Escorted journey through Southern Italy
Take a guided multi-city holiday and immerse yourself in the enchanting sights and iconic landmarks of Southern Italy. Begin your adventure in Rome, then set sail on an overnight ferry to Sicily, and continue your journey through Calabria, concluding in the idyllic coastal beauty of the Sorrentine Peninsula.
What's Included
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare to Rome (FCO)
- 9 nights in Italy
- 2 nights in Rome at Hotel Marc'Aurelio, or similar
- Overnight ferry from Civitavacchia or Naples to Palermo (Sicily)*
- 2 nights in the Taormina area (Giardini Naxos) at Nike Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in the Tropea area at Villaggio Cala di Volpe, or similar
- 2 nights in the Sorrento area at Grand Hotel Due Golfi, or similar
- 1 night near Rome Airport at Best Western Hotel Rome Airport, or similar
- Tours & Excursions
- Half-day Ancient Imperial Rome tour with local guide
- Half-day Classic Rome tour with local guide
- Full-day Palermo and Cefalù tour
- Full-day Etna and Taormina tour
- Gelato tasting in Scilla
- Visit to a buffalo farm in Cilento with mozzarella tasting
- Full-day Sorrento & Amalfi Coast tour
- Full-day Pompeii and Naples tour, includes entrance to Pompeii excavation site
- Transportation, Meals & More
- Transfers to/from airport
- 8 breakfasts, 2 dinners
- Coach transportation as needed throughout the trip
- Local English-speaking tour manager at the group's disposal throughout the trip
- Headsets throughout the trip to hear the tour guides clearly
- 24-hour emergency telephone support via the local office in Italy
Not Included:
- Local city taxes (apx. €2-€8 per person, per night and must be paid directly to hotels in destination)
- Porterage at hotels
- Entrance fees/meals other than those mentioned above (Note entry to Vatican Museums, Colosseum, Pantheon, Palatine Chapel and Greco Roman Theatre are not included on the guided tours)
- Gratuity (Suggestions below but note exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip)
- €3 per person for local guides on half-day tours, €5 on full-day tours
- €5 per person per day for drivers
- €5 per person per day for Tour Director
*Due to logistical reasons and pending ferry schedules, on Day 3 the group may travel to Palermo from Civitavecchia (apx. 15 hour ferry + 1 hour transfer) or from Naples (apx. 12 hour ferry + 2 hour transfer). This does not affect the itinerary or price in any way. Ferry embarkation will be at apx. 8pm or 9pm.
Passengers are asked to limit themselves to one full-size piece of luggage and one personal item (i.e handbag, small tote bag, camera bag) per person. Vehicle type depends on final group size, Wi-Fi/restrooms on board cannot be guaranteed. Hotels are not located in the city-centre due to accessibility for coaches. This tour is very active with minimal free time; passengers with limited mobility may be more comfortable on one of our holidays that requires less daily walking.
Please Note: This is a fully escorted group tour with a maximum of 50 passengers per vehicle. Departures are guaranteed.
Check out our 9-night Northern Italy Escorted tour!
Great Ways to Explore
Discover the charming town of Sorrento, renowned for its delightful limoncello.
Enjoy an inclusive tour of the archaeological ruins of Pompeii .
Witness magnificent landmarks like Vatican City and the Colosseum.
Sample in fresh mozzarella cheese directly from the buffalo farm!
Explore the iconic Mount Vesuvius.
Set out on an unforgettable 9-night adventure, immersing yourself in the captivating landscapes of southern Italy. Your journey commences in Rome, the "Eternal City," where explore treasures including the Imperial Palace Complex, Palatine Hill, and the majestic Colosseum. Explore the sacred Vatican City before heading to Sicily.
Discover the vibrant city of Palermo, with its iconic Palatine Chapel, and meander through the enchanting fishing village of Cefalù. Your Sicilian sojourn includes an exploration of Mount Etna and the picturesque beauty of Taormina, where the Greco-Roman Theatre stands as a remarkable landmark.
After savouring delightful gelato in Scilla and indulging in buffalo mozzarella tastings in Cilento, you'll venture to Calabria. The Sorrentine Peninsula awaits, offering a multitude of attractions, including the charming Piazza Tasso and the distinct Amalfi Coast. Here, you can relish the iconic limoncello and savour tantalising local cuisines.
The final leg of your holiday returns you to the "Eternal City," with stops in Pompeii and Naples. During this inclusive tour, you'll explore the Forum, the temples of Zeus and Apollo, and the towering Mount Vesuvius.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
What's Included
- Roundtrip, economy-class airfare to Rome (FCO)
- 9 nights in Italy
- 2 nights in Rome at Hotel Marc'Aurelio, or similar
- Overnight ferry from Civitavacchia or Naples to Palermo (Sicily)*
- 2 nights in the Taormina area (Giardini Naxos) at Nike Hotel, or similar
- 1 night in the Tropea area at Villaggio Cala di Volpe, or similar
- 2 nights in the Sorrento area at Grand Hotel Due Golfi, or similar
- 1 night near Rome Airport at Best Western Hotel Rome Airport, or similar
- Tours & Excursions
- Half-day Ancient Imperial Rome tour with local guide
- Half-day Classic Rome tour with local guide
- Full-day Palermo and Cefalù tour
- Full-day Etna and Taormina tour
- Gelato tasting in Scilla
- Visit to a buffalo farm in Cilento with mozzarella tasting
- Full-day Sorrento & Amalfi Coast tour
- Full-day Pompeii and Naples tour, includes entrance to Pompeii excavation site
- Transportation, Meals & More
- Transfers to/from airport
- 8 breakfasts, 2 dinners
- Coach transportation as needed throughout the trip
- Local English-speaking tour manager at the group's disposal throughout the trip
- Headsets throughout the trip to hear the tour guides clearly
- 24-hour emergency telephone support via the local office in Italy
Not Included:
- Local city taxes (apx. €2-€8 per person, per night and must be paid directly to hotels in destination)
- Porterage at hotels
- Entrance fees/meals other than those mentioned above (Note entry to Vatican Museums, Colosseum, Pantheon, Palatine Chapel and Greco Roman Theatre are not included on the guided tours)
- Gratuity (Suggestions below but note exceptional circumstances may warrant a higher tip)
- €3 per person for local guides on half-day tours, €5 on full-day tours
- €5 per person per day for drivers
- €5 per person per day for Tour Director
*Due to logistical reasons and pending ferry schedules, on Day 3 the group may travel to Palermo from Civitavecchia (apx. 15 hour ferry + 1 hour transfer) or from Naples (apx. 12 hour ferry + 2 hour transfer). This does not affect the itinerary or price in any way. Ferry embarkation will be at apx. 8pm or 9pm.
Passengers are asked to limit themselves to one full-size piece of luggage and one personal item (i.e handbag, small tote bag, camera bag) per person. Vehicle type depends on final group size, Wi-Fi/restrooms on board cannot be guaranteed. Hotels are not located in the city-centre due to accessibility for coaches. This tour is very active with minimal free time; passengers with limited mobility may be more comfortable on one of our holidays that requires less daily walking.
Please Note: This is a fully escorted group tour with a maximum of 50 passengers per vehicle. Departures are guaranteed.
Check out our 9-night Northern Italy Escorted tour!
Great Ways to Explore
Discover the charming town of Sorrento, renowned for its delightful limoncello.
Enjoy an inclusive tour of the archaeological ruins of Pompeii .
Witness magnificent landmarks like Vatican City and the Colosseum.
Sample in fresh mozzarella cheese directly from the buffalo farm!
Explore the iconic Mount Vesuvius.
Package Overview
Set out on an unforgettable 9-night adventure, immersing yourself in the captivating landscapes of southern Italy. Your journey commences in Rome, the "Eternal City," where explore treasures including the Imperial Palace Complex, Palatine Hill, and the majestic Colosseum. Explore the sacred Vatican City before heading to Sicily.
Discover the vibrant city of Palermo, with its iconic Palatine Chapel, and meander through the enchanting fishing village of Cefalù. Your Sicilian sojourn includes an exploration of Mount Etna and the picturesque beauty of Taormina, where the Greco-Roman Theatre stands as a remarkable landmark.
After savouring delightful gelato in Scilla and indulging in buffalo mozzarella tastings in Cilento, you'll venture to Calabria. The Sorrentine Peninsula awaits, offering a multitude of attractions, including the charming Piazza Tasso and the distinct Amalfi Coast. Here, you can relish the iconic limoncello and savour tantalising local cuisines.
The final leg of your holiday returns you to the "Eternal City," with stops in Pompeii and Naples. During this inclusive tour, you'll explore the Forum, the temples of Zeus and Apollo, and the towering Mount Vesuvius.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
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Day 1. Welcome to Rome!
Welcome to Rome, Italy, where your adventure awaits! After your arrival, retrieve your luggage and arrange for a transfer to your hotel. Once you've settled into your room, set out to explore the enchanting city of Rome. Later in the day, treat yourself to an authentic dining experience at one of the numerous nearby restaurants.
Transfer from Rome Airport to hotel
Check-in - Hotel Marc'Aurelio
Rome,
Italy
Hotel Marc 'Aurelio is a 4-star hotel offering sophistication and refinement at the core of the Eternal City. The front desk is available 24-hours to accommodate guests' needs around the clock, and there is a continental buffet breakfast served daily. Guests can unwind after a long day of exploring at the on-site bar and sip cocktails in the beauty of the hotel's garden. The hotel also offers free, on-site parking.
Guest rooms are spacious and cozy, sporting modern décor. Amenities include air-conditioning, a private bathroom, a hairdryer, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, there is a TV in the rooms, an in-room safe, and a minibar.
The Cornelia Metro Station is a convenient 10-minute walk from the hotel. Historical sites such as the Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Square, and Castel Sant'Angelo are all within an 18-minute drive from the hotel. Additionally, Fiumicino Airport is closest to this hotel.
Day 2. Rome
Your first day in Rome kicks off with the half-day Ancient Imperial Rome Tour*, a part of your inclusive package. This immersive journey will transport you back to the glory days of the Roman Empire. It all begins at Capitoline Hill, where you'll encounter the remnants of this grand era. Your exploration continues as you ascend Palatine Hill to witness the ruins of the Imperial Palace Complex. Next comes a view of the iconic Colosseum, before returning to the Piazza Venezia at the foot of Capitoline Hill.
This afternoon you are free to explore Rome at your leisure. You may want to explore Vatican City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to St. Peter’s Basilica.
Colosseum, Rome
A Tip For Your Trip: Please note entrance to Vatican Museums and the Colosseum is not included in the tour today. You may wish to book your own entry prior to departure for Day 1 or the afternoon of Day 2.
Day 3. Rome and overnight ferry to Sicily
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast, energizing you for an exploration of the city center's Dolce Vita hotspots, guided by an experienced local expert. Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and the magnificent Pantheon. Absorb the breathtaking sights and sounds of Rome as you wander through these iconic locations. After the tour, savor a leisurely lunch to recharge for the afternoon's adventures.
As the day winds down, make your way to Civitavecchia or Naples port to embark on the overnight ferry bound for Palermo, Sicily, where the next chapter of your journey awaits.
A Tip For Your Trip: Due to logistical reasons and pending ferry schedules, on Day 3 the group may travel to Palermo from Civitavecchia (apx. 15 hour ferry + 1 hour transfer) or from Naples (apx. 12 hour ferry + 2 hour transfer). This does not affect the itinerary or price in any way. Ferry embarkation will be at apx. 8pm or 9pm.
Overnight ferry to Palermo
Palermo,
Italy
3-star tourist class inside cabin
Day 4. Sicily
Upon your morning arrival by ferry, commence your exploration of Palermo, the sprawling capital and largest city of Sicily. This city boasts a rich history influenced by Latin, Byzantine, and Islamic cultures, and at its heart lies the awe-inspiring Palatine Chapel. Within this remarkable edifice adorned with intricate Byzantine mosaics, you'll experience a captivating fusion of these three cultural legacies.
Following your visit to Palermo, embark on a journey to the ancient fishing village of Cefalù. This charming coastal town is renowned not only for its picturesque beaches but also for its remarkably preserved architectural gems dating back to the Arabic-Norman era. Meander through the narrow alleys of the historic district to discover the splendid 12th-century cathedral. After a day immersed in Sicilian culture, retreat to your accommodation near Taormina.
Check-in - Hotel Nike
Giardini Naxos,
Italy
Hotel Nike is a charming haven, designed with a genuine Mediterranean aesthetic, nestled within a picturesque bay near Naxos. The hotel's front desk is available 24-hours, and the on-site restaurant serves authentic Sicilian cuisine starting from lunchtime. The hotel features a bar, as well as a private beach area where guests can soak in the sun. Spa services are also available.
Guest rooms are equipped with a private bathroom with a shower and hairdryer. Breakfast in the room is available. Other amenities include a TV, desk, wake-up service, and free Wi-Fi.
Reggio di Calabria Airport is closest to this hotel. Taormina-Giardini Train Station is a 20-minute drive from the hotel, as are Isola Bella, and National Reserve Fiume Fiumefreddo.
Day 5. Sicily
Today, you'll visit Taormina and explore Mount Etna, Europe's highest active volcano. Prepare to be enchanted by the natural marvels as you take a leisurely stroll beside the Silvestri craters and witness the traces of lava flows left behind by the eruptions of 1983 and 2001, all set against the backdrop of this awe-inspiring volcano towering at an astonishing 1,900 meters.
Later in the day, continue your journey to Taormina, a town nestled amidst the dramatic landscape defined by rugged cliffs, lush gardens, and the shimmering sea. The most iconic landmark in Taormina is the Greco-Roman Theatre, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the bay and the imposing Mount Etna.
Teatro Antico di Taormina
Day 6. Sicily - Calabria
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, and then hop on a private coach as you embark on your journey to the mainland. During your ride to Calabria, your driver will arrange for a lunch stop along the way. Be sure to leave some space for dessert, as an irresistible gelato tasting awaits you in Scilla.
Upon reaching your hotel near Tropea, complete the check-in process and settle into your comfortable accommodation. Wrap up your evening with a delightful dinner at the hotel's restaurant.
Check-in - Villaggio Cala di Volpe
Torre Marino,
Italy
Villaggio Cala di Volpe is a 4-star resort surrounded by a beautiful, tropical garden. The resort features a pool and private beach, along with a wellness area where guests can indulge in spa services such as a massage, or relax in the sauna. There are 2 restaurants - one serving modern Mediterranean cuisine with a view of the sea, the other, an alfresco Live Cooking Show dating back to ancient traditions. There is also a bar alongside the pool where guests can enjoy cocktails, ice cream and more.
Guest rooms are comfortable and elegant. Some have a view of the sea, while others have views of the stunning tropical garden. Amenities include air-conditioning, a private bathroom, hairdryer, in-room safe, desk, and television. Additionally, there is free Wi-Fi and room service is available.
Lamezia Terme International Airport is closest to the resort. The Ricadi train station is a short 9-minute drive from the resort, and stunning historical places such as Capo Vaticano Lighthouse and Pineta Ciaramiti are within a 12-minute drive.
Day 7. Calabria - Sorrento
During your exploration of the Campania region today, you'll have the opportunity to visit a buffalo farm. Join a guided tour and savor a sample of their renowned mozzarella cheese.
Check-in - Grand Hotel Due Golfi
Sorrento,
Italy
The Grand Hotel Due Golfi is a 4-star luxury hotel surrounded by lush green gardens and incredible views. The hotel boasts two restaurants serving delicious pasta dishes and more. Additionally, guests can enjoy a daily continental breakfast and a poolside bar, ideal for enjoying cocktails under the sun.
Guests rooms are spacious and all have a private balcony with a view of the sea or the hotel's stunning gardens. Amenities include air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi, a private bathroom, coffee maker, TV, in-room safe, and a hair dryer.
Naples International Airport is closest to the hotel. Fiordo di Crapolla Beach and Monumento Due Golfi are both within a 7-minute drive from the hotel, while it takes 17-minutes via car to get to the historic Valley Il Vallone dei Mulini.
Day 8. Sorrento
Commence your day with an early breakfast and then set off on a tour of Sorrento, celebrated for its abundance of antique shops and the picturesque main square, Piazza Tasso. Immerse yourself in the ambiance of this enchanting southern Italian town while you embrace the invigorating sea breeze. Following your exploration of Sorrento, hop on your coach for a scenic journey along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast. Pause at scenic viewpoints along the route for memorable snapshots and enjoy a leisurely meal to soak in the splendid views.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Day 9. Sorrento - Rome
After savoring your breakfast, hop aboard the coach for an exciting day filled with exploration in the Campania region, featuring visits to Pompeii and Naples.
Pompeii, the ancient city, tragically met its demise during the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. The ruins, set amidst a breathtaking landscape, provide a glimpse into the past of the Roman Empire. During your guided tour, you'll marvel at the beauty of the forum, the temples of Zeus and Apollo, antique shops, and even a remarkable brothel adorned with intriguing paintings.
Following your Pompeii adventure, your journey continues to Naples. This vibrant city, the capital of Campania, is nestled at the base of Mount Vesuvius, surrounded by stunning natural scenery with picturesque islands emerging from the Gulf of Naples.
Upon arriving in Naples, enjoy some free time for lunch before embarking on a city tour that includes visits to important landmarks such as Castel Nuovo and Palazzo Reale. Conclude your journey as you head back to the Rome area, ensuring proximity to the airport for your departure tomorrow. To cap off your final evening in Italy, delight in an included dinner at your hotel.
Rome,
Italy
1 of 2 hotels
Situated just a quick 5-minute drive from Fiumicino Airport, the Best Western Hotel Rome Airport offers a range of amenities including a fitness center, pool, a well-equipped business center, and versatile meeting spaces. This 4-star hotel also boasts contemporary air-conditioned rooms, each equipped with an LCD TV and a selection of satellite channels. The hotel's restaurant delights guests with delectable Italian dishes, while the bar serves a variety of beverages.
Complimentary Wi-Fi is accessible throughout the property. Each room is furnished with a kettle and a private bathroom complete with a hairdryer. Located in Fiumicino, The Best Western Rome Airport is conveniently just a 15-minute drive from Lido Ostia Beach and just 30 minutes from the heart of Rome. Convenient shuttle services are offered to the airport, convention center, city center, and Civitavecchia harbor.
Rome,
Italy
2 of 2 hotels
Hotel Isola Sacra Rome is a beautiful 4-star hotel surrounded by lush gardens. The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool where guests can relax on a sunbed with a cocktail, or wander the hotel gardens. There is also an award winning restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including gluten free options.
Guest rooms are bright and spacious with a private bathroom. Amenities include a bidet, towels, a hair dryer, a minibar, an in-room safe, desk, alarm clock, and air-conditioning. Additionally, wake-up service and room service are available.
Nearby attractions include Ostia Lido Beach, Ostia Antica Archaeological Site, and The Village Parco de' Medici, which are all within a 20-minute drive from the hotel.
Day 10. Depart Italy
Your remarkable Italian holiday has concluded. Now, it's time to check out of your accommodation and make your way to the airport.
Transfer from hotel to Rome Airport
Fly home!
Advertised Great Value Holiday prices are per person based on two people travelling together, unless otherwise noted. Advertised Great Value Holidays are based on select departures as noted on the booking calendar above, where available via the Great Value Holidays website and may not represent current prices.
Great Value Holidays are subject to availability, are capacity controlled, may not be available on every date, and may be restricted to certain hotel room categories. Higher rates may also be available throughout travel period. Full payment is required to fully confirm reservation. Rates cannot be combined with any other discount/promotion, and are valid for new bookings only. Offers may be changed or withdrawn at any time without notice. Website contains special pricing that is exclusively for Internet sale only.
Promo Code Offer Details (where applicable): All promotions are subject to availability, valid for new bookings only, cannot be combined with any other promotion, discount, voucher or any other offers, and are not redeemable for cash. Promotional codes may be input online on the payment screen. Discounts will apply only once per passenger and are not valid for any other products or services.
Go to our Booking Terms and Conditions for full details on change/cancellation policy.
Palermo, Italy
Overnight ferry from Civitavacchia or Naples to Palermo (Sicily)
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Rome, Italy
Best Western Rome Airport Fiumicino
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