Commencing in central Milan at midday we will transfer you to Stresa on wonderful Lake Maggiore, where you will stay the next four nights. Join us tonight for a welcome drink before dinner. This is an ideal chance to meet, and get to know your fellow travellers. Accommodation: Stresa. D

This morning we drive to Como and follow the lake shore to Villa Carlotta – a romantic Italianate garden facing across Lake Como to Bellagio and famous for its Rhododendrons and Azaleas. Later we cruise on Lake Como to delightful Bellagio - on the tip of the peninsula and surrounded by the Alps. There’s time to enjoy this delightful town with its lakeside villas and gardens, elegant shops and stylish al fresco dining. B,D

Following a deep valley we soon reach the mountain village of Macugnaga, close to the Swiss border. Used as a location in many films, the village is famous for its beautifully preserved wooden huts and chalets, and the stunning backdrop of the Monte Rosa (Pink) Massif and Dufourspitze – Europe's 2nd highest mountain. Explore the village or take a mountain cable car, enjoy lunch and the extraordinary views. Later we visit the delightful town of Orta San Giulio on beautiful Lake Orta. B

We cruise to the famous Lake Maggiori islands. First is Isola Bella and the Borromeo palace and gardens. See Murano glass chandeliers, intricate tapestries and paintings and spectacular formal gardens covering the island, with patterned flower beds falling in terraces, statues and ornamental stonework in the Italianate style. Next we visit Isola Pescatori (Fisherman's island). Lunchtime on the small, picturesque island with its quaint cafes beside tiny boats and fishing nets. Afternoon at leisure in Stresa. B

Bidding farewell to Lake Maggiore we drive east and arrive at Lake Garda late morning. This is the largest of the Italian lake and is surrounded by lemon and citrus groves. There will be time at leisure for lunch in one of the colourful and diverse lakeside towns. Accommodation: Garda B,D

We depart for Venice where we board a private boat to take us along the magnificent Grand Canal to St Marc's Square, where our expert local guide takes us for a walking tour. The rest of the day is free to explore the narrow, water lined streets and alleys spanned by humped back bridges. B

We arrive in the charming spa town of Montecatini Terme mid afternoon. Once a favourite 'cure resort' of the crowned heads of state from all over Europe. Accommodation: Montecatini. B,D

Today we visit Florence where we are joined by a local guide who brings to life this truly beautiful city, - the 'Cradle of the Renaissance'. We start with the famous Accademia Gallery, home to Michelangelo's 'David' and numerous other works of art. We see the Duomo and the magnificent statues in Piazza della Signoria. Your afternoon is free to enjoy Florence at your own pace. See Santa Croce where Michelangelo is buried, have a gelato, check out the leatherwear or the jewellery on the Ponte Vecchio. B,D

Free day today. Maybe take the local train back to the museums and shops of Florence. Alternatively explore Montecatini's old centre and parklands, or pamper yourself in one of the Spas or relax. B

We explore the famous Cinque Terre. The name means 'five lands' and comes from the five unspoilt fishing villages that cling to the cliffs, overlooking the sea. We have arranged a coastal boat ride for you to admire the spectacular scenery and fishing villages, and to visit Portovenere and Monterosso. B,D

Our first stop today is Lucca - a medieval walled city, filled with palaces, churches, ancient houses and the former home of Puccini, where he wrote Turandot. Walk the city walls for the very best views, or visit Piazza San Michele and stroll along the shops of Borgo Giannotti. Later we visit Pisa with its famous Leaning Tower, Cathedral and Baptistery in the magnificent Piazza dei Miracoli. B

We make the short drive across Tuscany to the fairytale 'town of towers' San Gimignano, famous for its 13 & 14th C towers. Lunchtime at leisure in the beautifully medieval Siena amongst great sights such as the town hall and Piazza del Campo, (scene of the famous Palio horse race). Next we go the hills of Umbria and the walled town of Spoleto for 2 nights. Medieval Spoleto is easily explored on foot - see romanesque churches, cobbled alleyways lined with shops and trattorias. Accommodation: Spoleto. B,D

We spend this morning in Assisi - dominated by two medieval castles. On arrival we are joined by a local guide to tour the Basilica of St Francis with its magnificent frescoes. Then time to explore Assisi at your own pace. Return to Spoleto, and afternoon at leisure. Perhaps take a leisurely walk along the path around the castle and across the medieval viaduct. B,D

Heading south past Vesuvius we arrive in Naples, our base for the next 3 nights. Naples is regarded as Italy’s hidden masterpiece. Once run down and derided Naples has now cleaned up its act and redefined itself. It bursts with castles, palaces and squares, plus there is also a revitalised sea front, excellent shopping and of course it’s the home of the country’s best pizza and pasta. Naples is also a perfect base for visiting the nearby island of Capri and the Amalfi Coast. On arrival we have a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed historic centre with its glorious architecture and piazzas. The rest of the afternoon is free to visit the palaces, castles, museums or simply shop in the fashionable Chiaia district. B,D

Enjoy your day as we take you on the ferry across to Marina Grande on the island of Capri, which the Roman emperor Tiberius made his capital. On arrival we meet our local guide and board a bus which takes us to the top of the island to explore the charming village of Anacapri. We also have time amongst the boutiques and galleries in the main town, Capri. Your evening is at leisure in Naples.  B

Today experience the world famous ‘Amalfi Coast’. It is famous for its twisting, winding scenic coastal road with picturesque villages and towns hugging the cliffs and craggy coves. After time exploring Amalfi town, we visit one of the most scenic hilltop towns - Ravello. Perched on the mountain, commanding panoramic views across the coast, it is described as being “nearer to the sky than it is to the sea”, and has been a favourite haunt of artists and composers for centuries. Dinner tonight is in a local Pizzeria where they really know how to make it.  B,D

On our way back to Rome today we visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii, where a local guide takes us through the city that was buried under volcanic ash in AD 79. Paintings, furniture, mosaics, sculptures, graffiti and even loaves in ovens are wonderfully preserved. After checking into our central Rome hotel, our finalé will be a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.  B,D

The tour concludes after breakfast. B
Includes: Meals: B = Continental breakfast, D = Welcome or other dinners as per final
itinerary.