Rome and Sorrento

Arrive in Rome and check in to your hotel before exploring the ‘Eternal City’ for the afternoon. Enjoy a snack from San Crispino Gelateria, which is said to serve the best gelato in Rome, as you admire the iconic Trevi Fountain. Follow this with a stroll up the Spanish Steps and admire the city lights as they turn on, one by one. In the evening, try a delicious Roman speciality, including pizza, pasta and delicious antipasti platters.

Spend the morning in the Vatican City. This independent state is the smallest country in the world, and is home to the Pope, as well as being at the heart of the Catholic religion. Visit St Peter’s Basilica, which is one of the world’s largest churches and contains ornate details and paintings. Next are the Vatican Museums, located within the Palace which has around 1,400 rooms, with Raphaelite paintings and a Hall of Maps on display. Finish your visit at the Sistine Chapel, the Pope’s private chapel, which is home to Michelangelo's famous frescoes.

In the evening, cross the river to Piazza Navona where you’ll find an excellent selection of restaurants for dinner.

Spend the day visiting Rome’s top attractions – the Roman Colosseum and the Roman Forum. Immerse yourselves in thousands of years of history as you learn about the largest amphitheatre and its history as the site of gladiator battles. Sit in the stands and wander through the underground passages as you marvel at the size of the building. Next is the Roman Forum, which was at the heart of politics, religion and business in ancient times and houses fascinating stories. End the day taking in spectacular views from Palatine Hill, where you’ll find interesting ruins.

Today you leave Rome for the beautiful coastline of Sorrento. Take the train from Roma Termini, which is the city’s main station, to Napoli Centrale Station, which takes just over an hour. A private transfer will then take you to Sorrento, which also takes about an hour. Check in to your hotel before wandering through the beautiful public gardens, Villa Comunale. Watch the sun set over the glittering waters of the Bay of Naples and light the rugged clifftops behind you. In the evening, enjoy a delicious al fresco dinner in Piazza Tasso.

We recommend a trip to one of the most sacred and fascinating Roman sights – Pompeii. Well preserved by the ash and lava which destroyed the town in 79AD at the eruption of Mount Vesuvius, this is the ideal place for history lovers. Pre-book the Pompeii and Vesuvius excursion and listen to anecdotes about the town’s history, as well as learning about its careful preservation after discovery in 1748. Later, climb Mount Vesuvius and take in the mesmerising views of the ruins below.

Spend long lazy days exploring everything the picturesque town of Sorrento has to offer. Dine in al fresco cafés and restaurants, enjoy the delicious Italian coffees or make the most of freshly caught seafood options. Marina Grande harbour is home to pretty fishing boats which gently bob in the bay. Head further afield and explore other towns along the Amalfi Coast, including chic Positano, laid back Maiori and the garden town of Ravello. You can also take boat trips to the volcanic island of Ischia and the shopper’s paradise of Capri island.

Today, wave goodbye to Sorrento, as you head to Naples airport (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes) and fly back to the UK.