Country Roads of Southern Italy & Sicily - Classic Group
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through Southern Italy and Sicily with the "Country Roads of Southern Italy & Sicily - Classic Group" tour. This cultural adventure begins in Rome, where you'll explore iconic sites like the Trevi Fountain and the Colosseum. Travel by jetfoil to the enchanting island of Capri, savoring limoncello and breathtaking views. Discover the ancient ruins of Pompeii and the unique Trulli of Alberobello. In Matera, explore the historic Sassi cave dwellings. Cross the Strait of Messina to Sicily, where you'll visit the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento and the vibrant city of Palermo. Enjoy exclusive experiences, including a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, and indulge in local cuisine and wines. With guided tours, comfortable accommodations, and stunning landscapes, this tour offers an unforgettable exploration of Italy's rich history and culture. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to the Eternal City of Rome
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Dinner
2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a centre of celebration between December 24, 2024, and December 31, 2025. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and baroque churches. Settle in, before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travellers. Tonight, enjoy Roman specialties during dinner at a local restaurant. ...more ...less
Day 2: Rome with the Locals
Location: Rome
Accommodation: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Rome is about art, antiquity, piazzas and palaces, and our guided walk with a Local Expert has it in abundance. Sightsee the local way, with a leisurely passeggiata through the backstreets, where a friend in Rome will explain how modern life takes place. Admire the spectacular Trevi Fountain, see the Pantheon, the best-preserved monument from the Roman period. Enjoy a private visit to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes, welcomed by the Rector of the basilica. Enter the Colosseum and imagine the roar of the spectators as you hear stories of how ancient Romans liked to be entertained.
Day 3: Rome to Sorrento
Location: Rome, Sorrento
Accommodation: Isabella, Sorrento
Accommodation Name: Isabella, Sorrento
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As you leave the bustling streets of Rome behind, you enter the peaceful charm of the Italian countryside. The roads wind through sun-dappled hills, where fields of golden wheat and rows of olive trees stretch endlessly under a brilliant blue sky. Small villages dot the landscape, their stone houses nestled against rolling hills, offering a glimpse into authentic Italian life and the air carries the scent of wildflowers and citrus groves. The journey southward reveals itself like a beautiful postcard, with views of the sparkling Mediterranean beginning to emerge in the distance. As you approach Sorrento, the dramatic cliffs and coastal views unfold, the town’s pastel-coloured buildings perched above the shimmering sea, welcoming you to this idyllic coastal paradise.
Day 4: Capri, the Isle of Dreams
Location: Capri
Accommodation: Isabella, Sorrento
Accommodation Name: Isabella, Sorrento
Meals Included: Breakfast
The impossibly blue sea welcomes you to the sun-drenched island of Capri as you cruise by jetfoil. On arrival, meet your Local Expert for an orientation walk through the narrow alleyways. Explore Capri with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the immaculate Gardens of Augustus with a Local Expert and admire the views over the Faraglioni Rocks. Alternatively, enjoy a tasting of limoncello, Capri’s famous lemon liqueur.
Day 5: Pompeii and Alberobello
Location: Pompeii, Alberobello
Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Meals Included: Dinner
Start your day in Pompeii, buried in A.D. 79 by the historic eruption of Mount Vesuvius. Walk with your Local Expert through the cobbled streets to see a city frozen in time. Venture on to Alberobello.
Day 6: The Trulli of Alberobello Relaxed Start
Location: Alberobello
Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Meals Included: Dinner
Admire another of Italy's record number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites with a Local Expert. The trulli of Alberobello are circular structures with conical roofs that are domed within. They are built from local limestone and stacked without using mortar. In the evening, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience using home-grown organic and locally sourced, seasonal produce, you sit down to a delicious four-course, Farm-to-Table dinner.
Day 7: Alberobello at Leisure Relaxed Start
Location: Alberobello, Ostuni
Accommodation: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri, Alberobello
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to join our Local Expert for an exploration of Ostuni, a whitewashed town that echoes the charm of a North African Arab Medina. Stroll through its winding cobbled streets and admire its striking architecture. Later, unwind and make the most of the exceptional amenities at your remarkable hotel.
Day 8: Journey West to Matera
Location: Matera, Grottole
Accommodation: MH Matera Hotel
Accommodation Name: MH Matera Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Visit Matera with a Local Expert for an in-depth exploration of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sassi - a labyrinth of cave dwellings, churches, staircases and arches, hewn out of the solid rock. You may recognise Matera as the biblical backdrop for the film ‘The Passion of the Christ.’ Continue to the small village of Grottole. Once a thriving community, it has lost most of its activity and population. Meet Andrea, a local striving to bring back the area's traditional way of living. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience explore the historic old town to learn about the fascinating history of the village and enjoy an aperitif with local snacks helping to preserve the culture.
Day 9: To Sicily and the Taormina Riviera
Location: Sicily
Accommodation: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Meals Included: Dinner
In the morning, travel along the Violet Coast to the very toe of Italy and board your ferry bound for Sicily, across the Strait of Messina. According to Grecian legend, this was home to the mythical sea monsters Scylla, a six-headed rock monster, and Charybdis, a whirlpool, based on either side of the strait. Together, they posed an inescapable threat to passing seafarers as avoiding one meant passing too close to the other. You will soon arrive at your hotel where you will spend three glorious nights on the Taormina Riviera. Join a Local Expert for a visit to the Greek Theater of Taormina, graced with the most spectacular of backdrops. Stroll along the elegant Corso Umberto to the Piazza IX Aprile and admire the panoramic views and hews of blue from the sky to the azure sea. Later, take your pick of specially selected restaurants for your Dine-Around evening.
Day 10: Free Time on the Taormina Riviera Relaxed Start
Location: Taormina, Mount Etna
Accommodation: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Meals Included: Breakfast
The day is at leisure to relax at your resort's private beach, or perhaps explore the medieval quarter? Don't miss the chance of an optional drive through the national park to Mount Etna, Europe's largest volcano.
Day 11: A New Dawn in Sicily Relaxed Start
Location: Taormina, Syracuse
Accommodation: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Accommodation Name: Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA
Meals Included: Breakfast
Early risers may experience what D.H. Lawrence christened the ‘dawn coast of Europe.' The day is free to explore Taormina at your leisure, or to embark on an Optional Experience to Syracuse.
Day 12: Agrigento, the Valley of the Temples and on to Palermo
Location: Agrigento, Palermo
Accommodation: NH Palermo
Accommodation Name: NH Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Drive to Agrigento and explore the Valley of the Temples with a Local Expert. See the massive Temple of Concord and clifftop Temple of Juno, overlooking the sea. In the afternoon, continue to the Sicilian capital of Palermo.
Day 13: Palermo and the Golden Age of the Normans
Location: Palermo
Accommodation: NH Palermo
Accommodation Name: NH Palermo
Meals Included: Dinner
Join a historian on a guided walk to see the gems of the old city. Visit the amazing Palatine Chapel in the Palace of the Normans. Outside, there are few clues to its astonishing interior, completely covered in glittering 12th century mosaics. Continue to the Palermo Cathedral which has been altered over the years and observe its unique blend of architectural styles. In the afternoon, there is free time to explore or shop in Palermo or continue sightseeing. In the evening, join your fellow guests and Travel Director at a local restaurant for a dinner of delicious local cuisine and wine.
Day 14: Depart Palermo
Location: Palermo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your journey draws to an end. Departure transfers arrive at Palermo Falcone–Borsellino Airport.
What's Included
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Transport
Travel by jetfoil to Capri, ferry across the Strait of Messina to Sicily, and enjoy guided walks and local expert tours throughout the journey.
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Guided Tours
Experience guided tours with Local Experts in various locations including Rome, Pompeii, Alberobello, Matera, and Palermo.
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Exclusive Access
Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a tour to the Roman quarter of Trastevere, a drive through the national park to Mount Etna, or an excursion to Syracuse are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks outside of the included dining experiences are not covered.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
International and domestic flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel by jetfoil to Capri, ferry across the Strait of Messina to Sicily, and enjoy guided walks and local expert tours throughout the journey.
Accommodation
Stay in comfort at the Radisson Blu GHR in Rome, the Isabella in Sorrento, the Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri in Alberobello, the MH Matera Hotel, the Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA in Taormina, and the NH Palermo.
Dining Summary
- 7 Dinner (D)
- 13 Breakfast (B)
Insight Experiences
- Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini's first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
- Rome: Follow in the footsteps of gladiators for a deeper insight into life in ancient Rome when you enter the Colosseum.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes in Rome during an after-hours visit, where you can admire the world's best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. Additionally, you will follow in the footsteps of gladiators with a visit to the Colosseum for a deeper insight into life in ancient Rome. ...more ...less
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What kind of transportation is used during the tour?
The tour includes travel by jetfoil to Capri, a ferry across the Strait of Messina to Sicily, and guided walks and local expert tours throughout the journey.
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Are there any optional experiences available during the tour?
Yes, optional experiences include a tour to the Roman quarter of Trastevere, a drive through the national park to Mount Etna, and an excursion to Syracuse.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
You will stay in comfort at various hotels including the Radisson Blu GHR in Rome, the Isabella in Sorrento, the Grand Hotel La Chiusa di Chietri in Alberobello, the MH Matera Hotel, the Hellenia Yachting Hotel & SPA in Taormina, and the NH Palermo.
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What meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 13 breakfasts and 7 dinners, featuring local specialties and a Farm-to-Table dinner using home-grown organic and locally sourced produce.
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What are some of the highlights of the tour?
Highlights include visiting the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and Piazza Navona in Rome, exploring the ancient town of Pompeii, admiring the Trulli in Alberobello, visiting the Sassi cave dwellings in Matera, and exploring the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
Reviews of this operator
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Country Roads of Southern Italy & Sicily - Classic Group
14 Days Starting in Rome, Italy and ending in Palermo, Italy
Visiting: Rome, Sorrento, Capri, Pompeii, Alberobello, Ostuni, Matera, Grottole, Sicily, Taormina, Mount Etna, Syracuse, Agrigento, Palermo ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
E725AZM20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Activities:
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