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Classic Italy

All content by Intrepid

21 days (ex Rome)

Destinations visited: Italy, Rome, World

Physical rating:
Culture shock rating:

Physical Ratings

The physical rating gives you an idea of how much huffing and puffing you can expect on the trip. While generalisations are always tricky, a summary of our ratings follows:

Rating 1

These trips are a relaxing break. You don't have to worry about doing anything physically demanding unless you want to.

Rating 2

Some easy physical activities included in your trip. No physical preparation is required to make the most of the journey.

Rating 3

This trip will raise your heartbeat. Moderate physical activities are included and a good level of fitness is required.

Rating 4

Be prepared for some serious physical activity. The majority of activities included on this trip will be challenging. The fitter you are, the more you will enjoy your holiday.

Rating 5

Intrepid’s highest physical rating. Get ready for a heart-pumping adventure with plenty of challenges and some extreme conditions. You will be required to be seriously fit for this trip as difficult activities are included.

Culture Shock Ratings

The culture shock rating considers the level of development in the location, the area's infrastructure and how easy it is to access services. It also takes into consideration how different the food and customs are and whether English is widely spoken. While generalisations are always tricky, here’s a summary of the ratings:

Rating 1

This is the least confronting of Intrepid's product range. English is the native language and the food, customs and access to services will be familiar to you.

Rating 2

You will probably have experienced food like this in restaurants back home and English is commonly spoken. Services are available most of the time but there may be some cultural differences.

Rating 3

Expect some culture shock. You will be exposed to signs of poverty and access to services may be sporadic. The food will be quite different to home and English speakers harder to find. Respecting the local culture will make it easier to fit in and really experience the location.

Rating 4

The comforts of home are more of a rarity. English is not common and the food will be quite different to what you are used to. It is important to observe some of the local customs to not cause offence. Many of the locals' standard of living may be confronting.

Rating 5

You're really out there! You'll need to pay specific attention to health and hygiene. A large proportion of locals' living conditions are a world away from standards you are used to. You may have difficulty finding an English speaker and there is little or no access to services. Paying heed to local customs is essential.

from USD$4,040

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Description

Experience the very best of northern Italy on this superb adventure. Wander through medieval villages like Assisi and Florence and along the rugged coastline of the Cinque Terre. Explore ancient wonders in the eternal cities, cycle through the rolling hills of Tuscany and feast on Umbrian delicacies. From Rome, north to Venice and back again - join us to experience the classic essence of Italy.

Highlights

Wander the ancient streets of Rome.
Italy's vibrant capital.
Stroll among the artistic outdoor attractions in Florence.
Cycle through Tuscan landscapes.
Find out why Pisa's famous tower leans.
Travel up to Milan and discover the height of fashion.
Walk along the Cinque Terre coast.
Relax by Lake Como.
Explore the canals and laneways of Venice.
Visit medieval towns in Umbria.

Itinerary

Day 1 Rome

Begin this all-encompassing Italian adventure in Rome. Why not arrive early to visit Vatican City, channel the spirits of ancient gladiators at the Colosseum or see the latest fashions in boutiques on Via Condotti.

Days 2-3 Florence

Before leaving Rome, take a guided walk to see some of the city's better-known sights like the Arch of Constantine and the Spanish Steps. Travel north by train to revel in the artistry of Florence. In free time, experience the decadent surrounds of the Palazzo Pitti, walk along the Arno River front or be dazzled by jewellery stores along the Ponte Vecchio.

Days 4-6 Lucca/Pisa

Embark on a cycling tour following the scenic Serchio River through the Tuscan countryside, stopping to sample fresh local produce. Travel to Pisa and learn why the city's famous tower leans. Spend evenings chilling out in Lucca, one of Italy's hidden gems, and enjoying private apartments tucked inside the city's ancient ramparts. While here, perhaps also take in a Puccini concert or roam amid the lush gardens of Palazzo Pfanner.

Days 7-8 Cinque Terre

Hike through the Cinque Terre. This superb World Heritage-listed region where villages perch on rocky outcrops and pebbled beaches meet the welcoming waters of the Mediterranean.

Days 9-10 Portofino/Piedmont

After a stop in the ritzy seaside town of Portofino and a boat trip to Santa Margherita, tickle the tastebuds in Piedmont, home to the white truffle and excellent red wine.

Days 11-12 Milan/Italian Lakes

Be awed by Milan's magnificent Duomo and perhaps see Da Vinci's masterpiece, The Last Supper, before venturing further afield to picturesque Lake Como. Take the ferry to Bellagio and use free time to visit the stunning Villa Carlotta or Villa Balbianello, the latter made famous by Hollywood blockbusters such as Casino Royale.

Days 13-15 Venice

Be inspired by Venice, a city of canals, piazzas, ornate churches and elegant eateries. While in this most charming of cities, explore some famed Venice sights including the Grand Canal, Doge's Palace and the nostalgic Bridge of Sighs.

Days 16-17 Gubbio

Travel by cable car up to the Basilica di Sant'Ubaldo - the final resting place of Gubbio's patron saint - and absorb 360 degree panoramas of the Umbrian countryside. Hike to tiny hillside towns and dine on more scrumptious Italian fare.

Days 18-19 Assisi/Spello

Follow the footsteps of pilgrims in Assisi, home of Saint Francis and Saint Clare. Take a day trip to medieval Spello and drop by an enoteca to sip local wines and feast on regional dishes.

Days 20-21 Rome

Once the journey comes full circle back to Rome, visit further sites, collect some last-minute souvenirs or perhaps score some cheap tickets to the opera before saying arrivederci to Italy.

Group Size

Maximum of 12 travellers per group

Departure Guarantee

Departure is guaranteed

Accommodation

Hotel (17 nts), Private apartment (3 nts)

Transport

Train, Bus, Bicycle, Metro, Boat, Cable car

Budget

Allow EUR €735 for meals not included.

Check dates and prices
Book this trip with Intrepid Travel on their site

from USD$4,040

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