Use the Discount code: 10BELOW for any participants under the age of 10.

Use the Discount code: 111TO18 for any participants between the ages of 11 to 18 years old.

The Hoisington Family Adventure

Tour Highlights:

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Italy, from the sun-kissed Amalfi Coast and the storied ruins of Pompeii to the timeless treasures of Rome, Florence, and Tuscany. Continue north into the majestic Dolomites, where Alpine beauty meets Italian charm, before concluding in the enchanting canals of Venice. Along the way, you’ll discover world-renowned art, savor authentic regional cuisine, and enjoy hands-on experiences that bring Italy’s culture and history to life. Carefully designed with a balance of guided tours, performances, and free time, this tour offers the perfect blend of adventure, learning, and leisure — a once-in-a-lifetime journey you’ll never forget.

✨ What’s Included in Your Journey ✨

Two 24-Hour Bilingual Tour Directors – Travel with peace of mind knowing you have experienced guides by your side from start to finish.
Comfortable Hotels with Daily Breakfast – Wake up refreshed and ready to explore each day.
Private Transportation Throughout the Tour – Relax and enjoy the views while we handle the logistics.
Convenient Airport Transfers – (Note: additional fees may apply if flights are not within a similar timeframe).

Exclusive Vineyard Lunch – Savor authentic Italian flavors in the heart of wine country.
Tuscan Cooking Class & Meal – A hands-on culinary adventure you’ll never forget.
Entrances to All Activities Listed in the Itinerary – From ancient ruins to iconic landmarks.
Local Licensed Guides – Expert storytelling in Pompeii, Rome, and Venice brings history and culture to life.
Tips for Drivers Included – One less detail for you to worry about.

❌ Not Included

Comprehensive “Cancel for Any Reason” Travel Insurance (CFAR) – Highly recommended for peace of mind.
Tips for Local Tour Guides – At your discretion, to thank them for their expertise.
Meals Not Listed in the Itinerary – Perfect moments to explore on your own.
Hotel Porterage – Travelers handle their own luggage.

ITINERARY:
The Hoisington's Family Adventure

Pre-Extension Itinerary

DAY 1 – Welcome to Rome or Naples!

Meet your Tour Directors, Lorna Holland and Dante Zambrano Cassella, as soon as you exit Customs.
Board private transportation and travel to Sorrento (approx. 3.5 hours from Rome or 1 hour from Naples), a charming coastal town perched high above the Bay of Naples, known for its lemon groves, artisan shops, and spectacular cliffside views.
Check in to your hotel.
Later, enjoy an orientation walk through Sorrento’s historic center, with time for shopping, drinks, and dinner at leisure.

DAY 2 – Amalfi Coast Excursion

8:00 – Breakfast at the hotel.
9:00 – Our private chauffeur picks us up for a scenic drive along the Amalfi Coast, one of the most famous coastal routes in the world. Expect winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and endless views of the sparkling Mediterranean Sea. Stop at breathtaking viewpoints for photos and refresh with a traditional lemon granita.
Lunch at a restaurant with a sea view (own cost).
In the afternoon, visit Amalfi, the picturesque seaside town that once was a powerful maritime republic. Highlights include the Cathedral of Saint Andrew, an impressive blend of Arab-Norman and Baroque styles.
Return to Sorrento in the evening for shopping, dinner, and overnight stay.

DAY 3 – Capri Adventure

8:00 – Breakfast at the hotel.
Board the ferry from Sorrento to Capri (approx. 30 minutes).
Begin with a boat ride around the island, passing by the famous Faraglioni sea stacks, the Punta Carena lighthouse, the striking Villa Malaparte, and the Natural Arch.
Return to port after 2 hours.
Travel by bus up to the town of Capri, where we’ll stroll through the Gardens of Augustus with their colorful terraces overlooking the sea. Continue to Anacapri, a quieter hilltop village, for lunch.
Ride the seggiovia chairlift to the summit of Monte Solaro for panoramic views of the island and the Mediterranean.
Evening ferry back to Sorrento. Free time for dinner, shopping, and hotel stay.

DAY 4 – Pompeii & Transfer to Rome

8:00 – Breakfast and hotel checkout.
Private transfer to Pompeii (approx. 1 hour), where a guided tour will uncover the ruins of this ancient Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walk among preserved villas, temples, baths, and even ancient graffiti, gaining insight into daily life nearly 2,000 years ago.
Lunch on own.
Private transfer to Rome (approx. 3 hours).
6:00 – Check in to hotel.
Free time to relax, followed by dinner. Overnight in Rome.

Main Tour

DAY 1 – Welcome to Rome!

Arrive at Fiumicino Airport (FCO). Meet your private driver for transfer to your centrally located hotel.
Dinner and overnight in Rome.

DAY 2 – Ancient Rome & Historic Squares

8:00 – Breakfast.
Morning guided tour of the Colosseum, the massive amphitheater where gladiators once fought, and the Roman Forum, the heart of ancient Roman politics and society.
12:30 – Lunch on own.
4:00 – Afternoon walking tour of Rome’s most iconic piazzas and fountains: climb the Spanish Steps, toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, marvel at the engineering of the Pantheon, and enjoy the lively Piazza Navona with its fountains by Bernini.
Evening free to experience “La Dolce Vita” on your own.

DAY 3 – Vatican City & Trastevere

8:00 – Tour the Vatican Museums, home to centuries of priceless art, culminating in the stunning Sistine Chapel with Michelangelo’s ceiling. Continue to St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world.
Lunch on own.
Afternoon free for shopping and sightseeing.
Dinner in Trastevere, one of Rome’s most charming neighborhoods, filled with cobbled streets, trattorias, and lively piazzas. Return to hotel.

DAY 4 – Rome to Florence

8:00 – Breakfast.
9:00 – Depart by motorcoach to Florence (approx. 3.5 hours).
Drop bags at the hotel and enjoy lunch.
Visit Michelangelo’s iconic David at the Accademia Gallery. Explore landmarks like the Florence Cathedral (Duomo) with Brunelleschi’s dome, and the Ponte Vecchio, the medieval bridge lined with jewelers.
Dinner at a traditional Florentine restaurant. Return to hotel.

DAY 5 – Florence & Tuscan Experience

8:00 – Breakfast.
Free time to wander Florence’s artisan markets, churches, and piazzas.
Visit Piazzale Michelangelo for breathtaking views over the city.
Evening cooking class at a Tuscan farmhouse or vineyard, where you’ll prepare traditional dishes before enjoying them together. Return to hotel.

DAY 6 – Tuscan Countryside Day Trip

8:00 – Breakfast.
Explore Tuscany with a guided visit to Siena, known for its fan-shaped Piazza del Campo and Gothic cathedral.
Drive through the Chianti Hills, stopping for an included Tuscan lunch and wine tasting at a vineyard.
Continue to San Gimignano, the medieval “town of towers,” famous for its skyline and award-winning gelato.
Return to Florence for dinner and overnight.

DAY 7 – Florence to Bolzano (Dolomites)

8:00 – Breakfast.
9:00 – Depart north by motorcoach (approx. 5 hours).
Arrive in Bolzano, a picturesque Alpine town at the gateway to the Dolomites. Check into your hotel.
Dinner at a traditional Tyrolean restaurant.

DAY 8 – Dolomites Adventure

8:00 – Breakfast.
9:00 – Drive into the heart of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage mountain range known for jagged peaks and breathtaking landscapes.
Hike to the top of a waterfall and experience the FlyLine Zipline (with an option for drop-off at the top).
Lunch in a cozy forest restaurant at the base of the waterfall.
Return to Bolzano for dinner.

DAY 9 – Merano 2000 (Optional)

Take the motorcoach to Merano 2000, a mountain plateau offering outdoor adventures such as hiking, alpine coasters, and panoramic views. (Details to be finalized and priced.)

DAY 10 – Bolzano to Venice (via Prosecco Hills)

8:00 – Breakfast.
9:00 – Depart by motorcoach to Venice (approx. 4.5 hours).
On the way, stop in Valdobbiadene, the heart of the Prosecco region, to learn about Italy’s most famous sparkling wine and enjoy lunch with views over the vineyard-covered hills.
Arrive at Venice airport and board private speedboat taxis to your hotel.
Dinner and overnight in Venice.

DAY 11 – Venice Highlights & Gondola Ride

8:00 – Breakfast.
9:00 – Guided walking tour of Venice, including St. Mark’s Square, the Basilica, and the Rialto Bridge. Hear stories of Venice’s powerful past as a maritime republic.
Lunch on own.
Afternoon gondola ride through the canals. Free time for shopping or wandering Venice’s alleys and bridges.
Evening farewell dinner. Overnight in Venice.

DAY 12 – Departure

Breakfast at hotel (depending on flight time).
Private water taxis to Venice Airport for departure.

TOUR COSTS:
The Hoisington's Family Adventure

12-Day Rome to Venice Tour – $112,250
Pricing based on 21 travelers

3-Night Sorrento & Amalfi Coast Extension – $26,745
Pricing based on 13 travelers

Enhance your Italian adventure with a three-night extension in the stunning Amalfi Coast region.

This package includes:

Private motorcoach travel along the Amalfi Coast with a professional driver, offering breathtaking views of the coastline.
Ferry travel between Sorrento and the Isle of Capri for a scenic passage across the Mediterranean.
Private 2–2.5 hour boat tour of Capri, including the option for a 20-minute swim in the crystal-clear waters.

Optional Upgrade:

Transform one or both days into a full-day private boat charter, giving you access to secluded beaches and more time to swim and explore. Lunch can be customized either onboard or at an exclusive beach location, such as La Tonnerella, a favorite spot of Jackie Kennedy and Stanley Tucci.

Upgrade pricing starts at $2,000 per group, depending on your selected itinerary adjustments, meal preferences, and desired time for activities.

F.A.Q
The Hoisington's Family Adventure

🌍 Italy Tour – Comprehensive FAQ & Travel Guide

✈️ General Travel to Italy

Do I need a visa to travel to Italy?
U.S. citizens traveling for less than 90 days do not need a visa, only a valid passport with at least six months remaining after your return date. Non-U.S. citizens should check their specific requirements with the Italian Embassy.

What currency is used in Italy?
Italy uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, hotels, and restaurants. Smaller cafés, markets, or rural areas may prefer cash, so it’s wise to carry €20–€50 in smaller notes. ATMs (“bancomat”) are common, but check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.

What language is spoken?
Italian is the official language. In northern regions like Bolzano, German is also widely spoken. In tourist cities, many Italians understand English, but outside large cities, English may be limited. A few Italian phrases like “grazie” (thank you) and “per favore” (please) go a long way.

What kind of electrical outlets are used in Italy?
Italy uses 220V, 50Hz electricity, with plugs type C, F, and L. U.S. devices will need a plug adapter, and possibly a converter if they are not dual-voltage (check your device label).

Is tap water safe to drink?
Yes. Tap water is safe in most places, and Italy is famous for its public fountains, especially in Rome. Many fountains flow with fresh, cold water that locals and tourists refill bottles with.

What is the time zone?
Italy is in Central European Time (CET), which is 6 hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the U.S. (or 9 hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time).

What should I pack?

Comfortable walking shoes (cobblestones are everywhere!)
Layers: T-shirts, sweaters, and a light jacket depending on the season
Rain jacket or umbrella (weather can change quickly)
Conservative clothes for churches (covered shoulders and knees)
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle

What is Italian etiquette like?
Italians appreciate politeness. A smile, a greeting (“buongiorno” in the morning, “buonasera” in the evening) is important. Meals are enjoyed slowly, and it’s considered rude to rush or ask for the check immediately.

🌊 Amalfi Coast & Sorrento

What makes the Amalfi Coast so special?
The Amalfi Coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for colorful cliffside villages, turquoise waters, lemon groves, and one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world. Towns like Positano and Amalfi are postcard-perfect.

Is the drive along the coast safe?
Yes, but the roads are winding and narrow. Our private driver is experienced, but if you get carsick, bring motion sickness medication.

What foods are famous here?
Limoncello (lemon liqueur), handmade pasta with fresh seafood, and pastries like sfogliatella. Lemons are HUGE here, and you’ll see them everywhere.

What souvenirs should I buy?
Ceramics (especially hand-painted plates), lemon-based products (soap, candy, oils), and hand-made sandals in Positano.

🏝️ Capri

Why is Capri famous?
Capri has been a resort island since Roman times. Its beauty lies in dramatic cliffs, sea caves, designer shops, and glamorous visitors.

What is the Blue Grotto?
It’s a sea cave where sunlight reflects under the water, creating an electric-blue glow. Visits depend on calm seas—if waves are too strong, it won’t be accessible.

What else is there to do?

Chairlift to Monte Solaro for breathtaking views
Gardens of Augustus overlooking the Faraglioni rocks
Boat ride around the island
Shopping in Capri town’s boutique streets

Is Capri expensive?
Yes, it’s known for luxury, but there are affordable cafes and gelato shops. It’s a mix of glamour and natural beauty.

🏛️ Pompeii

What is Pompeii?
Pompeii is a Roman city buried under ash after Mount Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. The volcanic ash preserved homes, streets, shops, temples, and even plaster casts of the victims. It’s like stepping back 2,000 years in time.

How much walking is involved?
Pompeii is huge (over 150 acres excavated). The ground is uneven with cobblestones, so good shoes are essential.

What will we see?
The Forum, theaters, villas with frescoes, bakeries, temples, and possibly the plaster casts of residents.

Can we climb Mount Vesuvius?
Sometimes tours include it, but even if we don’t climb, you’ll see it towering over Pompeii.

🏟️ Rome

Why is Rome called the Eternal City?
Rome has been continuously inhabited for over 3,000 years. It’s home to layers of history—ancient ruins, Renaissance palaces, Baroque fountains, and modern city life.

What are the must-sees?

The Colosseum: Gladiator arena and symbol of Rome
Roman Forum: Heart of ancient political and social life
Pantheon: A temple turned church, nearly 2,000 years old
Trevi Fountain: Toss a coin to ensure your return to Rome
Vatican City: Home to the Pope, Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica

Is there a dress code at the Vatican?
Yes—shoulders and knees must be covered. No hats inside.

What should I eat in Rome?
Cacio e pepe (pasta with pecorino and black pepper), carbonara, gelato, and Roman-style pizza (thin and crispy).

What’s nightlife like in Rome?
Evenings are for strolling (“la passeggiata”), sitting at cafés, and enjoying gelato or espresso. Piazza Navona and Trastevere are lively areas after dark.

🎨 Florence & Tuscany

Why is Florence important?
Florence is the birthplace of the Renaissance. It produced artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci and is home to iconic masterpieces.

What are the highlights?

The Duomo (cathedral with Brunelleschi’s dome)
Michelangelo’s David at the Accademia
Uffizi Gallery (Botticelli, da Vinci, Caravaggio)
Ponte Vecchio bridge

What makes Tuscan towns special?

Siena: Known for its Palio horse race and stunning cathedral
San Gimignano: Nicknamed “the Medieval Manhattan” for its towers
Vineyards & olive groves: Tuscany is the heart of Italian wine country

What food is Tuscany famous for?
Bistecca alla fiorentina (Florentine steak), pecorino cheese, fresh bread soups like ribollita, and wines such as Chianti.

What unique activity will we do here?
A cooking class with a traditional Tuscan meal, plus a vineyard lunch in the countryside.

⛰️ The Dolomites & Bolzano

What are the Dolomites?
A UNESCO World Heritage mountain range in northern Italy, famous for jagged limestone peaks, meadows, and alpine traditions.

Why is Bolzano unique?
Bolzano is bilingual—Italian and German—reflecting its history as part of Austria until 1919. It’s a blend of Italian charm and Austrian alpine culture.

What activities are planned?

Hiking to waterfalls
FlyLine zipline adventure
Enjoying alpine huts with traditional mountain food

What foods are typical here?
Speck (smoked ham), knödel (dumplings), apple strudel, and local wines like Gewürztraminer.

What is the Ötzi museum?
Bolzano is home to the famous Iceman, a 5,300-year-old mummy preserved in ice.

🚤 Venice

Why is Venice unique?
It’s a city built on water, with canals instead of streets and boats instead of cars. Venice has over 400 bridges and 118 islands.

What are the highlights?

St. Mark’s Square and Basilica
Doge’s Palace
Gondola ride through the canals
Rialto Bridge and market

Is Venice crowded?
Yes, especially midday. Early morning and late evening walks are magical and much quieter.

What should I eat in Venice?
Cicchetti (Venetian tapas), seafood risotto, squid ink pasta, and tiramisu (which originated nearby).

What souvenirs should I buy?
Murano glass, Venetian masks, and lace from Burano.

🧳 Practical Questions

Is tipping required?
Tipping is not mandatory in Italy, but rounding up or leaving €1–2 for good service is appreciated. Many restaurants include a “coperto” (service charge).

How will we travel between cities?
Private motorcoach for excursions, high-speed trains for long distances, ferries/boats in Capri and Venice.

What’s the weather like?

Rome & Amalfi: Mediterranean, warm and sunny
Florence & Tuscany: Mild, but cooler in evenings
Dolomites: Mountain weather, can change quickly, cooler nights
Venice: Can be humid, sometimes foggy in spring/fall

Is Italy safe?
Yes, but pickpocketing is common in tourist areas. Keep valuables close, use a crossbody bag, and be alert in crowds.

What about Wi-Fi and phones?

Hotels usually provide free Wi-Fi. For data, consider an international phone plan, Italian SIM card, or portable Wi-Fi device.