Italy Signature with Amalfi Coast

Italy Signature: From Ancient Wonders to Amalfi Shores 

Private Tour | 14 Days | October 2026

Embark on the ultimate Italian bucket-list adventure. This comprehensive tour takes you through the heart of the Mediterranean’s most iconic destinations:

• Rome & Pompeii: Expert-led journeys through antiquity.

• Amalfi Coast: Coastal exploration of Italy's most enchanting seaside towns.

• Tuscany & Florence: Pastoral charm in Siena and Renaissance treasures in the city.

• Venice: A classic private gondola experience through historic canals.

An Italian Masterpiece: Rome, Amalfi, and the Renaissance Italy is a land where it is easy to lose track of time, from the "living museum" of Rome to the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. This expertly curated journey weaves together the country's most iconic experiences into one seamless narrative. Witness the imperial majesty of the Colosseum and the spiritual wonders of the Vatican with your private guide before heading south to the sun-soaked shores of Sorrento.

After embracing the relaxed rhythm of the Amalfi Coast and the "quiet magic" of Capri, you’ll travel north to the cradle of the Renaissance. In Florence, history comes alive through its soaring architecture and world-class cuisine. Your adventure concludes in Venice, where the romance of winding canals and hidden palaces offers a final, unforgettable flourish.

Part I: Rome – The Eternal City

Oct 13–15 | Days 1–3 Stay: Hotel L’Orologio Roma (Superior Rooms)

• Day 1: Arrival in Rome – Begin your Italian odyssey with a seamless VIP arrival. You will be greeted at Fiumicino Airport for a private transfer to your hotel, where your "Italy Welcome Package" awaits. Enjoy a relaxing evening at your leisure.

• Day 2: Imperial Icons & The Vatican – Dive deep into history with a private guide. Go beneath the surface at the Colosseum’s Underground, then marvel at the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica, including a climb to the Dome for panoramic city views.

• Day 3: Culinary Traditions – Experience Rome like a local. Start with a private tour of the Trastevere Market before learning the secrets of Roman pasta in a private cooking class. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s winding cobblestone streets at your own pace.

Part II: The Amalfi Coast & Sorrento

Oct 16–18 | Days 4–6 Stay: Grand Hotel Capodimonte (Superior Rooms)

• Day 4: Rome to Sorrento via Pompeii – Board a premium-class train to Naples, where a private driver will whisk you toward the coast. Stop for a guided exploration of Pompeii’s ruins followed by an artisan tour of local food stalls for a true taste of the region.

• Day 5: The Amalfi Coast Drive – Relax as your private driver navigates the world’s most scenic coastline. Explore the picturesque towns of Positano and Amalfi, soaking in the rugged beauty and Mediterranean sun.

• Day 6: The Isle of Capri – Board a private boat to Capri, the "Jewel of the Mediterranean." Visit the ethereal Blue Grotto and enjoy a guided tour of the island’s exclusive boutiques and cliffside gardens.

Part III: The Heart of the Renaissance & Tuscany

Oct 19–23 | Days 7–11 Stay: Hotel Brunelleschi (Florence) & Hotel Athena (Siena)

• Day 7: Sorrento to Florence – Transition from the coast to the city of art via premium-class rail. After arriving in Florence, enjoy an afternoon of "independent discovery" amidst the city's gold-merchant bridges and leather markets.

• Day 8: Florentine Masterpieces – Spend the day with an expert guide covering the Uffizi and Accademia Galleries (to see Michelangelo’s David), finishing with a climb up Brunelleschi’s Dome.

• Day 9: The Italian Riviera – Take a break from the city for a private day trip to the Cinque Terre, exploring the five colorful fishing villages perched along the dramatic Ligurian cliffs.

• Day 10: Into the Tuscan Countryside – Leave Florence behind for a vintage-inspired adventure. Explore the medieval towers of San Gimignano and the historic center of Siena, complete with a private wine tasting and farmhouse lunch.

• Day 11: Senese Life – Immerse yourself in Tuscan culture with a private cooking class held in a local Senese home. Spend the afternoon shopping or enjoying the quiet charm of Siena’s hilltop vistas.

Part IV: The Romance of Venice

Oct 24–26 | Days 12–14 Stay: Ruzzini Palace (Deluxe Rooms)

• Day 12: Onward to Venice – Travel in Business Class rail to the "Floating City." Upon arrival, take a private water taxi to your hotel before embarking on a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace and the historic Heart of Venice.

• Day 13: Lagoon Islands & Gondolas – Explore the vibrant artisan islands of Murano and Burano by private boat, famous for glass-blowing and lace. Close out your final evening with a quintessential private gondola ride through the starlit canals.

• Day 14: Departure – Enjoy a final Italian breakfast before your private water taxi transfer to the airport for your journey home.

What’s Included

• Expert Curation: A fully personalized itinerary tailored to your group’s preferences and schedule.

• On-the-Ground Support: Round-the-clock (24/7) assistance from our local offices throughout your stay.

• Private Services: Dedicated private drivers and expert local guides for all scheduled tours and transfers.

• Arrival Services: A personalized "Meet and Greet" at the airport or your hotel to ensure a smooth start.

• Accommodations & Meals: All hotel stays as listed, including daily breakfast and any specific lunches or tastings mentioned in the itinerary.

• Baggage Handling: Transfer logistics for one standard suitcase and one carry-on per guest.

What’s Not Included

• Airfare & Travel Documents: International flights (available via our Air Team upon request), visa fees, and passport costs.

• Insurance & Protection: Comprehensive travel insurance (which can be added to your booking for extra peace of mind).

• Dining & Personal Expenses: Most lunches, dinners, and all beverages unless specifically noted. This also includes laundry, room service, and SIM cards.

• Gratuities: Discretionary tips for your private drivers, local guides, and service staff.

• Hotel Flexibility: Early check-in or late check-out outside of standard hotel policies.

• Optional Extras: Excess baggage fees, immunization costs, and any additional sightseeing or room upgrades not explicitly listed in the itinerary.

Trip Details

DAY 1 - ROME 

The Adventure Begins Meet your private driver and vehicle for an airport transfer. An English-speaking assistant will meet you in the arrivals hall and escort you to your awaiting driver. They will accompany during your transfer to the hotel, ensure you are checked in to your hotel walkthrough your Welcome Package documents. They will be on hand to answer any questions you have related to your itinerary and your time in Italy. A Welcome Package will be provided upon arrival and will include any relevant documents or tickets required for your trip. Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel. Where you’re staying Hotel L`Orologio Roma Superior Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 2 - ROME 

See the Signature Sights in Style See the very best of the Eternal City in one unforgettable day, with your private guide bringing history, art, and legend vividly to life. First, step inside the Colosseum, once the stage for gladiators and spectacles that reinforced imperial power, then explore the Roman Forum, the bustling heart of ancient political and social life. Continue to the city center for the Trevi Fountain before reaching the lively square of the Pantheon, where you admire the imposing façade of this ancient temple-turned-church. Your day culminates at the Vatican Museums, home to one of the greatest art collections in the world. As you move through galleries once decorated by Raphael, Pinturicchio, Botticelli, and Michelangelo, your private guide focuses your visit on the true highlights. The experience builds toward the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s breathtaking ceiling and his powerful Last Judgment still inspire awe centuries later. Please note: Ticket sales for the Colosseum open 30 days in advance, and for the Vatican open 60 days in advance. While every attempt will be made to secure tickets for the indicated date and time of day, this cannot be guaranteed. Kindly note that Michelangelo’s “Last Judgment” fresco in the Sistine Chapel will be temporarily covered for restoration from January through April 2026. The Sistine Chapel and all other artworks will remain open to visitors. 

Where you’re staying: Hotel L`Orologio Roma Superior Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 3 - ROME

ROME Live Like a Local Under the guidance of a private chef, peruse the vibrant stalls of the lively Campo de Fiori market in Trastevere, then discover the secrets of Italian cuisine in a hands-on cooking class. Leaving your hotel, make your way independently to a pre-arranged meeting point and open your senses to the bustling market. In a triumph of colors and fragrances, mingle with locals and hear the vendors' banter as your chef helps you select the freshest ingredients for your meal. Meander your way through the market, en route to the cooking studio. Here, start from scratch making hand-made ravioli and fettuccine, learning the secret behind a perfectly balanced dough, and ending with a lavish dessert. At the end of the class, join the table to enjoy the fruits of your labor, complemented with the perfect class of wine. This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel. 

Where you’re staying: Hotel L`Orologio Roma Superior Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 4 - ROME TO NAPLES TO SORRENTO 

The Journey Continues… Meet your private driver and vehicle for a train station transfer. Depart by train from Rome to Naples. Approximate travel time is 1 hour and 15 minutes. Travel with your private driver to Sorrento, stopping along the way to explore the legendary ruins of Pompeii with a local guide. Buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. and preserved under volcanic ash, the site offers a remarkable window into ancient Roman life. Walk the city’s streets past baths, forums, and villas adorned with frescoes, and see amphitheaters, gladiator barracks, and homes frozen in time before continuing your scenic drive to Sorrento. Meet your private guide and set out for a 3-hour walking tour to explore the lovely coastal town of Sorrento, renowned for its gorgeous views on the Bay of Naples, its artisans, its food shops and its friendly people. Learn about Sorrento’s fascinating history dating back to the Ancient Greeks, with its notable monuments serving as testimony of the various ages. Stroll through the historical center and marvel at ancient landmarks complemented by remarkable stories from your guide of the city's prominent features. Discover local artisan workshops lining the narrow lanes where craftsmen make leather sandals, paint ceramics or inlay woods. Continue to local food stalls and savor traditional specialties like local bread, mozzarella, salami and of course, limoncello, a local liquor made from lemon zests. Afterward, admire views over the coastline, soaking up the shimmering azure waters, and be amazed by the Valley of the Mills, a historic valley with a verdant grouping of ruins nestled at the bottom of a deep Italian crevasse created from a sawmill and flourmill dating back to the 10th century. After a beguiling experience, feel free to enjoy some time at your leisure to immerse yourself into the town’s charming culture, or return to your hotel. 

Where you’re staying Grand Hotel Capodimonte Superior Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 5 - SORRENTO 

Hidden Gems Join your private driver-escort and journey along the legendary Amalfi Coast, where soaring cliffs, jewel-toned villages, and sweeping sea views create one of Europe’s most breathtaking drives. Pause for a view of Positano’s domed church and cliffside houses before wandering its lively lanes to the beach. Continue past Praiano and Furore’s dramatic fjord en route to Amalfi, where you can explore the bustling town and admire St. Andrew’s striking cathedral. Conclude in Ravello, a serene hilltop village that has long inspired artists and writers with its gardens and panoramic vistas. 

Where you’re staying: Grand Hotel Capodimonte Superior Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 6 - SORRENTO 

Sights and Insights Today, set out on a full-day tour of the island of Capri, the gem of the Mediterranean Sea, with its breathtaking landscapes sculpted by wind and sea, its history, and its exclusive atmosphere. Meet up with your guide and board the fast jetfoil to the nearby island. Arriving at Marina Grande, begin your journey with a private drive through pristine gardens and Mediterranean flora towards Anacapri. Perched on the slopes of Mount Solaro, this little village is equally rich with history as its more famous neighbor, and is waiting to be discovered. Wander through the town's many shops or take the chairlift up Mount Solaro to the highest peak of the island, offering picturesque panoramic views. A visit to Capri would not be complete without witnessing the majestic Blue Grotto, the absolute symbol of the island. Weather permitting, board a rowboat and lean back as you enter the unsuspected crevice in the cliff, leading into the incomparable blue of the grotto. Continue towards the town of Capri, where you'll enjoy a pleasant stroll through the quaint streets and the lively Piazzetta. Walking along whitewashed walls and quaint shops, follow your guide away from the crowds and be surprised with stunning views, before enjoying some time to explore at your leisure. After a return jetfoil ride back to the mainland, your driver will be waiting to return you to your hotel. 

Where you’re staying: Grand Hotel Capodimonte Superior Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 7 - SORRENTO TO NAPLES TO FLORENCE 

A Change of Scenery Meet your private driver and vehicle for a transfer to Naples. Approximate travel time is one hour. Depart by train from Naples to Florence. Approximate travel time is 3 hours. Meet your driver for a private train station transfer. Enjoy some time at leisure in the heart of Florence, soaking up the city's timeless charm at your own pace. Start by exploring the bustling Central Market, where fresh produce, local delicacies, and vibrant stalls offer a true taste of Tuscan life. Consider venturing into the vibrant Santo Spirito neighborhood, known for its bohemian flair, artisan shops, and charming cafes. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a scoop of gelato from a nearby gelateria, perfect for savoring as you wander through the picturesque streets. If you’re feeling more energetic, stroll up to Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline. Whether savoring a cappuccino in a quiet piazza or browsing artisan shops, the time is yours to relish. 

Where you’re staying: Brunelleschi Deluxe Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 8 - FLORENCE 

Strolling the Magical Streets Alongside your private guide, depart your hotel for a walking tour of the elegant and graceful city of Florence. Known as the cradle of the Italian Renaissance, its galleries and museums are home to some of the world's highest expressions of art. Today's walking tour will focus on Florence's two finest galleries, the Accademia and Uffizi Gallery. Founded in the 16th century by the Medici family, Accademia started out as an instructional art institution. Meandering through the galleries, now witness the displays of some of Michelangelo's most famous statues, such as the unfinished but extraordinarily expressive Prigioni, and the David, a perfect representation of the Renaissance centrality of man. Continue on to Uffizi Gallery and its stunning collection of paintings from artists such as Giotto, Leonardo, Raphael, Botticelli, and Caravaggio. What makes this visit so unique, is the display of works in chronological order. Letting you explore and bare witness to the evolution of Italian art through the centuries. Leave the galleries behind and explore a different side of Florence as you stroll through the historic city center, visiting iconic sites such as Giotto's Bell Tower, Piazza della Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, and the commanding Florence Cathedral. 

Where you’re staying: Brunelleschi Deluxe Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 9 - FLORENCE 

Cross an Item off the Bucket List Spend the day exploring Cinque Terre, a beautiful stretch of rugged coast and one of the few unspoiled parts of the Italian Riviera. Enjoy the picturesque drive with your private driving escort into the National Park and as far as Manarola, where you'll leave the vehicle behind and meet a local guide for a car-free exploration. The Cinque Terre, obtaining its name from the five picturesque fishing villages, was inaccessible from the land for centuries, isolated by steep mountains and valleys on one side and by the shimmering sea on the other. Due to the conformation of the area, and the need to preserve it, motor vehicles are not allowed in the center of the villages. With the skilled guidance of your expert guide, depart Manarola by train and explore the tiny, colorful alleys and the little fishermen's harbors that comprise this little slice of paradise. Visit Vernazza, a village overlooking the medieval remains of Castle Belforte before moving on to Corniglia, a village rich in agricultural history. Riomaggiore, the most southern village in Cinque Terre is the most notable for its wine production and its dramatic cliffs. Finally, stop in Monterosso and marvel at the breathtaking surroundings before making your way back to Manarola, where your driving escort will be waiting to return you to Florence. 

Where you’re staying: Brunelleschi Deluxe Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 10 - FLORENCE TO SIENA 

Vintage Adventure With your private driving-escort, set out on a full-day discovery of two of the most scenic jewels of the Tuscan countryside - the UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites of San Gimignano and Siena. Driving through the rolling hills and gorgeous landscapes you’ll first stop in San Gimignano, resplendent in its medieval harmony. Meet a local guide and set out for a privately guided exploration as you wander the narrow streets, marveling at this magnificent hilltop city famous for its 13th century walls and skyline of medieval towers, including the stone Torre Grossa. Take notice of the 14 surviving towers, some dating back as far as the 11th century, and descend on the triangular Piazza della Cisterna, lined with medieval houses. On the outskirts of San Gimignano and in the heart of the Tuscan countryside you'll visit a local, family-run wine estate for a delightful locally inspired lunch paired with a tasting of olive oil and wines produced on the estate. After lunch head to the medieval city of Siena, where you’ll meet your private guide. Stroll the charming, cobbled streets and marvel at the Piazza del Campo, one of Europe's most stunning medieval squares. Dominating the fan-shaped square are the 13th century City Hall, Palazzo Pubblico, and the skylinetopping Torre del Mangia, a 330-foot bell tower dating back to 14th century Siena. You'll also Admire the Gothic styling of the 12th century Duomo of Siena and the Battistero. After your enlightening walk, rejoin your driver for a drive back to your hotel. 

Where you’re staying Hotel Athena Executive with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 11 - SIENA 

Live Like a Local This morning, set out on your own and connect with your culinary instructor for a private hands-on cooking class located in the special setting of an 11th-century palazzo in the hearth of Siena. Your culinary instructor and hostess, descendant from one of the oldest and noblest families of Tuscany, welcomes you into her kitchen, where you’ll revel in gourmet bliss as you’re invited to help in the preparation of beloved dishes, from scratch. Under the expert guidance of your hostess hone your culinary skills as you learn how to prepare traditional Tuscan recipes, turning simple and fresh ingredients into some exquisite dishes but also about simplicity and respect for the past, while balancing sumptuous flavors. Following thoughtful preparations, you’ll be entertained by anecdotes about the secrets of Tuscan cooking and warm hospitality. Your culinary experience culminates as you sit down to savor your gourmet creations, a perfect way to celebrate your skills. Explore the area of Siena at leisure. Visit the local shops and market for fresh produce and wine. Fill your arms with fresh bread, household goods, flowers, fresh fruit, and vegetables before returning to your accommodation. Siena is filled with one of a kind boutiques and shops at every corner, but you'll want to stroll along three main pedestrian streets for sure: Via di Citta, Banchi di Sopra and Via Dei Montanini. Styles range from trendy to classic. You'll find a gelateria, pizza shop or bar between every few shops , so you can stop for gelato breaks between browsing. Simply window shopping in Siena can be enjoyable, indeed, the locals can often be seen strolling along the main streets, admiring the window displays and designs. This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel. 

Where you’re staying: Hotel Athena Executive with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 12 - FLORENCE TO VENICE 

Onward and Upward Meet your driver for a private train station transfer. Depart by train from Florence to Venice. Approximate travel time is 2 hours. Meet your assistant holding a name sign at the head of the rail track. From there, walk together to the nearby water taxi pier and board your private transfer to the hotel. Your assistant travels with you to the lobby to assist with check-in, while your luggage rides on the same boat. Glide from gilded halls to hidden calli as Venice reveals its story with a private guide by your side. Depart from your hotel and trace how this maritime republic rose to power through trade with the East. Admire the Venetian Gothic façade of the Doge’s Palace with its Byzantine and Islamic influences. Inside, walk grand chambers adorned with works by Titian, Tintoretto, and Veronese, then cross the Bridge of Sighs to glimpse the old prison cells. Stand beneath the gilded ceiling of the Sala del Maggior Consiglio before continuing to St. Mark’s Square to take in the Procuratie arcades, the basilica, and the elegant clock tower. Conclude with a stroll along the Mercerie toward vibrant Rialto, where the city’s political heart meets its marketplace. Finish in the center and return to your hotel at leisure. 

Where you’re staying: Ruzzini Palace Deluxe Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 13 - VENICE 

Explore with an Expert Glide across the Venetian Lagoon and uncover two of its most enchanting islands, each steeped in craft and color. Meet your private guide at your hotel and board a sleek motorboat bound for Murano, world-famous for its glassmaking heritage. Step into a historic glass factory for a live demonstration, watching molten glass transform into delicate masterpieces under the hands of master artisans. Continue to Burano, where canals are lined with vivid houses and the art of lacemaking lives on. Stroll its vibrant streets and soak up the island's charm before cruising back to Venice. This evening, revel in the enchantment of a half-hour, traditional Venetian Gondola ride. Make your way independently to the gondola station, where your private gondola awaits. After boarding, sit back, relax, and take in the beautiful scenery, as your Gondolier navigates this unique vessel through the narrow canals and beneath the stone bridges that make up this one-of-a-kind city on the water. As you gently guide along the canals, passing landmarks and outstanding sites, you'll begin to understand the bond that all Venetians have with their lagoon. 

Where you’re staying: Ruzzini Palace Deluxe Room with Breakfast, 3 DBL 

DAY 14 - VENICE Until Next Time… 

Meet your assistant in the hotel lobby and board a private water taxi bound for the airport pier. From there, walk with your assistant to the Departures Terminal, while your luggage travels with you on the same boat. Depart 

Ask Rosalie about these options:

Archaelogical Treasures of Ancient Rome with San Clemente and St Peter in Chains (3 hrs) - Private 

Afternoon Tour of a Lemon Grove with Tastings and Limoncello Demo (1.5 hrs) - Private 

Full-Day Chianti Discovery with Cooking Class & Lunch (9 hrs) - Private 

Hidden Venice: Cannaregio Walking Tour (3 hrs) - Private 

Accommodation

Rome

Hotel L`Orologio Roma

Sorrento

Grand Hotel Capodimonte 

Florence

Brunelleschi 

Siena

Hotel Athena 

Venice

Ruzzini Palace 

The Fine Print

Booking & Payment Schedule

• Deposit: A 30% deposit (minimum $350) is required at the time of booking to secure your reservation.

• Final Payment: The remaining balance is due 90 days before your departure.

• Availability: Please note that space is not guaranteed until the booking is finalized. While we strive to secure the specific hotels listed, substitutes may be required during peak seasons or for late bookings.

Cancellation Policy Refunds are processed based on the following timeline:

• 90+ Days Prior: Full refund minus a $350 per person fee and any non-refundable supplier costs (airfare, cruises, etc.).

• 60–89 Days Prior: Loss of 30% of the total program price.

• 30–59 Days Prior: Loss of 50% of the total program price.

• 29 Days or Less: 100% non-refundable.

Contact Information

Your Travel Advisor

Rosalie Derks

RSD Travel Journey

rosalie@rsdtraveljourney.com

616-485-8847