Road to Rome - Start London, Small Group
Road to Rome - Start London, Small Group
$7699
Road to Rome - Start London, Small Group
13 Days Starting in London and ending in Rome
Visiting: London, Paris, Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Vaduz, Innsbruck, Dolomites, Veneto, Venice, Pisa, Florence, Assisi, Rome, Vatican
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SE924ZN20
Specialist Group:
Family/Kids
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 24
Age range:
5-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Tour Overview
Take the road to Rome from the iconic West End of London, through the cobbled streets of Paris and across the Alps of Innsbruck, to the Italian capital. Journey through the vineyards of Burgundy and slip across the Swiss border for an indulgent Dine Around meal in Lucerne. Enjoy a feast of local delicacies at a selection of hand-picked restaurants, set along the beautiful lakeside vistas. Voyage across the Dolomites to Venice and bear witness to the ancient skill of glassblowing. Practiced by precious few, this almost extinct artform is led by local craftsmen, intent on keeping the 15th-century tradition alive. In ancient Rome, enjoy fast-track access to the Vatican Museums and see Michelangelo’s masterpiece in the Sistine Chapel.
Top Rated Highlights
- London: Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
- Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.
- Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit.
- Lucerne: See the emotive Lion Monument, Jesuit Church and Chapel Bridge.
- Vaduz: Admire the Royal family's residence, Vaduz Castle, which overlooks the capital and is surrounded by year-round snow peaked mountains.
- Innsbruck: Nestled amidst majestic mountains, Innsbruck is a beautiful city offering a unique combination of nature, history, and culture. Stroll the streets of the picturesque Old Town, with your Travel Director, learn about its history and admire the Baroque and Gothic architecture.
- Venice: With your Travel Director cruise to St. Mark's Square and see the Doge's Palace, Bridge of Sighs and St. Mark's Basilica.
- Pisa: Your Local Expert will show you the baptistery bristling with marble spines, and the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the 11th-century cathedral - the famous Leaning Tower in the Square of Miracles.
- Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the area around Santa Croce Basilica, famous for the quality of its luxury goods.
- Assisi: With a Local Expert, find out why the Basilica of St. Francis is considered one of the crowning achievements of Europe.
- Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
Make Travel Matter
Stanserhorn: Journey to the top of Mount Stanserhorn on a panoramic, open-top cable car powered by solar energy, and enjoy spectacular views from the summit. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Your visit directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 7 & 15: Affordable and Clean Energy & Life on Land.
Venice: Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing, now practised by precious few masters. Watch artisans create delicate works of art using rare traditional practices. The workshop's master craftsmen teach visitors about the traditional craft of glassblowing and its history which dates back to the 15th century. Every visit helps to support the workshop and the survival of this traditional craft. This workshop directly supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities.
Authentic Dining
Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.
Paris: Join an avid local food lover on a walk through the streets of Paris. Visit a variety of patisseries, boulangeries and chocolatiers and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
Lucerne: Choose from a selection of restaurants on your Dine-Around Evening and hand-pick your preferred ambience, cuisine and drinks for an intimate culinary experience.
Veneto: Visit a local winery and delight in a tasting of their magnificent prosecco. Meet the vignerons and learn how this local drink has come to rival its well-known counterpart in France.
Tuscany: Visit Il Poggio and discover Tuscany's organic olive and grape farming traditions when you sit down to enjoy lunch complimented by stunning views.
Rome: Savor a four-course Celebration Dinner complete with wine, to the rich tremolo of some of Italy's best loved opera.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To London
Location: London
Accommodation: Park Plaza Victoria, London.
Accommodation Name: Thistle Marble Arch, London
Welcome to London. After checking into your hotel, the afternoon is free to enjoy a city that is famous for its pomp and pageantry. Perhaps relax with a walk along the Serpentine in Hyde Park or window shop in the elegant boutiques of Knightsbridge. Alternatively, you may want to stroll along the Thames to the iconic Tower Bridge and Tower of London.
Day 2: London To Paris By Eurostar
Location: London, Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Meet your Travel Director and transfer to London’s St. Pancras Station to board the high-speed Eurostar. Your comfortable rail journey takes you via the Channel Tunnel to Paris where you can spend the afternoon as you please.During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral and the imposing facades of the Louvre. Discover the banks of the River Seine with its many romantic bridges. See the obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe. In the evening, join your Travel Director for a fabulous dinner at a local brasserie.
Day 3: Paris, The 'City Of Light'
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Join an avid foodie, as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. With the rest of the afternoon free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city, perhaps join an Optional Experience to see the Paris cabaret?
Day 4: Burgundy And Lucerne
Location: Paris, Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through the rural French countryside of Burgundy, famous for its vineyards and wines, pass the Jura Mountains crossing into Switzerland. Arrive in glorious lakeside Lucerne. A range of enticing options are available for your Dine-Around Evening. Choose from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants.
Day 5: Lucerne & Mount Stanserhorn
Location: Lucerne, Stanserhorn, Lucerne
Accommodation: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.
Accommodation Name: Astoria, Lucerne
Meals Included: Breakfast
Explore Mount Stanserhorn on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, as an open-top cable car powered by solar panels take you up the summit. Walk along beautiful scenic pathways, keeping an eye out for marmots and other native animals, with the chance to hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Take in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. Upon return to Lucerne, see the town's proud Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff and dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Then, take some time to stroll across the covered Chapel Bridge to the baroque Jesuit Church. The rest of the day is at leisure to shop for delectable chocolate and glamorous Swiss watches in the traffic-free Old Town.
Day 6: Lucerne To Innsbruck Relaxed Start
Location: Lucerne, Vaduz, Innsbruck
Accommodation: AC Hotel Innsbruck.
Accommodation Name: AC, Innsbruck
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with a journey to the heart of the Alps passing through the Principality of Liechtenstein. See its tiny capital, Vaduz, with its castle located on a hillside overlooking the city. Drive into Austria and continue to mountain-ringed Innsbruck. Your Travel Director will show you the 14th century houses of the old town, the impressive Imperial Palace and the delightful Golden Roof.
Day 7: The Dolomites To Venice
Location: Innsbruck, Dolomites, Veneto, Venice
Accommodation: Hotel Continental Venice.
Accommodation Name: BW Premier Collection CHC Continental, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave Innsbruck to travel across the impressive Europa Bridge and through the Dolomites. Cross into Italy and stop at a local family winery in Veneto to discover the art of prosecco production. Savor a tasting of these luxurious sparkling wines and discover how to make the perfect Bellini. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. Long after the day-trippers have returned to their mainland hotels, enjoy the quiet atmosphere of the islands with dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 8: The Magic Of 'La Serenissima' Relaxed Start
Location: Venice
Accommodation: Hotel Continental Venice.
Accommodation Name: BW Premier Collection CHC Continental, Venice
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning, prepare to embrace this most romantic city. See the immense Campanile and Doge's Palace on St. Mark's Square, connected to the ancient prisons by the Bridge of Sighs. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional arts center. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps shop in the small arcades or why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?
Day 9: Tuscany, Pisa And Florence
Location: Venice, Pisa, Florence
Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.
Accommodation Name: Ambasciatori, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Take in beautiful views of the rolling Tuscan hills, as you enjoy lunch on the veranda when you visit Il Poggio for lunch. Taste the farm's wines and freshly produced olive oil. Enjoy an authentic Italian meal prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Explore the nearby town of Pisa with a Local Expert and see the baptistery with its intricate marble facade, the colonnaded bell tower lurching behind the cathedral and of course the famous Leaning Tower. Afterwards, travel to Florence.
Day 10: Florence Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Location: Florence
Accommodation: Hotel Adler Cavalieri, Florence.
Accommodation Name: Indigo, Florence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Walk with your Local Expert to the marble-clad cathedral and baptistery, where Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise have been recreated in all their glory. The next stop is Piazza della Signoria, still the political heart of Florence and an open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. Spend time gazing at statues such as Neptune and David along the front of the Palazzo Vecchio. The area around Santa Croce Basilica is famous for the quality of its luxury goods of gold and leather and there's free time to shop or continue exploring.
Day 11: Chianti Country To Assisi And Onto Rome
Location: Florence, Assisi, Rome
Accommodation: Kolbe Hotel Rome.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu GHR, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
2025 marks a Jubilee Year, a momentous Roman Catholic event celebrated every 25 years, turning Rome into a center of celebration. As festivities unfold, itineraries may be adjusted to ensure you make the most of your time as you visit the Eternal City. Journey through the vineyards of the Chianti region passing Lake Trasimeno, one of the Italian Peninsula’s largest lakes and site of a great battle in ancient times against Hannibal and his war elephants. Continue up the foothills of the Apennine Mountains to reach delightful Assisi, a stone-built town spilling over the steep hillside. With a Local Expert, visit the tomb of St. Francis and see the beautiful frescoes by Giotto in the great basilica, before continuing along the valley of the River Tiber towards the Eternal City of Rome. Enjoy a private visit to Farmacia of Santa Maria della Scala, the oldest pharmacy in Europe. Gain historic insights from a Carmelite friar as you admire the Farmacia and explore the adjoining 16th-century church. In the evening, why not throw your coin into the Trevi Fountain to ensure your return to the city?
Day 12: Papal And Imperial Rome
Location: Rome, Vatican, Rome
Accommodation: Kolbe Hotel Rome.
Accommodation Name: Kolbe, Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the Sistine Chapel to admire Michelangelo’s famous ceiling. Cross the River Tiber to see the Colosseum, still echoing with the ghostly cries of gladiatorial combat and see Circus Maximus, the ancient chariot-racing stadium. Gain historic insights from a Carmelite friar as you admire the Farmacia and explore the adjoining 16th-century church. Take in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming neighborhood as you indulge in dinner with wine at a local restaurant.
Day 13: Arrivederci Roma
Location: Rome
Meals Included: Breakfast
Bid farewell to the glories of Italy, savoring the memories of its enchanting cities, historic landmarks and stunning landscapes. Italy's unique allure will linger in your heart long after you leave.
What's Included
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Welcome Dinner in Paris
Enjoy a delightful dinner with wine at a local restaurant in the heart of Paris.
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Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne
Choose from a selection of restaurants for an intimate culinary experience in Lucerne.
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Organic Farm Visit in Tuscany
Learn about organic farming and enjoy a tasting of Tuscan specialties at Il Poggio.
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Prosecco Tasting in Veneto
Visit a local winery to taste their sparkling prosecco and learn how to make the perfect Bellini.
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Celebration Dinner in Rome
Savor a four-course dinner with wine, accompanied by opera in Rome.
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Fast Track Access to Vatican Museums
Gain special access to the Vatican Museums, including the Bramante Staircase and Sistine Chapel.
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Glassblowing Demonstration in Venice
Witness the ancient skill of glassblowing at a traditional arts center in Venice.
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Eurostar Train from London to Paris
Travel smoothly on the high-speed Eurostar train through the Channel Tunnel.
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Accommodations
Stay in carefully selected hotels throughout your journey.
What's Not Included
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Airfare
International airfare to and from the start and end points of the tour is not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included but is highly recommended.
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Optional Excursions
Costs for optional excursions available during the tour are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, minibar, and room service are not included.
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Meals not mentioned
Any meals not specifically mentioned in the inclusions are not covered.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for tour director, driver, and local guides are not included.
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Airport Transfers
Airport transfers outside of the designated tour dates are not included.
Mode of Transport
Relax on the smooth, high-speed Eurostar train as you journey from London to Europe via the revolutionary Channel Tunnel.
Accommodation
Stay at the following or similar: Park Plaza Victoria - London, Le Méridien Etoile - Paris, Hotel Astoria - Lucerne, AC Hotel Innsbruck - Innsbruck, BW Premier Collection CHC Continental - Venice, Hotel Indigo Florence - Florence, Kolbe Hotel Rome - Rome.
Dining Summary
- 12 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Dinner with Wine (DW)
- 1 Lunch with Wine (LW)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Rome: Enjoy an exclusive visit to the oldest pharmacy in Europe, Rome’s Antica Spezieria di Santa Maria della Scala, also known as the ‘Pharmacy of the Popes.’ Discover this hidden gem during a private audience with a friar of the Carmelite order, who reveals the historic curiosities of this 16th-century pharmacy.
Summary
- Visit the Basilica of St. Francis with a Local Expert in Assisi.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What countries does the Road to Rome tour visit?
The Road to Rome tour visits England, France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy, and the United Kingdom.
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What are some highlights of the Road to Rome tour?
Highlights of the tour include a Welcome Dinner in Paris, a Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne, an organic farm visit in Tuscany, a prosecco tasting in Veneto, a Celebration Dinner in Rome, Fast Track access to the Vatican Museums, a glassblowing demonstration in Venice, and scenic pathways in Stanserhorn.
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What type of transport is used on the Road to Rome tour?
The tour uses the high-speed Eurostar train for travel from London to Europe via the Channel Tunnel.
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What type of accommodation is provided on the Road to Rome tour?
Accommodation includes hotels such as Park Plaza Victoria in London, Le Méridien Etoile in Paris, Hotel Astoria in Lucerne, AC Hotel Innsbruck in Innsbruck, BW Premier Collection CHC Continental in Venice, Hotel Indigo Florence in Florence, and Kolbe Hotel Rome in Rome.
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What meals are included in the Road to Rome tour?
Included meals are a Welcome Dinner in Paris, a Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne, lunch at an organic farm in Tuscany, a prosecco tasting in Veneto, and a Celebration Dinner in Rome.
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What are the inclusions of the Road to Rome tour?
Inclusions are a Welcome Dinner in Paris, Dine-Around Evening in Lucerne, organic farm visit in Tuscany, prosecco tasting in Veneto, Celebration Dinner in Rome, Fast Track Access to Vatican Museums, glassblowing demonstration in Venice, Eurostar Train from London to Paris, and accommodations throughout the journey.
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What is the pick-up time for the Road to Rome tour?
The pick-up time for the tour is 07:30.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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