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Bella Italia: Mainland to Sicily

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Operated by Globus
Tripcode: LILP
Overview
Destination:
Italy
Duration:23 days
Type:Group tour (max 44)
Travel Period
April 2026 - September 2026
23 days from Rome to Taormina Riviera
Like the beautiful mosaics gracing the floors and walls of ancient Roman villas, we’ve brought together the most brilliant parts of Italy to create an impact with this visually stunning vacation. Hand selecting experiences from multiple regions of “the boot,” we’ve assembled an imaginative getaway with the brightest pieces of Rome, Florence, and Venice, plus the sultry Italian Riviera, the breezy Lake District, and the sunny coast of Campania. The pastel-tinted Cinque Terre fishing villages, the sparkling blue waters of Capri, and the lemon-tree-lined streets of Sorrento offer a vivid picture of Italy, while the pilgrimage destination of Assisi, the Roman ash preserved city of Pompeii, and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa provide just the right accents. Traveling north, south, coastal, and inland, this multi-hued tour of Italy is a picture-perfect montage of memories.
Trekked by more than half of humankind’s ancient world, modern day Sicily still offers off-the-beaten-path discoveries that reveal an undiscovered side of Italy. The Phoenicians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Normans, French, Germans, Spanish, Italians, and even the British have left an impression on this gorgeous island, and it shows in its diverse architecture, unique culture, and multinational cuisine. As you trace the sparkling coast from the flamboyant capital city of Palermo to the ultra-chic Taormina Riviera, you can expect stunning archaeological treasures, ancient works of art, and a warm welcome at every turn, and a cool gelato on every corner. Traditional granita, cannoli, and Marsala wine serve to sweeten the experience on this Undiscovered Tour of Italy&Sicily.

PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Rome, Venice and Ragusa so you can plan your day your way.
All This. Included
Special Features Included in this Tour:
• Globus Choice excursions in Rome − Included in your tour with your choice of a guided sightseeing to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel, and sights ofSt. Peter’s Square, St. Peter’s Basilica, and Castel Sant’Angelo, or a guided visit to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, the hub of Imperial Rome
• Visit to Pisa’s “Square of Miracles” for a photo opportunity at the Leaning Tower
• Guided walking tour in Florence
• [LF] Guided scenic boat ride (weather permitting) along the Cinque Terre coastline
• [LF] Panoramic boat ride on Lake Maggiore with dinner on Isola Madre
• Orientation tour of Lugano, Switzerland
• Globus Choice excursions in Venice − Included in your tour with your choice of a guided walking tour to see St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, the Doge’s Palace and Bridge of Sighs, or an aperitivo in a historic St. Mark’s Square caffè
• Guided walking tour in Assisi includes St. Clare’s Church and St. Francis’ Basilica
• Guided sightseeing in Capri features a funicular ride and a [LF] complementary grantita tasting at the Augustus Gardens
• Guided walking tour of the archaeological site of Pompeii
• Visit to Sorrento
• Private boat ride on Venice’s canals
• Jetfoil ride to Capri Island
• Guided sightseeing in Palermo followed by a scenic drive to Monreale
• Visit to a traditional salt mill with wine-tasting experience in Marsala
• Guided walking tour of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples
• Guided sightseeing in Mazaro del Vallo
• Guided visit to Villa Romana del Casale in Piazza Armerina
• Guided walking tour of Ragusa Ibla
• Globus Choice excursions in Ragusa – Included in your tour with your choice of a visit to an authentic Carrettieri (Sicilian carts) workshop or a visit to Palazzo Arezzo di Trifiletti with a guided owner-led tour
• Guided visit to Syracuse’s Archaeological Park
• Complimentary [LF] Granita (semi-frozen drink) and brioche tasting at the Bar Vitelli of Savoca− “The Godfather” filming location
• Visit to Taormina’s ancient Greek theater
• Orientation walks in Catania and Taormina
• Visit Erice and Noto
Highlights:
Standard inclusions
  • 22 Breakfasts, 9 Dinners
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Itinerary
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ARRIVE IN ROME, ITALY
Welcome to Rome!
At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)
ROME
Spend your day your way in Rome.

Rome of the Caesars
Time travel to ancient Rome! Stand in the Colosseum and let your imagination be captured by stories of gladiator games and emperor reigns. Delve deeper into the Rome of the Caesars with a guided walk through the Roman Forum, once the beating heart of the Roman Empire; see the Palatine Hill considered to be the birthplace of Rome.
The Papal City
Explore the Papal City for a guided visit of the extensive Vatican Museums. Lift your eyes to the heavens in the Sistine Chapel to marvel at Michelangelo¿s masterpiece ceiling fresco, then continue to St. Peter¿s Square to see the breathtaking St. Peter¿s Basilica. Stroll along the Via della Conciliazione to admire Castel Sant'Angelo, the former Papal Fortress.

Explore more of Rome with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.

Enjoy free time later this afternoon and evening to explore more of this charismatic city. * (B)

* For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.


ROME–PISA–FLORENCE
The Tilted Tower
Leave the hustle and bustle of Rome behind as you relax for a scenic drive past the olive groves and vineyards that extend over the rolling green hills of Umbria and Tuscany. En route to Florence, enjoy a stop in Pisa to visit the Square of Miracles, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and location of one of the most recognizable monuments in the world – the Leaning Tower of Pisa. (B)
280 mi / 450 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SPOT See architecture gone askew from the viewpoint of the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa. Take the ultimate selfie in front of the Leaning Tower with a tilt of the head or other popular poses to commemorate your visit to the site of medieval art in this beautiful piazza.
FLORENCE
Fine Art in Firenze
Florence is one of Italy’s most celebrated cities. Meet your local guide for a walk through the historic center, stopping to admire and learn more about the cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower, the massive bronze doors of the Baptistry’s “Gates of Paradise,” the sculptures of Signoria Square, and the Ponte Vecchio. This afternoon free time to explore more of Florence “La bella.” (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Those lucky enough to visit the Tuscan capital are witness to some of the world’s most magnificent art. Home to a wealth of Rennaissance masterpieces, Florence is famous for Michelangelo’s Marble Masterpiece, David, standing ready for battle while Piazza del Duomo and Signoria Square offer spectacular sights of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance art, architecture, and monuments.
FLORENCE–CINQUE TERRE–LAKE MAGGIORE
Italian Treasures
This morning drive to La Spezia, the starting point of your Cinque Terre adventure. [LF] Join a guided boat ride (weather permitting) to admire the dramatic scenery along the Cinque Terre coast. Arrive in Monterosso, one of the 5 villages, for some free time before boarding a train to continue your journey. Later, drive to Lake Maggiore. (B,D)
311 mi / 500 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Take a stunning cruise on the coast of Cinque Terre for an exquisite look at sea, sky, and centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline.
LAKE MAGGIORE. EXCURSION TO ISOLA MADRE
Island Beauties
Relax on the peaceful shores of Lake Maggiore. Late afternoon, [LF] board a private boat to cross the calm waters to Isola Madre, the largest of the Borromean Islands. Enjoy a guided visit of the English-style botanical gardens before sitting down for dinner at a local restaurant on the island. (B,D)

LOCAL FAVORITE
PICTURE PERFECT Isola Madre is one of the starring beauties of the Borromean Islands and transport those who cross Lake Maggiore into a reverie of Baroque palazzos and perfect gardens. On the island, a showcase of exotic botanical beauty surrounds the 16th-century Palazzo Borromeo with magnificent magnolias, myrtles, wisteria, and citrus groves. Enjoy dinner at the island restaurant combining good food and stunning views of the lake.
LAKE MAGGIORE–LUGANO, SWITZERLAND–VENICE ISLAND, ITALY
Swiss Views & A Scenic Cruise
Depart Italy this morning and cross the border into Switzerland. Visit the lakefront city of Lugano. Enjoy free time to admire the buildings and browse the stores in the pedestrian center or to stroll along the lakeside promenade. Continue to Venice Island and take a private boat ride. (B)
245 mi / 395 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Discover the city of Lugano to see its mix of Italian and Swiss, style and culture reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Standing on the Lake northern shore, the city is surrounded by mountain peaks. Piazza della Riforma and pastel palazzos share the ambience of this lovely Swiss city with impressive architecture and bold and innovative street art.
VENICE ISLAND
Spend your day your way in Venice
Enjoy a private boat ride. On disembarkation walk to an historic vetreria (glass factory) to meet a local glassblower and learn how the world-famous Murano glass is created. Explore more of Venice with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.

Palaces & Pontoons
Your Local Guide shares legendary stories on a Venice walking tour, featuring iconic St. Mark¿s Square, with views of its landmark columns, Basilica, and Clock Tower. Enjoy skip-the-line access and guided visit to magnificent Doge¿s Palace, with its lavish rooms and infamous Bridge of Sighs which offered a final glimpse of the outside world to prisoners crossing to prison.
Location, Location, Location!
Once described by Napoleon as "the world's most beautiful drawing room," St. Mark's Square remains the beating heart of Venice. After a short stroll through some picturesque calli (alleyways), take a seat in a historic café for a taste of Venetian café culture. Enjoy a refreshment served with unrivaled views of Venetian landmarks!

An afternoon and evening at leisure to meander along the canals and through the typical Venetian “calli and campi.” (alleyways and squares). (B)
VENICE ISLAND–ASSISI
Medieval Marvels
Scenic drive through the Apennine Mountains to the stunning hilltop town of Assisi, an important center for both religion and art, and birthplace of St. Francis. Meet the local guide for a walking tour in the medieval center which includes a visit to the Basilicas of St. Clare and St. Francis. (B,D)
261 mi / 420 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ICONIC FOOTSTEPS Walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi with a visit to the Basilica named after the deacon, friar, and mystic, who became one of the most venerated religious figures in Christianity. Revered for his love of the Eucharist and the Earth, Francis found communion with God through nature here in this Italian village where he lived and died. Marvel at the magnificent frescoes by Italian master Giotto that adorn the Basilica where the Saint is buried.
ASSISI–SORRENTO AREA
Italian Vistas
Watch the changing scenery as you drive south, from the lush green hills of Umbria, through drier mountainous areas until you arrive at the dramatic Sorrentine coastline that hugs the Bay of Naples. (B)
267 mi / 430 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Join the ranks of holiday-goers on the sun-kissed cliffs of Sorrento, where literati like Byron, Goethe, Dickens, and Tolstoy soaked in the sun and took their inspiration from atop the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Here, in the town of lemons, you can give in to the sweet temptations of lemon gelato and limoncello to toast the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
SORRENTO AREA. EXCURSION TO CAPRI
Coves, Cliffs & The Clear Blue Sea
Relax on a jetfoil as you cross the Bay of Naples to the captivating island of Capri. Join your Local Guide for a funicular ride from the harbour to Capri village followed by a guided sightseeing. [LF] Visit the Augustus Gardens, enjoy a granita (semi-frozen drink) and admire the incredible views of the iconic Faraglioni rocks. Return to the mainland for free time this afternoon and evening. (B)

LOCAL FAVORITE
NATURAL WONDERS Nestled high above the sea on the island of Capri lie the exquisite Gardens of Augustus. This natural paradise promises 180-degree panoramic views and a kaleidoscope of botanical brilliance on the cliffs overlooking the island and the sapphire sea below. Toast the view with a glass of granita for a frozen treat amid the sun-washed monuments and mesmerizing vistas.
SORRENTO AREA–POMPEII–ROME
Time Standing Still in Pompeii
This morning, together with a local guide, visit the incredible excavations of Pompeii. As you walk along the ancient streets, hear about day-to-day life under the Roman Empire and the events surrounding the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. After some free time for lunch, return to Rome and join your traveling companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
193 mi / 310 km

* For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDS & LORE The fascinating archaeological site of Pompeii is a treasured glimpse into Roman life near the Bay of Naples. This once thriving and sophisticated Roman city was consumed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., with its residents and structures buried beneath inescapable ash and stone. See the preserved site of excavated ruins that reveal remarkable frescoes, artwork, and artifacts within its streets and dwellings of the people who perished here.
ROME–PALERMO *
Transfer to Palermo (B)

* Tour Director and travel companions will change for the second part of the itinerary.
PALERMO
Free day to esplore the Sicilian biggest city. (B,D)
PALERMO
Sicilian Sights
Your introduction to Palermo starts this morning with a guided sightseeing tour of Palermo’s highlights, including a visit to the cathedral. Take a scenic drive to Monreale for a panoramic view of the Conca d’Oro and a visit to the Norman Cathedral. This afternoon and evening, enjoy free time to see more of Palermo. (B)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDARY LIVES The story of the splendid Monreale Cathedral began as Arabs took control of Palermo. They transformed the cathedral into a mosque and banished the Bishop of Palermo from town. Not wishing to venture too far from his beloved cathedral, the bishop settled in a small village in the hills overlooking Palermo, the site of modern-day Monreale. There, he built a modest church to keep the flame of local Christian worship alive. Today the cathedral is known for its stunning mosaics that cover an area of over 64.500sq ft.
PALERMO–ERICE–MARSALA–MAZARA DEL VALLO
Sweet & Salty Sicily
Stop at the medieval hilltop town of Erice. Enjoy some free time to meander the narrow, cobbled streets and admire the views. Drive to the coastal town of Marsala, learn about one of its oldest industries with a guided visit of a Salt Mill. Later, try the famous Marsala wine during a tasting experience. (B)
99 mi / 160 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Lagoons, salt pans and windmills can be found along the coastline near Marsala. Learn all about the production of salt when visiting one of the original salt mills.
MAZARA DEL VALLO–AGRIGENTO
Timeless Temples
This morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Mazara del Vallo which includes a visit to the cathedral and old town. Appreciate the Arabic influence on the town when you follow a Local Guide through the alleyways of the Kasbah. Later, continue to Agrigento, location of a real cultural treasure, the UNESCO nominated Valley of the Temples. Join your Local Guide for a walk through this remarkable archaeological site to see the beautiful Greek temples. (B,D)
93 mi / 150 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ANCIENT ARCHAEOLOGY The ruins of Akragas remain Sicily's most amazing archaeological site. The impressively well-preserved Tempio della Concordia sits in a spectacular setting upon a ridge where it served as a beacon for homecoming sailors and today draws enthralled visitors to revel in the remarkable Valley of the Temples.
AGRIGENTO–PIAZZA ARMERINA–RAGUSA
Ancient Artistry in Sicily
Travel through Central Sicily and stop in Piazza Armerina for a guided visit of the Villa Romana del Casale, housing one of the largest and richest collections of Roman mosaics, including the famous “Ancient Bikini Girls.” Later, continue your journey to Ragusa. (B,D)
118 mi / 190 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ART & ARCHITECTURE Explore the extraordinary example of Roman power in one of the most luxurious villas of its kind in the Italian countryside. Marvel at the magnificently preserved mosaics that embellish the Villa Romana del Casale, designed and installed by African mosaic workers and the strength of the Roman influence and power throughout the Mediterranean region.
RAGUSA
Spend your day your way in Ragusa.

This morning, join a Local Guide for a walking tour of Ibla, Ragusa’s historic center and admire the Baroque buildings. Visit the 19th century Giardini Iblei, and St. George’s Cathedral. Explore more of Ragusa with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions.

Echoes of Aristocracy
Feel the nostalgic allure of a historic noble residence with a visit to Palazzo Arezzo di Trifiletti. The owner takes you on a personal tour, featuring the palace's elegant furnishings, frescoed ceilings, and marble floors, while sharing fascinating stories of family ancestors and traditions.
Cart Art
Discover one of Sicily's beloved symbols¿the Sicilian carretti (carts)¿an artistic tradition passed down through generations. Visit a workshop in Ragusa Ibla to learn how these donkey-drawn carts developed from work vehicles into vibrant works of art. Hear how this proud Sicilian tradition rolls on!

Enjoy leisure time this evening. (B)
RAGUSA–NOTO–SYRACUSE
World Stages
Enjoy free time in Noto, a town famed for its Baroque architecture. Walk along the Corso Vittorio Emanuele and admire San Nicolò Cathedral. Drive to Syracuse for a guided visit of the Archeological Park featuring the Greek Theater, the Roman Amphitheater, the Ear of Dionysus, and the Cordmakers’ Cave. (B)
56 mi / 90 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ARCHITECTURE & ARCHAEOLOGY Discover the extraordinary evidence of history found at Neapolis Archaeological Park of Siracusa. The stars of this show are the magnificent ancient ruins of the Greek Theatre and remarkable Roman Amphitheatre which are revered as one of the greatest archaeological sites in all of Italy.
SYRACUSE–CATANIA–TAORMINA RIVIERA
Coastal Treasures
Drive to the bustling city of Catania. After an orientation walk, enjoy free time in the main square, Piazza del Duomo, and to browse the stores along Via Etnea. Try some of the delicious local specialties such as arancini and cannoli. Later, drive to the Taormina Riviera for free time this afternoon and evening. (B)
75 mi / 120 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Catania is an ancient port city on Sicily's east coast. It sits at the foot of Mt. Etna, Europe’s tallest volcano. The city's wide central square, Piazza del Duomo, features the whimsical Fontana dell 'Elefante statue and richly decorated St. Agata Cathedral. Nearby, La Pescheria weekday fish market is a rowdy spectacle surrounded by seafood restaurants.
TAORMINA RIVIERA EXCURSION TO SAVOCA
Frozen in Time
This morning visit Savoca, one of the film locations for “The Godfather.” After an orientation walk enjoy a [LF] Granita (semi-frozen drink) and brioche tasting at Bar Vitelli. Later, join an orientation walk in Taormina with a visit to the ancient Greek theatre. Free time to explore the town, stroll along stylish Corso Umberto and enjoy a leisurely lunch. This evening, join your travel companions for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.(B,D)
56 mi / 90 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Not quite the same as sorbet, the Sicilian invention of granita is Sicily’s take on frozen concoctions that varies with the delightful tastes of lemon, mandarin orange, jasmine, almond, mint, coffee, or berries. A frozen blend of Sicilian pistachios is also a tempting way to enjoy this traditional treat.
TAORMINA RIVIERA
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. The nearest airport is Catania. (B)
Dates

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Travellers

Operator
Globus

At Globus, we’re not just hooked on travel as a destination, but on the way travel makes you feel. Our promise is to craft adventures you’ll want to re-live forever. Our story began more than 90 years ago, when a young Swiss Antonio Mantegazza began transporting tourists across Lake Lugano on his rowboat, sharing stories and revealing local secrets along the way. On that lake, Globus was born. Discovering a passion for tourism and a knack for business, Antonio’s services expanded beyond river transport to bus touring, from Switzerland to Europe and then, the world. After 90 years curating travel wonderment, our passion for curating the perfect trip remains. At Globus, we have the experience and local knowledge to craft immersive adventures that make you feel alive. Expect to see all the major sites, but then go deeper, to the beating heart of every new discovery. As they say, when you’re in the moment, it’s not what you know, but who you know, and you’ll quickly discover our Tour Directors know all the local secrets and insider tips. Let us connect you with a new world of people, places and experiences that will ignite your imagination. It's time to tour with Globus.

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