Essence of Italy

An Iconic Journey Through Rome, Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast
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11 Days/10 Nights

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At a Glance

Essence of Italy is a refined small-group journey designed to offer a well-balanced and meaningful introduction to Italy’s most iconic regions, combining culture, gastronomy, leisure and seamless logistics.

An expertly curated 11-day escorted private tour of Italy, designed as an intimate small-group journey featuring handpicked 4-star hotels, daily breakfasts, and a dedicated English-speaking driver assistant and vehicle at your disposal throughout the entire journey, ensuring seamless logistics and continuous on-tour support.
The experience includes guided visits with professionally licensed English-speaking guides and entrance tickets to Italy’s most iconic landmarks, authentic food and wine experiences, a private Capri boat tour, a full-day Amalfi Coast excursion, and 24/7 assistance for complete peace of mind.

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The experience begins with an overnight stay in Rome, allowing guests to arrive and settle in comfortably before the journey unfolds. The itinerary then continues to Florence, with three nights dedicated to discovering the artistic and cultural heritage of Tuscany, complemented by a scenic excursion through the countryside, including historic towns and a local winery experience.

The journey returns to Rome for a three-night stay, providing ample time for an in-depth exploration of the Eternal City. Guided experiences focus on both its classical and spiritual heritage, with curated visits to its most renowned landmarks, enriched by knowledgeable local guides and a thoughtfully paced program.

The final portion of the journey is based in Sorrento, with three nights in southern Italy. This coastal location serves as an ideal base for enjoying the region’s highlights, offering a more relaxed rhythm and breathtaking panoramas over the Amalfi Coast and the Bay of Naples.

The itinerary concludes with a smooth transfer to Rome Fiumicino Airport.

Essence of Italy is ideal for travelers seeking a cohesive, well-structured small-group experience that captures Italy’s timeless beauty through carefully selected destinations, expert guidance, and a relaxed yet enriching pace.

Overview

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Itinerary Overview

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At a Glance

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Map

1. FCO Rome Airport

Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, Fiumicino, Rome, Italy

2. Florence

Florence, Italy

3. Montepulciano

Montepulciano, Italy

4. San Gimignano

San Gimignano, Italy

5. Siena

Siena, Italy

6. Orvieto

05018 Orvieto TR, Italia

7. Rome

Rome, Italy

8. Pompeii

Pompeii, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

9. Sorrento

Sorrento, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

10. Capri

Capri, Metropolitan City of Naples, Italy

11. Positano

Positano, Province of Salerno, Italy

12. Amalfi

Amalfi, Province of Salerno, Italy

13. Ravello

Ravello, Province of Salerno, Italy

14. Aeroporto di Roma - Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci

Via Pierpaolo Racchetti, 1, 00054 Fiumicino RM, Italia

Day 1 - May 24, 2026

Arrival Day
Day 1 - May 24, 2026 image
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Arrival into FCO Rome Airport

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Transfer To Rome

Your driver will be waiting for you at meeting point 1 of terminal 3. Once you have collected your luggage, please proceed to the exit, where you will see the columns with the meeting number. The driver will be there with a sign displaying your name and will guide you to the hotel.

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Hotel Stendhal

Check inSunday, May 24, 202614:00
Check outMonday, May 25, 2026
Room typeClassic Standard Room

Experience the elegance of Hotel Stendhal, ideally located in the heart of Rome, just a short walk from the Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. This charming hotel boasts art-filled interiors that reflect the city's rich history, situated in a prime area that allows you to explore the city's iconic landmarks with ease. Enjoy personalized service and a delightful breakfast featuring local specialties, making it a memorable stay in the Eternal City.

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Remainder of the day/evening at your leisure

  • Once you settle into your hotel, you will have free time to explore the stunning beauty of Rome on foot. Just a few steps away, you can enjoy the dolce vita along Via Veneto, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and visit the iconic Spanish Steps and Trinità dei Monti. Don't forget the famous shopping street, Via Condotti, nearby! There are also hundreds of restaurants to choose from, with Roman cuisine being the most renowned.

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Day 2 - May 25, 2026

Drive to Florence
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Check out from Rome Hotel

Check outMonday, May 25, 20269:00
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Transfer from Rome Hotel to Florence

  • Meet your driver at the lobby of your hotel at 9:00 AM for a scenic drive to Florence. On the way, we’ll stop in Montepulciano, a charming hilltop town known for its stunning Renaissance architecture and beautiful vineyards. You'll have about an hour to explore its quaint streets and breathtaking views.

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La Braccesca Antinori Winery

DateMonday, May 25, 202613:00
  • After our visit, we’ll head to a renowned winery of the Antinori family. Here, you'll tour the farm, enjoy a delightful wine tasting, and explore the cellar. A delicious lunch featuring cured meats, cheese, pasta, and, of course, wine and desserts awaits you!

  • Following the winery visit, we’ll continue our journey to Florence, where we’ll check in at the hotel.

  • La Braccesca in Montepulciano is a charming restaurant that focuses on traditional Tuscan cuisine, using fresh, local ingredients. Guests can enjoy an array of local wines expertly paired with delectable dishes, all within a warm and inviting atmosphere. This dining experience celebrates authentic recipes, making it a delightful stop for food lovers.

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Relais Uffizi

Check inMonday, May 25, 2026
Check outThursday, May 28, 2026
Room typeSuperior room
  • Experience the heart of Florence at Relais Uffizi, steps away from the iconic Uffizi Gallery. This charming accommodation combines historic elegance with modern comfort in beautifully designed rooms that offer stunning city views. Enjoy personalized service, a cozy library corner, and complimentary guided tours to truly immerse yourself in Florentine culture.

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Day 3 - May 26, 2026

Let’s explore Florence
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Florence Unveiled

DateTuesday, May 26, 202609:00
  • Meet your guide directly at the hotel lobby at 9:00 AM.

  • You will enjoy a guided tour of Florence with a professionally licensed, English-speaking guide

  • Visit iconic sites such as the Accademia to see Michelangelo’s famous Statue of David, as well as Piazza Santa Croce, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo, and enjoy a visit to the Uffizi

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Tickets

  • Entrance tickets to Accademia and Uffizi included

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Day 4 - May 27, 2026

Siena & San Gimignano with winery
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Siena & San Gimignano

DateWednesday, May 27, 202609:00
  • Explore the enchanting city of Siena with a professionally licensed, English-speaking guide. Marvel at the breathtaking Piazza del Campo and consider visiting one of the city’s iconic contrade.

  • Next, travel to San Gimignano, a medieval gem celebrated for its striking towers and picturesque streets.

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Vineyard Flavors

  • Savor a delightful wine tasting and light lunch at a charming local winery, nestled among rolling vineyards.

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Day 5 - May 28, 2026

Drive to Rome
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Check out from Florence Hotel

Check inThursday, May 28, 202609:00
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Transfer from Florence Hotel to Rome

  • Meet your driver in the lobby of your hotel.

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Orvieto at a Glance

  • Enjoy a leisurely transfer to Rome, including a 2-hour stop in Orvieto, a stunning hilltop town known for its breathtaking views and rich history.

  • Explore its charming streets, visit the impressive Duomo, and savor local delicacies at quaint cafes, where you can truly soak in the Italian atmosphere.

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Hotel Stendhal

Check inThursday, May 28, 2026
Check outSunday, May 31, 2026
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Day 6 - May 29, 2026

Rome Part 1
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Best of Rome

DateFriday, May 29, 202609:00
  • Enjoy a captivating 4-hour guided tour of Rome’s city center with a professionally licensed, English-speaking guide.

  • Sites include the stunning Navona Square, the majestic Pantheon, the iconic Trevi Fountain, the charming Spanish Steps, and the grand St. Peter’s Square.

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Vatican Museums & Sistine Chapel Entrance Tickets

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Golf Cart tour

  • Embark on a 3-hour guided golf cart tour of Rome's main attractions.

  • Meet your knowledgeable golf cart guide directly at your hotel, who will lead you on an enchanting journey through the heart of this beautiful city.

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Day 7 - May 30, 2026

Rome part 2
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Ancient Rome Highlights

DateSaturday, May 30, 202609:00
Duration4 Hours
  • Enjoy a captivating 4-hour guided tour of Rome’s city center with a professionally licensed, English-speaking guide.

  • Sites to be visited include the iconic Colosseum, the historic Roman Forum, Palatine Hill, Aventine Hill, and the stunning Capitoline Hill.

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Colosseum & Roman Forum Entrance Tickets

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Flavors of Rome

Time13:30
  • Prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary adventure as you embark on a delightful 2.5-hour guided walking food tour through Rome's trendy neighborhoods.

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Day 8 - May 31, 2026

Transfer to Sorrento with Pompeii and Olive Oil Tour
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Check out of Rome hotel

Check outSunday, May 31, 2026
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Transfer from Rome to Sorrento

Departure09:00
  • Meet your driver and enjoy a comfortable transfer from Rome to Sorrento, making two delightful stops along the way.

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Pompeii Ruins

  • Enjoy a 2-hour stop in Pompeii with a professionally licensed Engpish speaking guide.

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Pompeii Ruins Tickets

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Hotel Plaza Sorrento

Check inSunday, May 31, 2026
Check outWednesday, Jun 3, 2026
Experience the allure of Sorrento at Hotel Plaza Sorrento, where stunning views of the Bay of Naples await. Situated in the heart of the city, this hotel offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and local transportation for Amalfi Coast adventures. Enjoy the rooftop terrace, outdoor pool, and charming decor that captures the essence of Italy.
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Day 9 - June 1, 2026

Capri
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Port Transfer

DepartureMonday, Jun 1, 202608:45
  • Roundtrip transportation from the hotel to the port

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Capri Boat Tour

Departure09:00
  • Enjoy a boat tour with an English-speaking skipper

  • Drinks, snacks, towels and snorkeling equipment included

  • Tour around the island, with visits to the White and Green Grottos

  • And admire the breathtaking Faraglioni rocks, featured in the famous Dolce & Gabbana commercial

  • Entrance to the Blue Grotto, subject to weather and sea conditions, and entrance fees are separate (to be paid on site)

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Seasonal service. During off season or not favorable weather conditions, a private, professionally licensed guide will accompany you to Capri via hydrofoil and provide a guided walking tour of the island.

Day 10 - June 2, 2026

Cliffs, Colors & Coastal Charm
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Full-Day Journey through the Amalfi Coast

DateTuesday, Jun 2, 202609:00
  • Discover the iconic towns of the Amalfi Coast, including Positano, Amalfi and Ravello, each offering breathtaking views, vibrant colors, and timeless Mediterranean charm

  • Enjoy leisure time in each village to explore winding streets, scenic terraces and local artisan shops

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Day 11 - June 3, 2026

Departure from Italy
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Check out from Sorrento hotel

Check outWednesday, Jun 3, 2026
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Time to say goodbye 😔

  • Meet your driver at the hotel lobby and transfer to either Naples or Rome, to the airport or city center.

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No Hidden costs

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Included

  • Overnight at the elegant Hotel Stendhal in Rome

  • 3 nights at the charming Relais Uffizi Hotel in Florence

  • 3 additional nights at the Hotel Stendhal in Rome

  • 3 nights at the picturesque Hotel Plaza in Sorrento

  • Breakfasts included at all hotels for a delightful start to your day

  • Private English-speaking driver and luxury vehicle for seamless transfers and day tours as specified

  • Private, professionally licensed English-speaking guides for all activities outlined in the itinerary

  • Entrance tickets to iconic sites including the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, Accademia Gallery, Uffizi, and Pompeii Ruins

  • Wine tasting experiences in the scenic towns of Montepulciano and San Gimignano

  • Delicious food tour in the trendy Trastevere neighborhood

  • Private guided golf cart tour through the enchanting streets of Rome

  • Exclusive Capri boat tour with a knowledgeable English-speaking skipper

  • Day tour along the breathtaking Amalfi Coast, visiting the stunning towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello

  • Phone assistance available 24/7 for your peace of mind

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Not Included

  • Gratuities

  • Any meal or beverage not mentioned above

  • Flight tickets

  • Travel insurance

  • Any item not specifically mentioned in the inclusions

Our Fleet

Luxury Mercedes vehicles
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Travel in style, arrive in elegance, and discover Italy from the refined comfort of a Mercedes luxury vehicle.

Based on the number of guests in your party, we will provide the most suitable and comfortable vehicle option, carefully selected from the following available solutions to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.

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Unlike large tour operators that operate shared group tours by bus, our company uses private, fully authorized vehicles that, in the vast majority of cases, are permitted to access historic city centers directly. This allows guests to be dropped off just steps from the main attractions, avoiding unnecessary walking and loss of valuable touring time.

As a result, our guests benefit from a more efficient and enjoyable experience, maximizing the time dedicated to visiting sites of interest rather than managing logistics. In addition, both our company and our vehicles are fully insured, and our fleet consists exclusively of new vehicles, no more than two years old, all fully air-conditioned and equipped with onboard Wi-Fi, ensuring the highest standards of comfort, safety, and reliability throughout the journey.

What do our guests think?

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