Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off on the adventure of a lifetime!

Benvenuti in Italia! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Venice airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

Venice is breathtaking with its misty lagoon and palaces seemingly floating on water. You can enjoy this afternoon sightseeing and getting lost. No one wants to get lost while visiting a city, but Venice is an exception! Amaze of narrow alleys and canals, the best way to discover it is by wandering around with no predefined route.

This evening, at 6 o’clock, we’ll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink in our hotel. After that, you can enjoy dinner on your own; nothing beats dining in a cozy Venetian restaurant enjoying local specialties and fine wines.Whichever place you choose, be sure to try the Squid Ink Risotto or Pasta!

This morning we’ll meet our expert local guide for a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, the great Byzantine Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs and an inside visit of the Doge’s Palace.

Next, we’ll board our mostoscafi to the beautiful island of Murano, where we will visit one of the oldest glass-blowing factories. Our glass masters will show us two different glass blowing techniques: the hand-blown glass technique creating a small vase and the carved glass technique, creating a small sculpture like a glass horse, fish or cat.

This afternoon you’ll have a chance to get lost in the city’s labyrinth of canals, bridges and tiny piazzas. Being a small island, it’s impossible to stray very far. But it won’t hurt to master the phrase Dov’è’ Piazza San Marco?

Tonight, instead of a traditional dinner, do as the Venetians do! Enjoy cicchetti, Venetian-style tapas, served in various pubs all over Venice.

We’re off to Florence today with an inspiring stop along the way. Visitors to Padua are often surprised by a sense of deep spirituality. St. Anthony (patron Saint of lost objects) is interred here in the serene Basilica which dates back to the 1200s. Next on to Florence! Home of Dante, Boccaccio, Botticelli, Da Vinci, and some say, the best gelato in Italy!

Back at the hotel, our tour director is happy to offer this evening’s restaurant suggestions. Perhaps, world famous Florentine steak? Bistecca alla Fiorentina.

Our day of sightseeing includes the majestic Duomo built in 1296, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned Gates of Paradise doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria, Michelangelo’s final resting place.

“Breathtaking” is the only word to describe one’s first view of Michelangelo’s David. Yes, it’s quite large and detailed. But the real magic is in how Michelangelo transformed a lifeless rock into a man—full of pride, wary of his adversary, yet quietly confident. All with just a hammer and a chisel!

You’ll be sure to find a perfect Florentine dinner spot tonight.

The bell tower of Pisa is among the most instantly recognizable structures on earth. Architects say it would be world famous even if it were perfectly straight. This morning we’ll see for ourselves, along with the beautiful Cathedral and Baptistery.

This afternoon we’ll visit Tenuta Torciano winery in Tuscany and meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world’s most enchanting sommelier. You’ll learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and most importantly—which glass to use with each wine!

You’ll also get to experience an olive oil and truffle oil tasting...and of course have some fresh bread with it! This will all be followed by a fabulous dinner and wine tasting. Cin-Cin!

We’ll return to Florence for a free evening on your own to explore or perhaps go shopping for some souvenirs.

Our journey to Sorrento takes us through the rolling hills, scenic vineyards and postcard perfect vistas of Tuscany and Umbria. Soon we are in Sorrento, high on a beautiful plateau, greeted by the sapphire blue Gulf of Naples and majestic Mt. Vesuvius.

When most Americans think of Italian food, they’re usually thinking of the dishes of Naples and Sorrento—spaghetti with tomato and basil, mozzarella and pizza are from this area.

This morning you’ll be taken to Capri, the world’s most enchanting, breathtaking island. Upon arrival, we take a private boat ride for a tour of the island. We cruise around the magnificent Faraglioni, Capri’s most iconic sight. These mythical towering rock formations, which jut out from the Mediterranean just off the island’s coast, were formed over the years by erosion from ocean waves.

Next, we visit one of the lesser-known but equally beautiful sea caves, the Grotta Bianca. Once we arrive back on Capri, we have free time to explore the island on our own or take advantage of a special optional excursion with your tour leader.

Tonight, still glowing from the sun, it’s time to enjoy another fine gastronomic experience.

Pompeii—an entire city perfectly preserved as it was on that fateful day almost 2,000-years-ago, when ash and lava literally stopped it in its tracks. You’ll see the tragic fossils of people attempting to escape along with children and dogs.

Later this morning, we continue on to Rome, viewing the Bay of Naples on the way.

A few hours later, we enter the gates of Rome and settle into our hotel.

This morning we visit Vatican City, headquarters for more than a billion Catholics worldwide. We begin at the Vatican Museum, a massive collection of sculptures, paintings and tapestries.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the pope is elected. We enter in total silence, not wanting to disturb Michelangelo’s famed frescoes, depicting stories from the Bible and the End of Times.

You’ll be fascinated by which of Michelangelo’s contemporaries he assigned to heaven and which to hell.

We’ll also visit St. Peter’s Basilica. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, and Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy soaring high above the main altar.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope.)

This afternoon, Rome is all yours to explore! Tonight, treat yourself to one of Rome’s fine restaurants for a fabulous dinner. May we suggest some Roman specialties Bucatini all’Amatriciana; Spaghetti alla Carbonara; Roasted lamb with garlic and rosemary; stuffed artichokes ...is your appetite whet yet?

Hail Caesar! All aboard our chariot for a relaxing, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, downtown ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus, and the Great Synagogue, built in the heart of the Jewish quarter.

Then we’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

This afternoon, Rome is all yours! Shop, fountain hop, explore to your heart’s content.

Tonight, treat yourself to one of Rome’s fine restaurants for a delizioso dinner!

This morning you board your flight home.

No tears! You’ll exchange emails with your new friends and make plans for the future. How about we all meet again on a Perillo tour—to Hawaii!

Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off on a journey that will remain etched in your memory forever!

Benvenuti a Roma! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

Enjoy some free time this afternoon—take a walk on Via Veneto, have a gelato or maybe do some shopping. Tonight, we’ll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner in our hotel.

This morning, we travel ten-minutes to another country—Vatican City. With our expert local guide we’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, renowned for its Renaissance art, especially the ceiling which was painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. The Chapel, which attracts more than five million visitors each year, is also where the Pope is elected.

Next we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

Tonight, we thought you’d enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your guide for a recommendation or venture out and explore. Be sure to try Spaghetti alla Carbonara made with eggs, guanciale (bacon from pig’s cheek), black pepper and pecorino cheese.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on any events planned by the Pope.)

This morning, after breakfast, we will enjoy a Gelato tasting! It's never too early for gelato!

After this, we travel to Bologna, the gastronomic capital of Italy. To Italians, Bologna is known as the city of “Two Towers”; worldwide it’s known as the city of lasagna, tagliatelle, tortellini and Bolognese sauce. Good food must boost brain-power because Bologna is home to the oldest university in Europe!

This afternoon is yours to enjoy on your own. Why not visit the market stalls selling beans, tomatoes and cheeses. Have lunch at a trattoria serving fresh pasta with their signature ragu sauce. The city is a food lover’s paradise!

Tonight, we enjoy a fabulous dinner out with typical local specialties in a local restaurant.

This morning, we travel to Parma, a city in the region of Emilia Romagna famous for its prosciutto, parmigiano cheese, architecture and gorgeous countryside.

On the way, we’ll stop to visit a cheese factory for a taste of genuine parmigiano cheese—our favorite!

In Parma, we’ll enjoy a visit to a prosciutto (ham) factory followed by a light lunch.

Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own. Be sure to try one of Bologna’s signature dishes: tortellini which take their shape from Venus’ navel!

The Grand Canal is just a short train ride away. Should we go? You wouldn’t want to miss one of the most unique cities in the world… Andiamo a Venezia!

In Venice, everything and everyone floats. One floats luxuriously with such a sense of freedom, never tormented by traffic or even the sounds of honking horns.

Your guide will show you all the sights—St. Mark’s Square, the Basilica and the Bridge of Sighs. Just around the corner from St. Mark’s Square, we’ll enjoy a special Venetian lunch in a city renowned for its seafood specialties.

This evening we return to Bologna for dinner on our own.

Today, we will discover Emilia Romagna, one of the most fertile and productive regions of Italy. We are whisked along the northern Italian countryside, arriving along the famous coast of Liguria. We will take a short boat ride to Portofino, a picturesque seaside village with brightly colored houses lining the shore. Portofino is also known as the resort of the rich and famous…a perfect place for our guests! Designer boutiques and dozens of cafés and restaurants line the main square, giving guests the chance to experience the real Italian “bella vita.”    *Weather permitting.

You’ll have some free time to visit the main square, the church of San Giorgio, which is said to have relics of St. George. You can also visit the Brown Castle, built in the fifteenth-century and used for harbor defense over the centuries.

Next, we visit Camogli, another charming fishing village and resort. This town has a small harbor with shops and restaurants. You’ll have free time to sightsee, have a gelato or just sit back and people watch.

We continue on to Rapallo, a pretty seaside resort town on the Italian Riviera. After a short visit of the city center, we check into our beautiful hotel and enjoy dinner with fine local wines.

Excitement awaits! Today we visit Cinque Terre, the ruggedly beautiful stretch of coastline inset with five tiny villages perched along the Italian Riviera. These 5 picturesque fishing villages are often the “top places to visit” for most travel magazines.

First, we travel to Sestri Levante to board our train to tiny Vernazza, the jewel of the Cinque Terre. Here the way of life remains simple, unspoiled and without cars. Ah… Tranquility!

Later today, we return to our hotel in Rapallo to enjoy the evening on our own.

Today is yours to enjoy as you please! Sightsee, shop and have some gelato!

Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own. Ask your tour leader for some suggestions – there are many choices in this beautiful town!

Today we drive to Stresa on beautiful Lake Maggiore. For centuries, Stresa has been a popular retreat for Europe’s aristocrats who have endowed the town with a number of beautiful villas.

Next, we visit Isola Bella, “beautiful island,” one of the Borromean islands of Lake Maggiore. With its wonderful gardens and impressive palace, this lovely island will remain in your memory forever.

After checking into our beautiful hotel in Stresa, enjoy one of your last dinners in Italy on your own. Time to really indulge!

This morning we enjoy an excursion to Lugano to explore the Italian section of Switzerland. Its close proximity to Italy makes the city a wonderful blend of Italian charm and Swiss sophistication. Stroll along the charming arcades, admire breathtaking lake views and, most importantly, shop for Swiss chocolate!

Next, we enjoy a boat ride around Lake Como, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful lakes in Italy. Many celebrities have homes on the shores of Lake Como—George Clooney, Gianni Versace, Sylvester Stallone and Madonna. Real estate offices will be open for your convenience!

Tonight, we have a final dinner in the hotel with our new travel friends. Don’t forget to exchange email addresses and make plans for the future. How about you all meet again on another Perillo Tour—to Hawaii!

Transfer to Milan Airport in time for your return flight to USA.

Today we’re off to bella Italia, ‘the old country’, but still very much a part of the 21st century. 

Your flight arrives into Fiumicino Airport… Benvenuti a Roma! 

Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you. We are pleased to offer a complimentary transfer from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times.  

You’ll have some time to settle into your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure to discover this magical city.  The rest of the day is yours to enjoy on your own… do some shopping on Via Condotti and maybe grab a gelato and people watch! 

After a free afternoon, we enjoy a relaxing dinner in our hotel.

This morning, it’s a ten minute drive to another country – Vatican City!  With our expert local guide, we’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.  

Our visit starts in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the Pope is elected. Next we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pieta`, sculpted when he was just 24 years old, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.  

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope.)  

This afternoon, you’ll learn the secrets of some traditional Italian dishes. In a way, the simplicity of Italian cooking makes it a special challenge because there are few rich sauces to hide behind!

Our test kitchen is in a centuries-old brick vaulted underground cavern. The perfect atmosphere to drink, eat and learn the secrets of la cucina romana!  Learn to prepare fresh pasta dough, “al dente”, along with various sauces and wine pairings.  At the end of class, you’ll get to enjoy your homemade meal!  

Tonight, you’re free for a night out in Rome, on your own. Be sure to have a gelato at one of the best shops close to the Trevi Fountain, “Il Gelato di San Crispino.” Try the nocciola – you won’t regret it!

Hail Caesar!  All aboard our chariot for an exciting, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus and the great Synagogue, built in the heart of the Jewish quarter.  

As you enter the Colosseum, you’ll relive the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.  (Discover the true meaning of thumbs-up and thumbs down.)

Tonight you’ll have a chance to explore the lively streets of Rome on your own. Be sure to try some Fiori di Zucca, a specialty of Rome: Zucchini flowers, deep-fried and filled with mozzarella, and sometimes anchovies.

This morning we’re off to Spoleto, in the region of Umbria also known as Italy’s “Green Heart”. Spoleto is a walled medieval hill town that has been inhabited since prehistoric times; the lower parts of its wall are from the 6th century BC! 

We’ll visit the Cathedral of Spoleto, the Palazzo della Signoria and the octagonal Church of Santa Maria della Manna. After our city tour, you will have some free time to enjoy lunch on your own.  

Next, we drive to Perugia, a city famous for its chocolate, filled with historic buildings, people-filled squares and modern shops. Perugia is the home of the largest international university in Italy with over 8000 students.  

Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner in our hotel. Un brindisi (a toast) to our newfound friends!  

This morning, we will visit the Perugina factory, where visitors can revel in all of the pleasures of chocolate!

We’ll start with a tour of the Perugina Museum, where you’ll learn how one simple cocoa bean can be magically transformed into rich chocolate. Our tasting will highlight the importance of freshness in chocolate, without preservatives.

Next, we proceed to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis and namesake of our Pope. We visit the Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, the main church of the Franciscan order. We’ll also visit the crypt where the remains of St. Francis are interred. 

Dinner is on your own tonight. Be sure to ask your tour leader for some suggestions!

This morning, we depart for Lake Trasimeno. We will arrive at the lakeside town of Tuoro where we will take a cruise (weather permitting) to the islands and beautiful coastal areas of the lake. We’ll navigate towards Maggiore Island for a short break and a chance to admire the Castle of Guglielmi, among other wonders.   

Lunch will be in a local restaurant, where we will taste the specialties of this area.  

Tonight, you are free to enjoy dinner on your own. Be sure to ask your tour leader for recommendations.

This morning we drive from Perugia to Florence, often referred to as the “Cradle of the Renaissance”. You’ll have a free afternoon to enjoy as you please. Visit some leather stores or enjoy a Florentine lunch! 

Tonight, well enjoy dinner in our hotel with fine local wines.

While the ambitious city of Florence was launching the Renaissance, Siena was her laid back country cousin. Just 30 miles south of Florence, she is considered the best preserved medieval city in all of Italy.  

Our guided tour will include the elaborately carved Gothic cathedral, Town Hall and Piazza del Campo – site of the famous Palio horse race. You’ll have time for lunch on your own, shopping and a little more exploration.  

This afternoon we’ll visit Tenuta Torciano winery in Tuscany and meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world’s most entertaining sommelier. You’ll learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and most importantly – which glass to use with each wine! You’ll also get to experience an olive oil and truffle oil tasting . . . and of course have some fresh Italian bread!

This will all be followed by a fabulous dinner and wine tasting. This is an experience you will never forget . . . Cin-Cin!

Our day of sightseeing includes the majestic Duomo complex built in 1296 and Giotto’s Bell Tower and Baptistery with its astonishing Gate of Paradise doors.  We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square of Florence, Piazza della Signoria,  Michelangelo’s final resting place. 

“Breathtaking is the only way to describe one’s first view of Michelangelo’s David.  Yes, it’s quite large and detailed.  But the real magic is in how Michelangelo transformed a lifeless rock into a man-full of pride, wary of his adversary, yet quietly confident.  All with just a hammer and a chisel! 

Tonight, please be our guest at a fine local Florentine restaurant with flowing wines and great food. A perfect ending to a perfect day!

This morning we travel to Bologna, the gastronomic capital of Italy. To Italians, Bologna is known as the city of “Two Towers”.  Worldwide, it’s known as the city of lasagna, tagliatelle, tortellini and Bolognese sauce.  Good food must boost brain- power because Bologna is also home to the oldest university in Europe! 

This afternoon, we will have a walking tour of Bologna – including Piazza Maggiore, the “Two Towers” (which also happen to lean) and the Basilica of San Petronio, dedicated to the patron saint of the city, Saint Petronius, who was the bishop of Bologna in the fifth century.   

Tonight, we’ll enjoy a dinner at a local restaurant with world-famous Bolognese delicacies.

Today we will visit a Parmigiano factory.  We’ll see how they transform fresh milk into Parmigiano cheese and then get to taste genuine Parmigiano Reggiano.  

We proceed to famed Modena, a city known for its balsamic vinegar and Ferrari and Lamborghini sports cars.  You’ll have some free time to explore and have lunch on your own. Next, we visit the Acetaia Giusti – the world's oldest balsamic vinegar producer, founded in 1605. (This acetaia is featured in the Emilia Romagna episode of Stanley Tucci’s ‘Searching for Italy’ series.)  We’ll enjoy a guided tour of the museum and a tasting of the Giusti products.  

Tonight, we enjoy dinner in our hotel with fine local wines. Time to say ‘arrivederci’ to our new-found traveling companions as we exchange emails.  No tears . . . How about a Perillo vacation to Spain or Hawaii next year!

This morning you board your flight home arriving in the USA the same date. Grazie mille for traveling with the Perillo Family.  Don’t forget to share your pictures with us too!

Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off on a journey that will remain etched in your memory forever!

Benvenuti a Roma! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

This afternoon you will have free time to relax or better yet, explore the Eternal City. There’s so much to see and do! Tonight, we meet our tour leader for a welcome drink, followed by dinner in our hotel.

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you certainly can’t see it in one—but we’ll try to show you as much as possible in the next few days!

This morning, we travel ten-minutes to another country—Vatican City. With our expert local guide we’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings. Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the Pope is elected.

Next we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

Tonight, we’ll recount our explorations with good food and wines fit for an Emperor at a local Roman restaurant!

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope.)

Hail Caesar! All aboard our chariot for a relaxing, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, downtown ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus, and the Great Synogogue, built in the heart of the Jewish quarter.

Then we’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

Tonight, we thought you’d enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your tour guide for a nearby recommendation, or venture out and explore the local restaurants in Rome! Be sure to try a Supplì, a quintessential Roman specialty: Fried ball of rice filled with tomato sauce, meat and melted mozzarella.

After a delicious breakfast in the hotel, we’re off on the beautiful drive south to Pompeii! On the way, we approach the view of the Bay of Naples, birthplace of Caruso, Sophia Loren, Bel Canto and ‘O Sole Mio.

We travel back to the Pompeii of 97 AD. A city perfectly preserved by the ash that rained down from Mt. Vesuvius. You’ll see the tragic fossils of the people trying to escape with their children and dogs, and streets, homes and stores that are all amazingly intact.

This evening we enjoy a relaxing dinner in our hotel.

This morning, we board our speedy jetfoil to the world’s most enchanting island—Capri. We’ll enjoy a private boat tour around the island (weather permitting). We’ll cruise by the magnificent Faraglioni, Capri’s iconic rock formations which tower above the Mediterranean Sea.

Next, we visit one of the lesser-known but equally beautiful sea caves, the Grotta Bianca. Then we’ll have free time to explore the island on our own, or take advantage of a special optional excursion with our tour leader.

Later this afternoon, we sail back and have some time to relax before heading out to a great Neapolitan restaurant for dinner.

This morning, after a delicious breakfast, we board a train to Florence! We’ll arrive in time for a lunch at our hotel followed by a walking tour of the historical center of this most famous of all Renaissance cities!

We’ll visit the majestic Duomo (complex) built in 1296, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned Gates of Paradise doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria, Michelangelo’s final resting place.

“Breathtaking” is the only word to describe one’s first view of Michelangelo’s David. Yes, it’s quite large and detailed. But the real magic is in how Michelangelo transformed a lifeless rock into a man—full of pride, wary of his adversary, yet quietly confident. All with just a hammer and a chisel!

Tonight, we enjoy a Florentine dinner in our hotel with fine wines.

*In the event of a train strike or such problems, we will travel to Florence by bus.

The Grand Canal is just a short train ride away from Florence. Should we go? … SI! ANDIAMO A VENEZIA!

There is no normal life in Venice. Here, everything and everyone floats luxuriously with a sense of freedom, never tormented by traffic or even the sound of a horn.

Your guide will show you all the sights—St. Mark’s Square, the Basilica, and the Bridge of Sighs. Just around the corner from St. Mark’s Square, we’ll enjoy a special Venetian lunch in a town renowned for its seafood specialties.

This evening we return to Florence for dinner on your own. Make sure to try Pappa al Pomodoro, a rustic Tuscan soup made with tomatoes, garlic, onions and of course, Tuscan bread!

Our last day together will be at our favorite winery! You’ll visit the Tenuta Torciano winery in Tuscany and meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world’s most enchanting sommelier. You’ll learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and most importantly—which glass to use with each wine! You’ll also get to experience an olive oil and truffle oil tasting…and of course have some fresh bread with it!

This will all be followed by a fabulous lunch and wine tasting. Salute! Enjoy the remainder of the day and evening on your own, perhaps shopping for last minute souvenirs!

This morning board your flight home, arriving in the USA the same day. Unless, of course, you have chosen to extend your stay! A warm Grazie for traveling with the Perillo family and please return soon.

Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off to Italy on the adventure of a lifetime!

Benvenuti a Venezia! We are pleased to offer complimentary motorboat transfers from the Venice airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

After you settle in at your hotel, take a stroll through Venice. Get lost in the traffic-free streets and alleyways. There are so many wonderful things to see!

Tonight, we’ll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner at our favorite restaurant in Venice just steps from St. Mark’s Square.

This morning we’ll meet our expert local guide for a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, the great Byzantine Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs and an inside visit of the Doge’s Palace. Next, we’ll board our mostoscafi to the beautiful island of Murano, where we will visit one of the oldest glass-blowing factories. Our glass masters will show us two different glass blowing techniques: the hand-blown glass technique creating a small vase and the carved glass technique, creating a small sculpture like a glass horse, fish or cat.

Next, we’ll board our motoscafi to visit one of the world’s oldest glass-blowing factories on the island of Murano.

This afternoon you’ll have a chance to get lost in the city’s labyrinth of canals, bridges and tiny piazzas. Being a small island, it’s impossible to stray very far. But it won’t hurt to master the phrase Dov’è’ Piazza San Marco?

Dinner is on your own tonight and there are lots of great choices around your hotel. Even Hemingway’s famous Harry’s Bar is just around the corner. Your guide will be happy to make suggestions. Just ask.

This morning it’s back to the mainland where we’ll meet our dependable driver for the ride to Florence. But on the way, we’ll make a memorable stop.

Visitors to Padua are often surprised by a sense of deep spirituality. St. Anthony (patron Saint of lost objects) is interred here in the serene Basilica which dates back to the 1200s.

Tonight we’ll enjoy dinner at our hotel. A toast (brindisi) to Florence and new friends!

Florence, the fountainhead of the Renaissance—city of Dante, Boccaccio, Botticelli and Da Vinci!

Enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the city atop Piazzale Michelangelo, followed by our tour of the Academy of Fine Arts where Michelangelo’s proud David stands, the majestic Cathedral built in 1296, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its Gates of Paradise doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria and then to Florence’s most compelling Franciscan church built in 1294—Santa Croce. It’s not only an artistic shrine with frescoes by Giotto, but also the burial place of 270 of the city’s most eminent inhabitants—among them Galileo, Michelangelo, Machiavelli and Rossini.

In the cloister next door we see the Pazzi Chapel— widely regarded as one of the most perfect early Renaissance creations.

Tonight, please be our guest at a fine local Florentine restaurant with flowing wines and great friends. A perfect ending to a perfect day!

While the ambitious city of Florence was launching the Renaissance, Siena was her laid back country cousin. Just 30 miles South of Florence, she is considered the best preserved medieval city in Italy.

Our guided tour will include the elaborately carved Gothic cathedral, Town Hall and Piazza del Campo – site of the famous Palio horse race. You’ll have time for lunch on your own, shopping and a little more exploration.

This afternoon we’ll visit Tenuta Torciano winery in Tuscany and meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world’s most enchanting sommelier. You’ll learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and most importantly—which glass to use with each wine! You’ll also get to experience an olive oil and truffle oil tasting…and of course have some fresh bread with it!

This will all be followed by a fabulous early dinner and wine tasting. Cin-Cin!

This morning, we enjoy our drive south to Rome through Tuscany, Umbria and Lazio, the green heart of Italy.

This afternoon, we enjoy a relaxing, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, downtown ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus, and the Great Synagogue, built in the heart of the Jewish quarter.

Then we’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

Tonight, we return to the twenty-first century and enjoy a typical Roman dinner at our hotel.

A free day in Rome! But don’t sleep in too late—there’s much to do and see! Ask your tour guide for suggestions.

Why not start with an espresso in Piazza Navona, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return and stroll across the Tiber for another look at the Vatican. Rome is a great city for walking, shopping and people watching.

Tonight, we enjoy a delicious dinner in the characteristic district of Trastevere, one of the centers of the Roman night life. This lively area of tiny winding streets gives a taste of what one imagines Italy to be like, with cobbled streets and music-filled trattorias on every corner.

This morning, it’s a ten-minute drive to another country—Vatican City! With our expert local guide we’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the Pope is elected. Next we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope.)

Tonight, you’re free to enjoy a night in Rome on your own with your new friends. Be sure to have an ice cream at one of the best shops in Rome, close to the Trevi Fountain, “Il Gelato di San Crispino.” Try the nocciola!

This morning you board your flight home, arriving in the USA the same day. While we say arrivederci to Italy, we realize we’re taking a little piece of it back home with us.

Thanks for traveling with the Perillo family and please return soon.

Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off on the adventure of a lifetime.

Your flight arrives at Fiumicino Airport…

Benvenuti a Roma! Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times.

You’ll have some time to settle into your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure to discover this magical city.

Tonight, we’ll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner in our hotel.

Hail Caesar! All aboard our chariot for a relaxing, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, downtown ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus, and the Great Synagogue, built in the heart of the Jewish quarter.

Then we’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

Tonight, we’ll recount our explorations with good food, fine wine and new friends at a local restaurant.

This morning, it’s a five-minute drive to another country—Vatican City! With our expert local guide we’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the Pope is elected.

Next we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope.)

You’ll have lunch on your own followed by a free afternoon in Rome.

Tonight we thought you’d enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your tour guide for a recommendation!

This morning we head to Pompeii, approaching the view of the Bay of Naples on the way.

Imagine,.. a city perfectly preserved as it was on that fateful day 2,000-years-ago, when ash and lava literally stopped it in its tracks. You’ll see the tragic fossils of people attempting to escape along with children and dogs.

Tonight we enjoy dinner in our hotel with fine wines from Campania region.

This morning you’ll be taken to Capri, the world’s most enchanting island. Upon arrival, we take a private boat for a tour of the island (weather permitting). We cruise around the magnificent Faraglioni, Capri’s most iconic sight. These mythical towering rock formations, which jut out from the Mediterranean just off the island’s coast, were formed over the years by erosion from ocean waves. Next, we visit one of the lesser-known but equally beautiful sea caves, the Grotta Bianca. Once we arrive back on Capri, we have free time to explore the island on our own or take advantage of a special optional excursion with your tour leader.

Later this afternoon, we sail back and have some time to relax before heading out to a great Neapolitan restaurant for dinner.

Departing Sorrento, our deluxe motorcoach navigates the rolling hills, scenic vineyards and postcard perfect vistas of Umbria and Tuscany. Along the way, we’ll travel by the beautiful Tiber River Valley and the medieval villages of Orvieto and Orte.

This evening’s dinner features fine local wines at our hotel.

Florence—the fountainhead of the Renaissance, awaits us! Our day of sightseeing includes the majestic Duomo built in 1296, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned Gates of Paradise doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria, Michelangelo’s final resting place.

“Breathtaking” is the only word to describe one’s first view of Michelangelo’s David. Yes, it’s quite large and detailed. But the real magic is in how Michelangelo transformed a lifeless rock into a man—full of pride, wary of his adversary, yet quietly confident. All with just a hammer and chisel!

Tonight, we’ll take you to our favorite local restaurant for a typical Tuscan dinner.

The bell tower of Pisa is among the most instantly recognizable structures on earth. Architects say it would be world famous even if it were perfectly straight. This morning we’ll see for ourselves, along with the beautiful Cathedral and Baptistery.

This afternoon we’ll visit a typical Tuscan winery to learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and, most importantly—which glass to use! We’ll enjoy a wine tasting with these special wines along with an early light dinner. Cin-Cin!

Visitors to Padua are often surprised by a sense of deep spirituality. St. Anthony (patron Saint of lost objects) is interred here in the serene Basilica, which dates back to the 1200s. We’ll have some time to visit the Basilica and then some free time to explore ourselves and get some lunch.

Venice arrives to us as in a dream. Gondolas glide past us with their gondoliers singing. Our arrival is by bus and then switching into water taxis to reach our hotel. We’ll have some time to settle into our hotel and relax or go for a walk in this magical city.

Tonight we’ll recount our explorations over dinner in our hotel. Good food, good wine, and great friends! Now that’s Italian!

This morning we’ll meet our expert local guide for a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, the great Byzantine Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs and an inside visit of the Doge’s Palace. Next, we’ll board our mostoscafi to the beautiful island of Murano, where we will visit one of the oldest glass-blowing factories. Our glass masters will show us two different glass blowing techniques: the handblown glass technique creating a small vase and the carved glass technique, creating a small sculpture like a glass horse, fish or cat.

This afternoon you’ll have a chance to get lost in the city’s labyrinth of canals, bridges and tiny piazzas. Being a small island, it’s impossible to stray very far. But it won’t hurt to master the phrase Dov’è’ Piazza San Marco?

Dinner is on your own tonight. When in Venice, do as the Venetians do! Enjoy Cicchetti, Venetian style tapas, served in various pubs all over Venice.

On the way to Milan, we stop at one of the most popular sights on Lake Garda – the peninsula of Sirmione. Crossing the drawbridge, we enter a peaceful world of hot springs, the Medieval castles and phenomenal views of the Dolomites.

Soon we’re in fashionable Milan where we begin with a panoramic drive around the city. Next, we visit the Piazza del Duomo (“Cathedral Square”), the main piazza of Milan named after, and dominated by the impressive Milan Cathedral.

We’ll stroll through the spectacular glass-topped Galleria, the world’s first shopping mall and on to the famed La Scala Opera House.

Tonight, we enjoy a Milanese dinner at our hotel.

This morning’s visit to Lugano is actually in Switzerland, but this Alpine paradise clings to its Italian roots. The natural beauty is accompanied by great shops filled with Swiss specialties—like clocks, watches and, of course, chocolate!

Next we visit Como, the charming town and pristine lake of the same name, lined with lovely villas.

Our last night together will be at a fine Milanese restaurant. No tears! You’ll exchange email addresses with your new friends and make plans for the future. How about we all meet again on another Perillo tour—to Hawaii!

This morning you board your flight home, arriving in the USA the same day. Unless, of course, you have decided to extend your stay and let this unforgettable journey continue a little longer! While we say arrivederci to Italy, we realize we’re taking a little piece of it back home with us.

Thanks for traveling with the Perillo family, and please return soon.

Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off on your Italy adventure. Buon viaggio!

Benvenuti a Roma! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

Enjoy some free time this afternoon—take a walk on Via Veneto, have a gelato or maybe do some shopping. Tonight, we’ll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner in our hotel.

This morning, it’s a five-minute drive to another country—Vatican City! With our expert local guide we’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings. Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the Pope is elected.

Next we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

Tonight, you'll be our guest at a fine Roman restaurant with flowing wine and great friends!

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope.)

This morning, after breakfast, we will board our chariot for a relaxing, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, Circus Maximus, an arena for horse racers during the Roman Empire, and the Synagogue.

Then we’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

Tonight,you have the chance to explore the wonderful restaurants in Rome on your own. Be sure to try some "Fiori di Zucca," a specialty in Rome: Zucchini flowers, deep fried and filled with mozzarella and sometimes, anchovies.

This morning we drive to Amalfi, one of the most famous coastlines on earth.

Along the way, we’ll stop in Pompeii! Imagine, a city perfectly preserved as it was on that fateful day 2,000-years-ago, when ash and lava literally stopped it in its tracks. You’ll see the tragic fossils of people attempting to escape along with children and dogs.

Next, we’ll settle into our home in Amalfi at the historic Hotel Luna Convento, a twelfth-century convent converted into a charming first-class hotel overlooking the sea.

Tonight, dinner at our hotel with great local wines.

Amalfi at our stern, Capri at our bow, this morning we sail to one of the world’s most enchanting islands. If weather permits, we’ll visit the Blue Grotto, famed for its translucent aquablue light. We’ll also tour the island followed by a well-deserved lunch with wine.

Later this afternoon, we’ll sail back to Amalfi. Enjoy the night on your own—there are so many wonderful restaurants to choose from!

What better way to visit the splendid towns of the Amalfi Coast than by sea!

Today we’ll sail from Amalfi to Positano. (in case of bad weather, we’ll travel by bus). There will be time to explore this picture-postcard village set on a cliff dropping into the blue Mediterranean Sea.

Then we will take a quick drive to Sorrento to enjoy a lunch featuring the fresh specialties of the Campania region.

Next we’ll return to Amalfi for a wine tasting with the best Amalfi Coast wines and the famous LIMONCELLO liquor. It goes down easily…but it’s also quite strong! Salute!

This evening is yours to enjoy as you please!

After a relaxing morning, we’ll take a short, twisty ride up the mountain to charming Ravello. The town’s beauty is so inspiring that it’s attracted world famous composers, writers and artists for centuries.

We’ll visit the beautiful Villa Ruffolo. The composer, Richard Wagner, fell in love with this place and annual concerts of his music take place here.

Enjoy the final night of your tour at a relaxing dinner in the hotel. Don’t forget to exchange contact information so you can plan another trip together!

This morning your trip home starts at the Naples Airport. Unless, of course, you have chosen to extend your stay and let this unforgettable journey continue a little longer! We hope you enjoyed Rome, Amalfi, your guide, your driver and your traveling companions. Buon viaggio and please join Perillo Tours again in the very near future.

Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off to Italy on the adventure of a lifetime!

Benvenuti a Roma! We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times. Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you.

Enjoy some free time this afternoon—take a walk on Via Veneto, have a gelato or maybe do some shopping. Tonight, we’ll meet our tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink, followed by dinner in our hotel.

This morning, it’s a ten-minute bus ride over to another country—Vatican City. With our expert local guide we’ll tour the Vatican Museums—a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.

Our visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, renowned for its Renaissance art, especially the ceiling which was painted by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512. This room, which attracts more than five million visitors each year, is also where the Pope is elected.

Next we visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24 years old, as well as Bernini’s seven story bronze canopy located above the main altar.

Afterwards, we explore some of the oldest areas of Rome – the Jewish Ghetto and Trastevere.

There’s been a Jewish community in Rome since the second-century BC. It was Pope Paul IV who ordered them into a walled-off section of town in 1555. But In 1870, the Papal States lost control of the area and the Jews were free to leave the Ghetto!

All this walking will make us hungry… Si mangia! You’ll get a taste of real Italian cuisine and fine wines in a family-style restaurant in the characteristic district of Trastevere. This lively area is just what one imagines Italy to be like, with tiny cobblestone streets and music-filled trattorias on every corner.

(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on any events planned by the Pope.)

Hail Caesar! All aboard our chariot for a relaxing, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, downtown ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus, and the Great Synagogue, built in the heart of the Jewish quarter.

Then we’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.

Tonight, we thought you’d enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your tour leader for a recommendation, or venture out and explore the lively restaurants of Rome! Be sure to try Pasta cacio e pepe—pasta in a creamy olive oil, pecorino cheese and black pepper sauce—a specialty of Rome. Don’t forget the gelato after dinner! You’re doing a lot of walking on this tour so it’s a well-deserved treat!

After a hearty breakfast, we enjoy a ride through the Tuscan countryside on our way to Florence. Our deluxe motorcoach navigates the rolling hills, scenic vineyards and postcard perfect vistas of Tuscany. Your tour leader will give you some useful information about the region while you relax and enjoy the scenery.

We check into our beautiful hotel, Villa Olmi. This villa, located just fifteen-minutes from the historic center of Florence, is a peaceful oasis of Tuscan tranquility. Tonight, we enjoy a Florentine dinner with local wines at our hotel.

Florence—the fountainhead of the Renaissance awaits our inspection! Our day of sightseeing includes the majestic Duomo built in 1926, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned Gates of Paradise doors.

We follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Basilica di Santa Croce, where Michelangelo is buried.

“Breathtaking” is the only word to describe one’s first view of Michelangelo’s David. Yes, it’s quite large and detailed. But the real magic is in how Michelangelo transformed lifeless rock into a man—full of pride, wary of his adversary, yet quietly confident. All with just a hammer and chisel!

Next we enjoy a typical Tuscan lunch. The evening is yours to do as you please!

After breakfast (colazione), we drive to Lucca, also known as “the city of 100 churches”. The churches are protected against Medieval invasions with huge, fortified walls. We visit the famous Duomo, the Amphitheater and the impressive Church of San Frediano.

This afternoon we visit Pisa! The Piazza dei Miracoli (Square of Miracles) is recognized as one of the main centers for medieval art in the world, with four great religious edifices: the Cathedral, the Campanile (the famous leaning Tower), the Baptistery and the Camposanto.

We’ll enter the Cathedral dedicated to St. Mary of the Assumption. The big candelabrum near the altar is where Galileo Galilei tested his laws of pendulum physics!

Next we enter the marble Baptistery, the largest in all of Italy. Dedicated to St. John the Baptist, the building took 211 years to construct. The acoustics are amazing…you can whisper to a person 30-feet away and they’ll hear you clearly.

Tonight, enjoy dinner on your own at a local Florentine restaurant. Be sure to try Ribollita, one of Florence’s most delicious specialties. This hearty soup is made from cannelloni beans, vegetables, red cabbage and chunks of bread (pane).

Today we travel back in time to medieval Siena – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We visit the famous Piazza del Campo, one of Europe’s greatest medieval squares and the site of the famous Palio horse race.

We’ll visit Siena’s town hall, Palazzo Pubblico, and the enchanting Duomo (cathedral) featuring the most ornate mosaic tile floor in all of Italy.

Next, we drive through the beautiful rolling hills of Chianti, for a most unique winery visit. You’ll get to meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world’s most enchanting and entertaining sommelier. Enjoy an oil and wine tasting and early dinner at the Tenuta Torciano. Salute!

This morning you board your flight home arriving in the USA the same day. Grazie mille for traveling with the Perillo family!