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Depart USA Apr 21, 2026

The Essence of Italy (Spring 2026)

April 22, 2026 - May 6, 2026
11 Days
Starting from $3,840.00 per person
Private 4⭐&5⭐ Hotels
Accommodation
Up to 28 People
Small Group Sizes
Blue and Sunny
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04/22 - 05/06/2026
Dates
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Italy
The Essence of Italy (Spring 2026)
  • 11 Days
  • 4-Star Accommodation
  • Full Service Tours
  • 20 Meals Included
  • Tuscany
  • Florence
  • Rome
  • +3 Days w/Sorrento
  • & More!
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Overview
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Itinerary
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Hotels
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Inclusions
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Before You Go

The Essence of Italy (Spring 2026)


Tour Package Selection:


Paying for how many people:

Dont forget Travel Insurance!
Travel insurance will protect your purchase.
Time Left To Book:
6 Months, 12 Days
03:45:25
  • Small Group Tour- No more than 28 Passengers
  • 11 days (14 with Sorrento) of touring with English-speaking guides
  • 10 nights (13 with Sorrento) of deluxe (4-star) hotel accommodations
  • 20 included meals, without Sorrento (8 dinners, 2 lunches, 10 breakfasts)
  • 24 included meals, with Sorrento (9 dinners, 2 lunches, 13 breakfasts)
  • All entrance fees as specified and included on the itinerary
  • Top quality wine with dinners
  • Porterage at hotels
  • All ground transportation and airport transfers while on the scheduled tour (excludes domestic transfers)

Book as low as $3840*

*Does not include Sorrento post-tour, airfare, or optional trip insurance

*Add $950 for 3 night Sorrento post-tour (a $2500 value if purchased separatley)

Itinerary at a Glance

Day
0
Fly in from the USA and relax from your journey to Europe!
Apr 21, 2026
Day
1
Arrive in Venice, Local Winery 
Apr 22, 2026
  • Arrive at Venice Airport, transfer to your Venetian manor, just outside of Venice.
  • Visit local Prosecco vineyard and winery, enjoy appetizers and sample a variety of local wines.
  • Welcome reception at hotel with full course Venetian dinner with wine.
Day
2
Cruise to Murano, Tour of Venice 
Apr 23, 2026
  • Leisurely breakfast.
  • Cruise on the lagoon of Venice, first stop island of Torcello.
  • Visit the first basilica of the first Venetian community.
  • Board private boat and cruise towards isaldn of Burano.
  • Learn to make Aperol Spritz and Risotto.
  • Enjoy Venetian meal with regional wine.
Day
3
Padua, Bassano del Grappa 
Apr 24, 2026
  • Board private boat and sail to island of Murano.
  • Witness the oldest and most famous glass-blowing factory in the world.
  • Proceed to the heart of Venice, cruise the Grand Canal.
  • Enjoy orientation tour of St. Mark's Square, including iconic landmarks.
  • Free time to explore or take optional gondola ride.
  • Relax and enjoy local dinner at the villa restaurant.
Day
4
Ferrari Museum, Balsamic Vinegar Farm 
Apr 25, 2026
  • Tour the Ferrari museum.
  • Visit local farm well-known for Balsamic vinegar.
  • Visit museum of legendary opera singer Luciano Pavarotti.
  • Special dining experience at the world-renowned Ristorante Europa 92.
Day
5
Tour of Florence, Academia Gallery
 
Apr 26, 2026
  • Travel to Florence, the "Birthplace of the Renaissance".
  • Walking tour with local expert.
  • Visit Cathedral, Town Hall Square, The Old Bridge, the Holy Cross Church.
  • Visit to The Academy of the Fine Arts, see Michelangelo's Statue of David.
  • Free time to shop and explore.
  • Dinner with wine at new hotel Montecatini.
Day
6
Cinque Terre, Dinner in Lucca
 
Apr 27, 2026
  • Drive to Italian Riviera and visit La Spezia.
  • Board ferry boat and cruise to Cinque Terre cliffside villages.
  • Dock in one of the most beautiful Italian Riviera towns, and receive a Pesto cooking class and sample local wines.
  • Board train back to La Spezia.
  • Short time to Lucca to tour local vineyard and enjoy festive Tuscan dinner with wine and music.
Day
7
San Gimignano, Lunch and Wine Tasting
 
Apr 28, 2026
  • Visit medieval town San Gimignano.
  • Shop, explore and take photographs of the Tuscan countryside.
  • Enjoy lunch with local Tuscan wine.
  • Visit Siena, then retire back to hotel.
  • Dinner at your leisure.
Day
8
Leaning Tower of Pisa, Rome
 
Apr 29, 2026
  • Breakfast then depart for Rome.
  • Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa on the way.
  • Arrive in Rome, check into hotel.
  • Enjoy pizza party at nearby Roman restaurant.
Day
9
Vatican City, Colosseum
 
Apr 30, 2026
  • Visit Vatican City with a local historian.
  • Witness great art treasures of the Church, then proceed into the Sistine Chapel and view the masterpiece of Michelangelo.
  • Take guided tour inside Roman Colosseum and visit the Roman Forum.
Day
10
Walking Tour of Rome
 
May 01, 2026
  • Enjoy an espresso before for a late morning tour of the old Roman Jewish Ghetto in Rome.
  • Your tour will start at the Teatro di Marcello and take us through the region's honored family restaurants.
  • Enjoy local fare such as Roman artichokes, bruschetta, and other classic appetizers along with Roman wines.
  • Free time at your leisure.
Day
11
The Essence of Italy Tour Ends, Sorrento Tour Begins
 
May 02, 2026

For those ending Essence of Italy tour:

  • Transfer to the Rome Airport for return flights home.

For those continuing to Sorrento:

  • After checking out of our hotel, travel to Pompeii and explore the ancient city frozen in time after the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD.
  • Enjoy a unique lunch and wine tasting on the slopes of Vesuvius, savoring the renowned Lacryma Christi wines.
  • Arrive in Sorrento, check into your villa hotel, and relax.
Day
12
Amalfi Coast 
May 03, 2026
  • Leisurely breakfast then embark on an excursion to the Amalfi Coast
  • Visit Positano, free time to shop and explore this stunning seaside town.
  • Take some time to relax on the beautiful beach before returning to Villa Giovanna.
  • Culinary experience with Riccardo at his villa, learn to prepare ravioli, eggplant parmigiana, and a surprise dish.
  • Enjoy your delicious food, and enjoy some local wine.
Day
13
Excursion to the Isle of Capri 
May 04, 2026
Day
14
Return Home
 
May 05, 2026
  • Travel from Sorrento to Naples airport for travel home.

What's it like

Experience Italy like never before! Start in Venice, then explore Florence, Tuscany, and Rome, including the Vatican and Colosseum. Finally, visit Sorrento, Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri. Experience Italy like never before! Start in Venice, then explore Florence, Tuscany, and Rome, including the Vatican and Colosseum. Finally, visit Sorrento, Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri. Experience Italy like never before! Start in Venice, then explore Florence, Tuscany, and Rome, including the Vatican and Colosseum. Finally, visit Sorrento, Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and Capri.
Why Travel with us
Your Safety is Our Priority
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Expert Guides
Sustainable Tourism
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Local Food
Small Groups
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4⭐ & 5⭐ Accommodations

Tour Itinerary

Day
0
Fly in from the USA and relax from your journey to Europe!
Apr 21, 2026
Day
1
Arrive in Venice, Local Winery 
Apr 22, 2026

Highlight of the day:Visit local Prosecco vineyard and winery, enjoy appetizers and sample a variety of local wines

Upon arrival at the Venice Airport, you’ll be met by your tour director for a transfer to your Venetian manor where you will be staying just outside of Venice. Take some time to settle in and rest up before enjoying a visit to a local Prosecco vineyard and winery. You'll enjoy appetizers and sample a variety of local wines during the tasting. Then, join us for a welcome reception at the hotel before experiencing a delicious, full-course Venetian dinner in the hotel restaurant with plenty of wine to culminate your very busy day. Rest up for another big day tomorrow.

Dinner

Villa Condulmer
Day
2
Cruise to Murano, Tour of Venice 
Apr 23, 2026

This morning, travel by bus to Padua. Visit the cathedral of St. Anthony and spend some time in the shops, markets, and bistros of this lovely town. There will be a special scheduled visit to the Scrovegni Chapel, covered with exquisite frescoes by the famed Italian artist, Gioto. The Chapel was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001. Afterward, take a short drive to Bassano del Grappa, a beautiful little town famous for its beauty...and the famous Italian Grappa. Have a taste of the wide variety of grappas. Try the lemon grappa, it may be your favorite. Take some time to stroll around this quaint little town highlighted by its iconic covered bridge. Dinner tonight will be back in the hotel.

Breakfast, Dinner

Villa Condulmer
Day
3
Padua, Bassano del Grappa 
Apr 24, 2026

This morning, you'll have the opportunity to board a private boat and sail to the island of Murano, where you'll visit one of the oldest and most famous glass-blowing factories in the world. Witness the incredible craftsmanship of the artisans, whose skills have been passed down for hundreds of years. After that, you'll proceed to the heart of Venice and cruise along the famous Grand Canal, which is lined with beautiful palazzi. Enjoy an orientation tour of St. Mark’s Square, which includes iconic landmarks such as the Doge’s Palace, St. Mark’s Basilica & Tower, the Bridge of Sighs, and the Rialto Bridge. Take some free time to explore Venice or take an optional gondola ride through the Venetian canals. Tonight, you can relax in the beautiful restaurant of our villa and enjoy local specialties.

Breakfast, Dinner

Villa Condulmer
Day
4
Ferrari Museum, Balsamic Vinegar Farm 
Apr 25, 2026

Our day will begin with an exciting tour of the Ferrari museum. Afterward, we will visit a local farm that is well- known for producing Balsamic vinegar. You will have the opportunity to witness a fascinating demonstration of how it is made and taste the unique flavor of the best Balsamic vinegar you have ever had. Modena is also famous for being the home of the legendary opera singer Luciano Pavarotti, and there is a museum in his honor that we will visit. Our special dining experience tonight will take place at the world-renowned Ristorante Europa 92, located next door to the Museo Casa Pavarotti. Pavarotti was a regular at this restaurant, and it became affectionately known as Ristorante Pavarotti.

Breakfast, Lunch

Milano Palace
Day
5
Tour of Florence, Academia Gallery
 
Apr 26, 2026

Today, you will travel to Florence, the capital of Tuscany and the "Birthplace of the Renaissance". During the trip, a local expert will guide you on a sensational walking tour through the area, renowned for its art and museums. You will visit the Cathedral, Town Hall Square, The Old Bridge, the Holy Cross Church and the tombs of Michelangelo, Galileo, Joaquin Rossini, and Nicholas Machiavelli. The tour will be highlighted with a visit to The Academy of the Fine Arts, where you will see Michelangelo's Statue of David. You will also enjoy a demonstration at a local leather factory. After the tour, you will have some free time to shop and explore. Later, you will head to Montecatini for hotel check-in. Tonight's dinner will be in the hotel restaurant, with plenty of good wine.

Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel Settentrionale
Day
6
Cinque Terre, Dinner in Lucca
 
Apr 27, 2026

This morning, we will take a short drive to the stunning Italian Riviera and visit La Spezia. In La Spezia, we will board a ferry boat and cruise to one of the beautiful Cinque Terre cliffside villages. This unique tourist destination boasts incredible landscapes of brightly-colored buildings with gorgeous terraces built on rugged, steep cliffs that overlook the Ligurian Sea. While the landscapes are a major draw for this area, the food of this region is equally impressive and will keep us coming back. While in Cinque Terre, we will take a boat and dock in one of the most beautiful Italian Riviera towns, where we will receive a cooking class lesson to learn how to make the legendary Italian pesto sauce. As we enjoy the fruits of our demonstration, we will also sample distinct, local wines and other delicacies from this region. We will have plenty of time to shop and explore and take a leisurely stroll along the pristine shores of the Mediterranean. We will then board a classic train back to La Spezia while taking in breathtaking views of the seascape. Back at the hotel, we can freshen up before taking a short trip to Lucca. Here, we will take a brief, but interesting tour of a local vineyard and then enjoy a festive Tuscan dinner with wine and music.

Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel Settentrionale
Day
7
San Gimignano, Lunch and Wine Tasting
 
Apr 28, 2026

Today is our last full day in Tuscany and we have saved the best for last! We will be visiting San Gimignano, a beautifully preserved medieval town known for its tall towers. It is also known as the Town of Fine Towers. There will be plenty of opportunities to shop and explore in this gorgeous town, as well as countless vantage points to take stunning photographs of the Tuscan countryside. After exploring the town, we will enjoy a delicious lunch accompanied by some excellent Tuscan wine at a famous winery located just outside the town. Later in the day, we will visit Siena before retiring back to the Montecatini hotel. Dinner will be at your leisure.

Breakfast, Lunch

Hotel Settentrionale
Day
8
Leaning Tower of Pisa, Rome
 
Apr 29, 2026

After having breakfast and checking out of the hotel, we will depart for Rome. However, before leaving, we will visit one of the most iconic structures in Italy, the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Our tour director will lead the group to Miracle Square, where we can admire the tower and take dozens of corny photos of friends holding it up to prevent it from collapsing. Pisa is located along the Aurelian Way, an ancient trade route that leads to Rome, where we will check into our hotel and comfortably settle in. Later, we will enjoy a pizza party at a nearby Roman restaurant.

Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel Quirinale
Day
9
Vatican City, Colosseum
 
Apr 30, 2026

In the morning, a local historian will take you to Vatican City, which is the smallest independent state in the world. Firstly, you will visit the Vatican Museums to witness some of the great art treasures of the Church. Then, you will proceed into the Sistine Chapel and gaze in awe at the most famous and painstaking masterpiece of Michelangelo. After that, you will enter the majestic St. Peter's Basilica, where you can admire another masterpiece of Michelangelo, the Pieta on your right. In the afternoon, you will take a guided tour inside the Roman Colosseum and visit the Roman Forum.

Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel Quirinale
Day
10
Walking Tour of Rome
 
May 01, 2026

Take your time in the morning with a lovely espresso or cappuccino in preparation for a late morning tour of the old Roman Jewish Ghetto in Rome. The Ghetto was established in 1555 in the Rione Sant'Angelo, near the Tiber River in the southern part of Campo de'Fiori. Your tour will start at the Teatro di Marcello an ancient open-air theatre in Rome, Italy, built in the last years of the Roman Republic as well as one of the seven hills, Capitoline Hill, one of the few ancient ground-level ruins that surround a piazza, an urban plan designed by Michelangelo. Our expert guide will take us through the region's honored family restaurants and trattorie (Italian-style eating establishments generally less formal than restaurants) and will be served favorite local fare such as Roman artichokes, bruschetta, and other classic appetizers along with plenty of distinctly Roman wines. Your afternoon is free for exploring, resting or sitting in a local café to watch Roman life pass you by.

Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel Quirinale
Day
11
The Essence of Italy Tour Ends, Sorrento Tour Begins
 
May 02, 2026

For those ending Essence of Italy tour: Today marks the end of the Best of Italy tour for some of the guests. Those departing this day will be transferred to the Rome Airport for their return flights home. Thank you for traveling with Wherever Tours. We hope you had a wonderful time in Italy, and please keep us in mind for your future travel plans.

For those continuing to Sorrento: After checking out of our hotel in Rome, we will board a motorcoach to Sorrento. During the journey, we will make a stop at Pompeii, an archaeological site that was entirely covered in ash by the catastrophic eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 AD. Our private expert will guide us through this incredible city that has been frozen in time for almost two millennia. We will then take a short drive to the slopes of Vesuvius for a unique lunch and wine-tasting experience. Here, we will have the opportunity to savor the famous Lacryma Christi (Tears of Christ) wines, which are produced only on this fertile volcanic soil. Later, we will arrive at our villa hotel in Sorrento for check-in.

Breakfast, Lunch (for those continuing to Sorrento)

Villa Giovanna
Day
12
Amalfi Coast 
May 03, 2026

After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, you can embark on an excursion to the Amalfi Coast, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to have your cameras ready for the breathtaking view of Positano, where you will have free time to shop and explore this stunning seaside town that has been featured in many famous movies and magazines. Take some time to relax on the beautiful beach before returning to Villa Giovanna. In the afternoon, get ready for your culinary experience with Riccardo at his villa, where you will learn to prepare ravioli, eggplant parmigiana, and a surprise dish. Afterward, you can unwind, eat your delicious food, and enjoy some local wine.

Breakfast

Villa Giovanna
Day
13
Excursion to the Isle of Capri 
May 04, 2026

Today, you will be transferred to the famous and beautiful island of Capri by boat. A representative from Wherever Tours will be available at the hotel to offer suggestions prior to your transfer so that you can make the most out of your day. This tiny island, which was once the playground of ancient emperors, will leave you breathless due to its limitless charm and historical sights. Take some time to shop and explore, and most of all, enjoy the spectacular views from above. Upon your return, you can take some time to wander the streets of Sorrento before retiring back to the hotel for the farewell dinner and live music, along with a lot of wine.

Breakfast, Dinner

Villa Giovanna
Day
14
Return Home
 
May 05, 2026

Highlight of the day:Travel from Sorrento to Naples airport for travel home

It's time to bid farewell to Sorrento and conclude our amazing adventure through Italy. After having breakfast, we will provide you with a transfer to Naples airport for further travel. We would like to express our gratitude for choosing Wherever Tours as your travel partner. We sincerely hope that you had a memorable time in Italy. Please consider us for your future travel plans.

Breakfast

Villa Condulmer*

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star Accommodation

Villa Condulmer is a luxurious 5-star hotel and fine dining destination, offering an exceptional experience. Located beside its private 18-hole golf course, Villa Condulmer is set amidst a green park with a swimming pool.

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Milano Palace*

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star Accommodation

Hotel Milano Palace stands out for the elegance and attention to detail of the spaces, the features of the rooms and the quality of services offered. The hotel rooms feature air conditioning, free Wi-fi, a minibar, a tub with chromotherapy, satellite and digital TV with a vast range of national and international channels.

View Hotel Website
Hotel Settentrionale *

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star Accommodation

Hotel Settentrionale Esplanade offers all the comforts for the best of stays in Montecatini Terme.Swimming pool and garden, summer terrace in the shade of wisteria, renowned restaurant, free bicycles, family rooms, and many other services to enjoy your holiday with absolute peace of mind.

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Hotel Quirinale *

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star Accommodation

The elegance and charm is befitting a hotel surrounded by the Piazza della Repubblica, Piazza Venezia and the Trevi Fountain. Each of the rooms are decorated with period furniture and equipped with every modern luxury. Guests can enjoy the elegant restaurant, cosy bar, private garden, exclusive fitness facilities.

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Villa Giovanna *

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Star Accommodation

Villa Giovanna is set outside the city centre of Sorrento. It offers free Wi-Fi in the lobby, free parking, and a small outdoor swimming pool. All rooms are en suite and include air conditioning, satellite TV, and a minibar. Some have a spa bath, and some offer a balcony.

View Hotel Website

* Or similar or better hotel

What is Included?

  • All ground transportation and airport transfers while on the scheduled tour (excludes domestic transfers)
  • 11 nights of hotel accommodations
  • Porterage at the hotels
  • 11 days of touring with English speaking guides
  • All entrance fees as specified and included on the itinerary
  • Many included meals (Breakfasts, Lunches, & Dinners)
  • Atleast One glass of wine with dinners
  • Estimated round trip group airfare (if selected)
    * additional purchase required

What is Not Included?

  • Increases in adjusted airfare prior to ticketing
  • Visas, passports, airport taxes, border taxes, etc.
  • Gratuities for guides and drivers
  • Beverages other than specified
  • Meals other than included dinners and breakfasts
  • Optional trip cancellation insurance
  • Optional tours or activities not included on itinerary
  • All expenses of a personal nature
  • Any immunizations and testing that may be required
  • Domestic transfers in the USA

At Wherever Tours, we aim to make your European adventure as enjoyable and effortless as possible. This section provides answers to commonly asked questions about traveling with us. Please read this information carefully—it will help you prepare for your trip with confidence.

Is it for me?

Wherever Tours European trips are designed for travelers who appreciate the finer things in life. Guests will enjoy stays at 4 and 5-star accommodations, dine on carefully curated meals, and travel comfortably in chartered buses. With no strenuous hikes or rugged terrain, these tours are perfect for those seeking a leisurely and elegant travel experience.

Pre-Departure Briefing

A pre-departure briefing will be held via video call or in person (based on your preference) before your trip begins. This session typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes and provides important details about your itinerary, accommodations, and what to expect during your tour with Wherever Tours. If you are unable to attend, please contact us to reschedule.

Final Payment

Any remaining balance for your Wherever Tours trip must be settled at least 30 days before departure. We accept payments via credit/debit card, bank transfer, or online payment platforms. For your convenience, no additional service charges will be applied. If you have any concerns about your payment, please contact our team.

Luggage and Packing

We recommend packing light, as all your luggage will travel with you in the chartered bus. Each guest is allowed one large suitcase and one carry-on. Essentials such as comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, and any required medications are highly recommended. For a detailed packing list, please refer to the pre-departure guide provided by Wherever Tours after booking.

Can I store my luggage?

Yes! If you plan to extend your travels in Europe or need to store extra luggage during the tour, Wherever Tours can assist with storage options through our partner hotels or secure facilities. Please coordinate this with us in advance.

Pick-up and Drop-off

All Wherever Tours trips include pick-up and drop-off services at major city centers or designated hotels. Specific pick-up times and locations will be confirmed prior to your tour. Please ensure your accommodation is accessible for our chartered buses to avoid delays.

Group Tours

Our group tours attract travelers from diverse backgrounds, so expect varying interests and paces. While the itinerary is designed for maximum enjoyment by all, small adjustments may be made by the guide based on group preferences and feedback. Wherever Tours strives to ensure every traveler has a wonderful experience.

Lost or Forgotten Items

Please double-check your belongings when boarding and exiting our transport or accommodations. Wherever Tours is not responsible for lost items, but we will do our best to assist in recovering them if possible.

About Booking This Tour

Deposit & Booking Information

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking. Your deposit is $500.

Terms and Conditions:

For additional information pertaining to our Wherever Tours including Cancellation Information and Booking Conditions, click here to learn more.

If You Have To Cancel

If you need to cancel your trip, please contact our team with your reservation number. Cancellation penalties vary depending on how early you cancel, and the sooner you notify us, the more you may be eligible to receive in refunds. Reach out to learn more about the specific terms for your booking.

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