Italy Plus
12 day tour from US$1599
Tour Type: In-depth Experience
 
 

HIGHLIGHT

Map of Italy Plus tour - click to enlarge

Highlights:
  • Brussels
  • Luxembourg
  • Lucerne
  • Venice
  • Rome
  • Florence
  • Pisa
  • Italian Riviera
  • Geneva
  • Paris
  • Dover
 

ITINERARY

 
Italy Plus
Day 1 - London - Brussels
A warm welcome from our Tour Director as we drive to Dover for our Channel crossing to Calais in France. From here we travel along into Belgian Flanders to Brussels, the capital of Belgium and of the E.E.C. This afternoon we visit the Grand' Place and see the Manneken Pis. Tonight, why not try some local cuisine in the rue des Bouchers? (Continental breakfast)

Hotel: Ibis Brussels Expo Atomium

 
Day 2 -Brussels - Lake Lucerne
An early start today as we head through the hilly Ardennes to the Duchy of Luxembourg, perched on the banks of the Rivers Alzette and Petrusse. We see the Grand Ducal Palace, before continuing into the Lorraine region of France, via Metz, and through the Vosges Mountains to the border with Switzerland at Basel. Enjoy views of the snow-capped Alps on our approach to Lake of Lucerne. (Continental breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: Mothotel Pilatusblick

 
Day 3 - Lake Lucerne - Venice (Mestre) (2 nights)
A short orientation of Lucerne this morning shows us the Lion Monument, before free time. Maybe take an excursion to a nearby mountain or shop for Swiss watches and chocolates in the Old Town. Next we're off on a scenic drive to the St. Gotthard area and the Ticino, the Italian-speaking area of Switzerland. Then, via the lake of Lugano to the Italian border and awesome views of Lake Como en route to Milan and the Lombardy Plain. Finally, past vineyards and Palladian villas, to magical Venice. (Continental breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: San Giuliano (2 nights)

 
Day 4 - Venice orientation & at leisure
Our day begins with a cruise along the Giudecca Canal past majestic churches and gracious buildings to St. Mark's Square. Here we see the Bridge of Sighs, Doges' Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. We also witness the art of glass-blowing in one of the oldest workshops. After time is your own, why not explore the myriad islands in the Lagoon and enjoy a delicious seafood lunch? (Continental breakfast / Dinner)

 
Day 5 - Venice (Mestre) - Rome (2 nights)
Today we cross the Veneto Plain head up into the Apennine Mountains as we travel into Tuscany and Umbria. Then past the hilltop towns of Orvieto and Orte, we enter the Latium and arrive in its capital, the 'Eternal City', Rome, for two nights. (Continental breakfast)

Hotel: Ergife Palace (2 nights)

 
Day 6 - Rome at leisure
Our guided morning sightseeing tour features St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican and views of the Forum and Colosseum. Later, perhaps join an excursion to the old Appian Way with its mysterious Catacombs. Tonight, why not feast on Roman specialities and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure a safe return one day? (Continental breakfast)

 
Day 7 - Rome - Bay of Naples
Today we pass the vineyards of Frascati and the Castelli Romani to the fertile province of the Campania. We arrive in the Bay of Naples, where there's a chance to take a trip to the Isle of Capri with its dream-like villas - an opportunity not to be missed! (Continental breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: Hotel Stabia

 
Day 8 - Bay of Naples - Florence
This morning before we depart why not visit the excavations at Pompeii? Later our journey takes us past the Abbey of Monte Cassino and into the Chianti Hills to the Renaissance city of Florence. There's time at leisure to shop for quality leather and gold or perhaps visit one of the museums. Then we enjoy a panoramic view from Michelangelo Square before heading to our hotel. (Continental breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: Hotel Delta

 
Day 9 - Florence (Calenzano) - Genoa (Arenzano)
After breakfast we're off toward the coast, making a stop in Pisa, where we visit the Square of Miracles and see the Cathedral, plus its famous Leaning Tower! From here, we travel along the Italian Riviera highway to the charming resort of Lavagna where this evening we will have dinner at our hotel. (Continental breakfast / Dinner)

Hotel: Punta San Martino

 
Day 10 - Genoa (Arenzano) - Geneva (Annemasse)
Today's journey takes us via Genoa Columbus birthplace, cross the Ligurian Alps into the Po valley. Then we continue pass the Alessandria and Aosta before taking the Grand St. Bernard Tunnel through the Italian Alps into Switzerland, following the shores of Lake Leman to Geneva. Here an orientation shows us the United Nations' Building, the Reformation Monument and English Gardens. Tonight, why not try some local cuisine? (Continental breakfast)

Hotel: Alpes de Geneve

 
Day 11 - Geneva (Annemasse) - Paris
After breakfast we drive into the Burgundy region of France. We'll enjoy a scenic drive past vineyards, châteaux and meadows to its capital Paris, and the final night of our tour. This evening, why not celebrate by going out on the town and sampling some of that famous French cuisine? Paris at night is a city unparalleled in beauty! (Continental breakfast)

Hotel: Kyriad Bercy Expo

 

Day 12 - Paris sightseeing - London
Today's guided sightseeing includes views of Champs Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. Then free time for some last minute souvenir shopping. Later, we drive across the Somme Battlefields to reach Calais port for our cruise to the White Cliffs of Dover, and by coach back to London. (Continental breakfast)

 

 
WHAT'S INCLUDED

Italy Plus What's Included

Exciting Highlights
  • Brussels: Orientation includes the Grand' Place and Manneken Pis.
  • Luxembourg: Visit this small Duchy.
  • Lucerne: Orientation shows us the Lion Monument and medieval Old Town.
  • Venice: Canal cruise by vaporetto seeing the Bridge of Sighs, Doges' Palace and St. Mark's Basilica. Visit a traditional Venetian glass-blowing factory.
  • Rome: Sightseeing features St. Peter's Basilica and views of the Colosseum and the Forum.
  • Florence: Magnificent view from Piazzale Michelangelo. Admire Florentine leatherwork.
  • Pisa: See the famous Leaning Tower.
  • Italian Riviera: Scenic Drive.
  • Geneva: Orientation shows us the United Nations' Building and the Reformation Monument.
  • Paris: Sightseeing includes views of Champs Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral and much more.
  • Dover: See the White Cliffs.
Fabulous Sightseeing
Sightseeing/ orientation in Brussels, Luxembourg, Lucerne, Venice, Rome, Florence, Genoa, Geneva and Paris.

 
Unbeatable Features
  • Continental breakfast daily.
  • 6 Three course dinners – see day by day itinerary.
  • All hotel service charges, local taxes, baggage handling and hotel tips are included.
  • Services throughout the tour of a professional multi-lingual Tour Director.
  • The services of a Trafalgar Representative at your Trafalgar London hotel.
  • Specialised local guide in Rome and Paris.
  • Cross-Channel transportation.
  • Touring by luxury air-conditioned coach with reclining seats.
  • Complimentary pick-up and drop off at your Trafalgar London Hotel on the day of departure and return of the coach tour.
  • CostSaver travel bag and tour wallet containing comprehensive documents.
Airport Transfers
  • London Gateways: A Trafalgar bonus – transfers can be expensive, particularly between the Airport and central London. When you book your Costsaver tour with Trafalgar your transfers to and from the airport are included. It's that simple. Trafalgar has included a Free transfer to and from your airport and Central London.
  • Important – Please Note: Passengers will only be entitled to transfers to and from London Airports providing the following conditions are met:
  • You are staying at a London hotel, booked by Trafalgar, on the night of your arrival and the night prior to the date of your departure.
  • Flights are either booked by Trafalgar or detailed information on flights is provided by your Travel Agent not less than 21 days prior to departure.
  • Only one included transfer both inbound and outbound per tour is included by Trafalgar. Transfers are by express train to a Central London Rail Station.
  • Heathrow Express operates between 05.10-23.30. Gatwick Express operates inbound services between 05.20-23.45 and outbound services from 04.30-23.45. Transfers outside of these times are at the passengers own expense.
  • In the event of unforeseen events (road or rail works, demonstrations, strikes) Trafalgar will not be held responsible for delayed or cancelled transfers.
  • No refund is available for passengers not utilising this service.
  • Why not upgrade to a Hotelink transfer from the Airport to-the-door of your Trafalgar London hotel? (please ask Trafalgar or your travel agent of the additional upgrade price per person when booking)
  • European Gateways: With Trafalgar all passengers will receive complimentary arrival and departure transfers on the scheduled arrival and departure day of their tour at the times specified below. Please ensure your Travel Agent reserves your flight to co-ordinate with the transfer times shown.
  • Trafalgar Bonus - Passengers who book Trafalgar's Land+Air package and who arrive or depart outside of these specified times on the scheduled arrival and departure day of the tour will also be provided with a transfer.
  • Passengers arriving before or leaving after the scheduled tour days are not entitled to a transfer but may book and purchase one through Trafalgar providing that they also purchase the additional pre and/or post tour hotel night(s) from Trafalgar. Please ask for prices of transfers at the time of booking your extra night accommodation.
  • Land only passengers arriving or departing on the scheduled tour arrival or departure days but whose flights don't coincide with the listed transfer times below may also book and purchase these transfers. Flight details must be provided to Trafalgar not less than 21 days before the flight departure.
 
OPTIONALS

Italy Plus Optional Excursions

Note:
All optional excursions listed are for 2004/2005 please use the information as a guide only.

 
F8 - PARIS. Illuminations and Dinner
After an unforgettable dinner in typical Parisian style, drinks included, we take a drive through the city. By night, Paris is a city transformed - no other city has such striking illuminations, such glamour or romance. Amongst the splendours we see the Place de la Concorde, Arc de Triomphe, Cathedral of Notre Dame, Champs Elysées and the Eiffel Tower.
60.00 (€)

 
F9 - PARIS. Dinner & Montmartre or Seine Cruise or Eiffel Tower Visit. Bon appetit!
Enjoy dinner and drinks in a typical Parisian restaurant and toast our new-found friends on tour. Then visit Montmartre, the old artists’ quarter made famous in the paintings of Toulouse-Lautrec and Utrillo. Dominated by the brilliant white dome of Sacré Coeur Basilica, its fascinating narrow streets and outdoor cafés give a real flavour of Paris life. Alternatively, after dinner we will enjoy a floodlit Seine Cruise or ascend to the second level of the Eiffel Tower.
60.00 (€)

 
F10 - PARIS. Illuminations & the Eiffel Tower or the Seine Cruise
No other city has such striking illuminations, best appreciated on our guided sightseeing night drive. We take in the Place de la Concorde, Champs Elysées, Arc de Triomphe and of course the famed Eiffel Tower from the Trocadero. To complete this introduction, we will admire the city from on high by ascending to the second stage on the Eiffel Tower. Alternatively, embark on the ever popular river boats along the Seine.
30.00 (€)

 
F12 - PARIS. The Louvre & Seine Cruise or Montmartre, or Eiffel Tower
We start witha conducted tour of one of the finest art galleries in the world - the Louvre. A chance to admire theMona Lisa and the Venus de Milo amongst the many thousands of exhibits in this former Royal Palace.In addition, you may wish to admire the city from on high and ascend to the second stage of the EiffelTower. Alternatives are a trip on the ever-popular riverboats along the Seine, or a funicular ride up toartistic Montmartre. (On occasions when the Louvre is closed, we will visit the Sainte Chapelle). Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
44.00 (€)

 
F13 - PARIS. Versailles - The Palace and Gardens
We leave the bustle of the city for thesplendour and magnificence of Versailles. Created by the “Sun King” Louis XIV, the palace becamethe envy of every other European ruler. Our guide takes us through the State apartments, including the famous Hall of Mirrors. All of this enhanced with the use of our excellent audio system. Afterwards, take a stroll through the meticulous tree-lined gardens.
57.00 (€)

 
F38 - PARIS. Dinner and Cabaret
Dinner with wines included at one of the most prestigious cabaret shows in town! Enjoy an evening of exciting acts, stunning tableaux and wonderful entertainment - including, of course, the world famous Can-Can. A night in Paris that you will never forget!
110.00 (€)

 
F39 - PARIS. Le Grand Louvre or Musee D'Orsay
The Louvre - the biggest and bestknown museum in the world was once the palace for the kings. Follow the expert guide through the sumptuous maze of galleries to see the main attractions including Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece - the 'Mona Lisa'. Alternatively, explore the world of the Impressionists in the prize winning converted railway station of the Musee d'Orsay. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
38.00 (€)

 
I1 - POMPEII
A guided tour of the excavations of Pompeii, the perfectly preserved Roman town which was engulfed by the eruption of Vesuvius in AD 79. A unique opportunity to glimpse a moment of Roman everyday life, frozen for over 2000 years.
27.00 (€)

 
I5a - BAY OF NAPLES. Capri Excursion with Lunch
Cruise the Tyrrenhian Sea to the legendary island of Capri. Here we see the major highlights of this unforgettable place. The spectacular drive up to Anacapri reveals vistas across the azure waters of the Bay of Naples. Then we descend the short distance to Capri Town, where we visit the luxuriant Caesar Augustus gardens for views of the Faraglioni rocks, and have time to savour the cosmopolitan mood of the Piazzetta before a funicular takes us down to the Marina. A light lunch will be included during our visit.
63 (without lunch 53) (€)

 
I7 - ROME. Evening Tour: Fountains and Dinner
A lighthearted introduction to the “Eternal City”. Make sure of a safe return to Rome as you toss coins in to the Trevi Fountain. Drive along the glamorous Via Veneto - famed as the setting of “la dolce vita”, and the splendour of the monuments in magnificent Piazza Venezia. Then relax and enjoy a typical Italian meal with drinks included.
55.00 (€)

 
I11 - ROME. Tivoli and Dinner
An excursion to the ancient Sabine town of Tivoli situated a few miles outside Rome to enjoy the gardens and fountains of the Villa D’Este. You will visit its grottos and pavilions, the Avenue of a Hundred Fountains, and the Dragon Fountain of the Organ. We end the evening with a typical Italian dinner, wine, soft drinks and music.
58 (without dinner 39) (€)

 
I14 - ROME. Ancient and Christian Rome
Explore Rome’s past. Visit the Catacombs where the early Christians assembled to escape persecution and which were used as underground cemeteries. Then, on to the best preserved of the Roman Temples, the Pantheon - today used as a Christian church! On some tours a visit to the Chuch of St. Peter in Chains to see Michelangelo’s statue of Moses, will be visited instead of the Pantheon. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
32.00 (€)

 
I15 - ROME. Vatican Museums & the Sistine Chapel
An extension to the included sightseeing tour which allows us to admire the artistic masterpieces collected and commissioned by the Popes. See the famous Tapestry Gallery and Gallery of Maps then finally wonder at the masterpieces in the Sistine Chapel. Take your time - Michelangelo spent 11 years in the preparation of the vault and altar wall! Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
36.00 (€)

 
I16 - ROME. Roman Highlights
On certain departures, for operational reasons, tours I14 and I15 will be combined excluding the Pantheon visit. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
61.00 (€)

 
I18 - VENICE. Lagoon Cruise with Lunch or Dinner
A half day off the beaten track! We are taken by private boat to the nearby islands in the lagoon of Venice. See the island of Murano and the Hermitage of San Francesco del Deserto. Lunch or dinner is taken at the island of the ‘fisherman’ - Burano - a photographer’s paradise. Drinks are also included.
62.00 (€)

 
I19 - VENICE. Gondola Serenade
An ideal introduction to this unique and magical city. Enjoy a romantic gondola journey along canals full of character and colour, while musicians and singers entertain. See the Grand Canal with its magnificent and elegant palaces, witnesses of the past splendours of the ‘Serenissima’.
30.00 (€)

 
I23 - FLORENCE. Dinner, Wine & Music in the Chianti Hills
Our guided tour begins with the Academy of Fine Arts with its Michelangelo collection including the world famous statue of David. The statue established its creator as the leading sculptor of his day and ensured continued patronage for him by the Medici rulers of the city republic. We continue to the Duomo with its dome by Brunelleschi, Bell Tower by Giotto and the Paradise Doors of the Baptistry by Ghiberti. Finally we arrive in the political centre of Florence, Signoria Square. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
33.00 (€)
 
I25 - FLORENCE. Jewels of the Renaissance
A guided tour of the Accademia allows us to appreciate the most controversial sculpture in Italy, Michelangelo’s David. Then to the fascinating ‘Cortile’ of the Medici Palace. Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
32.00 (without the ‘Cortile’ 31.00) (€)

 
I35 - ROME. Visit to Piazza Navona followed by Roman dinner and concert of live musical entertainment
We will first visit Piazza Navona (when available) with its beautiful fountains and street artists before a short drive to one of Rome’s finest restaurants. Here we will enjoy a delicious dinner, punctuated by a concert of typical Italian songs and ‘bel canto’ for which this country is justifiably famous! Sit back, relax and imbibe the special Roman atmosphere – the wine or soft drinks are also included!
58.00 (without the visit to Piazza Navona or another Roman site or monument the price is 55.00) (€)

 
I40 - ROME. Introduction to Rome by Night
Cameras at the ready for the many magnificent sights awaiting us as we ‘do as the Romans do’ and start the evening with a ‘passegiata’ (evening stroll) along the Via Condotti to the world-famous Spanish Steps in Rome’s most fashionable shopping area. The ‘Campidoglio’, Piazza Venezia and so much more are included on this evening visit before we linger in Piazza Navona with its many pavement cafés and trattorias to admire the seventeenth century fountains and architecture. NB On certain departures, the Spanish Steps will be substituted by the Piazza Rotonda, dominated by the mighty Pantheon.
30.00 (€)

 
I49 - VENICE. Venice by night
A scintillating introduction to this magical city! First we cruise along the Grand Canal by private water taxis admiring the elegant Palazzos, illuminated by magnificent chandeliers. We see the Rialto Bridge and then reach the ‘most beautiful outdoor drawing room in the world’ - St. Mark’s Square. Here we will have time to wonder at the impressive architecture before enjoying an included drink at one of the chic ‘al fresco’ cafés whilst listening to the music of its own orchestra! We return to our coach on the mainland by private motor launch. (1 drink inc.)
40.00 (€)

 
I70 - ROME. Ancient and Baroque Christian sites
First we drive past the ancient baths of the Emperor Caracalla, scene of the ‘3 tenors concert’ in 1990, to the Catacombs outside the Roman Walls. Christians used these underground churches and cemeteries for assemblies and to escape persecution. Then on to visit the 5th century Church of St. Peter in Chains*, housing not only the chains which are said to have fettered St. Peter, but also one of Michelangelo’s greatest works of sculpture – Moses – a statue belonging to the mausoleum of Julius II. (* on certain departures the Church of St. Paul without the Walls will be visited instead of the Church of St. Peter in Chains) Our visit will be enhanced by the effective use of our excellent audio system.
32.00 (€)

 
I71 - VENICE. A guided tour of St. Mark’s Basilica & the Doges’ Palace
Accompanied by a local expert we are taken into the magnificent Doges’ Palace – home to the rulers of the Venetian republic for hundreds of years. We are shown the main highlights of the palace and its elegant courtyards, before entering the Byzantine Basilica of St. Mark the Evangelist, patron saint of the city of Venice. Here we admire the stunning golden mosaics and wonderful Byzantine architecture. (entrance fees included).
33.00 (€)

 
CH4 - LAKE GENEVA. Cruise & visit to Yvoire
Leaving the elegant guays of Geneva, our steamer cruises past the palatial mansions of the rich and famous, stopping at picturesque villages before arriving at our enchanting French destination - Yvoire. We explore its winding streets, lined with the old stone houses of former fishermen and dominated by the ancient ‘château’ of the Count and Countess. Then our motorcoach takes us through the rich fields of the Savoy back into Switzerland.
51.00 (sf)

 
CH5 - LAKE GENEVA. Mount Salève tour with Lunch/Dinner
Leaving Geneva for the French Alps we ascend the Salève mountain by cable-car for breathtaking views of city, lake and the highest mountain peaks. Our Savoyarde restaurant, perched on the limestone ridge, affords a memorable experience of French regional cuisine. Nearby walks will give you the opportunity to enjoy the alpine flora and views of Mont Blanc.
94.00 (sf)

 
CH6 - LAKE GENEVA. Cruise & Dinner/Lunch in Yvoire
Leaving the elegant quays of Geneva, our steamer cruises past the palatial mansions of the rich and famous, stopping at picturesque villages before arriving at our enchanting French destination - Yvoire. We explore its winding streets, lined with the old stone houses of former fishermen and dominated by the ancient ‘château’ of the Count and Countess. In this remarkable setting, we enjoy a delicious example of French gastronomy in one of its quaint restaurants. Drinks are included.
97.00 (sf)

 
CH7a - LUCERNE. Folklore Show with Drinks
Folklore Show with Drinks and Cheese Fondue.
66.00 (sf)

 
CH13 - LUCERNE. Mount Stanserhorn Excursion
Drive along the Lake of Lucerne to come to the village of Stans, terminal of one of Switzerland’s oldest mountain railways. We climb to the top by funicular railway and modern cable car to reach 6,300 feet - an excellent vantage from which to view the breathtaking scenery of Alpine Switzerland. Free time to take in the air and perhaps some refreshment before we descend and return to Lucerne.
66.00 (sf)

 

CH15 - LUCERNE. Lake Cruise & Stanserhorn
Admire the stunning lakeside landscapes as we cruise along the Lake of Lucerne. Later arriving in the village of Stans, where we can climb to the top by funicular railway and modern cable car to reach 6,300 feet - an excellent vantage from which to view the breathtaking scenery of Alpine Switzerland. Free time to take in the air and perhaps some refreshment before we descend and return to Lucerne.
100.00 (sf)
 

 

DATES & RATES

Departs On
Returns On
Land Price
Guaranteed Departure
Wed, 19 April 2006 Sun, 30 April 2006 $1599  
Wed, 26 April 2006 Sun, 7 May 2006 $1599  
Wed, 3 May 2006 Sun, 14 May 2006 $1599  
Wed, 24 May 2006 Sun, 4 June 2006 $1599  
Wed, 31 May 2006 Sun, 11 June 2006 $1599 Yes
Wed, 21 June 2006 Sun, 2 July 2006 $1599  
Wed, 5 July 2006 Sun, 16 July 2006 $1599  
Wed, 19 July 2006 Sun, 30 July 2006 $1599  
Wed, 26 July 2006 Sun, 6 August 2006 $1599  
Wed, 2 August 2006 Sun, 13 August 2006 $1599  
Wed, 16 August 2006 Sun, 27 August 2006 $1599 Yes
Wed, 23 August 2006 Sun, 3 September 2006 $1599  
Wed, 30 August 2006 Sun, 10 September 2006 $1599  
Wed, 6 September 2006 Sun, 17 September 2006 $1599  
Wed, 20 September 2006 Sun, 1 October 2006 $1599 Yes
Wed, 27 September 2006 Sun, 8 October 2006 $1599  
Wed, 4 October 2006 Sun, 15 October 2006 $1599  
*These prices are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking.

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