12 Day Nonna's Northern Italian Road Trip

• 11 nights in 4-star hotels
• Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 2 dinners
• Private taxi boat transfer in Venice
• Dedicated private transportation throughout
• Fully escorted by an English-speaking tour leader with local guides at key sites
• Sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary

• Montepulciano – Old town visit
• Tuscany – Winery lunch with wine tasting
• Pienza – UNESCO village visit with pecorino cheese tasting
• Siena – Piazza del Campo visit
• Florence – Guided walking tour
• Lucca – Old town visit
• Pisa – Piazza dei Miracoli and Leaning Tower visit
• Cinque Terre – Village exploration by train and boat
• Parma – Prosciutto producer visit and Ham Museum
• Lake Garda – Scenic boat ride from Bardolino to Sirmione
• Verona – Guided walking tour
• Venice – Private taxi boat and guided walking tour
• Ravenna – Guided walking tour with Basilica of San Vitale and Mausoleum of Galla Placidia
• Assisi – Guided walking tour with Basilica of Saint Francis
• Marmore Waterfalls – Waterfall visit

Upgrades 
Not available  

Airport Transfers 
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 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.

Bedding Configuration
Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, but we can not 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 $1,500.00 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.

3- Shared Room with a fellow traveller
In this tour you can opt to share a room with a fellow traveller of the same gender – as specified in your passport - and avoid paying a single supplement.

If you believe you may prevent your travelling companion from enjoying a peaceful night’s rest, please refrain from selecting this option.

You will meet your rooming companion at the beginning of your tour. 

Should you wish to change from a shared room to a solo room, this would be at the cost of the traveller who has requested to change the room type. Changes to room configuration during the tour must be organised by travellers directly with the hotel, subject to availability and additional charges.

This option is not available on additional accommodation booked before or after

Triple Share
Not available

Payment Terms
Secure your trip with a $99.00 deposit per person.

Once we receive your deposit, we will send you an invoice with your remaining balance and payment options.

Starting Point

Your starting hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation, which will be provided approximately 14–30 days before departure, for your confirmed hotel list.

If you need to book pre-tour accommodation independently, we suggest you do this only once you have received your final hotel list for your tour. If you would like to book something sooner, we recommend that you book using a flexible rate that can be cancelled through your chosen third-party provider without penalty.

Travellers will arrive at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. If arriving before standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm, you are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available as there are no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary. The hotel may grant early check-in; however, this is strictly subject to availability and at the hotel’s discretion.

Note: If you need to apply for a tourist visa before departure, we recommend using the details of the suggested hotel on the tour itinerary if you wish to fulfil this before the release of your final tour documentation. Please refer to our visa section for more information on whether or not a visa is required for your destination.

Arrival Details

Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the airport to the hotel will be comfortable and hassle-free.

As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. These must be booked at least 70 days prior to departure.

To make your own way to your hotel from the airport, it is recommended to use taxis booked from an official taxi booking desk at the airport, or alternatively you can use ride share apps such as Uber.

If you’re having any problems finding the hotel, please ring the hotel directly or you can phone our customer support team for on-tour assistance.

Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

Optional Airport Transfers - Transfer Portal

Depending on the package purchased, you may have the option to add airport transfers to your booking and you can do so through your Traveller Hub account. We partner with an online marketplace where travellers can compare and select the transfer of their choice.

Inspiring Vacations acts as an agent on behalf of our transfer service partner and any service is delivered by the provider. Inspiring Vacations cannot be held liable for any loss resulting from the transfer service provided. It is the customer's responsibility to ensure any transfer booked meets the requirements of any other travel arrangements. Likewise, your tour leader or any of our on-ground representatives cannot be held responsible for the service of your transfer nor are they in a position to assist with amending your reservation. Any transfer booking is separate from any other booking with Inspiring Vacations, regardless of whether purchased with regards to the same travel journey.

When you make your transfer service booking, you will receive a confirmation email and this will include your meeting instructions, as well as direct contact details. Please ensure you print and bring this with you as you will need to ensure you can make direct contact with your transfer service provider. 

Welcome Meeting Instructions

You are welcome to arrive at any time on your first day and the day is at your leisure. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to take a stroll through the surrounding neighbourhood or simply unwind after your journey.

Your Tour Leader will host a welcome meeting on the evening of your arrival. Please ensure you are at the hotel in time for this meeting – details will be provided in your final documentation.

The following morning after breakfast, your tour departs Rome heading south. Please ensure you are packed and ready to go.

In Case of Emergency

Although we strive to deliver exceptional holiday experiences, unforeseen circumstances can occasionally arise during travel. If any issues arise during your tour, it is essential to promptly communicate them to your tour leader or local representative so they can take immediate action to address the problem and minimise any negative impact on the remainder of your journey.

If your tour leader or local representative is unable to resolve a situation to your satisfaction, please request that the matter be escalated to their direct manager for further assistance.

When your final tour documentation is released, this will include an emergency contact for our local travel partner while you are on tour. If this is not included in your documentation, you will receive this information on arrival during your welcome meeting.

Finishing Point

Your finishing hotel may differ from the original itinerary. Please refer to your final documentation which will be provided approximately 14–30 days before departure for your confirmed hotel list.

If you need to book additional post-tour accommodation, please do so once you have the final hotel list. We recommend booking a flexible rate that can be changed or cancelled without penalty should there be any unforeseen changes to your booking.

Travellers will depart at various times throughout the day depending on flights booked. Check-out time is generally from 10am–12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments exploring the area, or speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. This service is subject to availability and may incur an additional cost payable directly.

Departure Details

Airport transfers are not included as part of your package. However, we trust that your journey from the hotel to the airport will be comfortable and hassle-free.

As an added service, we do offer airport transfers at an additional cost which can be booked via your Traveller Hub. We recommend you wait until you receive your final documentation to book transfers as your start and end hotels will only be confirmed at this point. Please note that if you are choosing to book an independent airport transfer service, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader cannot be held responsible for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise, nor can they resolve any concerns that you may have with your transfer service.

To make your way to the airport, there are various connections by train or limousine bus. Most destinations offer ride-share services, such as Uber or Didi. If you’re having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.

Tour Suitability

• This tour involves daily coach travel across multiple regions of northern and central Italy. Passengers should be comfortable with extended periods on a coach, with some longer driving days between destinations.
• The Cinque Terre day is largely independent and involves navigating trains, boats, and hilly village terrain. Villages are built on steep hillsides with many steps, narrow lanes, and uneven surfaces. Passengers should be confident managing this type of terrain independently or with limited assistance.
• Venice is a walking city with no vehicle access. The walking tour involves crossing bridges with steps (there are no flat alternatives) and navigating narrow, crowded lanes. Passengers with limited mobility should consider whether this is suitable before booking.
• Several destinations on this tour feature cobblestoned streets, steps, and uneven surfaces, including Montepulciano, Pienza, Siena, Florence, Lucca, Verona, Ravenna, and Assisi. Sturdy, supportive footwear is strongly recommended.
• The Marmore Waterfalls involve walking on potentially wet, uneven paths with some inclines. Appropriate footwear and caution are required.
• Northern and central Italy can experience significant heat during summer months (June to September), particularly in Tuscany, Umbria, and the Veneto. Make sure to evaluate if this season is suitable for your travel plans, and remember to use sufficient sun protection and stay well-hydrated.
• Boat travel in the Cinque Terre and on Lake Garda is weather permitting. If conditions do not allow, alternative arrangements (typically by train or coach) will be made.

   

Visas & Entry Requirements

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your tour and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your tour. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the visa entry requirements for your nationality via our page here: 

https://inspiringvacations-8357211.hs-sites.com/visa-information 

You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date.

We need your passport information to get everything ready for your tour so the information on your booking must match your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends.

Child Policy

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.

Pace

This tour is Lively

Our Lively tours are faster paced typically including full sightseeing days, some early starts, longer driving days and a number of 1 night hotel stays - perfect for those eager to maximize each moment and cover more ground.

The cruise portion of this tour  is leisurely - unpack, unwind, explore and enjoy the onboard facilities and excursions at your own pace. 

Activity and Mobility

3 out of 5 - Balanced

Our Balanced tours involve a moderate level of physical activity and are designed to suit the majority of travellers. Be prepared for walking on varied surfaces, which may include cobblestones, gravel paths, and noticeable inclines common in historic towns and natural areas. You must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating multiple flights of stairs and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

Activity and Mobility Snapshot

Activity level: Moderate to active, with daily walking tours through historic centres, heritage sites, and one largely independent day exploring the Cinque Terre villages.

Typical walking: Around 3–6 km on sightseeing days, with the Cinque Terre day potentially involving more depending on how many villages you choose to explore.

Terrain and key walks

Historic towns and cities: Cobblestoned streets, narrow lanes, and occasional steps in Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, Otranto, Trani, and Anagni. Generally flat within town centers but with uneven surfaces throughout.

Major heritage sites: Matera’s Sassi district involves steep staircases and narrow rock-hewn pathways. Pompeii and Paestum involve walking on ancient, uneven ground with limited shade. Civita is accessed via a pedestrian bridge with steep village paths.

Coastal areas: The Amalfi Coast experience involves boarding ferries and boats. The Riviera dei Cedri excursion is primarily coach-based with short walks at scenic stops.

Mobility and accessibility

Best suited to: Travellers comfortable with moderate to active walking, frequent steps, cobblestones, and some uneven ground at heritage sites. A reasonable level of fitness is required for the Cinque Terre and Venice days in particular.

Opt-out options: Some walking tours can be skipped, with passengers able to remain at the coach, stay at the hotel, or explore independently at a gentler pace. In the Cinque Terre, passengers can choose how many villages to visit. Specific opt-out options should be discussed with your Tour Leader.

Wheelchairs: Vehicles and hotels can accommodate wheelchairs, but several sightseeing locations are not wheelchair accessible (for example Venice, Cinque Terre, Montepulciano, Assisi, Marmore Waterfalls, and the cobblestoned centres of most historic towns on this tour). There are no step-free alternative routes at these sites. Please reach out to Inspiring Vacations directly to discuss wheelchair use.

Hotels, transport and climate

Hotels: All tour hotels are 4-star properties. Most have lifts and many offer accessible rooms, subject to room category and availability. All have adequate power outlets for CPAP machines.

Transport: Private coach is used for the majority of the tour, with regional trains in the Cinque Terre, a private taxi boat in Venice, and a scenic boat ride on Lake Garda. Walking to and from vehicles is generally short, with regular comfort stops on longer drives.

As a general requirement across all of our tours, 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 tour.

Group Size

Minimum: 10 people, Maximum: 24 people

Escorted Style

This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. At key destinations, local expert guides will join the group to provide in-depth knowledge and insight during walking tours and site visits.

Tour Type

Our expertly crafted Small Group Tours take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Unwind in premium accommodations after each day filled with sightseeing alongside your dedicated tour leader, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Airport transfers
• Visas
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities
• Tipping
• Beverages unless stated
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around
While touring northern and central Italy, you will be travelling primarily by private coach. The tour covers a significant amount of ground, travelling through the regions of Lazio, Tuscany, Liguria, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Umbria, and back to Lazio, so some coach journeys will be longer than others. Where applicable, there will be comfort stops along the way where you can freshen up, stretch your legs, use the bathroom, and often purchase refreshments.

In the Cinque Terre, you will travel between villages by regional train and boat. Your Tour Leader will explain the local train system, ticketing, and validation procedures. Boat travel between villages is weather permitting; if conditions do not allow, travel will be by train instead.

In Venice, you will travel by private taxi boat from Tronchetto to St Mark’s Square and return. Venice itself is explored entirely on foot.

On Lake Garda, a scenic boat ride takes you from Bardolino to Sirmione and return.

Italy’s roads, particularly in Tuscany and Liguria, can be narrow and winding in hilly and coastal areas. If you are prone to motion sickness, we recommend coming prepared.

Accommodation Details
This tour features a selection of 4-star hotels throughout northern and central Italy. Each accommodation has been chosen based on location, comfort, and accessibility to the touring itinerary. Our team continuously reviews and updates our selections, incorporating customer feedback to ensure every hotel offers a reliable standard of comfort and convenience.

Please note that hotel standards may vary between larger cities and smaller regional towns. Star ratings reflect local standards and may differ from what you are accustomed to at home.

Packing Essentials

• Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes suitable for cobblestones, steps, and uneven terrain
• Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm weather
• A light jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned coaches and cooler evenings
• A waterproof layer, particularly for coastal and lakeside days
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• A small daypack for excursions
• Modest clothing for visiting churches and religious sites (shoulders and knees covered)
• Swimwear for coastal and lakeside leisure time
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Motion sickness medication if prone to travel sickness (winding roads in Tuscany and Liguria)
• A portable charger for your devices
• An EU power adapter (Type C or Type L plug)

Climate
Northern and central Italy enjoy a varied climate depending on the region and time of year. Summer months (June to September) bring warm to hot temperatures, with inland areas such as Tuscany, Umbria, and the Veneto regularly reaching 30–35°C. Coastal areas along the Ligurian Riviera and Lake Garda benefit from breezes but can still be very warm.

Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) are generally the most comfortable times to travel, with pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower humidity. Evenings can be cooler, particularly in hilltop towns and near the lakes, so a light layer is advisable.

Winter months (December to March) are milder than northern Europe but can bring rain and cooler temperatures, particularly in Tuscany and Umbria. The Ligurian coast tends to remain milder year-round.

We recommend packing layers, using adequate sun protection, and staying well-hydrated, particularly during the warmer months. Weather conditions can vary between coastal, lakeside, and inland areas, so it’s worth being prepared for temperature changes throughout the day.

Currency and ATMs
The official currency of Italy is the Euro (€). ATMs (known locally as “Bancomat”) are widely available in cities and larger towns, and most accept international debit and credit cards. Visa and Mastercard are broadly accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in tourist areas.

However, smaller towns, rural areas, and local markets may prefer or only accept cash. It’s essential to carry some cash on hand for smaller purchases, tips, and independent meals. We recommend withdrawing Euros from ATMs as needed rather than exchanging large amounts of currency before departure.

Please notify your bank of your travel dates and destinations before departure to avoid any issues with card transactions abroad.

Food and Allergies
Northern and central Italian cuisine varies richly by region. Tuscany is known for its rustic simplicity: ribollita (bread soup), bistecca alla fiorentina, and world-class wines. Liguria brings pesto, focaccia, and fresh seafood. Emilia-Romagna is the home of Parmigiano Reggiano, prosciutto di Parma, tortellini, and rich ragù sauces. The Veneto offers risotto, polenta, and cicchetti (small bites). Umbria is celebrated for its truffles, cured meats, and hearty lentil dishes.

For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian options are generally plentiful, as many traditional dishes are naturally plant-based. Gluten-free options are increasingly available, though it’s important to communicate your requirements clearly, particularly in smaller establishments. Coeliac awareness is relatively high in Italy, and many restaurants can accommodate requests with advance notice.

While travelling with Inspiring Vacations you’ll enjoy iconic sightseeing, as well as experience the vast array of culinary offerings across northern and central Italy. While many meals will be eaten together with your group, not all meals are included in your tour which gives you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. If you have dietary requirements and/or food allergies, please let our Customer Support Team know before departure. Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader will also be able to give suggestions on which restaurants to try during your tour. For those with a particular food allergy, your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in the dishes consumed. It is, however, still your responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any problematic ingredients.

Travellers should exercise caution with street food to avoid stomach issues; choose vendors with good hygiene practices and eat freshly prepared dishes. Italy’s culinary scene is diverse and rich, offering an unforgettable gastronomic journey for every traveller.

Local Customs
Travellers to Italy will find a warm and welcoming culture, with a few local customs worth being aware of. Italians greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks among friends. A polite “Buongiorno” (good morning) or “Buonasera” (good evening) goes a long way in shops, restaurants, and hotels.

When visiting churches and religious sites, modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered. This is particularly important at the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi and churches in Florence, Siena, Ravenna, and Venice. Avoid wearing hats inside churches as a sign of respect.

Dining culture in Italy is relaxed and social. Lunch is traditionally the main meal of the day, and dinner is typically served later than in Australia, often from 8pm onwards. Tipping is not obligatory in Italy, but it is appreciated. A small tip of a few euros for good service is customary.

Italians take great pride in their local produce and traditions. Showing an interest in and respect for local food, wine, and cultural practices will be warmly received.

Dress Code
When visiting Italy, lightweight and breathable clothing is ideal for the warm climate. Casual attire is generally acceptable in most settings, though smart-casual dress may be expected at some hotel restaurants, particularly at dinner.

When visiting churches, cathedrals, and religious sites, modest dress is required: shoulders and knees must be covered for both men and women. This is strictly enforced at major basilicas, including in Assisi and Venice. It is advisable to carry a scarf or light cover-up for this purpose. Avoid beachwear outside of coastal resort areas.

Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are essential for the cobblestoned streets, steps, and uneven terrain at many of the destinations on this tour.

Responsible Dining
Avoid consuming endangered species or items harvested unsustainably. Be respectful of local customs and food practices, and always tip fairly to support local workers. Responsible dining helps protect the environment and promotes the well-being of local communities.

Peak Travel Times
Peak travel times in northern and central Italy are primarily influenced by the warm Mediterranean climate, summer holidays, and major cultural events. The most popular time to visit is from June to September, when the weather is warmest. July and August are the busiest months, coinciding with Italian domestic holidays (Ferragosto on 15 August is a major national holiday), and popular destinations such as Florence, Venice, the Cinque Terre, and Lake Garda can be significantly more crowded.

The shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October offer a more relaxed experience, with pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and generally better availability at hotels and restaurants.

Major cultural events, such as the Venice Carnival (February), the Palio horse race in Siena (July and August), and the Verona Opera Festival (June to September), also attract large numbers of visitors. Easter week brings increased crowds to religious sites, particularly in Assisi, Florence, and Rome.

Apps to Download
Some useful apps you may want to consider downloading before your tour include Google Translate, the lens function is especially useful when wanting to read product labels, signs, and menus. Google Maps with offline maps downloaded is great for easy navigation without being reliant on wifi. We also recommend downloading WhatsApp before you leave and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour.

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:

• Your booking is confirmed
• Your departure date is within 11 months
• You  have completed your passenger detail form

Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.