The History, the Shore & the Romance of Italy — A Private Tour Experience

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The Shore, the History and the Romance of Italy

cities: rome - sorrento - venice
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An 9-Day Journey Through Italy’s Most Captivating Sights and Sensations

If you’re seeking the full spectrum of Italy’s charm, this unforgettable 9-day escape brings together the perfect blend of art, culture, coastal beauty, and romance. Begin in Rome, where ancient ruins and baroque masterpieces tell the story of a civilization that shaped the Western world. Stroll through centuries of history, from the Colosseum and Roman Forum to the Vatican Museums and St. Peter’s Basilica.

Next, unwind along the Amalfi Coast, where cliffside villages, cerulean waters, and a private boat tour of Capri provide a sun-soaked retreat. Indulge in regional cuisine, sip wine overlooking the sea, and explore Pompeii with your expert guide.

Then, let the magic of Venice sweep you away. Glide through canals on a private gondola, shop along the artisan streets of Murano and Burano, and lose yourself in the romance of this one-of-a-kind floating city.

With expert English-speaking guides, private transportation, and customized touches throughout, this is Italy at its most diverse, most luxurious, and most unforgettable—designed just for you by Your Own Italy.

Day by day

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rome

Summary rome
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 1

Welcome to Rome! Introductory Dolce Vita Tour

Step into the enchantment of Rome and see the city through the eyes of a true Roman. This immersive Dolce Vita Tour takes you beyond the usual sightseeing, leading you through timeless streets, iconic fountains, and awe-inspiring monuments. With your expert guide, uncover Bernini’s artistic genius, marvel at the Pantheon’s architectural brilliance, and embrace the traditions that define Roman life.

Stroll through charming piazzas, soak in the vibrant rhythm of daily life, and master the art of la passeggiata, Rome’s beloved evening stroll. Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return, and uncover the hidden meanings behind Bernini’s sculptures and Rome’s legendary fountains.

This isn’t just a tour—it’s an invitation to live la dolce vita, navigate the city like a local, and experience Rome in the most authentic and unforgettable way.


Trevi Fountain at night in Rome, Italy
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Day 2

Walk in the Footsteps of the Ancient Romans

Step into the heartbeat of history and relive the glory and drama of Ancient Rome! With your expert guide, you'll be transported back to the days of emperors, gladiators, and legendary battles as you explore the Colosseum, Roman Forum, and Capitoline Hill.

You'll feel the electrifying energy of the Colosseum, the world’s most famous arena, where gladiators once fought and Roman engineering staged epic spectacles. Tour guide will lead you through the Roman Forum, the political and cultural heart of the empire, where Julius Caesar once stood. You'll end your journey atop Capitoline Hill, with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Eternal City.

This is more than a tour—it’s a journey through time, connecting you to the greatness of Ancient Rome. Don’t just visit—live its history!

the Roman Colosseum at night backed by a deep blue sky
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Day 3

Explore The Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Basilica

Your tour will begin as you step into the heart of artistic genius, rich history, and divine beauty with an expertly guided exploration of the Vatican Museums, Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica. It's an exclusive opportunity to immerse yourself in the masterpieces of the Renaissance, where each work invites you to discover its hidden stories and the timeless beauty.

You'll be guided through the Vatican Museums, home to treasures like Laocoön and His Sons, the breathtaking Raphael Rooms, and the spectacular Gallery of Maps. Then, step into the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo’s iconic frescoes—from the Creation of Adam to The Last Judgment—will leave you in awe.

Your journey will culminate in St. Peter’s Basilica, the world’s grandest church. You'll marvel at Michelangelo’s Pietà, stand beneath Bernini’s awe-inspiring altar canopy, and explore the tombs of Popes, including John Paul II.

This is more than just a visit—it’s a journey through time and human creativity, an experience that will stay with you forever. Don’t just visit the Vatican—experience it!

Michelangelo's Pieta in St. Peter's Basilica
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Savor the Flavors of Trastevere: A Food & Wine Lover’s Roman Dream

Get ready for a mouthwatering adventure in Trastevere, Rome’s most vibrant foodie haven. On this walking tour, your private guide will lead you through lively piazzas and charming alleys to uncover the neighborhood’s best-kept culinary secrets. Indulge in crispy Roman pizza, handcrafted pasta, and iconic street food like suppli, all while sampling world-class wines.

Tucked away just across the Tiber River, Trastevere perfectly blends old-world tradition meets modern energy. Wander through centuries-old streets, discover historic churches, and enjoy bustling trattorias that bring Rome’s culinary culture to life.

This epic food journey is more than a feast—it’s a deep dive into Trastevere’s heart and soul. Wander through centuries-old streets, discover breathtaking piazzas and historic churches, and feel the pulse of the neighborhood, where buzzing trattorias and hidden corners bring Rome’s culinary culture to life.

By tour’s end, you’ll not only have satisfied your appetite but also gained a deeper connection to Roman cuisine and culture. Buon appetito!

a line of wine glasses partially filled with different varietals for a wine tasting
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sorrento

Summary sorrento
Day 4
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Day 4

A Journey Through Time: Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius

Your adventure begins in Rome, where you’ll board a high-speed train to Naples. Upon arrival, your private driver will whisk you to Pompeii, one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites. With your expert private guide leading the way, you’ll explore its remarkably preserved streets, villas, shops, and even ancient graffiti, offering a vivid glimpse into daily life in ancient Rome. Walk in the footsteps of its former residents—whether noble families relaxing in frescoed courtyards or everyday citizens grabbing a bite at a Roman “fast food” stall. Your guide will bring the city’s history to life with fascinating stories of its culture, daily routines, and the catastrophic eruption that froze it in time beneath the looming shadow of Mt. Vesuvius.

Following your guided tour, your driver will take you up the slopes of Mt. Vesuvius for a well-deserved indulgence—a private lunch and wine tasting at a family-owned vineyard set on the volcano’s fertile terrain. Savor local wines born from the mineral-rich volcanic soil, perfectly paired with rustic Neapolitan cuisine, all while enjoying sweeping views of the bay below. With the Your Own Italy Advantage, this seamless, fully guided experience blends history, culture, and culinary delight, creating an unforgettable day in the heart of southern Italy.

Landscape view of the Pompeii archeological site in Italy
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Day 5

Let the Coast Awaken Your Spirit: Positano, Ravello & Amalfi

Relax and soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast as your private driver expertly navigates the winding cliffside roads, allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning scenery. Your first stop is the postcard-perfect village of Positano, where pastel-colored houses cascade down the mountainside toward the sea. With your driver handling the logistics, you’ll have plenty of time to stroll through charming courtyard markets, browse artisan boutiques for linen, handmade sandals, and local jewelry, and cool off with a refreshing granita al limone made from fresh Amalfi lemons. The brilliant blues, vibrant architecture, and gentle Mediterranean breeze create a scene so picturesque, it feels almost surreal.

Next, your driver will take you to Ravello, perched high atop Mount Cerreto, where you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch on a panoramic terrace with spectacular coastal views. Afterward, explore the romantic gardens of Villa Rufolo, famous for hosting Ravello’s world-renowned summer music festival.

Finally, you’ll journey to historic Amalfi, where your driver will drop you off for a visit to the magnificent 11th-century Cathedral of Saint Andrew, a masterpiece of medieval architecture and the heart of the town’s spiritual and cultural life.

With the Your Own Italy Advantage, every moment along the Amalfi Coast is seamlessly guided and curated for beauty, comfort, and unforgettable memories.

aerial view of the Amalfi Coast
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Day 6

Dive into the Waters of Capri: A Private Island Escape

Your day of island enchantment begins as your private guide meets you at your Sorrento hotel and accompanies you to the port. From there, you’ll board a ferry to Capri—one of the world’s most captivating coastal gems. Upon arrival, your guide will escort you to your private boat, where an experienced captain awaits with drinks, towels, and snorkeling gear. Cruise around the island, gliding past its iconic turquoise grottos, where crystal-clear waters shimmer in vibrant hues. Dive into secluded coves, swim through underwater caves, or simply relax on deck as Capri’s breathtaking coastline unfolds around you.

After drying off, your guide will lead you up the winding road to Anacapri, the island’s quieter, picturesque side. Stroll past whitewashed villas draped in bougainvillea, browse artisan shops, and visit Villa San Michele, a charming hilltop retreat with sweeping bay views. For a spectacular perspective, your guide can arrange a funicular ride to Capri’s highest point.

Following a leisurely lunch, enjoy a guided walking tour of Capri town, where you’ll soak in the elegant atmosphere, scenic vistas, and vibrant charm of the island’s famed port. With the Your Own Italy Advantage, every detail is seamlessly handled, turning this sun-soaked escape into an unforgettable adventure.

view from water of marina with shoreline and cliffs in Capri
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venice

Summary venice
Day 7
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Day 9
Day 7

Venice: A Timeless Journey Through Canals, History & Elegance

Step into the enchanting world of Venice, where history, art, and beauty blend in a maze of canals and streets. With your private guide, explore iconic landmarks and end your adventure aboard a private gondola, gliding through scenic waterways.

Start at the magnificent Piazza San Marco, the heart of Venice for centuries. Marvel at St. Mark’s Basilica, with its dazzling Byzantine mosaics, and uncover the legendary relics transported from Alexandria. Admire the Gothic grandeur of the Doge’s Palace, once the seat of Venice’s powerful rulers.

Venture beyond the crowds into hidden piazzas and narrow alleyways, where the true magic of Venice awaits. Stop at La Fenice, the city’s renowned opera house, cross the iconic Rialto Bridge for breathtaking views of the Grand Canal, and explore the lively Rialto Market, where Venetians have traded for centuries.

No visit to Venice is complete without a private gondola ride through its picturesque canals. Glide past graceful palaces, charming bridges, and historic passageways, experiencing the city as nobles once did. Let the gentle lapping of the water and the soft creak of the gondola immerse you in Venice's timeless romance.

From the grandeur of St. Mark’s Square to the hidden corners of the city and your private gondola ride, this Venetian experience offers the perfect blend of history, beauty, and charm. Whether you're an art lover, history enthusiast, or romantic, Venice will captivate you with its elegance and allure.

View of from across the water of San Giorgio Maggiore Island in Venice, Italy
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Day 8

Murano & Burano: A Private Journey Through Venice’s Artisan Islands

Embark on a private boat tour across the enchanting Venetian Lagoon, with your expert guide leading the way to two of Venice’s most iconic islands.

Your first stop is Murano, world-renowned for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, dating back to 1291. As you stroll the island, your guide will take you through a museum dedicated to the art of glass, point out stunning palaces and Veneto-Byzantine churches adorned with 12th-century mosaics, and give you a firsthand look at master glassblowers shaping molten glass into intricate works of art. On clear days, you may also catch a glimpse of San Michele, Venice’s serene island cemetery, rising from the water nearby.

Next, you’ll visit the storybook island of Burano, known for its vibrant, pastel-colored houses and centuries-old lace-making heritage. Once considered the finest lace in Europe, Burano’s craftsmanship remains a proud tradition passed down through generations. Explore charming lace boutiques, browse the Lace Museum, and unwind with an aperitif at a café along the canal, surrounded by the island’s cheerful, colorful façades.

View looking up a canal with anchored boats and colorful buildings in Burano, Italy
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Day 9

Departure – Arrivederci!

As you bid farewell to Italy, you carry with you not just memories of breathtaking landscapes, exquisite cuisine, and timeless history, but also the warmth of newfound friendships. Your driver will ensure a smooth journey to the airport, giving you plenty of time to make your flight. Though your adventure may be coming to an end, Italy salutes you with a heartfelt “Arrivederci!”—until we meet again.

Now that you’ve traveled with Your Own Italy, you’ll always have friends eager to welcome you back whenever you long for the beauty, flavors, and magic of this incredible land once more.

What’s Included

Charming Accommodations

Rome – 3 nights in a boutique hotel or historic apartment.

Sorrento – 3 nights with breathtaking coastal views.
Venice – 2 nights in a charming canal-side retreat.

Expert Guides and Skip-the-Line Access

Enjoy the expertise of English-speaking local guides who bring Italy’s history, art, and culture to life. With skip-the-line tickets, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time exploring.

Immersive Private Tours and Exclusive Excursions

Rome:

    • Private Introductory Walking Tour to orient you with the Eternal City.
    • Private Tour of the Roman Forum and Colosseum
    • Private Tour of The Vatican Museums, the Sistine Chapel, and St. Peter’s Basilica.
    • Savor the Flavors of Trastevere: A Food & Wine Lover’s Roman Dream

Sorrento & Amalfi Coast:

    • Private Tour of Pompeii with lunch and a wine tasting at a villa on Mt. Vesuvius.
    • Private Day Excursion to the enchanting towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello.
    • Private Day Excursion with a guide to Capri, including a 3-hour private boat tour around the island.

Venice:

    • Private Introductory Walking Tour, including a romantic private gondola ride.
    • Private Boat Tour with a guide to:
      • Murano: Witness a live glass-making demonstration.
      • Burano: Explore the vibrant island and its traditional lace-making heritage.


rome
3 nights
sorrento
3 nights
venice
2 nights
Package Prices
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Pricing (per prerson)
Rates depend on group size**
2-3 travelers: $9,100 per person
4-5 travelers: $7,900 per person
6 or more travelers: $6,600 per person
**prices subject to hotel availability
Vacation Airfare
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To book your international flights at preferred rates, contact an UP AND AWAY TRAVEL International Specialist:
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+1 (800) 275 8001
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kyle@upandaway.com
Vacation Insurance
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We highly recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against potential fund forfeiture due to cancellation or unexpected incidents such as injury or loss. We offer travel insurance through our partner, Allianz.
Awards
Tripadvisor Award
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Schedule 30 minutes call with Carmen
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Best trip ever!
We would like to sincerely thank Carmen and her team for the wonderful two week itinerary planned for us in Italy as well as your dedication and constant communication in keeping us always informed with our tour guides and drivers.
Being that this was our first time traveling to Italy, Your Own Italy made our hotel (beautiful hotels) , transportation, and tour reservations for us which made our trip stress free where we could relax and enjoy our time. All the private drivers and AP Tour Guides were wonderful, gracious, very knowledgeable and informative. We really enjoyed them and learned a lot from them.
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