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sell11 Day Green Heart of Italy Tour 2024

11 Days / 9 Nights   Starting at $3795 PP (Land Rate)

Discover the region of Umbria, also known as "the Green Heart of Italy", along with Tuscany and Rome on this new 11 day tour. Enjoy a wine tasting and an unforgettable hands-on cooking class with a Tuscan chef! Go on an exciting truffle hunt with a truffle hunter and his trained dogs. Visit the Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi and discover Gubbio, a well-preserved medieval town dating back to the Etruscan period.

Important: There are many steps and different buildings in Castello di Spaltena, the hotel in Tuscany. Anyone with reduced mobility should consider a different tour.

Itinerary

Depart USA - Rome

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

Arrive in Rome - Afternoon at Leisure - Dinner in Hotel

SUNDAY: Benvenuti a Roma, the Eternal City! 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. There will be time to relax this afternoon before dinner with fine local vino at our hotel.

Rome City Sightseeing - Colosseum - Dinner Out Tonight

MONDAY: This morning, you’ll get to experience a delicious Italian breakfast, complete with cappuccino, fresh juices, croissants, fresh breads along with salami, cheeses and of course bacon and eggs!

Next, we depart the hotel for a panoramic tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, the Circus Maximus, and the Great Synagogue build 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 enjoy a fun dinner out.

*Colosseum entrance subject to ticket availability*

Rome - Vatican Museums - Sistine Chapel - St. Peter's Basilica

TUESDAY: This morning, after breakfast, it’s a 10-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.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy! Take a stroll along the ancient streets of Rome, enjoy a gelato or go shopping!

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

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

Rome - Spoleto - Assisi - Dinner in Hotel

WEDNESDAY: This morning after breakfast, we check out of our hotel and travel to the beautiful region of Umbria, also known as Italy’s “Green Heart”. Our first stop will be Spoleto, a hidden gem. This ancient hilltop town is one of the oldest cities in Italy – its history dates back more than 2500 years. It was an important Roman colony and later capital of the Longobard Duchy.

We’ll enjoy a walk through the narrow streets to see the Cathedral, a most complex building with magnificent frescoes by Filippo Lippi (15th century). We’ll come to the bridge called Ponte delle Torri (bridge of the towers), the symbol of Spoleto and one of the city’s panoramic points. It was originally an aqueduct, first built by the Romans then rebuilt in the 12th century to ensure a reliable water supply to Spoleto.

For more than 50 years, Spoleto has been known worldwide for hosting the Festival of the Two Worlds, featuring artists from all over the world in concerts, dance and various exhibitions.

Next, we’ll drive to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy’s most famous patron saints. We’ll check in to our beautiful hotel and then head out on a walking tour with a local guide. We visit the Pala Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, an important pilgrimage site dedicated to St. Francis. We will also visit a crypt where the remains of St. Francis are kept.

Of course, we’ll have to stop for an olive oil tasting at a family-owned oil mill as the extra virgin olive oils from Umbria are some of the finest in the country.

Tonight, we’ll relax in our hotel and enjoy dinner with fine local wines.

Assisi - Gubbio - Wine Tasting & Lunch - Assisi

THURSDAY: This morning, we depart for Gubbio, a well-preserved medieval town dating back to the Etruscan period. We’ll take a guided walking tour of this wonderful medieval city, famous for the largest Christmas tree in the world.

We’ll see the Palace of the Consuls, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spoleto, located in the main square: Piazza del Duomo. The palace, which was built in the early 13th century by the city of Spoleto to serve as the seat of the city’s government, is one of the most important examples of medieval civic architecture in Italy.

Next, we’ll enjoy a wine tasting and lunch at Cantina Semonte.

After lunch we’ll return to our hotel and the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Be sure to ask your tour leader for restaurant suggestions.

Assisi - Lake Trasimeno - Maggiore Island - Wine Tasting & Lunch - Perugia - Assisi - Dinner Out

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

Next, we’ll return to shore and will take a ride to the “Carini Family Winery” to enjoy a wine tasting and lunch.

After lunch, we’ll return to Perugia for a walking tour with your tour leader. Perugia, a popular destination for tourists who come to explore its charming street, museums and art galleries is also a food lover’s paradise! We’ll have some free time to shop or have ice cream.

Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner out at a local restaurant with fine wines.

Assisi - Lucignano - La Bagnaia Siena - Dinner in Siena

SATURDAY: This morning, after breakfast, we’ll check out of our hotel and enjoy a ride through the Tuscan countryside. On our way to Florence, we’ll stop to visit Lucignano, one of the most fascinating but lesser-known medieval destinations of Tuscany. Here we will discover a past that’s still alive thanks to hidden treasures like the unique “Tree of Life,” a masterpiece of Gothic jewelry in the shape of a tree.

You’ll have some free time to enjoy a quick lunch before we depart for La Bagnaia Resort.

This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of Siena. We’ll stroll through this amazing city which looks like a fascinating maze of alleys that rise and fall and intersect.

Our guided tour will include the elaborately carved Duomo, one of the greatest examples of Italian Romanesque-Gothic architecture. It is said that the great composer Richard Wagner, upon seeing the Cathedral of Siena for the first time, was moved to tears. You’ll be amazed at the art and beauty as well as its wonderful marble floor which is a unique example in the history of art.

Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner out in Siena with fine local wines.

La Bagnaia Siena - Florence City Sightseeing - The David - La Bagnaia Siena - Dinner in Siena

SUNDAY: Florence – also known as the “Cradle of the Renaissance,” awaits our inspection! Our sightseeing today 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, home of Santa Croce Church, 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!

You’ll have some free time in Florence to shop and wander around.

Tonight, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner in our hotel with fine local wines.

La Bagnaia Siena - San Gimignano - Truffle Hunt - Olive Oil & Wine Tasting - Cooking Class & Dinner

MONDAY: Today, we will drive through the beautiful rolling hills of Chianti for a most unique winery visit but first we’ll stop for a tour of San Gimignano along the way. This medieval town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its 14th-century towers, which rise above the town’s skyline.

Once at the winery, you’ll get to meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world’s most enchanting and entertaining sommelier. First, we’ll start with a truffle hunt: accompanied by a guide with his trained dogs you’ll watch as they skillfully use their noses to find these delicacies.

Next, we’ll enjoy an olive oil and wine tasting while taking a fun, hands-on cooking class with a chef. I hope this meal tastes good because it will be served to you for dinner! This will be a truly fun, memorable day!

Flight Home - La Bagnaia Siena - Florence - USA

TUESDAY: This morning our bus will take us back to Florence airport for our return flights 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….and maybe some wine too! Arrivederci Italia!

Inclusions

  • Centrally Located 4 & 5 star Hotels
  • More Motorcoach Legroom
  • Airport Transfers at Scheduled Times
  • Full Breakfast Daily
  • 2 Lunches & 7 Dinners
  • Olive Oil & Wine Tasting
  • Truffle Hunt
  • Cooking Class
  • Wireless Headsets To Hear Your Tour Guide Clearly
  • Travel Wallet, Baggage Tags and Travel Documents Included
  • Baggage Handling Throughout (Except at Airports)
  • Hotel Taxes, City Taxes, Hotel Service Charges and all Tips For Hotel and Restaurant Personnel
  • Professional Tour Directors and Licensed Local Guides
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi On Our Buses

Hotel Info

Overnight Stays: Rome (3 nights) Assisi (3) Gaiole in Chianti (SIENA) (3)
Also Visiting: Spoleto, Gubbio, Lake Trasimeno, Maggiore Island, Perugia, Lucignano, Siena, San Gimignano
Grand Hotel Palace ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Experience luxury at The Grand Hotel Palace, 5 star boutique located in the heart of Rome city center on the Via Veneto with dazzling rooftop views, elegant interiors and an abundance of historic charm. Example of Belle Époque luxury on the glamorous street of Via Veneto, it was designed by legendary architect Marcello Piacentini in 1927 and beautifully restored by award-winning architect, Italo Rota in 2010 to blend timeless Italian design with 21st century modernity. Marble floors, grand Murano crystal chandeliers and stunning frescoes by Venetian artist Guido Cadorin embody the true essence of La Dolce Vita.

Rome

Valle di Assisi ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

The 4 star Valle di Assisi Spa & Golf is one of the best luxury hotels in Italy, offering the perfect blend of everything Umbria envelopes.

Assisi

Castello di Spaltenna ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Castello di Spaltenna is located in Gaiole in Chianti, in the heart of the Chianti Classico wine region. 

It's just 20 minutes from Siena, less than one hour from Florence and at a few minutes from the most renowned towns of the Chianti Classico wine region such as Radda, Panzano, Castellina, Greve and Castelnuovo Berardenga. 

Tuscany

Air Info

Airfares are unpredictable and impossible to estimate at time of brochure printing. Your airfare can range anywhere from approximately $1,000 to $1,900 depending on your departure city. Additionally, current departure tax and fuel surcharges are approximately $650 per person and are subject to change.

Your exact airfare will be advised within 3 business days of booking your tour. You are under no obligation to accept Perillo's air schedule and quote. However, payment for tickets issued by Perillo Tours is due with "final payment."

Airfares DO include your roundtrip airport transfer in Italy at scheduled times, provided you arrive and depart on scheduled tour dates. If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, airport transfers are not included.

Book Early

We strongly recommend you BOOK EARLY as lowest airfares are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Plus, more availability on the most convenient flights and best seats.

Affordable Upgrades

When you purchase your Coach ticket through Perillo Tours, you can upgrade to "Premium Economy" on select flights starting at $550 each way. For ultimate comfort enjoy Business Class/First Class for a surcharge of as little as $4,000 per person.

Security Measures

The Transportation Security Administration requires all passengers to provide the exact name as it appears on the government-issued passport, passport number, expiration date, date of birth and gender when making airline reservations. This information will be requested at time of booking for all flight arrangements made through Perillo Tours.

CRITICALLY IMPORTANT: Name corrections are subject to change fees, so please have your passport in-hand when calling us for flight reservations.

Arranging your own air?

Roundtrip airport transfers are provided at scheduled times if you arrive and depart the same day as the tour begins and ends. Click here for the schedule.

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Optional Tour Add-Ons

Add-On
Price (in EUR)

Duration: 1.5 hrs
City: Rome

Step into the captivating world of Renaissance Rome on our immersive walking tour, where we'll discover iconic landmarks like Bernini's Fountains, the majestic Spanish Steps, and the legendary Trevi Fountain—be sure to toss a coin and make a wish! (Note: On Monday mornings, the Trevi Fountain may be without water, as maintenance personnel collect coins.) Marvel at the grandeur of the Piazza of the Pantheon and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of the renowned Piazza Navona. Join us as we embark on this fascinating journey through history and art, uncovering the splendors of Rome's Renaissance treasures.

Duration: 4 hrs
City: Rome

Immerse yourself in history as you explore the charming town and behold the magnificent Villa d'Este, a masterpiece of the Italian Garden and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its breathtaking array of fountains, grottoes, and captivating water displays accompanied by music. After this enchanting experience, return to Rome, enriched by the beauty and splendor of Italy's cultural heritage.

You can find out more about our Italy tours and talk with other passengers on our Perillo Tours Travelers Facebook page.

format_quote Testimonials

Our trip to Italy (Versuvius Tour) was an outstanding experience thanks to Daniela Senise and the Perillo Team. Daniela was an awesome tour director managing our itinerary while keeping an eye on all the details to ensure we had a great experience. I know there are others behind the scenes working on the details too and want to express my appreciation for them as well.

Ms. S.P.

My wife and I just returned from our North Continental 14 Day tour of Italy and wanted to let you know it was fabulous. We cannot think of a better way to see so much great art and history and culture in such a short time. Thanks again for offering such a great tour.

Mr. & Mrs. M.E.