ESCORTED SMALL GROUP TOUR
Trip Length: 11 days
Trip Dates:
Oct 24 – Nov 3, 2012
9 nights in Deluxe hotels | 12 meals
Rates: $5095 double / $6395 single
International Airfare is additional
| USA | ||
| Arrive Naples | ||
| Naples | ||
| Naples / Pompeii / Sorrento | ||
| Sorrento / The Amalfi Coast | ||
| Sorrento / Capri | ||
| Capri | ||
| Capri / Rome | ||
| Rome | ||
| Rome | ||
| Rome / USA |
Depart the USA on any regularly scheduled flight to Naples, Italy.
THU, OCT 25 - ARRIVE NAPLES
Your flight will most likely connect in Rome or Milan and arrive Naples midday. Upon arrival you will have a private transfer from Naples Airport to the Naples hotel, Hotel Santa Lucia, an this historic hotel that offer an old-fashioned atmosphere mixed with elegant decor.
Remainder of the day is at leisure to relax after the flight.
Hotel: Grand Santa Lucia – 4*
Room: Standard
Meals: None
Stretching along the shores of a beautiful bay, Naples has been a coveted port town since it was founded by the ancient Greeks. The many empires that have ruled this city have each left a treasure trove of historic sites. During our tour, discover the beauty of Naples, also known as the meeting point of two cultures: middle European and the oriental. The Archeological Museum occupies a group of 16th-century buildings originally intended to house the royal cavalry and then became the seat of the university from 1610 to 1777. The collections comprise mainly works of art belonging to the Farnese family and the treasures discovered at Pompeii & Herculaneum. It is one of the richest museums in the world for Greco-Roman antiquities. Of special note is the Roman pornographic section (the secret cabinet) which will also be visited. Continue then with a panoramic drive through town to stop at the imposing Piazza Plebiscito. See the exterior of the Royal Palace whose facade is adorned with Greek, Roman, Gothic, Byzantine, Norman, Spanish, Bourbon and Italian statues. Also see the majestic “Teatro San Carlo” built under Charles of Bourbon in 1737. It is one of the most famous Opera Houses in the world. On the Piazza Municipio see the huge and imposing “Maschio Angioino” castle.
The afternoon is at leisure for personal exploration. This evening, join fellow travelers for a “when in Naples…” welcome dinner featuring Neapolitan pizza!
Hotel: Grand Santa Lucia – 4*
Room: Standard
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Encounter a city frozen in time—remarkable Pompeii. The excavations of this former seaside resort have yielded one of the largest sources of information on the daily life of ancient Romans. This ancient town was completely buried by the ashes of the eruptions of Vesuvius in the year 79 A.D., one of the most disastrous volcanic eruptions of all times. The extensive ruins provide first class evidence of the ancient way of life. Our guided visit will highlight the advanced building concepts, decorations, paintings and the city planning and finally the Villa of Mysteries, a stately home almost entirely restored to its former glory.
After lunch, continue to Sorrento. Surrounded by hills and shielded from the Mediterranean by perpendicular cliffs that plunge directly into the water, Sorrento is the centerpiece of the Amalfi Coast. It is also famous for limoncello, a sweet lemon liqueur made from the profusion of lemon trees growing up the steep cliffs along the entire coast.
Check into the Bellevue Syrene Hotel, a Relais & Chateaux property.
Hotel Bellevue Syrene – 5*
Room: Standard
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
This morning we will drive along the Amalfi Coast, one of Europe’s most dramatic shorelines. See the brightly colored houses set on towering cliffs above the sea, and the houses in the town of Amalfi built between the 10th and 13th centuries. Amalfi, a charming fishing village gives its name to the homonymous coast. This little town of tall white houses facing the sea claims a stunning church, the Cathedral of St. Andrews, founded in the 9th century and containing the Saint’s relics. It is an architectural blend of Romanesque and Arab styles. Then it’s on to Ravello, one of the loveliest resorts along the Amalfi Drive. It has attracted artists, writers, and celebrities for years (Richard Wagner, Greta Garbo, André Gide, and even D. H. Lawrence, who wrote Lady Chatterley's Lover here). Ravello's reigning celebrity at the moment is Gore Vidal, who purchased a villa here as a writing retreat. William Styron set his novel Set This House on Fire here. Boccaccio dedicated part of the Decameron to Ravello, and John Huston used it as a location for his film Beat the Devil, with Bogie.
Visit its famous Villa Rufolo, the former residence of several popes. The Moorish-influenced architecture evokes Granada's Alhambra, and the large tower was built in what's known as the "Norman-Sicilian" style. You can walk through the flower gardens leading to lookout points over the memorable coastline and offering perhaps the best view of all. Lunch today is at a typical local restaurant – where you’ll get a real taste of Italy with delightful homemade dishes. Return to the hotel for overnight.
Hotel: Bellevue Syrene - 5*
Room: Standard
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
After breakfast we depart our hotel to Sorrento pier for a Jet foil ride to the Island of Capri. Italy's most famous island, Capri is a dramatic rugged mountain soaring out of the sea at the tip of the Sorrento peninsula. A haunt for eccentric characters since antiquity (Roman emperor Tiberius had his villa of pleasures, the Villa Jovis, here), Capri has been a favorite retreat of artists, movie stars, and other VIPs in modern times. The island is indeed spectacular, with postcard-worthy soaring cliffs, surrounded by a deep-blue sea. Besides being a choice resort for VIPs and wannabes, it is also a popular gay destination. Upon arrival, we take the cable car at Marina Grande to downtown and from the famous “Piazzetta” will walk to the hotel. After check in, the remainder of the day is at leisure to explore the town on your own.
Hotel: La Scalinatella Hotel – 5*
Room: Standard
Meals: Breakfast
Favored by the wealthy since the Hellenic age, the remarkable island of Capri is known for its fascinating geography as well as its ancient ruins. During our walking tour, we will see the Gardens of Augustus, the magnificent terraced park where trees and flowers grow in profusion. From there we will admire the beautiful Certosa di San Giacomo (St. James’ Chartreuse), the old Chartusian Monastery founded in 1371 whose sober and monumental style is a fine example of Capri’s medieval and monastic architecture. The ”Piazza Umberto I”, better known as the “Piazzetta” (small square), is the island’s social center and a major tourist attraction with its charming outdoor cafes frequented by a variety of eccentrics and celebrities, so many that each chair should have an historic plaque on it! Continue on a scenic 20 minute drive to reach the heights of Anacapri, lying at 902 feet above the sea level. It is the island’s second urban center, formerly known as the upper citadel. It was linked to the Marina Grande by the “Scala Fenicia” (the Phoenician Stairway) Anacapri began to experience any form of real urban development only from the 16th century onwards. Proceed through Via Axel Munthe, bordered by traditional craft stores and sumptuous villas, to reach the Swedish doctor’s residence and magnificent gardens. Axel Munthe arrived in Capri in 1876 and bought the ruins of the chapel of San Michele and a farm which he later transformed into this white building. The villa is a curious patchwork of styles, with loggias, terraces and pergolas filled with statues and works of art. The interior is furnished with an incongruous mixture of 18th century antique pieces. Overnight in Capri.
Hotel: Hotel La Scalinatella – 5*
Room: Standard
Meals: Breakfast
WED, OCT 31 — CAPRI – ROME
Depart Capri by jet foil this morning to Naples. In first-class accommodations, travel aboard a high-speed train which will take us from Naples to Rome. Check in to the lovely Rose Garden Palace Hotel, located off the famous Via Veneto. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore this amazing city.
Hotel Rose Garden Palace - 4*
Room: Standard
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, we depart on a private half day tour of Ancient Rome. Marvel at the splendor of the Eternal City by discovering the testimonials of the grandeur of the Roman Empire, evident everywhere in Rome. We will see the Colosseum, a masterpiece of classical architecture dating back to the 1st century A.D. This enormous arena once sat 80,000 spectators to watch gladiators in combat, Christians pitted against lions, and even monumental naval battles. On the side of the Colosseum is the imposing Arch of Constantine erected to commemorate Constantine’s victory over Maxentius. See then the Arch of Titus leading to the Roman Forum, the religious, political and commercial centre of the Roman Empire. Continue on to the historical center to see the Pantheon one of the most impressive monuments in Rome and the best preserved of all ancient buildings. End at Piazza Navona, a marvel of light and sculpture.
But for the true flavor of Rome, we make time to linger over a glass of Chianti wine. Visit its fountains in the moonlight. And check out the nightlife if you wish. These experiences are as much a part of the city as the Roman Forum.
Hotel: Rose Garden Palace - 4*
Room: Standard
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a complete day at leisure to explore on your own. Optional tours will be offered, including a visit the St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. This evening we enjoy a farewell dinner to celebrate a great trip.
Hotel: Rose Garden Palace - 4*
Room: Standard
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
SAT, NOV 03 — ROME – USA
Breakfast at the hotel. Private transfer service from the hotel to Rome Airport for departure flights back to the USA.
Meals: Breakfast
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This historic hotel offers an old-fashioned atmosphere mixed with elegant decor. The professional service is impeccable, and the public spaces are grand -- if a bit dusty and worn in places -- graced by curving staircases, marble floors, and Murano chandeliers. Guest rooms are good size, with wood or carpet floors, period or reproduction furniture, marble bathrooms, and great views over the Castel dell'Ovo and the Bay. |
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A Relais & Chateau, five-star hotel steep on the sea, with terraces overlooking the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius in the background, the Bellevue Syrene is among the most renowned hotels in Sorrento. The Bellevue Syrene lies in a place of eternal, timeless beauty. Being also a patrician home that became a private villa, Sorrento 5-star Bellevue Syrene hotel offers a modern hospitality whose roots in tradition have charmed men of letters, artists and heads of state. |
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Ever since it's opening, in the 1950's, the "Bella Scalinatella" , as repeat clients fondly call it, has been the preferred haven of those eager to experience the effortless elegance and the unique lifestyle of Capri. Thirty bedrooms in which dreams invariably come true. An intimate boutique hotel, managed by the Morgano family, owners of all of the island's most beautiful hotels. |
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The Rose Garden Palace is where style, hospitality and comfort come together in Rome. Guests enjoy unparalleled service in elegant and peaceful surroundings, in the heart of one of the Eternal City’s most beautiful areas. The Rose Garden Palace is located in a beautifully restored historical building, just off Via Veneto. The rooms are spacious, elegant and beautiful, with gracious amenities and all the comforts of home. Step outside, and you’ll find the best shopping, dining and sightseeing in Rome all within easy walking distance. |
$5095 |
$6395 |
- 2 nights in Naples at the 4* Grand Santa Lucia; 2 nights in Sorrento at the 5* Bellevue Syrene Hotel; 2 nights at the 5* La Scalinatella Hotel; 3 nights at the 4* Rose Garden Palace Hotel. Breakfast daily. Standard room categories. (Please inquire about upgrades.)
- Private transfer service from Naples Airport to Naples hotel
- Half day private tour of Naples to include transportation, English speaking guide and entrance fee to Archeological Museum
- Welcome Dinner - Neapolitan specialties
- Private transfer Naples Hotel/Sorrento via Pompeii to include English speaking escort assistance, local guide in Pompeii and entrance to Pompeii excavation
- 3 course set menu luncheon at typical local restaurant in Pompeii to include beverages (½ bottle wine, ½ bottle mineral water and coffee)
- Private full day tour of Amalfi Drive to include transportation, English speaking guide and entrance fees to Amalfi cloister and Villa Rufolo in Ravello
- 3 course set menu lunch at typical local restaurant in either Amalfi or Ravello to include beverages (½ bottle wine, ½ bottle mineral water and coffee)
- Private transfer service from Sorrento hotel to Sorrento pier to include transportation and English speaking assistance
- Jet foil ticket Sorrento/Capri and luggage storage on board
- Luggage handling from Capri pier to Capri hotel
- Cable car ticket Marina Grande Pier/Capri downtown
- Private half day tour of Capri to include minivan transportation and English speaking guide
Cable car ticket Capri downtown/Marina Grande pier - Luggage handling from Capri hotel to Capri pier
- Jet foil Capri/Naples and luggage storage on board
- Private transfer service from Naples pier to Naples Rail Station to include transportation, English speaking assistance and luggage handling at rail station
- First class AV Eurostar Train Ticket Naples/Rome
- Private transfer service from Rome Rail Station to Rome Hotel to include transportation, English speaking assistance and luggage handling
- Private half day tour of Ancient Rome to include private transportation, English speaking guide and entrance fee to Colosseum & Roman Forum
- Farewell dinner in Rome
- Private transfer service from Rome Hotel to Rome Airport to include transportation, English speaking assistance and luggage handling
- A Coda Tour Manager based on 8 travelers
PROGRAM EXLCUDES:
International airfare; Meals not mentioned in the itinerary; Drinks with meals other than what is listed in the inclusions; Trip Cancellation & Interruption insurance; Gratuities to guides and drivers; Items of a personal nature.
