Contrasts of Italy with Pearls of the Adriatic Lower Deck
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From the ancient capital of Rome to Venice, this journey connects two Italian masterpieces with a stop in Florence. Cruise the soul-stirring Croatian coastline from Opatija to Dubrovnik, delving behind the ancient walls of fortified towns and into a tranquil retreat that has attracted royalty over the centuries.
Benvenuti a Roma where we begin our exciting journey through some of Italy's most beautiful cities. Spend time relaxing after your travels or take a walk down memory lane, tracing centuries of art, antiquities and culture before joining your travel companions and Travel Director for a Welcome Reception and orientation drive through Rome's intoxicating cityscape.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Grand Palatino
We visit the centre of Christianity this morning, joining a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour which includes a visit to the imposing St. Peter's Basilica to see the Pietà, Michelangelo's masterpiece carved from the most 'perfect' block of marble. Our next stop is in Ancient Rome where we'll visit the Colosseum. Here gladiators and slaves met their end in a blaze of glory. See the Circus Maximus before returning to the Holy See this afternoon. Dive Into Culture and gain priority admission to the Vatican Museums where a Local Specialist will take us on a guided tour. Admire Michelangelo's magnificent frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel when it is less crowded and observe the array of incredible artefacts at the Museo Gregoriano Profano, founded in the Lateran Apostolic Palace at the behest of Gregory XVI Cappellari in 1844. We will also enjoy an al fresco dinner against the spectacular backdrop of St. Peter's. Should there be adverse weather, a contingency is provided in a newly-created dining space within the Ethnological Museum.
Enjoy a full free day in Rome or consider spending the day in beautiful Tivoli. Join an Optional Experience to see the exquisite house and gardens of the 16th-century Villa d'Este - a marvellous example of Renaissance landscape architecture. As the sun sets over the seven hills of Rome, people-watch in one of Rome’s beautiful squares, or admire the Trevi Fountain, tossing a coin to secure your return to Rome.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Piazzas and Fountains of Rome
Discover the most charming areas in the city with a Local Specialist. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and beautiful squares of Rome's historic centre, leading to highlights such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, as well as hidden corners of the Eternal City.
Adult Price: €33.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Delights of Rome with Dinner
Spend an evening getting to know Rome. We’ll take you via coach where you’ll have the chance to see some of the city’s much-loved sights. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a delicious light dinner of Italian specialities, alongside local music and drinks.
Adult Price: €50.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Tivoli And Gardens Of The Villa D’Este
Visit the ancient Sabine town of Tivoli with our Local Specialist to enjoy the gardens and fountains of the Villa D’Este. We'll see its grottos and pavilions, the Avenue of a Hundred Fountains, and the Dragon Fountain of the Organ.
Adult Price: €46.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 4
Journey By High-Speed Train to Florence
Sit back on the high-speed train, bound for Florence, and watch the Tuscan landscape go by. Join a Local Specialist on a walking tour to gain insights into the city's Renaissance treasures. View the Ponte Vecchio, almost 700 years old and lined with goldsmiths, then visit the Fine Arts Academy to see one of Michelangelo's masterpieces, the statue of David. Our love affair with Florence continues as we stroll to the Piazza della Signoria, featuring Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Gallery.
Cross the Arno River and see the enchanting skyline of Florence from Piazzale Michelangelo before driving to Pisa through the Arno Valley. Meet your Local Specialist to explore the Square of Miracles and see the famous Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, Baptistery and Camposanto, built on soil brought back from the Holy Land during the Crusades. Over lunch, Connect With Locals at the Agriturismo Borgo Vigna Vecchia where you'll enjoy an exclusive Be My Guest experience surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. This evening, stroll along the Arno River in search of the perfect gelato, see the beautifully lit Duomo or visit a cosy enoteca for some wine tasting.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast, Be My Guest
Optional Experience
Discover Palazzo Vecchio
Marvel at the legacy of the Medici as you visit Palazzo Vecchio, the symbol of Florence's political power for over seven centuries. With our Local Specialist we'll visit the wonderful "Hall of the Five Hundred", dedicated to the Medici dynasty. We'll also visit rooms decorated with masterpieces by famous artists of the Renaissance like Michelangelo and Donatello.
Adult Price: €39.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 6
Discover Renaissance Florence
Today is yours to discover the beauty and elegance of Florence - a city filled with exquisite galleries, lush gardens and opulent palaces. Consider a visit to the hilltop town of San Gimignano, the 'medieval Manhattan' of Tuscany. Venture outside the city to see Tuscan villages and taste rich panforte and tortas, or shop for the latest fashions in Florence's sophisticated boutiques. This evening, consider joining an Optional Experience in the Chianti region for a delicious Tuscan dinner.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Dinner, Wine And Music In The Tuscan Hills
This evening we'll take a scenic drive to experience a fun and relaxed evening at a friendly, family restaurant in the Tuscan countryside. After a welcome drink in the historic courtyard, the renowned local chef will delight your senses with regional dishes, made with traditional ingredients from the nearby produce markets. The excellent wines come from the Saraceni family vineyards and there's live music and song to complete the atmosphere. In short, a Tuscan dream come true in an authentic setting.
Adult Price: €65.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Visit To San Gimignano
Join us for a panoramic drive to the nearby hilltop town of San Gimignano with our Local Specialist. Magnificently preserved from the Middle Ages, this little town, known as the 'Medieval Manhattan', is one of the most beautiful in Italy - a true gem.
Adult Price: €36.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Optional Experience
Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli
Through the Chianti hills, we'll drive past vineyards to a delightful hamlet. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the great political theorist wrote his immortal work, ‘The Prince'. After a welcome drink and a visit of the villa and its wine-cellars, we'll enjoy the best of Tuscan cuisine accompanied by great music and drinks, including of course, Chianti from the Villa's own vines.
Adult Price: €65.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 7
Travel By High-Speed Train to Venice
All aboard the express train for Venice. We cross the spectacular Apennines and fertile Veneto plain before arriving in this island city. Get lost this afternoon, wandering its narrow lanes in search of a cosy bacaro, people-watch in St. Mark's Square, the gateway to Venice, or take an unforgettable gondola ride along the city's enchanting canals.
Trip Summary Accomodation IconHotel - Principe
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Gondolas and the Grand Canal
Join us for a breathtaking cruise by private water taxi along Venice's Grand Canal. You'll admire the magnificent palazzi, as well as catching a glimpse of the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. Later on, you'll glide gracefully on a gondola along Venice's dreamy, narrow waterways.
Adult Price: €70.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 8
Cruise the Canals of Venice
This morning, breathe in the salty sea air as you board a private launch and cruise to St. Mark's Square to see the Bridge of Sighs, Palladian Churches, the Customs House, St. Mark's Basilica and Campanile, as well as the Doge's Palace. Later, we Dive Into Culture, witnessing first-hand the centuries-old craft of glassmaking. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the city on your own terms. Find a quiet campo and pavement café or take a cruise to colourful Burano for a delicious meal.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
Optional Experience
Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks
This afternoon, discover the Venetian Lagoon by private boat. You'll enjoy a delicious meal, with a selection of drinks, on the fishermen's island of Burano, famous for its multi-coloured houses - a photographer's paradise.
Adult Price: €72.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 9
Experience Venice’s Food Market
The sights and sounds of modern Venice come to life today as we join our Local Specialist for a walking tour and explore the vibrant Rialto Food Market, which has been feeding Venetians since the 11th century. We wander through the narrow calli - seeing the ornate façades of merchant houses that line the canals, before enjoying an afternoon at leisure for one last taste of Venice. Our adventure through Italy's charming cities is about to come to an end. We celebrate newfound friendships and an unforgettable experience at a Farewell Dinner.
Accompanied by a Local Specialist, you'll visit the magnificent Doge's Palace with its elegant courtyards, home to the rulers of the Venetian republic. You’ll also enjoy a booked entrance into the Byzantine Basilica of St. Mark the Evangelist, patron saint of Venice.
Adult Price: €50.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Day 10
Embark and Cruise to Rab Island
Prime your sea legs this morning as you transfer to Opatija port and board the MV Aquamarin to meet your onboard team. This afternoon, you'll set sail for the 'island of love'. A guided tour of Rab will reveal its highlights, including its ancient walls, church bell towers and the monastery at the 16th-century Church of St. Justine. Sample Rab cake and enjoy a presentation of how this local delight is made. Rub shoulders with local artists who add a splash of colour to the streets of the town, then retire to the comfort of your cruise ship for the night.
Cruise to Zadar, Croatia's oldest university town. From the 1st-century Roman forum to the 9th-century St. Donat Church, there's history around every turn. After exploring the wealth of museums, churches and palaces, you'll make your way to Zadar's Riva to see (and hear) the mesmerising Sea Organ, comprising several stairs that descend into the sea.
Arrive in Skradin and travel to Bibich winery where you'll get to sample some of the indigenous varietals produced by this boutique family-owned winery. Next up is a visit to Krka Waterfalls National Park, where you'll visit 'Skradinski Buk', a spectacular vantage point from which to view 17 separate falls cascading 45 metres down to the pools below. Refreshed after taking a dip in the crystal waters, you'll have the afternoon off to explore the cultural monuments and waterfront attractions of Šibenik.
Your cruise continues towards the capital of Dalmatia and home to the UNESCO-listed Diocletian's palace. Explore Split's buzzing historical town centre on foot with your Local Specialist who'll share all the iconic and unexpected highlights with you as you wind your way towards Split Market.
Follow in the footsteps of ancient Illyrian, Greek and Roman sailors as you cruise to Metković. It's here, on the banks of the Neretva, that you'll find one of the last remaining wetland deltas in Europe. A barge ride into the groves provides the perfect opportunity to view the local flora, fauna and birdlife. Next, visit the Narona Archaeological Museum, where you'll see the remains of the Augusteum Roman temple, at the heart of what was once a major Roman stronghold. Tonight, you'll be hosted by the Captain for dinner.
Set sail for Korčula, most famously the birthplace of Marco Polo. You'll discover why the locals call it 'The Black Island' and see how its towering walls have shielded its capital for centuries. After a tour through the Old Town's narrow streets, you'll have time to soak up the local atmosphere in one of the many konobas, restaurants or cocktail bars.
Approaching Dubrovnik from the sea is a sight to behold. As you sail past its imposing walls, you'll get a glimpse of why George Bernard Shaw described the city as 'heaven on earth'. Lunch is served on deck as the ship moors in Gruz harbour. You'll be treated to a guided tour of the Old Town before spending the rest of the afternoon exploring on your own. You could choose to walk the ramparts, ascend Srđ mountain by cable car for spectacular views, or take a step back in time in its labyrinthine lanes.
Say a fond farewell to your newfound friends and take your airport transfer for your return flight.
Trip Summary Meals IconIncluded Meals - Breakfast
All optional experiences for this trip
Book with your travel director when you travel
Available on day 3
Piazzas and Fountains of Rome
Discover the most charming areas in the city with a Local Specialist. Wander through the labyrinth of narrow streets and beautiful squares of Rome's historic centre, leading to highlights such as the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon, as well as hidden corners of the Eternal City.
Adult Price: €33.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
Delights of Rome with Dinner
Spend an evening getting to know Rome. We’ll take you via coach where you’ll have the chance to see some of the city’s much-loved sights. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a delicious light dinner of Italian specialities, alongside local music and drinks.
Adult Price: €50.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 3
Tivoli And Gardens Of The Villa D’Este
Visit the ancient Sabine town of Tivoli with our Local Specialist to enjoy the gardens and fountains of the Villa D’Este. We'll see its grottos and pavilions, the Avenue of a Hundred Fountains, and the Dragon Fountain of the Organ.
Adult Price: €46.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 5
Discover Palazzo Vecchio
Marvel at the legacy of the Medici as you visit Palazzo Vecchio, the symbol of Florence's political power for over seven centuries. With our Local Specialist we'll visit the wonderful "Hall of the Five Hundred", dedicated to the Medici dynasty. We'll also visit rooms decorated with masterpieces by famous artists of the Renaissance like Michelangelo and Donatello.
Adult Price: €39.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 6
Dinner, Wine And Music In The Tuscan Hills
This evening we'll take a scenic drive to experience a fun and relaxed evening at a friendly, family restaurant in the Tuscan countryside. After a welcome drink in the historic courtyard, the renowned local chef will delight your senses with regional dishes, made with traditional ingredients from the nearby produce markets. The excellent wines come from the Saraceni family vineyards and there's live music and song to complete the atmosphere. In short, a Tuscan dream come true in an authentic setting.
Adult Price: €65.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 6
Visit To San Gimignano
Join us for a panoramic drive to the nearby hilltop town of San Gimignano with our Local Specialist. Magnificently preserved from the Middle Ages, this little town, known as the 'Medieval Manhattan', is one of the most beautiful in Italy - a true gem.
Adult Price: €36.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 6
Tuscan Dinner at Villa Machiavelli
Through the Chianti hills, we'll drive past vineyards to a delightful hamlet. Our destination is the ancient stone house of Machiavelli, where the great political theorist wrote his immortal work, ‘The Prince'. After a welcome drink and a visit of the villa and its wine-cellars, we'll enjoy the best of Tuscan cuisine accompanied by great music and drinks, including of course, Chianti from the Villa's own vines.
Adult Price: €65.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 7
Gondolas and the Grand Canal
Join us for a breathtaking cruise by private water taxi along Venice's Grand Canal. You'll admire the magnificent palazzi, as well as catching a glimpse of the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's Square. Later on, you'll glide gracefully on a gondola along Venice's dreamy, narrow waterways.
Adult Price: €70.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 8
Lagoon Cruise to Burano with Food and Drinks
This afternoon, discover the Venetian Lagoon by private boat. You'll enjoy a delicious meal, with a selection of drinks, on the fishermen's island of Burano, famous for its multi-coloured houses - a photographer's paradise.
Adult Price: €72.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
Available on day 9
Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica
Accompanied by a Local Specialist, you'll visit the magnificent Doge's Palace with its elegant courtyards, home to the rulers of the Venetian republic. You’ll also enjoy a booked entrance into the Byzantine Basilica of St. Mark the Evangelist, patron saint of Venice.
Adult Price: €50.00*
* The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
All Optional Experiences
The Optionals and pricing listed here are a guideline only and subject to change.
16 breakfasts, 7 lunches (including Be My Guest), 5 dinners
Trip Summary Transport Icon
On-trip Transport
All transport shown. VIP private door-to-door UK airport transfers included. *This service is excluded from UK-based trips.
The Trafalgar difference
Enjoy an exclusive Be My Guest lunch at the Agriturismo Borgo Vigna Vecchia in the Tuscan hills. (Day 5)
Dive into Culture
Dine amidst centuries of art and history in the Vatican Museums, enjoying after-hours access to the remarkable collections and the Sistine Chapel. (Day 2)
Witness the exquisite craft of glassblowing, a delicate tradition that generations of Venetian craftsmen have perfected over the centuries. (Day 8)
Sightseeing highlights
Experience Ti Filled Icon
VIP Admission to the Vatican Museums
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Explore Rome, Florence, Pisa, Venice, Korčula Old Town, Split, Rab and Opatija with a Local Specialist
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum in Rome, and the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence, Zadar, Šibenik, Skradinski Buk, Krka Waterfalls National Park, Bibich winery, Skradin, Split Market, the Narona Archaeological Museum, Metković and Dubrovnik
Experience Ti Filled Icon
See the Zadar Sea Organ and the Augusteum Roman Temple in Metković
Experience Ti Filled Icon
View the ancient sites in Rome, the Santa Croce Basilica and the Duomo in Florence, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and St. Mark's Basilica in Venice
Experience Ti Filled Icon
Scenic Cruise by private launch to St. Mark's Square in Venice
Cruise ship: This cruise is operated by Katarina Lines MV Aquamarin.
Shared Rooming: Room Share and Triple Rooms are not available on this trip.
Unless otherwise stated, trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discount. Discounts are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
Trip prices are correct at the time of the products going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. All trip information is correct at time of trips going live, however are subject to change - please confirm all details at time of booking.
Twin-share option not available for trips to South America, Costa Rica, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, South Africa, Kenya & Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia or for any holiday & cruise combination, or in Asia and Eastern Mediterranean except Highlights of Turkey (without cruise) & Best of Turkey. It's also not available on Small Group trips. Guided Vacations included in this restriction are Newfoundland and Labrador (DNLA) as well as Panama, the Canal & Beyond (LPAN).
For trips that are part of our Guaranteed Room Share, please note that there is a no smoking policy in all shared rooms. Solo travel is not accepted on guided Family Experiences holidays unless travelling as part of a family group.
VIP private door-to-door UK airport transfers included. *This service is excluded from UK-based trips.
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