Italy Explored

Italy Explored

Italy, the historical centre of the Roman Empire, boasts more cultural sights and attractions than you could ever hope to see in a single visit. In fact, Italy lays claim to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites (54 in total) than any other country in the world. Many of these awe-inspiring attractions - often rather casually located amid the hustle and bustle of modern city-life - are essential to an understanding of contemporary western civilisation. From the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the intricate Gothic architecture of Cathedral Square to the almost obscene wealth of artwork housed in the galleries of Tuscany, a holiday in Italy is nothing short of spectacular.

Of course, Italy's culture does not only belong in the past, with the country remaining on the cutting-edge of haute couture. Watching the famously stylish locals clip along cobblestoned streets in six-inch stiletto heels is almost a tourist attraction in itself. Shopaholics will feel as though they've found paradise, browsing the boutique stores of Milan's Fashion Quadrilatero; while gastronomes should prepare themselves for a holiday punctuated by unforgettable meals. The world-famous cuisine is naturally even more delicious when prepared in its homeland, with visitors to Italy able to look forward to interesting regional variations of their favourite pizza and pasta dishes.

Whether enjoying a holiday in Venice, where the songs of gondoliers are carried on the evening breeze, relaxing on the staggering Amalfi coastline, or exploring Verona, sipping an espresso in a crowded piazza while the sun sinks behind a skyline of Gothic spires, Italy will be an unforgettable experience.

Introducing LiNGER

Introducing LiNGER

We are an independent travel company, specialising in tailor-made sabbatical travel and extended holidays throughout the world. Whether you are a solo traveller on holiday, a family with children on sabbatical, friends seeking an epic break or a couple celebrating a milestone, we would be thrilled to plan your trip. LiNGER was born out of a passion for travel and a desire to do a little more to help protect our planet. Our philosophy is to engage you in a richly authentic and contrasting travel experience which balances meaningful, active and altruistic experiences. Our travellers LiNGER longer, travel responsibly, immerse themselves in the culture, absorb, engage and explore. We love to talk about travel and inspire you with our knowledge.

In A Nutshell

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Welcome to Rome

Welcome to Rome
Daily Summary
  • Transfer: Transfer from Rome Airport to Hotel
  • Excursion: Dolce Vita Tour of Rome
  • Accommodation: Palazzo Scanderberg

On arrival at Fiumicino airport, and after passing through immigrations, customs and baggage, proceed to the Arrivals Hall, where your driver will be waiting to meet you, bearing a sign with your name. Private transfer from Fiumicino Airport to Palazzo Scanderbeg; a drive of approx. 45 minutes.

Dolce Vita Tour of Rome

Once settled into your accommodation, we will include a gentle introduction to Rome.

Hop aboard your horseless chariot for an exciting ride through Rome. This motorized passeggiata will take you through the cobbled streets of Rome with various stops to admire some of the most iconic views of the Eternal City. The cart will take you to the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, Navona Square, and the Pantheon, on an itinerary that was eternalized in 1960 by Federico Fellini's famous movie "La Dolce Vita".

The tour duration is approx. 3 hours, but this is flexible, and if you wish to finish earlier, this can be arranged.

Introducing Rome

Rome, known as the Eternal City, is an ancient and fascinating travel destination, which tops the bucket list of many a historical sightseer and Catholic pilgrim. Hundreds of thousands of visitors travel to Rome on holiday every year to steep themselves in the remnants of the ancient Roman Empire, glory in the artistic treasures of the Vatican City, and gorge on pasta and pizza in pretty piazzas. Rome boasts possibly the best historical sightseeing in the world, with priceless ancient attractions strewn all over the city. Gems like the Pantheon and the Colosseum can single-handedly justify a trip to Rome. Though it may feel eternal, the Italian capital also offers some modern thrills, with a stylish fashion scene and good shopping, sumptuous restaurants, a proud and lively population, and a laid-back, fun nightlife. For many Catholics, a visit to Rome and the Vatican City is an unforgettable religious pilgrimage, and even non-Christians will be awed by Michelangelo's frescoes in the Sistine Chapel and the numerous treasures and beauties of the Pope's seat. Art-lovers will find marvels on every street corner and some of the most astounding galleries, museums and churches on earth.

Day 2: Day at Leisure in Rome

Day at Leisure in Rome
Daily Summary

Enjoy a day at leisure to explore the local sites.

You could visit independently one of the city’s museums such as Galleria Borghese (we can arrange pre-paid skip the line tickets to avoid queuing), or one of the contemporary art museums such as MACRO and MAXXI.

Otherwise, you can enjoy a stroll in one of the nearby parks (we can arrange a picnic from a local bistro in Villa Pamphili).

There is the also the option of hopping in a cab to the ancient Via Appia. On Sundays, it is closed to cars, so it’s a really lovely time to wander on foot or to cycle around. There are ancient Christian catacombs that can be visited.

Day 3: Morning Visit to the Sistine Chapel and Vatican. Afternoon Train to Florence

Morning Visit to the Sistine Chapel and Vatican. Afternoon Train to Florence
Daily Summary
  • Excursion: Tour of the Sistine Chapel and The Vatican Museum
  • Train: Train Journey from Rome to Florence
  • Accommodation: Grand Hotel Minerva
  • Meals: B

Tour of the Sistine Chapel and The Vatican Museum

Pick-up from your hotel lobby by your private driver for the transfer to the Sistine Chapel.

This exceptional tour of the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museums allows you to skip the queues and enter one of the most incredible places in the world. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to see the rich collection of masterpieces as well as enjoy Michelangelo’s world-famous masterpiece. Begin in the epic Sistine Chapel to marvel at the Last Judgement and glorious Creation of Adam in peace. You will also see the Gallery of Candelabra, Gallery of Tapestries, and Gallery of Maps all brought to life by your guide's commentary. Relish the works of art of Michelangelo, Raphael, Bernini, Botticelli, and more!

Board a high-speed train to Florence, to enjoy the beauty of the Tuscan Italian landscape.

Introducing Florence

Seemingly eternal in its allure, Florence is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a treasure trove of Renaissance art and culture. Despite being over-run with tourists for centuries, people continue to flock to this artistic, architectural and cultural gem. In a relatively small area, Florence contains a wealth of Renaissance art treasures on streets that were once walked by great artists like Michelangelo, Boticelli and Leonardo da Vinci. The entire historic old town of Florence is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city is also known for its good shopping and great Tuscan cuisine. Florence is the launching pad for the stunning countryside, wine routes, Etruscan sites and medieval hill villages of Tuscany, one of the most popular tourist region's in Italy.

Day 4: Visit Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery

Visit Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery
Daily Summary

Uffizi and Accademia

The Accademia Gallery is, together with the Uffizi, one of the most visited museums in Florence and the world. The most famous and interesting works of art that make the Accademia famous are without a doubt those created by the genius Michelangelo, and above all, the spectacular statue of David.

Day 5: Enjoy a Winery Visit with Lunch followed by an Afternoon Tour of Siena

Enjoy a Winery Visit with Lunch followed by an Afternoon Tour of Siena
Daily Summary
  • Excursion: Tuscan Delights including Winery Visit and Siena
  • Accommodation: Grand Hotel Minerva
  • Meals: B, L

Tuscan Delights including Winery Visit and Siena

On a private drive through the Tuscan countryside, the first stop will be a visit to one of the famous wine estates in the Chianti region. Here a gorgeous lunch is included amongst the vines while learning about the vineyard & wines.

On the way back, stop for a visit in the historical town of Siena, where your guide will bring the city to life with behind the scenes stories about the “Palio" and medieval traditions. Entrance is included to a famous 'contrada' (a neighbourhood in the historic centre).

Day 6: Train Journey to Bologna with a Private Tasting Tour on Arrival

Train Journey to Bologna  with a Private Tasting Tour on Arrival
Daily Summary

Board a high-speed train from Florence to Bologna.

Walking Tour of Bologna for Foodies

Enjoy a walking tour through the streets of Bologna’s Quadrilatero market with a private guide, tasting local specialties and discovering curiosities about Bolognese food. Immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of the city centre. Visit the famous bottegue of Bologna and enjoy an excellent glass of local wine.

Bologna is a synonym for food & wine tradition. Mortadella, “ragù alla Bolognese”, handmade fresh-egg pasta such as tortellini, lasagne, and tagliatelle; boiled meat, certosino cake: these are only some of the foods that have made Bologna's gastronomy famous throughout the world, together with the fabulous “sfogline” (women making handmade pasta). The city's gelato has gained renown, inspiring a permanent exhibition at the Gelato Museum Carpigiani in Anzola dell’Emilia.

What is more, in the fortress of Dozza, near Imola, visitors can taste more than 1000 varieties of local wines at the Enoteca Regionale (Regional Winehouse). Colli Bolognesi DOC wines are famous, like the typical Pignoletto. And finally, the town of Savigno, located in the Apennines, is the region’s most important collecting area for white truffles, to which every year the festival “Tartoflà Savigno, Festival Internazionale del Tartufo Bianco” is devoted, attracting hundreds of Italian and international visitors and connoisseurs.

Introducing Bologna

Located in the northern part of the peninsula, at the foot of the picturesque Apennine Mountains, Bologna is often overlooked on Italian holidays. While not as large or famous as cities like Rome or Venice, Bologna is an important cultural and artistic centre in Italy, voted European Capital of Culture in 2000. Designated a UNESCO City of Music in 2006, there are always concerts and other performances happening in any number of concert halls, rock venues and electronic clubs. Home to the oldest university in the world, Bologna also has a lively student population which keeps it young at heart. The medieval city centre has been faithfully preserved and the original Roman street plan is still visible. Visitors can see countless landmarks and historic buildings, including the Palazzo Comunale, the Basilica of San Petronio and the Santuario della Madonna di San Luca, which offers panoramic views of the city. Most famous are the Two Towers of Bologna: the Tower of the Asinelli and the Tower of the Garisenda, whose 10ft (3m) lean is obvious compared to its twin. There are dozens of world-class museums in the city including archaeological, art and cultural institutions along with three Italian car museums. Considered to be one of the gastronomic capitals of Italy, visitors will be delighted by the excellent Italian cuisine made fresh from local produce.

Day 7: Morning Gastronomy Tour including a Cheesemaking Factory. Afternoon Visit to Motor Valley

Morning Gastronomy Tour including a Cheesemaking Factory. Afternoon Visit to Motor Valley
Daily Summary

Parma: Food Valley Tour

Embark on your gourmet adventure between the provinces of Parma and Modena, of the most iconic Italian specialties: Parmigiano Reggiano and Balsamic Vinegar.

Your first stop is at a local Cheese Factory dedicated to the production of the inimitable Parmigiano Reggiano. Your private guide will explain to you the functioning of the cheese factory. An entire large cheese wheel will be freshly opened in front of you: savour its aroma and taste it at its best. All will be accompanied by samples of prosciutto, fresh bread, jams and honey.

Continue to a historical "acetaia" where you'll visit a producer of the world famous Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena. Discover the ancient and noble tradition of Balsamic Vinegar making. The patient custody and care reserved for each cask of balsamic vinegar will enchant you.

Visit 'Motor Valley'

Head to Maranello - 'Motor Valley'. The afternoon is all about motorsport and cars, exploring the Ferrari museum & taking on the F1 Car driving stimulator experience.

“Give a child paper and coloured pencils and ask them to draw a car; they will make it a red one” said Enzo Ferrari. The Prancing Horse is not just a dream for car aficionados, it’s an amusement park, two museums, fashion collections, and a restaurant. Jump into the simulator and be wowed by the collections.

Day 8: Train Journey to Venice for a Private Tour

Train Journey to Venice  for a Private Tour
Daily Summary

Board the high-speed train from Bologna to Venice.

Classic San Marco and Rialto Tour

Hop on your private water taxi to start your adventure.

Your tour will start at Saint Mark's square, the former political and religious centre encompassing the most important buildings in town: the Library, the Doge’s Palace, the Procurators Offices, and the Church of Saint Mark that we will enter. Inside, be captivated by the 8,600 square feet of mosaics covering the entire vaults while your guide recounts the best stories depicted in the diminutive glass tiles. Venture through the maze of alleyways and squares, ending at Rialto bridge.

Introducing Venice

One of the most romantic and unique travel destinations in the world, Venice's fame is perennial and well-deserved; the watery city is full of treasures and surprises. Floating on its blue lagoon with an almost dream-like quality, Venice is just as romantic and beautiful as it looks in travelogues and movies. The charming piazzas and singing gondoliers, idiosyncratic buildings and crumbling palaces are all there to be seen, admired and photographed for posterity. Venice's art galleries, museums and churches house some of the masterpieces of European art and the difficulty for tourists is choosing what to see when since so many treasures are accessible.

Day 9: Enjoy a Boat Trip in the Northern Lagoon Area along with Entrance to Peggy Guggenheim

Enjoy a Boat Trip in the Northern Lagoon Area along with Entrance to Peggy Guggenheim
Daily Summary

Venice's Northern Lagoon Exploration: Murano, Burano and Torcello / Peggy Guggenheim Museum

The Venetian lagoon is full of low, green islands of varying size, linked by channels through the shallows. The islands of Murano, Burano and Torcello are custodians of the lagoon's strong heritage. Murano has been the centre of glass blowing for 700 years. See the masters at work transforming sands and oxides into the most beautiful art pieces, and try this ancient practice for yourselves!
Burano is picturesque with its brightly painted houses, and Torcello, the 'Cradle of Venice', houses a millennium-old cathedral with historic mosaics.

Afterwards, explore with fast-tracked entry, Peggy Guggenheim’s former home, one of the most important collections of modern art in Italy.

Day 10: Morning Venetian Gondola Rowing Class and Secret Venice & Food Tour

Morning Venetian Gondola Rowing Class and Secret Venice & Food Tour
Daily Summary

Row Like A Gondolier

In Carneggio, you will meet your guide for your lesson of rowing a-la-veneta on a batelina (a smaller and fast gondola-shaped boat).
Once you get familiar with the rowing at the prow, you’ll have a chance to step on the back and start learning how to be a gondolier, by steering the batelina just by rotating the oar.

Secret Venice & Food Tour

After your Gondola Lesson, visit some of the hidden gems of Venice with your private guide: the university area or Santa Margherita with its open air cafés, the Church of the Frari with the masterpieces of Giovanni Bellini and Titian, and the former pleasure district of Venice, now a quiet and respectable neighbourhood. Learn about the life of the honourable courtesans of the 15th Century. Afterwards, enjoy a foodie tour with tastings of Venetian cicchetti - the local version of tapas and gelato.

Day 11: Train Journey to Milan. Explore the Duomo and Terraces

Introducing Milan
Daily Summary

Take a private water taxi to the station then board a high-speed train to Milan.

Duomo Tickets

Visit the gothic cathedral of the Duomo and its terraces, with queue-skipping entry.

Introducing Milan

Milan is about fashion, food and all things glamorous, proudly presenting the modern face of Italy and luring visitors with its sleek cityscape and cultural riches. Discover the 'alternative' Italy, for the city embodies everything that is chic and sophisticated in Italian culture, far removed from quaint Tuscan villages or warbling gondoliers. Milan is the home of haute couture and haute cuisine, world-class shopping, supreme opera, elegant skyscrapers, tasteful galleries and museums, and spacious piazzas. The proud denizens of this city seem to do everything with style and they know how to have fun: Milan has an energetic nightlife and a sophisticated clubbing scene. Fashion fundis, shopaholics, opera-lovers and anyone who enjoys the finer things in life (and can afford to pay for them) will revel in the city. This is not to say there are no archaeological or historical treasures; those searching out the ancient and historic will find plenty of diversions. Art-lovers are drawn to Milan to see the masterpieces stored in its leading galleries and the piece de resistance, da Vinci's The Last Supper fresco, is in the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Day 12: Visit the Monza Formula One Track

Visit the Monza Formula One Track
Daily Summary

Monza Formula 1 Tour

Pick-up this morning for a trip to the Monza Formula 1 Racetrack (around 50 mins from Milan).

Enjoy a VIP private tour of the Monza Formula 1 Racetrack, then drive a circuit yourself (in your tour vehicle).

Day 13: At Leisure in Milan. Tickets to 'The Last Supper'

At Leisure in Milan. Tickets  to The Last Supper
Daily Summary

Leonardo Last Supper

With Fast-track entrance, view Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece, 'The Last Supper'.

Day 14: Fly from Milan

Daily Summary
  • Meals: B

Transfer to Airport

Return home after an enriching holiday of culture and gastronomy.

Accommodation

Palazzo Scanderberg

Palazzo Scanderberg

Website: Palazzo Scanderberg

Palazzo Scanderbeg is located on a quiet side street in Rome’s historic centre, hidden among the alleys yet within walking distance of the city’s famous sites, such as the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and the Spanish Steps. The property was once owned by a 15th-century nobleman for his own personal use, and although the building has seen a number of phases since then, today it operates as an elegant small hotel, reminiscent of a townhouse, showcasing a mix of contemporary Italian furnishings and art against whitewashed Renaissance-era arches, vaults and beams. There are just less than a dozen spacious and modern suites, with the top-tier suites including luxuries such as private hammams, private terraces and butler service. Whilst there is no in-house restaurant, room service offers light meals and snacks until 11pm. Guests can also find well stocked complimentary minibars in their room. There is a 24-hour concierge department which can assist with in-room massages and personal training sessions as there is no spa or gym on site.

Grand Hotel Minerva

Grand Hotel Minerva

Website: Grand Hotel Minerva

The Grand Hotel Minerva is set within the heart of Florence’s city centre, located between the Pantheon and the Church of ‘Santa Maria Sopra Minerva’. The historic property combines art with modern Italian craftsmanship and offers a variety of room categories including spacious family solutions. Dining options include breakfast in a modernist museum, to lunch in the al fresco restaurant a few feet away from the magnificent cathedral of Santa Maria Novella. But the real draw has to be the incredible rooftop terrace where one can enjoy sunset cocktails and a fine Italian meal overlooking the pool and Florence rooftops, cooked by award-winning chef Tommaso Calonaci.

Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni

Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni

Website: Grand Hotel Majestic Gia Baglioni

The Grand Hotel Majestic "già Baglioni", the oldest and most prestigious hotel in Bologna, sits in the heart of the city on Via Indipendenza, within walking distance of Piazza Maggiore and the famous Due Torri. The property is situated in a Palazzo designed by architect Alfonso Torregiani during the first half of the 18th century and built by order of Cardinal Prospero Lambertini, who later became Pope. The palazzo is in fact, built on top of an ancient Roman road, part of which can be seen within the hotel. Rooms offer a perfect blend of classic Italian style and elegance, with antique furnishings and Murano-glass chandeliers. There is a fantastic Italian restaurant serving delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and an equally stellar wine list.

Palazzo Morosini Degli Spezieri

Palazzo Morosini Degli Spezieri

Website: Palazzo Morosini Degli Spezieri

The Palazzo Morosini degli Spezieri is conveniently placed in the centre of Venice in the lively and central San Polo district, near to the Grand Canal and the ‘Chiesa del Frari’. The Palazzo houses a collection of 9 stunning self-catering apartments, that seamlessly combines modern and antique, balancing the original elegance of the historical building with all the mod-cons you would expect.

ME Milan Il Duca

ME Milan Il Duca

Website: ME Milan Il Duca

The ME Mila Il Duca is a contemporary hotel situated right in the heart of the action on Piazza della Republica, close to the city’s main museums, exclusive boutiques, fashionable hot spots and trendy night clubs. The Porta Nuova financial district and the vibrant Porta Garaibaldo area, home to concept stores and restaurants are both nearby. This urban hotel tells Milan’s story, evoking the design and fashion culture that the city is known and loved for. Stylish interiors, from the wood wall fronts to the wacky imagery, combine with ambient scenting and lighting to provide a warm welcome. The spacious roof terrace is a magnet for locals and tourists alike, showcasing Milan’s spectacular skyline accompanied by laid-back tracks which move into up-tempo beats in the afternoon and evening. There is a fantastic Steak Restaurant, a Radio Restaurant serving international cuisine and the garden patio which serves up light dishes and drinks throughout the day.

Travelling Responsibly

At LiNGER we firmly believe that in travel we can do more to help protect our planet.

We take our responsibilities to the environment, local communities, customers, suppliers, partners and employees very seriously and our intention is to constantly review our policies and strive to make improvements where we can.

We offer the opportunity to Give Back by partaking in a meaningful activity in an area that matters to you or where you may have a skillset.

This could be as simple as a beach clean in Sri Lanka to help protect our oceans or caring for orphaned sloths in a wildlife sanctuary in Costa Rica.

LiNGER longer on a sabbatical and devote time to teaching in a village school in Nicaragua or help with a conservation project researching plant species in the Amazon. LiNGER and Enrich Life through Travel.

Our Responsible Travel Policy can be viewed on our website:

https://linger.co.uk/responsible-travel/


Financial Protection

ATOL Protected Holidays

Many of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected. If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. Please see our booking conditions for information or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to: www.atol.org.uk/ATOLcertificate

Travel Regulation Insolvency Protection

LiNGER Travel Limited is a company committed to customer satisfaction and consumer financial protection. We are therefore pleased to announce that, at no extra cost to you, and in accordance with ''The Package Travel, Package Tours Regulations'' all passengers booking with Linger Travel Limited are fully insured for the initial deposit, and subsequently the balance of monies paid as detailed in your booking confirmation form. The policy will also include repatriation if required, arising from the cancellation or curtailment of your travel arrangements due to the insolvency of Linger Travel Limited.  This protection has been arranged by means of a Trust Account held with Protected Trust Services.

Full details regarding Financial Protection can be viewed at: https://linger.co.uk/financial-protection/. Full details regarding the Package Travel and Linked Travel Arrangements Regulations 2018 can be viewed at: https://linger.co.uk/package-travel-regulations/

Privacy Policy

LiNGER respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal data. This privacy notice will inform you as to how we look after your personal data when you visit our website (regardless of where you visit it from) or when you otherwise provide personal data to us via other means (such as over the telephone) and tell you about your privacy rights and how the law protects you. Full details regarding our Privacy Policy can be viewed at: https://linger.co.uk/privacy-policy/.