Compare Italian Mosaic by Globus vs Picture Perfect Italy - 2022 by Insight Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 13 days | 18 days |
| Price From | $ 4,499 | $ 6,275 |
| Price Per Day | $ 346 | $ 349 |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Premium |
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| Flights & Transport | No | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description | Like the beautiful mosaics gracing the floors and walls of ancient Roman villas, we’ve brought together the most brilliant parts of Italy to create an impact with this visually stunning vacation. Hand selecting experiences from multiple regions of “the boot,” we’ve assembled an imaginative getaway with the brightest pieces of Rome, Florence, and Venice, plus the sultry Italian Riviera, the breezy Lake District, and the sunny coast of Campania. The pastel-tinted Cinque Terre fishing villages, the sparkling blue waters of Capri, and the lemon-tree-lined streets of Sorrento offer a vivid picture of Italy, while the pilgrimage destination of Assisi, the Roman ash preserved city of Pompeii, and the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa provide just the right accents. Traveling north, south, coastal, and inland, this multi-hued tour of Italy is a picture-perfect montage of memories. | From the gondola-filled canals and Venetian masks of Venice to the pastel-hued vineyards and rolling hills of Tuscany, this three-week tour across Italy showcases life through the lens of a Local Expert. Journey along the Italian Riviera to the ancient city of Pompeii—preserved in time after the Mount Vesuvius eruption of AD79. Walk the ancient, cobbled streets before exploring the nearby paradise of Positano, an exclusive artist’s paradise on the Amalfi coast. In the lush surrounds of the Italian Lake District, take to the waters on the Isola Bella Cruise, setting sail for Lake Maggiore’s beautiful Borromean Islands. In Florence, pause to enjoy a wine and olive oil tasting, followed by a Tuscan cooking lesson, all set against a backdrop of vineyards and olive groves. |
Day 1: ARRIVE IN ROME, ITALY
Welcome to Rome! At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (Dinner)
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Day 2: ROME
Roman Holiday ROME Guided sightseeing includes the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Square and see the Basilica. Visit the Colosseum and see the Roman Forum. Free time this late afternoon and evening.* (Breakfast)
* For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTLEGENDARY LIVES Stand in awe and wonder amid one of mankind’s greatest artistic achievements in the Sistine Chapel. Hear how in 1508, a young Michelangelo was commissioned by Pope Julius II to decorate the chapel’s ceiling – a request not welcomed by the 33-year-old sculptor Michelangelo’s 4-year project was indeed one of physical pain and psychological distress, while painting from scaffolds high above the sanctuary floor. Nevertheless, he created what is considered the most famous ceiling in the world, depicting the Creation of Adam in striking fresco style.
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Day 3: ROME–PISA–FLORENCE
The Tilted Tower ROME Scenic drive en route to Pisa.* PISA See the Leaning Tower en route to Florence. (Breakfast) 298 mi / 480 km
* For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTHISTORIC SPOT See architecture gone askew from the viewpoint of the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa. Take the ultimate selfie in front of the Leaning Tower with a tilt of the head or other popular poses to commemorate your visit to the site of medieval art in this beautiful piazza.
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Day 4: FLORENCE
Fine Art in Firenze FLORENCE Guided sightseeing includes Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Baptistry’s heavy bronze “Gates of Paradise,” Signoria Square and Ponte Vecchio. Free time to explore. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHTART & ARCHITECTURE Those lucky enough to visit the Tuscan capital are witness to some of the world’s most magnificent art. Home to a wealth of Rennaissance masterpieces, Florence is famous for Michelangelo’s Marble Masterpiece, David, standing ready for battle while Piazza del Duomo and Signoria Square offer spectacular sights of Florentine Gothic and Renaissance art, architecture, and monuments.
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Day 5: FLORENCE–CINQUE TERRE–LAKE MAGGIORE
Italian Treasures FLORENCE Take a scenic drive en route to Cinque Terre.CINQUE TERRE [LF] Take a guided boat ride (weather permitting). Free time before boarding your train to Sestri Levante. (Breakfast,Dinner) 298 mi / 490 km
LOCAL FAVORITEEPIC RIDE Take a stunning cruise on the coast of Cinque Terre for an exquisite look at sea, sky, and centuries-old seaside villages on the rugged Italian Riviera coastline.
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Day 6: LAKE MAGGIORE. EXCURSION TO ISOLA MADRE
Island Beauties LAKE MAGGIORE Boat ride to [LF] Isola Madre. Visit the botanic garden followed by dinner on the island. (Breakfast,Dinner)
LOCAL FAVORITE PICTURE PERFECT Isola Madre is one of the starring beauties of the Borromean Islands and transport those who cross Lake Maggiore into a reverie of Baroque palazzos and perfect gardens. On the island, a showcase of exotic botanical beauty surrounds the 16th-century Palazzo Borromeo with magnificent magnolias, myrtles, wisteria, and citrus groves. Enjoy dinner at the island restaurant combining good food and stunning views of the lake.
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Day 7: LAKE MAGGIORE–LUGANO, SWITZERLAND–VENICE ISLAND, ITALY
Swiss Views & A Scenic Cruise LUGANO Enjoy an orientation tour and free time.VENICE ISLAND Take a private boat ride on the canals. (Breakfast) 295 mi / 475 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHT CITY SIGHTS Discover the city of Lugano to see its mix of Italian and Swiss, style and culture reflected in its architecture and cuisine. Standing on the Lake northern shore, the city is surrounded by mountain peaks. Piazza della Riforma and pastel palazzos share the ambience of this lovely Swiss city with impressive architecture and bold and innovative street art.
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Day 8: VENICE ISLAND
Benvenuti a Venezia VENICE ISLAND Guided walking tour to see St. Mark’s Square and Basilica, Doge’s Palace and the Bridge of Sighs followed by a glassblowing demonstration. Free time this afternoon and evening. (Breakfast)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT HISTORIC SPOT Locals simply call Piazza San Marco “la piazza.” As paired with the smaller Piazzetta, it forms the social, religious, and political hub of Venice, which Napoleon called “the drawing room of Europe.” St. Mark’s Basilica dominates the square, offering visitors a spectacular view of the great arches, marble embellishments, and the Romanesque carvings of its façade. Also gracing the square is Doge’s Palace – a masterpiece of Venetian Gothic architecture. The enclosed Bridge of Sighs, connecting the palace with the prison, is named for the prisoners breathing in their last view of the Rio di Palazzo on their walk to the prison’s interrogation rooms.
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Day 9: VENICE ISLAND–ASSISI
Medieval Marvels ASSISI A guided walking tour includes St. Clare’s Church and St. Francis’ Basilica. (Breakfast,Dinner) 261 mi / 420 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHTICONIC FOOTSTEPS Walk in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi with a visit to the Basilica named after the deacon, friar, and mystic, who became one of the most venerated religious figures in Christianity. Revered for his love of the Eucharist and the Earth, Francis found communion with God through nature here in this Italian village where he lived and died. Marvel at the magnificent frescoes by Italian master Giotto that adorn the Basilica where the Saint is buried.
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Day 10: ASSISI–SORRENTO AREA
Italian Vistas Depart for a scenic drive to Sorrento. (Breakfast) 267 mi / 430 km
TOUR HIGHLIGHTPICTURE PERFECT Join the ranks of holiday-goers on the sun-kissed cliffs of Sorrento, where literati like Byron, Goethe, Dickens, and Tolstoy soaked in the sun and took their inspiration from atop the gateway to the Amalfi Coast. Here, in the town of lemons, you can give in to the sweet temptations of lemon gelato and limoncello to toast the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
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Day 11: SORRENTO AREA. EXCURSION TO CAPRI
Coves, Cliffs & The Clear Blue Sea SORRENTO AREA Jetfoil ride to Capri.CAPRI Take a funicular ride from the harbor to the village for guided sightseeing, including [LF] Augustus Gardens and a granita (semi-frozen drink) tasting. Free time for lunch.SORRENTO AREA Free time this afternoon and evening. (Breakfast)
LOCAL FAVORITE NATURAL WONDERS Nestled high above the sea on the island of Capri lie the exquisite Gardens of Augustus. This natural paradise promises 180-degree panoramic views and a kaleidoscope of botanical brilliance on the cliffs overlooking the island and the sapphire sea below. Toast the view with a glass of granita for a frozen treat amid the sun-washed monuments and mesmerizing vistas.
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Day 12: SORRENTO AREA–POMPEII–ROME
Time Standing Still in Pompeii POMPEII Take a guided walking tour of the excavations, followed by free time for lunch.ROME Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant this evening.* (Breakfast,Dinner) 193 mi / 310 km
* For operational reasons, schedule changes for the Rome program cannot be excluded.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTLEGENDS & LORE The fascinating archaeological site of Pompeii is a treasured glimpse into Roman life near the Bay of Naples. This once thriving and sophisticated Roman city was consumed by the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D., with its residents and structures buried beneath inescapable ash and stone. See the preserved site of excavated ruins that reveal remarkable frescoes, artwork, and artifacts within its streets and dwellings of the people who perished here.
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Day 13: ROME
Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)
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Day 1: Welcome to Venice
Welcome to Venice. On arrival complimentary airport transfers are provided to your hotel, at 09.30, 12.30 and 15.30, and the rest of the day is yours at leisure. Later, meet your Travel Director and fellow travel companions for a delicious Welcome Dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 2: Venice and the Magic of La Serenissima
Discover this fabled city with a Local Expert. Standing in the iconic Piazza San Marco, admire the grand Basilica and Doge’s Palace. See the Grand Canal and learn about the history and culture of “La Serenissima”. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Perhaps experience a romantic gondola ride or get a bird’s eye view of Venice from one of the bell towers.
Day 3: Cortina d’Ampezzo and the Dolomites
Journey through the distinctive Dolomite Mountains, where rugged peaks take the form of towers, belfries or domes and visit the chic ski resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo.
Day 4: A relaxing day at leisure
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Perhaps ascend to the summit of one of the nearby peaks by cable car?
Day 5: From the Mountains to Milan and Magical Lake Maggiore
Head for magnificent Milan to see the impressive cathedral, the Duomo di Milano, its façade resplendent with pinnacles and spires. Then travel on to the enchanting Italian Lake District, where you will spend three nights by the water in beautiful Baveno.
Day 6: The Borromean Islands Relaxed Start
Take to the waters of Lake Maggiore for a delightful cruise to the beautiful Borromean Islands. Visit Isola Bella renowned for its incredible palace and stunning Botanical Gardens.
Day 7: Lake Como and Lakeside Lugano
Discover Bellagio – the pearl of Lake Como! Enjoy glorious water views and explore the narrow cobblestone alleyways, filled with luxurious boutiques. Visit the romantic gardens of Villa Carlotta. Built at the end of the 17th century, this botanic haven is famous for its art and is a photographer’s paradise. Next, embark on a scenic drive along the shores of the lake, past splendid villas set in the sub-tropical gardens with the Swiss Alps providing the backdrop. Cross into Switzerland to explore the fashionable resort of Lugano.
Day 8: Portofino and Rapallo on the Italian Riviera
Leave the Italian Lake District and travel down the sunny, color-splashed Ligurian coast, better known as the Italian Riviera! Here, visit the exclusive fishing village of Portofino, the epitome of La Dolce Vita. Admire the gaily colored houses, browse the trendy boutiques, stay a while in the cafes on the piazetta and watch yachts bob in the harbor. Enjoy a short cruise (weather permitting) along the picturesque Ligurian coast, before this evening’s dinner - seafood fans are in for a treat!
Day 9: Cinque Terre
Explore the quaint fishing villages that hug the cliff-face with a Local Expert. This idyllic spot is perfect for taking photographs and making memories. Enjoy some free time to soak up the atmosphere before returning to your hotel.
Day 10: Tuscany Relaxed Start
Enjoy a relaxed start this morning with time to further explore Rapallo. In the afternoon continue to San Gimignano, and to your charming hotel, nestled in the wine growing region.
Day 11: Tastes of Tuscany Excursion
Get your cameras ready for a scenic drive through the beautiful rolling countryside of Tuscany, past olive groves, old farmhouses, medieval towns, and rows of vineyards. Visit an estate in the heart of Tuscany to taste the finest wine and olive oil, before your cooking demonstration. Enjoy the Tuscan lunch you prepared from antipasto to dessert, along with a glass of the famous wine, Salute!
Day 12: Florence Excursion
Join a Local Expert in Florence and enjoy an animated commentary as you the walk from the burial place of Michelangelo at the Basilica of Santa Croce, to the Uffizi Gallery. Later, admire Signoria Square adorned with statues and fountains, and visit the Pitti Palace. Here you can take a moment to relax on the exquisite Boboli Garden terrace.
Day 13: Hilltop Orvieto Relaxed Start
Drive to picturesque Orvieto, perched a cliff overlooking endless vineyards. Savor the distinctly medieval ambiance during your walking tour with a Local Expert, and admire the richly decorated façade of the cathedral in Piazza del Duomo. This evening, take in the flavors of the region over a delicious dinner with a glass of Orvieto Classico wine.
Day 14: Pompeii and the Amalfi Coast
Drive south to the ancient city of Pompeii, preserved by the eruptions of Mount Vesuvius in A.D. 79. Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets to explore the shops, villas, and temples. Continue to the artist's paradise of Positano on the breathtaking Amalfi coast - its Moorish flair and colourful houses make it one of the most photographed places in Italy. As evening descends, make the most of this beautiful setting with an imaginative dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 15: Excursion to the Isle of Capri
Admire magnificent scenery at every turn as you travel along the Amalfi Coast to board your ferry to Capri – the “Isle of Dreams”. Arriving at the Marina Grande, take the funicular railway down to Capri Town. Browse the elegant shops before taking the spectacular Corniche road to Anacapri, with its magnificent views over the Mediterranean. Enjoy plenty of free time to explore before returning to the mainland.
Day 16: The Gardens of Villa d’Este and Rome
Drive to the UNESCO listed gardens of Cardinal d’Este. In the 16th century, the cardinal diverted the River Aniene to feed hundreds of fountains for his fantasy garden which still function perfectly today! The day concludes with an arrival into The Eternal City of Rome.
Day 17: Rome with a local
Today, join a Local Expert and discover the full glory of ancient Rome. See the incredible Circus Maximus, get up close and personal with the beautifully preserved Arch of Constantine and walk on the ancient pavement. Learn about the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum as you stroll around its exterior. Later, perhaps continue your exploration of Rome to see the Pantheon, toss a coin in Trevi Fountain and enjoy free time around Piazza Navona? At the Celebration Dinner this evening, enjoy the regional flavors of Rome paired with local wines.
Day 18: Arrivederci Roma
Bid farewell to the glories of Italy. Departure transfers arrive at Rome’s Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport at 07:00 and 09:30.
