On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible. The choice is yours.
This tour is categorised as 1 out of 5
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. Options include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Make the most of your cruise and travel independently, with everything organised for you. Your international flights, pre-cruise stay, and cruise are organised so all you have to do is relax and enjoy your time at sea. Of course, there is the option of extending your tour if you don’t want to head straight to the airport upon disembarkation.
✓ Independent exploration of Italy by train (Days 1-7) and a Mediterranean cruise with MSC Cruises (Days 7-14 )
✓ Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary
✓ 6 nights in central, 3 star accommodation (upgrade to 4 star accommodation available)
✓ 7 nights aboard the prestigious MSC Lirica cruise ship
✓ Breakfast daily, plus 6 lunches and 7 dinners
✓ Airport transfers included on the first day
✓ Second Class high speed rail tickets as per itinerary (upgrade to First Class available)
✓ 7 Day cooling off period
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
Set off on an unforgettable European adventure by rail and sea. Explore Italy's iconic cities, ticking off key landmarks as you take in breathtaking cathedrals, ancient ruins, and outstanding art museums. Board a Mediterranean cruise to continue your European adventure and uncover a breathtaking natural scenery along with captivating historical sites.
Welcome to Rome! Your private transfer is ready to take you to your hotel.
Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Whether you’re booked on the 3 star or 4 star package, you will enjoy hotels located in the heart of the city with close proximity to the train station and all the sights that Rome has to offer.
Please note - the rest of the itinerary is unescorted, with local guides joining you for day tours along the way. You will make your way between destinations.
Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
Please note - if you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
Guests booked on the 4* upgraded package will be accommodated at Hotel Gambrinus or similar
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before joining a guided tour of the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. You will discover the history of ancient Rome and the gladiators' fights that took place there. To get an in-depth view, add an optional tour.
Guests booked on the 4* upgraded package will be accommodated at Hotel Gambrinus or similar
Discover imperial and early Christian Rome and millennia of history as you descend into the Eternal city's underground burial chambers, its long winding catacombs and its crypts. This is the one and only tour that takes you to crypts and catacombs from different historical eras, in various locations and with varying styles. Much of what Rome has to offer is buried underground-and through this tour, our guests can discover the underside of Rome through three select sites--The Cappuccini Crypt (chapel decorated entirely by human bones), Domitilla Catacombs (or San Callisto or San Sebastiano) and the Basilica of San Nicola in Carcere.
(Operates daily)
You'll be guided by our seasoned professional pizzaiolo chef who will lead you through the intricate art of crafting the perfect dough, selecting the freshest toppings, mastering the assembly and baking techniques that characterise the beloved Roman-style pizza. While your meticulously prepared dough rests, you'll discover the delightful world of gelato. Learn the intricate mixture of ingredients that come together to achieve the velvety texture and exquisite taste that define this iconic Italian delicacy. Our talented chef will captivate your senses as they present a live demonstration of the art of gelato-making. Upon the conclusion of your culinary escapade, you'll depart armed with more than just memories. A curated booklet of recipes will accompany you, granting you to recreate the magic of Italy's most cherished culinary treasures within the comfort of your home kitchen. Armed with the knowledge you've acquired and the recipes you've mastered, you'll confidently set forth to share the flavours of Italy with friends and family, creating lasting memories of your own.
(Operates daily)
After breakfast at the hotel, you will head to Rome Termini station to board the high-speed train to Florence; the journey takes about 1.5 hours. You are free to explore the city and its numerous impressive museums.
If exploring Florence has worked up an appetite, consider indulging in a long dinner at a local restaurant.
Guests booked on the 4* upgraded package will be accommodated at Hotel Executive or similar
Today you will discover two thousand years of history of the cradle of the Renaissance through the eyes of an expert local guide, who will take you in an unforgettable journey to discover the most beautiful squares and monuments of Florence. With this half day tour, you will admire with your own eyes the sites and monuments that have made Florence one of the most visited destinations in the world.
On this small group excursion you will meet one of our famous and charismatic chefs and learn how to cook a nice Tuscan meal in the heart of Florence! First, you will go shopping with the chefs at the central market, picking up the ingredients for your lunch. You will meet the butchers, the bakers, and the farmers selling vegetables from their gardens. You will learn how to distinguish the highest quality ingredients. Next, enjoy a delicious tasting of typical products and you will start putting your hands on the ingredients to create your own meal, driven by the expert guidance of our Chefs. Your menu may slightly vary depending on the season and the fresh ingredients available, but will usually be made of bruschetta, different kinds of fresh home-made pasta from scratch (i.e. tagliatelle and ravioli), sauces for the pasta, and a dessert - accompanied by two glasses of a selection of Chianti wine. A booklet with recipes will let you cook for your friends once you get back home.
Duration: approx. 5 hours.
Start time: 9am.
Maximum group size: 20.
Meeting point:Via Panicale, 43/r, 50123 Firenze, close to Florence Central Market, 15 minutes prior to departure
Please note that when the Central Market is closed (on Sundays and bank holidays) a special introduction and extra tastings at the cooking class location will substitute instead.
Explore the oldest art gallery in the world! This is a unique experience for those of you who want to immerse yourself in Florence’s artistic background and history. You will be guided through the huge rooms and bright hallways to stop in front of and admire such classics as Botticelli’s Birth of Venus, Leonardo’s The Annunciation and Michelangelo’s Tondo Doni… to name but a few. At the end of the guided tour you can remain in the Uffizi Gallery until closing time.
Duration: approx. 2 hours.
Start time: 8:30am.
Maximum group size: 10.
Meeting point: Ciao Florence office - via Cavour 18,15 minutes prior to the start of the tour.
Do not operate on Mondays.
After breakfast at the hotel, board the high-speed train to Venice S. Lucia station. The journey takes just over 2 hours. After arriving, check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, you’ll explore Venice by water in a quintessential experience, with a 30 minute shared gondola ride. Commentary is available via an app on your mobile phone, to add to the experience.
Before dinner in Venice, it is traditional to have an aperitif based on “cichéti” (small snacks) in one of the many “bacari” (taverns) scattered along the “calli” (that is what the Venetian streets are called): a must experience to try!
Guests booked on the 4* upgraded package will be accommodated at the Carlton Grand Canal or similar
Today you are free to explore the canals or surrounding islands of Venice on your own. Get lost wandering the winding canals, shop at the many boutiques or enjoy a gelato in one of the many piazza’s.
Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional group tour below.
This is a walk to admire the most characteristic and important places for the history of Venice from the exterior - an essential tour for the understanding of Venice. A qualified and experienced guide will take you to the main sites which includes Piazza San Marco, Basilica San Marco, Palazzo Ducale (Doge's Palace), Bell Tower, Clock Tower and Procuratie. Continue to Santa Maria Formosa - history and anecdotes related to this wonderful and characteristic square. Campo San Giovanni e Paolo - the "Pantheon" of Venice, the Great School of Charity, the Captains of fortune. Marco Polo’s House and Malibran Theater - anecdotes and distant and recent history intersect in this beautiful corner of Venice. Return to San Marco through the Mercerie, a vital connection between Rialto and San Marco, and the main shopping street.
(Operates daily)
This panoramic city tour will lead you to the discovery of the Venetian Lagoon and of its origins through a boat excursion that will stop in the three most important islands of the city: Murano, Burano and Torcello. On board, an expert hostess will tell you the story of each island, revealing their peculiarities and traditions. In Murano, you will visit an historical glassblowing factory, where you will be shown how they still work the typical glass that made Venice famous all over the world. In Burano, the island known for its colorful houses, you will admire the famous hand-made laces. Last stop is Torcello, where you will witness the vestiges of the first settlements of the inhabitants of Venice.
(Operates daily)
Enjoy your morning and afternoon at leisure before embarking on board the MSC Lirica at approximately 4pm.
MSC Lirica offers a unique cruise experience focused on elegance, comfort, and exceptional hospitality, staying true to the MSC Cruises tradition. The grand internal views from the foyer and the unobstructed ocean vistas through the lounges' floor-to-ceiling windows enhance a feeling of relaxed openness, while a selection of cozy lounges adds to the inviting atmosphere.
Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled along Montenegro’s Adriatic coast and surrounded by dramatic mountains, stands out as one of the most atmospheric medieval towns in the region.
Thise, features winding ancient streets and charming squares. Visit the 12th-century Cathedral of St. Tryphon, known for its Baroque bell towers, Romanesque interior, and Byzantine-style frescoes. On the return to port, be sure to admire Kotor’s impressive fortifications, including ancient citadels, gates, and ramparts.
MSC Cruise offers plenty of exciting excursions for you. You can also enjoy your day freely by discovering the surroundings on your own or enjoy the facilities on the ship.
Special Information:
Approx. arrival time: 2.30pm
Approx. departure time: 8.30pm
Today, take the time to relax as we sail towards Mykonos. Enjoy the amenities offered on board: swimming pools, cinema screen or unwind at the MSC Aurea Spa wellness.
Mykonos, a jewel of the Cyclades archipelago, attracts visitors from around the globe. Stroll through its narrow streets lined with charming whitewashed houses, part of a labyrinth designed to deter pirates! Don’t miss the iconic Venetian windmills from the 16th century, once essential for grinding wheat. See brilliant beaches and turquoise waters.
MSC Cruise offers plenty of exciting excursions for you. You can also enjoy your day freely by discovering the surroundings on your own or enjoy the facilities on the ship.
Special Information:
Approx. arrival time: 9am
Approx. departure time: 2am
Santorini was shaped by the remnants of a volcanic caldera, evident in its rugged landscape. Renowned for its sheer cliffs, red beach, and whitewashed houses that create a stunning contrast against the deep blue Aegean Sea, Santorini also boasts ancient archaeological sites, natural hot springs for swimming, and picturesque wineries. Capture the iconic blue-domed churches and take in the breathtaking views. Afterward, wander through charming shops and cafes.
MSC Cruise offers plenty of exciting excursions for you. You can also enjoy your day freely by discovering the surroundings on your own or enjoy the facilities on the ship.
Special Information:
Approx. arrival time: 7.30am
Approx. departure time: 6pm
Take the time to relax as we sail towards Ancona. Enjoy the amenities offered on board: swimming pools, cinema screen or unwind at the MSC Aurea Spa wellness.
Ancona, the vibrant capital of Italy’s scenic Marche region, offers stunning views of the sparkling Adriatic Sea. The city is rich with historical landmarks, including Roman ruins, the Cathedral of Saint Ciriaco, and the Trajan Arch, an iconic Turkish marble monument from 114 A.D. Inland, the walled city of Urbino shines as a gem of the Italian Renaissance. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Urbino is one of Italy’s most well-preserved medieval centers, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
MSC Cruise offers plenty of exciting excursions for you. You can also enjoy your day freely by discovering the surroundings on your own or enjoy the facilities on the ship.
Special Information:
Approx. arrival time: 1pm
Approx. departure time: 8pm
It’s time to disembark today at around 7am.
Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
✓ Independent exploration of Italy by train (Days 1-7) and a Mediterranean cruise with MSC Cruises (Days 7-14 )
✓Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary
✓ 6 nights in central, 3 star accommodation (upgrade to 4 star accommodation available)
✓ 7 nights aboard the prestigious MSC Lirica cruise ship
✓ Breakfast daily, plus 6 lunches and 7 dinners
✓ Airport transfers included on the first day
✓ Second Class high speed rail tickets as per itinerary (upgrade to First Class available)
✓ Port Taxes and Hotel Service charges
✓ 7 Day cooling off period
MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises has a rich history rooted in a deep love for the sea, spanning across multiple generations. The company is committed to sharing this passion with future generations, making each cruise a remarkable journey of exploration and unforgettable experiences for every guest. With a focus on enrichment and immersion, MSC Cruises provides a safe and enjoyable cruise experience. Guests can indulge in international dining options, delight in world-class entertainment, partake in award-winning family programs, and experience the latest user-friendly technology available onboard. MSC Cruises strives to create cherished memories and ensure that each guest's voyage is filled with discovery, excitement, and lasting emotions.
Please click HERE to learn more about the cruise ship.
MSC Lirica Cabin Inclusions & Upgrades
Please note, MSC will assign your cabin number. Cabin will be attributed 40 days before your cruise and can change at any time up until embarkation.
Interior (IB or IM1) is included as part of your package price.
Oceanview (OB, OM1 or OM2) FROM $214 per person. Single price on application.
Exterior Balcony (BB or BM1) FROM $719 per person. Single price on application.
Cabin Upgrades and prices are subject to availability upon booking. Please select this option upon booking to indicate your upgrade preference. Once your upgrade has been confirmed, the additional amount will be added to your invoice and payable with your final payment.
First Class rail upgrade from $69 per person.
Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your itinerary to 1st class rail on all sectors.
With rows of 3 seats instead of 4, extra space for your legs, a wider seat and backrest, First Class has been designed for your comfort and serenity.
Please note the seat reservation is not available on First Class on the following train rides: Florence - La Spezia / La Spezia - Milan / Milan - Como.
4-Star hotel upgrade from $219 per person, twin share (single price on application).
Select this supplement if you would like to upgrade your hotel stays to 4*.
This is a land only package.
This package does not include international airfares. If you would like to add airfares to your booking our flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub. The flight portal will allow you to search for all available airfares to your destination. The function works like most general flight search engines allowing you to select your preferred airline, book different cabin classes (eg. Business class) and view flight durations and transit times to your destination.
The flight portal will be available via your Traveller Hub once the following criteria has been met:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
It is the traveler's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return. Visas may be required for your destination. For further visa information, CLICK HERE.
Some of our packages will include airport transfers in either one or both directions when arriving or departing from your destination. To know if transfers are included please view the ‘inclusions’ section of your selected package. If airport transfers are stated, transfers will be included as advised.
If transfers are not included, we also offer the option to book your airport transfers using our online portal. Access to this portal is available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed. Transfers are readily available and do not need to be booked until your final hotel list has been confirmed. Once you have made a transfer booking, please refer to your confirmation email for all transfer details including a local contact number for the transfer company.
If you book pre and/or post-tour accommodation on your own arrangement, and the tour includes transfers, note that these will be forfeited. The transfers are only provided in line with the tour dates and pre and/or post-tour accommodation purchased through Inspiring Vacations when available.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a ”1”
1 - Leisurely
Explore at your own pace: Discover your destination at your own pace with our self-guided itinerary. The itinerary may include driving, rail, or cruising (excluding expeditions). Enjoy included guided day trips for sightseeing as outlined in your itinerary.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. Tipping is not compulsory on your trip, but they can make a big difference to locals employed in the tourism industry. If you feel that your guide and driver have done an impeccable job, you can choose to give a gratuity, but this is entirely your decision.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can’t guarantee your request will be available at all properties.
Single travellers
When booking this tour, solo travellers will be presented with two options:
1 - Single Supplement
By paying an additional $2,045.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your own room throughout the entire trip.
2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with him/her and avoid paying a single supplement.
You and your friend can create a unique booking each. Creating a unique booking, gives each of you the flexibility of making different travel arrangements (such adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), make separate payments and have individual access to our Traveller’s Hub
During the purchase path, you will need to provide your friend’s booking ID (if known) or at a minimum, your friend’s full name.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
Group Size
Minimum two passengers. For tours that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Style
To meet the needs of various types of travelers, we choose to operate various types of tours, and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Venice has implemented an access fee charged to day trip visitors who are not staying overnight in the municipality of Venice, during specific high season dates. The calendar of dates is available here.
If you are staying in an accommodation in the municipality of Venice, then you are exempt from this fee. However, to avoid paying the fee you must register for an exemption by filling out an exemption request here. The exemption form will provide you with a QR code you can show on your phone.
If required for your travel dates, you may pre-book once you have received your final documents confirming your hotel. The exemption must be completed before entering the city, but can be done while traveling.
All participants must be in good physical condition to fully engage in this journey. For the safety and welfare of yourself and fellow travellers, if you are feeling unwell prior to departure, we advise staying home and contacting us to arrange alternate plans.
Prior to selecting your trip, carefully review the itinerary to assess your ability to comfortably manage our travel style. Please be aware that if, based on evaluation by our leader or local representative, a participant is deemed unable to safely complete the itinerary, we retain the right to exclude them from all or part of the trip without reimbursement.
It is advisable to consult your physician for current medical travel advisories and any required vaccinations before embarking. We recommend carrying a first aid kit and any necessary medications in their original packaging, as they may not be readily available during travel. For those carrying medication, it's essential to check your government's foreign travel guidelines for local restrictions or regulations.
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 70 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
Click HERE for more information on weather in Italy.
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