Italian Escape

Welcome to Rome! Once known as the 'capital of the world' this richly historic, passionate and elegant city will steal our hearts as soon as we arrive. We'll meet and greet our Contiki crew at 4pm and enjoy an included dinner this evening. (D) Stay: Hotel Genova (or similar)

Today we're headed to another richly historical and cultural city, known for it's naturally beautiful sights and excellent cuisine.  Welcome to Naples, the rough and ready but oh so charming city which encapsulates everything we love about Italy. The home of pizza, a hub of culture, and a bundle of passionate Italian energy, this is also the site of Mt Vesuvius, the infamous active volcano.

Today we have the option to check out the ruins of Pompeii, the fascinating Roman town that was destroyed by Vesuvius and then perfectly preserved in volcanic ash. Another option today is to take a tour, learning about the city, it's history and it's food culture. (B) Stay: Hotel Real Orto Botanico (or similar)

We're headed to the coast today to check out some of the most glamorous seascapes in Europe. We'll visit two spectacular Amalfi jewels today. Dramatic cliffs and idyllic buildings await us in picturesque Positano.

Next up is Capri, with its gorgeous cragged coastline and opulent cafes. Its easy to see why this is such a playground for the rich and famous. An optional Capri cruise will let us check out plenty of swim stops to beat the heat. We'll settle on the Amalfi Coast after a day of postcard pretty sun bleached buildings and sparkling sea. (B/D) Stay: A conveniently located hotel

We've got a free day on the Amalfi coast today. Lucky us. We've got plenty of optionals, including two MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences.

First up, we'll visit a lemon farm to learn how these huge, sunshine-colored fruits are harvested and turned into limoncello. Next, we're off for a Tastes of Amalfi dinner on an eco-sustainable farm, washed down with... you guessed it... lemon liqueur. (B)

We're headed back to Rome today. Time for the Colosseum? Back in Rome, you don't want to miss our optional Emperors & Gladiators tour, where you'll skip the queues, enter the jaw-dropping Colosseum through the exclusive Emperor's gate and learn all about this paragon of Roman history.

Afterwards, you'll have the chance to head out to a local restaurant and make (and eat) your very own pasta. (B) Stay: Hotel Genova (or similar)

Hold our gelato. Our hearts are melting as we bid a final ‘Ciao' to our Contiki crew after a trip we'll never forget. (B)