Trip Itinerary
Depart USA
Arrive Rome: After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore the Italian capital. This evening meet your Contiki Tour Manager and fellow travelers at 6pm in the hotel. Afterwards, walk the ancient streets passing the famous Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and Piazza Navona.
Rome Sightseeing: Today, why not discover the ancient ruins of Rome with a local guide and in your free time leisurely discover the secrets of the Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel. Tonight a chance to try fabulous traditional Roman cuisine. (B)
Rome to Florence: We head north to the hills of Tuscany and the Renaissance city of Florence. A chance to shop for local products and enjoy the unique atmosphere of the scenic capital of Tuscany. Tonight, your opportunity to sample traditional Tuscan hospitality. (B)
Florence at leisure: Your day to discover this amazing city. This morning our local guide in Florence takes us on a walking tour of the Duomo, Giotto?s Bell tower, Basilica of Santa Croce and Piazza della Signoria. Enjoy a demonstration of Florentine leathercraft, shop for gold and silver. (B,D)
Florence to Pisa: Why not see Michaelangelo?s David or cross the Arno River by way of the famous Ponte Vecchio before we visit Pisa, home of the famous Leaning Tower. Then enter into the unspoilt Cinque Terre Region. (B,D)
Pisa to Nice: Discover the scenic Cinque Terre region. Leaving by boat from LaSpezia, we stop at Portovenere, time to enjoy a coffee before continuing to the picturesque village of Riomaggiore. We arrive at Monterosso where we join our coach to leave Italy and head for France and the French Riviera. (B,D) Please note: Winter departures WWDMA, the Cinque Terre cruise is replaced with a guided tour of the famous Carrara marble quarries.
French Riviera at leisure: Relax this morning and soak up the atmosphere of the capital of the Riviera. A chance to shop or enjoy the beach. An opportunity to visit the medieval hilltop town of St Paul de Vence. Tonight we visit Monaco, to see the Royal Palace and Monte Carlo Casino (B)
Nice to Avignon: A visit to a French Perfumery before continuing to Aix-en-Provence for lunch, the home of Paul Cezanne. This afternoon time to explore Avignon, City of the Popes. (B,D)
Avignon to Barcelona: We visit Carcassone for lunch, a perfect example of a medieval walled defence city. Then, goodbye to France, as we head to Catalonia?s most famous city, Barcelona. (B,D)
Barcelona sightseeing: Our city orientation takes in Gaudi?s amazing art nouveau cathedral, a real ?must see?, and the 1992 Olympic Games complex. Later our walking tour takes us to the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas. A chance to shop for Spain?s famous Lladro porcelain, Majorica Pearls and leather. An opportunity to try Paella and maybe a Flamenco show. Tonight you are free to check out Barcelona?s lively night scene. (B)
Barcelona to Madrid: We travel west to Zaragoza. See the impressive Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Pilar. A chance to lunch in this city of 4 cultures. Then it?s on to Madrid! (B,D)
Madrid sightseeing: Our morning sightseeing includes a guided tour of the Royal Palace. The rest of the day is free for you to discover this amazing city. Perhaps a visit to the Bullring (summer departures only) or the famous Prado Museum. Tonight, get together for a last night meal to complete a memorable tour! (B)
Depart Madrid: Your tour finishes after breakfast this morning. Time to swap addresses and say goodbye. (B)
