20 Day Nonna's Southern Italian Road Trip with Malta

• 19 nights in 4-star hotels
• Breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 5 dinners
• Internal flight from Rome to Malta
• Arrival airport transfer in Malta
• Private coach and air-conditioned transport throughout
• Return ferry crossings between the islands of Malta and Gozo
• Local experiences including a trabocco dinner, olive oil and wine tastings, a Gozo wine tasting and a Maltese cheese making experience
• Fully escorted, with a tour leader throughout Italy and a licensed local guide in Malta
• Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary

• Sulmona – Confetti Museum visit
• Costa dei Trabocchi – Dinner on a traditional trabocco
• Trani – Harbour and waterfront visit
• Alberobello – UNESCO World Heritage trulli district
• Ostuni – Old town visit
• Puglia – Olive oil tasting at a local mill
• Lecce – Guided Baroque city walking tour
• Lecce – Ceramics and pottery workshop
• Otranto – Old town visit
• Matera – Guided Sassi walking tour
• Civita – Guided Arbëreshë village tour and pasta demonstration
• Calabria – Regional wine and produce tasting at a local farm
• Riviera dei Cedri – Half-day coastal excursion
• Campania – Buffalo mozzarella farm visit and tasting
• Paestum – Guided ancient Greek archaeological site tour
• Amalfi Coast – Ferry and coastal boat tour including Positano
• Pompeii – Guided archaeological site tour
• Anagni – Villa Papale visit
• Gozo – Dream of Horses farm visit
• Gozo – Wine tasting experience
• Gozo – Qbajjar salt pans
• Gozo – Ta’ Pinu Basilica
• Gozo – Dwejra and Fungus Rock
• Gozo – The Citadella, Victoria
• Malta – Popeye Village photo stop
• Valletta – Guided walking tour
• Valletta – Upper Barrakka Gardens
• Valletta – St John’s Co-Cathedral
• Valletta – The Malta Experience
• Mosta – Mosta Rotunda
• Dingli – Dingli Cliffs
• Rabat – Buskett Gardens
• Mdina – Guided walking tour
• Mdina – Cheese making and tasting
• Haġar Qim – Megalithic temples
• Blue Grotto – Scenic photo stop
• Malta – Traditional folklore show with dinner
• Vittoriosa and Senglea – Walking tour
• Marsaxlokk – Fishing village visit

Optional tours
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):

• Cuisine of Diamante - Hands On Cooking Class (Day 8) - $235 per person

Optional tours can be selected during the booking process, or 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.

Pre/post accommodation 
Not available

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 $2,600.00 per person, in addition to the twin-share price, you guarantee the privacy of your room throughout the entire tour.

Please note when choosing Single Supplement for this tour, your room will generally consist of a double or semi-double bed. Occasionally there may be a hotel that will provide a single bedded room for single travellers. 

2- Shared Room with a known friend
If travelling together with a friend, you can opt to share your room with them 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 as adding extra accommodation, flights, etc), making separate payments and having individual access to our Traveller 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 Information
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.

Instalment Schedule:

1. At the time of booking pay a $99.00 deposit per person.
2. Pay a 1st installment of $3,099.00 per person within 7 days.
3. Pay a 2nd installment of $5,578.00 per person within 60 days.
4. You will then be invoiced for final payment 120 days prior to departure.

Cooling Off Period
A refund will be available within the 7-day cooling-off period unless otherwise restricted by the purchased product. Where 'last minute' bookings are available within 71 days of departure, the cooling-off period does not apply and bookings are immediately non-refundable.

Terms and conditions 
Please review our terms and conditions here: https://www.inspiringvacations.com/au/page/terms-and-conditions

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 in Rome 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 road trip 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 guide 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 from your hotel in Malta, there are regular bus connections, official taxis and ride-share services. If you’re having any problems, you can speak to hotel reception before your departure.

Tour Suitability

• This is a 20-day combined product (19 nights): a 12-day road trip through southern Italy followed by a 9-day small group tour of Malta and Gozo, joined on the same day so that the final day of the Italian road trip in Rome is also the first day of the Malta tour, connected by an included internal flight from Rome to Malta. The Italian portion involves daily coach travel through multiple regions with some longer driving days, so passengers should be comfortable with extended periods on a coach.
• On the day you move between the two portions you will fly from Rome to Malta. On arrival at Malta International Airport you will be met by your licensed local guide together with the rest of the Malta group and transferred to Čirkewwa to board the ferry across to the island of Gozo.
• The ancient sites of Pompeii and Paestum involve walking on uneven, ancient surfaces with limited shade. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are essential, particularly during the warmer months.
• Matera’s Sassi district involves steep pathways, narrow staircases and uneven cobblestoned surfaces. Passengers with limited mobility should consider whether this is suitable before booking.
• Several walking tours take place on cobblestoned streets and through historic centres with uneven terrain (Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, Civita and Matera in Italy, and Valletta, Mdina and Victoria in Malta). Sturdy, supportive footwear is strongly recommended.
• In Malta, touring is on foot at heritage sites with cobblestones, slopes and steps; hilltop and fortified sites (the Citadella, Mdina, Upper Barrakka Gardens) involve slopes and stairs. On the roads to the Dream of Horses farm and the Qbajjar salt pans the coach cannot pass, so smaller mini vans are used.
• The Amalfi Coast experience and the Malta and Gozo ferry crossings involve boarding and disembarking ferries and smaller boats. Passengers should be comfortable with water-based transport.
• Italy and Malta can experience extreme heat during the summer months (June to September), with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C in southern Italy. 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 on the Amalfi Coast and the optional Blue Grotto boat trip is weather permitting. If conditions do not allow, alternative arrangements will be made.
• The Maltese Government ECO tax of €1.50 per person per night, for travellers over 18, is not included and is payable directly to each hotel on arrival in Malta.
• This tour is a combination of several smaller journeys. You may join a group where some travellers have already been together prior to your arrival, or some of your fellow passengers may be travelling onwards when your tour comes to a finish. There may also be instances during your trip when some passengers depart and new ones join, in particular when joining the Malta group. If you’d like more information on alternative tour options or extensions, please feel free to contact us.

Visas & Entry Requirements

Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. 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 trip 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 traveling 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

Pace calculator
Definitions 

This tour category is Italy: Lively / Malta: Leisurely

The Italian road trip portion is Lively, with full sightseeing days, some early starts, longer driving days and a number of one night hotel stays, perfect for those eager to cover more ground. The Malta portion is Leisurely, with guided sightseeing each morning and ample free time in the afternoons and evenings. Please consider this your guide, as the pace varies across the two portions of your itinerary.

Activity and Mobility

Italy: 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. 

Malta: 2 out of 5 - Relaxed. Our Relaxed tours involve a moderate level of physical activity with plenty of free time, taken at an easy pace with regular stops. Across both portions you must be confident on your feet and capable of navigating steps and uneven ground without assistance to fully participate.

Activity level: Moderate to active in Italy, with daily walking tours through historic centres, archaeological sites and coastal excursions, and most days combining coach travel with on-foot exploration. Easy to moderate in Malta, with guided sightseeing mornings at a relaxed pace and free afternoons.

Typical daily walking: Around 2 to 5 km on Italian sightseeing days and roughly 2 to 4 km on Maltese sightseeing days, mostly in towns and at heritage sites. Some Italian days are primarily coach-based travel.

Terrain and key walks by area: Cobblestoned streets, narrow lanes and occasional steps in Italy’s historic towns (Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, Otranto, Trani and Anagni). Matera’s Sassi district involves steep staircases and rock-hewn pathways; Pompeii and Paestum involve walking on ancient, uneven ground with limited shade; Civita is reached via a pedestrian bridge with steep village paths. In Malta, towns and capitals (Valletta, Victoria, Sliema) are paved but include cobblestones, kerbs and steps; hilltop and fortified sites (the Citadella, Mdina, Upper Barrakka Gardens) involve slopes and stairs; heritage and coastal sites (Haġar Qim, Dwejra, Dingli Cliffs, Blue Grotto lookout) involve uneven stone and gravel.

Mobility and accessibility: Best suited to travellers comfortable with moderate to active walking, frequent steps, cobblestones and some uneven ground. Some walking tours can be skipped, with passengers able to remain at the coach, stay at the hotel, or wait at an accessible point while the group completes a walk. Several sightseeing locations are not wheelchair accessible (for example the Matera Sassi, Pompeii, Paestum, Civita, the cobblestoned centres of Alberobello, Ostuni and Lecce, and several Maltese heritage and coastal sites), with no step-free alternative routes. Please reach out to Inspiring Vacations directly to discuss wheelchair or mobility-aid use, and disclose this at the time of booking.

Hotels, transport and climate: All hotels are 4-star properties; most have lifts and many offer accessible rooms, subject to room category and availability, and all have adequate power outlets for CPAP machines. Transport is by private coach in Italy (with ferries and boats on the Amalfi Coast) and by air-conditioned coach in Malta, with smaller mini vans used on narrow roads (the Dream of Horses farm and the Qbajjar salt pans) and scheduled ferries between Malta and Gozo. The internal flight between Rome and Malta is unescorted. Italy and Malta can be very hot in summer, so pace sightseeing, use sun protection and stay hydrated.

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

Please note that the group composition will change during your tour. When you reach Malta you will join a separate small group for the Malta and Gozo portion of your journey, and some of your fellow travellers from the Italian road trip may not continue.

Escorted Style

This is a combined product and is partially escorted, with the touring portions fully escorted and the internal flight between the two unescorted.

Throughout the Italian road trip you are accompanied by a dedicated, English-speaking Tour Leader, with local expert guides joining at key sites to provide in-depth knowledge during walking tours and site visits.

Your flight from Rome to Malta is unescorted. On arrival at Malta International Airport you will be met by a licensed English-speaking local guide, together with the rest of the Malta group, and transferred to Čirkewwa to board the ferry across to Gozo. This guide accompanies you throughout the Malta and Gozo portion, from your arrival meet and greet through to the final day of sightseeing, and provides the local history and cultural commentary at each site.

Tour Type

You have purchased a combination package, meaning that certain components of the tour are operated differently.

Both portions of this tour are Small Group Tours. 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 or guide, leaving you free to explore at your own pace during designated free time. Benefit from smaller group sizes, creating a truly unforgettable travel experience.

The internal flight between the two portions is unescorted, and you will be met by your local guide on arrival in Malta.

Exclusions

• International airfares
• Airport transfers (arrival in Italy and departure in Malta)
• Visas
• Travel insurance
• Optional activities
• Maltese Government ECO tax (€1.50 per person per night, payable to the hotel on arrival)
• Tipping and gratuities
• Beverages unless stated
• Meals not listed in the itinerary
• Personal expenses
• Anything not mentioned in the itinerary

Getting Around

In Italy you will travel primarily by private coach, covering a significant amount of ground through the regions of Lazio, Abruzzo, Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria and Campania, 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 and purchase refreshments.

On the Amalfi Coast you will travel by ferry and boat to experience the coastline from the water, so passengers should be comfortable boarding and disembarking smaller vessels.

Travel between the two portions is by an included internal flight from Rome to Malta, which is unescorted. On arrival in Malta you will be met by your local guide and transferred by coach to the ferry across to Gozo.

In Malta touring is by dedicated, air-conditioned coach, with smaller mini vans used on a few narrow roads, including the approaches to the Dream of Horses farm and the Qbajjar salt pans. Crossings between the islands of Malta and Gozo are by scheduled passenger ferry. Valletta is a walking city and is explored on foot. Porterage is provided at the Maltese hotels on arrival and departure.

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

Hotel Ratings

Star ratings can differ between countries, reflecting diverse standards and amenities. To give you the most accurate picture possible, we don't just rely on a single source for hotel ratings. We go beyond by researching various trusted travel websites like Tripadvisor and Booking.com. This allows us to analyse a wider range of genuine customer reviews and experiences, giving you a well-rounded understanding of the hotel's typical star rating.

This means you can book with confidence, knowing the hotel has a strong track record of satisfied guests.

Accommodation Details

This tour features 4-star hotels throughout, across southern Italy and the islands of Malta and Gozo. Each property has been chosen based on location and accessibility to the touring itinerary, and our team continuously reviews and updates our selections using customer feedback.

Please note that hotel standards in southern Italy and Malta, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas, may differ from those at home. Star ratings reflect local standards. A number of nights involve one-night stays as the Italian road trip moves between regions.

Packing Essentials

• Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes with good grip for cobblestones, steps, slopes and uneven stone
• Lightweight, breathable clothing for warm weather, with a light jacket or cardigan for air-conditioned coaches and cooler evenings
• A waterproof layer or compact umbrella, particularly for coastal days and the Maltese shoulder seasons
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen
• Modest clothing for visiting churches and religious sites (shoulders and knees covered for both men and women), and a light scarf or wrap to cover up as needed
• Swimwear for coastal and hotel leisure time
• A small daypack for excursions
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• Motion sickness medication if prone to travel sickness (winding coastal roads)
• A small amount of cash in Euro for the Maltese ECO tax, optional boat trips, tips and small purchases
• A portable charger and an EU power adapter (Type C, F or L plug; Malta uses the UK-style Type G plug)
• Any personal medication in its original packaging, with a copy of your prescription

Climate

• Summer (June to September): Warm to hot across both countries, with inland southern Italy (Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria) and the Maltese islands regularly reaching 30 to 35°C or higher. Coastal areas benefit from sea breezes but can still be very warm, and southern Italy and Malta can experience extreme heat in July and August.
• Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November): Generally the most comfortable times to travel, with pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds and lower humidity. Evenings can be cooler. The Maltese shoulder seasons can bring the occasional shower, particularly in October.
• Winter (December to March): Milder than northern Europe but can bring rain and cooler temperatures, particularly along the Italian Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coasts. Malta has mild, wetter winters.
• Conditions vary between coastal and inland areas, so pack layers, use sun protection and stay well-hydrated, particularly during the warmer months.

Currency and ATMs

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

Smaller towns, rural areas and local markets, particularly in southern Italy, may prefer or only accept cash, so carry some on hand for smaller purchases, tips, independent meals, the optional boat trips and the Maltese ECO tax (payable in cash to each hotel on arrival). We recommend withdrawing Euros from ATMs as needed rather than exchanging large amounts before departure, and notifying your bank of your travel dates.

Food and Allergies

Southern Italian cuisine is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients and regional traditions: Puglia is known for its olive oil, orecchiette pasta and seafood; Calabria for its spicy ’nduja and citrus; and Campania for pizza, buffalo mozzarella and limoncello. Street food such as arancini, panzerotti and taralli is widely available, and seafood features heavily along the coast. Maltese cuisine blends Mediterranean, Italian and North African influences, with ftira, rabbit stew (fenkata), pastizzi, fresh seafood, Gozitan cheeselets (ġbejniet) and local wine.

For those with dietary restrictions, vegetarian options are generally plentiful and gluten-free options are increasingly available, though it is important to communicate your requirements clearly, particularly at smaller venues and on Gozo, where options can be more limited and cross-contamination cannot be guaranteed. 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 a taste of the local cuisine. On this tour, breakfast is provided daily, along with 5 lunches and 5 dinners as set out in your itinerary, including a trabocco dinner on the Costa dei Trabocchi, an Arbëreshë lunch in Civita, a wine tasting on Gozo, a cheese making and tasting experience near Mdina, and a traditional folklore show with dinner in Malta. Many meals will be eaten together with your group, but not all meals are included, 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 or local guide will also be able to give suggestions on restaurants and will endeavour to advise the main ingredients in dishes consumed, however it remains your responsibility to ensure 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.

Local Customs

In southern Italy you will find a warm and welcoming culture. Italians greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on both cheeks among friends, and a polite “Buongiorno” or “Buonasera” goes a long way. When visiting churches and religious sites, modest dress is required, with shoulders and knees covered, and hats removed inside. Dining is relaxed and social, with lunch traditionally the main meal and dinner often served from 8pm onwards.

Malta is a strongly Catholic country and religion is central to daily life, with frequent village festas, particularly in summer. Churches are active places of worship as well as visitor sites, so dress modestly, keep noise down and follow any photography restrictions. The Maltese are warm and hospitable, English is an official language alongside Maltese, and Sunday and feast days can mean reduced opening hours for some shops and services.

Dress Code

Lightweight and breathable clothing is ideal for the warm Mediterranean climate across both countries. 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 for both men and women, with shoulders and knees covered. This is strictly enforced at Italian cathedrals and basilicas and at Maltese churches including St John’s Co-Cathedral, the Mosta Rotunda, Ta’ Pinu Basilica and Mdina. Carry a scarf or light cover-up for this purpose. Sleeveless tops, short skirts and beachwear are not appropriate at religious or official buildings.

Comfortable, sturdy walking shoes are essential for the cobblestoned streets, steps and uneven terrain at many destinations. Beachwear is fine at the coast and around hotel pools only.

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.

Tipping

Tipping is not included in your tour price and is not obligatory in either Italy or Malta, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a small tip of a few euros or rounding up the bill is customary. Some Italian restaurants may include a “coperto” (cover charge) or “servizio” (service charge), in which case additional tipping is not expected; in Malta, leaving around 5 to 10% for good service is customary where a service charge has not already been added.

For your Tour Leader, local guides and drivers, tipping is at your discretion and a nice way to show appreciation for exceptional service. As a guide for the Malta portion, we recommend €3 to 5 per day per person for drivers and €5 to 7 per day per person for your guide.

Peak Travel Times

Peak travel times across southern Italy and Malta are driven by the warm Mediterranean climate, summer holidays and major cultural events. The most popular time to visit is June to September, when the weather is warmest. July and August are the busiest and hottest months, coinciding with Italian domestic holidays (Ferragosto on 15 August is a major national holiday) and Maltese summer village festas, when popular destinations such as the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Calabria and the Maltese islands 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 better availability. Easter week and the weeks around major Italian public holidays (such as 25 April, 1 May and 2 June), and Carnival and Holy Week in Malta, can also bring increased numbers to popular sites including Pompeii, Matera and Lecce.

Safety and Security

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your own government's advice for the most up-to-date travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your tour.

Your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities listed on the itinerary, however, you'll have some free time to explore on your own. While your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide will assist you as best they can with your requests and the options available outside your itinerary, please note Inspiring Vacations makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running the activity. Please use your judgement when selecting an activity in your free time.

Please also note that your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns.

Southern Italy is generally safe for travellers, but take the usual precautions against petty theft, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, in busy tourist areas, on public transport and around major train stations and markets, particularly in Naples. Keep valuables secure and be alert in crowded places. Take care on uneven, steep and slippery surfaces at archaeological sites, coastal towns and along the Amalfi Coast, and follow your guide's advice and any operator instructions on optional boat trips and excursions, which run weather permitting. In summer, manage sun exposure and stay hydrated.

Malta is generally a safe destination with low levels of serious crime. Take the usual precautions against petty theft, such as pickpocketing, in busy tourist areas, on public transport and at markets, and keep valuables secure. Take care on uneven and slippery surfaces at heritage and coastal sites, and follow your guide's advice and any operator instructions on the optional boat trips, which run weather permitting. In summer, manage sun exposure and stay hydrated.

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.

Itinerary Changes

Sometimes, unexpected things can happen, like unpredictable weather or higher-than-usual crowds at attractions. In these situations, your tour leader might need to adjust the itinerary slightly to improve your overall experience. 

This flexibility ensures you get the most out of your trip! Your tour leader will always keep you informed of any changes and explain the reasoning behind them. Remember, when travelling with a group, sometimes going with the flow can lead to even more amazing experiences.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is strongly recommended on all our trips. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. It is also important to consider forced pre-trip cancellations and how your chosen insurance policy may cover such circumstances, so please keep this in mind when choosing your provider. 

We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will be asked by your tour leader for your travel insurance details if they were not already added to your Traveller Hub account pre-departure.

If you have credit card insurance your Inspiring Vacations tour leader or local guide may require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details before arriving in-country.

Before you depart, you will be asked to submit your Travel Insurance details through the booking holder's Traveller Hub account through the Inspiring Vacations website. This is to ensure that we have this information readily available should we ever need it. 

Health, Wellness & Fitness Requirements

All travellers need to be in good physical health to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements.

When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully to assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. If we find that you are unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to yourself and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund.

You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell before travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements and we would be more than happy to assist you.

Important Information for Customers with Mobility Limitations

We want to ensure everyone has a fantastic and inclusive experience on our tours. If you require the use of a mobility aid, such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair, please disclose this information at the time of booking.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for the entire group, our tours are designed with a specific itinerary in mind. This may involve moderate walking, uneven terrain, or stairs. While some itinerary adjustments may not be possible, we'll do our best to find alternative solutions within the planned activities whenever possible.

Open communication helps us ensure your trip is a perfect fit and it allows your local guide or tour leader to assist you where possible. 

Information for CPAP Users

If you use a CPAP machine, please let us know at the time of booking. Some portions of our itinerary, like overnight cruises or camping trips, may have limited access to power outlets. In such cases, we recommend travelling with portable battery packs. 

Certain activities, like overnight journeys on board smaller vessels, may not be suitable for CPAP use due to space limitations or noise concerns. We can discuss these potential limitations upfront and help you make informed decisions about your trip.

Documentation

Tour documentation is typically emailed to the lead passenger or your travel agent between 14-30 days before your scheduled departure. This will include your final hotel list. 

Official Travel Advice

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, we recommend referring to the official travel advisory website of your home country for the latest updates on your chosen destination. These websites provide valuable information on:

• Safety and Security: Current risks and precautions for the country you'll be visiting.
• Visa Requirements: Ensure you have all the necessary documentation for entry.
• Entry and Exit: Up-to-date border regulations and health requirements.

Here are some helpful links to get you started:

• Australia: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations
• New Zealand: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/
• America: https://travel.state.gov/
• Canada: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/advisories 
• India: https://www.mea.gov.in/travel-advisories.htm

In the unlikely event of a situation that could potentially disrupt your tour, we want to assure you of the following:

• Local Expertise: We maintain regular communication with our trusted travel partners in your destination.
• Constant Monitoring: We continuously monitor official travel advisories from relevant government websites.
• Flexibility and Safety: Should it become necessary, we will make appropriate adjustments to your itinerary to prioritise your health and safety.

By staying informed and working together, we can ensure a fantastic travel experience for you. We will post our own travel updates to our website here.

Connect with fellow travellers on Facebook

During your booking journey, you might have received an email inviting you to join a special Facebook group dedicated to your chosen destination. These vibrant online communities are exclusively for Inspiring Vacations travellers headed to the same incredible place. Joining this group unlocks a wealth of information and connections. Swap travel tips, share packing insights, or even see if anyone's interested in travelling together.  

We also regularly host insightful webinars featuring travel experts who share their tips and tricks for navigating your destination and maximising your itinerary. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to connect, learn, and get even more excited about your upcoming trip!

Travelling in a Group

Travelling in a group means you will experience both the pleasures and perhaps at times, some of the frustrations of travelling with people you don’t know. The good news is you all have at least one thing in common: a love of travel and exploration. Your fellow travellers will probably come from different parts of the world, and fall into different age groups. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group—patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the overall benefit of the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, please ensure that you respect this request from your tour leader or local guide. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip before departure.

Community Guidelines

Inspiring Vacations does not tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams (Inspiring Vacations Tour Leaders and local expert guides) or local communities.

Any behaviour that prevents your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines, may result in Inspiring Vacations removing you from the tour.

If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader immediately. Alternatively, when you are on-tour and require immediate support you can contact our Customer Support team and select the “On-Tour” option when listening to the options.

Inspiring Vacations Tour Leader vs Guide

While both tour leaders and local guides enrich your travel experience, their roles differ. Tour leaders, who often accompany you for the entire trip, handle logistics, ensure smooth sailing of the itinerary, and act as your point of contact for any concerns. They might provide general information about destinations, but in-depth historical or cultural knowledge often comes from local guides. Local guides, frequently native to the area, lead tours at specific sites or attractions, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.

Coach Transportation

The size of your coach will comfortably accommodate your group. There's usually room for some extra seats, ensuring a relaxing journey. Your luggage will be safely stored either underneath the coach or in a dedicated trailer.

While the exact coach style may vary depending on the departure, all our coaches offer comfortable seating. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi and charging outlets might not always be available. To stay connected and avoid dead batteries,  we recommend fully charging your devices beforehand or bringing a portable charger.

For longer journeys, we'll make sure to include ample restroom breaks along the way, so you can freshen up and recharge at your convenience, as facilities are not on-board the coach.

Staying Connected

If you want to stay connected and access reliable internet while on tour, there are a few options available. It is possible to purchase a virtual sim and we recommend contacting your mobile phone provider for assistance in doing so. You can add a roaming data plan to your existing phone contract is another option, albeit an expensive one. You will need to arrange this before departure. Purchasing a local SIM may be possible as a final option. 

We also recommend downloading WhatsApp and using this to communicate with other group members while on tour, and of course, after the tour if you’d like to stay in touch. Our tour leaders may also use this as a means of communicating essential trip information with you, as well as if you choose to add-on transfers to your booking, as your driver may use this to confirm arrangements with you.

Post-Tour Feedback

Once your booking is confirmed, you will receive a link to a post-purchase survey, which is your opportunity to share your feedback with us on your booking experience and interactions with our Sales and Customer Success teams. This feedback is invaluable to ensure that we are servicing our customers to the best of our ability. 

Furthermore, towards the end of your travels and while you are in your destination, you will receive an email from us with a link to an in-depth trip survey. It is very important to us that we hear from our customers to ensure that we continue to meet and exceed customers' expectations, so this will be your opportunity to let us know how your trip has been, what has worked well and potentially what could be improved.

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.