15 Days / 13 Nights Starting at $5395 PP (Land Rate)
Perillo's Italy North Classic is the largest selling Italy tour in history. Developed in 1975 by Mario Perillo and Lucio Massari, it remains our most popular itinerary today. The 'Continental' tour delivers the identical itinerary (in reverse) but without dinners and without Milan.
Itinerary
Boarding your overnight flight, you’re off on the adventure of a lifetime.
Benvenuti a Roma! Your Perillo representative will be at the airport to greet you. We are pleased to offer complimentary transfers from the Rome airport to your hotel at scheduled times.
You’ll have some time to settle into your hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure to discover this magical city.
Tonight, you’ll meet your tour leader for a brief orientation and welcome drink. After orientation, you’ll be free for the remainder of the evening. Be sure to ask your tour leader for restaurant recommendations – so many wonderful places to eat in this amazing city!
This morning, it’s a five-minute drive to another country—Vatican City! With your expert local guide you’ll tour the Vatican Museums, a massive collection of ancient Greek sculptures, medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings.
Your visit culminates in the Sistine Chapel, the room where the Pope is elected. Next visit St. Peter’s Basilica, by far the largest church in Christendom. We’ll see Michelangelo’s Pietà, sculpted when he was just 24, as well as Bernini’s seven-story bronze canopy located above the main altar.
(Please note that the visit of St. Peter’s Basilica is subject to availability based on the events planned by the Pope.)
Tonight, recount your explorations with good food, fine wine and new friends at a local restaurant.
You’ll enjoy a relaxing, panoramic driving tour of Imperial Rome including the Roman Forum, downtown ancient Rome, the Circus Maximus, and the Great Synagogue, built in the heart of the Jewish quarter. Then you’ll enter the Colosseum, reliving the brutal entertainment of the gladiators and the lions, refereed by the Emperor himself.
Tonight, we thought you’d enjoy a dinner on your own. Ask your tour leader for a recommendation or venture out and explore the local restaurants in Rome! Be sure to try a Supplì, a quintessential Roman specialty: a Fried ball of rice filled with tomato sauce, meat, and melted mozzarella.
This morning, you’re off to Naples, birthplace of the Neapolitan pizza. You’ll stop along the way for a tour of Pompeii.
Imagine…a city perfectly preserved as it was on that fateful day 2,000 years ago, when ash and lava literally stopped it in its tracks. You’ll see the tragic fossils of people attempting to escape along with children and dogs.
Next, you’ll arrive in Naples, famous for its mix of Old-World character and modern charm. One of the oldest cities in Europe, Naples historic center (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is filled with art, architecture, and archeology, but the best part may be the wood-fired pizza. You’ll be staying at one of the best hotels in Naples – a well-known 4-star hotel on Naples seafront promenade, a lively spot right in front of Castel dell'Ovo, the Hotel Royal Continental.
Tonight, take a pizza-making class with a chef at the panoramic restaurant in your hotel. The best well-kept secrets to making Neapolitan pizza have been handed down for generations and tonight, our chef will share these secrets with you! The authentic Neapolitan pizza needs four main ingredients: Tomatoes from San Marzano, buffalo mozzarella from the Campania region, 00 wheat flour, yeast, and salt. Tonight, you’ll transform these ingredients into one of the best pizzas you’ve ever tasted. You’ll get to enjoy the fruits of your labor, along with some amazing appetizers – a pizza party in Naples!
This morning you’ll be taken to Capri, the world’s most enchanting island. Upon arrival, you’ll take a private boat for a tour of the island (weather permitting). You’ll cruise around the magnificent Faraglioni, Capri’s most iconic sight. These mythical towering rock formations, which jut out from the Mediterranean just off the island’s coast, were formed over the years by erosion from ocean waves.
Next, visit one of the lesser-known but equally beautiful sea caves, the Grotta Bianca. Once you arrive back on Capri, you’ll have free time to explore the island on your own or take advantage of a special optional excursion with your tour leader.
Later this afternoon, you’ll return to Naples and have some time to relax before heading out to a great Neapolitan restaurant for dinner.
Naples is the most authentic Italian city and certainly a world of its own. To enjoy and better understand this wonderful, yet complex city you will be accompanied by a local guide, born and raised in Napoli. You’ll depart from the hotel and head towards the Royal Palace.
It is a very beautiful walk, first along the sea, then crossing the Santa Lucia neighborhood up to Via Cesario Console, from where you will have a beautiful view of the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius.
You’ll visit the courtyard of the Royal Palace, from where you can admire the internal staircase. Next, you’ll walk through the garden that leads to the Teatro Lirico San Carlo, the world’s oldest working opera house.
You’ll have some free time to walk around and perhaps stop at Gambrinus, the most famous café` in Naples and enjoy a local Neapolitan specialty: a sfogliatella or pastiera.
Once back on the bus, we will drive through the Spaccanapol, which is the street that splits Naples in two.
This afternoon, you’ll visit Sorrento, known for its beautiful coastline, good weather and stunning views of Mount Vesuvius. You’ll have free time to sightsee and shop before returning to Naples.
The remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy as you please.
This morning, you’ll board a train to Florence! You’ll arrive in this beautiful Renaissance city and after checking into your hotel, you’ll have the afternoon free to enjoy!
This evening’s dinner features fine local wines at your hotel.
The bell tower of Pisa is among the most instantly recognizable structures on earth. Architects say it would be world-famous even if it were perfectly straight. This morning you’ll get to see this famous tower, along with the beautiful Cathedral and Baptistery.
This afternoon you’ll visit a typical Tuscan winery, and you’ll get to meet our dear friend, Pierluigi Giachi, the world’s most enchanting sommelier to learn about the grape, the nose, food pairings and, most importantly—which glass to use! Enjoy a wine tasting with these special wines along with an early light dinner. Cin-Cin!
Florence—the fountainhead of the Renaissance, awaits us! Your day of sightseeing includes the majestic Duomo Complex built in 1296, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Baptistery with its renowned Gates of Paradise doors.
Follow the medieval streets to the most striking square in Florence, Piazza della Signoria.
“Breathtaking” is the only word to describe one’s first view of Michelangelo’s David. Yes, it’s quite large and detailed!
Tonight, we’ll take you to our favorite local restaurant for a typical Tuscan dinner.
Visitors to Padua are often surprised by a sense of deep spirituality. St. Anthony (patron Saint of lost objects) is interred here in the serene Basilica, which dates back to the 1200s. You’ll have some time to visit the Basilica and then some free time to explore yourselves.
Next stop – Venice! Gondolas glide past us with their gondoliers singing. Your arrival is by bus and then switching into water taxis to reach your hotel. You’ll have some time to settle into your hotel and relax or go for a walk in this magical city.
Tonight, recount your explorations over dinner in your hotel. Good food, good wine, and great friends! Now that’s Italian!
This morning you’ll meet your expert local guide for a walking tour of St. Mark’s Square, the great Byzantine Basilica, the Bridge of Sighs, and an inside visit of the Doge’s Palace. Next, you’ll board the mostoscafo (motorboat) to the beautiful island of Murano, where you will visit one of the oldest glassblowing factories. The talented glass masters will show you two different glassblowing techniques: the hand-blown glass technique creating a small vase and the carved glass technique, creating a small sculpture like a glass horse, fish or cat.
This afternoon you’ll have a chance to get lost in the city’s labyrinth of canals, bridges and tiny piazzas. Being a small island, it’s impossible to stray very far. But it won’t hurt to master the phrase Dov’è Piazza San Marco?
Dinner is on your own tonight. When in Venice, do as the Venetians do! Enjoy Cicchetti, Venetian style tapas, served in various pubs all over Venice.
On the way to Milan, you’ll stop at one of the most popular sights on Lake Garda – the peninsula of Sirmione. Crossing the drawbridge, enter a peaceful world of hot springs, the Medieval castles and phenomenal views of the Dolomites.
Soon you’re in fashionable Milan, where you’ll begin with a panoramic drive around the city. Next, visit the Piazza del Duomo (“Cathedral Square”), the main piazza of Milan named after, and dominated by the impressive Milan Cathedral.
You’ll stroll through the spectacular glass-topped Galleria, the world’s first shopping mall and on to the famed La Scala Opera House.
Tonight, enjoy a Milanese dinner in your hotel.
This morning’s visit to Lugano is actually in Switzerland, but this Alpine paradise clings to its Italian roots. The natural beauty is accompanied by great shops filled with Swiss specialties—like clocks, watches and, of course, chocolate!
Next, you’ll get to visit Como, the charming town and pristine lake of the same name, lined with lovely villas.
Your last night together as a group will be at a fine Milanese restaurant.
No tears! You’ll exchange email addresses with your new friends and make plans for the future. How about you all meet again on another Perillo tour—to Hawaii or Spain!
This morning you board your flight home, arriving in the USA the same day. Unless, of course, you have decided to extend your stay and let this unforgettable journey continue a little longer! While you say arrivederci to Italy, you’ll realize you’re taking a little piece of it back home with you.
Thanks for traveling with the Perillo family, and please return soon.
Inclusions
- Centrally Located 4- & 5-star Hotels
- More Motorcoach Legroom
- Airport Transfers at Scheduled Times
- Full Breakfast Daily
- 9 Dinners
- Pizza Making Class
- Olive Oil & Wine Tasting
- Wireless Headsets To Hear Your Tour Guide Clearly
- Travel Wallet, Baggage Tags and Travel Documents
- Baggage Handling Throughout (Except at Airports)
- Hotel Taxes, City Taxes, Hotel Service Charges and all Tips For Hotel and Restaurant Personnel
- Professional Tour Directors and Licensed Local Guides
- Complimentary Wi-Fi On Our Buses
Dates & Rates
Depart - Return |
Per Person in a Double |
Solo Traveler |
---|---|---|
Mar 23 - Apr 6 | $5,395 | Last Seats! |
Apr 6 - Apr 20 | Sold Out! | |
Apr 13 - Apr 27 | Sold Out! | |
Apr 20 - May 4 | Sold Out! | |
Apr 27 - May 11 | Sold Out! | |
May 4 - May 18 | Sold Out! | |
May 11 - May 25 | Sold Out! | |
May 18 - Jun 1 | Sold Out! | |
May 25 - Jun 8 | Sold Out! | |
Jun 1 - Jun 15 | $6,295 | Last Seats! |
Jun 8 - Jun 22 | $6,295 | Last Seats! |
Jun 15 - Jun 29 | $6,295 | $8,295 |
Jun 22 - Jul 6 | $5,995 | $7,995 |
Jun 29 - Jul 13 | $5,995 | $7,995 |
Jul 6 - Jul 20 | $5,895 | $7,895 |
Jul 13 - Jul 27 | $5,495 | $7,495 |
Jul 20 - Aug 3 | $5,495 | $7,495 |
Jul 27 - Aug 10 | $5,495 | $7,495 |
Aug 3 - Aug 17 | $5,495 | $7,495 |
Aug 24 - Sep 7 | $5,995 | $7,995 |
Aug 31 - Sep 14 | $6,395 | $8,395 |
Sep 7 - Sep 21 | $6,395 | $8,395 |
Sep 14 - Sep 28 | Sold Out! | |
Sep 21 - Oct 5 | Sold Out! | |
Sep 28 - Oct 12 | $6,395 | Last Seats! |
Oct 5 - Oct 19 | Sold Out! | |
Oct 12 - Oct 26 | $6,295 | Last Seats! |
Oct 19 - Nov 2 | $5,995 | $7,995 |
Oct 26 - Nov 9 | $5,995 | $7,995 |
Nov 2 - Nov 16 | $5,495 | $7,495 |
Nov 9 - Nov 23 | $5,395 | $7,395 |
Triple room deduct $300 per person from the Double rate.
Kids under 12 sharing with 2 adults deduct $1000 from the Double Rate.
Hotel Info
Hotel NH Vittorio Veneto ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
The NH Collection Roma Vittorio Veneto hotel is located in the heart of Rome. Near the city’s most popular street, Via Veneto, stylish street edged with high-end boutiques, elegant restaurants and pavement cafés, it is within walking distance of Rome’s most famous sights, including the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, Villa Borghese Park and Piazza del Popolo. The building was once a Vatican-owned convent, but a 2009 refurbishment has given it plenty of contemporary style.
Rome
Hotel Royal Continental ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
The Royal Continental hotel is located on the Naples waterfront and offers an ideal location with superb views of the gulf. The property is centrally placed to visit all of the main attractions of the city as well as the beautiful Capri and Ischia islands and the coast of Amalfi and Sorrento. Our regular customers could tell you all about the welcoming, efficient and helpful staff.
Naples
Grand Hotel Baglioni
The Grand Hotel Baglioni, located in the heart of Florence, has been synonymous with hospitality and quality for over 100 years. It is housed in a magnificent 19th-century building, in which past and present coexist in perfect harmony, bearer of the values inherent to Florentine tradition.
Florence
Hotel Palazzo San Lorenzo ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
Palazzo San Lorenzo is a new, four-star superior hotel with an elegant design mix of classical and contemporary. It offers 26 luxurious rooms and junior suites that have been carefully designed in every detail and equipped with every comfort in order to make your stay in Venice an unforgettable experience.
Located directly along one of Venice’s more characteristic canals in the heart of the historical city center, Palazzo San Lorenzo is distinguished by the curved Istrian-stone window sills and the bas relief of the hotel’s namesake.
Venice
NH Touring ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
When it comes to location, the NH Milano Touring hotel ticks all the boxes. As well as being right next to the Indro Montanelli public park, it’s also only a 10-minute walk from Milan’s main train station and shopping area, and just 15 minutes from the historic city center. Plus there are two metro stations outside the hotel and the financial district is within easy reach, too.
Milan
Hotel Manin ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
The Manin Hotel is located in the heart of central Milan, near La Scala Theatre, the "Duomo di Milano" and the famous fashion avenues via Spiga, via Manzoni and via Montenapoleone, with a magnificent panoramic view over the city’s most beautiful park.
The Manin, a 4-star hotel with a century of tradition, is one of the most appreciated historic hotels in the Milan city center, renowned for its comfort and tranquility. It is located opposite the public gardens named after Indro Montanelli.
Milan
Air Info
Airfares are unpredictable and impossible to estimate at time of brochure printing. Your airfare can range anywhere from approximately $1,000 to $1,900 depending on your departure city. Additionally, current departure tax and fuel surcharges are approximately $650 per person and are subject to change.
Your exact airfare will be advised within 3 business days of booking your tour. You are under no obligation to accept Perillo's air schedule and quote. However, payment for tickets issued by Perillo Tours is due with "final payment."
Airfares DO include your roundtrip airport transfer in Italy at scheduled times, provided you arrive and depart on scheduled tour dates. If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, airport transfers are not included.
Book Early
We strongly recommend you BOOK EARLY as lowest airfares are on a first-come, first-serve basis. Plus, more availability on the most convenient flights and best seats.
Affordable Upgrades
When you purchase your Coach ticket through Perillo Tours, you can upgrade to "Premium Economy" on select flights starting at $550 each way. For ultimate comfort enjoy Business Class/First Class for a surcharge of as little as $4,000 per person.
Security Measures
The Transportation Security Administration requires all passengers to provide the exact name as it appears on the government-issued passport, passport number, expiration date, date of birth and gender when making airline reservations. This information will be requested at time of booking for all flight arrangements made through Perillo Tours.
CRITICALLY IMPORTANT: Name corrections are subject to change fees, so please have your passport in-hand when calling us for flight reservations.
Arranging your own air?
Roundtrip airport transfers are provided at scheduled times if you arrive and depart the same day as the tour begins and ends. Click here for the schedule.
Find Your Airport
Or call and let us help you.
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Optional Tour Add-Ons
Duration: 4 hrs
City: Rome
Immerse yourself in history as you explore the charming town and behold the magnificent Villa d'Este, a masterpiece of the Italian Garden and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its breathtaking array of fountains, grottoes, and captivating water displays accompanied by music. After this enchanting experience, return to Rome, enriched by the beauty and splendor of Italy's cultural heritage.
Duration: 1.5 hrs
City: Rome
Step into the captivating world of Renaissance Rome on our immersive walking tour, where we'll discover iconic landmarks like Bernini's Fountains, the majestic Spanish Steps, and the legendary Trevi Fountain—be sure to toss a coin and make a wish! (Note: On Monday mornings, the Trevi Fountain may be without water, as maintenance personnel collect coins.) Marvel at the grandeur of the Piazza of the Pantheon and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance of the renowned Piazza Navona. Join us as we embark on this fascinating journey through history and art, uncovering the splendors of Rome's Renaissance treasures.
Duration: 1.5 hrs
City: Rome
Indulge in the ultimate panoramic experience of Rome from the open upper deck of a double-decker bus. Revel in unparalleled views of the city's iconic landmarks and majestic architecture as you soak in the beauty of Rome from a unique vantage point.
Duration: 6 hrs
City: Capri
Experience the enchanting Isle of Capri in the company of a knowledgeable local guide on a full-day journey via open taxis. Delve into the island's authentic charm as your guide unveils its hidden gems, offering insights that only a resident could provide. Immerse yourself in the rich history and breathtaking natural wonders of Capri, from its storied past to its captivating landscapes. Indulge in a delightful lunch, included as part of your memorable excursion. Discover the essence of Capri through the eyes of a true insider, ensuring an unforgettable adventure filled with exploration and discovery. Lunch is included.
Duration: 35 min
City: Venice
Experience the quintessential essence of Venice with an unforgettable gondola ride accompanied by a mesmerizing serenade. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Venice, as you glide through its iconic waterways, serenaded by melodious tunes.
Duration: 1.5 hrs
City: Como
Embark on a captivating boat cruise and immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Lake Como. As you glide along the tranquil waters, marvel at the opulent Baroque and Neoclassical Villas nestled amidst lush parks. In the springtime, be enchanted by the vibrant bursts of color adorning the waterfront terraced gardens, showcasing an array of exquisite azaleas and rhododendrons in a spectacular display of nature's beauty.
format_quote Testimonials
My wife and I just returned from our North Continental 14 Day tour of Italy and wanted to let you know it was fabulous. We cannot think of a better way to see so much great art and history and culture in such a short time. Thanks again for offering such a great tour.
Mr. & Mrs. M.E.
I could not have picked a better trip for my first international tour than the 14-day North Classic Italy tour with Perillo! I am a retired teacher, limited in funds, so it was important for me to get it right the first time. And with Perillo, I did! A trip of a lifetime! Despite the inherent crowds and time constraints, Perillo made sure we did not have long waits anywhere at all. Our time was optimized, and we were able to see so many amazing sights and places. My favorite? Pompeii! Experience the Roman life without “dressing it up”. Least favorite? Capri. It was too heavy in shopping and too light in history. The meals were amazing, and you’ll have to pace yourself as you will have 4-course meals every night. The hotels were excellent! I felt positively pampered. The bus was modern and very comfortable and clean. The local guides were some of the best- extremely knowledgeable and efficient. Our tour director, Nadia, worked constantly to smooth our way every day. As a retired teacher who had to plan field trips, I know how challenging all that coordination can be. She was a seasoned professional! And I cannot say enough about the entire group- friendly, cooperative, and kind. I returned feeling that I was able to get a full Italian historical immersion to relive in my memory every day. I highly recommend Perillo!
Ms. J.L.