Country Roads of Italy, a Women-Only Tour
Experience Overview
Journey across the Italian peninsula on this 16-day women-only tour that stretches from the sapphire waters of the Amalfi Coast to the calming canals of Venice. On this small group tour, visit a winery run by the matriarchs of the family who are leading the way in making incredible wine and olive oil. Sail to the rock isle of Capri, where you can climb nearly 2,000 feet for unrivaled views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. In Perugia, learn the art of loom-weaving from a women-owned and -run weaving association and join a cocktail-making class in Florence. Conclude in Venice, cruising the canals to Burano, an idyllic, colorful island in the Venetian Lagoon where you’ll toast to a fantastic trip with artist and environmentalist Allison Zurfluh.
Highlights
Dining Summary
- 5 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 15 Breakfast (B)
Choice Highlights
- Siena: Visit the Basilica of St. Catherine with your Local Expert.
- Siena: Enjoy a tasting of Panforte, a traditional Tuscan dessert containing fruits and nuts.
Authentic Dining
- Rome: Savor dinner at a uniquely Roman restaurant, offering a perfect exploration of Lazio's typical flavors.
- San Gimignano: Ascend serpentine alleyways to the artisan gelato parlour of world champion gelato maestro, Sergio Dondoli for a taste of his finest frozen treats.
- Parma: At Ciaolatte Parmesan you will meet, Signor Paolo, a local passionate about Italian food and quality cheese. Witness the cheese-making and ageing process of Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Modena: Visit a producer of authentic balsamic vinegar.
- Burano: Cruise to the charming fisherman's island of Burano to enjoy a delicious dinner with wine and new-found friends.
- Lucca: Visit a traditional steam bakery and sample Buccellato, a sweet raisin bread.
Insight Choice
- Siena: Visit the Basilica of St. Catherine with your Local Expert.
- Siena: Enjoy a tasting of Panforte, a traditional Tuscan dessert containing fruits and nuts.
Make Travel Matter
- Perugia: Meet Marta, founder of weaving association that is owned and run by women. Learn how Marta offers employment opportunities for local women and, alongside her weavers, preserves the ancient craft of loom-weaving in an artisan workshop.In addition to safeguarding the unique patterns, the workshop contributes to the protection of Umbria’s cultural heritage. Most notably, the workshop actively empowers women and girls through its education and training programs, advancing Global Goal 5: Gender Equality and 11: Sustainable Cities & Communities.
- Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
- Burano: Full of curiosities, the shimmering waters of the island of Burano and the Venice Lagoon will inspire the mind of any curious traveler. Embrace the scenery and feel part of the local community when you visit Burano with local artist and environmentalist Allison Zurfluh. Allison uses her passion for the environment to support the maintenance of the Venice lagoon and its endangered species. She'll introduce you to the local fishermen before a short boat ride to discover the life of the lagoon and understand why this area is such an inspiration both for her work to protect the indigenous wildlife and also as an artist. Upon returning to land, sip a glass of prosecco and see Allison’s artwork. This experience addresses United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 5: Gender Equality, 14: Life Below Water, and 13: Climate Action.
Top Rated Highlights
- Rome: Discover ancient treasures of Rome with a passionate local. See Circus Maximus and the Ancient Forum, where Ancient Roman political life and law courts mingled with open-air markets and shops.
- Rome: Visit the Colosseum, still echoing with the thronging crowds and ghostly cries of gladiatorial combat.
- Sorrento: Perched upon the cliffs, lookout to see the mighty Mount Vesuvius across the Bay of Naples.
- Sorrento: Experience the social ritual of la passeggiata.
- Capri: Cruise by jetfoil to this famous isle through beautiful blue Mediterranean waters.
- Capri: Explore Capri town with your Local Expert and see the whitewashed houses, winding alleyways, small cafes, fashionable boutiques and artisans studios.
- Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
- Florence: See the historic neighborhood of the Santa Croce Basilica and witness local craftspersons at work during a gold and leatherwork demonstration.
- San Gimignano: Visit the Tuscan town of San Gimignano, often called the 'Medieval Manhattan' of Italy.
- Cinque Terre: Led by your Local Expert, visit this unique UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked away on the mountainous Italian Riviera coastline. Explore one of the five charming fishing villages for some memorable pictures.
- Venice: Delight in the magic of this charming city as you glide along the canals by gondola.
- Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
- Lucca: Explore the city of Lucca. Admire the churches, piazzas and palaces within the medieval ramparts.
- Pompeii: Walk with a Local Expert through the cobbled streets of this ill-fated town, frozen in time since the first century.
- Assisi: See St. Mary of the Angels Church and join your Local Expert to walk through the cobbled streets to St. Clare's Church and see the cathedral.
- Assisi: Discover why the Basilica of Saint Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of medieval Europe.
- Perugia: Led by your Local Expert, your orientation will explore the Old Town and show you Priors' Palace, Collegio del Cambio, the cathedral, the Great Fountain and main square.
Women-Only
- Rapolano Terme: Attracting health-seekers since the Etruscans, these hot springs offer healing and relaxation to countless guests. You’ll savor every moment of this opportunity to experience the therapeutic waters of the natural thermal spa reputed to restore both harmony and vitality to the body.
- Florence: In Florence, discover the art of creating your own cocktail, alcoholic and non-alcoholic, with a master mixologist. Learn the tools of the trade and shake or stir your way to successful cocktail-making. Your creation is a rewarding and delicious end to this experience.
- Torgiano: Visit an Umbrian winery where two sisters create outstanding wines. Founded by Giorgio Lungarotti, pioneer of modern Italian oenology, this winery supports quality production and sustainability. Today, the family legacy is carried on through the passion and skill of sisters Chiara and Teresa, their mother Maria Grazia and Teresa’s sons.
Trip Details
Product Code: 20867
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Deluxe
Transport: Private
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Family, 55+, Luxury
Tour Operator:
Insight Vacations (CA)
Supplier Code: 423.1665A
Starts: Rome, Italy
Finishes: Venice, Italy
Duration: 16 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Easy
Includes
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $8,635 ($540 /day)
Itinerary
2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Welcome to Rome, a glorious city filled with classic antiquities, medieval buildings, Renaissance palaces and baroque churches. Transfers depart from Rome's Fiumicino Leonardo da Vinci Airport for your hotel. Relax and settle in before joining your Travel Director and getting to know your fellow travelers over a delicious Welcome Dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals: Dinner with Wine
Today is devoted to The Eternal City. Join a Local Expert to discover the modern-day city and how people lived in Ancient Rome. See St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican City. Then cross the Tiber river to see the Circus Maximus and learn about the history, the construction and the legends of the iconic Colosseum on a guided visit. Imagine the roar of the spectators as you enter the arena and stroll around picturing the gladiators and their adoring fans.
Accommodation: Room 007 Select, Rome
Meals: Breakfast
Venture south leaving the region of Lazio for Campania. Drink in the views of the Bay of Naples and the distinctive outline of Mount Vesuvius as you reach the resort town of Sorrento.
Accommodation: Majestic Palace Hotel, Sorrento
Meals: Breakfast
Meet your Local Expert and cross the Bay of Naples to reach the beautiful Isle of Capri, a rock rising sheer from the Mediterranean. For 2,000 years, Capri has beckoned visitors from Tiberius Caesar to Gracie Fields. Arrive at the Marina Grande by boat and ascend to Capri town. Explore the narrow alleyways, browse in exclusive boutiques and wonder at the views over the Tyrrhenian Sea. Descend to the port by funicular railway and return to Sorrento. Travel along Italy’s finest coastline, the Amalfi Coast. Stop for a bird’s-eye view of the terraced houses of Positano.
Accommodation: Majestic Palace Hotel, Sorrento
Meals: Breakfast
Journey to the ancient Roman city of Pompeii to explore this extraordinary site with your Local Expert. Travel into the heart of Italy to enjoy free time in Todi, located on a hilltop pedestal overlooking a vineyard-covered plain. Savor the distinctly medieval ambiance during your orientation and admire the Piazza del Popolo where locals take their evening 'passeggiata'. Cap off the day dining at a local restaurant with a glass of Orvieto Classico wine - a magical culinary experience.
Accommodation: Fonte Cesia, Todi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Journey through the undulating splendor of the Umbrian hills where the glossy green vine leaves reflect the warm sunshine of the region. Nestled in this glorious scenery is a family-owned business run by the females of the family. Taste the flavors of the region including Umbrian wine and olive oil. Learn how they have developed their business and produced award-winning wines before tasting the results of their work.
Accommodation: Fonte Cesia, Todi
Meals: Breakfast
In Assisi see St. Clare’s Church and the cathedral. Continue to walk down the Via San Francesco and visit the huge Basilica of St. Francis with a Local Expert. Journey to beautiful Perugia - the jewel of Umbria. Your guided walking exploration begins in the main street of Perugia's Old Town. See the Collegio del Cambio, the splendid Priors' Palace, the Cathedral and the finely sculptured Great Fountain in the magnificent main square. In the evening there is the option to discover the edible treasures of a traditional Umbrian kitchen, accompanied with wines of the region.
Accommodation: Sangallo Palace Hotel, Perugia
Meals: Breakfast
In Perugia, explore more of this gem of a town. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you visit a women-run artisanal workshop and meet Marta, a recipient of a TreadRight Foundation grant. Learn how Marta and her weavers are preserving the ancient craft of loom-weaving. With the rest of your day at leisure, perhaps visit Cortona, one of the oldest hill towns in Tuscany. On this Optional Experience, journey to a recently unearthed Etruscan Temple before a guided exploration through the town's historic center with views of Lake Trasimeno and the Val di Chiana.
Accommodation: Sangallo Palace Hotel, Perugia
Meals: Breakfast
Embark on your journey passing Lake Trasimeno to renaissance Florence. Join a Local Expert to see the marble-clad cathedral, bell tower and Gates of Paradise on the baptistery. Enjoy time at leisure to explore Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at the fountains and sculptures along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. Wander the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods of gold and leather. This afternoon, learn the art of cocktail-making from a local mixologist during a tasty cocktail class. Later, soak up the waters of a natural thermal spa, renowned through the centuries for the beneficial effects on the body, delighting the Etruscans, Romans and modern-day visitors before arriving at your elegant hotel.
Accommodation: Relais Certosa, Florence
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
This morning, explore Siena with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the medieval Basilica of St. Catherine or alternatively, sample panforte, a traditional Tuscan dessert. Continue to the hilltop town of San Gimignano strikingly visible from every angle with its towers dominating the skyline and giving it the nickname the Medieval Manhattan of Tuscany. Enjoy tasting the award-winning frozen delights of master gelato maker, Sergio Dondoli, whose great inventions include innovative and mouth-watering flavor combinations. Journey through the rolling, cypress-clad hills and vineyards of Tuscany as you return to your hotel.
Accommodation: Relais Certosa, Florence
Meals: Breakfast
Travel to Lucca to view the churches, squares and palaces, perfectly preserved within encircling medieval ramparts. Pause a while and taste the lavish loaves of buccellato, Lucca's sweet raisin anise bread, said to be a favorite of the ancient Roman army. Later, you could take the opportunity to explore Pisa.
Accommodation: Villa La Principessa, Lucca
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Get ready to explore the Cinque Terre, or five villages, which for years were only accessible by foot. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Italy's most beautiful landscapes. Join a Local Expert in one of the picturesque fishing villages, before cruising along the rugged coastline (weather permitting). There is plenty of time to explore the old medieval quarter and popular sandy beach before returning to your hotel in Lucca.
Accommodation: Villa La Principessa, Lucca
Meals: Breakfast
Journey to the beautiful university town of Parma, world-famous for its local ham and cheese. Meet one of the locals, Paolo. Learn about the process of making Parmigiano-Reggiano as Signor Paolo shares with you his passions for Italian food, especially excellent quality Parmesan cheese. Taste samples of the famous Parmigiano-Reggiano, accompanied by a glass of wine.
Accommodation: Starhotels Du Parc, Parma
Meals: Breakfast
Visit one of Modena's top producers of authentic, traditional, artisan balsamic vinegar and take a master class to understand what makes this vinegar as expensive as top-rated wines. Continue through the Soave vineyards past Padua to Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. To the tune of accompanying musicians, you will be serenaded through the atmospheric canals as you glide by gondola past water-lapped doorways and rococo palaces.
Accommodation: Hilton Molino Stucky, Venice
Meals: Breakfast
Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during a visit to a traditional arts center where you can see how beautiful, handcrafted glass is made by expert glassblowers, safeguarding traditional skills. Visit St. Mark’s Square where the city’s former wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St. Mark’s Basilica and admire the Doge's Palace with its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. Cruise the islands of the Venetian Lagoon to arrive at Burano, famous for its candy colored houses. Over another MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, meet artist and environmentalist Allison Zurfluh for a boat ride and art show over a glass of Prosecco. Conclude your women-only tour over a sumptuous celebration dinner with wine, sampling the local specialties.
Accommodation: Hilton Molino Stucky, Venice
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Your departure transfer arrives at Venice Marco Polo Airport.
Meals: Breakfast
Similar Tours
Tour Operator
Insight Vacations (CA)
Part of The Travel Company (TTC) family of brands, Insight Vacations began operations in 1978 and is based in Cypress, CA. Journeys are featured to destinations, such as the U.S. and Canada, Europe, Latin America, North Africa, Asia, the UK and Ireland. The company offers are a variety of tours under the classifications of Regional Journeys, Country Roads, Discovery Journeys, Easy Pace trips, and Special Interest tours. Insight is the ideal name for the tour operator, as the journeys provided by Insight Vacations allow travelers to gain further insight into whatever destination they wish to explore. For example, Discovery Journeys are the ideal choice for first-time visitors to Europe. Itineraries include Dine-at-Home or Farm-to-Table experiences so travelers can learn more about how locals live and dine. Regional Journeys allow trip-goers to see a specific location in Europe that they have always wanted to see – Poland, Switzerland, Italy, etc. The carefully planned trips enable customers to immerse themselves in one specific region or country and to become acquainted with its culture, traditions, and people. For anyone seeking travel off the beaten track, Insight Vacations offers Country Roads – trips that lead travelers off the well-tread tourist trail to explore hidden gems where visitors can savor the local produce with Farm-to-Table dining. Some trips are offered under the Easy Pace travel style – the ideal trip choice for trip-goers who wish to slow their pace during their vacation. During these tours, vacationers stay at least 3 nights at each destination, giving them some additional time to explore a place and enjoy it. Regardless of the travel style, many of the vacations offered by Insight Vacations begin with Relaxed Starts – giving travelers time to sleep in a little, spend more time at breakfast, or explore an area on their own. The tour company prides itself on providing business class tours that features luxury coaches with 40 seats. While most coach touring operators provide vehicles with 53 seats, Insight Vacations has re-configured its motor coaches to hold up to 40 guests. This gives passengers extra leg room while traveling and offers them more space and privacy.
In Business Since 1978
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