20 Day Nonna's Southern Italian Road Trip with Malta

Welcome to Rome, the starting point of Nonna's Southern Italian Road Trip, a tourinspired 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, 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, leave the bustle of the city behind as you journey into the lesser-explored landscapes of Italy's Abruzzo region. En route, stop in the charming town of Sulmona, renowned for its centuries-old tradition of confectionery. Here, visit the Pelino Confetti Museum, where you'll gain insight into the artistry behind Italy's famous sugared almonds, delicately crafted and deeply woven into local culture. Your visit to the museum is self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Continuing onward, arrive at the Costa dei Trabocchi, a striking stretch of Adriatic coastline dotted with traditional wooden fishing structures known as trabocchi, perched dramatically over the sea. This evening, enjoy a memorable aperitif and dinner set within one of these historic trabocchi (additional beverages at own cost). Suspended above the water, this unique setting offers an authentic and atmospheric dining experience, where local flavours are complemented by sweeping coastal views. Inspiring Highlights Pelino Confetti Museum Trabocco Dinner Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours

After breakfast, continue your journey south, travelling deeper into the sun-drenched landscapes of Puglia, where coastal elegance meets distinctive architectural charm. En route, stop in the seaside town of Trani, a hidden gem along the Adriatic coast. Known for its refined atmosphere and historic harbour, Trani invites a gentle exploration of its waterfront, where fishing boats and cafés line the promenade. The town's pale stone cathedral, set dramatically by the sea, offers a striking backdrop and a sense of timeless tranquillity. After time to explore, continue onward to Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town famed for its unique trulli, whitewashed stone houses topped with conical roofs. As you arrive, the landscape transforms into a storybook setting, where these distinctive dwellings cluster along winding streets, creating one of Italy's most memorable scenes. Settle into your accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure, soaking up the charm of this truly unique destination. Inspiring Highlights Trani Harbour Trulli Houses Alberobello Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today continues your exploration of Puglia's distinctive landscapes, where whitewashed towns, ancient traditions, and rich flavours define the region's enduring appeal. After breakfast, depart for a deeper discovery of Alberobello, where the fairytale-like trulli create a truly unique architectural landscape. Take time to wander through its winding lanes, where these iconic stone dwellings reveal the history and craftsmanship of the region. From here, continue to the elegant hilltop town of Ostuni, often referred to as the “White City.” Perched above the Adriatic, its labyrinth of narrow streets and gleaming white buildings offers sweeping views and a distinctly Mediterranean atmosphere. As you explore, the town's charm unfolds through hidden corners, lively piazzas, and sunlit alleyways. During the day, enjoy a visit to a local oil mill, where you'll experience an olive oil tasting, an essential introduction to one of Puglia's most celebrated products. Discover the traditions behind its production and savour the rich, authentic flavours that define the region's cuisine. In the afternoon, continue your journey to Lecce, a city renowned for its ornate Baroque architecture and vibrant southern Italian spirit. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Ostuni Visit Olive Oil Tasting Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Today invites a deeper exploration of Puglia's cultural richness, where Baroque artistry meets the coastal beauty of the Adriatic. Following breakfast, begin in Lecce, often referred to as the “Florence of the South,” where ornate façades and honey-coloured stone define the city's unmistakable character. Accompanied by your Local Guide, enjoy a walking tour through its historic centre. As you wander through elegant piazzas and intricate streets, discover the craftsmanship and stories behind Lecce's remarkable Baroque architecture.Next, visit a traditional ceramics and pottery workshop, offering insight into one of the region's most cherished artisanal traditions. Observe the techniques passed down through generations and gain a deeper appreciation for the creativity that shapes local culture. This afternoon, continue to the coastal town of Otranto, where history and sea views combine in a setting of understated beauty. Stroll through its charming old town, where narrow lanes open onto glimpses of the Adriatic, and a relaxed pace invites you to linger. Return to Lecce, with the remainder of the day at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Ceramics and Pottery Workshop Otranto Visit Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 1.5 hours.

After breakfast, depart Lecce, travelling inland toward one of Italy's most extraordinary and atmospheric destinations. Matera, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed city famed for its ancient cave dwellings, known as the Sassi, which are carved directly into the limestone cliffs. With your Local Guide, embark on a walking tour through this remarkable landscape. As you navigate its winding pathways, staircases, and rock-hewn spaces, uncover the history of a city that has evolved over thousands of years, where past and present exist in striking harmony. Following your guided exploration, take time to absorb the unique atmosphere of Matera at your own pace, as the soft light of the afternoon enhances the textures and tones of this unforgettable setting. This evening, enjoy a three-course dinner at a local restaurant (beverages at own cost), offering a taste of regional cuisine in an equally evocative environment. Inspiring Highlights UNESCO World Heritage Site - Matera Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

Today's journey reveals one of southern Italy's most distinctive cultural landscapes, where dramatic mountain scenery meets deep-rooted traditions. After breakfast, depart Matera and travel toward Calabria, stopping in the remarkable hilltop village of Civita. Perched above the Raganello Gorge, this unique settlement is part of the Arbëreshë community, descendants of Albanian settlers who have preserved their language, customs, and identity for centuries. Accompanied by your Local Guide, enjoy a walking tour through Civita and the surrounding area, including the striking Ponte del Diavolo (Devil's Bridge), allowing you to fully appreciate the dramatic natural setting.During your time here, immerse yourself in local traditions with a three-course Arbëreshë lunch at a local restaurant. The experience is enriched by a demonstration of dromesat arbëresh, a traditional handmade pasta that reflects the region's unique cultural heritage. Continue with a visit to a local farm, where you'll enjoy a tasting of regional wines alongside a selection of local products, an authentic expression of Calabria's rich agricultural traditions. After lunch, continue to the Riviera dei Cedri, where the coastline unfolds in a series of scenic views along the Tyrrhenian Sea. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Arbëreshë Lunch Devils Bridge Wine Tasting Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Wake to the relaxed rhythm of the Tyrrhenian coast, where the Riviera dei Cedri offers a blend of coastal beauty, fragrant landscapes, and understated charm. The morning is yours to enjoy at leisure. Unwind by the sea, stroll through a coastal village, or simply soak in the tranquil surroundings. For those keen to connect with the region's culinary traditions, consider joining an optional cooking class to discover the local flavours and time-honoured recipes of Calabria. In the afternoon, embark on a half day excursion along this picturesque stretch of coastline. As you travel, take in sweeping sea views, rugged cliffs, and small seaside towns that reflect the authentic character of the region. Known for its citrus groves — particularly the prized cedro — the Riviera dei Cedri is rich in both natural beauty and local tradition. Inspiring Highlights Riviera dei Cedri Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

Today's journey blends rich culinary tradition with ancient history, as you travel along the Campania coastline toward Salerno. After breakfast, depart the Riviera dei Cedri with your first stop at a local buffalo farm. Here, enjoy an immersive experience centred around one of the region's most celebrated products—buffalo mozzarella. Learn about the production process before indulging in a tasting that highlights the freshness and distinctive flavour of this iconic delicacy. Continue to the charming coastal town of Agropoli, where you'll have time to pause for lunch and soak in the relaxed seaside atmosphere, framed by views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. In the afternoon, arrive at the archaeological site of Paestum, one of Italy's most impressive ancient Greek settlements. Accompanied by your Local Guide, enjoy a walking tour through this remarkable site. With included entrance to the excavation area, explore the exceptionally well-preserved temples and ruins, gaining insight into a civilisation that dates back over two millennia. Following your visit, continue to Salerno. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Buffalo Mozzarella Farm Paestum Archaeological Site Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today is dedicated to the breathtaking beauty of the Amalfi Coast, where dramatic cliffs, pastel-hued villages, and the shimmering Mediterranean create one of Italy's most iconic landscapes. After breakfast, begin your journey along the coast, combining land and sea for a truly immersive experience. Travelling by ferry, take in the spectacular scenery from the water—an ever-changing panorama of rugged coastline, hidden coves, and cascading terraces. From Amalfi, embark on a coastal boat tour, offering a closer perspective of this extraordinary region. Cruise along the shoreline as you make your way to Positano and back, passing colourful villages that cling to the cliffs and capturing unforgettable views along the way. After lunch, your exploration continues with a boat ride from Amalfi to Maiori, revealing another side of the coastline, where wide beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere contrast beautifully with the dramatic vertical landscapes of Positano. Return to Salerno in the afternoon, with the evening at leisure to unwind or enjoy the coastal ambiance. Inspiring Highlights Amalfi Coast Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

Today's journey brings together ancient history and medieval heritage, as you make your way back to Rome. After breakfast, depart Salerno, travelling first to the extraordinary archaeological site of Pompeii. Accompanied by your Local Guide, enjoy a walking tour through this remarkably preserved ancient city. With included admission to the Pompeii archaeological park, step back in time as you explore streets, homes, and public spaces frozen in the moment of Mount Vesuvius' eruption, offering a powerful glimpse into daily life in the Roman world. Following your visit, continue north toward the historic town of Anagni, often referred to as the “City of Popes.” Here, enjoy admission to the Villa Papale, an important site reflecting the town's significant religious and political past. Later, arrive in Rome and check into your hotel, with time to refresh before your final evening.Tonight, gather for a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant (beverages at own cost), celebrating the journey and the shared experiences along the way. Inspiring Highlights Pompeii Villa Papale Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours.

After breakfast, check out of your hotel in Rome as your Italian road trip comes to a close and the Maltese chapter of your journey begins. Make your own way to the airport in good time for your flight across the Mediterranean to Malta. On arrival at Malta International Airport, we are met by our licensed local guide for the Malta tour. From the airport we transfer to Ċirkewwa to board the ferry across to the island of Gozo, with its quiet villages, honey-coloured stone and open countryside. A short drive from the ferry brings us to our hotel above Mgħarr Harbour.The remainder of the day is at leisure to settle in. You may wish to relax on the hotel terrace and take in the views across the Gozo channel, or wander down to the harbour and find a local spot for dinner this evening. Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 8 hours. Please note - today you will say goodbye to your Italian tour leader, and on arrival in Malta your group will be met by a licensed local guide, who will meet and greet you, coordinate your activities and be reachable to assist you as needed throughout the Malta portion of your tour. Your flight will be unescorted, however assistance is provided on either end to ensure that your journey is trouble free. Your flight will be unescorted. Your included flight allows one checked bag and one carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Shared arrival airport transfers in Malta are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at Malta International Airport and transferred to your hotel on Gozo with other members of the group, including the ferry crossing between Malta and Gozo. 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 transfer can be confirmed. If you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements, or booked pre-accommodation through Inspiring Vacations, airport transfers will not be included.

We begin our exploration of Gozo today. We drive to Xagħra, where our first stop is the Dream of Horses Farm, a multi-purpose Equestrian farm where we will have a tour and enjoy lunch. Afterwards we will stop at Sannat for some photographs before continuing to a local venue for a wine tasting on the veranda, with a walk through the vineyard. The venue is a tasting venue rather than a working winery. Return to the hotel in the early afternoon, with the rest of the day at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Dream of Horses farm visit Sannat photo stop Wine tasting experience Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.

After breakfast we begin the day at the salt pans at Qbajjar, where sea water has been turned into geometric pans along the coast for generations. We continue to the Basilica of Ta' Pinu, a national shrine near the village of Għarb. From there we visit Dwejra, with its Fungus Rock and inland sea setting, before heading to the Citadella in Victoria, the island's former capital, where there is some free time to wander. You have some time to relax at your hotel before being taken to a local restaurant for dinner this evening. Inspiring Highlights Qbajjar salt pans Ta' Pinu Basilica Dwejra and Fungus Rock The Citadella, Victoria

We say addiju (farewell) to the island of Gozo as we are transferred back to the island of Malta. On the way to our hotel in Malta, we make a brief stop at Popeye Village to capture some memorable photos. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or explore the local area. Inspiring Highlights Popeye Village photo stop Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.

After breakfast enjoy a guided tour of Valletta, Malta's capital. We visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens and St John's Co-Cathedral, then take in The Malta Experience, a short audiovisual presentation on the island's history at the Sacra Infermeria. Lunch is served at a restaurant in the heart of the city. You then have free time to explore Valletta on foot at your own pace. Return to the hotel in the early evening for time at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Upper Barrakka Gardens St John's Co-Cathedral The Malta Experience audiovisual show Valletta guided walking tour

We continue our exploration of Malta after breakfast, when we visit the Mosta Rotunda. Modelled on the Pantheon in Rome, it features the third-largest unsupported dome in the world. The Maltese miracle happened here, when a German aerial bomb pierced the dome during World War II and fell into the church during mass, but did not explode. We then enjoy a visit to Dingli cliffs, followed by the Buskett Gardens whose history goes back to pre-Christian times where Pagan rituals would take place. Our day is highlighted by a visit to Mdina, whose striking fortified hilltop location will take your breath away. The city was founded by the ancient trading civilisation known as the Phoenicians and was later taken over by the Romans. Mdina was the capital of Malta throughout the Middle Ages, when some magnificent buildings were built. Lunch is included before a guided walking tour. The day finishes with a cheese making and tasting experience. We return to the hotel this evening, with the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Mosta Rotunda Dingli Cliffs photo stop Buskett Gardens Mdina walking tour Cheese making and tasting experience

After breakfast, we visit one of the most important archeological sites in the region, Hagar Qim. A megalithic temple complex, dating back to approximately 3600-3200 BC, these are among the most ancient religious sites on Earth. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the complex is thought to be older than sites in Mesopotamia, Egypt and Greece. Afterwards, we visit the nearby Tal-Hamrija coastal tower, built in the 17th century. We then drive through Wied iż-Żurrieq to a viewpoint over the Blue Grotto, a set of sea caves on the south coast, where photographs can be taken from the lookout, you will have free time and the option (weather permitting, additional charges apply) for a Blue Grotto boat trip. Return to your hotel in the afternoon. This evening you are collected from your hotel for a traditional folklore show with dinner at a local restaurant. Inspiring Highlights Ħaġar Qim temples Tal-Ħamrija Tower Blue Grotto photo stop Traditional folklore show with dinner

We venture out for a final day of touring with a tour fondly known as the ‘three cities tour': Vittoriosa, Senglea and Marsaxlokk. The tour itself is of three neighbouring areas to the south of Valletta's old town, and offers travellers a more off-the-beaten-track experience. One of the first settlements in the modern-day Grand Harbour, settlers in Valletta used the many harbour inlets from Phoenician times, resulting in locals identifying the three cities as the cradle of Maltese history. The area is known also for being the original settlement for Knights of St. John in the 16th century. We start visiting Vittoriosa and Senglea by foot and continue to the fishing village of Marsaxlokk, known for its brightly painted luzzu boats, where lunch is included. There is time to take in the harbour or take a relaxing boat trip (weather permitting, additional charges apply) before returning to your hotel. We return to the hotel in the late afternoon, with the evening at leisure. Inspiring Highlights Vittoriosa and Senglea walking tour Marsaxlokk fishing village

Thank you for travelling with Inspiring Vacations. We hope you had a memorable experience. Depending on your flight details you have some time at leisure before it is time to head to the airport for your flight back home. Special Information Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier departure experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.