18 Day Nonna's Northern Italian Road Trip with Sardinia

Welcome to Rome, the starting point of Nonna's Northern Italian Road Trip, a tour inspired by Nonna's tales and travels. Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel to get settled in.Depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day is yours to settle in and start soaking up the atmosphere of the Eternal City. Perhaps take a gentle stroll through the surrounding neighbourhood, pause for your first espresso at a local café, or simply unwind after your journey.As evening falls, meet your Tour Leader and fellow travellers for your welcome meeting before enjoying an evening at leisure exploring the streets of Rome. Special Information Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal may offer the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, or booked pre-accomodation through Inspiring Vacations, airport transfers will not be included.

After breakfast the road trip begins. Journey into the heart of the Tuscan countryside, where rolling hills, vineyards, and timeless hilltop towns define one of Italy's most iconic landscapes. Departing Rome, travel north through picturesque scenery, watching as the urban energy gives way to cypress-lined roads and golden fields. Your first stop is the enchanting town of Montepulciano, perched high above the Val d'Orcia. Here, you'll have time to wander its narrow cobblestone streets, admire Renaissance architecture, and soak in sweeping views across the surrounding countryside. Continuing deeper into the Tuscan region, an area celebrated for its world-class wines and rustic charm. Settle in at a local winery, where a relaxed and authentic lunch awaits. Begin with a traditional aperitivo before enjoying a selection of regional specialities, thoughtfully paired with local wines. An immersive introduction to Tuscany's rich culinary heritage. After lunch, take time to savour the tranquil vineyard setting before continuing your journey through this captivating region before arriving at your Tuscan estate for the evening. Inspiring Highlights Winery Visit and Lunch Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast and a relaxed morning soaking up the beautiful Tuscan countryside, continue your journey through more captivating landscapes, where each hilltop town reveals its own distinct character and culinary tradition. First stop is the beautifully preserved village of Pienza, a UNESCO-listed gem renowned for its harmonious Renaissance design and sweeping views over the Val d'Orcia. As you explore its charming streets and artisan boutiques, enjoy a tasting of the region's celebrated pecorino cheese, an essential expression of Pienza's rich gastronomic heritage. From here, continue to the historic city of Siena, a place steeped in medieval tradition and timeless elegance. Wander through its atmospheric streets and discover the magnificent Piazza del Campo, one of Italy's most iconic squares, famed for its unique shell shape and the centuries-old Palio horse race. The city's Gothic architecture and enduring sense of history create an unforgettable sense of place. Later in the day, depart Siena and travel onward to Florence, the cradle of the Renaissance. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure, perhaps taking your first stroll through Florence's storied streets or indulging in a relaxed dinner in this cultural capital. Inspiring Highlights UNESCO Village Pienza Pecorino Cheese Tasting Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast, meet your Local Guide for a two-hour walking tour through the heart of the city. As you explore on foot, uncover Florence's most iconic landmarks and hidden corners, gaining insight into the stories, artistry, and vision that shaped this extraordinary cultural capital. From grand piazzas to elegant streets, each step reveals layers of history, an immersive introduction that brings the city vividly to life. Your guide will then lead you into one of Florence's most lively food markets for an authentic glimpse into local life and culinary traditions. Wander through vibrant stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialties, while learning the stories that make this place such an important part of Florentine culture. The experience concludes with a tasting at a market stall or nearby spot, typically a traditional lampredotto sandwich, a classic Florentine street food of slow-cooked beef served in crusty bread with green sauce or spicy oil, paired with a glass of local wine. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to continue exploring Florence's world-class museums and galleries, browse artisan boutiques, or simply relax at a café and take in the rhythm of local life. Alternatively, consider joining one of the many optional experiences available, offering deeper insight into the region's rich culture and traditions.

Today's journey blends Tuscany's timeless charm with the coastal beauty of the Italian Riviera, as you travel from Florence toward the Ligurian coast. After breakfast say farewell to Florence. Your first stop is the delightful town of Lucca, renowned for its well-preserved Renaissance walls and relaxed, authentic atmosphere. Within its historic centre, discover quiet piazzas, elegant churches, and tree-lined streets that invite unhurried exploration. Continue onward to Pisa, home to one of Italy's most recognisable landmarks. Here, you'll have time to visit the famed Piazza dei Miracoli and admire the iconic Leaning Tower, alongside the cathedral and baptistery, an extraordinary ensemble of Romanesque architecture. In the afternoon, leave Tuscany behind as your journey continues toward the Riviera del Levante. As the landscape shifts, rolling hills give way to dramatic coastal scenery, with glimpses of the Ligurian Sea accompanying your arrival. Upon reaching the Riviera, settle into your hotel before rejoining the group. This evening, your guide will provide a briefing for tomorrow's visit to the Cinque Terre, outlining the day's logistics, transport arrangements, and what to expect while exploring these iconic coastal villages. It's a valuable opportunity to prepare for the experience ahead and ensure you make the most of your time in this remarkable region. Following the briefing, enjoy a group dinner at a local seaside restaurant. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Leaning Tower of Pisa Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

Today is dedicated to discovering the breathtaking beauty of the Cinque Terre, a collection of colourful villages perched dramatically along the Ligurian coastline. You are free to shape the day as you wish, whether independently discovering each village at leisure, pausing for seaside lunches and scenic walks, or choosing to join your Tour Leader for a more structured exploration. The Tour Leader will provide all the necessary information to help you navigate between the villages, highlight key points of interest, and suggest routes and timings for a smooth and enjoyable experience. After a hearty breakfast, meet in the hotel lobby before walking to the station with your Tour Leader, who will explain the local train system, tickets, and validation procedures. From here, you'll travel by regional train from Sestri Levante to Monterosso, enjoying a scenic journey that traces the edge of the sea, with glimpses of cliffs, terraced vineyards, and pastel-hued towns clinging to the rugged shoreline. On arrival in Monterosso, enjoy an orientation walk to Piazza Garibaldi before free time to soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere. From here, the day unfolds at your own rhythm. You may choose to independently discover each village at leisure, pausing for scenic walks, seaside lunches, and hidden corners along the coast, or join your Tour Leader for a more structured exploration. For those joining the Tour Leader, you will continue to Vernazza by boat (weather permitting). On arrival, enjoy free time to explore and have lunch at leisure. For those who wish, there may also be the opportunity to join the Tour Leader on an optional hike to a panoramic viewpoint (subject to weather and trail conditions). After lunch, travel by train to Riomaggiore, where more free time invites you to wander at leisure and take in the distinctive charm of this much-loved village. Late afternoon, return by train to Sestri Levante, either at your own pace or with the Tour Leader. The evening is then at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Cinque Terre Special Information Boat travel between villages is weather permitting. If sea conditions do not allow, travel will be by train instead. Train timing to Monterosso will be reconfirmed locally by your Tour Leader. Suggested Optional Extension (No Tour Leader) You may wish to continue independently with a self guided walk along the Via dell'Amore, a scenic, easy cliffside path linking Riomaggiore and Manarola, offering some of the most iconic coastal views in Cinque Terre. Recently reopened after restoration, access is ticketed (own cost) and controlled via timed reservations and operates one-way from Riomaggiore to Manarola. You may also wish to remain for sunset and dinner before making your own way back to Sestri Levente.

Enjoy breakfast before you depart the Ligurian coast this morning and journey inland, travelling through the evolving landscapes of northern Italy toward the elegant city of Verona. En route, stop in Parma, a region synonymous with Italy's finest culinary traditions. Here, you'll visit a local ham producer to gain insight into the time-honoured techniques behind the creation of Parma's world-famous prosciutto. Learn about the meticulous curing process before enjoying a tasting of this celebrated delicacy, rich in flavour and deeply rooted in regional heritage. Your experience continues with admission to the Prosciutto Museum, where the story of Parma's iconic product is brought to life through engaging exhibits that trace its history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance. After your visit, continue onward to the Verona area. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Perhaps with a relaxed dinner or a first glimpse of this romantic and historic city. Inspiring Highlights Prosciutto Tasting Prosciutto Museum Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today offers a perfect balance of lakeside serenity and timeless romance, as you explore the beauty of Lake Garda before returning to Verona. After breakfast, depart by coach for the southern shores of Lake Garda, Italy's largest and most enchanting lake. Framed by gentle hills, vineyards, and charming villages, this region is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning natural scenery. Arrive in Bardolino, a charming lakeside town framed by vineyards and colourful facades. From here, embark on a scenic boat ride across the lake to Sirmione, gliding over crystal-clear waters with views of picturesque villages and the surrounding hills—a serene and memorable way to experience Italy's largest lake. After returning to Bardolino by boat, meet the coach to return to Verona, where the evening unveils the city's romantic charm. Meet your Local Guide for a two-hour walking tour through the historic centre. As you stroll through atmospheric streets and lively piazzas, discover the stories and landmarks that define this elegant city, long associated with art, history, and timeless love. After the tour, enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Lake Garda Boat Ride Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

After breakfast, depart by coach for Venice. Arriving at Tronchetto, where you'll board a private taxi boat for a memorable approach into the city. Glide across the lagoon toward St Mark's Square, taking in the unique perspective of Venice's waterways, where palaces and churches rise directly from the water's edge. On arrival, meet your local licensed guide for a private walking tour through the historic centre. As you wander through narrow calli and across elegant bridges, uncover the stories behind Venice's most celebrated landmarks and hidden corners. From the grandeur of St Mark's Square to the intricate network of canals, the city reveals itself as a masterpiece of art, history, and maritime power. Following the walking tour, experience Venice like a local on a guided Bacaro tour. Step into traditional bacari, the small Venetian bars dating back to the 16th century where merchants and artisans once gathered over a glass of wine and cicchetti, the city's famous small bites. Wander through hidden canals and quiet squares, taste authentic Venetian dishes, and gain a deeper insight into the culinary and cultural traditions that have shaped the city for centuries. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. You may wish to explore further at your own pace, relax along the canals, or perhaps join an optional experience to discover another facet of this extraordinary city. Later in the afternoon, return by taxi boat to Tronchetto to continue your journey south to Ravenna. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights St Mark's Square Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4.5 hours.

After breakfast, explore the artistic and historical treasures of Ravenna, a city renowned for its extraordinary mosaics and rich Byzantine heritage. Accompanied by your Local Guide, embark on a walking tour through the city's historic centre. Discover the intricate beauty and cultural significance of Ravenna's most celebrated landmarks, including the Basilica of San Vitale and the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia. With included admission, step inside these remarkable monuments and admire their luminous mosaics, masterpieces that have endured for centuries and offer a glimpse into the city's imperial past. Following your visit, continue your journey toward Assisi, set against the gentle slopes of Umbria. On arrival, meet your Local Guide for a walking tour of this deeply spiritual town. Wander through its peaceful streets and discover the legacy of Saint Francis, whose presence continues to shape the atmosphere of Assisi. Your visit includes admission to the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, a site of profound religious and artistic importance, where frescoes and sacred spaces tell the story of the saint's life and enduring influence. After the tour, take a moment to absorb the tranquil surroundings before settling into your accommodation. Inspiring Highlights Basilica of San Vitale Mausoleum of Galla Placidia Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

After breakfast, depart Assisi and journey through the verdant landscapes of Umbria toward one of Italy's most spectacular natural wonders. Arrive at the Marmore Waterfalls, a breathtaking cascade created by the ancient Romans and still considered one of the tallest man-made waterfalls in the world. With included admission to the park, take time to explore the walking paths and viewpoints, where the powerful rush of water and surrounding greenery create a striking and immersive experience. After your visit, continue onward to Rome, where your journey comes full circle. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy some time to refresh before the evening's farewell celebration. Tonight, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant (beverages at own cost). Reflect on the experiences shared, the landscapes discovered, and the memories created over the course of your journey, as you enjoy a final evening immersed in Italian cuisine and atmosphere. Inspiring Highlights Marmore Waterfalls Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

After breakfast, your Northern Italy adventure gives way to the island of Sardinia. Make your way to the airport for your flight across to Cagliari, the lively capital on Sardinia's southern coast. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours. Tonight is at your leisure, so settle in and start soaking up the relaxed island atmosphere at your own pace. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. On your departure from Rome you will say goodbye to your tour guide, and your group will be met by a local guide in Cagliari, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities in town and be reachable to assist you as needed. Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

After breakfast, meet your local guide for a walking tour through Cagliari's historic districts of Castello, Stampace and Marina. Along the way you will see the Bastion of Saint Remy, the Elephant Tower and the Cathedral of Santa Maria, each telling part of the city's long story.You will return to the hotel with the afternoon at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. You might wander down to Poetto Beach for a relaxed stroll along the sand, browse the shops and cafes around the Marina district, or simply find a sunny piazza to enjoy a coffee and watch island life go by. Tonight is at your leisure to seek out a local restaurant for dinner. Inspiring Highlights Cagliari - Guided walking tour

After breakfast, the road trip continues north into Barbagia, one of Sardinia's most authentic regions. Your first stop is Nuoro, a town known for its museums and craft traditions, where you will have time to explore before heading up into the mountains. Here you will sit down to a traditional lunch with local shepherds, surrounded by the unspoiled nature of Barbagia. Enjoy a spread of Sardinian dishes with drinks included, in a setting that feels a world away from the everyday. After lunch, continue to Orgosolo, a village famous for its striking murals and strong pastoral traditions. From here you will travel on to Alghero, your home for the next two nights. Inspiring Highlights Nuoro - Town visit Barbagia - Traditional lunch with shepherds Orgosolo - Mural village visit Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 5 hours.

This morning after breakfast, set out on a walking tour through Alghero's old town, where Catalan roots and handsome architecture give the city a character all its own. At lunch, enjoy a gastronomic experience on a local estate, tasting your way through regional Sardinian cuisine with drinks included. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Nuragic site of Palmavera to see its Bronze Age remains, then head to Capo Caccia for sweeping views out over the cliffs and sea. You will return to Alghero with time at your own pace. Tonight is at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Alghero - Guided walking tour Palmavera - Nuragic complex visit Capo Caccia - Cliff viewpoint

After breakfast, travel east across the island. Your first stop is Castelsardo, a hilltop coastal town looking out over the Costa Paradiso, where you can explore the medieval centre and take in the view. From here, continue inland to Tempio Pausania, a peaceful town rich in granite buildings and baroque churches. Here you will enjoy a traditional Sardinian lunch featuring local specialties with drinks included, followed by a tour of the town. Later, continue your journey to Olbia, a lively port town known for its beaches and its links to the Costa Smeralda, where you will spend your final two nights. Inspiring Highlights Castelsardo - Medieval town visit Tempio Pausania - Town tour Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

This morning after breakfast, head out to explore the Costa Smeralda, calling in at Porto Rotondo and the glamorous Porto Cervo with free time to wander these pretty coastal towns at your own pace. Around the middle of the day you will return to Olbia, where the rest of the day is yours. You might stroll through the streets of Olbia, relax by the hotel, or spend some time down by the beach. It is a day to slow down and enjoy the island on your own terms. Tonight is at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Costa Smeralda - Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo visit

Your Sardinian journey comes to a close today. After breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport for your onward journey. Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Special Information Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.