Tour Description

While most associate Italy with a piercing, orange-hued summer, the mild winters make the country the perfect place to visit during the off season! On this eight-day trip, you’ll see all the iconic spots with far fewer tourists crowding the squares and clogging up the lines. Take in the crumbling ruins of Rome, the renaissance beauty of Florence and the canals of 15th century Venice and grab your classic photo of the Leaning Tower in Pisa. With the cold mornings and afternoon espressos, you’ll have all the more reason to tuck into all the delicious local cuisine, glasses of vino and cheeky desserts, too – ah Italia!

Priced From:

$ 4060.00pp ^*

Valid From: 01JAN2025

Valid To: 31DEC2025

Start Location: Rome

End Location: Venice

Countries: Italy,

Tour Advisors

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Caitlin Lennon

Travel Coordinator

Michelle Baldwin

Travel Specialist

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Highlights

See all the highlights of Italy without the crowds – this winter adventure celebrates the mild off-season of a tourist favourite, getting you closer to all the spots you want to tick off the list.

Wander around Rome's famous landmarks including the Colosseum (one of the Seven Wonders of the World), Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, St Peter's Basilica and much more.

Get lost in the floating city of Venice. The maze of alleyways, canals and lagoon islands lead to over 130 churches, all with their own distinct character.

Learn to make the king of all comfort foods – pasta, of course – by hand in Bologna. Then, tuck into your creations for dinner with your group and friendly host.

Itinerary

Buongiorno! Welcome to Italy. Your adventure begins in the collossal city of Rome – a capital where modern restaurants and cafes live among ancient ruins and religious monuments. You’ll have a welcome meeting tonight at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early, and it’s recommended that you do, maybe take a tour of the Colosseum – one of the famed Seven Wonders of the World – grab dinner in trendy Trastevere and throw a coin into the Trevi Fountain, making a wish to return to the 'Eternal City'. After tonight's meeting, why not head out for dinner with your group and indulge in some classic Italian cuisine (maybe with a glass of the local vino).

When in Rome! Join your leader on an orientation walk around the city and spot the iconic sites like the Colosseum and Arch of Constantine, the Forum (centre of ancient Rome), the Victor Emmanuel Monument, the Pantheon, via Condotti and the Spanish Steps. Your afternoon is then free to explore at your own pace. Maybe recharge with a slice of pizza and a strong espresso at the Piazza Navona or head into Vatican City and St Peter's Basilica. Entry to the Basilica is free and there's a small charge to climb the dome for a panorama over the city. History buffs may also want to walk through the ancient halls of the Pantheon.

This morning, depart the Eternal City and catch a train to Florence. When you arrive, check into the hotel and go for a brief walk around the area to get your bearings. Florence is one of the most culturally rich and beautiful cities in Italy, known to many as the beating heart of Tuscany. The Medicis, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Brunelleschi, Machiavelli, Donatello and Michelangelo all lived in Florence at the height of their creative reign. Food is a major part of the city's identity, so you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to lunch and dinner. Meat lovers should try the bistecca alla fiorentina (a huge T-bone steak that's usually shared between two people) or ribollita (a thick vegetable soup with bread, beans and greens). Panforte is the signature sweet treat, so maybe grab some in the afternoon or after dinner.

Set out to the nearby city of Pisa. When you arrive, head out on a short orientation walk then visit the world-famous Leaning Tower. Grab your classic pinching-the-tower photo, then visit the Duomo (Piazza dei Miracoli, once the largest in Europe) and Pisa Baptistry (it's not always possible to climb the tower). The tower was built in the 12th century, but its foundation was on shifting sand and clay, meaning that it now leans at an angle of 4 degrees (after restoration and stabilising work). Wander the narrow streets, which feature everything from high-end boutiques to specialty book and antique stores, and maybe end the afternoon with an aperitif. Head back to Florence and make the most of your free afternoon to soak up the culturally rich atmosphere. Maybe walk up to Piazzale Michelangelo, set on a hill on the south bank of the Arno River, to take in the views of the city.

This morning, jump on a train to Bologna. Often neglected by travellers, Bologna is a charming city filled with medieval and Renaissance buildings and art. Get acquainted with this orange-hued hub during an orientation walk, then learn the fine art of Italian cooking with an evening cooking class. Here, you’ll be crafting the king of comfort food – pasta, of course! After learning the tricks of the trade, tuck into your creations for dinner.

Early this morning, get the train to the postcard-perfect city of Venice. Full of bridges, towers, piazzas, canals, churches and gondolas that remain practically unchanged since the 15th century, Venice is just as beautiful as you've always imagined. An orientation walk will help you to get the hang of the maze of the complex canal system, then you can set out on your own. Meet back up with your group in the late afternoon for a cicchetti walking tour (small snacks served in most bars and cafes) Snack and sip your way through the bars and taverns, soaking up the local culture in the best way.

Today is for exploring Venice and there are only two ways to get around this city – on foot or by boat. This morning, you’ll get a taste of both. Take the Vaporetto (water bus) over to the island of San Giorgio to climb the bell tower for the best view of the city and the canals. Then, the rest of the day is free to walk at your own pace. Perhaps grab an espresso and people watch in San Marco Square or discover the incredible artwork at the Palazzo Ducale or the Peggy Guggenheim Collection. In the evening, maybe join your fellow travellers for a group dinner at a local restaurant. Venice is famous for its specialities of fresh lobster and squid ink spaghetti dishes – just ask your leader for the best spots!

With no further activities planned, your adventure comes to an end this morning. You're free to depart the accommodation at any time before check-out. As there is so much to see in Venice, it’s recommended that you stay a few extra days. If you need help with booking additional accommodation, just speak to your booking agent at the time of booking.

Dates & prices

Dates

Prices

Availability

Departure Date :

01NOV2025

Return Date :

08NOV2025

4590NZD

available

Departure Date :

08NOV2025

Return Date :

15NOV2025

4650NZD

available

Departure Date :

29NOV2025

Return Date :

06DEC2025

4490NZD

available

Departure Date :

06DEC2025

Return Date :

13DEC2025

4320NZD

available

Departure Date :

10JAN2026

Return Date :

17JAN2026

4060NZD

available

Departure Date :

17JAN2026

Return Date :

24JAN2026

4060NZD

available

Departure Date :

24JAN2026

Return Date :

31JAN2026

4060NZD

available

Departure Date :

07FEB2026

Return Date :

14FEB2026

4060NZD

available

Departure Date :

21FEB2026

Return Date :

28FEB2026

4060NZD

available

Departure Date :

07MAR2026

Return Date :

14MAR2026

4220NZD

available

Trip Notes

Last modified (date)

29 Aug 2024

Trip title

Highlights of Italy in Winter

Trip code

ZLSW

Validity

Validity: 01 Jan 2025 to 31 Dec 2025

Introduction

Style

Original

Themes

Explorer

Transport

Train,Public bus,Metro

Physical Rating

Joining point

Hotel Madison

Via Marsala 60 00185 Roma RM, Italy

Rome

ITALY

Phone: +39 0683395266

Joining point description

The Hotel Madison Roma boasts a strategic location in the centre of the Eternal City. Within a few minutes' walk you can reach the Baths of Diocletian, Piazza della Repubblica and the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore. Other main attractions in the area include: Altar of the Patria , Fori Imperiali and Colosseum.

Joining point instructions

If you have booked an arrival transfer, and you experience severe delays at immigration, baggage collection or customs, or if you are not able to find to the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly on the following number: +39 338 6766111

Finish point

Hotel Villa Rosa

Calle Pesaro, 389

Venice

30121

ITALY

Phone: +39 041716569

Finish point description

Hotel Villa Rosa is a refurbished villa, located in the quiet area of Cannaregio in the northern part of Venice's lagoon. The property is just a 5 minute walk from the Santa Lucia Railway Station, and 20 minutes by vaporetto from Piazza San Marco. All rooms include air-conditioning, a private bathroom with hairdryer, telephone and TV.

Finish point instructions

If you have pre-booked a departure transfer you will need to make your own way from the hotel to Piazzale Roma. Your driver will meet you 3 hours before your flight departure time at the end of the white taxi line where the limo service area NCC is located, in the parking lot in front of Olimpia Hotel. Maximum waiting time: 30 minutes from the expected time of pick up. In case of flight cancellations, changes or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly: +39 3334112840. Hotel Villa Rosa is within 7 minutes walk of Venezia Santa Lucia Train Station, and a further 2 minutes from Piazzale Roma (for taxis and buses) just across the big bridge over the Canale Grande . Your leader or the hotel reception can point you in the right direction.

Alternate Finish point

For trips departing on the following dates, use this finish point.

06 Dec 2025 (ZLSW251206)

HOTEL CARLTON on the GRAND CANAL

Santa Croce 578 Venice

Venice

ITALY

Phone: 39 0412752200

Alternate Finish point description

Overlooking Venice's Grand Canal, Hotel Carlton offers a rooftop cocktail bar with terrace and spacious, Venetian-style rooms. Santa Lucia Train Station and the Piazzale Roma car park are both 5 minutes' walk away. This romantic hotel has an elegant interior design with Murano glass lamps and antique furniture. All air-conditioned rooms come with satellite TV, a minibar and a private bathroom with hairdryer. An American breakfast is available each morning. San Marco Square is a pleasant 25-minute walk away, also reachable by vaporetto water bus.

Alternate Finish point instructions

If you have pre-booked a departure transfer you will need to make your own way from the hotel to Piazzale Roma. Your driver will meet you 3 hours before your flight departure time at the end of the white taxi line where the limo service area NCC is located, in the parking lot in front of Olimpia Hotel. Maximum waiting time: 30 minutes from the expected time of pick up. In case of flight cancellations, changes or if you are not able to find the driver, please contact the transfer operator directly: +39 3334112840. Hotel Carlton on the Canal is within 8 minutes walk of Piazzale Roma (for taxis and buses) just across the big bridge over the Canale Grande . Your leader or the hotel reception can point you in the right direction.

Important information

1. This trip takes place during the colder winter months. While this allows you to experience the highlights of Italy without the crowds it is important to bear in mind that winters in Europe are usually quite cold and possibly rainy. Temperatures can drop to freezing or below, and snowfalls can happen at higher altitudes. If temperatures are above freezing there is a likelihood of rainy days during this time of year. You will need to be prepared to travel in varying temperatures and rain. 2. A single supplement is bookable for this trip. Availability is limited due to small property we use. Please speak to your booking agent for further information. 3. If you have prebooked departure transfer with us, please read Finishing Point Instructions in Essential Trip Information document for exact details. Your transfer may include a water taxi, or a car taxi, and you may be required to walk for a short distance from your hotel to the starting point of the transfer route.

Group leader

All Intrepid group trips in Europe are accompanied by one of our local European group leaders. ’Local’ in this context means a leader who is European or lives in Europe. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader takes care of logistics, will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. At Intrepid we also aim to support local guides in the individual cities or locations we travel to. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend an optional local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Safety

TRAVEL ADVISORIES & ALERTS We recommend that you check your government's foreign travel advisory for the latest information about the destination before you travel. You will also need to ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Links to travel advisories and any current travel alerts for our trips can be found here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts PERSONAL SAFETY Ensure you have a secure method of carrying your passport, phone, credit cards and cash while travelling such as a money belt. Leave all other high value items, including jewellery, at home Use safety deposit boxes at hotels to store your valuables when available and ensure your luggage is lockable. Be aware of the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft. Exercise caution when walking at night, don’t walk alone and stick to well-lit streets wherever possible. Be vigilant on public transport and look out for your fellow travellers. Take precautions such as carrying your bag in front of you and never leaving personal items unattended. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS Intrepid welcomes all LGBTQIA+ customers on our trips, however we operate in parts of the world that are less accepting. We support LGBTQIA+ customers to travel to these destinations and are committed to ensuring they face no discrimination on any part of the trip we control. We recommend you visit Equaldex (https://www.equaldex.com/) and your government's foreign travel advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers when choosing your trip.

https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

FIRE PRECAUTIONS: Please be aware that local laws governing tourism facilities in this region differ from those in your home country and not all the accommodation which we use has a fire exit, fire extinguishers or smoke alarms.

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

TRAFFIC AND DRIVING ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE ROAD: Depending on where you come from please note that drivers in this part of the world may drive on the opposite side of the road from what you are used to. Look both ways before crossing any road. Traffic can be a little more chaotic than you might be used to at home. Be aware!

SEAT BELTS: Please be aware that local laws governing transportation safety may differ from those in your home country and not all the transport which we use is able to provide seat belts.

VENICE GONDOLAS Please note, life jackets are not provided on Gondolas in Venice.

Visas

PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

Why we love it

See all the highlights of Italy without the crowds – this winter adventure celebrates the mild off-season of a tourist favourite, getting you closer to all the spots you want to tick off the list.

Wander around Rome's famous landmarks including the Colosseum (one of the Seven Wonders of the World), Vatican City, the Sistine Chapel, St Peter's Basilica and much more.

Get lost in the floating city of Venice. The maze of alleyways, canals and lagoon islands lead to over 130 churches, all with their own distinct character.

Learn to make the king of all comfort foods – pasta, of course – by hand in Bologna. Then, tuck into your creations for dinner with your group and friendly host.

Is this trip right for you

The primary means of transportation on this trip is by train. Trains are a fast way to cross long distances, allowing you to avoid traffic jams and arrive right into the city centre. They are comfortable and all have toilets but can sometimes be quite busy. You'll have to carry your own luggage on and off the train, so make sure it doesn’t exceed our weight and size recommendations. You can find this information in the 'What to Take' section of the trip notes. Often there are no lifts or escalators in train stations or in the hotel, so you will have to carry your bags up and down the stairs yourself. This trip is designed for off-season and takes place in the colder winter months of the year. It is essential that you are aware of the climate in Italy during this time. Please carefully consider the time of the year you wish to travel and your suitability to that season. Hotels in Europe often don't have double beds, but rather two single beds that can be pushed together/apart. Rooms can be rather small, especially compared to American or Australian standards. On this trip, you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15 kg (33 lb). Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter. You'll also need a day pack for daytrips.

Health

GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements.

Food and dietary requirements

While travelling with us you'll experience the vast array of wonderful food available in the world. Your group leader will be able to suggest restaurants to try during your trip. To give you maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat, generally not all meals are included in the trip price. This also gives you more budgeting flexibility. As a rule our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There's no obligation to do this though. BREAKFASTS There are some continental breakfasts included on this trip which may simply include bread/toast or pastries, butter, jam, coffee/tea/juice (or similar). VEGETARIANS Vegetarians might find the menu selection in Europe less varied than they would see at home. Vegetarianism is not as common in this region and generally the choices are basic, involving vegetables, soups, salads, bread, cheese, fruit, yoghurt, eggs etc. Vegans and those on gluten-free diets may find this region very challenging and may need to supplement meals with their own supplies from supermarkets and markets. Wherever possible we will cater for dietary needs for any included meals, but there may be times when those with special requirements may need to provide their own.

Money matters

SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. EUROPE The Euro (EUR) is the official currency in the following destinations: Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Kosovo, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, the Netherlands, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain. All other European countries still have their own national currencies. You can use your credit/debit card in ATMs, which are common throughout Europe. You can obtain EUR cash prior to arriving through normal outlets such as banks and currency exchange offices. BUDGET Please budget for additional meals and expenses while on your trip. We suggest EUR 280.00 for meals not included on this trip. Our suggestion is based on past traveller feedback but you may choose to spend more or less. TIPPING Tipping can be an appropriate way to recognise great service when travelling. While it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of the tourism industry across many of our destinations and is greatly appreciated by the people who take care of you during your travels. It is always best to avoid tipping with coins, very small denomination notes, or dirty and ripped notes, as this can be regarded as an insult rather than the goodwill gesture it is intended to be. We recommend budgeting approximately EUR 10-20 per person per week to tip local service providers for activities included in this trip, in local currencies. This doesn’t include a tip for your leader. YOUR GROUP LEADER OR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE Tipping your group leader or local representative is highly appreciated if you feel they’ve provided outstanding services throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline, the recommended amount is 4-7 USD or EUR per traveller per day (in a currency relevant to your destination). Of course, you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your group leader or local representative on your trip. CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs.

What to take

PACKING On this trip you must pack as lightly as possible because you will be expected to carry your own bag and although you won't be required to walk long distances with your luggage (max 30 minutes), we strongly recommend keeping the weight under 15kg / 33lb. Most travellers carry their luggage in a backpack, although an overnight bag with a shoulder strap would suffice if you travel lightly. Smaller bags or backpacks with wheels are convenient although we recommend your bag has carry straps to accommodate the cobbled streets, uneven surfaces, stairs and steps you are likely to encounter while carrying your luggage. You'll also need a day pack/bag to carry water and a camera etc for day trips. You can find Intrepid's Ultimate Packing List on our website. It should be used as a guide only and isn't intended to be a complete packing list.

Below is a link to our ultimate packing list, a guide to get you started: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

WATER BOTTLE Please bring your own water bottle to refill. Although it can be difficult to avoid bottled water when travelling, please use the water dispensers which are provided on some of our vehicles and at some of our accommodation. When unable to avoid bottled water, it is better to buy the largest available and distribute it into your smaller bottle for the day. Some travellers like to bring a bottle with its own filtration system or water purification tablets. If you are walking or trekking as part of your trip, you will need to carry at least 2 litres of water with you.

TRAVELLING ON LOCAL TRANSPORT It's important that your bags can be locked, as on local transport it may be necessary that your luggage gets stowed separately (and unattended). The smaller your bag the better for you and other passengers. To ensure maximum comfort, try to pack small and light.

WINTER This trip is operated in winter months, but please bear in mind the weather may vary. Remember that quality winter clothes and footwear as well as rain gear is essential for this trip - you’ll enjoy your holiday to the fullest if you’re prepared for all kinds of weather!

Climate and seasonal

WINTER The winter months in Europe are usually quite cold and possibly snowy. Temperatures can drop to freezing or below, and snowfalls are common, especially at higher altitudes. You will need to be prepared to travel in varying temperatures and snow. Extra layers, a warm jacket, hat, gloves and good footwear are a must.

A couple of rules

Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information.

Feedback

Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

Emergency contact

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with your group leader or local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your group leader or local representative may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask the group leader or local representative to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local office on the numbers below: Intrepid's Local Operator: +34 960 25 61 55

Responsible travel

Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel DRESS CODE In general, there are few dress restrictions in Europe. When visiting churches, monasteries or other religious sites modest dress is required - shorts or sleeveless tops may not be permitted, for both men and women.

The Intrepid Foundation

Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ This trip supports Cooperativa Coraggio, who implement agricultural projects on unused public land to create local jobs and produce organic food in communities in Italy. Donations help their regeneration project on 22 hectares of land at Borghetto San Carlo Estate, located on the outskirts of Rome. Intrepid will double your impact by dollar-matching post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation, visit https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/cooperativa-coraggio

Accommodation notes

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation. Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available. OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances. TWIN SHARE BASIS Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender as per the gender marker on each of their passports. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on different Intrepid trips than your own. CHECK-IN TIME Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination. PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (if available), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights. FACILITIES Your accommodation may not always have private en suite facilities or air-conditioning. European hotels generally don't provide kettles or fridges.

Transport notes

TRANSPORT IN EUROPE Half the fun of travel is the travelling itself, that's why we like to travel the local way – whether that means mingling with commuters on a local train, watching the scenery roll by from the window of a long distance bus, arriving on a high speed train in the city centre of your next destination, or navigating each city's public transport system. In Europe, you are guaranteed to travel by genuine local public transport wherever possible, which puts you right in the centre of the action.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

Your fellow travellers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway and has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if deemed necessary due to safety concerns. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk. MUSEUM VISITS & OPENING TIMES Many sites, attractions and museums are closed on Mondays (and sometimes Tuesdays). We recommend checking the opening times of anywhere you're interested to visit and making reservations where required/possible.

Accommodation

Hotel (7 nights)

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