23 Day Nonna's Ultimate Roadtrip

•  22 nights in 4-star hotels
• Breakfast daily, 2 lunches and 5 dinners
• Private taxi boat transfer in Venice
• 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

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

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 $1,750.00 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 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:

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 north into Tuscany. Please ensure you are packed and ready to go.

On Day 12, upon your return to Rome and the conclusion of the Northern leg, you will meet your new Tour Leader and fellow travellers for the Southern leg of your journey. A second welcome meeting will be held that evening. Details will be provided in your final documentation.

In Case of Emergency

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

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

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

Finishing Point

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

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

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

Departure Details

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

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

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

Tour Suitability

• This is a 23-day tour combining two road trip itineraries across the full length of Italy. The tour involves daily coach travel through multiple regions, with some longer driving days between destinations. Passengers should be comfortable with extended periods on a coach.
• The Cinque Terre day is largely independent and involves navigating trains, boats, and hilly village terrain. Villages are built on steep hillsides with many steps, narrow lanes, and uneven surfaces. Passengers should be confident managing this type of terrain independently or with limited assistance.
• Venice is a walking city with no vehicle access. The walking tour involves crossing bridges with steps (there are no flat alternatives) and navigating narrow, crowded lanes. Passengers with limited mobility should consider whether this is suitable before booking.
• The Marmore Waterfalls involve walking on potentially wet, uneven paths with some inclines. Appropriate footwear and caution are required.
• 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.
  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.
• The Amalfi Coast experience involves boarding and disembarking ferries and smaller boats. Passengers should be comfortable with water-based transport and the associated movement.
• Several destinations on this tour feature cobblestoned streets, steps, and uneven surfaces, including Montepulciano, Pienza, Siena, Florence, Lucca, Verona, Ravenna, Assisi, Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, Otranto, Trani, and Anagni. Sturdy, supportive footwear is strongly recommended.
• Italy can experience extreme heat during the summer months (June to September), with temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C in southern regions. Make sure to evaluate if this season is suitable for your travel plans, and remember to use sufficient sun protection and stay well-hydrated.
• Boat travel in the Cinque Terre and on Lake Garda is weather permitting. If conditions do not allow, alternative arrangements (typically by train or coach) will be made.
• Many of our tours are the 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. 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

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 maximise each moment and cover more ground.

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 snapshot

• Activity level: Moderate to active, with daily walking tours through historic centres, heritage sites, archaeological ruins, and one largely independent day exploring the Cinque Terre villages.
• Typical walking: Around 2–6 km on sightseeing days, with some days being primarily coach-based travel and others involving more sustained walking at heritage sites. The Cinque Terre day may involve more depending on how many villages you choose to explore.

Terrain and key walks

• Historic towns and cities: Cobblestoned streets, narrow lanes, and occasional steps in Montepulciano, Pienza, Siena, Florence, Lucca, Verona, Ravenna, Assisi, Alberobello, Ostuni, Lecce, Otranto, Trani, and Anagni. Generally flat within town centres 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.
• Cinque Terre: The five villages are built into steep hillsides with many steps, narrow paths, and no vehicle access. Navigation between villages is by train and boat. Optional hiking paths are available but not required.
• Venice: Entirely on foot with numerous bridges featuring steps (no step-free alternatives). Surfaces are a mix of stone paving and bridge stairs. Walking distances are moderate but the terrain requires navigating steps throughout.
• 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.
• Marmore Waterfalls: Walking paths with inclines and potentially wet, uneven surfaces. Short distances but requires sure-footedness.

Mobility requirements

• Best suited to: Travellers comfortable with moderate to active walking, frequent steps, cobblestones, and some uneven ground at heritage sites. A reasonable level of fitness is required for the Cinque Terre and Venice days in particular.
• Opt-out options: Some walking tours can be skipped, with passengers able to remain at the coach, stay at the hotel, or explore independently at a gentler pace. In the Cinque Terre, passengers can choose how many villages to visit. Specific opt-out options 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 Venice, Cinque Terre, Montepulciano, Assisi, Marmore Waterfalls, 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 regional trains in the Cinque Terre, a private taxi boat in Venice, a scenic boat ride on Lake Garda, and 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

Minimum: 10 people, Maximum: 24 people
Please note that the group composition will change on Day 12 in Rome. You will be joined by new fellow travellers for the Southern leg of your journey, and some passengers from the Northern leg may be departing at this point.

Escorted Style

This tour is fully escorted by multiple dedicated tour leaders who will accompany you throughout the tour. You will be met by a new tour leader in Rome on Day 12 for the Southern leg of your journey, and your tour leaders will coordinate with each other to ensure a seamless transition. At key destinations, local expert guides will join the group to provide in-depth knowledge and insight during walking tours and site visits.

Tour Type

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

Exclusions

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

Getting Around

While touring Italy, you will be travelling primarily by private coach. This tour covers a significant amount of ground, travelling through the regions of Lazio, Tuscany, Liguria, Emilia-Romagna, Veneto, Umbria, 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.

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

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

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

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 Tuscany, Liguria, and along the southern coastline, can be narrow and winding in hilly, 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 Italy, from the northern regions of Tuscany, Liguria, and Veneto through to the southern regions of Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, and Campania. 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 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

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

Climate

Italy enjoys a Mediterranean climate, though conditions vary between the northern and southern regions and between coastal, inland, and highland areas.

Summer (June to September): Warm to hot across the country, with inland areas such as Tuscany, Umbria, Puglia, Basilicata, and Calabria regularly reaching 30–35°C or higher. Coastal areas benefit from sea breezes but can still be very warm. Southern Italy can experience extreme heat, particularly 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, particularly in hilltop towns and near the lakes.
Winter (December to March): Milder than northern Europe but can bring rain and cooler temperatures, particularly in Tuscany, Umbria, and along the Tyrrhenian and Adriatic coasts. The Ligurian coast tends to remain milder year-round.

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

Currency and ATMs

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

However, smaller towns, rural areas, and local markets 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

Italian cuisine varies richly by region, and this tour offers an exceptional culinary journey from north to south. In Tuscany, expect rustic simplicity with dishes like ribollita and world-class wines. Liguria brings pesto, focaccia, and fresh seafood. Emilia-Romagna is the home of Parmigiano Reggiano, prosciutto di Parma, and tortellini. The Veneto offers risotto and cicchetti. Umbria is celebrated for its truffles and cured meats.

Further south, Puglia is known for its olive oil, fresh pasta (particularly orecchiette), and seafood. Calabria brings spicy ’nduja and citrus, while Campania is famous for pizza, buffalo mozzarella, and limoncello. Street food is a highlight throughout, with arancini, panzerotti, and taralli widely available.

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

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

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

Local Customs

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

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

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

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

Dress Code

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

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

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

Responsible Dining

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

Tipping

Tipping is not obligatory in Italy, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a small tip of a few euros or rounding up the bill is customary. Some restaurants may include a “coperto” (cover charge) or “servizio” (service charge) on the bill, in which case additional tipping is not expected.

For your Tour Leader and local guides, tipping is at your discretion and a nice way to show appreciation for exceptional service. Your Tour Leader may provide guidance on local tipping customs during the tour.

Peak Travel Times

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

Major cultural events, such as the Venice Carnival (February), the Palio horse race in Siena (July and August), and the Verona Opera Festival (June to September), also attract large numbers of visitors. Easter week and the weeks surrounding major Italian public holidays (such as 25 April, 1 May, and 2 June) bring increased visitor numbers to popular historic and religious sites, including Pompeii, Matera, Lecce, Assisi, Florence, and Rome.

Safety and Security

Italy is generally a safe country for travellers. However, as with any popular tourist destination, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, on public transport, and at major tourist sites. Keep valuables secure, use a money belt or cross-body bag, and be mindful of your belongings in busy areas such as Rome, Florence, Venice, and Naples.

We recommend keeping a photocopy of your passport separate from the original and storing important documents securely. If you encounter any issues during your tour, inform your Tour Leader immediately.

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 priorities 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 maximizing 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 behavior 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.