Italian Indulgence & the Mediterranean

Overview

Begin this 23 night package with a luxury cruise with Oceania. Delight in the vivid kaleidoscope of Mediterranean springtime blooms decorating Argostoli’s quaint balconied homes, Palma de Mallorca’s medieval courtyards, Valletta’s princely gardens and the scarred slopes of storied Mount Etna.

Enjoy 1 night in Rome before meeting your fellow travellers for a 12 night indepth tour of Italy with Backroads! 

An intoxicating mix of ancient cities and imagination-firing landscapes, Italy is a land where unforgettable experiences lie around every corner. Savour every moment of this adventure as you journey from enchanting Tuscan villages to tranquil lake-side retreats – sampling an abundance of tantalising flavours and local wines along the way.

Cruising aboard Oceania Marina

The Pinnacle of Contemporary Comfort - Marina blends sophistication with a contemporary flair to create a casually elegant ambiance. From the sparkling Lalique Grand Staircase to the stunning Owner's Suites furnished in Ralph Lauren Home, designer touches are everywhere, highlighting the finest residential design and furnishings. More than anything, Marina personifies the Oceania Cruises experience.

Touring with Backroads

Take the opportunity to explore each unique destination in depth. And be guided by passionate Tour Leaders. You’ll be filled with new discoveries, breathtaking scenery and genuine local experiences. With a maximum of 18 guests per tour, hand-picked boutique accommodation, sightseeing, meals and premium mini-coach transport – these tours are a cut above the rest.

Inclusions

• 10 night cruise with Oceania from Barcelona to Rome
• FREE US$600 simply MORE Shore Excursion Credit
• FREE Champagne, Wine & More on the cruise
• FREE Gourmet Speciality Dining on the cruise
• FREE Unlimited WiFi on the cruise
• Transfer from Civitavecchia (Rome) to your accommodation
• 1 night Rome
• 12 night tour with Backroads from Rome to Venice
• 12 Breakfasts, 2 Lunches, 4 Dinners on tour
• Hand-picked accommodation
• Experienced Tour Leader and Driver
• Premium mini-coach transportation
• Learn to cook a delicious Tuscan meal in a traditional countryside villa
• Join a truffle hunt with a local farmer and his dog amongst the scenic hills of Alba
• Bask in the wonders of Lake Maggiore on a scenic boat tour of the Borromean Islands
• Take in the exquisite scenery and opulent atmosphere of Lake Como

Itinerary

Day 1 - Barcelona, Spain     

Board Oceania Marina in Barcelona!

Day 2 - Valencia, Spain 

Day 3 - Ibiza, Spain

Day 4 - Cruising At Sea                

Day 5 - Tunis (La Goulette), Tunisia  

Day 6 - Valletta, Malta

Day 7 - Cruising At Sea                

Day 8 - Argostoli (Cephalonia), Greece  

Day 9 - Messina (Sicily), Italy

Day 10 - Naples/Pompeii, Italy 

Day 11 - Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Disembark Oceania Marina from 8am
You have a transfer pick up included in your package
1 night Rome at your own leisure

Day 12 - Rome (Italy)

They say all roads lead to Rome – and that is where we’ll begin our delightful Italian adventure. After meeting the group, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 13 - Rome – Assisi – Perugia

After breakfast, our route will whisk us away to awe-inspiring Assisi, the birthplace of St Francis. After getting to know the famous hilltop town a little better on an orientation tour, we’ll move on to Perugia – the medieval capital of the Umbria region.

Day 14 - Perugia – Siena – Rural Tuscany

Introducing Siena: a magnificent Gothic city bursting with fabulous architecture. After exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town centre with our Tour Leader, we’ll make tracks for tonight’s idyllic accommodation: a country villa hotel set amidst the rolling Tuscan countryside. For dinner this evening, we’ll come together to indulge in some superb local cuisine.

Day 15 - Rural Tuscany

Interested in learning a few Italian culinary secrets? You’re in luck! Today our friendly hosts will help us to prepare a classic Tuscan lunch. After indulging in our creations, the afternoon will be ours to take in the panoramic countryside views or take a dip in the pool. Accommodation: Villa Pitiana (or similar)

Day 16 - Rural Tuscany – Florence – Lucca

Today we’ll turn our attention to Florence: the birthplace of the Renaissance and home of some of the world’s most treasured masterpieces. A local guide will bring the city alive as we stroll by the likes of the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio on a walking tour. Then, as the afternoon turns to dusk, we’ll press on to lovely Lucca.

Day 17 - Lucca – Pisa – Lucca

Prepare to see an Italian icon up close today as we pay a visit to the Campo Dei Miracoli: home to the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa. There will be plenty of time for photographing this iconic landmark and uncovering the acoustic wonders of the Baptistry of St John before returning to Lucca. This afternoon, we’ll have the chance to explore the cobblestone streets at our own pace. Accommodation: Hotel Alla Corte degli Angeli (or similar)

Day 18 - Lucca – Camogli and Portofino  Ligurian Riviera

It’s time to experience the glitz and glamour of the Italian Riviera! Today we’ll make stops at romantic Camogli and glittering Portofino before settling along the Liguruan Riviera.  This evening, take some time to wander along the beautiful seafront – taking in the pastel-coloured houses andelegant hotels.

Day 19 - Ligurian – Alba – Langhe Region

Rise and shine – this morning we’ll venture to the breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Piedmont region. We’ll head out into the rolling hills of Alba to join a truffle hunt with a local farmer and his dog. Afterwards, we’ll continue our journey south to the enchanting Langhe region where we’ll enjoy some free time before a sumptuous group dinner. Accommodation: Hotel Santa Vittoria (or similar)

Day 20 - Langhe Region - Barolo-Asti- Lake Orta – Lake Maggiore

Away from the coast and onwards to Barolo, in Piedmont: a region of rich red wines and luxurious cuisine. There’s a treat in store for the bon vivants among us – we’ll be visiting a local distillery near Asti to taste some local liquors. Later, we’ll hit the road to the captivating Lake Orta: a tranquil retreat sitting pretty at the bottom of the imposing Monte Mottarone. Then: from one blissful Italian lake to another! Lake Maggiore will be the final stop on today’s scenic journey.

Day 21 - Lake Maggiore

Today we’ll leave dry land behind us and set sail for the Borromean Island: a charming collection of islets located in the western corner of the lake. Get ready to explore idyllic Isola Madre and the pretty harbour of Isola dei Pescatori. We’ll also wander around the Baroque Borromeo Palace on Isola Bella with a local guide before we return to shore.After a light lunch, we’ll have some free time to spend at our leisure.

Day 22 - Lake Maggiore – Lake Como – Sondrio

After bidding a fond farewell to Lake Maggiore we will venture along the shores of stunning Lake Como. Passing lakeside villages draped in opulence, here we’ll receive a rare insight into how the rich and famous live. Continuing our journey, we’ll stop to taste some local wine before arriving at Sondrio – our home for the night.

Day 23 - Sondrio – Lake Molveno – Trento

Today we’ll shine the spotlight on one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy: the spectacular Lake Molveno – a swathe of iridescent blue that lies at the foot of the Brenta Dolomites. Then, our Tour Leader will take us on a leisurely stroll around the mountain city of Trento before we settle in for tonight’s farewell dinner.

Day 24 - Trento – Verona – Venice

Filled with impressive ruins and romantic hotspots, fair Verona beckons today. After taking in the city highlights on an orientation tour, we’ll board the mini-coach one last time for the journey to our show-stopping finale: the floating city of Venice.

Pricing

*Pricing is per person twin share correct as at 19 September and subject to change & availablity. Cabins on guarantee basis.