Italian Espresso

Italian Espresso

The big three of Italy are combined in one tour on the Italian Espresso and as the name suggests, it's a short, strong hit of all things Italian! Walk in the footsteps of the Roman Emperors and follow the tradition by throwing 3 coins in the Trevi fountain. Enjoy Renaissance Florence and it's traditional Tuscan hospitality, art and architecture. Finish up by walking the tiny streets and shopping for Italian designer fashion in the floating city of Venice.


Length: 9 days
Accommodations: n/a
Meals: Dinner, Breakfast
as per itinerary
Sightseeing: Italy, Vatican CIty
Transportation: Coach

Return to Tour

Itinerary

  1. Day Icon-day1 Arrive Rome

    After making your way to the hotel in Rome, your day is free is explore this ancient city. Tonight, meet your Tour Manager and get to know your fellow travellers over dinner. Then hit the streets for some sightseeing.

  2. Day Icon-day2 Rome

    A full free day to explore the treasures of Rome. Your chance to join a tour through Imperial Rome with a local guide, before time to visit St. Peter's Basilica, the Spanish Steps or check out the shops.

  3. Day Icon-day3 Rome to Florence

    Our morning drive leads us to Florence, the Renaissance city set in the beautiful Tuscan Hills. Learn about the Duomo, Giotto’s Bell-Tower, Piazza della Signoria and Santa Croce as our local guide walks us through the city. Free time to shop or visit one of the famous museums.

  4. Day Icon-day4 Florence

    Uncover the amazing masterpieces of Michelangelo’s Florence. Watch a Florentine leather craft demonstration, shop along the Ponte Vecchio and get your lips around some fine Tuscan cuisine before hitting up the Florentine nightlife.

  5. Day Icon-day5 Florence

    Enjoy a day trip out to the Tuscan countryside, stopping in historic San Gimignano. Later, delight in the wines of the region before heading back to Florence for an evening at your leisure.

  6. Day Icon-day6 Florence to Venice

    A short drive to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower before we travel to the fairytale city of Venice. Stroll the streets in the early evening and experience Venice at its best.

  7. Day Icon-day7 Venice

    This morning we take a motor boat to the central islands of Venice. In your free time explore St. Mark's Basilica, the Doges' Palace or the Guggenheim museum. Why not join us later on a gondola ride through the canals of this amazing city?

  8. Day Icon-day8 Depart Venice / Rome

    Time to say farewell to your new-found friends as you tour ends after breakfast in Venice, or you can join us for a free transfer to Rome where your tour will end upon arrival at approximately 7:00pm.

Tour Map

Highlights

All these highlights along with city sightseeing are included in your tour price!

Included
  • Rome: Evening walking tour; See Piazza Venezia, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Piazza Navona, Colosseum & Roman Forum
  • Vatican City: See St. Peter's Basilica
  • Florence: Walking tour with a local guide; See the Duomo, Basilica Santa Croce, Giotto's Bell Tower, the Baptistry & Piazza della Signoria; Florentine leather craft demonstration
  • Venice: Private motorboat to the historic islands; See Piazza San Marco, Bridge of Sighs and the Doges' Palace; Murano glass-blowing & Burano lace-making demonstrations
Accomodations
  • 7 nights twin or triple share hotel accommodation
  • 7 continental breakfasts (B) & 3 three-course dinners (D) as per itinerary
  • Hotel tips, local taxes & service charges
Contiki Difference
  • Experienced, professional Tour Manager & Driver
  • Modern, air-conditioned coach
  • Sightseeing tours of all major cities
  • Free Contiki Travellers Guide
  • Free Contiki document wallet

Optional Excursions

Please Note

Europe Optional Excursions (prices vary)
The optional excursions below are a guide of what may be available on this tour in 2009. Complete details will be updated in early 2009.

Rome

Guided Imperial Tour (Euro 25.50 (10-19 people) / Euro 24.50 (20+ people))
Join a local guide for an excursion back in time. You'll wander across the cobbled stones of the Roman Forum, marvel at the Colosseum and learn why the glory of Imperial Rome still stands out in the history of western culture. Price includes entry into Forum and Colosseum.
Rome Folklore Dinner (Euro 36.00)
Enjoy a typical Italian meal in the heart of Rome - a wonderful menu of Italian specialties and wine will be sure to tantalize your taste buds. In true Italian style you'll also enjoy the sounds of typical songs and folklore from around this fantastic country.

Florence

'Montebuoni' Tuscan Dinner (Euro 37.00)
'Montebuoni' is a charming 16th Century building set in the scenic Tuscan hills. It's the venue for our truly traditional Tuscan evening. Begin with a cocktail and an excellent antipasta buffet. Next is delicious freshly made pasta and a wonderfully aromatic main course - all washed down with some local Chianti wine. A truly special evening.
Night Club (Euro 11.00)
A chance to dance the night away at one of Florence's best clubs. Your first drink is included in the price.
Souvenir Group Photo (Euro 11.50)
A photo of you and all of your new friends is the perfect souvenir from your tour. The photo will be taken with a panorama of Florence in the background or in one of the city's famous piazzas.

Venice

Gondola Ride (Euro 21.00)
No trip to Venice is complete without a ride on the canals in a world-famous gondola. Take in the sights, savour every minute and treasure this truly memorable Venetian experience.
Venetian Restaurant (Euro 29.00)
Our chosen venue guarantees a warm and friendly welcome in true Venetian fashion. You'll enjoy a superb selection of local specialities and some local wine, making it an unforgettable evening in one of the most romantic cities in the world.