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Italy - walking and eating tour

ITALY - WALKING AND EATING TOUR
Date: 9 May - 25 May 2025 - 17 days
Price: EURO 7400 twin share / single supplement EURO 1700
Note: min 9 max, 12 women. All rooms are twin share unless you request a single at an extra cost. Where possible, we change room mates every couple of days, so nobody gets "stuck" with anyone!


Italy Itinerary
Highlights:
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Amalfi Coast - walk Italy's most stunning stretch of coastline
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Cinque Terra - walk ancient pathways full of tradition and culture
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visit charming old villages along the pathway, sample tasty traditional food, delicious gelato, local wines, breathtaking views
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moderate hikes above lemon gardens and vineyards amidst terraced cliffs overlooking the crystal blue sea
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boat trip to the island of Capri
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Naples - explore the vibrant birthplace of pizza!
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Florence tour - the cultural capital of Tuscany - beautiful old buildings, bridges and historical monuments, and a mouth-watering food market!
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walk up Mt Vesuvius and explore the Pompeii ruins
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be charmed by the picturesque olde villages, delight in the food and enjoy spectacular walks on pretty pathways!
Day 1 – Welcome to Italy
Welcome to Italy, and the start of a fabulous adventure! We meet for dinner and a trip briefing to get ourselves prepared for this wonderful trip!
Overnight Naples. Meal:dinner
Day 2 - Pompeii Ruins
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! In the morning, we’ll explore the fascinating ruins of Pompeii, frozen in time after being buried under ash and debris from the catastrophic eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. This eruption not only buried Pompeii but also the nearby city of Herculaneum and several other settlements. Rediscovered and painstakingly excavated, Pompeii is like a time capsule, offering a rare chance to walk through the streets of an ancient Roman city, perfectly preserved for centuries.
After our journey back in time, we’ll enjoy a light lunch before heading to the charming, picturesque village of Tramonti. This delightful spot offers the perfect taste of authentic Italian village life. The day promises history, adventure, and Italian charm all in one!
Overnight Tramonti. Meals: breakfast, light lunch & dinner
Day 3 - Mt. Vesuvius
This morning we take on our first hike: we climb Mt Vesuvius! It is only a 200m height difference to get to the top of the volcano, but the views and the story of Mt Vesuvius are fantastic. Our hike is followed by lovely lunch accompanied by a wine-tasting. We then transfer back to Tramonti – dinner at a local restaurant.
Overnight Tramonti. Meals: breakfast, wine tasting, light lunch & dinner
Day 4 - Ravello & the Valley of the Ancient Mills Walk
Walking - easy to moderate 3.5 hours
Get ready for a delightful day of exploration! We’ll start by visiting the enchanting town of Ravello, known for its noble heritage and breathtaking historical villas surrounded by lush, world-renowned gardens. Take some time to wander through the village, and be sure to visit the stunning Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo, each offering panoramic views and timeless beauty. After soaking in the charm of Ravello, we’ll enjoy a light lunch on a terrace with spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
Then, we’ll embark on a leisurely descent along the valley of the ancient mills, heading towards the celebrated village of Amalfi. Our walk takes us through a tranquil green area, alongside a river, and past the fascinating ruins of old mills. As we approach Amalfi, you’ll notice the rich Arab influence in the architecture, especially in the stunning cathedral and the labyrinth of narrow alleyways that give the town its unique charm. This is a perfect blend of history, nature, and stunning views—an experience you won’t forget!
Dinner in a selected restaurant in Amalfi. Overnight: Hotel*** in Amalfi
Meals: breakfast, light lunch & dinner
Day 5 - The Ferriere Valley
Walking - easy to moderate 4.5 hours
Get ready for an exciting adventure as we set out to explore the stunning Ferriere Valley! We’ll hop on a local bus and head straight into the heart of this enchanting nature reserve, nestled in the rugged Lattari Mountains. Prepare to be wowed by dramatic vertical cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and crystal-clear springs as we walk through a landscape untouched by time. As we trek deeper, we’ll pass by rare, ancient ferns—some dating back to the pre-glacial age! Surrounded by chestnut trees, we’ll make our way to the charming hamlet of Pogerola, then descend down ancient stone steps, leading us right into the heart of the beautiful village of Amalfi. The afternoon is yours to soak in the magic of Amalfi—explore its narrow streets, visit the cathedral, or simply relax by the sea. It’s going to be a day full of natural beauty and unforgettable sights!
Dinner in a selected restaurant in Amalfi. Overnight: Hotel*** in Amalfi
Meals: breakfast, light lunch & dinner
Day 6- Private Boat Tour along the Amalfi Coast
Today, we set sail on an unforgettable adventure! We’ll catch a local ferry to the picturesque resort town of Positano, then hop aboard our own private boat for a day of relaxation and exploration in the breathtaking Punta Campanella Marine Park. This protected area, just off Positano, is a paradise for swimmers, with its pristine, crystal-clear waters and hidden coves. As we cruise along, we’ll discover charming fishing villages and secret bays, perfect for a refreshing dip. Our journey ends with a delicious seaside lunch at a cozy restaurant near Amalfi, where you can savor fresh, local flavors while soaking in the stunning views. Afterward, we’ll hop on a small boat that takes us back to Amalfi, leaving you plenty of time to explore, relax, and enjoy the rest of your afternoon and evening as you please!
Overnight: Hotel*** in Amalfi Meals: breakfast, lunch
Day 7 - The Path of the Gods
Walking - moderate 4.5 hours
Today’s adventure takes us along one of the most breathtaking trails on the Amalfi Coast—an absolute highlight of your journey! We’ll start with a private transfer that takes us winding up the famous zigzag coastal road, offering jaw-dropping views of the centuries-old terraces that have been lovingly preserved by local communities. Our hike begins in Bomerano, where we’re greeted with panoramic vistas of the coastline stretching out towards the legendary Isle of Capri and its dramatic cliffs marking the edge of the land. As we walk along this stunning path, we’ll be treated to the full magnificence of the Divine Coast. When we reach Nocelle, a peaceful mountain village, we’ll begin our descent through lush terraces and olive groves, eventually arriving in the enchanting Positano. You’ll have some free time to relax and explore this postcard-perfect town before we make our way back to Amalfi by bus or boat. The day ends with a leisurely evening at the hotel, followed by a delicious dinner at one of Amalfi’s renowned restaurants—what a perfect way to cap off your unforgettable Amalfi Coast experience!
Overnight: Hotel*** in Amalfi
Meals: breakfast & light lunch & dinner
Day 8 - Capri highlights
Walking - easy to moderate minimum 3.5 hours
Today, we say "arrivederci" to Amalfi and set sail for the glamorous island of Capri! Our morning ferry ride will whisk us away to this stunning paradise, where we’ll begin our journey by strolling through the famous Piazzetta. From there, we’ll follow a scenic coastal path toward the Arco Naturale, a stunning natural arch, and continue on to the iconic Faraglioni—those dramatic rocks rising majestically from the sea. In the afternoon, you have the freedom to explore Capri at your own pace. Whether you want to indulge in some high-end shopping in the island’s chic boutiques, take a peaceful walk to the 14th-century Convent of San Giacomo, or wander through the breathtaking Gardens of Augustus, there’s something for everyone. Later, we’ll board a local ferry to our next adventure—Naples! After arriving at the harbor, a private transfer will bring us to our centrally located hotel. Tonight, you’re free to enjoy dinner wherever you please, with a variety of amazing restaurants just around the corner, ready to tempt your taste buds.
Overnight: Hotel*** in Naples Meal: breakfast
Day 9 - Naples highlights
Naples is a city full of contrasts—loud, bustling, and full of energy, yet undeniably captivating. As the proud birthplace of pizza, Naples offers a culinary experience that blends the best of refined flavors and traditional, hearty comfort. Since the 18th century, Neapolitan pizza has been a beloved symbol of the city’s vibrant culture. But beyond its mouthwatering food, Naples has a rich history that’s woven into the fabric of the city, with countless archaeological treasures, monuments, and buildings that tell stories of centuries past. In fact, UNESCO has named the Historic Center of Naples a World Heritage Site.
This morning, we’ll embark on a guided walk through the heart of old Naples, where every step reveals fascinating glimpses of its ancient past, from hidden gems to historic landmarks. In the afternoon, you have the chance to explore at your own pace. Visit the stunning Cathedral, the magnificent Palazzo Reale, the legendary San Carlo Theatre, or immerse yourself in history at the National Archaeological Museum. And when evening falls, you’re free to enjoy dinner at your leisure, with plenty of incredible options to savor the local flavors!
Overnight: Hotel*** in Naples Meal: breakfast
Day 10 - Florence
Today, we bid “arrivederci” to Naples and board a direct train to Florence—an exciting journey that takes about three hours. Upon arrival, we’ll meet our local guide. Florence, the cultural heart of the Renaissance and once the capital of Tuscany, is a city brimming with history, beauty, and art. With its perfectly preserved architecture and incredible artistic legacy, every corner of Florence seems to tell a story.
The magnificent Duomo, with its iconic Brunelleschi's Cupola, dominates the city’s skyline and stands as a symbol of Florence's rich cultural heritage and civic pride. Just a short walk from the Duomo is the majestic Palazzo Vecchio, the historic town hall, and nearby, you’ll find the world-renowned Uffizi Gallery—home to masterpieces by Michelangelo, Botticelli, Raphael, Titian, and Caravaggio. We’ll explore the Uffizi with our local guide, and after that, you’ll have free time to wander Florence at your own pace. Be sure to visit the famous Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge lined with charming jewelry shops that spans the River Arno.
Later in the afternoon, a private transfer will take us to our next destination: Levanto, where more adventures await!
Overnight: Hotel*** in Levanto Meals: breakfast, dinner
Day 11 - Cinque Terre walk
Walking moderate - min 3.5 max 6 hrs
Today, we dive into the stunning beauty of Cinque Terre! Our adventure begins with a scenic train ride to Riomaggiore, where we’ll explore this charming village before hopping on a short train to Manarola. From here, we embark on a scenic hike that will take us through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Italian Riviera. As we trek from Manarola to Volastra, one of the oldest villages along the coastline, we’ll pass by a 12th-century sanctuary and enjoy panoramic views over the terraced vineyards and the iconic bell tower of Manarola.
The hike continues toward Corniglia, where we’ll be treated to jaw-dropping vistas along the way. Once in Corniglia, take your time to explore its narrow, colorful alleys and steep hillside homes. Afterward, we’ll hop on a train to Vernazza, one of Cinque Terre’s most picturesque villages, before continuing to Monterosso, the final village of the day. If you prefer to spend more time soaking in the atmosphere of each village, a local train connects all five villages of Cinque Terre, making it easy to hop between them. After our day of exploration, we’ll take a quick 4-minute train ride to Levanto, where we’ll enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on the unforgettable sights of the day!
Overnight: Hotel*** in Levanto. Meals: breakfast, light lunch & dinner
Day 12 - Poets' Gulf - Portovenere
Walking easy 3 hrs
Today, we set off to explore the enchanting Poets' Gulf, a true hidden gem of Italy! Using public transport, we’ll make our way to the picturesque village of Portovenere, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exceptional beauty. The name "Portus Veneris" is a nod to the ancient temple dedicated to the goddess Venus, perched on a promontory where you can marvel at the stunning San Peter Church, dramatically built on a cliff's edge.
From the harbor in Portovenere, we’ll hop aboard a boat to the peaceful Isle of Palmaria. Once there, we’ll enjoy an easy, scenic walk around the island, soaking in views of rugged cliffs, mystical grottoes, and remnants of abandoned marble quarries that once flourished here. Afterward, we’ll board a panoramic ferry that will take us to Monterosso, offering a perfect opportunity to admire the breathtaking vistas of all five villages of Cinque Terre from the water. The day wraps up as we return to our hotel, filled with unforgettable memories of this magical coastline. Overnight: Hotel*** in Levanto
Meals: breakfast, light lunch & dinner
Day 13 - From Monterosso to Levanto
Walking moderate about 3 hours
Today, we embark on a scenic walk starting in Monterosso, where we’ll climb the ancient stone steps leading us to Punta Mesco, offering one of the most breathtaking views of all five Cinque Terre villages. From there, we’ll follow an old mule path that takes us past the ruins of a chapel dedicated to St. Antonio, an old lighthouse, and winding paths through terraced landscapes and sloping hillsides. The route leads us high above the sparkling waters of the marine conservation area, through shaded forests and along beautiful terraces.
After a day of exploration, we’ll arrive in the charming village of Levanto, where you’ll have plenty of time to discover its 13th-century Chiesa di Sant'Andrea, a stunning example of Ligurian Gothic architecture with its distinctive black-and-white striped façade. After soaking in the sights, we’ll head back to the hotel, leaving you free to enjoy a relaxed evening and choose a restaurant of your choice for dinner.
Overnight: Hotel*** in Levanto. Meals: breakfast, light lunch
Day 14 - Coastal walk to Punta Manara & return
Walking easy 2.5 hours
After a delicious breakfast, we’ll hop on a local train to Sestri Levante, a quick 30-minute journey. From here, we’ll set off on a stunning walk to Punta Manara. The adventure begins in the charming alleys of the old town, before we climb a series of steps that lead us out of the village and into a beautiful trail. As we walk, we’ll be surrounded by a captivating mix of Mediterranean scrubland, cork oak forests, and olive groves, making for a truly picturesque hike.
Along the way, we’ll visit the well-preserved remains of a Saracen tower, perched high above sea level. This historical tower once held strategic importance, and today it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Gulf of Silence and the town of Sestri. After soaking in the sights, we’ll hop back on the train for a quick 25-minute ride to our next destination: the beautiful Santa Margherita Ligure. Dinner in a selected restaurant in Santa Margherita Ligure. Overnight: Hotel*** in Santa Margherita Ligure. Meals: breakfast, light lunch & dinner
Day 15 - Camogli - San Fruttuoso - Portofino
Walking easy to moderate 2.5 hours
Our final day brings us to the stunning Portofino Peninsula for an unforgettable experience. A short 5-minute train ride takes us to the picturesque village of Camogli, where we’ll board a boat for a scenic ride to the enchanting San Fruttuoso. Nestled in a secluded rocky cove, the medieval Benedictine Abbey of San Fruttuoso is a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery. We’ll take our time to explore this serene and historic monastery before embarking on a breathtaking hike to Portofino.
The trail, winding above the sparkling sea, offers spectacular views as we make our way to the glamorous village of Portofino—known as the “Jewel of the Riviera.” This charming fishing village exudes pure elegance, with its colorful buildings and lively harbor. It’s the perfect place to soak in the luxurious atmosphere of the Italian Riviera. After exploring Portofino, we’ll return to Santa Margherita Ligure either on foot, along a leisurely coastal walk, or by local bus, reflecting on a truly magical day spent in one of Italy’s most beautiful regions.
Dinner in a selected restaurant in Santa Margherita Ligure
Overnight: Hotel*** in Santa Margherita Ligure
Meals: breakfast, light lunch & dinner
Day 16 - departure to Milan
After breakfast we take a local train to Milan (about 3 hours) and then head to our hotel. Free time - go mad shopping! We enjoy a final dinner together in a vibrant part of Milan! Overnight: Hotel*** in Milan, Meal: breakfast
Day 17 – departure from Milan
Feeling fitter, more relaxed, probably more tanned and full of life than before, our wonderful Italy trip is over. You can either fly out from Milan, or continue on to another European destination.
Meals: Breakfast.
"I have done 11 trips with Venus Adventures! I felt included, supported and looked after. I had lots of fun and laughs, met lots of wonderful ladies and had unforgettable experiences. The itineraries are wonderful. Highly recommend it!" Nev, Australia