The Essence of Italy 2026

Flight information TBA. 

All seats included in the Full Package group booking are in Economy Class

Please contact Overton Travel at the time of booking if you would like to upgrade your seat.

Upgrades to Business Class seats can be done, based on availability at the time of booking.

Specific seats on the flight cannot be guaranteed with group bookings

Seats are assigned by the airlines. If you would like a specific seat, contact the airline directly after you receive your travel document to request a specific seat.

Also note, that some airlines do not assign seats in advance for group bookings, and seats will be assigned at the airport upon check-in.

If you need a specific seat, you should not purchase your flights as part of the group booking. You should purchase your flights separately as an individual ticket.

Upon arrival at Venice Airport, proceed through immigration and customs before meeting our local representative. You'll then be escorted to the pier for a private boat transfer into the heart of Venice. After a brief walk, check in to your hotel.

This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a charming local restaurant, marking the beginning of your Italian adventure.

Hotel: Hotel Giorgione Venice or similar
Meals: Welcome Dinner

This morning, enjoy a private walking tour of Venice’s historic center. Admire the golden mosaics of St. Mark’s Basilica and explore the Doge’s Palace, once the seat of Venetian political power. View the Golden Staircase, cross the iconic Bridge of Sighs, and step into the old prison to glimpse life in the Republic’s past. Stroll through charming cobblestone streets and canals, soaking in medieval architecture and browsing local artisan shops.

In the afternoon, take a boat to Murano Island to visit a renowned glass-blowing workshop. Watch artisans at work and learn about the centuries-old tradition that made Murano glass famous around the world, which has developed over centuries and has roots in ancient Rome and Byzantium.

Hotel: Hotel Giorgione Venice or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After an early breakfast, board a private boat taxi to meet your motor coach and journey to Modena, nestled in Northern Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region—celebrated as the culinary heart of the country. Visit a traditional acetaia to sample aged balsamic vinegar, renowned for its rich, sweet complexity developed over years in wooden barrels. This prized condiment enhances everything from cheeses and meats to desserts.

Then, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local osteria, savoring regional specialties in a warm, rustic setting.

Later this afternoon, continue to Florence. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy time to relax or begin exploring this captivating Renaissance city at your own pace.

Hotel: FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, embark on a private walking tour of Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. Begin with a stunning panoramic view from Michelangelo Square, then visit the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s iconic statue of David.

Continue through the vibrant Signoria Square, home to statues by Cellini, Giambologna, and Ammannati, before arriving at the famous Ponte Vecchio, lined with traditional artisan shops.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Florence at your own pace or opt for a guided visit to the renowned Uffizi Gallery.

Hotel: FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, head to a charming farmhouse nestled in the Tuscan vineyards. Take a short tour of the property before rolling up your sleeves for a fun, hands-on pasta-making class! Learn to make ravioli, dumplings, and noodles using fresh, local ingredients and time-honored Italian techniques. Then sit down to enjoy your creations over lunch, paired with tastings of wine, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.

In the afternoon, soak in the scenic drive through the Chianti hills as you make your way to Siena, a stunning medieval town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. On a private walking tour, explore the narrow streets, visit the famous Piazza del Campo, and admire the beautiful Siena Cathedral.

Wrap up your day relaxing in the peaceful Tuscan countryside, surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and olive groves—a perfect picture of Italy’s timeless beauty.

Hotel: Palazzo Leopoldo or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is yours to enjoy Tuscany at your own pace. Wander or bike through charming hilltop villages, sip local wines, or simply relax and take in the stunning views from your boutique hotel.

Want a little direction? Join a friendly local guide for a morning orientation walk with tips on the best restaurants, shops, and walking routes to help you make the most of your free time. Explore the nearby village, visit a castle, relax at a wine bar, or stroll to a local winery. The hotel also offers unique experiences like cooking classes, tastings, and Vespa, motorcycle, or horseback excursions.

For something truly special, take to the skies on an optional hot air balloon ride over Tuscany—Prosecco breakfast included!

Hotel: Palazzo Leopoldo or similar
Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, set off for the stunning medieval town of Montepulciano, famous for its elegant Renaissance architecture, historic churches, and sweeping views of the Tuscan countryside. Perched on a limestone ridge, this charming hilltop town is rich in history and renowned for its delicious food and world-class wines—an ideal snapshot of Tuscany at its best.

Next, stop at a local pecorino cheese producer to learn how this beloved cheese is made. You'll tour the facility and enjoy a tasting of regional cheeses, salami, and fresh salad, all paired with a glass of local wine.

Later in the afternoon, continue your scenic drive south toward Rome.

Hotel: Monti Palace Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast

This morning, step back in time as you explore the wonders of Ancient Rome, beginning with the Roman Forum. Visit the legendary hill where Rome is said to have been founded in the 7th century B.C.E. by Romulus and Remus. Then, marvel at the iconic Colosseum, the grand amphitheater once used for thrilling gladiator battles and wild animal spectacles.

Stroll along the ancient Via Sacra, walking in the footsteps of emperors and citizens alike. Along the way, see the Temples of Vesta, Antoninus and Faustina, and the remains of the Basilicas Julia and Aemilia, all echoing the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Eternal City at your own pace.

Hotel: Monti Palace Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast

This morning, set out for Vatican City for a guided tour of its most iconic treasures. Begin at the Vatican Museums, home to an extraordinary collection of Roman statues once gathered by the Popes. Discover renowned works such as the Apollo Belvedere, Laocoön and His Sons, the Torso, and busts of Emperor Hadrian and his companion Antinous.

Continue through the ornate Gallery of the Candelabra and the intricate Gallery of Tapestries before reaching the awe-inspiring Sistine Chapel. Here, take in Michelangelo’s legendary Creation of Adam and The Last Judgment, along with frescoes depicting the lives of Moses and Jesus. The chapel also serves as the sacred site of papal elections.

Next, visit St. Peter’s Basilica, where you’ll see Michelangelo’s La Pietà, a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture. Conclude your tour in grand St. Peter’s Square, designed by Bernini and surrounded by towering columns, statues of saints, and rich symbolism.

Enjoy your final afternoon in Rome at your leisure. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a memorable farewell dinner to celebrate your journey.

Hotel: Monti Palace Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Farewell Dinner

Full Package Price

• $6,899 per person (double occupancy)
• $8,149 per person (single occupancy)

Land Only Package 
(international flights and transfers NOT included)

• $6,199 per person (double occupancy)
• $7,449 per person (single occupancy)

Note: In the Land Only package you will make your own flight arrangements and transportation to/from the hotel upon arrival and departure. Overton Travel can assist you with these arrangements upon request.

Payment Schedule

• Deposit: Due at time of booking: $500 (non-refundable)    
• Installment #1: July 31, 2025    
• Installment #2: August 31, 2025   
• Installment #3: September 30, 2025
• Installment #4: Final Payment: October 31, 2025  Remaining Balance

Cancellation Policy

• The deposit is non-refundable and non-transferrable
• Cancellations must be submitted in writing to [email protected]
  • Cancellations submitted on or before September 30, 2025 will be refunded the amount paid less the deposit and a $150 administration fee.
  • Cancellations submitted after September 30, 2025 will forfeit all payments made and no refund will be provided.
  • Terms and Conditions

Flight Information TBA.

All seats included in the Full Package group booking are in Economy Class

Please contact Overton Travel at the time of booking if you would like to upgrade your seat.

Upgrades to Business Class seats can be done, based on availability at the time of booking.

Specific seats on the flight cannot be guaranteed with group bookings

Seats are assigned by the airlines. If you would like a specific seat, contact the airline directly after you receive your travel document to request a specific seat.

Also note, that some airlines do not assign seats in advance for group bookings, and seats will be assigned at the airport upon check-in.

If you need a specific seat, you should not purchase your flights as part of the group booking. You should purchase your flights separately as an individual ticket.

• We encourage all travelers to purchase a travel protection plan at the time of initial trip deposit. 
• Overton Travel uses Travel Safe. Click here to review and purchase a travel protection plan from them: Travel Protection.
• You can purchase travel protection through the supplier used by Overton Travel or any other supplier you choose.

All of the accommodations have been selected with your comfort and safety in mind. Click the link to view the beautiful properties.

Venice: Hotel Palazzo San Lorenzo or similar

Palazzo San Lorenzo is a 4-star hotel with a modern design and elegant classical-contemporary style, with attention to detail and every comfort to enable guests to enjoy an unforgettable stay. Recognisable from the shaped balconies in Istrian stone and from the high relief of the Saint of the same name placed on the front of the building, Palazzo San Lorenzo is located overlooking Rio dell'Osmarin, in the historic centre of Venice.
 

Florence: FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo or similar

The FH55 Grand Hotel Mediterraneo is a 4-star hotel situated along the Arno River in Florence, Italy. It offers 327 rooms, including suites and family accommodations, featuring modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, and en-suite bathrooms with marble finishes. Some rooms provide panoramic views of the river and surrounding hills.

Radda, Chianti: Hotel Palazzo Leopoldo or similar

Palazzo Leopoldo is a 4-star hotel in Chianti that combines the undeniable beauty of the palace with all the services and comforts expected of a 4-star category. The hotel features a wellness center  and a typical restaurant, the "Perla del Palazzo".

Rome: Hotel Kolbe or similar

In the Kolbe Hotel Rome, the Ancient and Modern blend to create a new form of hospitality. The building's fascinating history paired with Rome's timeless beauty creates a breath taking atmosphere and an unforgettable experience.

Surrounded by the magnificence of ancient Rome, only a few steps from the Circus Maximus and the Imperial Roman Forum, the building is located in an evocative and prestigious area right in the heart of the city.