13-Nights Iconic Italy - National Geographic Journeys from $6,299

G Adventures

OFFER ID 1532935

Journeys: Iconic Italy
Connect with some of the world’s greatest cultural highlights on a two-week exploration of Italy. Get in touch with the ancient past alongside an archaeologist amid the ash-preserved ruins of Pompeii, marvel at Renaissance treasures in iconic Venice and enchanting Florence, and stop and smell the lemons in the quaint cliff-side villages of the Amalfi Coast. La dolce vita is sweet indeed.

Highlights
Gaze at the Renaissance treasures in iconic Venice and Florence, explore the ash-preserved ruins of Pompeii, hike the famous "Path of the Gods" in Amalfi, opt to visit the Colosseum in Rome.

Accommodation
Hotels (13 nts).

Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.

Group Size Notes
Max 16, Avg 10.

Meals Included
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch

What's Included
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Pompeii with an Archaeologist, Pompeii Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Sorrento Lemon Farm and Limoncello Tasting, Sorrento Your Journeys Highlight Moment: Amalfi Agriturismo Experience, Amalfi Your Discover Moment: Florence Your Discover Moment: Rome. Orientation walks in Venice, Cinque Terre, Florence, and Rome. Aperitivo experience in Florence. Amalfi "Path of the Gods" hike (weather permitting). All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.

13 nights from $6,299 per person

Itinerary

Click here for Full Itinerary Details

Itinerary Details

G Adventures: Journeys: Iconic Italy

Day 1: Venice
Arrive at any time and meet your fellow travellers at a welcome meeting. After an optional group dinner, join the Chief Experience Officer (CEO) for an evening walk through the city to experience the beauty of Venice under the soft glow of twilight.
Please make your own way to the joining hotel.

Day 2: Venice
Experience another side of Venice on a visit to nearby Murano Island. Walk through the town’s charming streets and hear stories about Murano’s rise as a glassmaking hub during the Renaissance. Watch master glass blowers transform molten glass into intricate pieces, using traditional techniques and hear from a local expert about how this traditional craftwork has spanned generations and become part of the cultural identity of the Venetian islands. Back in Venice, spend the afternoon exploring on your own. Perhaps visit the Guggenheim Museum, indulge in a Venetian food tour, find a quaint cafe on the Grand Canal or enjoy a Venetian gondola ride.

Day 3: Venice/Cinque Terre
Set off from Venice on a drive through the stunning landscapes of northern Italy to La Spezia, gateway to the spectacular Cinque Terre. From here, hop on a train to the seaside village of Monterosso al Mare, one of the area’s 5 villages. Visit the town before choosing how best to continue exploring. Those seeking a more active option can join a local guide for an included moderate hike from Monterosso al Mare to Vernazza, following a trail along terraced landscapes and charming villages. Alternatively, continue exploring the coastal villages by train with your CEO who will provide additional insight into the region throughout your journey. Return to La Spezia and enjoy an evening exploring on your own.

Day 4: Cinque Terre/Florence
Enjoy the morning discovering Cinque Terre on your own or join your CEO on a visit to Portovenere, a charming seaside village with colourful houses and sparkling blue waters. Later, travel south to Florence, the capital of the Tuscany region. Walk through the lively and historic streets with the CEO, stopping for an aperitivo experience with a light dinner at a local bar. After, enjoy an evening stroll back to the hotel, taking in the beauty of the city’s architecture and monuments lit up at night.

Day 5: Florence
Set off on a guided tour of Florence, a city renowned for its stunning architecture and vibrant history. This walking experience, led by a knowledgeable local guide, takes you on a journey through the heart of the Renaissance. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Il Duomo, which took more than 100 years to build. Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Piazza della Signoria, and stroll across the historic Ponte Vecchio. Learn about the city's illustrious past, from the powerful Medici family to its world-renowned artists. Afterward, continue to a delightful market, to explore vibrant stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses and cured meats. Savor the flavors of traditional Tuscan cuisine as you sample local products, including the renowned Pecorino cheese. This enriching experience offers a true taste of Florence's culinary heritage and will serve as a light lunch. Enjoy the rest of the day with free time to explore Florence’s many plazas and world-class museums.
Il Duomo is viewed from the outside, admission inside is not included on the walking tour.

Day 6: Florence
Take advantage of a free day in Florence to pursue whatever your interests may be. Perhaps visit the Galleria dell'Accademia, the Uffizi Gallery, the Pitti Palace or the Medici Chapels (note that some of the more popular attractions in Florence require pre-booking). Or explore the city on foot, stopping at cafes and gelato shops along the way. After an optional dinner out with the group, set off to the Piazzale Michelangelo and enjoy a breathtaking panorama of Florence, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the picturesque sunset.

Day 7: Florence/Naples
Hop on the train to Naples then get your bearings on a short orientation walk with your CEO. See the grand Piazza del Plebiscito, surrounded by the Royal Palace and the Church of San Francesco di Paola. Nearby, view the elegant Galleria Umberto I, with its stunning glass dome and exquisite architecture. Continue north to Via Toledo, a bustling shopping street filled with vibrant shops and local eateries. This evening head out for a delicious foodie tour. Dig into the city’s historic dishes from a classic Napoli Aperitivo to a Neapolitan pizza, then digest with a perfect gelato¬–buon appetito!
It was noted in a National Geographic article that the Queen of Italy visited Naples in 1889 and as she and her husband were strolling through the city centre, they were taken by the delicious aroma coming from a pizzeria. The chef, Raffaele Esposito, was invited to the palace to cook the dish for the royal family once again. Of the three styles Esposito prepared, Queen Margherita preferred that which emulated the Italian flag; red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and fresh green basil; the modern day margherita pizza.

Day 8: Naples/Sorrento
Travel to the UNESCO World Site of Pompeii. Join an archaeologist to explore the fascinating ruins of this ancient city preserved in time by ash and volcanic debris following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Later, continue south to the picturesque coastal city of Sorrento. Soak in the captivating views of the Bay of Naples on a leisurely walk. Then, enjoy the rest of the evening exploring on your own.

Day 9: Sorrento
Spend a free day in Sorrento to do as much or as little as you please. Perhaps explore the nearby island of Capri, boasting beautiful beaches, upscale boutiques, and historic landmarks. Alternatively, visit the volcanic island of Ischia, known for its thermal waters and stunning views of the medieval Aragonese Castle. You may also choose to stay in town and visit the Correale Museum, shop the city’s many boutiques or relax at Piazza Tasso, a square lined with cafés and restaurants.

Day 10: Sorrento to the Amalfi Coast
This morning, set out on a visit to an organic lemon farm and stroll through the fragrant groves. Then, see how limoncello, the refreshing Italian lemon-flavored liqueur, is made. Later, travel by ferry to the town of Positano on the picturesque Amalfi coast and take in the picturesque views of the colourful, cliffside houses gradually receding into the distance. Enjoy the rest of the day to explore on your own then savor a dinner of delicious local dishes.

Day 11: The Amalfi Coast
After an early breakfast, set off on a hike along the famous “Path of the Gods” (weather permitting). Follow the ancient cliff top trail linking isolated farms, villages, churches and monasteries. Named from mythological roots, this trail is said to be the location where the gods rushed to Ulysses from the sirens of Capri. Historically, this path provided a link between some of Amalfi’s small, coastal villages. Enjoy stunning views of bays and coastlines, interesting caves and rock formations, historic ruins and steep cliff sides. Continue to an agriturismo for lunch, which specializes in fresh home grown produce. Meet the family and tour the property—a converted 17th-century monastery, and then enjoy the remainder of the day on your own.

Day 12: The Amalfi Coast to Rome
Travel north to Rome, Italy's capital city and cultural hub. Settle into the hotel and enjoy some free time before regrouping in the evening for a delicious dinner at a local restaurant. Then, take a walking tour where you’ll experience Rome’s iconic landmarks lit up at night. At the Spanish Steps, begin the walk by heading down Via dei Condotti lined with high-end boutiques and bustling cafes. Stroll towards the Trevi Fountain, an iconic masterpiece where you can toss a coin for luck. Continue to the Pantheon walking along charming, narrow streets and bustling squares until you reach Piazza Navona, a grand Baroque square adorned with beautiful fountains, street artists and outdoor cafes–perfect for soaking in the lively Roman ambiance.

Day 13: Rome
Enjoy a free day to explore Rome on your own. Perhaps visit the Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built, and the Roman Forum, previous home to public meetings, court proceedings, and gladiatorial combats. Alternatively, explore the Vatican, home of St. Peter’s Basilica and Leonardo Michelangelo’s famed masterpiece, the Sistine Chapel ceiling. Or choose to spend time wandering the streets and palazzi, taking time to enjoy a coffee or gelato —and embrace la dolce vita!.
Be sure to watch the National geographic documentary series “Lost Treasures of Rome” for added insight into the history of this ancient city.

Day 14: Rome
Depart at any time.

Featured Destinations

Amalfi Coast

Pompeii

Naples

From Naples visitors can explore the rugged Amalfi coast, Italy's most romantic stretch of coastline. Near Amalfi is the resort of Positano, where visitors enjoy strolling through streets and shopping in small boutiques. Take an excursion to legendary Pompeii, an ancient Roman city covered and preserved by the debris from the violent eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The monuments of this city are considered to be among the finest of any ancient city in Europe, and visitors can spend a day here learning about life in a Roman town during the first century A.D. The Cathedral of San Gennaro, a fine medieval building, has one chapel containing the tomb of Charles of Anjou, while another houses the cathedral's gold and silver treasure. Among the Christian underground burial vaults discovered in an area of suburban heights, the Catacombs of San Gennaro can be visited. Capodimonte Park - a well-kept tropical park - has a royal palace built by Charles III in 1738 that now houses Naples' picture gallery, the National Museum of Capodimonte.

Excursions

Naples and Pompeii - 8 hours

Naples: Food Tour of Naples - 4 hours

Naples: The City of Naples - 8 hours

Naples' historic city centre is the largest in Europe, covering 4,200 acres and enclosing 27 centuries of history. One of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the world with Bronze Age Greek settlements dating back to the second millennium BC, the area was re-founded as Neápolis (‘new city’) in the sixth century BC, becoming a lynchpin of Magna Graecia and playing a key role in the merging of Greek culture into Roman society.

Explore Naples today with your expert guide. Highlights include the Spaccanapoli district, the magnificent Duomo cathedral, the Cappella Sansevero with its virtuosic sculptural masterpiece the Cristo Velato, as well as lesser-known gems such as the San Giovanni a Carbonara. Today’s tour encompasses artistic-historic treasures and plenty of local colour. Along the way, enjoy a bite of Naples’ famous street food ‘frittura’, a sinfully delicious mix of deep fried aubergines (eggplant), zucchini, mozzarella, arancini (rice croquettes), cauliflower, or potato croquettes.
Continue your sightseeing tour in the historic centre of Naples. Visit the Castel Nuovo, the imposing medieval structure built by the Angevins to defend the city. You may also wish to visit the adjoining Palazzo Reale (The Royal Palace Museum and Royal apartments), built in the 17th century. The magnificently decorated halls and rooms contain the original Bourbon furnishings, paintings, statues and porcelain. Enjoy a panoramic drive to reach the magnificent Carthusian Monastery, the Certosa di San Martino situated on Vomero Hill, where you may visit the luxuriously decorated Baroque Style church.

Highlights:

Try Naples' famous street food as your guide shows you the historic sights of Italy
Visit the medieval Castel Nuovo, whose magnificently decorated rooms contain original Bourbon furnishings, paintings and statues

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can Operate: Morning

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Low

Inclusions:
•   Luxury car or minivan at your disposal during the tour
•   An expert local guide (8 hours)
•   Entrance fees
•   All taxes

Exclusions:
•   All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
•   Gratuities

Naples: Historic Pompeii & Vesuvius - 9 hours

Rome

Sprawled across seven legendary hills, romantic and beautiful Rome was one
of the great centers of the ancient world. Although its beginning is shrouded
in legend and its development is full of intrigue and struggle, Rome has always
been and remains the Eternal City.

Rome enjoyed its greatest splendor during the 1st and 2nd centuries when art
flourished, monumental works of architecture were erected, and the mighty Roman
legions swept outward, conquering all of Italy. These victorious armies then
swept across the Mediterranean and beyond to conquer most of the known world.
With Rome's establishment as capital of the western world, a new ascent to glory
began.

Today's Rome, with its splendid churches, ancient monuments and palaces, spacious
parks, tree-lined boulevards, fountains, outdoor cafes and elegant shops, is
one of the world’s most attractive and exciting cities. Among the most famous
monuments is the Colosseum. As you walk its cool, dark passageways, imagine
the voices that once filled the arena as 50,000 spectators watched combats between
muscled gladiators and ferocious animals.

Stop to see the remains of the Forum, once the city's political and commercial
center. In later times, Rome's squares were enhanced with such imposing structures
as the Vittorio Emanuele Monument and grandiose fountains like the Fontana di
Trevi. Join the millions who stand in awe of Christendom’s most magnificent
church and admire the timeless masterpieces of Michelangelo's frescoes in the
Sistine Chapel.

Rome jars the senses and captures the soul. Grasp all you can during the short,
precious time you have available in the Eternal City. With so much to see and
do, a day or two will only allow you a sampling of the city's marvelous treasures.

Caution: As in many big cities and tourist destinations purse snatching
and pickpocketing is common. Valuable jewelry and excess cash are best left
in a safety deposit box in your hotel.

Shopping For most visitors shopping for beautiful Italian leather articles,
designer shoes, fashions for men and women, linens, knitwear, silk scarves and
ties is a favorite pastime. Except for tourist-oriented shops, the majority
of stores are closed on Sundays. Some of the department stores, such as Rinascente,
open in the late afternoon on Sundays.

Cuisine Rome's choice of restaurants is mindboggling as is the variety
of cuisine. Whether your meal is at a top-rated restaurant or a rustic trattoria,
you can be sure that you will enjoy your food, especially when accompanied by
wines from the hill towns surrounding Rome.

Other Sights Rome's attractions are endless, and depending on how much
time you have at your disposal a careful selection has to be made about what
to see. Be aware of horrendous traffic conditions and major construction work
all around the city in preparation of Jubilee 2000, the Holy Year. Some of the
sights not to be missed:

Piazza Venezia - This busy square is easily recognized by its imposing Vittorio
Emanuele II Monument. The white marble structure was inaugurated in 1911 as
a symbol of Italy’s unification.

The Forum - Once the civic heart of ancient Rome, today the remains include
a series of ruins, marble fragments, isolated columns and some worn arches.

Colosseum - No visit to Rome is complete without a stop at this awe-inspiring
theater, which is among the world’s most celebrated buildings. Here ancient
Rome flocked to see gladiatorial contests and numerous other spectacles.

Trevi Fountain - Take a stroll to Rome's famous fountain. A spectacular fantasy
of mythical sea creatures and cascades of splashing water, the fountain is one
of the city's foremost attractions. Legend has it that visitors must toss a
coin into the fountain to ensure their return to Rome.

St. Peter's Square - Part of Vatican City, this square created by Bernini
is considered one of the loveliest squares in the world. Twin Doric colonnades
topped with statues of various saints and martyrs flank either side of the square.
In the center stands an 84-foot obelisk, brought from Egypt in 37 A.D.

St. Peter's Basilica - At the head of the square stands Christendom's most
magnificent church, which was begun in 1452 on the site where St. Peter was
buried. Throughout the following 200 years, such Renaissance masters as Bramante,
Michelangelo, Raphael and Bernini worked on its design and created an unparalleled
masterpiece. Of special note are Michelangelo's Pieta and the bronze canopy
over the high altar by Bernini. The immense dome was designed by Michelangelo.

Vatican Museum - To see this museum's immense collection would take days.
As you enter, there are special posters that plot a choice of four color-coded
itineraries. They are repeated throughout the museum and are easy to follow.
It is a good idea to pickup a leaflet at the main entrance and concentrate on
exhibits of major interest. Of course, the Sistine Chapel is a must. Most likely
you may have to wait in line to enter.

Sorrento

Sorrento is a town of extraordinary beauty and is known as a popular gateway to Italy's most spectacular stretch of coastline - the Amalfi Drive lined with fishing villages and famous resorts. The seaside resort of Amalfi sits with weathered houses scrambling up steep cliffs. Visitors marvel at its location and its magnificent cathedral. The religious sanctuary of Cloister of St. Francis is worth a visit. The tiny, exclusive resort of Positano has its famous world-class hotel, San Pietro. Excavations of the ruined city of Pompeii, which was destroyed in 79 A.D. during the disastrous eruption of Mount Vesuvius, give visitors a vivid impression of life in a very wealthy ancient city and the tragic end of its population. The Isle of Capri ranks as one of the most beautiful islands and has captured visitors for centuries with excellent climate, spectacular landscape and fantastic sea caverns. Capri has lavish villas, elegant hotels, chic boutiques and quaint restaurants. Museo Correale contains a death mask of poet Torquato Tasso and some special editions of his works, pictures, furniture and porcelain.

Excursions

Sorrento: The Ancient City of Pompeii - 6 Hours

Sorrento: The Iconic Amalfi Coast - 6 Hours

Sorrento: Capri Exploration by Private Motorboat – 8 hours

Florence

Cinque Terre

Venice

With a great historic past and incomparable art treasures, Venice is renowned as one of the world’s great cities. Its 118 islands are separated by more than 150 canals and spanned by 400 bridges. During Venice's artistic golden age many magnificent structures were erected to create world-famous masterpieces. One of the best sightseeing routes is along Grand Canal, with many palaces lining the famous waterway. St. Mark’s Square offers access to some of Venice’s most famed attractions - St. Mark’s Basilica and Doge’s Palace. From Piazza San Marco, a maze of narrow streets are lined with shops, cafés and restaurants. A popular pastime is sitting at an outdoor café facing the square while people-watching and letting the whole marvelous scenario unfold. Venice’s Murano, Burano and Torcello Islands comprise an area famous as home of Venice’s glass-blowing industry and known for their charm, skilled lace-making and medieval monuments. Relax on a gondola ride, see art treasures in museums, churches and palaces, and have a sumptuous meal - all in this incomparable city.

Excursions

Venice: Splendours of Venice Walking Tour - 4 hours

Venice: Venice for Art Lovers Walking Tour - 4 hours

Venice: The Roman City of Verona - 7 hours

Venice - St. Marks, Grand Canal and Murano - 6 hours

Venice: Lagoon Islands - 7 hours

The story of Murano and Burano

The Canal Grande cruise followed by a walking tour of Venice

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

11/02/2025 - 11/15/2025

from $6,299 per person

04/19/2026 - 05/02/2026

from $6,599 per person

04/22/2026 - 05/05/2026

from $6,599 per person

04/26/2026 - 05/09/2026

from $6,599 per person

05/03/2026 - 05/16/2026

from $6,899 per person

05/10/2026 - 05/23/2026

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05/17/2026 - 05/30/2026

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05/24/2026 - 06/06/2026

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05/31/2026 - 06/13/2026

from $6,899 per person

06/07/2026 - 06/20/2026

from $6,599 per person

06/14/2026 - 06/27/2026

from $6,599 per person

06/21/2026 - 07/04/2026

from $6,599 per person

06/28/2026 - 07/11/2026

from $6,599 per person

07/12/2026 - 07/25/2026

from $6,299 per person

07/19/2026 - 08/01/2026

from $6,299 per person

07/26/2026 - 08/08/2026

from $6,299 per person

08/23/2026 - 09/05/2026

from $6,299 per person

08/30/2026 - 09/12/2026

from $6,299 per person

09/02/2026 - 09/15/2026

from $6,899 per person

09/06/2026 - 09/19/2026

from $6,899 per person

09/13/2026 - 09/26/2026

from $6,899 per person

09/16/2026 - 09/29/2026

from $6,899 per person

09/20/2026 - 10/03/2026

from $6,899 per person

09/27/2026 - 10/10/2026

from $6,899 per person

10/04/2026 - 10/17/2026

from $6,599 per person

10/11/2026 - 10/24/2026

from $6,599 per person

10/18/2026 - 10/31/2026

from $6,299 per person

10/25/2026 - 11/07/2026

from $6,299 per person

11/01/2026 - 11/14/2026

from $6,299 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $6,299 per person

Length

13 Nights

Air City

Call for airfares from your city.

Vacation Rating

Moderate

Remarks

Pricing is per person, land only, in US dollars and based on double occupancy. For specific validity dates, discount amount and tour information, please return to the promotion in question. Promotion valid on G Adventures small group tours excluding Independent, MS Expedition or National Geographic Journeys, unless otherwise stated. Promotion applicable to new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Does not apply to airfare (unless otherwise stated), pre-/post-accommodation, 'My Own Room' or 'My Own Tent', transfers, theme packs, insurance, polar kayaking & camping excursions or other in-country services. G Adventures reserves the right to withdraw this offer from sale at any time. Itinerary and map subject to change. Please click here for a description of the travel style options provided by G Adventures.

Dossier Disclaimer
The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary. VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Itinerary Disclaimer
While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission. Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1532935

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