. Rooms have a refined atmosphere and mostly come with white, beige and black color combinations. Each one has air conditioning, coffee and tea maker facilities, flat screen TV with international channels and in-room safe. In the evening enjoy a cocktail at the bar. Many restaurants, bars and local shops are available nearby. - Palermo: Central Palace Hotel Federico II (First-Class):
A fusion of classic and innovative design, Hotel Federico II is a family- run 65 room establishment located near the city's most important streets of culture, tourism and shopping, halfway between the Teatro Massimo and the Teatro Politeama. Breakfast is served with a rich buffet while the in-house restaurant offers traditional Mediterranean dishes revisited along with a great wine selection. Free WiFi access is available throughout the property.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- This tour requires walking on uneven terrain, especially at archaeological sites, which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs.
Don't waste your precious time qeuing up, skip the lines with special VIP access at the must-see sites. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of the destination. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great vacation. Savour the flavours of Europe through its regional cuisine. Read more
Globus picks hotels picked on their centralised location, so you'll stay right in the heart of the destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Trip Reviews (5) Most Recent 'Highlights of Sicily & Southern Italy' Reviews
The accommodation on the tour was of varying standards and one issue which Globus do need to address is the room bookings for solo travellers who pay a singles supplement ( bringing them in line with couples ) but often get put in single rooms which are small and hidden in the back of the hotel. All breakfasts are provided and again are of varying quality but no traveler will go hungry. Some lunches and dinners are also provided and were very good and on this tour there was only the one occasion (in Sorrento) where the dinner provided was of poor quality. Globus provide certain day tours in their itinerary but also provide what is called 'optional extras"( they highlight what the optional extra's are in the tour over-view). i have always chosen to do them all so that i get to experience and see as much as I can in the time I have. The coach is comfortable and has free WiFi so you can keep in contact with loved ones and or post all your tour pictures as soon as they have been taken. The scenery and the small Italian villages and Italian country side are the real winners on this tour - it is breathtaking and certainly not to be missed.
I booked this tour and my flights to Rome and back with Global Journeys. This is the second time I have booked through Global Journeys and have been extremely happy with the service and attention to detail that they provide. Hannah answered all my questions expediently and was always attentive and professional. I had no issues with any travel arrangements and knew that if an issue did arise Hannah would be available to assist. I can honestly say that I would highly recommend to anyone who is looking at booking through Global Journeys to do so-they will not be disappointed.
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A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
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 Globus. 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.
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