Italian Escapade
A 14-Day Insight Tours tour starting from $3,435
(4 out of 5, Based on 2 ratings) | Write a review
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| Starting Price: | $3,435 |  |
| Tour Length: | 14 Days | |
| Countries Visited: | Italy | |
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Cities Visited: This is a perfectly paced tour with two-night stays in Rome, Florence, the Italian lakes, Venice and Sorrento, and one-night in Assisi. All travelling days are of a reasonable length with interesting stops for refreshments and photo opportunities. |
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Included Premium Highlights
- Visit the superb Vatican Museums and admire Michelangelo's ceiling in the Sistine Chapel
- Explore the wonders of ancient Rome as you visit the Colosseum and overlook the Forum
- Visit Florence's Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo's original 'Statue of David'
- Drift through the romantic canals of Venice by traditional gondola
- See some of Europe's finest mosaics in Ravenna, former capital of the Roman Empire
- Cruise to the island of Capri and ascend to Capri town by funicular railway
- Glimpse a moment of every day Roman life, as you tour the excavations of Pompeii
Included Personal Insights
- As night falls, locals dress for the evening and enjoy 'the art of strolling the streets'. Join us in the Italian social ritual of 'La Passeggiata'
- Enjoy a short tutorial about the world famous Chianti wines of Tuscany
Included Additional Excursions & Sights
- Tour St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City
- See Siena's striped cathedral, Fountain of Joy and vast Campo Square
- See Florence's Duomo, 'Gates of Paradise' and Signoria Square
- Visit the tomb of Michelangelo in the Church of Santa Croce, Florence
- See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the equally impressive cathedral and baptistery
- See La Scala Opera House and Gothic cathedral in Milan
- Visit the Swiss lakeside resort of Lugano
- See Juliet's Balcony and the ancient Roman Arena in Verona
- Venice cruise to St Mark's Square to see the Basilica, Bridge of Sighs and Doges' Palace
- Guided visit to Assisi's Basilica of St Francis and see the Church of St Mary of the Angels
- Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery at Cassino
- Demonstration of Venetian glass-blowing
- Demonstration of traditional leatherwork in Florence
- Demonstration of 'Intarsio' inlay woodwork in Sorrento
- Scenic drives - Apennine Hills, Italian Lake District, cliff top drive to Sorrento
Included First Class Services
- Escorted by a professional Tour Director
- Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard restroom
- Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
- Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
- Airport Shuttle arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 14
Included Quality Dining
- Highlight Dinner of local cuisine with entertainment in Rome (HD)
- 12 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 6 three-course table d'hote Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
Day 1 - DEPART USA
Overnight flight.
Day 2 - ROME AT LEISURE
Welcome to Rome, once the hub of a vast empire that spread from Britain to the Persian gulf and from Africa to Germany. On arrival at Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport, your airport shuttle service leaves for the tour hotel at 09:30, 12:30 & 15:30. Relax or spend the rest of the day exploring this wonderful city. As evening falls, join your Tour Director and fellow passengers for a Welcome Drink.
Hotel: Cicerone
Day 3 - ROME SIGHTSEEING
With a local guide, visit the Vatican Museums, the treasure house of the Catholic faith with vast collections of ancient and Renaissance art. Continue to the Sistine Chapel, a masterpiece of Michelangelo's fresco skills. Then enter St Peter's Basilica to see Bernini's 'Popes' Altar' above the spot where St Peter is reputed to have been crucified. Afterwards, cross the River Tiber to ancient classical Rome and visit the world's largest Roman arena, the Colosseum, the scene of many gladiatorial contests, and overlook the Forum, the centre of ancient public life. The afternoon sees time set aside for sightseeing at your own pace. As night falls, why not enjoy a night out with splendid Italian food and wine. (BB)
Day 4 - ROME - SIENA - FLORENCE
Travel north to the picturesque medieval town of Siena and stroll through the winding stone paved streets to the vast Campo Square, where the Palio horse race takes place amid great festivities. See the 'Fountain of Joy' and then walk up to the amazing hilltop cathedral, striped with black and white marble. After some free time, continue through the cypress clad hills and vineyards of Tuscany to Florence, jewel of the Renaissance. En route, hear an informative tutorial about the famous Chianti wines that make this region so famous.
Hotel: NH Firenze (BB,D)
Day 5 - FLORENCE SIGHTSEEING
A guided tour takes you inside the Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo's original statue of David, then continue to the Cathedral to see Giotto's belltower and the 'Gates of Paradise' adorning the Baptistery. Visit the political stage of Florence, Signoria Square, filled with works of art, and finally see the tombs of Galileo and Michelangelo in Santa Croce Basilica. After watching a leatherwork demonstration, you have spare time to shop or continue sightseeing. (BB)
Day 6 - FLORENCE - PISA - MILAN - ITALIAN LAKES
Travel west towards the Mediterranean and stop at Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower in the 'Field of Miracles', and the 11th century Cathedral and Baptistry. Continue north to Milan to admire the Gothic Cathedral and famous La Scala Opera House. After some time here, head to the beautiful Italian Lake District for a two-night stay at a lakeside holiday resort on Lake Maggiore.
Hotel: Hotel Simplon (BB,D)
Day 7 - ITALIAN LAKES AT LEISURE
The day is set aside to relax and enjoy all the fantastic sights this beautiful lakeland area has to offer. Perhaps take a cruise over to Isola Bella, one of the picturesque Borromean Islands? As night time draws in, why not work up an appetite before dinner with a traditional evening stroll (passeggiata) - it's a time to 'see and be seen'. (BB,D)
Day 8 - ITALIAN LAKES - LUGANO - VERONA - VENICE
Briefly enter Switzerland to visit the mountain ringed resort of Lugano. Take time to stroll by the lake's shores and shop for watches or fine chocolate. Continue to Verona to see Juliet's balcony and the ancient Roman Arena. Then it's off to romantic Venice, 'Queen of the Adriatic'.
Hotel: Boscolo Bellini (BB,D)
Day 9 - VENICE SIGHTSEEING
What better way to see Venice than from our private launch, cruising past palazzos and churches to St Mark's Square? See the Basilica, the Doges' Palace and Bridge of Sighs. Watch a demonstration of glass-blowing before enjoying a highlight ride by traditional gondola along the picturesque canals. Spend time at leisure exploring at your own pace. As night falls, why not savour the magic of St. Mark's square with its orchestras and al-fresco cafes. (BB)
Day 10 - VENICE - RAVENNA - ASSISI
Skirt the Venetian Lagoon and cross two of Italy's most important rivers, the Adige and Po, before approaching the city of Ravenna. Stop to visit the Church of St Apollinaris in Classe with its dazzling mosaics. Then the scenery changes dramatically as you drive through the wild Apennines. Your destination is the stone built hill-town of Assisi, home of St Francis. See the Church of St Mary of the Angels and enjoy a guided visit inside the Basilica of St Francis.
Hotel: Grand Hotel Assisi (BB,D)
Day 11 - ASSISI - SORRENTO
Drive southwards, joining the Highway of the Sun, past the vineyards of Frascati and Castelli Romani to the Commonwealth Cemetery in the shadow of the hilltop monastery of Cassino. Continue along the clifftops to the picturesque holiday resort of Sorrento, which bustles with life until late each night.
Hotel: Grand Hotel La Pace/Hotel Corallo Sorrento (BB)
Day 12 - ISLE OF CAPRI EXCURSION
Visit Sorrento's Piazza Tasso and watch the art of 'intarsio' wood inlaying. Now cross the Bay of Naples to the magical island of Capri. Ascend to Capri Town where there is time to browse among the shops and boutiques before returning to Sorrento. (BB,D)
Day 13 - SORRENTO - ROME
Drive to the ancient Roman city of Pompeii, eerily preserved by the eruptions of Mount Vesuvius in AD79. Walk with a local guide through cobbled streets to explore some of the shops, villas and temples. Return to Rome where you enjoy a last night celebration Highlight Dinner including pasta, wine and music.
Hotel: Sheraton Roma (BB,HD)
Day 14 - RETURN TO USA
Arrivederci Roma! Sadly, your tour comes to an end after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 07:00 & 09:30. (BB)
Don't miss our current specials: | ||||
Touring Date |
Land Only |
Land + Air |
Single (Land Only) |
Single (Land + Air) |
4/3/2010 - 4/16/2010 |
$3,485 |
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4/10/2010 - 4/23/2010 |
$3,650 |
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4/17/2010 - 4/30/2010 |
$3,650 |
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4/24/2010 - 5/7/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/1/2010 - 5/14/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/3/2010 - 5/16/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/8/2010 - 5/21/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/10/2010 - 5/23/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/15/2010 - 5/28/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/17/2010 - 5/30/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/22/2010 - 6/4/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/24/2010 - 6/6/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/29/2010 - 6/11/2010 |
$3,650 |
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5/31/2010 - 6/13/2010 |
$3,650 |
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6/5/2010 - 6/18/2010 |
$3,650 |
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6/7/2010 - 6/20/2010 |
$3,650 |
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6/12/2010 - 6/25/2010 |
$3,650 |
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6/14/2010 - 6/27/2010 |
$3,650 |
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6/19/2010 - 7/2/2010 |
$3,635 |
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6/21/2010 - 7/4/2010 |
$3,599 |
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6/26/2010 - 7/9/2010 |
$3,625 |
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6/28/2010 - 7/11/2010 |
$3,599 |
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7/5/2010 - 7/18/2010 |
$3,599 |
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7/12/2010 - 7/25/2010 |
$3,475 |
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7/19/2010 - 8/1/2010 |
$3,450 |
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7/26/2010 - 8/8/2010 |
$3,435 |
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8/2/2010 - 8/15/2010 |
$3,435 |
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8/9/2010 - 8/22/2010 |
$3,435 |
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8/16/2010 - 8/29/2010 |
$3,435 |
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8/23/2010 - 9/5/2010 |
$3,450 |
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8/30/2010 - 9/12/2010 |
$3,565 |
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9/4/2010 - 9/17/2010 |
$3,650 |
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9/6/2010 - 9/19/2010 |
$3,650 |
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9/11/2010 - 9/24/2010 |
$3,650 |
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9/13/2010 - 9/26/2010 |
$3,650 |
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9/18/2010 - 10/1/2010 |
$3,650 |
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9/20/2010 - 10/3/2010 |
$3,650 |
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9/25/2010 - 10/8/2010 |
$3,650 |
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9/27/2010 - 10/10/2010 |
$3,650 |
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10/2/2010 - 10/15/2010 |
$3,650 |
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10/4/2010 - 10/17/2010 |
$3,650 |
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10/9/2010 - 10/22/2010 |
$3,650 |
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10/11/2010 - 10/24/2010 |
$3,650 |
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10/16/2010 - 10/29/2010 |
$3,650 |
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10/18/2010 - 10/31/2010 |
$3,650 |
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10/23/2010 - 11/5/2010 |
$3,499 |
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10/25/2010 - 11/7/2010 |
$3,465 |
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Airfare Disclaimer Documents |
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Included Premium Highlights
- Visit the superb Vatican Museums and admire Michelangelo's ceiling in the Sistine Chapel
- Explore the wonders of ancient Rome as you visit the Colosseum and overlook the Forum
- Visit Florence's Academy Gallery to see Michelangelo's original 'Statue of David'
- Drift through the romantic canals of Venice by traditional gondola
- See some of Europe's finest mosaics in Ravenna, former capital of the Roman Empire
- Cruise to the island of Capri and ascend to Capri town by funicular railway
- Glimpse a moment of every day Roman life, as you tour the excavations of Pompeii
Included Personal Insights
- As night falls, locals dress for the evening and enjoy 'the art of strolling the streets'. Join us in the Italian social ritual of 'La Passeggiata'
- Enjoy a short tutorial about the world famous Chianti wines of Tuscany
Included Additional Excursions & Sights
- Tour St Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City
- See Siena's striped cathedral, Fountain of Joy and vast Campo Square
- See Florence's Duomo, 'Gates of Paradise' and Signoria Square
- Visit the tomb of Michelangelo in the Church of Santa Croce, Florence
- See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the equally impressive cathedral and baptistery
- See La Scala Opera House and Gothic cathedral in Milan
- Visit the Swiss lakeside resort of Lugano
- See Juliet's Balcony and the ancient Roman Arena in Verona
- Venice cruise to St Mark's Square to see the Basilica, Bridge of Sighs and Doges' Palace
- Guided visit to Assisi's Basilica of St Francis and see the Church of St Mary of the Angels
- Visit the Commonwealth War Cemetery at Cassino
- Demonstration of Venetian glass-blowing
- Demonstration of traditional leatherwork in Florence
- Demonstration of 'Intarsio' inlay woodwork in Sorrento
- Scenic drives - Apennine Hills, Italian Lake District, cliff top drive to Sorrento
Included First Class Services
- Escorted by a professional Tour Director
- Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard restroom
- Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
- Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
- Airport Shuttle arrival and departure transfers at scheduled times on Day 2 and Day 14
Included Quality Dining
- Highlight Dinner of local cuisine with entertainment in Rome (HD)
- 12 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 6 three-course table d'hote Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)
Red Hot Special Oberammergau Passion Play
Only once a decade does the Alpine village of Oberammergau stage
its world famous Passion Play and now is the time to book for 2010.
On selected departures, Insight Vacations has great value prices on Passion Play Options and is offering them at 10% off the brochure price!
So, instead of paying $1000 for the Passion Play Option, you’ll pay
only $900 pp! That’s a saving of $200 per couple!
Tour Name Promo Code Departure Date Tour Duration
- Country Roads of Bavaria, HOT106 4 Jun 2010 13 Days
Switzerland & Austria
- Road to Rome HOT107 8 May 2010 15 Days
- European Spotlight HOT108 18 Jun 2010 14 Days
In addition, check out the exciting itineraries below which offer even more
great savings. And should you wish to visit the Passion Play on these tours, simply add the regular Oberammergau Option supplement of $1000 p.p. to the reduced tour price. The choice is yours...
Promo Tour Departure Brochure Price Price
Code Name Date WAS NOW
HOT109 Best of Germany 28 May 2010 $1,935 $1,740
HOT110 European Explorer 27 May 2010 $5,750 $5,175
HOT111 Hightlights of Europe 28 May 2010 $4,225 $3,799
Save $300 Off per couple
Two travelers booking together on an air-inclusive 2010 Europe tour will each save $150 off on all Lufthansa or United Airline flights.
Book Now - offer end March 31st, 2010.
TERMS: Valid for new bookings only. Offer CAN be combined with all brochure discounts. Entire booking including air must be paid in full by March 31, 2010. Offer valid from March 1st-March 31st, 2010. All Travel must be completed by October 24th, 2010. Offer is valid on UA and LH flights only (no code share flights allowed over the Atlantic – must be on UA or LH only). Valid on all tours to Europe, Egypt, Jordan, Israel and Morocco. Offer - $300 off per couple or $150 off for single travelers. Offer subject to availability and valid off of all net fares. Promotion cannot be booked online. Commission paid on air for this promotion is 0%. Air tickets are non-refundable after purchase. No name changes allowed once a reservation is made. Once payment is received, cancellation penalties apply. Offer may be withdrawn at any time. Offer can be used for groups – with availability and names at time of booking – full payment on entire package due March 31, 2010. CST No. 2068745-20
Ratings & Reviews:
This tour's average rating:
(4.5 out of 5, Based on 2 ratings) Write a review.
The most recent reviews for this tour:
The Sorvillo's rated this tour a 5 on 11/1/2009 10:53:53 PM and says:
"Great tour but kept very busy.Our tour guide Debra was fantastic so informative. Never took a tour before and was glad to see ITALY THIS WAY NEVER WOULD HAVE SEEN SO MUCH ON OUR OWN.Just don't look to relax on this vacation. You need one when you come back!! Tip Do as many extra tours you can there worth it."
DMDuff rated this tour a 4 on 10/2/2009 12:25:15 PM and says:
"We had a wonderful time on our Italy Tour(Italian Escapade|September 10-23rd,2009). Insight did a pretty good job moving us around in a Mercedes Coach that was very comfortable. The hotels for the most part were pretty good, but Hotel Dino in the Italian Lakes area and the Grand Hotel Assis were exceptional. The basis tours in package were Ok, but we spent about $1,000.00 on the optional excursions. They proved to be well worth it. A couple of them included meals with wine. The only disturbing note was our stay in Venice. The hotel was ok we just got stuck with some very bad rooms. Other tour members were placed in another section that was recently remodeled. I think the Tour director could have been more helpful, but all she could do was have us write a letter to Switzerland. I really think we are due a credit for the one night and I plan to pursue it with Insight. Atlas was great and we will be talking to you again soon. "
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