Northern Italy Discovery - 13 days
Northern Italy Discovery - 13 days
Northern Italy Discovery - 13 days
13 Days Starting in Milan, Italy and ending in Verona, Italy
Visiting: Cinque Terre, Lucca, Florence, Tuscany, Montepulciano, Rome, Bologna, Padua, Venice, Verona
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
16-
Tour operated in:
EnglishActivities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating 13-day journey through Northern Italy, exploring its most iconic and picturesque destinations. Begin in Milan and venture to the colorful coastal villages of Cinque Terre, then marvel at the Leaning Tower of Pisa and stroll the ancient walls of Lucca. Discover Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance, and wander the historic streets of Rome. Savor the culinary delights of Bologna and the scientific heritage of Padua. Experience the enchanting canals of Venice and the serene beauty of Lake Garda. With guided tours, wine tastings, and ample free time, this small group tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and leisure, all while staying in comfortable 3-4 star accommodations. Enjoy the luxury of an air-conditioned mini-coach and the expertise of an English-speaking guide as you uncover the treasures of Italy.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Milan
Location: Cinque Terre
Accommodation Name: hotel
Milan - La Spezia - Cinque Terre - La Spezia. Our journey begins as we depart for La Spezia, hailed as the gateway to Cinque Terre. We take the train to this Italian highlight, a group of five colourful coastal villages, each boasting its own unique charm: Riomaggiore, Manarola, Corniglia, Vernazza, and Monterosso. Nestled along the rugged cliffs of the Italian Riviera, these villages offer a feast for the senses—vibrant houses, winding streets, breathtaking vistas, hiking trails, local delicacies, vineyards, and picturesque harbours await.
After exploring, we'll hop back on the train and return to La Spezia for the evening.
Please note: Check-in closes at 08:15 (tour departs at 08:30)- Milan Pick Up, Business Palace Milan, Milan.
From 1 April 2025 Check-in closes at 08:15 (tour departs at 08:30)- AC Hotel Milan Sesto 4*, Via Luciano Lama, 10, 20099 Milano MI, Italy.
Day 2: Lucca
Location: Lucca
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
La Spezia - Pietrasanta - Pisa - Lucca - Florence. As we bid farewell to La Spezia this morning, we embark on a journey back in time to the era of narrow medieval streets, charming piazzas, and majestic cathedrals. Along the northern Tuscan coast lies the picturesque town of Pietrasanta, affectionately known as the "City of Artists." Renowned for its rich tradition as a hub for sculptors and artists, we have time to explore this captivating destination.
Our next stop is Pisa, famed for its iconic Leaning Tower. There's free time for you to take in this famous building, stroll through the enchanting Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles), wander along the banks of the Arno River or explore the Camposanto Monumentale at leisure.
Next is the enchanting walled city of Lucca. Take a leisurely stroll along the ancient city walls, explore the picturesque Piazza dell'Anfiteatro, or immerse yourself in the beauty of Lucca's splendid churches, like the Cathedral of St. Martin. Then, we make our way to the vibrant city of Florence, where we stay for the next two nights.
Day 3: Florence
Location: Florence
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is completely free for you to explore Italy's Renaissance capital. Discover the mighty Duomo and visit some of the city's famed galleries, such as the Uffizi or the Galleria dell’Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David. Perhaps end the day at the Boboli Gardens, home to a myriad of statues, fountains, ponds and hidden mazes. We strongly recommend booking in advance any attractions you wish to visit in Florence on this day, to avoid disappointment.
Day 4: Florence
Location: Tuscany
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Florence - San Gimignano - Siena - Montepulciano. Bid farewell to Florence as we embark on a journey to explore Tuscany's enchanting medieval hill-towns. Travelling through the lush hills of the renowned Chianti wine region, we will be captivated by the 14 soaring towers of San Gimignano. Learn about the noble families which raced to build the tallest tower houses and savour local delicacies during a leisurely lunch.
Continuing south, we arrive at the day's highlight: Siena, a breathtaking red-brick city renowned for its Gothic architecture. The heart of Siena lies within the unique shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, this iconic square featured in James Bond's 'Quantum of Solace' chase scene. Our journey then winds along scenic country roads, until we reach Montepulciano in the early evening. This charming hilltop town in rural Tuscany will be our home for the next two nights.
Day 5: Montepulciano
Location: Montepulciano
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Montepulciano - Pienza - Montepulciano. Today, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of UNESCO-listed Val d'Orcia, where time seems to stand still. We begin our day with a self-guided exploration of Montepulciano, then journey to Pienza, a jewel of urban design and UNESCO World Heritage Site, often referred to as the 'Ideal City.' Next, we indulge in an included wine tasting at a selected winery dependent on availability.
Concluding our Val d'Orcia exploration, we visit Bagno Vignoni, renowned for its therapeutic hot springs. Today, you can admire this ancient spa and trace the flow of spring waters through the archaeological park. After savouring the best of rural Tuscany, we return to Montepulciano in the early evening for your second night.
Day 6: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Montepulciano - Sovana - Capodimonte - Rome. We say goodbye to the rolling Tuscan hills and begin our journey to the Italian capital, Rome. Along the way there's an optional visit to the Sovana Necropolis and the Vie Cave, an ancient road network carved way back in the Bronze Age. We stop in the small town of Sovana so you can grab some lunch, before continuing to Capodimonte. Soak up the views of this small town, located on the shore of Bolsena Lake. Then it's on to Rome, where the evening is at leisure.
Day 7: Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is free for you to explore the country's capital. Obvious highlights include the Roman Colosseum, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. There's also the historic Roman Forum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and the Spanish Steps to discover.
We suggest you book tickets to the city's main attractions in advance, to save time and avoid disappointment.
Please note: In Rome, some members of your group may be ending their tour, and others may join. You may also meet a new guide for the next part of your trip, and change vehicle.
Day 8: Bologna
Location: Bologna
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rome - Orvieto - Bologna. We leave Rome's hustle and bustle for the serene charm of Orvieto, an idyllic Italian village known for its traffic-free streets and exquisite wines. Visit the vibrant cathedral and explore at your own pace. Next, venture through Parco Naturale Le Balze, a landscape that inspired Leonardo da Vinci, with striking balze rock formations, sulphur streams, and stunning vistas.
We make a lunch stop in the quaint hamlet of Piantravigne, offering authentic Italian cuisine. Satisfied and reinvigorated, we continue our journey to the enchanting city of Bologna, where we spend the night.
Day 9: Bologna
Location: Bologna
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bologna - Ravenna - Bologna. In the morning, we embark on a half-day trip to Ravenna, renowned for its mosaic masterpieces and unique blend of early Christian and Byzantine architecture. With eight UNESCO-listed sites, it's an unforgettable destination and the final resting place of Dante Alighieri.
After lunch, we return to Bologna, and the afternoon is at leisure. This Renaissance city, a hub of art and intellectual innovation, boasts the western world's oldest university. Stroll along the extensive UNESCO-listed porticos, uncover the university's secrets, or savour the flavours of Ragu alla Bolognese.
Day 10: Padua
Location: Padua
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bologna - Po Delta - Padua. It's time for a sun-soaked adventure as we begin in Porto Tolle. There is an optional boat trip along the Po Delta. The Po is Italy's longest river, which offers a chance to spot rare migratory birds. Returning to solid ground, we journey to Este, a picturesque town with a 3,000-year history. Here we enjoy free time to stroll along city walls or visit the moated Medieval castle.
Next, we head to Padua, believed to be Italy's oldest city, where we stay for three nights. This city at the intersection of science and religion is home to the revered St. Anthony's tomb and was a hub of Renaissance-era scientific breakthroughs.
Day 11: Venice
Location: Venice
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Padua - Venice - Padua. Today, we explore Venice, known as 'the Floating City,' with its 177 canals, 350 gondoliers, and unparalleled cityscape.
Venice's history is rich with wealth, trade, and power. Built on 118 islands, it hosts world-famous festivals and boasts a unique painting style and architecture, making it a Renaissance masterpiece on par with Rome and Florence. Upon arrival, we enjoy a two-hour guided walking tour, taking in highlights such as St Mark's Square. There is then free time for you to further explore at your own pace. From an excursion on one of the city's famous gondolas, to exploring renowned galleries, use this time as you wish. In the early evening, we return to Padua.
Day 12: Wines, Spirits & Castles
Location: Padua
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Padua - Valdobbiadene - Padua. Our first stop of the day is Villa Pisani, where we explore fantastic art exhibitions within this prime example of late baroque architecture. This grand estate was once owned by Napoleon, who gifted it to his stepson. Entrance to Villa Pisani is included. Next, we head to Valdobbiadene, where we can savour the region's finest prosecco. An exclusive optional tasting awaits, promising the freshest prosecco you've ever experienced.
Our indulgent journey continues in Bassano del Grappa, offering a chance to sample sweet and potent Grappa. If you've had your fill of spirits, admire the castle and the town's famous old bridge instead. Our day concludes as we return to Padua for your final evening in this historic town.
Day 13: Verona
Location: Verona
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Padua - Verona - Garda - Milan. We begin our final day with a visit to Verona, the backdrop of famous William Shakespeare play, Romeo and Juliet. Spend time reminiscing at the famous balcony, marvel at a grand Roman Colosseum, and stroll through ancient piazzas at your leisure. Next, we head to Lake Garda, cherished by artists, poets, and travellers for its crystal-clear waters and Dolomite vistas since Roman times. Take in the incredible views of this Italian lake before we continue to Milan, where our tour ends.
Please note: This tour finishes at 19:00 - Milan Drop Off, Business Palace Milan, Milan.
From 1 April 2025: This tour finishes at 19:00 - AC Hotel Milan Sesto 4*, Via Luciano Lama, 10, 20099 Milano MI, Italy.
What's Included
-
Accommodation
3-4 star hotels -
12 breakfasts
-
12 nights in 3-4 star hotels
-
Escorted by an English-speaking guide
-
Transportation in an air-conditioned luxury mini-coach with a local driver
-
Train to Cinque Terre as part of the Cinque Terre Card
-
Wine tasting and tour of the Solaria Winery
-
Two-hour guided walking tour of Venice
-
Entrance to Villa Pisani
-
20kg luggage - see Trip Notes for details
-
Tourist taxes
What's Not Included
-
International flights & visas
-
Airport transfers
-
Meals not specified in itinerary
-
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture!
-
Entry fees unless specified
Age Policy
Minimum age 16, escorted by an adult
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with transportation provided by an air-conditioned luxury mini-coach, accompanied by a local driver, and enjoy a scenic train journey to Cinque Terre as part of the Cinque Terre Card.
Accommodation
Enjoy 12 nights in comfortable 3-4 star hotels, providing a relaxing retreat after each day's exploration of Northern Italy's stunning landscapes and historic cities.
Check out our Q&As
-
What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?
The tour includes 12 nights in 3-4 star hotels.
-
Is there a guide accompanying the tour?
Yes, the tour is escorted by an English-speaking guide.
-
What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned luxury mini-coach with a local driver.
-
Is there any wine tasting included in the tour?
Yes, there is a wine tasting and tour of the Solaria Winery included in the tour.
-
Are there any guided tours included in the itinerary?
Yes, a two-hour guided walking tour of Venice is included.
-
What is the luggage allowance for the tour?
The tour includes a 20kg luggage allowance. Please see the Trip Notes for details.
-
Are there any meals included in the tour?
The tour includes 12 breakfasts.
-
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is operated in conjunction with a trusted partner, and you will join travelers from different operators, not solely On The Go, making it suitable for solo travelers.
-
What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
-
Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
Save on this tour
Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!
Send me one now.Book with Confidence
-
Transfer as credit to Future Tours
On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.
-
Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Enquire for huge savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.