Simply Italy | Winter | 2025/2026
Simply Italy | Winter | 2025/2026
$3068
Simply Italy | Winter | 2025/2026
15 Days Starting and ending in Rome
Visiting: Rome, Siena, Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Cinque Terre, Como, Milan, Verona, Venice, Bologna, Pompeii, Naples, Sorrento, Amalfi Coast
Tour Overview
Welcome to 15 days of pure Italian travel immersion. Covering Rome, Florence, Venice and beyond, this one brings you the blissful best of this soul-stirring country. Explore Rome's historical highlights, travel through the streets of Michelangelo's Florence, indulge in some authentic pasta on the Amalfi Coast. Stop by to see the stooping slopes of Sorrento in the breezy winter. And that's just an aperitivo. Beauty, romance and all the pasta you can fit in; the good life just got even better. That's amore!
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Hotel Archimede (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Rome! Once known as the 'capital of the world' this richly historic, passionate and elegant city will steal our hearts as soon as we arrive. We'll meet and greet our Contiki crew at 4pm, then with our eyes wide and camera roll full, we'll head to the streets for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® Italian feast at La Trattoria de Gli Amici, before heading on an orientation tour of the city.
Day 2: Rome To Florence Via Siena
Location: Rome, Siena, Florence
Accommodation Name: BB Centro (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise and shine, we're headed to another historical heavyweight today... But not before stopping off at Siena for lunch. This place has medieval masterpieces and the historic city centre has been declared by UNESCO a World Heritage Site. We'll soak up all of that historic beauty and grab a bite before heading onto Florence... Florence is one of the foodie capitals of Italy, so we won't waste any time trying the local delicacies before turning in for the night, dreaming of the Florentine adventures that await us tomorrow.
Day 3: Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: BB Centro (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Florence is often referred to as a 'walking museum', and today we'll find out why. With a locally guided walking tour, we'll discover Renaissance Florence on foot, swooning at Giotto's Bell Tower, Basilica Santa Croce, and Piazza della Signoria. We'll also see the Duomo, one of the world's most remarkable architectural feats. Later, we’ll get together for a Tuscan Risotto Evening indulging in Chianti wine from the nearby vineyards. Learn how to make risotto whilst our hosts have cooked up a feast of antipasto and Italian specialties. Save some room for ‘dolce’ i.e a mystery homemade dessert!
Day 4: Florence To Cinque Terre Via Pisa And Lucca
Location: Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Cinque Terre
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Grazie (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Farewell, Florence. We'll never forget you. But we've got more dreamy Italian hot spots to hit up. Another stopover will let us check out lovely Lucca, with its charming piazzas, Renaissance architecture and historic cafes. Opt for wines at the local vineyards outside of Lucca. Or it's a perfect spot to grab a bite before we hit the road again. We can't be this way of the world without a sneaky visit to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Depriving you of the chance to perfect the holding-up-the-tower shot would be criminal. Welcome to the Italian Riviera! You're going to fall head over heels with this region over the coming days...
Day 5: Cinque Terre
Location: Cinque Terre
Accommodation Name: Hotel Le Grazie (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Some people think Cinque Terre is just one place, but it actually translates to the ‘five lands’ and is made up of 5 stunning towns with their own unique identity and traditions. Included in your trip is an unlimited Cinque Terre hike and train ticket, and whichever way you choose to get around will be sure to make you fall in love with the dramatic cliff-faces and pastel coloured buildings.
Day 6: Cinque Terre To Milan Via Como
Location: Cinque Terre, Como, Milan
Accommodation Name: BB Hotel Milano Sesto (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We're hitting the road today to one of the most elegant cities in Europe. But not before experiencing the glitz and glamour of Lake Como, with its attractive villages and gorgeous gardens. The showstopper is the lake itself, of course, and we'll have the option to get out on the water and take a cruise to beautiful Bellagio. Welcome to Milan, the sophisticated cityscape that rewards the curious traveller. We have a free night to check out the local nightlife, and eat some of the local delicacies. As always, your Trip Manager will have the top tips on where to go and where to avoid...
Day 7: Milan To Venice Via Verona
Location: Milan, Verona, Venice
Accommodation Name: Villa Pace Park Hotel Bolognese (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The dreamy destinations just don't stop coming... Welcome to Verona, the heart of Renaissance romance (and the setting for Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet). Beautiful architecture, rich history and plenty of jaw-dropping art makes this place a very worthy stopover. We'll check out Juliet's balcony, part of a gorgeous 13th century house then it's onto another very romantic city... Welcome to Treviso! Nothing like a free evening to spend the Italian way...Tonight you'll have the option to walk around this idyllic version of Venice (before taking on the real thing tomorrow!). Grab some local food on the way. And maybe even treat yourself to some tiramisu (because this little town is where it was born!). Seriously, it doesn't get more authentic than this.
Day 8: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation Name: Villa Pace Park Hotel Bolognese (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake-up sleeping beauties! Hop onto our coach because we've got this entire day to explore Venice. We'll be jumping aboard our own private boat and crossing the canal en route to the historical heart of the city. A gondola ride will be up for grabs, or you can always choose to get lost on your own and see where the maze takes you. Later, maybe opt to cruise to the UNESCO-listed island of Burano and enjoy a sumptuous seafood meal.
Day 9: Venice To Rome Via Bologna
Location: Venice, Bologna, Rome
Accommodation Name: Hotel Archimede (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
See ya, Venice. You'll always have a piece of our hearts. Today we're headed back to Rome to explore the city in more depth. But not before making a quick stop in Bologna. Home of prosciutto, mortadella, bolognese sauce and many more tasty Italian delights, Bologna is known far and wide as La Grassa (the Fat One). Come hungry, but make sure you’re not too full to explore the Unesco-listed porticoes either. We'll have a free night for dinner and a chance to discover the finest food Rome has to offer. Washed down with some fine Italian wine? If you say so.
Day 10: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: Hotel Archimede (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rome wasn't built in a day - so get up and get going early to make the most of this ancient city. This is also the day to do a bit of your own exploring, an included dinner tonight will refuel us after a day of sightseeing. Take a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel. Religious or not, the Vatican's Italian Renaissance church will send shivers down your spine.
Day 11: Rome To Naples
Location: Rome, Pompeii, Naples
Accommodation Name: Hotel Nuovo Rebecchino (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we're headed to another richly historical and cultural city, known for its naturally beautiful sights and excellent cuisine. Here in the ancient city of Pompeii you will have the option to partake in a guided walking tour of the fascinating Roman town that was destroyed by Vesuvius and then perfectly preserved in volcanic ash. Welcome to Naples, the rough and ready but oh so charming city which encapsulates everything we love about Italy. The home of pizza, a hub of culture, and a bundle of passionate Italian energy. Today we have the option to take a tour, learning about the city, its history and its food culture.
Day 12: Naples To Amalfi Coast Via Sorrento
Location: Naples, Sorrento, Amalfi Coast
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Salerno (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
We're headed to the coast today to check out some of the most glamorous seascapes in Europe. If you're here in the breezy winter months, we'll make a stop at Sorrento - the birthplace of Limoncello. Steep slopes that overlook azure waters and the whiff of Italian wonder - what's not to love? Here you'll have free time to explore Sorrento's cliffs, coasts and cafes, followed by an included lunch at La Sorgente for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience. On route to our next stop, have your cameras at the ready for a quick snap of the stunning Positano as we drive by. Our last stop-off for today is Salerno, where you'll have a free night to explore the Roman ruins, museums, gardens and sea views.
Day 13: Amalfi Coast
Location: Amalfi Coast
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel Salerno (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We've got a free day on the Amalfi coast! Lucky us. There are plenty of optionals today to keep us entertained, including a visit to a lemon farm, run by a local family whose ancestors introduced the crop and have been care takers of an age old tradition ever since (MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® Experience). Here we learn how these huge, sunshine coloured fruits are harvested and turned into limoncello. We'll also get to have a Tastes of Amalfi dinner.
Day 14: Amalfi Coast To Rome
Location: Amalfi Coast, Rome
Accommodation Name: Hotel Archimede (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We're headed back to Rome today. Time for the Colosseum? Back in Rome, we better put on your centurion helmets because we're going on a guided tour around all the Roman ruins, and even the mighty Colosseum. Afterwards, you'll have the chance to head out to a local restaurant and make (and eat) your very own pasta.
Day 15: End Rome
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Hold our gelato. Our hearts are melting as we bid a final ‘Ciao’ to our Contiki crew after a trip we’ll never forget.
What's Included
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Meals
The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 3 dinners, and 1 lunch.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels such as Hotel Archimede, BB Centro, Hotel Le Grazie, BB Hotel Milano Sesto, Villa Pace Park Hotel Bolognese, Hotel Nuovo Rebecchino, and Grand Hotel Salerno.
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Guided Tours
The tour includes guided tours in Florence, the Vatican, and Pompeii.
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Transportation
Transportation between cities and attractions is included.
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Cinque Terre Rail Pass
An unlimited Cinque Terre hike and train ticket is included.
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MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
The tour includes MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences such as a dinner at La Trattoria de Gli Amici and a visit to a third-generation family-owned farm in Sorrento.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a gondola ride in Venice, a cruise to the island of Burano, and a visit to a lemon farm on the Amalfi Coast are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Flights
Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Entry Fees
Entry fees to museums and other attractions are not included unless specified.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with private coaches, trains, and boats, ensuring a seamless journey through Italy's most iconic destinations, from Rome to Florence, Cinque Terre, Milan, Venice, Naples, and the Amalfi Coast.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at a variety of hotels including Hotel Archimede in Rome, BB Centro in Florence, Hotel Le Grazie in Cinque Terre, BB Hotel Milano Sesto in Milan, Villa Pace Park Hotel Bolognese in Venice, Hotel Nuovo Rebecchino in Naples, and Grand Hotel Salerno on the Amalfi Coast.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 14 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
FAQs
- Rome: Can arrangements be made for travellers with accessibility needs? If you require arrangements to be made for your accessibility needs, please inform your Trip Manager as soon as possible. We try our best to contact all accommodations and secure ground floor rooms for easy wheelchair access.Please remember that Italy can be physically challenging to get around. Coaches can’t access historical centers, and there will be lots of walking (on roads that are often uneven and cobbled). Travellers with accessibility needs will find this trip challenging.
- Madrid: Do the included meals have a set menu? Yep. Usually, we arrange a buffet for all your included meals. If you’d like a vegetarian option, please inform your Trip Manager beforehand, and they’ll sort it out for you.
- Rome: When would be the best time to book tickets for museums and other attractions? This would depend on the museums & attractions you’re planning to visit. If you’d like to know the exact timings, please contact our 24x7 Helpline to access your day-to-day itineraries to check when you’ll have free time in each city.
- Madrid: I need to refrigerate my medication. Can I do that on the coach? Of course! Just inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration on the coach. Please remember that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you’ll have to take your medication with you into your accommodation. We recommend that you bring a cooler bag with you as a backup. It’s your responsibility to store your medication with care.
Included Experience
- Rome: Stroll around the Italian capital, ticking off some sights on your bucket list!
- Rome: Kick back with your Contiki crew and feast on some yummy Italian cuisine - served at a local restaurant working to train and provide jobs for members of the community with disabilities.
- Siena: This medieval Tuscan city is packed with charming photo ops. From the Duomo to Piazza del Campo.
- Florence: See the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery & Piazza della Signoria on a locally guided walking tour of Florence.
- Pisa: Your ultimate chance to ‘hold the tower up’ as you pose for that classic Insta snap.
- Lucca: Ramble around the cobbled streets of this Renaissance walled city in Tuscany. It’s an Insta post waiting to happen!
- Cinque Terre National Park: We’ll take care of your rail pass, so you can just zip around the iconic clifftop villages and focus on the Insta stories.
- Verona: Ah! The sight of this famous balcony will turn even the most hardened cynic into a romantic soul.
- Venice: Speed across the lagoon to the aqueous island of Venice.
- Vatican: See this religious state and home to the Pope, IRL. Take a guided tour around Renaissance masterpieces and see the famous ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
- Amalfi Coast: Definitely one for the bucket list. Your chance to view one of Europe’s active volcanoes from a distance.
- Ravello: Visit the hilltop town of Ravello, home to iconic cliffside gardens and spectacular views.
- Positano: Take an iconic selfie with the village backdrop from a hilltop viewpoint.
- Sorrento: Visit a third-generation family owned farm. Here you will learn how mozzarella is made & how this recipe has been passed down. Whilst there you will be treated to a homemade meal.
Check out our Q&As
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Are there any special arrangements for travelers with accessibility needs?
Yes, arrangements can be made for travelers with accessibility needs. You should inform your Trip Manager as soon as possible so they can contact accommodations and secure ground floor rooms for easy wheelchair access. However, please note that Italy can be physically challenging to get around, with lots of walking on uneven and cobbled roads.
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What type of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 14 breakfasts, 3 dinners, and 1 lunch. The included meals usually have a buffet setup, and vegetarian options can be arranged if you inform your Trip Manager beforehand.
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Can I refrigerate my medication on the coach?
Yes, you can refrigerate your medication on the coach. Inform your Trip Manager if you need refrigeration. Note that the fridge is turned off overnight, so you will need to take your medication with you into your accommodation. It is recommended to bring a cooler bag as a backup.
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What kind of activities are included in Florence?
In Florence, you will have a locally guided walking tour where you will see the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistery, and Piazza della Signoria. Additionally, there will be a Tuscan Risotto Evening where you can learn how to make risotto and enjoy a feast of Italian specialties.
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What can I expect during the visit to Cinque Terre?
Cinque Terre is made up of five stunning towns, each with its own unique identity and traditions. The tour includes an unlimited Cinque Terre hike and train ticket, allowing you to explore the dramatic cliff-faces and pastel-colored buildings.
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What are the highlights of the visit to Venice?
In Venice, you will cross the canal on a private boat to the historical heart of the city. You can opt for a gondola ride or explore the city on your own. There is also an option to cruise to the UNESCO-listed island of Burano and enjoy a seafood meal.
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What will we do on the Amalfi Coast?
On the Amalfi Coast, you will have a free day with optional activities, including a visit to a lemon farm where you can learn how lemons are harvested and turned into limoncello. There will also be a Tastes of Amalfi dinner.
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What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience in Sorrento?
In Sorrento, you will visit a third-generation family-owned farm to learn how mozzarella is made and enjoy a homemade meal. This experience is part of the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® initiative.
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What can I expect during the visit to Pompeii?
In Pompeii, you have the option to partake in a guided walking tour of the ancient Roman town that was destroyed by Vesuvius and perfectly preserved in volcanic ash.
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What will we do on the final day in Rome?
On the final day in Rome, you will have a guided tour around the Roman ruins and the Colosseum. There will also be an opportunity to make and eat your own pasta at a local restaurant.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Contiki allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform contiki, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Contiki requires a minimum deposit of 200 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of contiki charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 25% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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