North Etna and Cyclops Riviera Day Tour, Sicily

Drive from your hotel along the Sicilian coast you will pass through small fishing villages of the Cyclops Riviera. The area owes its name to the “Faraglioni”, huge outcrops of rock forged by underwater lava. About 600 thousand years ago the primitive underwater lava, gave rise to Mount Etna.

The first stop of the day is in the arm of the Ionian Sea in front of Acicastello and Acitrezza villages - Acicastello takes its name by the Norman Fortress built of black lava stone which is nestled atop a rocky spur on the sea. The castle houses the small City Museum, collecting archaeological relics and mineral specimens.

Your private tour continues a few miles away to the Etna vineyards, where there will be a stop at a local winery which produces an excellent Etna DOC wine. Here you can sample the local food and taste some of the wines. Driving up to the top of Mount Etna, the differences in the terrain may well surprise you as we pass from the man-made terrace systems comprised of vineyards, citrus groves and fruit trees to the road which is bordered by chestnuts and pine forests to the lunar landscape of lava fields formed by the 2001-2002 last eruptions. Etna offers an enormous range of outings. A stroll on the northern slope of the volcano is a fabulous experience and you will get much more from it taking advantage of the knowledge of the qualified guide (Additional costs).

Before leaving Etna, you will stop at one of the villages for a sampling of typical Sicilian cookies made by flour, honey and almond or pistachio or hazelnut. Your private tour finishes with a drive along the panoramic road back to your hotel.

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Posted on April 11th, 2008 in the Italy Attractions Category
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Evening Tour of Underground Turin - Tunnels and Cellars

If you want to be captured by a secret Turin you can take part in a guided tour of Underground Turin.

Beneath the hectic and bustling city of Turin lies another mysterious and unknown world where time seems to stand still. Fifteen meters below the city, the tunnels of the citadel and the sub-cellars of the Baroque palaces are waiting to let you discover their mysteries, on sites of ancient murders which have never been solved.

The journey goes down into an air-raid shelter and includes the Royal ice depots of Porta Palazzo. Just another way to show you an unusual and exciting historical aspect of our city!

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Original Venice Walking Tour

An absolute must for the first time visitor to Venice!

Visit St. Mark’s Square and learn the history that lies behind the walls of its most famous landmarks; the Basilica and its Byzantine heritage, the Doge’s Palace (exterior only) and its adjoining prisons, that retain the true secrets to comprehend how a city built on swamps became one of the most enlightened cities in the western world. Visit the famed Basilica of St. Marks without having to stand in long queues!

Then, leave the square to discover the “real Venice” as you enter a labyrinth of narrow passageways and alleys where a magical city of meandering canals punctuated by delicate bridges awaits you. Explore the lively Campo Santa Maria Formosa with its outstanding Gothic Palaces and at the Scuola di San Marco learn about the famous trade schools of Venice that provided the foundations of the great mercantile empire.

And, through the sights and historical narrations learn how illustrious Venetians, the likes of Marco Polo, and more common citizens made this city of stone a vibrant and magical place. See Marco Polo’s House and enjoy tales of this legendary globe-trotting Venetian.

Admire the Church of San Giovanni e Paolo “the Pantheon of Venice”, enter an old merchants warehouse and see the most beautiful well-head in Venice before finishing the tour near the Rialto bridge. And of course, discover the Venice of today, and what it is like to live in the most beautiful city of the world. The tour will conveniently conclude at the Rialto Bridge.

Skip the Line! Book your Original Venice Walking Tour ahead of time to take advantage of jumping the queue at St. Marks Basilica. Don’t waste time waiting in lines on vacation! Please note, occasionally the Basilica will be closed to the public (without notice) because of festivities or high water.

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Murano, Burano and Torcello Half Day Sightseeing Tour

Explore the famous islands of Murano and Burano, famous for their handicrafts and see Torcello to visit the first Cathedral in Venice. Board a comfortable motor boat and speed along the Venetian Lagoon to Murano Island, famous for its glass blowing. In 1921, the glass-blowing industry in Venice was moved to the island due to fire hazards and has become famous for its craft. During the visit explore shops, factories and watch the skilled glass blowers as they create works of art. There is time to visit a museum showcasing the world-famous Murano glass also.

Re-board your motor boat and journey to the island of Burano to admire picturesque fishermen’s houses painted in bright pastel colors, and of course the famous lace. A beautiful museum dedicated to the craft of lace is available to visit. There is also time for you to purchase the beautiful lace at local shops.

The last island stop is Torcello, the earliest center of civilization in the Venetian Lagoon. Go to Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, which was the first church in Venice, founded in the 7th century. The Church of Santa Fosca has excavated remains of the circular baptistery that you will visit also.

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Venice Gondola Ride and Serenade

Likely to Sell-out! Gondola Serenade on the Canals of Venice regularly sells out weeks in advance. Book ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Share this evening on a gondola serenade in Venice. You will board with other guests and together enjoy floating along the canals of Venice. Be captivated by the glamour and elegance of the city and its magnificent palaces and churches facing the Grand Canal. One of the gondoliers will play music and sing songs throughout the 35-minute ride. Great value for money!

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Venice in One Day - The Original Venice Walk and Grand Canal Boat Tour

Start with a two hour Original Venice Walking Tour featuring all the important monuments from San Marco Square to the Rialto Bridge. Visit St. Mark’s Square and learn the history that lies behind the walls of its most famous landmarks, the Basilica and its Byzantine heritage and the Doge’s Palace and its adjoining prisons, that retain the true secrets to comprehend how a city built on swamps became one of the most enlightened cities in the western world. Visit the famed Basilica of St. Marks without having to stand in long queues!

Then, leave the crowds behind to discover the real Venice and enter a labyrinth of narrow passageways, alleys, canals and delicate bridges. Explore Campo Santa Maria Formosa with its Gothic Palaces and at the Scuola di San Marco learn about the famous trade schools that provided the foundations of the great mercantile empire. See Marco Polo’s House, and enjoy tales of this legendary globe-trotting Venetian. Admire the Church of San Giovanni e Paolo “the Pantheon of Venice”, enter an old merchant’s warehouse and see the most beautiful well-head in Venice, before finishing the tour near the Rialto Bridge. In between the Venice walking tour and boat tour, you will have free time. Exact time will vary (depends on time of year).

Next, take the Grand Canal Boat Tour. Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Grand Canal of Venice where you will learn the history of the stunning palaces and churches that line its banks, as well as a few anecdotes about the famous people who have resided on Venice’s most important street. Savor a glass of sparkling Prosecco wine, as you enjoy a fascinating tour of the minor canals of Venice.

Skip the Line! Book your Venice in One Day Tour ahead of time to take advantage of jumping the queue at St. Marks Basilica. Don’t waste time waiting in lines!

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Skip the Line: Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour

Skip the Line! Book your Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel Tour ahead of time to take advantage of jumping the queue. Don’t waste time waiting in lines on vacation!

Board the bus and begin your tour passing through Piazza della Repubblica with the Fountain of the Nayads, and follows the ancient Aurelian Walls, once surrounding the city of Rome. You will drive past the famous Villa Borghese gardens and the northern gate of the ancient city leading into Piazza del Popolo, where you will see an Egyptian obelisk dating back to the time of Ramses II. The city tour includes a live commentary by the guide. It is a brief introduction only as you travel by bus to Vatican City and the beginning of the walking portion of your tour.

Upon arrival your guide will lead you into the Vatican Museums taking the beautiful spiral stairway and continuing through the Gallery of the Tapestries and the Gallery of the Geographical Maps before arriving at the famous Sistine Chapel with its magnificent fresco of the Last Judgement by Michelangelo.

All entrance fees to the Vatican Museums are included in the tour price. Book now to gain access to the Vatican Museums with pre-booked skip long lines tickets. Tours are conducted with passionate local multilingual guides who have a proficient knowledge of history and art.

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Rome Hop On Hop Off Double Decker Bus Tour

Explore Rome at your own pace on an extensive hop on hop off itinerary through the heart of Rome. The buses are open top which allows you to enjoy full 360 degree panoramic views as you travel along your route.

The buses are equipped with a personalized throwaway audio system which functions in 6 different languages, providing recorded commentary throughout the tour. There is also an English and Italian speaking host onboard each bus to assist with any queries. You will be provided with a set of earphones which you keep and use for the duration of your ticket.

You have the choice of a 24 or 48 hours ticket with which to make use of the 9 stops in the most beautiful, cultural and evocative areas of the Eternal city. The tour operates 365 days per year.

The double decker green bus departs Termini Station every 15 to 20 minutes giving you plenty of opportunities to explore each stop in detail. If you were to stay on the bus for the entire loop, it would take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

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Tuscan Wine Cellar and Cooking Course with Lunch and Dinner

Depart Pisa for Casciana Terme and enjoy some time to take a walk on the narrow central streets of the well-known spa center.

Transfer to a nearby wine cellar to have a lunch based on typical food products of the region (bruschetta, wine, extra virgin olive oil, salami).

After lunch, continue to a farm house in the greenery to start your cooking lessons. You will be given some useful tools, such as an apron, a knife and a cutting board. The professional cook will teach you to prepare some delicious Tuscan hors d’oeuvre Antipasti (canape, vegetable pie, courgette flowers) and to prepare pasta or soup dishes.

The choice of the recipes varies according to the season. At the end of the lesson you will enjoy the meal you have prepared yourself.

Excellent wines will be served to complement the meal, making it an unforgettable dinner. You will be given a notepad on which you can take notes regarding the prepared recipes. After dinner, you will return back to the railway station at Pisa with a full stomach and a happy heart.

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Full Day Private Tour - Erice and Segesta

In the morning you go on tracks of the ancient Elymian people as far as the ancient town of Calatafimi of Arab origin. Just a few kilometers from here, you arrive in Segesta where you can easily imagine what it was like to live in Sicily in ancient times. Segesta’s history is intertwined with its arch-rival Selinunte. It offers the visit, on the cliff, to the 5th Century Doric Temple held up by 36 columns and the Hellenistic Theatre - carved in the rock - overlooks the splendid view from the top of Mount Barbaro at an elevation of 400 meters above sea level.

Taking into consideration all the Greek sites and temples existing in Sicily, we encourage you to see Segesta during your stay in Sicily, not only for the structures themselves, but for the beautiful and natural setting. Then you reach Erice, ancient Punic and Greek town (about 751 meters above sea level) on the mountain that has the same name. Surrounded by ancient walls, it is a labyrinth of clattered old stone streets and medieval churches adorned by beautiful buildings. In the historical center you will visit the Matrice with its marvelous bell tower and the Balio. There are some ancient Elimi and Phoenician walls around the north eastern side of the city, and two castles: Pepoli Castle - with foundations dating from Saracen times - and Venus Castle, dating from the Norman era but built on ruins of the ancient Temple of Venus.

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Naples City and Pompeii Half Day Sightseeing Tour

Enjoy a sightseeing tour, which includes stops at the Cathedral to visit its Treasure Chapel with a charming baroque style and S.Restituta basilica, the first paleochristian church which dates back to 4th century AD.

Drive to Plebiscite Square to see the front of the Royal Palace and the beautiful church of St Francesco di Paula in its neoclassical style.

Continue to the Town Hall Square and the New Castle built by the French Family of Anjo. At Posillipo admire the wonderful views of the city before driving to Pompeii.

Here you can explore the most fascinating places under the expert guidance of your tour guide. See the Forum, the Thermal Baths, Vetti’s House and “Lupanare”, all buried by volcanic ashes and lapilli during the eruption in AD79.

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Capri Day Tour with Lunch from Naples

After being picked up from your hotel, transfer to the main harbor for your journey to Capri by high speed hydrofoil.

On arrival at the Port of Capri, transfer to Anacapri by minibus. Enjoy free time to visit Villa San Michele, located on the north-eastern side of Anacapri, was the home of Swedish doctor and writer Axel Munthe. Travel to the top of Monte Solare by chair lift then return to Capri for lunch.

In the early afternoon you will walk to Augustus’ gardens and there is free time to see the Blue Grotto (not included in tour cost)before returning to Naples.

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Amalfi Coast Private Day Tour including Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello from Naples

amalfi-coast-private-day-tour-including-sorrento-positano-amalfi-and-in-naples-1The towns of Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello are four of the most beautiful in the south of Italy and have gained worldwide fame for their charm. A journey or excursion to this area is a perfect choice for anyone who wishes to have a real taste of the southern Italian landscape.

Take this private full day excursion to explore the Amalfi Coast with a driver to chauffeur you around. You have the option to spend as little or as much time as possible in the picturesque towns of Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi and Ravello.

Nowhere do colors shine with such different, clear tones as on the Amalfi Coast, which has always attracted visitors of the greatest prestige. The villages scattered along the coast bewitch every visitor, even the most astute. The charm lies not only in the places themselves but also in their history, which has left important traces in art. Here you can find some of the finest churches, villas and monasteries.

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Lake Como Full Day Tour from Milan

Once you arrive at Lake Como, you will have free time to explore the city center, shop and have lunch. After lunch, take a panoramic boat cruise on the lake before you transfer by bus to the Basilica S. Abbondio (beautiful Romanesque church with precious fresco paintings). Lastly, you will have a coffee break at La Tessitura, the new silk shop and events area opened by Mantero Seta.

With a surface of 146 square meters, Lake Como is the third largest lake in Italy, after Lake Garda and Lake Verbano. The peculiar shape - a Y turned upside down - is due to its three branches: Colico, the northern branch, Lecco, the south east branch and Como, the south west branch, with a perimeter totaling 105 miles (170 kilometers); between Como and Argegno, the lake reaches a depth of 1345 feet (410 meters) (it is the deepest lake in Europe). The entire lake is surrounded by mountains. The lake has 37 tributaries. The most important is the river Adda. The only island on the Lake is Isola Comacina facing the village of Sala Comacina, on the Como branch.

Along the shores, in particular from Cernobbio to Gravedona and Bellagio, you will see wonderful villas and gardens with plenty of flowers as well as exotic and rare plants. For instance, Villa d’Este at Cernobbio, which is today a luxurious hotel, has a magnificent garden. Last century Como gained world fame because of the novel The Betrothed, by Alessandro Manzoni, set on the Lecco branch of the Lake.

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Milan City Sightseeing Tour including il Cenacolo - Da Vinci’s “Last Supper”

See one of the most famous art images in the world, Leonardo da Vinci’s, the “Last Supper”. This masterpiece is housed at the Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy and reservations to see the “Last Supper” are limited and sell out quickly (sometimes months in advance). This guided tour guarantees advance booking and entrance tickets.

It has earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list. It has also enjoyed increased popularity after Dan Brown’s novel, The Da Vinci Code.

The day includes a walking tour introducing you to this stylish Italian city. Milan is the world’s design capital and rivals Paris as a leading fashion center. Shopping is of almost religious significance! Theater and cinema flourish in this fashionable city, as does a hopping club scene and tempting restaurants and cafes where Verdi and other composers dined, are plentiful. Visit the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele and the Castello Sforzesco.

Next, the breathtaking Duomo is one of the world’s largest, most striking Gothic cathedrals. Some 135 spires and 3200 statues are crammed onto the roof and into the facade. The central spire is capped by a gilded copper statue of the Madonnina (our little Madonna) and is Milan’s traditional protector.

Also visit the fabulous playhouse of La Scala, one of the world’s best known Opera Houses. Visit the theatre and your entrance ticket allows admission into the museum where you may choose to return to later for a longer visit.

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Pisa and The Leaning Tower Tour from Florence

After a panoramic drive, travel along the Arno embankments where the tour begins with a guided visit of Piazza dei Miracoli. It’s easy to find the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa, an unequalled masterpiece of Romanesque art carried out between the 11th and 12th centuries. You will visit the Baptistery and other important monuments, including a visit to the Cathedral (visit inside).

An assistant will walk you to Piazza dei Cavalieri, where you will find Scuola Normale, one of the most famous universities in the world. Founded by Napoleon in 1810, it has been educating students and carrying out research for nearly two centuries.

Please note:
Entry to the Leaning Tower is not included. Depending on time available on the day, you may have the opportunity to go up the tower during the free time spent there. However, please be advised that only a limited number of people are allowed in the tower and queues, particularly during high season (July/August), may have a long waiting time.

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Florence City Sightseeing Morning, Afternoon or Full Day Tour

The ideal way to discover Florence!

Book the morning or afternoon tours separately or combine them to make a full day tour of Florence. The choice is yours! All entrance tickets to the Galleria dell Accademia and Galleria degli Uffizi are included in the tour price (depends on option). Book now to gain quick access with pre-booked skip long lines tickets.

Florence Morning Tour:
Drive along the romantic Viale dei Colli up to Piazzale Michelangelo and admire the wonderful panorama of Florence. Next, proceed to the old city center and take a walking tour of the Duomo complex, Giotto’s bell tower, the Baptistery with its bronze doors including the Porta del Paradiso and the see the Cathedral with the magnificent Cupola del Brunelleschi. A short walk brings you to the world-famous Galleria dell Accademia (*) where you can see David by Michelangelo. You will conclude the tour inside Galleria dell Accademia, or choose to end your morning tour with lunch at a restaurant in the town center.

Florence Afternoon Tour:
Appreciate the panoramic views of the unparalleled beauty of Florence, taking in Fiesole, a delightful town of Etruscan origin set on the hills overlooking Florence and the Arno Valley. A must see for any visitor to Florence! Next, visit the old city for see the Franciscan Church of Santa Croce (exterior). A short walk through the the heart of Florence brings you to the famous Piazza Signoria, where you can see the imposing Palazzo Vecchio (exterior) and the beautiful Loggia del Lanzi. Next visit the Galleria degli Uffizi (**) to admire the superb paintings of Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello and Giotto.  You will conclude the tour inside Galleria degli Uffizi.

Florence Full Day Tour:
A combination of the Morning Tour including light lunch and followed by the Afternoon Tour.

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Chianti Region with Wine Tasting Afternoon Tuscany Tour from Florence

Enjoy an excursion to one of the most famous areas of Tuscany, known all over the world for its wine and countryside of unequalled beauty. Alternating woods with vines and olive trees, where Romanesque Churches, farmhouses, Villas and Castles of rare beauty are to be found.

This tour includes a visit to a place of particular historic and artistic interest in an old village, and of one of the most renowned castle farms with a snack and tasting of its prestigious wines. The tours are carried out in different areas of the Chianti region, and the trip from Florence to Chianti is approximately 40 minutes each way.

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Siena and San Gimignano Full Day Tuscany Tour from Florence

Discover the countryside of the Chianti region, with ever changing scenery of vineyards and olive trees.

On arrival into Siena, you will be given a guided tour of this magnificent medieval city. Admire the interior of the Cathedral, with the Piccolomini Library, the Opera Metropolitana Museum. The tour will then proceed to Piazza del Campo, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe, and the Town Hall (outside). You will be given free time for lunch (not included).

You will visit San Gimignano, a tiny city that has remained intact through the centuries. The city is situated on top of a hill and is famous for its numerous towers, frescoes and other art treasures. You will be given free time to explore this fascinating city.

On the return journey, you will see the old medieval village of Monteriggioni, enclosed by its famous walls which are still intact.

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Skip the Line: Florence Uffizi Gallery Tour

Book your Skip the Line: Florence Uffizi Gallery Tour ahead of time to take advantage of jumping the queue. You will be accompanied by a expert guide, who will guide you through the famous Uffizi Gallery, occupying the top floor of an impressive building erected by Giorgio Vasari between 1560 and 1580. Admire the superb paintings of Botticelli, Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Raffaello, Giotto, Cimabue and Masaccio.

All entrance fees to the Uffizi Gallery are included in the tour price. Book now to gain quick access to the museum with pre-booked skip long lines tickets. Tours are conducted with passionate English speaking guides who have a proficient knowledge of history and art.

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