Italian Indulgence

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Rome


Venice

Tour summary

13 days

Italy

18 meals

18 guests (max)

Driver

Trip leader

Luxury minicoach

Twin-share / double / double for single occupancy

12 nights in thoughtfully selected accommodation

12 nights

Have you ever met a white peacock, or found a truffle deep beneath the ground? This indulgent Italian adventure reveals a new discovery with every twist and turn. Ignite your imagination as blissful lakes invite you to linger, a sea of vines presents a silky Chianti wine, and terracotta towns dance with Renaissance tales. It's time to slow down and soak it all up – the journey won’t last forever, but the memories certainly will. 

Tour highlights

  • Learn to whip up a delicious Tuscan meal in a traditional countryside villa
  • Join a truffle hunt with a local trifolau and their trusty dog in the sun-kissed hills of Alba
  • Bask in the wonders of Lake Maggiore on a boat tour of the whimsical Borromean Islands
  • Soak up the exquisite scenery and opulent atmosphere of Lake Como

Tour itinerary

Day 1 - Rome (Italy)

Benvenuti a Roma! And welcome to an Italian indulgence in every sense – these next twelve days are going to be a feast for the eyes, the stomach and the soul! We’ll start by meeting the small group we're sharing the journey with, before settling in for our first taste of traditional cucina italiana (or Italian cuisine). No one’s counting how many biscotti you eat, we promise.

Benvenuti a Roma! And welcome to an Italian indulgence in every sense – these next twelve days are going to be a feast for the eyes, the stomach and the soul! We’ll start by meeting the small group we're sharing the journey with, before settling in for our first taste of traditional cucina italiana (or Italian cuisine). No one’s counting how many biscotti you eat, we promise.

Included today

Accommodation

The Guardian Hotel (or similar)

Meals
  • Dinner

Day 2 - Rome – Assisi – Perugia

Did you know that Italian breakfasts are typically light and sweet? The perfect energy boost to begin our first full day together! Once we’ve dusted off the crumbs of our croissants, we’ll get comfy in the minicoach and make our way to the honey-coloured hilltop town of Assisi, famed for being the birthplace of St Francis. Glowing with a gentle warm light, this is a place where time slows down and the spirit of the past lingers in the air.  

Our expert Tour Leader will walk us past the sights – including the magnificent basilica – before we have free time for lunch. A torta al testo might just hit the spot: a traditional griddled flatbread filled with cold cuts, cheese or roasted veggies. 

Why not end the day with a kiss (of the chocolate kind)? We’ll finish off the afternoon in medieval Perugia, where Baci Perugina – decadent hazelnut chocolate ‘kisses’ – were created. Here, our carefully chosen hotel is perfectly located for dining out. Options, options...

Did you know that Italian breakfasts are typically light and sweet? The perfect energy boost to begin our first full day together! Once we’ve dusted off the crumbs of our croissants, we’ll get comfy in the minicoach and make our way to the honey-coloured hilltop town of Assisi, famed for being the birthplace of St Francis. Glowing with a gentle warm light, this is a place where time slows down and the spirit of the past lingers in the air.  

Our expert Tour Leader will walk us past the sights – including the magnificent basilica – before we have free time for lunch. A torta al testo might just hit the spot: a traditional griddled flatbread filled with cold cuts, cheese or roasted veggies. 

Why not end the day with a kiss (of the chocolate kind)? We’ll finish off the afternoon in medieval Perugia, where Baci Perugina – decadent hazelnut chocolate ‘kisses’ – were created. Here, our carefully chosen hotel is perfectly located for dining out. Options, options...

Included today

Accommodation

Hotel Fortuna (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 3 - Perugia – Siena – Rural Tuscany

Prepare to step back in time today as our path takes us towards Siena: a grand Gothic city bursting with fabulous architecture. Like a perfectly preserved medieval relic, its narrow, winding streets each lead to somewhere unique – a secret courtyard illuminated by a shaft of sunlight, or an elegant palace whispering tales of times gone by. Once we’ve explored its treasures together, we’ll have free time to discover its foodie delights for lunch; some ricciarelli might be in keeping with the historic atmosphere – these chewy, macaroon-style almond biscuits have been enjoyed by the Sienese since the 14th century! 

Bags packed with biscuits, next we’ll wind our way through the Chianti region, where meticulously tended vines change colour like chameleons with every season, and the scent of sun-baked earth carries through the breeze. Set in a traditional countryside villa, our refined-yet-rustic Tuscan hotel will become our home for the next two nights – and this evening, we’ll dig into some local favourites during our dinner as a group.

Prepare to step back in time today as our path takes us towards Siena: a grand Gothic city bursting with fabulous architecture. Like a perfectly preserved medieval relic, its narrow, winding streets each lead to somewhere unique – a secret courtyard illuminated by a shaft of sunlight, or an elegant palace whispering tales of times gone by. Once we’ve explored its treasures together, we’ll have free time to discover its foodie delights for lunch; some ricciarelli might be in keeping with the historic atmosphere – these chewy, macaroon-style almond biscuits have been enjoyed by the Sienese since the 14th century! 

Bags packed with biscuits, next we’ll wind our way through the Chianti region, where meticulously tended vines change colour like chameleons with every season, and the scent of sun-baked earth carries through the breeze. Set in a traditional countryside villa, our refined-yet-rustic Tuscan hotel will become our home for the next two nights – and this evening, we’ll dig into some local favourites during our dinner as a group.

Included today

Accommodation

Villa Pitiana (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Day 4 - Rural Tuscany

Shh... today our hosts are going to spill culinary secrets kept under wraps for generations. Well, some of them anyway! It’s time to roll up our sleeves and get stuck into a masterclass led by a friendly local chef. Andiamo

Perhaps a pappa al pomodoro bread-and-basil filled tomato soup or a classic tagliatelle will be on the menu? Whichever seasonal speciality we’ll be rustling up, you’ll want to make notes for when you host back home! We’ll finish off by sampling our (naturally delicious) handiwork for lunch – there's truly no better way to get a taste for Tuscan culture than this. 

Later on, take a moment to slow down and soak up the beauty of your surroundings. If you fancy a walk, there are plenty of ancient paths to follow amid the softly flowing hills. And a dip in the outdoor pool is the perfect way to end a traditional Tuscan day.

Shh... today our hosts are going to spill culinary secrets kept under wraps for generations. Well, some of them anyway! It’s time to roll up our sleeves and get stuck into a masterclass led by a friendly local chef. Andiamo

Perhaps a pappa al pomodoro bread-and-basil filled tomato soup or a classic tagliatelle will be on the menu? Whichever seasonal speciality we’ll be rustling up, you’ll want to make notes for when you host back home! We’ll finish off by sampling our (naturally delicious) handiwork for lunch – there's truly no better way to get a taste for Tuscan culture than this. 

Later on, take a moment to slow down and soak up the beauty of your surroundings. If you fancy a walk, there are plenty of ancient paths to follow amid the softly flowing hills. And a dip in the outdoor pool is the perfect way to end a traditional Tuscan day.

Included today

Accommodation

Villa Pitiana (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Day 5 - Rural Tuscany – Florence – Lucca

Wave ciao to sun-kissed vineyards and olive groves; this morning we’re making our way to Florence, the home of David (specifically Michelangelo’s masterpiece, but plenty of other Davids too!). Here Renaissance art sings from every corner, and history isn’t confined to dusty books, but lives and breathes in the very stone of the city. We’ll uncover its secrets on a walking tour with a local guide – strolling past the likes of the Duomo, a feat of engineering still awe-inspiring 700 years later, and the wonderful Ponte Vecchio medieval bridge.  

Soaking up all this culture is hungry work, so we’ll have free time to enjoy lunch before we leave – the perfect excuse for a crispy, thin-based pizza or a crusty prosciutto roll. 

Next, from David’s home to Puccini’s! Our luxury minicoach will lead us to the lovely walled city of Lucca, the birthplace of one of Italy’s greatest composers, where melodies still seem to ring. Here, your evening is free for exploring – why not settle in for a concert at the Church of San Giovanni and Santa Reparata, where a different opera programme is performed every night.

Wave ciao to sun-kissed vineyards and olive groves; this morning we’re making our way to Florence, the home of David (specifically Michelangelo’s masterpiece, but plenty of other Davids too!). Here Renaissance art sings from every corner, and history isn’t confined to dusty books, but lives and breathes in the very stone of the city. We’ll uncover its secrets on a walking tour with a local guide – strolling past the likes of the Duomo, a feat of engineering still awe-inspiring 700 years later, and the wonderful Ponte Vecchio medieval bridge.  

Soaking up all this culture is hungry work, so we’ll have free time to enjoy lunch before we leave – the perfect excuse for a crispy, thin-based pizza or a crusty prosciutto roll. 

Next, from David’s home to Puccini’s! Our luxury minicoach will lead us to the lovely walled city of Lucca, the birthplace of one of Italy’s greatest composers, where melodies still seem to ring. Here, your evening is free for exploring – why not settle in for a concert at the Church of San Giovanni and Santa Reparata, where a different opera programme is performed every night.

Included today

Accommodation

Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 6 - Lucca – Pisa – Lucca

Will it be pistachio or hazelnut cream on your pastries this morning? Either way, Italians know how to start the morning right! Today there’s another treat in store as we pay a visit to the Campo dei Miracoli, where the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa awaits. 

Afterwards, we’ll gather inside the Baptistery of Saint John for a unique acoustic experience. Notes sung here last so long it’s possible to accompany yourself, and the Baptistery Guards will demonstrate the serene reverberating effect. 

We’ll return to Lucca this afternoon, where Tuscan charm meets a slower pace of life, and simple pleasures are fully embraced – meaning good food, good wine and good company! There are plenty of options for dinner within walking distance of our thoughtfully selected hotel, set within the historic city walls. Your Tour Leader is sure to have a recommendation (or five!) up their sleeve

Will it be pistachio or hazelnut cream on your pastries this morning? Either way, Italians know how to start the morning right! Today there’s another treat in store as we pay a visit to the Campo dei Miracoli, where the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa awaits. 

Afterwards, we’ll gather inside the Baptistery of Saint John for a unique acoustic experience. Notes sung here last so long it’s possible to accompany yourself, and the Baptistery Guards will demonstrate the serene reverberating effect. 

We’ll return to Lucca this afternoon, where Tuscan charm meets a slower pace of life, and simple pleasures are fully embraced – meaning good food, good wine and good company! There are plenty of options for dinner within walking distance of our thoughtfully selected hotel, set within the historic city walls. Your Tour Leader is sure to have a recommendation (or five!) up their sleeve

Included today

Accommodation

Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 7 - Lucca – Camogli and Portofino – Ligurian Riviera

Sometimes the back roads reveal a land of contrasts, and the spectacular Italian Riviera is certainly that. From dramatic cliffs to hidden coves, vibrant coastal towns and rugged mountains – there's something to capture everyone’s imagination today.  

Once we’ve finished off the foam of our cappuccinos, we’ll make our way to the delightful fishing village of Camogli. Timeless and utterly present, it’s a snapshot of Ligurian life that has played out for centuries. Here we’ll have free time to find some creamy stracchino cheese-stuffed focaccia di Recco for lunch – best enjoyed along the beach watching the fishing boats bob gently in the dock. 

Stomach satisfied, the glitz and glamour of Portofino is up next – where sleek superyachts fill the harbour and designer boutiques line snug streets. There’s time to explore its cheerful hidden courtyards, overflowing with flowers, or practise your Italian in a local trattoria before we make the journey to our hotel in Rapallo for the night. Housed in an elegant villa a few steps from the seafront and a tiny 16th-century castle, it’s the ideal setting to end our day. Bellissimo!

Sometimes the back roads reveal a land of contrasts, and the spectacular Italian Riviera is certainly that. From dramatic cliffs to hidden coves, vibrant coastal towns and rugged mountains – there's something to capture everyone’s imagination today.  

Once we’ve finished off the foam of our cappuccinos, we’ll make our way to the delightful fishing village of Camogli. Timeless and utterly present, it’s a snapshot of Ligurian life that has played out for centuries. Here we’ll have free time to find some creamy stracchino cheese-stuffed focaccia di Recco for lunch – best enjoyed along the beach watching the fishing boats bob gently in the dock. 

Stomach satisfied, the glitz and glamour of Portofino is up next – where sleek superyachts fill the harbour and designer boutiques line snug streets. There’s time to explore its cheerful hidden courtyards, overflowing with flowers, or practise your Italian in a local trattoria before we make the journey to our hotel in Rapallo for the night. Housed in an elegant villa a few steps from the seafront and a tiny 16th-century castle, it’s the ideal setting to end our day. Bellissimo!

Included today

Accommodation

Europa Hotel Design Spa 1877 (or similar) 

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 8 - Ligurian Riviera – Barolo – Asti – Langhe Region

We’ve got wine on our mind this morning – with these kind of views, it would be hard not to! Watch as vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see as we venture through the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Piedmont region, where the scent of ripening grapes hangs heavy in the air. 

After a stop a beautiful Barolo, we’ll get into the spirit (we couldn’t resist) with a local grappa tasting experience at a family run winery in the Asti wine region. Made by distilling the bits of grape that are left over from pressing wine (like the skin, seeds and stems), this is a mini adventure for the palate. You can expect a bit of a kick (thanks to the high alcohol content) and an intense aroma – ranging from fruity and floral to herby or spicy. 

The Langhe region is our home for this evening; a land where feasting is ingrained in the culture. From creamy risottos infused with truffles, to hearty stews simmered with Barolo wine, and delicate handmade pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables – each meal is a celebration of local ingredients and time-honoured traditions. And tonight’s group dinner will be just that! 

We’ve got wine on our mind this morning – with these kind of views, it would be hard not to! Watch as vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see as we venture through the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Piedmont region, where the scent of ripening grapes hangs heavy in the air. 

After a stop a beautiful Barolo, we’ll get into the spirit (we couldn’t resist) with a local grappa tasting experience at a family run winery in the Asti wine region. Made by distilling the bits of grape that are left over from pressing wine (like the skin, seeds and stems), this is a mini adventure for the palate. You can expect a bit of a kick (thanks to the high alcohol content) and an intense aroma – ranging from fruity and floral to herby or spicy. 

The Langhe region is our home for this evening; a land where feasting is ingrained in the culture. From creamy risottos infused with truffles, to hearty stews simmered with Barolo wine, and delicate handmade pasta tossed with seasonal vegetables – each meal is a celebration of local ingredients and time-honoured traditions. And tonight’s group dinner will be just that! 

Included today

Accommodation

Hotel Santa Vittoria (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Day 9 - Langhe Region – Alba – Lake Orta – Lake Maggiore

Curly fur, eager eyes, a twitching nose... shake paws with today’s local guide – a truffle-hunting dog! This morning we’ll head out into the forests of Alba to join a truffle hunt with a trifolau and their trusty pooch; a tradition as old as the hills themselves. Practically vibrating with excitement, once unleashed our clever canine friend will be off – zigzagging through the undergrowth, sniffing out the precious fungi hidden beneath the soil. Trained since they were pups, no truffle can escape! If you’re joining us in the autumn, you might even uncover an elusive white truffle hiding deeper under the earth... 

Once we’ve sampled the fruits of our labour, we’ll thank our hosts (perhaps with a doggy treat or two) before making our way to captivating Lake Orta: a tranquil retreat sitting pretty at the bottom of the imposing Monte Mottarone. With an intimate charm and a quiet elegance, Orta invites you to linger and lose yourself in its calm beauty. Then, from one blissful Italian lake to another! Lake Maggiore will be our final stop on today’s scenic journey – take it all in as the sun sinks slowly behind the ripples and another idyllic day comes to a close.

Curly fur, eager eyes, a twitching nose... shake paws with today’s local guide – a truffle-hunting dog! This morning we’ll head out into the forests of Alba to join a truffle hunt with a trifolau and their trusty pooch; a tradition as old as the hills themselves. Practically vibrating with excitement, once unleashed our clever canine friend will be off – zigzagging through the undergrowth, sniffing out the precious fungi hidden beneath the soil. Trained since they were pups, no truffle can escape! If you’re joining us in the autumn, you might even uncover an elusive white truffle hiding deeper under the earth... 

Once we’ve sampled the fruits of our labour, we’ll thank our hosts (perhaps with a doggy treat or two) before making our way to captivating Lake Orta: a tranquil retreat sitting pretty at the bottom of the imposing Monte Mottarone. With an intimate charm and a quiet elegance, Orta invites you to linger and lose yourself in its calm beauty. Then, from one blissful Italian lake to another! Lake Maggiore will be our final stop on today’s scenic journey – take it all in as the sun sinks slowly behind the ripples and another idyllic day comes to a close.

Included today

Accommodation

Grand Hotel Majestic (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 10 - Lake Maggiore

It’s time to take to the water! Today we’re setting sail for the enchanting Borromean Islands, a collection of teeny-but-mightily-beautiful islands nestled in the western corner of Lake Maggiore. As we glide across the lake, keep an eye out for the picturesque villages dotting the shoreline and the snow-capped Alps in the distance. 

We’ll arrive at Isola Madre earlier than most, stepping into a botanist’s dream brimming with exotic plants from every corner of the planet – the air thick with the scent of blossoms and earth. From one whimsical world to another, next we’ll explore Isola Bella’s opulent palace with a local guide, giving us a chance to discover all the inside stories. You’ll even get to meet the island’s ethereal white peacocks as they strut proudly through the grounds (rightly so!).  

Finally, the Isola dei Pescatori tops off our trio of treasures, where houses were made for the workers that built Bella’s palace. We’ll admire its pretty harbour and enjoy a light lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the mainland for the evening. History, horticulture and carefully paced island hopping – what could be better!

It’s time to take to the water! Today we’re setting sail for the enchanting Borromean Islands, a collection of teeny-but-mightily-beautiful islands nestled in the western corner of Lake Maggiore. As we glide across the lake, keep an eye out for the picturesque villages dotting the shoreline and the snow-capped Alps in the distance. 

We’ll arrive at Isola Madre earlier than most, stepping into a botanist’s dream brimming with exotic plants from every corner of the planet – the air thick with the scent of blossoms and earth. From one whimsical world to another, next we’ll explore Isola Bella’s opulent palace with a local guide, giving us a chance to discover all the inside stories. You’ll even get to meet the island’s ethereal white peacocks as they strut proudly through the grounds (rightly so!).  

Finally, the Isola dei Pescatori tops off our trio of treasures, where houses were made for the workers that built Bella’s palace. We’ll admire its pretty harbour and enjoy a light lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the mainland for the evening. History, horticulture and carefully paced island hopping – what could be better!

Included today

Accommodation

Grand Hotel Majestic (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch

Day 11 - Lake Maggiore – Lake Como – Sondrio

Bid a fond farewell to glittering Lake Maggiore; this morning our path takes us towards the fairytale shores of Lake Como. Watch as winding roads hug the coastline, revealing glimpses of terracotta villages and lavish villas nestled amongst lush gardens – a peek into the world of the rich and famous. You may hear George Clooney’s name whispered within the minicoach once or twice... 

As your Italian adventure is distinct from any other, today your Tour Leader will choose their favourite lakeside spot to stop for lunch. And then? We think another tasting is in order! We’ll call in at a Valtellina winery to wet our whistles, sampling a collection of silky reds and dry whites from the region. Cin cin

Later we’ll take the scenic route to Sondrio, where our centrally located hotel offers plenty of nearby restaurants for dining out. You might want to hunt down some sciatt crispy buckwheat fritters filled with stringy casera cheese (‘sciat’ means ‘toad’ which they’re said to resemble – only in appearance, of course!).

Bid a fond farewell to glittering Lake Maggiore; this morning our path takes us towards the fairytale shores of Lake Como. Watch as winding roads hug the coastline, revealing glimpses of terracotta villages and lavish villas nestled amongst lush gardens – a peek into the world of the rich and famous. You may hear George Clooney’s name whispered within the minicoach once or twice... 

As your Italian adventure is distinct from any other, today your Tour Leader will choose their favourite lakeside spot to stop for lunch. And then? We think another tasting is in order! We’ll call in at a Valtellina winery to wet our whistles, sampling a collection of silky reds and dry whites from the region. Cin cin

Later we’ll take the scenic route to Sondrio, where our centrally located hotel offers plenty of nearby restaurants for dining out. You might want to hunt down some sciatt crispy buckwheat fritters filled with stringy casera cheese (‘sciat’ means ‘toad’ which they’re said to resemble – only in appearance, of course!).

Included today

Accommodation

Grand Hotel della Posta (or similar)

Meals
  • Breakfast

Day 12 - Sondrio – Lake Molveno – Trento

The crisp mountain air on your skin, the scent of pine and wildflowers filling your lungs, a swathe of iridescent blue stretching out before you... You have indeed woken up! This morning’s setting is spectacular Lake Molveno, nestled at the foot of the jagged and dramatic Brenta Dolomites. Here we’ll have time to stroll its stunning shores and settle into a pizzeria for lunch. You may want to indulge in a bombardino – like a warm, boozy hug, this thick and creamy eggnog liqueur is topped with a cloud of freshly whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. As the name suggests, it packs a punch! 

This afternoon, our path leads us to the gorgeous alpine city of Trento, where our Tour Leader will help us discover its labyrinth of cobbled streets and frescoed buildings. And tonight, our final Italian feast as a group awaits. From white peacocks to white truffles, there will be no shortage of surprises to discuss! 

 

The crisp mountain air on your skin, the scent of pine and wildflowers filling your lungs, a swathe of iridescent blue stretching out before you... You have indeed woken up! This morning’s setting is spectacular Lake Molveno, nestled at the foot of the jagged and dramatic Brenta Dolomites. Here we’ll have time to stroll its stunning shores and settle into a pizzeria for lunch. You may want to indulge in a bombardino – like a warm, boozy hug, this thick and creamy eggnog liqueur is topped with a cloud of freshly whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon. As the name suggests, it packs a punch! 

This afternoon, our path leads us to the gorgeous alpine city of Trento, where our Tour Leader will help us discover its labyrinth of cobbled streets and frescoed buildings. And tonight, our final Italian feast as a group awaits. From white peacocks to white truffles, there will be no shortage of surprises to discuss! 

 

Included today

Accommodation

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Trento (or similar) 

Meals
  • Breakfast
  • Dinner

Day 13 - Trento – Verona – Venice

O Romeo, Romeo! Our final day chimes with a line that has echoed through the centuries as fair Verona beckons. Here a local guide will fill us in on the story behind Juliet’s Balcony – but it’s not all feuding families and forbidden love. This is a city steeped in history and romance, from its colossal Roman amphitheatre – the weathered stone worn smooth by gladiators’ footsteps – to its vibrant central market, overflowing with fragrant bouquets, tangy pecorino cheese and hand-painted ceramics. 

Last but certainly not least, we’ll settle in our minicoach one last time and head towards our show-stopping finale: the magical floating city of Venice. We’ll arrive in the late afternoon, but recommend you stay on a few days more to enjoy this truly bewitching place. As gondolas skim beneath bridges and the soft murmur of Italian voices drift across the water, it’s time to say arrivederci to our new friends – until we meet again.

O Romeo, Romeo! Our final day chimes with a line that has echoed through the centuries as fair Verona beckons. Here a local guide will fill us in on the story behind Juliet’s Balcony – but it’s not all feuding families and forbidden love. This is a city steeped in history and romance, from its colossal Roman amphitheatre – the weathered stone worn smooth by gladiators’ footsteps – to its vibrant central market, overflowing with fragrant bouquets, tangy pecorino cheese and hand-painted ceramics. 

Last but certainly not least, we’ll settle in our minicoach one last time and head towards our show-stopping finale: the magical floating city of Venice. We’ll arrive in the late afternoon, but recommend you stay on a few days more to enjoy this truly bewitching place. As gondolas skim beneath bridges and the soft murmur of Italian voices drift across the water, it’s time to say arrivederci to our new friends – until we meet again.

Included today

Meals
  • Breakfast

Worth noting:

Thinking about joining us in March or November? Some activities may be unavailable, but you can be sure of a special seasonal alternative! 

Things we think you'll love

Travellers and a hunting hound go hunting for valuable truffles.
Signature moment

A private hunt

Meet your new favourite local guide - a truffle-hunting dog! Alongside his trifolau owner, we'll venture into the tree-clustered forests of Alba for a truffle hunt. We'll grab the opportunity to try the truffle ourselves - when in Rome! Or Alba...

Travellers undertaking an Italian cooking class.

Seasonal Tuscan bites

Cinch your aprons and listen to a master of Tuscan cuisine as they teach you how to make a classic seasonal dish inside a classic countryside villa.

A view of a renaissance era town docks on Lake Maggiore.

Tranquil Swiss-Italian waters

Cruise along the tranquil waters of Swiss-Italian Lake Maggiore, pointing out white-washed buildings and lush trees nestled on the Borromean Islands.

Read the reviews

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5

Wes Br May 2025

This was our second backroads trip in the last two years, and we do recommend their tours to anyone who seeks a more authentic experience of the scenery and culture. Backroads Tour guide and driver...

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5

Anonymous May 2025

Best tour, great guide and driver. I met some lovely aussies as well. Magnificent scenery and well planned stops. This was my first ever tour group holiday and I loved it

5

Bradley Al May 2025

Great tour. The Group leader, Danila was excellent, very informative and helpful ?

5

Kristine Ga May 2025

With our amazing tour leader Chaira we had the most fantastic time on this tour . If you thought Rome was the best you will change your mind a thousands times throughout this tour . The further north...

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5

Suzanne My April 2025

Best tour I have ever done, excellent itinerary and all local guides used were fabulous for the major cities. Accomodation was first class as was the bus and the wonderful and experienced driver. The...

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4

Anonymous April 2025

Tour was well organised and enjoyed the places we visited. Our tour guide Daniel was professional and very helpfull. The food at the castle was exceptional but the welcome and farewell dinner were...

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5

Anonymous April 2025

The best tour leader in Danila; great local knowledge & understood Aussie humour. She went out of her way to provide extra support when needed.
Good selection of places to visit.

5

Anonymous April 2025

We would highly recommend this tour. Top-notch in many ways: excellent itinerary, wonderful guide, competent skilled driver, beautiful accommodations, delicious food and fun experiences. I would do it...

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4

Anonymous April 2025

The tour director and driver were excellent, highly professional and knowledgeable. They went out of their way to make the trip comfortable and enjoyable. Places on the itinerary were wonderful and...

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5

Anonymous April 2025

The tour leader did a very good job. Being fluent in both English and Italian meant that we always understood what was required of us.
Our driver was excellent. He negotiated the difficult driving...

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4

Heather April 2025

The Italian Indulgence tour with Backroads Touring was, overall, a truly memorable experience. Our tour leader was exceptional—an Italian who spent her school years in Australia, she spoke both...

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5

Anonymous April 2025

Wonderful trip, very capably hosted by Danila and Fabio. We could not have asked for better service from our hosts; friendly, informative, nothing was too much trouble for them in their quest to...

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5

Pauline Be January 2025

Our Italian Indulgence Tour with Back Roads in Oct 24 was an outstanding trip and a wonderful experience. We travelled with a likeminded group and two outstanding guides who enjoyed many of the same...

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4

Ronald Du November 2024

Great tour, the staff was outstanding. We went places in Italy were would never go on our own. Very interesting sites!
Some of the hotels we stayed at were not "4-star" facilities!

5

Anonymous November 2024

Fulfilled all my expectations.

5

Amy T November 2024

This was a wonderful tour giving us the opportunity to see so many beautiful places, particularly smaller towns and many regions of Italy. Beatrice was an absolutely fabulous tour leader and really...

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5

Stephen Lo November 2024

Tour leader Saverio Ranieri very informative,We left our Ipad behind in the hotel much to our surprise 3days later we receive our Ipad Nothing was to much trouble for Saverio Our driver Farvio was...

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5

Anonymous November 2024

I would thoroughly recommend this tour .
It was very professionally run with quality accommodation, great vehicle and knowledgeable guide.
It was well planned and the group of 16 was perfect as I...

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5

Jeanine November 2024

The small group touring allowed all of us to get to know each other very well and we had a fabulous group. Our coach was comfortable. Our tour guide, Hello and our bus driver, Fabio, were fantastic...

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5

Anonymous November 2024

My wife and I had a most wonderful time on this tour 13/10 to 24/10. Beatrice our Tour Leader (TL) was absolutely brilliant! She's knowledgeable, funny, always approachable and available to answer...

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5

Patricia L November 2024

We enjoyed seeing so many large cities, small villages and the beautiful Italian countryside. Highlights were Assisi, boat ride on The lakes, Maggiori, Como, Pescatori, the Borromeo Islands, Portafino...

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5

Marea Fi November 2024

A whole new experience for me with group touring. Thoroughly enjoyable it was and Back Road Tours can be applauded for the tour itinerary.

5

Anonymous November 2024

Fantastic tour. Well paced. You need a moderate level of fitness as some of the walks were challenging. Would highly recommend for anyone wanting a taste of Italy.

5

Anonymous November 2024

It was an amazing experience, although not everyone's hotel rooms were equal, in any given hotel which was not particularly fair given we all paid the same for our tour.
In saying that, the Hotel's...

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5

Judith Ha October 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed our trip and Bea our Guide was fabulous

5

Susan He October 2024

Helio was an amazing tour guide. He was friendly, kind and funny. He gave us the history of the area and recommendations for food and activities during our free time. He kept us on schedule and gave...

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5

Bevan Jo October 2024

Absolutely fantastic. We had the best guide and driver in Danella and Fabio.
The others in our tour were like-minded and it felt like we were travelling with friends.

5

Anonymous October 2024

Can't fault our outback experience, the friendly guide, driver and fellow traveller's combined with the daily adventures and experiences made our holiday feel complete. We would definitely book...

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5

Paul Wi October 2024

Fabulous - great places to visit - beautiful scenery, interesting architecture and history.
Extremely well lead by our tour guide, and brilliant and friendly people to travel with.

4

Anonymous October 2024

Must make people with colds or flu wear a mask, a woman on our bus infected the entire bus including the driver. Other than that the tour was very good couple of below standard hotels and maybe a rest...

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5

Pauline Be October 2024

The Back Roads tour of Northern Italy was outstanding. The guides were exceptional and made special arrangements for me that made my tour very comfortable. Nothing was too much trouble for them. The...

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5

Anonymous October 2024

Everything was fabulous although we could have spent longer in some locations and less in others. Some accomodation needed repairs in rooms and wifi

5

Barbara An October 2024

Our tour guide Danila Checchin did an outstanding job! Danila looked after us very well and she was patient and understanding.

Danila showed us some very lovely places and she was able to relate to...

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5

Anonymous October 2024

A thoroughly enjoyable tour.
Louise, our tour leader, was excellent.
The only areas for improvement were:
1. We need to arrive at our accommodation earlier in most cases. If this means cutting stuff...

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5

Wayne Cl October 2024

The tour was most enjoyable and gave a wonderful glimpse of Italy north of Rome.

5

Anonymous October 2024

Thoroughly enjoyed trip an amazing experience. Silvia our tour guide was beautiful and very informative and caring about all the people in the bus.

5

Anonymous October 2024

Tour leader Francesca was excellent as was our driver Gaetano. Locations were great and free time is well appreciated to explore on our own

5

Anonymous October 2024

My husband and myself loved the Italian trip. Lovely company on the bus and our tour guide was excellent.

5

Anonymous October 2024

Travelled through the north of Italy seeing the main sights very comfortable ride with a great driver Giatano and our tour leader Francesca was the best done the trip solo with no regrets recommended...

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5

Anonymous October 2024

We thought the tour was excellent. It encompassed regions and cities that are not typically visited. The small size of the group made the pace enjoyable and enabled plenty of free time to explore...

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5

Anonymous October 2024

Fantastic tour. Our tour leader Silvia Bee went above and beyond; was very engaging; very knowledgeable and was an awesome tour leader.
With only a couple of exceptions, the places we visited were...

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5

Anonymous October 2024

Best tour guide I have ever had amazing trip great country

5

Anonymous October 2024

Excellent tour but staying in lovely places two nights would be appreciated.

5

Chris No October 2024

The tour was fantastic! Lead by Francesca our excellent guide, who showed a thorough knowledge and a brilliant manner to keep us informed and organised. Accomodation was very good and activities were...

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4

Anonymous September 2024

Tour and guide was fantastic, the only reason I’m not 5 stars, was drop off in Venice was a disaster.

5

Mark Me September 2024

Could not have ask for a better tour & to top it off we had the most amazing driver-Fabio & tour guide- Helio. They both are masters.

1

Christine Pa September 2024

We had the best guide and driver both very knowledgeable and helpful. I think that if I did it again I would like to have a couple of free afternoons just for personal care. This would possibly be...

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5

Jenny Kl September 2024

Fantastic from whoa to go, our guide Danielle was brilliant, and the itinerary was varied, and took us to loads of places bigger vehicles wouldn't access.
Driver Roberto kept us safe and our mini bus...

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5

Allan Da September 2024

Our guide Daniele was exceptional.

5

Allan Sm September 2024

Great tour with a small group of 16 people.

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Full tour details covering accommodation, transport and included experiences are available in our tour notes.

FAQs

The weather in central and northern Italy varies depending on the time of year. Generally, summers are hot and dry (slightly cooler as you go further north), and from mid-June to the end of August temperatures can reach 40°C (104°F), so sun hats and sunscreen are essential!

Central Italian winters are cool and wet, and in the north winters can get very cold and snowy (especially in the mountains).

Our thoughtfully selected accommodation is full of charm and historic details – expect elegant country inns, grand town centre hotels and even the odd castle! For this reason, rooms vary in size, and most hotels don’t have lifts – meaning you’ll likely need to access your room via stairs. Porterage will be included wherever possible.

Although air conditioning is mostly unavailable in historic buildings, fans will be provided during hot spells. Most hotels have bathtubs with overhead showers (rather than walk-in showers), so you’ll be able to enjoy a soak at the end of the day. Kettles and coffee machines aren’t usually included in rooms, but there’s no shortage of places to grab an espresso!

Whilst we do cover ground in our minicoach to maximise our time, the best way to truly discover Italy is on foot! Many of the historic town centres we visit – like Siena – are pedestrian-only, inviting us to freely explore their hidden corners. For that reason, sometimes we’ll need to walk 20 minutes or so to and from our minicoach’s parking spot. Combined with our guided walking tours, which typically last for around two hours or more, we’d say that’s the perfect excuse for an extra gelato at the end of the day!

Will we get to visit the Duomo?

We’ll admire the Duomo from the outside during our locally guided walking tour, but entry to the inside is not included.

Absolutely! Tap water is safe to drink throughout Italy, and public water fountains are common in cities like Rome (where they’re known as nasoni or ‘big noses’). If you bring a reusable water bottle you’ll be able to fill up wherever you wish.

With us, you’ll embrace the local rhythm of life – including the dining times! In central and northern Italy, lunch is usually eaten between 1pm and 2.30pm (most restaurants will open around 12pm). Dinner times are typically between 7.30pm and 9pm. Be sure to enjoy an aperitivo beforehand – a pre-dinner drink to whet your appetite!

All the tour details in one handy document available to read at your leisure!

Download tour notes

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