A Journey Through Italy's Cultural Heritage
Explore Italy's remarkable history on a ten-day journey from the timeless streets of Rome to the beautiful Mediterranean coastline of southern Italy. Begin in the Eternal City, where magnificent monuments, ancient ruins and artistic treasures reveal the legacy of the Roman Empire. Continue into the volcanic hills of Castelli Romani, known for their traditional vineyards, charming villages and beautiful countryside. Travel along the historic Coast of Ulysses, visiting picturesque seaside towns, medieval landmarks and ancient sites associated with Greek and Roman mythology. Further south, explore the fascinating volcanic landscapes surrounding the Bay of Naples, discover the remarkably preserved streets of Pompeii and enjoy the coastal elegance of Sorrento. Throughout the journey, experience authentic Italian cuisine, regional wine tastings and engaging cultural visits accompanied by knowledgeable local experts.
Combining celebrated landmarks with lesser-known historical treasures, this programme offers a rewarding exploration of Italy's rich heritage and enduring traditions.
Included / Excluded
To make your journey as seamless as possible, we have outlined what is included in your arrangements, along with anything you may wish to organise separately.
- 9 nights' accommodation in selected 4-5 star hotels with breakfast
- Transportation throughout the touring programme as specified
- Coach parking and permits where required
- Welcome wine tasting and light supper in Rome
- Farewell lunch featuring traditional Neapolitan cuisine
- Two wine tasting experiences in the Castelli Romani region
- Olive oil tasting and traditional Roman lunch
- Wine tasting and light lunch near Mount Vesuvius
- Guided cultural walking experiences in Rome, Naples, Pompeii, Sperlonga and Gaeta
- Entrance to the Vatican Museums
- Entrance to the Monastery and Split Mountain in Gaeta
- Entrance to the Castle and Archaeological Museum of Baia
- Entrance to the Flavian Amphitheatre in Pozzuoli
- Cultural guidance from Joseph Walker and local Italian experts during specified sections of the programme
- International and domestic flights
- Meals and beverages not specifically listed as included
- Tips and gratuities
- Any services not listed under “Included”
Itinerary
Every journey is designed with time to experience each destination properly. Explore remarkable places, discover local flavours and enjoy experiences that bring you closer to the history, culture and character of the places you visit.
Arrive in Rome and settle into your accommodation.
In the evening, meet your host, Joseph Walker, and fellow travellers for a welcome gathering featuring a wine tasting and light supper.
Enjoy an introduction to the fascinating history and cultural experiences awaiting you over the coming days.
After breakfast, travel to Vatican City for a visit to the renowned Vatican Museums.
Explore extraordinary collections of art, sculpture and historical treasures gathered over centuries.
Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the world’s most magnificent religious landmarks, celebrated for its remarkable architecture and artistic masterpieces.
Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure.
Spend the morning exploring the extraordinary monuments of ancient Rome.
Visit the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill with a knowledgeable local cultural expert.
Walk along the ancient Via Sacra and discover the temples, public buildings and archaeological remains that once formed the heart of the Roman Empire.
Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore Rome independently, relax at a café or wander through its charming piazzas.
Later, join your host for a guided walk through some of Rome’s most celebrated landmarks, including the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Spanish Steps.
Leave Rome and travel south into the beautiful countryside of Castelli Romani.
This historic wine-producing region is known for its volcanic landscapes, traditional villages and longstanding culinary heritage.
Enjoy two regional wine tasting experiences, including an introduction to local olive oil traditions.
Continue to Castel Gandolfo, overlooking the scenic waters of Lake Albano, for a traditional Roman lunch.
Spend time appreciating the area’s beautiful surroundings and rich cultural history.
Travel south along the scenic Mediterranean coastline, following a route associated with the ancient legends of Ulysses.
Stop at San Felice Circeo, where the dramatic coastal landscape is linked to the mythical enchantress Circe.
Continue towards Terracina to admire the ancient Temple of Jupiter Anxur overlooking the sea.
Visit Sperlonga, a beautiful whitewashed coastal village known for its historic streets, spectacular views and connections to the Roman Emperor Tiberius.
Enjoy a guided cultural walk and free time for lunch before continuing to Gaeta.
Arrive in this charming seaside town, where the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Begin the day exploring Gaeta’s remarkable historical and natural attractions.
Travel to Monte Orlando, where panoramic views extend across the Mediterranean coastline.
Visit the Mausoleum of Lucius Munatius Plancus, an impressive Roman monument associated with one of Julius Caesar’s military commanders.
Continue through Gaeta’s medieval centre, discovering historic buildings and architectural influences reflecting the town’s fascinating past.
A highlight is Montagna Spaccata, or Split Mountain, a dramatic natural formation overlooking the sea.
Enjoy the afternoon and evening at leisure, with opportunities to explore Gaeta’s restaurants and waterfront
Travel south into the Campi Flegrei, an extraordinary volcanic region overlooking the Bay of Naples.
Visit the Flavian Amphitheatre in Pozzuoli, one of the largest Roman arenas ever constructed.
Explore its fascinating history and learn about the gladiatorial spectacles that once entertained Roman audiences.
Continue through the volcanic countryside, where ancient Greek mythology and Roman history are closely connected.
Visit the Castle of Baia and its archaeological museum, home to remarkable artefacts from the surrounding ancient settlements.
Enjoy beautiful views across the Bay of Naples before continuing to Sorrento.
Spend the morning exploring Pompeii, one of the world’s most extraordinary archaeological sites.
Walk along ancient Roman streets and visit historic houses, public spaces and archaeological remains preserved following the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79.
Learn about everyday life in this once-thriving city and admire its remarkable architecture and artistic heritage.
Following your visit, travel to a local vineyard near Mount Vesuvius for a wine tasting and light lunch.
Sample regional wines, including those produced from grapes grown in the fertile volcanic landscape.
Return to Sorrento for an afternoon and evening at leisure.
Travel to Naples for a day exploring one of Italy’s most vibrant and historically significant cities.
Discover its Greek origins, Roman heritage and centuries of royal history during a guided cultural walk.
See landmarks including Castel Nuovo, Galleria Umberto I and Piazza del Plebiscito.
Continue through the historic centre and explore the fascinating archaeological remains beneath the city, where ancient streets and marketplaces reveal Naples’ layered history.
Enjoy a farewell lunch featuring authentic Neapolitan pizza and traditional local specialities.
Return to Sorrento in the late afternoon, with the evening free to enjoy the town at your leisure.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before transferring to Naples Airport or the railway station for your onward journey.
Your cultural exploration concludes with memories of Rome’s magnificent monuments, charming Mediterranean towns, ancient archaeological treasures and Italy’s exceptional culinary traditions.
