12 Day Nonna's Southern Italian Road Trip
Designed to take you to iconic landmarks and hidden treasures, ensuring a rich blend of must-see sights. Travel with no more than 26 people (on average 16-20), allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience.
This tour is either fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader or guided by experienced local guides at each destination. If your itinerary includes local guides, a new guide will meet you in each location, and any internal flights will be unescorted. For further details, please refer to the Essential Information for this tour.
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
✓ 11 nights in 4-star hotels
✓ Breakfast daily, 1 lunch and 3 dinners
✓ Ferry and coastal boat tour along the Amalfi Coast
✓ 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
✈ Needing international airfares to accompany your Inspiring Vacation? You will be able to access our flight portal after securing your package to add international airfares to your booking.
🛏️ Shared room available for solo passengers. This tour offers solo passengers the option to share a room with a fellow passenger of the same gender and avoid the Single Traveller supplement.
Inspired by Nonna’s tales and travels, this fully escorted tour journeys through southern Italy’s lesser-explored regions. From the trulli of Alberobello to the ancient caves of Matera, dine on a trabocco above the Adriatic, cruise the Amalfi Coast by boat, and walk the ancient streets of Pompeii.
Welcome to Rome, the starting point of Nonna’s Southern Italian Road Trip, a tour inspired by Nonna’s tales and travels. Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel to get settled in.
Depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day is yours to settle in and start soaking up the atmosphere of the Eternal City. Perhaps take a gentle stroll through the surrounding neighbourhood, pause for your first espresso at a local café, or simply unwind after your journey.
As evening falls, meet your Tour Leader and fellow travellers for your welcome meeting before enjoying an evening at leisure exploring the streets of Rome.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.
If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.
After breakfast, leave the bustle of the city behind as you journey into the lesser-explored landscapes of Italy’s Abruzzo region.
En route, stop in the charming town of Sulmona, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of confectionery. Here, visit the Pelino Confetti Museum, where you’ll gain insight into the artistry behind Italy’s famous sugared almonds, delicately crafted and deeply woven into local culture. Your visit to the museum is self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace.
Continuing onward, arrive at the Costa dei Trabocchi, a striking stretch of Adriatic coastline dotted with traditional wooden fishing structures known as trabocchi, perched dramatically over the sea.
This evening, enjoy a memorable aperitif and dinner set within one of these historic trabocchi (additional beverages at own cost). Suspended above the water, this unique setting offers an authentic and atmospheric dining experience, where local flavours are complemented by sweeping coastal views.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours
After breakfast, continue your journey south, travelling deeper into the sun-drenched landscapes of Puglia, where coastal elegance meets distinctive architectural charm.
En route, stop in the seaside town of Trani, a hidden gem along the Adriatic coast. Known for its refined atmosphere and historic harbour, Trani invites a gentle exploration of its waterfront, where fishing boats and cafés line the promenade. The town’s pale stone cathedral, set dramatically by the sea, offers a striking backdrop and a sense of timeless tranquillity.
After time to explore, continue onward to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town famed for its unique trulli, whitewashed stone houses topped with conical roofs. As you arrive, the landscape transforms into a storybook setting, where these distinctive dwellings cluster along winding streets, creating one of Italy’s most memorable scenes.
Settle into your accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure, soaking up the charm of this truly unique destination.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today continues your exploration of Puglia’s distinctive landscapes, where whitewashed towns, ancient traditions, and rich flavours define the region’s enduring appeal.
After breakfast, depart for a deeper discovery of Alberobello, where the fairytale-like trulli create a truly unique architectural landscape. Take time to wander through its winding lanes, where these iconic stone dwellings reveal the history and craftsmanship of the region.
From here, continue to the elegant hilltop town of Ostuni, often referred to as the “White City.” Perched above the Adriatic, its labyrinth of narrow streets and gleaming white buildings offers sweeping views and a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere. As you explore, the town’s charm unfolds through hidden corners, lively piazzas, and sunlit alleyways.
During the day, enjoy a visit to a local oil mill, where you’ll experience an olive oil tasting, an essential introduction to one of Puglia’s most celebrated products. Discover the traditions behind its production and savour the rich, authentic flavours that define the region’s cuisine.
In the afternoon, continue your journey to Lecce, a city renowned for its ornate Baroque architecture and vibrant southern Italian spirit. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today invites a deeper exploration of Puglia’s cultural richness, where Baroque artistry meets the coastal beauty of the Adriatic.
Following breakfast, begin in Lecce, often referred to as the “Florence of the South,” where ornate façades and honey-coloured stone define the city’s unmistakable character. Accompanied by your Local Guide, enjoy a walking tour through its historic centre. As you wander through elegant piazzas and intricate streets, discover the craftsmanship and stories behind Lecce’s remarkable Baroque architecture.
Next, visit a traditional ceramics and pottery workshop, offering insight into one of the region’s most cherished artisanal traditions. Observe the techniques passed down through generations and gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity that shapes local culture.
This afternoon, continue to the coastal town of Otranto, where history and sea views combine in a setting of understated beauty. Stroll through its charming old town, where narrow lanes open onto glimpses of the Adriatic, and a relaxed pace invites you to linger.
Return to Lecce, with the remainder of the day at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.
After breakfast, depart Lecce, travelling inland toward one of Italy’s most extraordinary and atmospheric destinations.
Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city famed for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi, which are carved directly into the limestone cliffs. With your Local Guide, embark on a walking tour through this remarkable landscape. As you navigate its winding pathways, staircases, and rock-hewn spaces, uncover the history of a city that has evolved over thousands of years, where past and present exist in striking harmony.
Following your guided exploration, take time to absorb the unique atmosphere of Matera at your own pace, as the soft light of the afternoon enhances the textures and tones of this unforgettable setting.
This evening, enjoy a three-course dinner at a local restaurant (beverages at own cost), offering a taste of regional cuisine in an equally evocative environment.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Today’s journey reveals one of southern Italy’s most distinctive cultural landscapes, where dramatic mountain scenery meets deep-rooted traditions.
After breakfast, depart Matera and travel toward Calabria, stopping in the remarkable hilltop village of Civita. Perched above the Raganello Gorge, this unique settlement is part of the Arbëreshë community, descendants of Albanian settlers who have preserved their language, customs, and identity for centuries.
Accompanied by your Local Guide, enjoy a walking tour through Civita and the surrounding area, including the striking Ponte del Diavolo (Devil’s Bridge), allowing you to fully appreciate the dramatic natural setting.
During your time here, immerse yourself in local traditions with a three-course Arbëreshë lunch at a local restaurant. The experience is enriched by a demonstration of dromesat arbëresh, a traditional handmade pasta that reflects the region’s unique cultural heritage.
Continue with a visit to a local farm, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of regional wines alongside a selection of local products, an authentic expression of Calabria’s rich agricultural traditions.
After lunch, continue to the Riviera dei Cedri, where the coastline unfolds in a series of scenic views along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Wake to the relaxed rhythm of the Tyrrhenian coast, where the Riviera dei Cedri offers a blend of coastal beauty, fragrant landscapes, and understated charm.
After breakfast, enjoy a half day excursion along this picturesque stretch of coastline. As you travel, take in sweeping sea views, rugged cliffs, and small seaside towns that reflect the authentic character of Calabria. Known for its citrus groves—particularly the prized cedro—this region is rich in both natural beauty and local tradition.
Following your exploration, the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may choose to unwind by the sea, stroll through a coastal village, or simply relax and take in the tranquil surroundings. Alternatively, consider joining an optional experience to further discover the region’s hidden gems and local culture.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Today’s journey blends rich culinary tradition with ancient history, as you travel along the Campania coastline toward Salerno.
After breakfast, depart the Riviera dei Cedri with your first stop at a local buffalo farm. Here, enjoy an immersive experience centred around one of the region’s most celebrated products—buffalo mozzarella. Learn about the production process before indulging in a tasting that highlights the freshness and distinctive flavour of this iconic delicacy.
Continue to the charming coastal town of Agropoli, where you’ll have time to pause for lunch and soak in the relaxed seaside atmosphere, framed by views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
In the afternoon, arrive at the archaeological site of Paestum, one of Italy’s most impressive ancient Greek settlements. Accompanied by your Local Guide, enjoy a walking tour through this remarkable site. With included entrance to the excavation area, explore the exceptionally well-preserved temples and ruins, gaining insight into a civilisation that dates back over two millennia.
Following your visit, continue to Salerno. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Today is dedicated to the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast, where dramatic cliffs, pastel-hued villages, and the shimmering Mediterranean create one of Italy’s most iconic landscapes.
After breakfast, begin your journey along the coast, combining land and sea for a truly immersive experience. Travelling by ferry, take in the spectacular scenery from the water—an ever-changing panorama of rugged coastline, hidden coves, and cascading terraces.
From Amalfi, embark on a coastal boat tour, offering a closer perspective of this extraordinary region. Cruise along the shoreline as you make your way to Positano and back, passing colourful villages that cling to the cliffs and capturing unforgettable views along the way.
After lunch, your exploration continues with a boat ride from Amalfi to Maiori, revealing another side of the coastline, where wide beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere contrast beautifully with the dramatic vertical landscapes of Positano.
Return to Salerno in the afternoon, with the evening at leisure to unwind or enjoy the coastal ambiance.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Today’s journey brings together ancient history and medieval heritage, as you make your way back to Rome.
After breakfast, depart Salerno, travelling first to the extraordinary archaeological site of Pompeii. Accompanied by your Local Guide, enjoy a walking tour through this remarkably preserved ancient city. With included admission to the Pompeii archaeological park, step back in time as you explore streets, homes, and public spaces frozen in the moment of Mount Vesuvius’ eruption, offering a powerful glimpse into daily life in the Roman world.
Following your visit, continue north toward the historic town of Anagni, often referred to as the “City of Popes.” Here, enjoy admission to the Villa Papale, an important site reflecting the town’s significant religious and political past.
Later, arrive in Rome and check into your hotel, with time to refresh before your final evening.
Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant (beverages at own cost), celebrating the journey and the shared experiences along the way.
Inspiring Highlights
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Your Nonna’s Italian Road Trip draws to a close. Like the stories passed down around Nonna’s table, filled with laughter, flavour, and moments that linger after the journey ends, we hope this experience has become part of your own story.
May you carry with you more than just memories of Italy’s landscapes and history, but the feeling of slow afternoons, shared meals, and the simple joy of discovering something real.
After breakfast, make your own way to the airport or to your onward journey. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience.
Special Information
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
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 $1,200.00 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.
Instalment Schedule:
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 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
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, with a mix of guided walking tours through historic centres, archaeological sites, and coastal excursions. Most days involve a combination of coach travel and on-foot exploration.
Typical walking: Around 2–5 km on sightseeing days, with some days being primarily coach-based travel and others involving more sustained walking at heritage sites.
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, stop-start walking, steps, cobblestones, and some uneven ground at key heritage sites.
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. Specific opt-out options will depend on the location and should be discussed with your Tour Leader.
Wheelchairs: Vehicles and hotels can accommodate wheelchairs, but several sightseeing locations are not wheelchair accessible (for example Matera Sassi, Pompeii, Paestum, Civita, and the cobblestoned centres of Alberobello, Ostuni, and Lecce). 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 throughout, with ferries and boats on the Amalfi Coast. 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
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
Getting Around
While touring southern Italy, you will be travelling primarily by private coach. The tour covers a significant amount of ground, travelling 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, use the bathroom, and often purchase refreshments.
On the Amalfi Coast, you will travel by ferry and boat to experience the coastline from the water. Passengers should be comfortable boarding and disembarking smaller vessels.
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 a selection of 4-star hotels throughout southern 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 in southern Italy, particularly in smaller towns and rural areas, may differ from those in major cities. Star ratings reflect local standards and may vary from what you are accustomed to at home.
Packing Essentials
Climate
Southern Italy enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer months (June to September) bring temperatures regularly exceeding 30–35°C, particularly in inland areas such as Puglia, Basilicata, and Calabria. Coastal areas benefit from sea 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. Winter months (December to March) are milder than northern Europe but can bring rain, particularly along the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coasts.
We recommend packing layers, using adequate sun protection, and staying well-hydrated, particularly during the warmer months. Weather conditions can vary between coastal 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 in southern Italy 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
Southern Italian cuisine is a celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients and regional traditions. Each area you visit has its own specialties: Puglia is known for its olive oil, fresh pasta (particularly orecchiette), and seafood; Calabria for its spicy ’nduja and citrus; and Campania for pizza, buffalo mozzarella, and limoncello. Expect an emphasis on simple, high-quality dishes that let the ingredients speak for themselves.
Street food is a highlight, with arancini (fried rice balls), panzerotti (fried dough pockets), and taralli (savoury biscuits) widely available. Seafood features heavily along the coastal stretches.
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 in southern 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 endeavor 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. Southern Italy’s culinary scene is diverse and rich, offering an unforgettable gastronomic journey for every traveller.
Local Customs
Travellers to southern 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 applies at all cathedrals, basilicas, and churches you may visit along the route. Avoid wearing hats inside churches as a sign of respect.
Dining culture in southern 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 southern 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. 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 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 southern Italy are primarily influenced by the warm Mediterranean climate and holiday seasons. The most popular time to visit is from June to September, when the weather is at its warmest and the coastal areas are in full swing. July and August are the busiest months, coinciding with Italian domestic holidays (Ferragosto on 15 August is a major national holiday), and popular destinations along the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, and Calabria 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.
Easter week and the weeks surrounding major Italian public holidays (such as 25 April, 1 May, and 2 June) can also bring increased visitor numbers to popular historic and religious sites, including Pompeii, Matera, and Lecce.
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:
Visit our Flight Hub for more information on terms and conditions, amending your flights and information on luggage allowances.
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