2027 Treasures of Italy

Late this afternoon, we report to the airport and join the flight to Dubai.

We arrive in Dubai early this morning and after clearing Customs and Immigration formalities, we are met and transferred to our hotel for an overnight stay. There is time to rest up after the flight until mid-afternoon when we visit the Museum of the Future. One of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, the museum takes pride of place along the city’s superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation and launched on 22 February 2022, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a ‘living museum’, it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future’s limitless possibilities. Visitors have the chance to engage with this game-changing technology. Each floor of the museum is designed like an expansive, interactive movie set, brought to life by expert storytellers, technologists and visionary artists. There is time for exploration before we return to the hotel for dinner this evening.

We arrive in Rome early afternoon. On arrival we will be met and transferred to our hotel. The rest of the day is free until we meet for dinner this evening.

Something totally different today. The Italian’s love their food – for them it is one of the pleasures of life and a meal is an “event” and a very social occasion. This morning, we transfer to Ristorante La Carovana for a cooking class – a chance to learn about the delights of Italian food and its preparation and afterwards enjoy a 4-course lunch. This afternoon, afternoon we discover Imperial Rome with a treasure trove of historical sites and monuments including the Coliseum (outside view), the Roman Forum, the Palatine Hill and Circus Maximus.

A big day today, as we embark on a full day sightseeing tour of Rome. We glimpse into the history and wonder of the most powerful force in the development of Western civilization. This afternoon, we visit the Vatican and its museums and marvel at the beauty of Michelangelo’s ceiling in the Sistine Chapel before visiting St. Peters Basilica. This evening, we dine at a local restaurant.

Depart Rome after breakfast and begin your journey north to Umbria. Explore this stunning hilltop town known for its dramatic location and rich history. Visit the Orvieto Cathedral (Duomo), famous for its striking façade and frescoes. We continue to Assisi, arriving early evening.

Spend the day exploring Assisi and surrounding Umbria. We start with the visit to the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi (UNESCO World Heritage Site) and Rocca Maggiore, a medieval fortress with panoramic views. Visit nearby Spello, Bevagna, or Montefalco (famous for wine) before doing an olive oil tour in the Umbrian countryside.

Today, we immerse ourselves in the remarkable sights of Siena. Our journey begins at the iconic site of the Palio, the city’s legendary bareback horse race that unfolds with breathtaking intensity each year. From there, we stroll through the beautifully preserved, shell-shaped Piazza del Campo, taking in landmarks such as the elegant Palazzo Pubblico and the ornate Fonte Gaia. We then make our way to Siena’s extraordinary cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture unlike any other in Italy. We continue to our San Gimignano hotel, where we stay for 3 nights.

This morning, we explore the old town before enjoying a beautiful vineyard lunch. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Today we journey to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, to explore its world-renowned art, architecture, and vibrant streets. After a day immersed in the city’s beauty and culture, we return to our hotel in the afternoon.

We travel northwest, stopping in Pisa en route to see the infamous leaning tower. Continuing on to Porto Venere, a beautiful seaside village at the edge of the Cinque Terre area. We stop at the Church of San Pietro, perched on the rocky cliff and the Porto Venere Castle with panoramic views. Arrive in La Spezia late afternoon.

Enjoy a full day exploring Porto Venere and 5 Terre area. Return to La Spezia for relaxing evening.

Today we travel to the Dolomites. Our first stop enroute will be Modena where we will visit the Ferrari Museum and discover the history of Ferrari Formula 1 cars. After a typical Italian lunch in Modena, we continue, arriving in Corvara late afternoon. Corvara is a charming mountain town nestled in the Alta Badia valley area. We check in to our hotel with incredible mountain views. Enjoy dinner at the hotel or at a local alpine restaurant.

Take a Gondola ride for stunning views of the Dolomite peaks. From the top, enjoy easy panoramic walks or simply take in the breathtaking alpine scenery. We also enjoy a guided tour of Sella Massif via the Sellaronda.

We depart the Dolomites, making our way through the countryside before arriving in Stresa, located on beautiful Lake Maggiore. Our hotel is located lakeside and set in beautiful gardens facing the Borromean Islands, a magical setting for our 3-night stay.

Today we visit and explore the famous Lake District. We drive to the town of Como and follow the shore of the lake to Cadenabbia, where we visit the world-famous Villa Carlotta, facing across Lake Como to Bellagio Peninsula. Later we join the ferry which takes us across the Lake to delightful Bellagio. This beautiful village is situated at the tip of the peninsula – there are century old buildings, cobblestoned lanes filled with cafes and shops showcasing the finest Italian wares. There is time to explore and relax in this delightful town which boasts peaceful villas and gardens by the lakeside.

This morning, we take the ferry to visit the beautiful Isola Bella palace and gardens. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to take up any optional activities or to simply enjoy the surroundings. We enjoy our last night in Italy tonight with our group farewell dinner.

This morning, we drive to the city of Milan, Italy’s second largest city and home to its fashion industry as well as many major business and of course La Scala Opera House. We enjoy a city tour of Milan before having a late lunch together. After lunch we are transferred to the airport in time to join our late evening flight to Dubai.

We arrive in Dubai early morning. After a few hours in transit, we join our aircraft for the last leg of our journey.

Arrival time is mid-morning.