Jun 22, 2024 - Jun 29, 2024
Seven days in Italy : Rome and Amalfi coast
Flight To Rome Jun 21
Flight Details
Friday, June 21st, 2024
AA 718
PHL
Philadelphia
6:30 PM
FCO
Rome
9:00 AM
Flight Arrives June 22nd, 2024*
Seat: 13A, 13B, 13C
Class: Economy (B)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Land In Rome Jun 22
Departure
Land In Rome
- Taxi To Your Hotel
Private Transfer To Rome Termini Train Station
- High Speed Train To Naples
Upon Arrivals Catch A Taxi To Your Hotel
Barocco Rome Guided Walking Tour - 1.5 hours central European summer time
Visit Rome city center with an expert guide.
Start your tour in Piazza Navona, arguably the most iconic square in Rome. Admire the four rivers fountains from Gian Luigi Bernini, and the Sant'Agnese church from the Borromini, just in front.
Lose yourself in the narrow streets between Piazza Navona and the Tiber and if the weather is good sip a Café in Piazza del Fico.
Get back to Piazza Navona and cross Corso Vittorio Emanuele towards Campo dei Fiori, where you will find the lively market and one of the best places to taste the Roman "whit pizza" (pizza bianca), in the antico Forno Campo de Fiori. Have a quick look at Piazza Farnese with the impressive Farnese Palace, then continue on via dei Giubbonari to Largo Argentina.
From there, get to the Pantheon, that you can visit without purchasing any ticket (it's a church). Close by San Luigi dei Francesi church and the Sant'Agostino basilica host 3 wonderful paintings by Caravaggio.
Time to taste one of the best Gelato of Rome, so walk towards Giolitti icemaker and café. You can't get it wrong, just folow the queue!
From Giolitti walk towards Fontana di Trevi, where you can throw your coin to make sure you'll be back one day, but before don't forget to stop to visit Sant’Ignazio Church and to admire the amazing trompe l’oeuil painted on the roof.
Continue to the Spanish steps, admire the "barcaccia" fountain from Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and continue walking towards Piazza del Popolo where you will find Santa Maria del Popolo church (quoted in Dan Brown’s “Angels and Demons”) which hosts two amazing paintings from caravaggio and Pinturicchio.
Walk up to the Pincio gardens (wonderful view on Rome) and keep on walking towards Trinità dei Monti. This is Villa Borghese, one of the most beautiful Roman parks, and a fantastic place for your morning jogging.
Continue to Trinità dei Monti where you will have the Spanish Steps at your feet and a wonderful view of Rome.
From the Spanish steps, a 15 minutes walk will get you to the iconic Fontana di Trevi. Don't forget to throw a coin in the fountain to make sure you'll come back to Rome!
Note: your guide may decide to change the order of the visit
Dinner in Piazza Farnese Ar Galletto (suggested)
Ar Galletto serves traditional Roman dishes in an elegant setting, in one of the most beautiful squares in Rome, Piazza Farnese. It's walking distance from your hotel.
Reserve in advance and ask for a table outside.
Ristorante Ar Galleto
Sleep at Hotel della Concilliazione
Room / Bed Type
Triple room, breakfast included
The Hotel della Conciliazione is in “Borgo Pio”, one of the oldest and most characteristic districts in Rome. This district is a beautiful pedestrian zone with an extraordinary atmosphere, just a short walk from St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican.
Our completely renovated hotel offers its guests 67 design rooms, all elegantly furnished and equipped with all the creature comforts necessary to ensure a pleasant stay in the Eternal City.
Thanks to its exclusive location, our guests can walk through the city’s picturesque streets to reach Rome’s most beautiful attractions, such as: Castel Sant’Angelo, the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon.
Furthermore, the terminus for the number 40 Express bus and the Ottaviano - San Pietro metro station (Line A) are just a few minutes away from the Hotel della Conciliazione, so Termini train station and other points of interest in Rome are easy to reach.
Staying at the Hotel della Conciliazione is a unique and authentic way to experience Rome.
HOTEL DELLA CONCILIAZIONE
St. Peter Cathedral + Shopping Jun 23
Visit St Peter basilica at leisure
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the holiest temples for Christendom and one of the largest churches in the world. Besides, it's where the Pope presides many liturgies all year round.
The construction of the new basilica began in 1506 when the old basilica had been torn down and was finished in 1626. It was consecrated on 18 November 1626.
Several renowned architects designed the temple, highlighting the works of Bramante, Michelangelo, and Carlo Maderno.
The basilica was called St Peter’s after one of Jesus’s twelve disciples known as Saint Peter, who became one of the founders of the Catholic Church and was executed in Rome and buried where the Basilica now stands.
St Peter’s Basilica can accommodate 20,000 people. It measures 190 m (624 ft) long and the central nave is 46 m (150 ft) tall. The dome stands 136 m (447ft) tall.
Inside, visitors will find extremely impressive pieces of art, including St. Peter’s Baldachin, a large bronze baldachin designed by Bernini, The Pietà, a sculpture by Michelangelo, and the statue of St Peter on his throne. St Peter has his right foot worn down due to the touches of the devoted.
Lunch at Isidoro (optional)
If you wish, Osteria Isidoro prepares traditional Roman dishes just a few steps from San Clemente.
Hostaria da Isidoro al Colosseo | Ristorante Italiano
Afternoon at leisure for the shopping
Rome is a city known for its rich history, culture, and vibrant atmosphere. The city center offers numerous shopping streets and areas where you can find a variety of shops, boutiques, and markets. Here are some of the best shopping streets and places in Rome city center:
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Via del Corso: This is one of Rome's main shopping streets, stretching from Piazza del Popolo to Piazza Venezia. It features a mix of international brands, Italian designers, and department stores. You'll find clothing, shoes, accessories, and more.
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Via Condotti: Located near the Spanish Steps, Via Condotti is famous for its luxury boutiques and high-end designer stores, including brands like Gucci, Prada, and Bulgari.
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Via Borgognona: Parallel to Via Condotti, Via Borgognona offers an array of luxury fashion and accessory boutiques, making it a great spot for high-end shopping.
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Via Frattina: This charming street is another hub for upscale shopping, featuring boutique shops with Italian fashion and accessories. It's situated near the Spanish Steps.
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Campo de' Fiori: This lively square hosts a daily market with fresh produce, flowers, and other local products. It's a great place to explore and buy fresh ingredients, as well as unique souvenirs.
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Piazza di Spagna: The Spanish Steps area is known for its designer boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops. It's a fashionable and picturesque part of the city.
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Via del Babuino: Connecting Piazza del Popolo with Piazza di Spagna, this street offers a mix of art galleries, antique shops, and fashion boutiques.
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Galleria Alberto Sordi: This historic shopping gallery near the Pantheon houses a variety of shops, including fashion, beauty, and homeware stores. It's a beautiful space to explore.
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Mercato Monti: This indoor market near the Colosseum is perfect for discovering unique vintage clothing, accessories, and handmade crafts from local artisans.
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Via del Governo Vecchio: Near Piazza Navona, this charming street is lined with vintage boutiques, second-hand shops, and artisan stores, offering a different shopping experience.
Discover 20 centuries of history in Castel Sant'Angelo (optional)
Castel Sant'Angelo is one of the town’s most famous landmarks (and a kid's favorite!)
Castel Sant’Angelo appearance today is the result of a long series of transformations. Unfortunately, they have left nearly no traces of the “Hadrianeum”, the mausoleum that Emperor Hadrian built for himself in the second century AD.
Used as a defensive bastion against barbarians during Emperor Aurelian reign, by the Middle Ages Castel Sant’Angelo had been transformed into a practically unassailable fortress, hosting an infamous prison.
The popes converted the structure into a castle and also commissioned the construction of a covered fortified corridor connected to the Vatican Palaces (il “passetto”). It was to be used in the event of danger as an extreme escape route.
This secret corridor inspired many dark novels, including Dan Browns’ “Angels and Demons”.
Dinner in the old Jewish Ghetto (optional)
Rome used to have a relatively large Jewish Ghetto, and the Jewish community is still very present in the area. It's a very typical neighbourhood where you can taste one of the best original Roman cuisine. Don't miss the Carciofi alla Giudia "Jewish style artichokes".
The Giardino Romano cuisine in my view is less famous but better than the very well know Giggetto al Portico d'Ottavia.
Il Giardino Romano
From Rome To Positano - Jun 24
Departure
Private Transfer To Positano
Positano
Positano is the most impressive town on the Amalfi Coast, and arguably the most photographed of the region. Its the highlight of your Amalfi coast Italy trip.
Seen from the sea, Positano shows a dramatic vertical panorama of colors. The green of the Monti Lattari, the white, pink and yellow of the Mediterranean houses, the silvery grey of its pebble beaches and the blue of the sea. Just amazing!
The sea colour is crystalline and its black, volcanic sand beaches such as Marina grande and Fornillo are an irresistible temptation.
On top of the exceptional landscape, you will love the church of Santa Maria Teresa of the Assumption and its colored tiled dome, the Saracen towers, the little villages of Nocelle and Montepertuso which are places of an extraordinary beauty.
Positano is also known for its shops, selling local pottery and leather sandals. Local craftsmen produce them in traditional small workshops you can visit.
Don’t forget to taste local delicacies: on top of seafood you should have a try to local desserts such as Delizie al limone (soft pastry with a delicious lemon flavoured cream) and torta positanese (cake with almonds).
If you are looking for god, traditional food, and an amazing view, opt for the restaurant La Tagliata. It’s up in the mountain (they can organize transports) and the experience is absolutely breathtaking.
Things To Do For Kids
Suggestions Coming Soon.
Hotel Belair
Room / Bed Type
Junior Suite Family with balcony and sea view + 1 extra bed (3 Adults)
Booking #
2023092128262680
The 5-star Hotel Belair stands on the costa delle Sirene (Syren Coast) in one of its most scenic corners. The entire bay of Naples, the Vesuvius, Sorrento open up to the eyes of our Guests who from the terraces, rooms and suites, all sea view, can admire one of the most unique sceneries of the world.
Dinner at Zass (suggested)
Chef Alois Vanlangenaeker ‘s dishes embody his quest for purity, harmony & refinement. His creations recall contemporary paintings while seeking to maintain Italian gastronomic tradition. “My aim is to enhance the existing product. I have great respect for the ingredients.”
Zass
Via Laurito, 2, 84017 Positano SA, Italy
Let's Cook - Jun 25
Cooking Class
Sample Menu
Main Dish
Fresh Pasta
Sample Pasta Dishes: Paccheri Or Gnocchi Or Scialatielli or Ravioli or Maccaroncelli
Dessert
Tiramisu
Enjoy a great dinner at Chez Black (suggested)
Chez Black Is The Most Iconic Restaurant In Positano located right on the main beach.
Day Trip To Capri - Jun 26
Departure
Hydrofoil To Capri
The Hydrofoil to Capri pier is five minutes drive fro your hotel. Navigation time: around 1:00 hour.
Explore Capri At Leisure
From the Marina Grande harbour move to Capri town via the Funicolare trolley: it will bring you right in the famous piazzetta ("small square"), where you can sit for a coffee or a gelato. Open your eyes, you could spot VIPs here!
From the piazzetta, you can walk to the famous Gardens of Augustus or, if you like to get away from the crowds, you can walk to Punta Tragara to admire the Faraglioni rock. Walk down the stairs to Luigi ai Faraglioni restaurant and small beach, where you can dive in the blue sea.
Alternatively, you can visit the impressive remains of the roman villa of Emperor Tiberio, built on one of the highest cliffs of the island.
It's very easy to visit Capri at leisure, but we can provide a private guide if you wish more guidance.
Discover Capri cliffs and the Blue Grotto by boat (optional)
You will meet your guide at the Marina Grande harbor and join a group tour of the island by boat.
The tour lasts roughly one hour, plus the stop at the blue Grotto, and will give you the opportunity to admire the amazing cliffs and rock pinnacle of the island.
For security reasons, the visit to the Blue Grotto is possible only when the sea is absolutely calm, your captain will check it for you and suggest the best option.
Exploring Charming Capri At Leisure
With its stunning rock cliffs over a deep blue sea and its polished, upper-class gardens and villas, this beautiful island in front of the Sorrento bay has much to offer.
Only about six kilometers long and a little more than two kilometers wide, the island has two towns: Capri and high above it, Anacapri.
Apart from the glamorous international people-watching scene (the island is a favorite for celebrities and the paparazzi that follow them), the island's chief pleasures are its scenery, natural wonders, and its lush greenery (look for acanthus leaves, the inspiration for Corinthian capitals on columns), all best appreciated from its many walking paths or by boat.
Departure
Hydrofoil To Positano
At The End Of Day, Get Back To Positano
Enjoy delicious food at La Sponda at Le Sirenuse (suggested)
At first, it’s the view that fells you. Positano’s jaunty stack of houses and its iridescent church dome are so close you feel you could reach out and touch them. No wonder so many marriage proposals have been made here over the years. Of an evening, the soft glow helps, cast by hundreds of suspended candles that take an hour to light in the evening and almost as long to extinguish. But musicians Franco and Andrea have to shoulder their share of blame too, for making things so romantic. Their lilting guitar and mandolin melodies have melted many a heart.
Boat Day! - Jun 27
Departure
Boat Tour Of Positano - 2 hours
Small Group Tour to Positano by Boat at Sunset A tour along the coast to discover the most scenic ravines of the coast and take unforgettable photos! The tour is designed for small groups (max 16 people). We will depart from Positano at the most magical hour of the day and sail the Amalfi Coast stopping at the best corners! An unmissable stop will be the Fiordo di Furore, where we will allow ourselves an aperitif with music! Our captain will be available to take your unsurpassed photos, but you can also request a professional photographer! extra price On board you will find: bluetooth/aux audio, wi-fi, minibar with soft drinks. The boat is equipped with a cabin, toilet, rescue equipment for adults and children. no swimming in the sea
Dinner at Rada restaurant (Michelin star) (optional)
Right at the end of Positano beach, and above the ground-floor night club, this restaurant on the first floor of an old fishermen’s warehouse offers breathtaking views of the village and the sea.
Creative cuisine inspired by Mediterranean traditions.
Free Day - Jun 28
Free Day
From Positano To Rome To Home - Jun 29
Private Transfer To Naples Airport
Departure from Naples
Flight Details
Saturday, June 29th, 2024
AA 781
NAP
Naples
12:35 PM
PHL
Philadelphia
4:45 PM
Seat: 12A, 12B, 12C
Class: Economy (B)
Meals: Lunch, Snack
Trip Cancellation Policy
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$300 non-refundable amount.
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From 179/120 days before arrival, 50% of the full payment is retained.
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From 119/31 days before arrival, 85% of the full payment is retained.
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Less than 30 days before arrival, 100% of the full payment is retained.
Please complete the Guest Registration form below and submit it to reserve your room. Please also visit the payment section to send in your deposit/payments
Trip Insurance:
For peace of mind, please visit my INS site and add Trip insurance to your getaway. Visit the link below and click on the Travelguard information at the bottom of the page for a quote. Travmanity -- Home
INFORMATION & DOCUMENTS
Payment Dates And More
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Flight Cost
- 1,943 x3 = $5,829.00
Paid 9/19/23
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Hotel Pkg
- 17,585/4 = $4,400.00
Due Dates
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Sept 19th
- 4,400 - PAID
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Nov 1st
- 4,400
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March 1st
- 4,400
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May 1st
- 3,485
Total Due Sept 19th - PAID
5,829 + 4,400 = 10,229
Please Review And Advise If I Should Proceed.
All payment details (due dates & payment amount) are listed online.
There are three ways to make your payment.
Zelle, Cashapp and Credit cards (down below)
Zelle and Cashapp payments are free and you can send any amount at any time before the due date.
If you need to make a credit card payment please contact me with the amount you want to pay and I will send you an invoice. There is a processing fee with each credit card payment.
Zelle * Cashapp payment instructions:
Please add to the notes (NameItaly8days) to either payment method
Zelle
- Name: Saysaw Donaldson
- 856-261-3719
Cashapp (Use the $(Name and phone# below only)
$DonaldsonLTS
856-343-0126
What is Included
- Hotels as mentioned, breakfast included
- 3h private walking tour in Rome (Pantheon tickets included)
- Half day private tour in Rome
- Tickets for Colosseum/Palatine Hill and Vatican Museum/Sistine Chapel
- High speed train Rome-Naples
- PIZZA WORKSHOP IN NAPLES MAKE YOUR MARGHERITA (shared activity)
- Private transfer Naples-Positano-Naples
- Full day driver to explore Amalfi coast
- Ferry boat tickets Positano-Capri-Positano
What is Not Included
- Flights to and from Italy
- Travel insurance
- Lunch and dinners if not mentioned
- Local transports (taxi and buses)
- Entry tickets if not mentioned
- Local taxes (to be paid to the hotels)
- Gratuities
- Transfer on Capri
- Any other item not mentioned
- Optional and suggested activities
How to travel by train in Italy
Taking the train in Italy is one of the most efficient and scenic ways to travel between cities. Here’s a guide on how to take a train in Italy and use the railway stations:
1. Choosing the Right Train:
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Regional Trains (Treni Regionali): These trains connect small towns and larger cities. They are slower and stop more frequently.
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Intercity (IC): Faster than regional trains, connect major cities.
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Frecciabianca, Frecciarossa, and Frecciargento (The "Arrows"): These are high-speed trains. Frecciarossa is the fastest. On these trains you must reserve your seat.
2. Buying Tickets:
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Online: Trenitalia (the main railway company) and Italo (private company) offer online booking. Check their websites for schedules and prices.
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At the Station: Self-service machines are available, and they often have an English language option. You can also go to the ticket counter, but be prepared for potential language barriers.
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Travel Agencies: Some local agencies sell train tickets.
3. Understanding Pricing:
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Fares can vary based on how early you book and the type of train. High-speed trains tend to be more expensive.
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There are discounts available for groups, children, and seniors.
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Tickets can have several levels of flexibility. We always provide flexible, refundable tickets, so that you can anticipate or postpone your departure, provided that there are available seats in the train you chose.
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You can modify tickets online, on the train operator web site, or at the staion, at the train operator kiosk.
4. At the Station:
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Arrive Early: Especially if it's your first time. Italian stations can be busy!
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Look for the "Partenze" Board: This is the departures board. It will list the trains, their destinations, departure times, and platform numbers.
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Platform: Once you know your platform, head there to wait for your train. Note that platforms can change, so keep an eye on the board!
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Access: in large stations such as Rome and Milan, you may be asked to use the QR code on the ticket to accessthe platform through the automatic doors. I suggest you have a print out of the ticket with you.
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Validation: If you have a paper ticket for a regional train, you must validate it before boarding. Look for the green and white machines, insert your ticket, and it will stamp a date/time on it. This is to prevent people from using the same ticket multiple times.
5. On the Train:
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Find Your Seat: If you have a reservation, your car (carrozza) and seat number (posto) will be on your ticket. If you're on a regional train without a reservation, you can sit in any unreserved seat.
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Luggage: There are overhead racks for small bags and spaces at the end of each car for larger items.
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Ticket Check: A conductor will come around to check tickets. Have yours handy.
6. Arriving at Your Destination:
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Stay Alert: Stations might not always be announced clearly, especially on regional trains. Know your arrival time or use a mobile map to track your journey.
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Exiting the Station: Once you arrive, follow the crowd to the "Uscita" (exit). If you need to connect to another train, look for signs to other platforms or consult the "Partenze" board again.
7. Tips and Tricks:
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Strike: Sometimes there are strikes (scioperi) which can affect train schedules. It’s good to be aware and have a backup plan.
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Restrooms: Stations have restrooms but often charge a small fee. Trains also have restrooms on board.
Enjoy the scenic vistas, the efficiency, and the experience of traveling by train in Italy!