Tutta Italia and Sicily with Aeolian Islands

Welcome to Europamundo! We’ll transfer you to the hotel and you’ll have some free time. In the afternoon, you’ll find information about the start of your tour on the boards located at the hotel reception.


IMPORTANT: Please note that hotel check-in time is typically at 14:00 p.m. If you need early room access, consider booking an additional night at the start of your trip.
If you have booked additional nights, your room will be prepared upon arrival, but your trip guide will generally only contact you when the scheduled activities begin. At reception, you’ll find a sign with contact details and assistance hours for our staff. Until the tour begins, your schedule is free, and the hotel staff can assist with any inquiries.


Optional activities: During your trip, your guide may offer optional activities. We recommend booking these activities well in advance through the Europamundo app or your "My Trip" link to ensure availability. Last-minute bookings may result in limited availability (e.g., tickets, coach seats).


Note: The timings in this itinerary are indicative. The guide may adjust schedules as needed to make sure you have the best experience.

08:30 a.m. - In the morning, we’ll go on a 2-and-a-half-hour panoramic tour of the capital of Italy, one of the most influential cities in Western civilization. We’ll explore Rome by coach, adhering to the city’s strict regulations for tourist coaches. During the tour, you´ll get to know ancient Rome: the Colosseum, the Arch of Constantine, the Theatre of Marcellus, Capitoline Hill, the Roman Forums, Circus Maximus, the Basilica of Saint Mary in Cosmedin with the Bocca della Verità (the Mouth of Truth), Republican temples, the Baths of Caracalla, the Aurelian Walls, the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the Archbasilica of Saint John Lateran, the Minor Basilica of Saint Mary in Domnica alla Navicella, the Pyramid of Cestius, Porta San Paolo, Lungotevere Avenue with the Babylonian-style Jewish Synagogue, Tiber Island, and the exterior of Castel Sant´Angelo.


This tour will finish at St. Peter´s Square in the Vatican. The Vatican Museums are closed on Sundays, so, if you are interested, we recommend visiting at this time. For the most curious travelers, our guide will offer an optional visit after the city tour, where you’ll be able to see in more detail the most notable rooms of the Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and the Basilica of St. Peter. Free time in the afternoon. Optionally, our guide will offer a tour of the squares and fountains.


06:30 p.m. - In the evening, we’ll provide a transfer to the Trastevere area, known for its traditional little restaurants.
08:30 p.m. - Return to hotel.

Enjoy a full day of free time to continue exploring the city. Today, we recommend an optional excursion to Naples, Capri, and Pompeii.

Total distance covered: 295 km.


Scenery: Beautiful landscapes in Lazio, Umbria, and Tuscany; hills and very picturesque villages.


07:30 a.m. - Departure from Rome. We’ll head north towards Umbria.
09:15 a.m. - Orvieto. We’ll arrive in this medieval city located on a large summit. First, we’ll visit the marvelous viewpoint offering stunning views of the city and its walls. Then, we’ll take the cable car (included) to the medieval center, where the cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian Gothic art, stands proudly. The city also features a network of underground tunnels used as shelters and water reserves during wartime. After that, you’ll have time to explore its charming streets that transport us to another era.


11:30 a.m. - Departure from Orvieto.
01:15 p.m. - Castiglione del Lago. Nestled on the shores of Lake Trasimeno, this picturesque historic village offers spectacular views over the water. Enjoy time to stroll and have lunch in this enchanting setting.


03:00 p.m. - Departure from Castiglione del Lago towards Tuscany.
04:30 p.m. - Siena. We’ll arrive in this magnificent city, rich in medieval history. You’ll have free time to explore the center with its narrow streets, towers, and palaces, including the famous Piazza del Campo and the Cathedral, before we head to the hotel at 07:00 p.m.

Total distance covered: 110 km.


Scenery: Pleasant landscapes throughout the journey. Hills adorned with olive groves and vineyards where the famous Chianti wine is produced.


08:30 a.m. – Departure from Siena. We’ll travel through the picturesque Tuscan countryside.
09:00 a.m. - Monteriggioni. Time to explore this enchanting medieval walled village.


10:00 a.m. – Departure from Monteriggioni. We’ll continue through the lush vineyards of the Chianti region.
10:45 a.m. - San Gimignano – a charming town, renowned for its towering medieval architecture and beautifully preserved historic center. We’ll have time to stroll and enjoy lunch.


01:30 p.m. – Departure from San Gimignano.
02:45 p.m. - Florence. We’ll stop to take a picture at the Michelangelo viewpoint, offering one of the most stunning views of the city. For those interested in art, we recommend visiting some of Florence´s magnificent museums, such as the Uffizi Gallery (Italy’s finest art gallery) or the Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo´s original David.

09:00 a.m. - We’ll start with a city tour led by a local guide through Florence, one of the most visited cities in the country. This city, known as the cradle of the Renaissance, has inspired some of the most influential artists and thinkers in history, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Botticelli, and Raphael. Highlights include the Gothic Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze), the ancient stone bridge (Ponte Vecchio) with its goldsmith stores, and Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city with the town hall in a medieval building. We’ll spend about two hours exploring these sites on foot.


Today, you’ll have plenty of free time, which we suggest spending with a stroll through the artistic center of the city. Visit the Ponte Vecchio with its shopping arcades and explore the majestic squares.

Total distance covered: 317 km.


Scenery: Today is a day by the sea. The Ligurian Rivera coastline offers some of the most beautiful scenery and coastal gems in Europe.


07:30 a.m. – Departure from Florence.
09:15 a.m. - Pisa. We’ll be required to drop you off at the tourist bus parking area. From there, we’ll include a ride on the tourist train to access the monumental site. You’ll have time to explore the impressive complex of Pisa, featuring the Leaning Tower, Baptistery, and Cathedral.


11:00 a.m. – Departure from Pisa. We’ll continue traveling along the Mediterranean coast. Along the way, we’ll pass the Carrara Marble Mountains, which appear as if they are covered in snow.
12:45 p.m. - Levanto. We’ll arrive by train (tickets included) to one of its charming towns (normally Vernazza, but on peak tourism dates, it could be Manarola or Corniglia, very similar towns that are somewhat less crowded).


The train is scheduled to depart at 01:05 p.m. (subject to change), taking us through long tunnels next to the sea into the Cinque Terre region. Buses can’t access this area because of its steep, mountainous terrain. The area remained isolated, preserving its traditions. Today, it is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.


01:30 p.m. - Vernazza - Arrival by train. We’ll arrive in one of the five villages of the Cinque Terre region, which retains its coastal character. Highlights include the Santa Margherita Church, built in 1318 on the seashore. Time for lunch.


03:44 p.m. – Departure from Vernazza (time subject to change). We’ll return by train to Levanto, where our bus will continue along the coast towards Genoa.


Note: The train to Cinque Terre is a regular commuter service, not a tourist train. During peak tourism times, there can be long waits as trains may be full, and seat reservations are not available. In some cases, the journey might be done standing. If this happens, we recommend walking to the monumental site, which is approximately 900 meters away.


05:45 p.m. - Genoa - Arrival. The city where Christopher Columbus was born. Time to explore its monumental center.

Total distance covered: 170 km.


Note: By boat, we’ll reach the enclave of Portofino. It’s advisable to wear warm clothing to enjoy the trip on deck.


08:30 a.m. – Departure from Genoa. We’ll travel along the stunning Italian Riviera.
09:00 a.m. - Santa Margherita Ligure.
10:15 a.m. - We’ll take a boat for a 20-minute crossing to Portofino, one of the most exclusive destinations in Europe. Enjoy some free time to explore this charming town.


12:00 p.m. - We’ll return to Santa Margherita, a delightful coastal town. There will be time for a leisurely walk and lunch.


Note: During winter, weather conditions may prevent the boat to Portofino from operating. In such cases, we’ll spend more time in Santa Margherita. If you wish, you can take an urban minibus to Portofino (service quality may be poor, with sometimes long waits).


02:00 p.m. – Departure from Santa Margherita.
04:30 p.m. – Milan. Free time until 07:30 p.m. We recommend a stroll through its historic center, bustling with commercial life, and home to the magnificent Gothic cathedral.

Total distance covered: 360 km.


Scenery: We’ll see the beautiful region of the Italian Lakes; the mountain scenery with snow-peaked summits and large Alpine lakes surrounded by picturesque villages is unforgettable.


Note: Bring some warm clothes; you may need them for the boat trips. On days with bad weather, our stop in Stresa might be shorter.


07:30 a.m. – Departure from Milan. We’ll take the motorway to the great lakes. First, we’ll travel to Lake Orta; its isolated position and smaller size give it a special charm.
09:00 a.m. - Orta San Giulio - A beautiful, intact medieval town by the lake. In the center of the lake, we’ll immediately see the Island of San Giulio with its monastery. We’ll take a small tourist train to the town and then sail across the lake on hired boats to the island. We’ll have time to explore the town and the island.


11:00 a.m. – Departure from Orta San Giulio. We’ll travel to Lake Maggiore.
11:45 a.m. - Stresa - Arrival in this tourist town by Lake Maggiore. You’ll have time to stroll and enjoy lunch. If you wish, there’s also an opportunity to take a boat trip to the Borromean Islands located just off the town’s shore.


03:45 p.m. – Departure from Stresa. We’ll leave the mountains and travel through the industrious areas of the Po Valley.
07:30 p.m. - Verona.

Note: During the winter months, the Orta train does not operate. If that is the case, you can access the medieval town by walking approximately 800 meters from the bus parking lot.

Total distance covered: 130 km.


Scenery: A picturesque entrance to Verona over its large bridge.


Verona – You’ll have some time to explore the enchanting city of Romeo and Juliet.


11:30 a.m. - Departure from Verona.


Note: Depending on the time of year, sunlight, and traffic conditions, we might visit Verona upon arrival from the lakes. In these cases, we’ll leave for Venice earlier.


01:00 p.m. - Venice. We’ll arrive at the port of Tronchetto and take a short boat ride to Venice. To get to know this magical city, we’ll include a visit to St. Mark’s Square with a local guide. You will also see the famous Murano glasswork. Afterwards, enjoy some free time—perhaps a gondola ride?


07:30 p.m. - Evening transfer to the hotel, normally in Mestre or Marghera.

At the time your guide says, we will make a transfer to the airport to catch a domestic flight includedin your trip. On arrival at destination we will give you another hotel transfer. Your guide will contact you at the end of the afternoon or you can consult the information in your hotel reception.

NB: remember that on domestic flights, the luggage normally allowed is one suitcase of up to 20 kg in the hold. Passengers must pay for all excess luggage directly to the airline

Total distance covered: 40 km.


09:00 a.m. – Today, we’ll embark on a guided city tour of Palermo with a local expert. Highlights include the cathedral, famous for its blend of architectural styles and royal tombs (admission included), and the Palazzo dei Normanni, a former royal palace with fountains, markets, and gardens. We’ll also visit Monreale to see its cathedral (admission included), a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its breathtaking golden mosaics that adorn the entire interior. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure.


Note: For smaller groups, the tour may be conducted as part of a regular excursion offered by local companies instead of a private tour.

Total distance covered: 240 km.

Scenery: Northern Sicily’s landscapes and the Tyrrhenian Sea coast.

08:30 a.m. – After breakfast, we’ll depart from Palermo, following the scenic Tyrrhenian Sea coast.
09:45 a.m. – Arrival in Cefalù, a charming coastal town renowned for its Norman cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique architecture and stunning mosaics. The historic center is a delightful mix of narrow streets, sea views, and commercial and tourist life. You’ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch.

01:30 p.m. – Departure from Cefalù. We’ll leave the coast behind and head into the mountainous interior.
02:15 p.m. – Arrival in Castelbuono, a quaint town nestled in the mountains. You’ll experience the peacefulness of Sicily’s inland villages and admire the town’s medieval walls, castle, and picturesque streets.

03:30 p.m. – Departure from Castelbuono. We’ll return to the Tyrrhenian Sea coast.
05:00 p.m. – Arrival in Tindari, where we’ll visit the Sanctuary of Tindari, perched high on a mountain with stunning views of the sea. This renowned pilgrimage site is home to the Black Madonna and offers breathtaking scenery. Nearby, you can also explore the ruins of an ancient Greek polis.

06:00 p.m. – Departure from Tindari.
06:45 p.m. – Arrival in Milazzo, a bustling port city with views of the volcanic Aeolian Islands.

Total distance covered by road: 95 km.

Scenery: Volcanic landscapes of the Aeolian Islands in the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Notes:
-We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing swimwear if you want to experience the mud baths on Vulcano. It’s also a good idea to bring a jacket so you can enjoy the ferry decks.
-Please be aware that our itinerary may change based on the ferry schedules.

Our day will be filled with excitement as we journey to the mythical islands that evoke the legends of Greek gods and heroes. Named after Aeolus, the God of the Winds, this archipelago is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its ongoing volcanic activity. Today, we’ll visit two of the Aeolian Islands.

09:00 a.m. – After breakfast, we’ll head to the port to catch a ferry to Lipari. The ferry is scheduled to depart at 09:30 a.m. Enjoy the ride, and don’t miss the chance to go up to the top deck!
11:45 a.m. – Arrival in Lipari, the largest of the Aeolian Islands, named after the son of Aeolus. You’ll have time for lunch and to explore the most charming island in the archipelago, with its historic center, castle, and vibrant tourist atmosphere.

02:30 p.m. – Departure from Lipari. We’ll board another ferry that will take us to Vulcano in less than half an hour, the second Aeolian Island on our itinerary.
02:55 p.m. – Arrival in Vulcano, the legendary site where Hephaestus, the forger of Zeus’s lightning bolts and Poseidon’s trident, had his forge. The island is filled with the distinctive smell of sulfur and dotted with active fumaroles, creating a truly distinctive environment. Dominated by its crater, Vulcano boasts hot water beaches and the chance to bathe in sulfurous thermal waters. Their mud is renowned for its skin benefits. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind experience.

05:50 p.m. – Departure from Vulcano. We’ll take a ferry back to Sicily.
07:30 p.m. –Milazzo. From here, we’ll continue our journey to Taormina.

09:00 p.m. – Arrival in Taormina, marking the end of our day.

Note: During the summer or on special dates, accommodation may be arranged in Messina instead of Taormina.

Total distance covered: 320 km.

Scenery: Inland Sicily, Mediterranean mountain landscapes.

After breakfast, enjoy a stroll through the enchanting city of Taormina, situated at the foot of Mount Etna. Winston Churchill once described it as “the most beautiful place on earth.” You’ll have time to explore the vibrant old town, where the Greek theater is beautifully set against the breathtaking landscape.

11:00 a.m. – Departure from Taormina as we head toward the island’s interior.
12:45 p.m. – Arrival in Caltagirone, a city designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich Baroque heritage. You’ll get to ride a little tourist train (included), where you’ll learn about the city’s rich history and key landmarks. Caltagirone is also the ceramic capital of Sicily, as seen in its numerous shops, workshops, and iconic sites, including the famous 142-step staircase, each step uniquely decorated with colorful tiles.

03:00 p.m. – Departure from Caltagirone.
03:45 p.m. –Villa Romana del Casale (admission included). You’ll have time to explore this World Heritage Site, a remarkable example of a Roman villa, showcasing the grandeur of agrarian life in the Roman Empire. The villa’s 4th-century architecture is exceptionally well-preserved, and its mosaics, which decorate nearly every room, are among the most beautiful in the Roman world.

05:15 p.m. – Departure from Villa Romana del Casale as we continue through the mountainous interior of the island.
07:30 p.m. – Palermo.

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.

Note: Please be aware that the hotel check-out time is usually 10:00 a.m. You can leave your luggage in reception upon check-out, allowing you to explore the city without carrying your bags. You can retrieve your luggage at your convenience later in the day. If you require additional time to use your room, we recommend booking an extra night at the end of your tour.